82 FR 17770 - Airworthiness Directives; Airbus Airplanes

DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION
Federal Aviation Administration

Federal Register Volume 82, Issue 70 (April 13, 2017)

Page Range		17770-17773
FR Document		2017-07441
We propose to supersede Airworthiness Directive (AD) 2014-26- 10, for all Airbus Model A318, A319, A320, and A321 series airplanes. AD 2014-26-10 currently requires revising the maintenance or inspection program to incorporate maintenance requirements and airworthiness limitations. Since we issued AD 2014-26-10, we have determined that more restrictive maintenance instructions and airworthiness limitations are necessary. This proposed AD would require revising the maintenance or inspection program, as applicable, to incorporate new or revised airworthiness limitation requirements. This proposed AD also removes airplanes from the applicability. We are proposing this AD to address the unsafe condition on these products.
Federal Register, Volume 82 Issue 70 (Thursday, April 13, 2017)
[Federal Register Volume 82, Number 70 (Thursday, April 13, 2017)]
[Proposed Rules]
[Pages 17770-17773]
From the Federal Register Online  [www.thefederalregister.org]
[FR Doc No: 2017-07441]


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DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION

Federal Aviation Administration

14 CFR Part 39

[Docket No. FAA-2017-0248; Directorate Identifier 2016-NM-088-AD]
RIN 2120-AA64


Airworthiness Directives; Airbus Airplanes

AGENCY: Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), DOT.

ACTION: Notice of proposed rulemaking (NPRM).

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SUMMARY: We propose to supersede Airworthiness Directive (AD) 2014-26-
10, for all Airbus Model A318, A319, A320, and A321 series airplanes. 
AD 2014-26-10 currently requires revising the maintenance or inspection 
program to incorporate maintenance requirements and airworthiness 
limitations. Since we issued AD 2014-26-10, we have determined that 
more restrictive maintenance instructions and airworthiness limitations 
are necessary. This proposed AD would require revising the maintenance 
or inspection program, as applicable, to incorporate new or revised 
airworthiness limitation requirements. This proposed AD also removes 
airplanes from the applicability. We are proposing this AD to address 
the unsafe condition on these products.

DATES: We must receive comments on this proposed AD by May 30, 2017.

ADDRESSES: You may send comments, using the procedures found in 14 CFR 
11.43 and 11.45, by any of the following methods:
     Federal eRulemaking Portal: Go to http://www.regulations.gov. Follow the instructions for submitting comments.
     Fax: 202-493-2251.
     Mail: U.S. Department of Transportation, Docket 
Operations, M-30, West Building Ground Floor, Room W12-140, 1200 New 
Jersey Avenue SE., Washington, DC 20590.
     Hand Delivery: Deliver to Mail address above between 9 
a.m. and 5 p.m., Monday through Friday, except Federal holidays.
    For service information identified in this NPRM, contact Airbus, 
Airworthiness Office--EIAS, 1 Rond Point Maurice Bellonte, 31707 
Blagnac Cedex, France; telephone: +33 5 61 93 36 96; fax: +33 5 61 93 
44 51; email: [email protected]; Internet: http://www.airbus.com. You may view this referenced service information at the 
FAA, Transport Airplane Directorate, 1601 Lind Avenue SW., Renton, WA. 
For information on the availability of this material at the FAA, call 
425-227-1221.

Examining the AD Docket

    You may examine the AD docket on the Internet at http://www.regulations.gov by searching for and locating Docket No. FAA-2017-
0248; or in person at the Docket Management Facility between 9 a.m. and 
5 p.m., Monday through Friday, except Federal holidays. The AD docket 
contains this proposed AD, the regulatory evaluation, any comments 
received, and other information. The street address for the Docket 
Operations office (telephone: 800-647-5527) is in the ADDRESSES 
section. Comments will be available in the AD docket shortly after 
receipt.

FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Sanjay Ralhan, Aerospace Engineer, 
International Branch, ANM-116, Transport Airplane Directorate, FAA, 
1601 Lind Avenue SW., Renton, WA 98057-3356; telephone: 425-227-1405; 
fax: 425-227-1149.

SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: 

Comments Invited

    We invite you to send any written relevant data, views, or 
arguments about this proposed AD. Send your comments to an address 
listed under the ADDRESSES section. Include ``Docket No. FAA-2017-0248; 
Directorate Identifier 2016-NM-088-AD'' at the beginning of your 
comments. We specifically invite comments on the overall regulatory, 
economic, environmental, and energy aspects of this proposed AD. We 
will consider all comments received by the closing date and may amend 
this proposed AD based on those comments.
    We will post all comments we receive, without change, to http://www.regulations.gov, including any personal information you provide. We 
will also post a report summarizing each substantive verbal contact we 
receive about this proposed AD.

