82 FR 23507 - Airworthiness Directives; The Boeing Company Airplanes
DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION
Federal Aviation Administration Federal Register Volume 82, Issue 98 (May 23, 2017)
Federal Aviation Administration
Federal Register Volume 82, Issue 98 (May 23, 2017)
| Page Range | 23507-23509 | |
| FR Document | 2017-10263 |
[Federal Register Volume 82, Number 98 (Tuesday, May 23, 2017)] [Rules and Regulations] [Pages 23507-23509] From the Federal Register Online [www.thefederalregister.org] [FR Doc No: 2017-10263] ----------------------------------------------------------------------- DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION Federal Aviation Administration 14 CFR Part 39 [Docket No. FAA-2016-9434; Directorate Identifier 2016-NM-136-AD; Amendment 39-18896; AD 2017-10-22] RIN 2120-AA64 Airworthiness Directives; The Boeing Company Airplanes AGENCY: Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), DOT. ACTION: Final rule. ----------------------------------------------------------------------- SUMMARY: We are adopting a new airworthiness directive (AD) for certain The Boeing Company Model 737-600, -700, -700C, -800, and -900 series airplanes. This AD was prompted by an evaluation by the design approval holder (DAH) indicating that the web lap splices in the aft pressure bulkhead are subject to widespread fatigue damage (WFD). This AD requires repetitive inspections of the web lap splices in the aft pressure bulkhead for cracking of the fastener holes, and repair if necessary. We are issuing this AD to address the unsafe condition on these products. DATES: This AD is effective June 27, 2017. The Director of the Federal Register approved the incorporation by reference of a certain publication listed in this AD as of June 27, 2017. ADDRESSES: For service information identified in this final rule, contact Boeing Commercial Airplanes, Attention: Contractual & Data Services (C&DS), 2600 Westminster Blvd., MC 110-SK57, Seal Beach, CA 90740; telephone: 562-797-1717; Internet: https://www.myboeingfleet.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. It is also available on the Internet at http://www.regulations.gov by searching for and locating Docket No. FAA-2016- 9434. 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-2016- 9434; 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 AD, the regulatory evaluation, any comments received, and other information. The address for the Docket Office (phone: 800-647- 5527) is Docket Management Facility, U.S. Department of Transportation, Docket Operations, M-30, West Building Ground Floor, Room W12-140, 1200 New Jersey Avenue SE., Washington, DC 20590. FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Alan Pohl, Aerospace Engineer, Airframe Branch, ANM-120S, FAA, Seattle Aircraft Certification Office (ACO), 1601 Lind Avenue SW., Renton, WA 98057-3356; phone: 425-917- 6450; fax: 425-917-6590; email: [email protected]. SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: Discussion We issued a notice of proposed rulemaking (NPRM) to amend 14 CFR part 39 by adding an AD that would apply to certain The Boeing Company Model 737-600, -700, -700C, -800, and -900 series airplanes. The NPRM published in the Federal Register on December 5, 2016 (81 FR 87496) (``the NPRM''). The NPRM was prompted by an evaluation by the DAH indicating that the web lap splices in the aft pressure bulkhead are subject to WFD. The NPRM proposed to require repetitive inspections of the web lap splices in the aft pressure bulkhead for cracking of the fastener holes, and repair if necessary. We are issuing this AD to detect and correct cracks of the web lap splices in the aft pressure bulkhead, which could result in possible rapid decompression and loss of structural integrity of the airplane. Comments We gave the public the opportunity to participate in developing this AD. The following presents the comments received on the NPRM and the FAA's response to each comment. Support for the NPRM Boeing, United Airlines, and commenter Razia Khan concurred with the content of the NPRM. Effect of Winglets on Accomplishment of the Proposed Actions Aviation Partners Boeing stated that installation of winglets, as provided in Supplemental Type Certificate (STC) ST00830SE, does not affect the ability to accomplish the actions proposed in the NPRM. We agree with the commenter. We have redesignated paragraph (c) of the proposed AD as paragraph (c)(1) of this AD and added paragraph (c)(2) to this AD to state that installation of STC ST00830SE does not affect the ability to accomplish the actions required by this AD. Therefore, for airplanes on which STC ST00830SE is installed, a ``change in product'' alternative method of compliance (AMOC) approval request is not necessary to comply with the requirements of 14 CFR 39.17. Request To Omit Inspections of Existing Repairs Southwest Airlines (SWA) asked that we include provisions for airplanes on which repairs have been accomplished previously per the structural repair manual or per an Organization Designation Authorization (ODA) signed FAA Form 8100-9 to omit the inspections at the repair locations. SWA noted that these existing repairs would inhibit the inspections specified in paragraph (g) of the proposed AD. SWA added that including follow-on actions as an alternative to the actions specified in Boeing Alert Service Bulletin 737-53A1353, dated July 21, 2016, when an existing repair inhibits the inspections required by paragraph (g) of the proposed AD, would also be acceptable. We do not agree with the commenter's request. We acknowledge that SWA is requesting relief from additional approval for actions for existing repaired locations. However, SWA did not identify any specific structural repair manual (SRM) repairs or provide a general repair description of repairs previously approved by the Boeing ODA per an FAA Form 8100-9. These criteria have been published by Boeing in related service information for similar issues, but not for this particular issue. Under the provisions of paragraph (i) of this AD, we will consider requests for approval of an AMOC if appropriate data are submitted to substantiate that the method would provide an acceptable level of safety. We have made no change to this AD in this regard. Conclusion We reviewed the relevant data, considered the comments received, and determined that air safety and the [[Page 23508]] public interest require adopting this AD with the changes described previously and minor editorial changes. We have determined that these minor changes:Are consistent with the intent that was proposed in the NPRM for correcting the unsafe condition; and Do not add any additional burden upon the public than was already proposed in the NPRM. We also determined that these changes will not increase the economic burden on any operator or increase the scope of this AD. Related Service Information Under 1 CFR Part 51 We reviewed Boeing Alert Service Bulletin 737-53A1353, dated July 21, 2016. The service information describes procedures for a low frequency eddy current inspection to detect cracking of each web lap splice of the aft pressure bulkhead at the fastener row common to the stiffener, and a high frequency eddy current inspection to detect cracking of each web lap splice of the aft pressure bulkhead at the fastener row not common to the stiffener. 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 section. Costs of Compliance We estimate that this AD affects 693 airplanes of U.S. registry. We estimate the following costs to comply with this AD: Estimated Costs ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Action Labor cost Cost per product Cost on U.S. operators ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Inspections........................ 26 work-hours x $85 per $2,210 per inspection $1,531,530 per hour = $2,210 per cycle. inspection cycle. inspection cycle. ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- We have received no definitive data that would enable us to provide cost estimates for the on-condition actions specified in this AD. 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 This AD will not have federalism implications under Executive Order 13132. This AD will 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 that this AD: (1) Is not a ``significant regulatory action'' under Executive Order 12866, (2) Is not a ``significant rule'' under 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. Adoption of the Amendment Accordingly, under the authority delegated to me by the Administrator, the FAA amends 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 adding the following new airworthiness directive (AD): 2017-10-22 The Boeing Company: Amendment 39-18896; Docket No. FAA- 2016-9434; Directorate Identifier 2016-NM-136-AD. (a) Effective Date This AD is effective June 27, 2017. (b) Affected ADs None. (c) Applicability (1) This AD applies to The Boeing Company Model 737-600, -700, - 700C, -800, and -900 series airplanes, certificated in any category, as identified in Boeing Alert Service Bulletin 737-53A1353, dated July 21, 2016. (2) Installation of Supplemental Type Certificate (STC) ST00830SE [http://rgl.faa.gov/Regulatory_and_Guidance_Library/rgstc.nsf/0/184DE9A71EC3FA5586257EAE00707DA6?OpenDocument&Highlight=st00830se] does not affect the ability to accomplish the actions required by this AD. Therefore, for airplanes on which STC ST00830SE is installed, a ``change in product'' alternative method of compliance (AMOC) approval request is not necessary to comply with the requirements of 14 CFR 39.17. (d) Subject Air Transport