Discussion

    On December 19, 2014, we issued AD 2014-26-10, Amendment 39-18061 
(80 FR 2813, January 21, 2015) (``AD 2014-26-10''), for all Airbus 
Model A318, A319, A320, and A321 series airplanes. AD 2014-26-10 was 
prompted by a determination that the maintenance actions for airplane 
systems susceptible to aging must be mandated. AD 2014-26-10 requires 
revising the maintenance or inspection program to incorporate 
maintenance requirements and airworthiness limitations. We issued AD 
2014-26-10 to mitigate the risks associated with aging effects of 
airplane systems. Such aging effects could change the characteristics 
of the systems leading to an increased potential for failure, which 
could result in failure of certain life-limited parts, and reduced 
structural integrity or reduced controllability of the airplane.
    Since we issued AD 2014-26-10, we have determined that more 
restrictive maintenance instructions and airworthiness limitations are 
necessary.
    The European Aviation Safety Agency (EASA), which is the Technical 
Agent for the Member States of the European Union, has issued EASA AD 
2016-0093, dated May 13, 2016 (referred to after this as the Mandatory 
Continuing Airworthiness Information, or ``the

[[Page 17771]]

MCAI''), to correct an unsafe condition for all Airbus Model A318, 
A319, A320, and A321 series airplanes. The MCAI states:

    The airworthiness limitations for Airbus A320 family aeroplanes 
are currently defined and published in Airbus A318/A319/A320/A321 
Airworthiness Limitations Section (ALS) documents. The airworthiness 
limitations applicable to the System Equipment Maintenance 
Requirements, which are approved by [European Aviation Safety 
Agency] EASA, are specified in ALS Part 4.
    The instructions contained in the ALS Part 4 have been 
identified as mandatory actions for continued airworthiness. Failure 
to comply with these instructions could result in an unsafe 
condition.
    Previously, EASA issued AD 2013-0146 [which corresponds to FAA 
AD 2014-26-10] to require accomplishment of all maintenance actions 
as described in ALS Part 4 at Revision 01. The new ALS Part 4 
Revision 03 (hereafter referred to as `the ALS' in this AD) includes 
new and/or more restrictive requirements. ALS Part 4 Revision 03, 
issue 02, has been released to include editorial changes.
    For the reason described above, this [EASA] AD retains the 
requirements of EASA AD 2013-0146, which is superseded, and requires 
accomplishment of the actions specified in the ALS.

    You may examine the MCAI in the AD docket on the Internet at http://www.regulations.gov by searching for and locating Docket No. FAA-2017-
0248.

Related Service Information Under 1 CFR Part 51

    Airbus has issued Airbus A318/A319/A320/A321 ALS Part 4, ``System 
Equipment Maintenance Requirements (SEMR)'' Revision 03 at Issue 02, 
dated January 22, 2016. The service information describes preventative 
maintenance requirements and includes updated inspections and intervals 
to be incorporated into the maintenance or inspection program. This 
service information is reasonably available because the interested 
parties have access to it through their normal course of business or by 
the means identified in the ADDRESSES.

FAA's Determination and Requirements of This Proposed AD

    This product has been approved by the aviation authority of another 
country, and is approved for operation in the United States. Pursuant 
to our bilateral agreement with the State of Design Authority, we have 
been notified of the unsafe condition described in the MCAI and service 
information referenced above. We are proposing this AD because we 
evaluated all pertinent information and determined an unsafe condition 
exists and is likely to exist or develop on other products of the same 
type design.
    This proposed AD would require revisions to certain operator 
maintenance documents to include new actions (e.g., inspections). 
Compliance with these actions is required by 14 CFR 91.403(c). For 
airplanes that have been previously modified, altered, or repaired in 
the areas addressed by this proposed AD, the operator may not be able 
to accomplish the actions described in the revisions. In this 
situation, to comply with 14 CFR 91.403(c), the operator must request 
approval for an alternative method of compliance according to paragraph 
(k)(1) of this proposed AD. The request should include a description of 
changes to the required inspections that will ensure the continued 
operational safety of the airplane.

Differences Between This Proposed AD and the MCAI or Service 
Information

    The EASA AD specifies that if there are findings from the ALS 
inspection tasks, then corrective action must be accomplished in 
accordance with Airbus maintenance documentation. However, this 
proposed AD does not include that requirement because operators of 
U.S.-registered airplanes are required by general airworthiness and 
operational regulations to use FAA-acceptable methods when performing 
maintenance. We consider those methods to be adequate to address any 
corrective actions necessitated by the findings of ALS inspections 
required by this proposed AD.
    Although the EASA AD recommends accomplishing the tasks specified 
in the ALS after the effective date of the EASA AD, and revising the 
maintenance program within 12 months after the effective date of the 
EASA AD, this proposed AD would only require revising the maintenance 
or inspection program within 30 days after the effective date of this 
AD, which correlates with the compliance time required by AD 2014-26-
10. In developing an appropriate compliance time for this proposed AD, 
we considered the degree of urgency associated with the subject unsafe 
condition, the average utilization of the affected fleet, and the time 
necessary to perform the revision (1 work-hour). In light of these 
factors, we find that a 30-day compliance time represents an 
appropriate interval of time for affected airplanes to continue to 
operate without compromising safety.
    These differences have been coordinated with the EASA and Airbus.