Association (ATA) of America Code 53, Fuselage. (e) Unsafe Condition This AD was prompted by an evaluation by the design approval holder (DAH) indicating that the web lap splices in the aft pressure bulkhead are subject to widespread fatigue damage (WFD). We are issuing this AD to detect and correct cracks of the web lap splices in the aft pressure bulkhead, which could result in possible rapid decompression and loss of structural integrity of the airplane. (f) Compliance Comply with this AD within the compliance times specified, unless already done. (g) Repetitive Inspections Except as provided by paragraph (h) of this AD, at the applicable time specified in paragraph 1.E., ``Compliance,'' of Boeing Alert Service Bulletin 737-53A1353, dated July 21, 2016: Do a low frequency eddy current (LFEC) inspection to detect cracking of each web lap splice of the aft pressure bulkhead at the fastener row common to the stiffener, and a high frequency eddy current (HFEC) inspection to detect cracking of each web lap splice of the aft pressure bulkhead at the fastener row not common to the stiffener, in accordance with the [[Page 23509]] Accomplishment Instructions of Boeing Alert Service Bulletin 737- 53A1353, dated July 21, 2016. (1) If no crack is found: Repeat the inspections thereafter at the applicable times specified in paragraph 1.E., ``Compliance,'' of Boeing Alert Service Bulletin 737-53A1353, dated July 21, 2016. (2) If any crack is found: Do the actions specified in paragraphs (g)(2)(i) and (g)(2)(ii) of this AD. (i) Repair the crack before further flight using a method approved in accordance with the procedures specified in paragraph (i) of this AD. Although Boeing Alert Service Bulletin 737-53A1353, dated July 21, 2016, specifies to contact Boeing for repair instructions, and specifies that action as ``RC'' (Required for Compliance), this AD requires repair as specified in this paragraph. (ii) On areas that are not repaired, repeat the inspections thereafter at the applicable times specified in paragraph 1.E., ``Compliance,'' of Boeing Alert Service Bulletin 737-53A1353, dated July 21, 2016. (h) Service Information Exception Where paragraph 1.E., ``Compliance,'' of Boeing Alert Service Bulletin 737-53A1353, dated July 21, 2016, specifies a compliance time ``after the Original Issue date of this Service Bulletin,'' this AD requires compliance within the specified compliance time after the effective date of this AD. (i) Alternative Methods of Compliance (AMOCs) (1) The Manager, Seattle Aircraft Certification Office (ACO), 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 manager of the ACO, send it to the attention of the person identified in paragraph (j) of this AD. Information may be emailed to: [email protected]. (2) 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. (3) An AMOC that provides an acceptable level of safety may be used for any repair, modification, or alteration required by this AD if it is approved by the Boeing Commercial Airplanes Organization Designation Authorization (ODA) that has been authorized by the Manager, Seattle ACO, to make those findings. To be approved, the repair method, modification deviation, or alteration deviation must meet the certification basis of the airplane, and the approval must specifically refer to this AD. (4) Except as required by paragraph (g)(2)(i) of this AD: For service information that contains steps that are labeled as RC, the provisions of paragraphs (i)(4)(i) and (i)(4)(ii) of this AD apply. (i) The steps labeled as RC, including substeps under an RC step and any figures identified in an RC step, must be done to comply with the AD. If a step or substep is labeled ``RC Exempt,'' then the RC requirement is removed from that step or substep. An AMOC is required for any deviations to RC steps, including substeps and identified figures. (ii) Steps not labeled as RC may be deviated from using accepted methods in accordance with the operator's maintenance or inspection program without obtaining approval of an AMOC, provided the RC steps, including substeps and identified figures, can still be done as specified, and the airplane can be put back in an airworthy condition. (j) Related Information For more information about this AD, contact Alan Pohl, Aerospace Engineer, Airframe Branch, ANM-120S, FAA, Seattle ACO, 1601 Lind Avenue SW., Renton, WA 98057-3356; phone: 425-917-6450; fax: 425- 917-6590; email: [email protected]. (k) Material Incorporated by Reference (1) The Director of the Federal Register approved the incorporation by reference (IBR) of the service information listed in this paragraph under 5 U.S.C. 552(a) and 1 CFR part 51. (2) You must use this service information as applicable to do the actions required by this AD, unless the AD specifies otherwise. (i) Boeing Alert Service Bulletin 737-53A1353, dated July 21, 2016. (ii) Reserved. (3) For service information identified in this AD, contact Boeing Commercial Airplanes, Attention: Contractual & Data Services (C&DS), 2600 Westminster Blvd., MC 110-SK57, Seal Beach, CA 90740; telephone: 562-797-1717; Internet: https://www.myboeingfleet.com. (4) 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. (5) You may view this service information that is incorporated by reference at the National Archives and Records Administration (NARA). For information on the availability of this material at NARA, call 202-741-6030, or go to: http://www.archives.gov/federal-register/cfr/ibr-locations.html. Issued in Renton, Washington, on May 10, 2017. Jeffrey E. Duven, Manager, Transport Airplane Directorate, Aircraft Certification Service. [FR Doc. 2017-10263 Filed 5-22-17; 8:45 am] BILLING CODE 4910-13-P
![Federal Register / Vol. 82, No. 98 / Tuesday, May 23, 2017 / Rules and Regulations 23507
www.archives.gov/federal-register/cfr/ibr- Examining the AD Docket Effect of Winglets on Accomplishment
locations.html. of the Proposed Actions
Issued in Renton, Washington, on May 12, You may examine the AD docket on
the Internet at http:// Aviation Partners Boeing stated that
2017. installation of winglets, as provided in
Michael Kaszycki, www.regulations.gov by searching for
and locating Docket No. FAA–2016– Supplemental Type Certificate (STC)
Acting Manager, Transport Airplane ST00830SE, does not affect the ability to
Directorate, Aircraft Certification Service. 9434; or in person at the Docket
accomplish the actions proposed in the
[FR Doc. 2017–10252 Filed 5–22–17; 8:45 am] Management Facility between 9 a.m.
NPRM.
and 5 p.m., Monday through Friday,
BILLING CODE 4910–13–P We agree with the commenter. We
except Federal holidays. The AD docket
have redesignated paragraph (c) of the
contains this AD, the regulatory proposed AD as paragraph (c)(1) of this
DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION evaluation, any comments received, and AD and added paragraph (c)(2) to this
other information. The address for the AD to state that installation of STC
Federal Aviation Administration Docket Office (phone: 800–647–5527) is ST00830SE does not affect the ability to
Docket Management Facility, U.S. accomplish the actions required by this
14 CFR Part 39 Department of Transportation, Docket AD. Therefore, for airplanes on which
[Docket No. FAA–2016–9434; Directorate Operations, M–30, West Building STC ST00830SE is installed, a ‘‘change
Identifier 2016–NM–136–AD; Amendment Ground Floor, Room W12–140, 1200 in product’’ alternative method of
39–18896; AD 2017–10–22] New Jersey Avenue SE., Washington, compliance (AMOC) approval request is
RIN 2120–AA64 DC 20590. not necessary to comply with the
FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: requirements of 14 CFR 39.17.
Airworthiness Directives; The Boeing Alan Pohl, Aerospace Engineer, Request To Omit Inspections of Existing
Company Airplanes Airframe Branch, ANM–120S, FAA, Repairs
AGENCY: Federal Aviation Seattle Aircraft Certification Office
Southwest Airlines (SWA) asked that
Administration (FAA), DOT. (ACO), 1601 Lind Avenue SW., Renton, we include provisions for airplanes on
ACTION: Final rule. WA 98057–3356; phone: 425–917–6450; which repairs have been accomplished
fax: 425–917–6590; email: alan.pohl@ previously per the structural repair
SUMMARY: We are adopting a new faa.gov. manual or per an Organization
airworthiness directive (AD) for certain
SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION:
Designation Authorization (ODA) signed
The Boeing Company Model 737–600,
FAA Form 8100–9 to omit the
–700, –700C, –800, and –900 series
Discussion inspections at the repair locations. SWA
airplanes. This AD was prompted by an
noted that these existing repairs would
evaluation by the design approval We issued a notice of proposed inhibit the inspections specified in
holder (DAH) indicating that the web rulemaking (NPRM) to amend 14 CFR paragraph (g) of the proposed AD. SWA
lap splices in the aft pressure bulkhead part 39 by adding an AD that would added that including follow-on actions
are subject to widespread fatigue apply to certain The Boeing Company as an alternative to the actions specified
damage (WFD). This AD requires Model 737–600, –700, –700C, –800, and in Boeing Alert Service Bulletin 737–
repetitive inspections of the web lap –900 series airplanes. The NPRM 53A1353, dated July 21, 2016, when an
splices in the aft pressure bulkhead for published in the Federal Register on existing repair inhibits the inspections
cracking of the fastener holes, and repair December 5, 2016 (81 FR 87496) (‘‘the required by paragraph (g) of the
if necessary. We are issuing this AD to
NPRM’’). The NPRM was prompted by proposed AD, would also be acceptable.