Airworthiness Limitations Based on Type Design

    The FAA recently became aware of an issue related to the 
applicability of ADs that require incorporation of an ALS revision into 
an operator's maintenance or inspection program.
    Typically, when these types of ADs are issued by civil aviation 
authorities of other countries, they apply to all airplanes covered 
under an identified type certificate (TC). The corresponding FAA AD 
typically retains applicability to all of those airplanes.
    In addition, U.S. operators must operate their airplanes in an 
airworthy condition, in accordance with 14 CFR 91.7(a). Included in 
this obligation is the requirement to perform any maintenance or 
inspections specified in the ALS, and in accordance with the ALS as 
specified in 14 CFR 43.16 and 14 CFR 91.403(c), unless an alternative 
has been approved by the FAA.
    When a type certificate is issued for a type design, the specific 
ALS, including revisions, is a part of that type design, as specified 
in 14 CFR 21.31(c).
    The sum effect of these operational and maintenance requirements is 
an obligation to comply with the ALS defined in the type design 
referenced in the manufacturer's conformity statement. This obligation 
may introduce a conflict with an AD that requires a specific ALS 
revision if new airplanes are delivered with a later revision as part 
of their type design.
    To address this conflict, the FAA has approved alternative methods 
of compliance (AMOCs) that allow operators to incorporate the most 
recent ALS revision into their maintenance/inspection programs, in lieu 
of the ALS revision required by the AD. This eliminates the conflict 
and enables the operator to comply with both the AD and the type 
design.
    However, compliance with AMOCs is normally optional, and we 
recently became aware that some operators choose to retain the AD-
mandated ALS revision in their fleet-wide maintenance/inspection 
programs, including those for new airplanes delivered with later ALS 
revisions, to help standardize the maintenance of the fleet. To ensure 
that operators comply with the applicable ALS revision for newly 
delivered airplanes containing a later revision than that specified in 
an AD, we plan to limit the applicability of ADs that mandate ALS 
revisions to those airplanes that are subject to an earlier revision of 
the ALS, either as part of the type design or as mandated by an earlier 
AD.
    This proposed AD therefore would apply to the airplanes identified 
in

[[Page 17772]]

paragraph (c) of this AD with an original certificate of airworthiness 
or original export certificate of airworthiness that was issued on or 
before the date of approval of the ALS revision identified in this 
proposed AD. Operators of airplanes with an original certificate of 
airworthiness or original export certificate of airworthiness issued 
after that date must comply with the airworthiness limitations 
specified as part of the approved type design and referenced on the 
type certificate data sheet.

Costs of Compliance

    We estimate that this proposed AD affects 1,032 airplanes of U.S. 
registry.
    The actions required by AD 2014-26-10, and retained in this 
proposed AD take about 1 work-hour per product, at an average labor 
rate of $85 per work-hour. Based on these figures, the estimated cost 
of the actions that are required by AD 2014-26-10 is $85 per product.
    We also estimate that it would take about 1 work-hour per product 
to comply with the basic requirements of this proposed AD. The average 
labor rate is $85 per work-hour. Based on these figures, we estimate 
the cost of this proposed AD on U.S. operators to be $87,720, or $85 
per product.

Authority for This Rulemaking

    Title 49 of the United States Code specifies the FAA's authority to 
issue rules on aviation safety. Subtitle I, section 106, describes the 
authority of the FAA Administrator. ``Subtitle VII: Aviation 
Programs,'' describes in more detail the scope of the Agency's 
authority.
    We are issuing this rulemaking under the authority described in 
``Subtitle VII, Part A, Subpart III, Section 44701: General 
requirements.'' Under that section, Congress charges the FAA with 
promoting safe flight of civil aircraft in air commerce by prescribing 
regulations for practices, methods, and procedures the Administrator 
finds necessary for safety in air commerce. This regulation is within 
the scope of that authority because it addresses an unsafe condition 
that is likely to exist or develop on products identified in this 
rulemaking action.

Regulatory Findings

    We determined that this proposed AD would not have federalism 
implications under Executive Order 13132. This proposed AD would not 
have a substantial direct effect on the States, on the relationship 
between the national Government and the States, or on the distribution 
of power and responsibilities among the various levels of government.
    For the reasons discussed above, I certify this proposed 
regulation:
    1. Is not a ``significant regulatory action'' under Executive Order 
12866;
    2. Is not a ``significant rule'' under the DOT Regulatory Policies 
and Procedures (44 FR 11034, February 26, 1979);
    3. Will not affect intrastate aviation in Alaska; and
    4. Will not have a significant economic impact, positive or 
negative, on a substantial number of small entities under the criteria 
of the Regulatory Flexibility Act.

List of Subjects in 14 CFR Part 39

    Air transportation, Aircraft, Aviation safety, Incorporation by 
reference, Safety.

The Proposed Amendment

    Accordingly, under the authority delegated to me by the 
Administrator, the FAA proposes to amend 14 CFR part 39 as follows:

PART 39--AIRWORTHINESS DIRECTIVES

0
1. The authority citation for part 39 continues to read as follows:

    Authority: 49 U.S.C. 106(g), 40113, 44701.


Sec.  39.13  [Amended]

0
2. The FAA amends Sec.  39.13 by removing Airworthiness Directive (AD) 
2014-26-10, Amendment 39-18061 (80 FR 2813, January 21, 2015), and 
adding the following new AD:

Airbus: Docket No. FAA-2017-0248; Directorate Identifier 2016-NM-
088-AD.

(a) Comments Due Date

    We must receive comments by May 30, 2017.

(b) Affected ADs

    This AD replaces AD 2014-26-10, Amendment 39-18061 (80 FR 2813, 
January 21, 2015) (``AD 2014-26-10'').

(c) Applicability

    This AD applies to the Airbus airplanes identified in paragraphs 
(c)(1), (c)(2), (c)(3), and (c)(4) of this AD; certificated in any 
category; with an original certificate of airworthiness or original 
export certificate of airworthiness issued on or before December 21, 
2015.
    (1) Model A318-111, -112, -121, and -122 airplanes.
    (2) Model A319-111, -112, -113, -114, -115, -131, -132, and -133 
airplanes.
    (3) Model A320--211, -212, -214, -231, -232, and -233 airplanes.
    (4) Model A321-111, -112, -131, -211, -212, -213, -231, and -232 
airplanes.