address the unsafe condition on these
an evaluation by the DAH indicating We do not agree with the commenter’s
products.
that the web lap splices in the aft request. We acknowledge that SWA is
DATES: This AD is effective June 27, pressure bulkhead are subject to WFD. requesting relief from additional
2017. The NPRM proposed to require approval for actions for existing
The Director of the Federal Register repetitive inspections of the web lap repaired locations. However, SWA did
approved the incorporation by reference splices in the aft pressure bulkhead for not identify any specific structural
of a certain publication listed in this AD cracking of the fastener holes, and repair repair manual (SRM) repairs or provide
as of June 27, 2017. if necessary. We are issuing this AD to a general repair description of repairs
ADDRESSES: For service information detect and correct cracks of the web lap previously approved by the Boeing ODA
identified in this final rule, contact splices in the aft pressure bulkhead, per an FAA Form 8100–9. These criteria
Boeing Commercial Airplanes, which could result in possible rapid have been published by Boeing in
Attention: Contractual & Data Services decompression and loss of structural related service information for similar
(C&DS), 2600 Westminster Blvd., MC integrity of the airplane. issues, but not for this particular issue.
110–SK57, Seal Beach, CA 90740; Under the provisions of paragraph (i) of
telephone: 562–797–1717; Internet: Comments this AD, we will consider requests for
https://www.myboeingfleet.com. You approval of an AMOC if appropriate
may view this referenced service We gave the public the opportunity to
data are submitted to substantiate that
information at the FAA, Transport participate in developing this AD. The
the method would provide an
Airplane Directorate, 1601 Lind Avenue following presents the comments
acceptable level of safety. We have
jstallworth on DSK7TPTVN1PROD with RULES
SW., Renton, WA. For information on received on the NPRM and the FAA’s
made no change to this AD in this
the availability of this material at the response to each comment. regard.
FAA, call 425–227–1221. It is also Support for the NPRM
available on the Internet at http:// Conclusion
www.regulations.gov by searching for Boeing, United Airlines, and We reviewed the relevant data,
and locating Docket No. FAA–2016– commenter Razia Khan concurred with considered the comments received, and
9434. the content of the NPRM. determined that air safety and the
VerDate Sep<11>2014 13:41 May 22, 2017 Jkt 241001 PO 00000 Frm 00017 Fmt 4700 Sfmt 4700 E:\FR\FM\23MYR1.SGM 23MYR1](https://thefederalregister.org/doc/82_FR_23605/page/1.svg)
![23508 Federal Register / Vol. 82, No. 98 / Tuesday, May 23, 2017 / Rules and Regulations
public interest require adopting this AD Related Service Information Under 1 common to the stiffener. This service
with the changes described previously CFR Part 51 information is reasonably available
and minor editorial changes. We have because the interested parties have
determined that these minor changes: We reviewed Boeing Alert Service access to it through their normal course
• Are consistent with the intent that Bulletin 737–53A1353, dated July 21, of business or by the means identified
was proposed in the NPRM for 2016. The service information describes
in the ADDRESSES section.
correcting the unsafe condition; and procedures for a low frequency eddy
• Do not add any additional burden current inspection to detect cracking of Costs of Compliance
upon the public than was already each web lap splice of the aft pressure
proposed in the NPRM. bulkhead at the fastener row common to We estimate that this AD affects 693
We also determined that these the stiffener, and a high frequency eddy airplanes of U.S. registry.
changes will not increase the economic current inspection to detect cracking of We estimate the following costs to
burden on any operator or increase the each web lap splice of the aft pressure comply with this AD:
scope of this AD. bulkhead at the fastener row not
ESTIMATED COSTS
Action Labor cost Cost per product Cost on U.S. operators
Inspections ........................... 26 work-hours × $85 per hour = $2,210 per inspection $2,210 per inspection cycle $1,531,530 per inspection
cycle. cycle.
We have received no definitive data (2) Is not a ‘‘significant rule’’ under in any category, as identified in Boeing Alert
that would enable us to provide cost DOT Regulatory Policies and Procedures Service Bulletin 737–53A1353, dated July 21,
estimates for the on-condition actions (44 FR 11034, February 26, 1979), 2016.
(3) Will not affect intrastate aviation (2) Installation of Supplemental Type
specified in this AD. Certificate (STC) ST00830SE [http://
in Alaska, and rgl.faa.gov/Regulatory_and_Guidance_
Authority for This Rulemaking (4) Will not have a significant Library/rgstc.nsf/0/
economic impact, positive or negative, 184DE9A71EC3FA5586257EAE00707DA6?
Title 49 of the United States Code
on a substantial number of small entities OpenDocument&Highlight=st00830se] does
specifies the FAA’s authority to issue
under the criteria of the Regulatory not affect the ability to accomplish the
rules on aviation safety. Subtitle I, actions required by this AD. Therefore, for
Flexibility Act.
section 106, describes the authority of airplanes on which STC ST00830SE is
the FAA Administrator. Subtitle VII: List of Subjects in 14 CFR Part 39 installed, a ‘‘change in product’’ alternative
Aviation Programs, describes in more Air transportation, Aircraft, Aviation method of compliance (AMOC) approval
detail the scope of the Agency’s safety, Incorporation by reference, request is not necessary to comply with the
authority. requirements of 14 CFR 39.17.
Safety.
We are issuing this rulemaking under (d) Subject
Adoption of the Amendment
the authority described in Subtitle VII, Air Transport Association (ATA) of
Part A, Subpart III, Section 44701: Accordingly, under the authority America Code 53, Fuselage.
‘‘General requirements.’’ Under that delegated to me by the Administrator,
(e) Unsafe Condition
section, Congress charges the FAA with the FAA amends 14 CFR part 39 as
follows: This AD was prompted by an evaluation by
promoting safe flight of civil aircraft in the design approval holder (DAH) indicating
air commerce by prescribing regulations that the web lap splices in the aft pressure
PART 39—AIRWORTHINESS
for practices, methods, and procedures bulkhead are subject to widespread fatigue
DIRECTIVES
the Administrator finds necessary for damage (WFD). We are issuing this AD to
safety in air commerce. This regulation ■ 1. The authority citation for part 39 detect and correct cracks of the web lap
is within the scope of that authority splices in the aft pressure bulkhead, which
continues to read as follows: could result in possible rapid decompression
because it addresses an unsafe condition
Authority: 49 U.S.C. 106(g), 40113, 44701. and loss of structural integrity of the
that is likely to exist or develop on airplane.
products identified in this rulemaking § 39.13 [Amended]
action. (f) Compliance
■ 2. The FAA amends § 39.13 by adding
Comply with this AD within the
Regulatory Findings the following new airworthiness compliance times specified, unless already
directive (AD): done.
This AD will not have federalism 2017–10–22 The Boeing Company:
implications under Executive Order (g) Repetitive Inspections
Amendment 39–18896; Docket No.