(d) Subject

    Air Transport Association (ATA) of America Code 05, Time Limits/
Maintenance Checks.

(e) Reason

    This AD was prompted by a determination that more restrictive 
maintenance instructions and airworthiness limitations are 
necessary. We are issuing this AD to mitigate the risks associated 
with aging effects of airplane systems. Such aging effects could 
change the characteristics of the systems leading to an increased 
potential for failure, which could result in failure of certain 
life-limited parts, and reduced structural integrity or reduced 
controllability of the airplane.

(f) Compliance

    Comply with this AD within the compliance times specified, 
unless already done.

(g) Retained Requirement: Maintenance or Inspection Program Revision, 
With No Changes

    This paragraph restates the requirements of paragraph (g) of AD 
2014-26-10, with no changes. Within 30 days after February 25, 2015 
(the effective date of AD 2014-26-10): Revise the maintenance or 
inspection program, as applicable, to incorporate Airbus A318/A319/
A320/A321 Airworthiness Limitations Section, ALS Part 4, ``Aging 
Systems Maintenance,'' Revision 01, dated June 15, 2012. The initial 
compliance time for doing the actions is at the applicable time 
specified in Airbus A318/A319/A320/A321 Airworthiness Limitations 
Section, ALS Part 4, ``Aging Systems Maintenance,'' Revision 01, 
dated June 15, 2012; or within 2 weeks after revising the 
maintenance or inspection program; whichever occurs later. 
Accomplishing the actions specified in paragraph (i) of this AD 
terminates the requirements of this paragraph.

(h) Retained Requirement: No Alternative Actions or Intervals, With New 
Paragraph Reference

    This paragraph restates the requirements of paragraph (h) of AD 
2014-26-10, with new paragraph reference. Except as required by 
paragraph (i) of this AD, after accomplishment of the revision 
required by paragraph (g) of this AD, no alternative actions (e.g., 
inspections) or intervals may be used unless the actions or 
intervals are approved as an alternative method of compliance (AMOC) 
in accordance with the procedures specified in paragraph (k)(1) of 
this AD.

(i) New Requirement: Maintenance or Inspection Program Revision

    Within 30 days after the effective date of this AD: Revise the 
maintenance or inspection program, as applicable, to incorporate 
Airbus A318/A319/A320/A321 Airworthiness Limitations Section (ALS) 
Part 4, ``System Equipment Maintenance Requirements (SEMR)'' 
Revision 03 at Issue 02, dated January 22, 2016. The initial 
compliance time for doing the actions is at the applicable time 
specified in Airbus A318/

[[Page 17773]]

A319/A320/A321 Airworthiness Limitations Section, ALS Part 4, 
``System Equipment Maintenance Requirements (SEMR)'' Revision 03 at 
Issue 02, dated January 22, 2016; or within 2 weeks after revising 
the maintenance or inspection program; whichever occurs later. 
Accomplishing the actions specified in this paragraph terminates the 
requirements of paragraph (g) of this AD.

(j) New Provision: No Alternative Actions or Intervals

    After the action required by paragraph (i) of this AD has been 
done, no alternative actions (e.g., inspections) or intervals may be 
used unless the actions or intervals are approved as an AMOC in 
accordance with the procedures specified in paragraph (k)(1) of this 
AD.

(k) Other FAA AD Provisions

    The following provisions also apply to this AD:
    (1) Alternative Methods of Compliance (AMOCs): The Manager, 
International Branch, ANM-116, Transport Airplane Directorate, FAA, 
has the authority to approve AMOCs for this AD, if requested using 
the procedures found in 14 CFR 39.19. In accordance with 14 CFR 
39.19, send your request to your principal inspector or local Flight 
Standards District Office, as appropriate. If sending information 
directly to the International Branch, send it to ATTN: Sanjay 
Ralhan, Aerospace Engineer, International Branch, ANM-116, Transport 
Airplane Directorate, FAA, 1601 Lind Avenue SW., Renton, WA 98057-
3356; telephone: 425-227-1405; fax: 425-227-1149. Information may be 
emailed to: [email protected].
    (i) Before using any approved AMOC, notify your appropriate 
principal inspector, or lacking a principal inspector, the manager 
of the local flight standards district office/certificate holding 
district office.
    (ii) AMOCs approved previously for AD 2014-26-10 are approved as 
AMOCs for the corresponding provisions of paragraph (g) of this AD.
    (2) Contacting the Manufacturer: As of the effective date of 
this AD, for any requirement in this AD to obtain corrective actions 
from a manufacturer, the action must be accomplished using a method 
approved by the Manager, International Branch, ANM-116, Transport 
Airplane Directorate, FAA; or the European Aviation Safety Agency 
(EASA); or EASA Design Organization Approval (DOA). If approved by 
the DOA, the approval must include the DOA-authorized signature.

(l) Related Information

    (1) Refer to Mandatory Continuing Airworthiness Information 
(MCAI) EASA AD 2016-0093, dated May 13, 2016, for related 
information. This MCAI may be found in the AD docket on the Internet 
at http://www.regulations.gov by searching for and locating Docket 
No. FAA-2017-0248.
    (2) For service information identified in this AD, contact 
Airbus, Airworthiness Office--EIAS, 1 Rond Point Maurice Bellonte, 
31707 Blagnac Cedex, France; telephone: +33 5 61 93 36 96; fax: +33 
5 61 93 44 51; email: [email protected]; Internet: 
http://www.airbus.com. You may view this service information at the 
FAA, Transport Airplane Directorate, 1601 Lind Avenue SW., Renton, 
WA. For information on the availability of this material at the FAA, 
call 425-227-1221.