13132. This AD will not have a FAA–2016–9434; Directorate Identifier Except as provided by paragraph (h) of this
substantial direct effect on the States, on 2016–NM–136–AD. AD, at the applicable time specified in
the relationship between the national paragraph 1.E., ‘‘Compliance,’’ of Boeing
(a) Effective Date Alert Service Bulletin 737–53A1353, dated
government and the States, or on the
This AD is effective June 27, 2017. July 21, 2016: Do a low frequency eddy
distribution of power and
jstallworth on DSK7TPTVN1PROD with RULES
current (LFEC) inspection to detect cracking
responsibilities among the various (b) Affected ADs of each web lap splice of the aft pressure
levels of government. None. bulkhead at the fastener row common to the
For the reasons discussed above, I stiffener, and a high frequency eddy current
(c) Applicability (HFEC) inspection to detect cracking of each
certify that this AD:
(1) This AD applies to The Boeing web lap splice of the aft pressure bulkhead
(1) Is not a ‘‘significant regulatory Company Model 737–600, –700, –700C, at the fastener row not common to the
action’’ under Executive Order 12866, –800, and –900 series airplanes, certificated stiffener, in accordance with the
VerDate Sep<11>2014 13:41 May 22, 2017 Jkt 241001 PO 00000 Frm 00018 Fmt 4700 Sfmt 4700 E:\FR\FM\23MYR1.SGM 23MYR1](https://thefederalregister.org/doc/82_FR_23605/page/2.svg)
![Federal Register / Vol. 82, No. 98 / Tuesday, May 23, 2017 / Rules and Regulations 23509
Accomplishment Instructions of Boeing Alert labeled ‘‘RC Exempt,’’ then the RC DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION
Service Bulletin 737–53A1353, dated July 21, requirement is removed from that step or
2016. substep. An AMOC is required for any Federal Aviation Administration
(1) If no crack is found: Repeat the deviations to RC steps, including substeps
inspections thereafter at the applicable times and identified figures. 14 CFR Part 39
specified in paragraph 1.E., ‘‘Compliance,’’ of
(ii) Steps not labeled as RC may be
Boeing Alert Service Bulletin 737–53A1353, [Docket No. FAA–2016–9394; Directorate
deviated from using accepted methods in
dated July 21, 2016. Identifier 2016–NM–162–AD; Amendment
(2) If any crack is found: Do the actions accordance with the operator’s maintenance 39–18872; AD 2017–09–10]
specified in paragraphs (g)(2)(i) and (g)(2)(ii) or inspection program without obtaining
of this AD. approval of an AMOC, provided the RC steps, RIN 2120–AA64
(i) Repair the crack before further flight including substeps and identified figures, can
using a method approved in accordance with still be done as specified, and the airplane Airworthiness Directives; The Boeing
the procedures specified in paragraph (i) of can be put back in an airworthy condition. Company Airplanes
this AD. Although Boeing Alert Service
Bulletin 737–53A1353, dated July 21, 2016, (j) Related Information AGENCY: Federal Aviation
specifies to contact Boeing for repair Administration (FAA), DOT.
For more information about this AD,
instructions, and specifies that action as contact Alan Pohl, Aerospace Engineer, ACTION: Final rule.
‘‘RC’’ (Required for Compliance), this AD Airframe Branch, ANM–120S, FAA, Seattle
requires repair as specified in this paragraph. SUMMARY: We are adopting a new
ACO, 1601 Lind Avenue SW., Renton, WA
(ii) On areas that are not repaired, repeat
98057–3356; phone: 425–917–6450; fax: 425–
airworthiness directive (AD) for all The
the inspections thereafter at the applicable Boeing Company Model 747–400, 747–
times specified in paragraph 1.E., 917–6590; email: alan.pohl@faa.gov.
400D, and 747–400F airplanes. This AD
‘‘Compliance,’’ of Boeing Alert Service (k) Material Incorporated by Reference was prompted by a report of a crack in
Bulletin 737–53A1353, dated July 21, 2016. the left wing front spar web, found
(1) The Director of the Federal Register
(h) Service Information Exception approved the incorporation by reference following a fuel leak. This AD requires
Where paragraph 1.E., ‘‘Compliance,’’ of (IBR) of the service information listed in this repetitive inspections for cracking of the
Boeing Alert Service Bulletin 737–53A1353, paragraph under 5 U.S.C. 552(a) and 1 CFR front spar web, and repairs if necessary.
dated July 21, 2016, specifies a compliance part 51. We are issuing this AD to address the
time ‘‘after the Original Issue date of this (2) You must use this service information unsafe condition on these products.
Service Bulletin,’’ this AD requires as applicable to do the actions required by DATES: This AD is effective June 27,
compliance within the specified compliance this AD, unless the AD specifies otherwise.
time after the effective date of this AD.
2017.
(i) Boeing Alert Service Bulletin 737– The Director of the Federal Register
(i) Alternative Methods of Compliance 53A1353, dated July 21, 2016. approved the incorporation by reference
(AMOCs) (ii) Reserved. of a certain publication listed in this AD
(1) The Manager, Seattle Aircraft (3) For service information identified in as of June 27, 2017.
Certification Office (ACO), FAA, has the this AD, contact Boeing Commercial
ADDRESSES: For service information
authority to approve AMOCs for this AD, if Airplanes, Attention: Contractual & Data
requested using the procedures found in 14
identified in this final rule, contact
Services (C&DS), 2600 Westminster Blvd.,
CFR 39.19. In accordance with 14 CFR 39.19, Boeing Commercial Airplanes,
MC 110–SK57, Seal Beach, CA 90740;
send your request to your principal inspector Attention: Contractual & Data Services
telephone: 562–797–1717; Internet: https://
or local Flight Standards District Office, as www.myboeingfleet.com.