    Issued in Renton, Washington, on April 5, 2017.
Michael Kaszycki,
Acting Manager, Transport Airplane Directorate, Aircraft Certification 
Service.
[FR Doc. 2017-07441 Filed 4-12-17; 8:45 am]
 BILLING CODE 4910-13-P
Federal Register / Vol. 82, No. 70 / Thursday, April 13, 2017 / Proposed Rules 17771

MCAI’’), to correct an unsafe condition condition exists and is likely to exist or Airworthiness Limitations Based on
for all Airbus Model A318, A319, A320, develop on other products of the same Type Design
and A321 series airplanes. The MCAI type design. The FAA recently became aware of an
states: This proposed AD would require issue related to the applicability of ADs
The airworthiness limitations for Airbus revisions to certain operator that require incorporation of an ALS
A320 family aeroplanes are currently defined maintenance documents to include new revision into an operator’s maintenance
and published in Airbus A318/A319/A320/ actions (e.g., inspections). Compliance or inspection program.
A321 Airworthiness Limitations Section with these actions is required by 14 CFR Typically, when these types of ADs
(ALS) documents. The airworthiness 91.403(c). For airplanes that have been are issued by civil aviation authorities
limitations applicable to the System previously modified, altered, or repaired of other countries, they apply to all
Equipment Maintenance Requirements,
which are approved by [European Aviation
in the areas addressed by this proposed airplanes covered under an identified
Safety Agency] EASA, are specified in ALS AD, the operator may not be able to type certificate (TC). The corresponding
Part 4. accomplish the actions described in the FAA AD typically retains applicability
The instructions contained in the ALS Part revisions. In this situation, to comply to all of those airplanes.
4 have been identified as mandatory actions with 14 CFR 91.403(c), the operator In addition, U.S. operators must
for continued airworthiness. Failure to must request approval for an alternative operate their airplanes in an airworthy
comply with these instructions could result method of compliance according to condition, in accordance with 14 CFR
in an unsafe condition. paragraph (k)(1) of this proposed AD. 91.7(a). Included in this obligation is the
Previously, EASA issued AD 2013–0146 requirement to perform any
The request should include a
[which corresponds to FAA AD 2014–26–10]
to require accomplishment of all description of changes to the required maintenance or inspections specified in
maintenance actions as described in ALS Part inspections that will ensure the the ALS, and in accordance with the
4 at Revision 01. The new ALS Part 4 continued operational safety of the ALS as specified in 14 CFR 43.16 and
Revision 03 (hereafter referred to as ‘the ALS’ airplane. 14 CFR 91.403(c), unless an alternative
in this AD) includes new and/or more has been approved by the FAA.
restrictive requirements. ALS Part 4 Revision Differences Between This Proposed AD When a type certificate is issued for
03, issue 02, has been released to include and the MCAI or Service Information a type design, the specific ALS,
editorial changes. The EASA AD specifies that if there including revisions, is a part of that type
For the reason described above, this design, as specified in 14 CFR 21.31(c).
are findings from the ALS inspection
[EASA] AD retains the requirements of EASA The sum effect of these operational
AD 2013–0146, which is superseded, and tasks, then corrective action must be
accomplished in accordance with and maintenance requirements is an
requires accomplishment of the actions
Airbus maintenance documentation. obligation to comply with the ALS
specified in the ALS.
However, this proposed AD does not defined in the type design referenced in
You may examine the MCAI in the the manufacturer’s conformity
include that requirement because
AD docket on the Internet at http:// statement. This obligation may
operators of U.S.-registered airplanes are
www.regulations.gov by searching for introduce a conflict with an AD that
required by general airworthiness and
and locating Docket No. FAA–2017– requires a specific ALS revision if new
operational regulations to use FAA-
0248. airplanes are delivered with a later
acceptable methods when performing
Related Service Information Under 1 maintenance. We consider those revision as part of their type design.
To address this conflict, the FAA has
CFR Part 51 methods to be adequate to address any
approved alternative methods of
Airbus has issued Airbus A318/A319/ corrective actions necessitated by the
compliance (AMOCs) that allow
A320/A321 ALS Part 4, ‘‘System findings of ALS inspections required by
operators to incorporate the most recent
Equipment Maintenance Requirements this proposed AD.
ALS revision into their maintenance/
(SEMR)’’ Revision 03 at Issue 02, dated Although the EASA AD recommends inspection programs, in lieu of the ALS
January 22, 2016. The service accomplishing the tasks specified in the revision required by the AD. This
information describes preventative ALS after the effective date of the EASA eliminates the conflict and enables the
maintenance requirements and includes AD, and revising the maintenance operator to comply with both the AD
updated inspections and intervals to be program within 12 months after the and the type design.
incorporated into the maintenance or effective date of the EASA AD, this However, compliance with AMOCs is
inspection program. This service proposed AD would only require normally optional, and we recently
information is reasonably available revising the maintenance or inspection became aware that some operators
because the interested parties have program within 30 days after the choose to retain the AD-mandated ALS
access to it through their normal course effective date of this AD, which revision in their fleet-wide
of business or by the means identified correlates with the compliance time maintenance/inspection programs,
in the ADDRESSES. required by AD 2014–26–10. In including those for new airplanes
developing an appropriate compliance delivered with later ALS revisions, to
FAA’s Determination and Requirements time for this proposed AD, we help standardize the maintenance of the
of This Proposed AD considered the degree of urgency fleet. To ensure that operators comply
This product has been approved by associated with the subject unsafe with the applicable ALS revision for
the aviation authority of another condition, the average utilization of the newly delivered airplanes containing a
country, and is approved for operation affected fleet, and the time necessary to later revision than that specified in an
nlaroche on DSK30NT082PROD with PROPOSALS

in the United States. Pursuant to our perform the revision (1 work-hour). In AD, we plan to limit the applicability of
bilateral agreement with the State of light of these factors, we find that a 30- ADs that mandate ALS revisions to
Design Authority, we have been notified day compliance time represents an those airplanes that are subject to an
of the unsafe condition described in the appropriate interval of time for affected earlier revision of the ALS, either as part
MCAI and service information airplanes to continue to operate without of the type design or as mandated by an
referenced above. We are proposing this compromising safety. earlier AD.
AD because we evaluated all pertinent These differences have been This proposed AD therefore would
information and determined an unsafe coordinated with the EASA and Airbus. apply to the airplanes identified in

VerDate Sep<11>2014 14:43 Apr 12, 2017 Jkt 241001 PO 00000 Frm 00004 Fmt 4702 Sfmt 4702 E:\FR\FM\13APP1.SGM 13APP1
17772 Federal Register / Vol. 82, No. 70 / Thursday, April 13, 2017 / Proposed Rules

paragraph (c) of this AD with an original responsibilities among the various (d) Subject
certificate of airworthiness or original levels of government. Air Transport Association (ATA) of
export certificate of airworthiness that For the reasons discussed above, I America Code 05, Time Limits/Maintenance
was issued on or before the date of certify this proposed regulation: Checks.
approval of the ALS revision identified (e) Reason
1. Is not a ‘‘significant regulatory
in this proposed AD. Operators of
action’’ under Executive Order 12866; This AD was prompted by a determination
airplanes with an original certificate of that more restrictive maintenance
airworthiness or original export 2. Is not a ‘‘significant rule’’ under the
instructions and airworthiness limitations are
certificate of airworthiness issued after DOT Regulatory Policies and Procedures necessary. We are issuing this AD to mitigate
that date must comply with the (44 FR 11034, February 26, 1979); the risks associated with aging effects of
airworthiness limitations specified as 3. Will not affect intrastate aviation in airplane systems. Such aging effects could
part of the approved type design and Alaska; and change the characteristics of the systems
referenced on the type certificate data leading to an increased potential for failure,
4. Will not have a significant which could result in failure of certain life-
sheet. economic impact, positive or negative, limited parts, and reduced structural
Costs of Compliance on a substantial number of small entities integrity or reduced controllability of the
under the criteria of the Regulatory airplane.
We estimate that this proposed AD
Flexibility Act.
affects 1,032 airplanes of U.S. registry. (f) Compliance
The actions required by AD 2014–26– List of Subjects in 14 CFR Part 39 Comply with this AD within the
10, and retained in this proposed AD compliance times specified, unless already
take about 1 work-hour per product, at Air transportation, Aircraft, Aviation done.
an average labor rate of $85 per work- safety, Incorporation by reference,
Safety. (g) Retained Requirement: Maintenance or
hour. Based on these figures, the Inspection Program Revision, With No
estimated cost of the actions that are The Proposed Amendment Changes
required by AD 2014–26–10 is $85 per
This paragraph restates the requirements of
product. Accordingly, under the authority paragraph (g) of AD 2014–26–10, with no
We also estimate that it would take delegated to me by the Administrator, changes. Within 30 days after February 25,
about 1 work-hour per product to the FAA proposes to amend 14 CFR part 2015 (the effective date of AD 2014–26–10):
comply with the basic requirements of 39 as follows: Revise the maintenance or inspection
this proposed AD. The average labor program, as applicable, to incorporate Airbus
rate is $85 per work-hour. Based on PART 39—AIRWORTHINESS A318/A319/A320/A321 Airworthiness
these figures, we estimate the cost of DIRECTIVES Limitations Section, ALS Part 4, ‘‘Aging
this proposed AD on U.S. operators to Systems Maintenance,’’ Revision 01, dated
be $87,720, or $85 per product. ■ 1. The authority citation for part 39 June 15, 2012. The initial compliance time
continues to read as follows: for doing the actions is at the applicable time
Authority for This Rulemaking specified in Airbus A318/A319/A320/A321
Authority: 49 U.S.C. 106(g), 40113, 44701. Airworthiness Limitations Section, ALS Part
Title 49 of the United States Code 4, ‘‘Aging Systems Maintenance,’’ Revision
specifies the FAA’s authority to issue § 39.13 [Amended] 01, dated June 15, 2012; or within 2 weeks
rules on aviation safety. Subtitle I, ■ 2. The FAA amends § 39.13 by after revising the maintenance or inspection
section 106, describes the authority of removing Airworthiness Directive (AD) program; whichever occurs later.
the FAA Administrator. ‘‘Subtitle VII: 2014–26–10, Amendment 39–18061 (80 Accomplishing the actions specified in
Aviation Programs,’’ describes in more FR 2813, January 21, 2015), and adding
paragraph (i) of this AD terminates the
detail the scope of the Agency’s requirements of this paragraph.
the following new AD:
authority. (h) Retained Requirement: No Alternative
We are issuing this rulemaking under Airbus: Docket No. FAA–2017–0248;
Actions or Intervals, With New Paragraph
the authority described in ‘‘Subtitle VII, Directorate Identifier 2016–NM–088–AD.
Reference
Part A, Subpart III, Section 44701: (a) Comments Due Date This paragraph restates the requirements of
General requirements.’’ Under that We must receive comments by May 30, paragraph (h) of AD 2014–26–10, with new
section, Congress charges the FAA with 2017. paragraph reference. Except as required by
promoting safe flight of civil aircraft in paragraph (i) of this AD, after
air commerce by prescribing regulations (b) Affected ADs accomplishment of the revision required by
for practices, methods, and procedures This AD replaces AD 2014–26–10, paragraph (g) of this AD, no alternative
the Administrator finds necessary for Amendment 39–18061 (80 FR 2813, January actions (e.g., inspections) or intervals may be
safety in air commerce. This regulation 21, 2015) (‘‘AD 2014–26–10’’). used unless the actions or intervals are
approved as an alternative method of
is within the scope of that authority (c) Applicability compliance (AMOC) in accordance with the
because it addresses an unsafe condition This AD applies to the Airbus airplanes procedures specified in paragraph (k)(1) of
that is likely to exist or develop on identified in paragraphs (c)(1), (c)(2), (c)(3), this AD.
products identified in this rulemaking and (c)(4) of this AD; certificated in any
action. category; with an original certificate of (i) New Requirement: Maintenance or
airworthiness or original export certificate of Inspection Program Revision
Regulatory Findings airworthiness issued on or before December Within 30 days after the effective date of
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We determined that this proposed AD 21, 2015. this AD: Revise the maintenance or
would not have federalism implications (1) Model A318–111, –112, –121, and –122 inspection program, as applicable, to
under Executive Order 13132. This airplanes. incorporate Airbus A318/A319/A320/A321
(2) Model A319–111, –112, –113, –114, Airworthiness Limitations Section (ALS) Part
proposed AD would not have a –115, –131, –132, and –133 airplanes. 4, ‘‘System Equipment Maintenance
substantial direct effect on the States, on (3) Model A320—211, –212, –214, –231, Requirements (SEMR)’’ Revision 03 at Issue
the relationship between the national –232, and –233 airplanes. 02, dated January 22, 2016. The initial
Government and the States, or on the (4) Model A321–111, –112, –131, –211, compliance time for doing the actions is at
distribution of power and –212, –213, –231, and –232 airplanes. the applicable time specified in Airbus A318/