(C&DS), 2600 Westminster Blvd., MC
appropriate. If sending information directly
(4) You may view this service information
110–SK57, Seal Beach, CA 90740–5600;
to the manager of the ACO, send it to the telephone 562–797–1717; Internet
attention of the person identified in at the FAA, Transport Airplane Directorate,
1601 Lind Avenue SW., Renton, WA. For https://www.myboeingfleet.com. You
paragraph (j) of this AD. Information may be may view this referenced service
emailed to: 9-ANM-Seattle-ACO-AMOC- information on the availability of this
material at the FAA, call 425–227–1221. information at the FAA, Transport
Requests@faa.gov.
(2) Before using any approved AMOC, (5) You may view this service information Airplane Directorate, 1601 Lind Avenue
notify your appropriate principal inspector, that is incorporated by reference at the SW., Renton, WA. For information on
or lacking a principal inspector, the manager National Archives and Records the availability of this material at the
of the local flight standards district office/ Administration (NARA). For information on FAA, call 425–227–1221. It is also
certificate holding district office. the availability of this material at NARA, call available on the Internet at http://
(3) An AMOC that provides an acceptable 202–741–6030, or go to: http:// www.regulations.gov by searching for
level of safety may be used for any repair, and locating Docket No. FAA–2016–
www.archives.gov/federal-register/cfr/ibr-
modification, or alteration required by this 9394.
locations.html.
AD if it is approved by the Boeing
Commercial Airplanes Organization Issued in Renton, Washington, on May 10, Examining the AD Docket
Designation Authorization (ODA) that has 2017.
been authorized by the Manager, Seattle
You may examine the AD docket on
Jeffrey E. Duven, the Internet at http://
ACO, to make those findings. To be
approved, the repair method, modification Manager, Transport Airplane Directorate, www.regulations.gov by searching for
deviation, or alteration deviation must meet Aircraft Certification Service. and locating Docket No. FAA–2016–
the certification basis of the airplane, and the [FR Doc. 2017–10263 Filed 5–22–17; 8:45 am] 9394; or in person at the Docket
approval must specifically refer to this AD. BILLING CODE 4910–13–P Management Facility between 9 a.m.
(4) Except as required by paragraph (g)(2)(i) and 5 p.m., Monday through Friday,
jstallworth on DSK7TPTVN1PROD with RULES
of this AD: For service information that except Federal holidays. The AD docket
contains steps that are labeled as RC, the contains this AD, the regulatory
provisions of paragraphs (i)(4)(i) and (i)(4)(ii)
of this AD apply.
evaluation, any comments received, and
(i) The steps labeled as RC, including other information. The address for the
substeps under an RC step and any figures Docket Office (phone: 800–647–5527) is
identified in an RC step, must be done to Docket Management Facility, U.S.
comply with the AD. If a step or substep is Department of Transportation, Docket
VerDate Sep<11>2014 13:41 May 22, 2017 Jkt 241001 PO 00000 Frm 00019 Fmt 4700 Sfmt 4700 E:\FR\FM\23MYR1.SGM 23MYR1](https://thefederalregister.org/doc/82_FR_23605/page/3.svg)
Document Created: 2017-05-23 02:14:26
Document Modified: 2017-05-23 02:14:26
| 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 | Rules and Regulations | |
| Action | Final rule. | |
| Dates | This AD is effective June 27, 2017. | |
| Contact | Alan Pohl, Aerospace Engineer, Airframe Branch, ANM-120S, FAA, Seattle Aircraft Certification Office (ACO), 1601 Lind Avenue SW., Renton, WA 98057-3356; phone: 425-917- 6450; fax: 425-917-6590; email: [email protected] | |
| FR Citation | 82 FR 23507 | |
| RIN Number | 2120-AA64 | |
| CFR Associated | Air Transportation; Aircraft; Aviation Safety; Incorporation by Reference and Safety |
2025 Federal Register | Disclaimer | Privacy Policy
USC | CFR | eCFR