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Federal Register / Vol. 82, No. 70 / Thursday, April 13, 2017 / Proposed Rules 17773

A319/A320/A321 Airworthiness Limitations airbus.com; Internet: http://www.airbus.com. W12–140, 1200 New Jersey Avenue SE.,
Section, ALS Part 4, ‘‘System Equipment You may view this service information at the Washington, DC 20590.
Maintenance Requirements (SEMR)’’ FAA, Transport Airplane Directorate, 1601 • Hand Delivery: Deliver to Mail
Revision 03 at Issue 02, dated January 22, Lind Avenue SW., Renton, WA. For address above between 9 a.m. and 5
2016; or within 2 weeks after revising the information on the availability of this
maintenance or inspection program;
p.m., Monday through Friday, except
material at the FAA, call 425–227–1221.
whichever occurs later. Accomplishing the Federal holidays.
actions specified in this paragraph terminates Issued in Renton, Washington, on April 5, For service information identified in
the requirements of paragraph (g) of this AD. 2017. this NPRM, contact Boeing Commercial
Michael Kaszycki, Airplanes, Attention: Contractual & Data
(j) New Provision: No Alternative Actions or
Acting Manager, Transport Airplane Services (C&DS), 2600 Westminster
Intervals
Directorate, Aircraft Certification Service. Blvd., MC 110–SK57, Seal Beach, CA
After the action required by paragraph (i) [FR Doc. 2017–07441 Filed 4–12–17; 8:45 am] 90740–5600; telephone 562–797–1717;
of this AD has been done, no alternative
BILLING CODE 4910–13–P Internet https://
actions (e.g., inspections) or intervals may be
used unless the actions or intervals are www.myboeingfleet.com. You may view
approved as an AMOC in accordance with this referenced service information at
the procedures specified in paragraph (k)(1) DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION the FAA, Transport Airplane
of this AD. Directorate, 1601 Lind Avenue SW.,
Federal Aviation Administration Renton, WA. For information on the
(k) Other FAA AD Provisions
availability of this material at the FAA,
The following provisions also apply to this 14 CFR Part 39 call 425–227–1221. It is also available
AD:
[Docket No. FAA–2017–0249; Directorate on the Internet at http://
(1) Alternative Methods of Compliance
(AMOCs): The Manager, International Identifier 2016–NM–138–AD] www.regulations.gov by searching for
Branch, ANM–116, Transport Airplane and locating Docket No. FAA–2017–
Directorate, FAA, has the authority to RIN 2120–AA64 0249.
approve AMOCs for this AD, if requested
Airworthiness Directives; The Boeing Examining the AD Docket
using the procedures found in 14 CFR 39.19.
In accordance with 14 CFR 39.19, send your Company Airplanes You may examine the AD docket on
request to your principal inspector or local the Internet at http://
Flight Standards District Office, as AGENCY: Federal Aviation
www.regulations.gov by searching for
appropriate. If sending information directly Administration (FAA), DOT.
and locating Docket No. FAA–2017–
to the International Branch, send it to ATTN: ACTION: Notice of proposed rulemaking 0249; or in person at the Docket
Sanjay Ralhan, Aerospace Engineer, (NPRM).
International Branch, ANM–116, Transport
Management Facility between 9 a.m.
Airplane Directorate, FAA, 1601 Lind SUMMARY: We propose to adopt a new and 5 p.m., Monday through Friday,
Avenue SW., Renton, WA 98057–3356; airworthiness directive (AD) for all The except Federal holidays. The AD docket
telephone: 425–227–1405; fax: 425–227– contains this proposed AD, the
Boeing Company Model 757–200,
1149. Information may be emailed to: 9– regulatory evaluation, any comments
ANM–116–AMOC–REQUESTS@faa.gov.
–200PF, and –200CB series airplanes.
received, and other information. The
(i) Before using any approved AMOC, This proposed AD was prompted by
street address for the Docket Office
notify your appropriate principal inspector, reports of slats disbonding on airplanes
(phone: 800–647–5527) is in the
or lacking a principal inspector, the manager on which the terminating actions of AD
ADDRESSES section. Comments will be
of the local flight standards district office/ 2005–07–08 had been performed. We
certificate holding district office. available in the AD docket shortly after
have also received reports of slats
(ii) AMOCs approved previously for AD receipt.
disbonding on airplanes outside of the
2014–26–10 are approved as AMOCs for the FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Lu
applicability of AD 90–23–06, AD 91–
corresponding provisions of paragraph (g) of
22–51, and AD 2005–07–08. This Lu, Aerospace Engineer, Airframe
this AD. Branch, ANM–120S, FAA, Seattle
(2) Contacting the Manufacturer: As of the proposed AD would require
determining the type of trailing edge slat Aircraft Certification Office (ACO), 1601
effective date of this AD, for any requirement Lind Avenue SW., Renton, WA 98057–
in this AD to obtain corrective actions from wedges of the leading edge slats,
a manufacturer, the action must be repetitive inspections for disbonding on 3356; phone: 425–917–6577; fax: 425–
accomplished using a method approved by certain trailing edge slat wedges, and 917–6478; email: lu.lu@faa.gov.
the Manager, International Branch, ANM– corrective actions, if necessary. This SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION:
116, Transport Airplane Directorate, FAA; or proposed AD would also provide an
the European Aviation Safety Agency
Comments Invited
optional terminating action for the
(EASA); or EASA Design Organization We invite you to send any written
Approval (DOA). If approved by the DOA, repetitive inspections. We are proposing
relevant data, views, or arguments about
the approval must include the DOA- this AD to address the unsafe condition
this proposal. Send your comments to
authorized signature. on these products.
an address listed under the ADDRESSES
(l) Related Information DATES: We must receive comments on section. Include ‘‘Docket No. FAA–
this proposed AD by May 30, 2017. 2017–0249; Directorate Identifier 2016–
(1) Refer to Mandatory Continuing
Airworthiness Information (MCAI) EASA AD ADDRESSES: You may send comments, NM–138–AD’’ at the beginning of your
2016–0093, dated May 13, 2016, for related using the procedures found in 14 CFR comments. We specifically invite
information. This MCAI may be found in the 11.43 and 11.45, by any of the following comments on the overall regulatory,
nlaroche on DSK30NT082PROD with PROPOSALS

AD docket on the Internet at http:// methods: economic, environmental, and energy
www.regulations.gov by searching for and • Federal eRulemaking Portal: Go to aspects of this proposed AD. We will
locating Docket No. FAA–2017–0248. http://www.regulations.gov. Follow the
(2) For service information identified in
consider all comments received by the
this AD, contact Airbus, Airworthiness
instructions for submitting comments. closing date and may amend this
Office—EIAS, 1 Rond Point Maurice • Fax: 202–493–2251. proposed AD because of those
Bellonte, 31707 Blagnac Cedex, France; • Mail: U.S. Department of comments.
telephone: +33 5 61 93 36 96; fax: +33 5 61 Transportation, Docket Operations, M– We will post all comments we
93 44 51; email: account.airworth-eas@ 30, West Building Ground Floor, Room receive, without change, to

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Document Created: 2017-04-13 01:09:30
Document Modified: 2017-04-13 01:09:30
Category		Regulatory Information
Collection		Federal Register
sudoc Class		AE 2.7: GS 4.107: AE 2.106:
Publisher		Office of the Federal Register, National Archives and Records Administration
Section		Proposed Rules
Action		Notice of proposed rulemaking (NPRM).
Dates		We must receive comments on this proposed AD by May 30, 2017.
Contact		Sanjay Ralhan, Aerospace Engineer, International Branch, ANM-116, Transport Airplane Directorate, FAA, 1601 Lind Avenue SW., Renton, WA 98057-3356; telephone: 425-227-1405; fax: 425-227-1149.
FR Citation		82 FR 17770
RIN Number		2120-AA64
CFR Associated		Air Transportation; Aircraft; Aviation Safety; Incorporation by Reference and Safety
82 FR 17770 - Airworthiness Directives; Airbus Airplanes

DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATIONFederal Aviation Administration

Federal Register Volume 82, Issue 70 (April 13, 2017)

DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION
Federal Aviation Administration
