82 FR 27983 - Airworthiness Directives; Airbus Airplanes
DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION
Federal Aviation Administration Federal Register Volume 82, Issue 117 (June 20, 2017)
Federal Aviation Administration
Federal Register Volume 82, Issue 117 (June 20, 2017)
| Page Range | 27983-27986 | |
| FR Document | 2017-12289 |
[Federal Register Volume 82, Number 117 (Tuesday, June 20, 2017)] [Rules and Regulations] [Pages 27983-27986] From the Federal Register Online [www.thefederalregister.org] [FR Doc No: 2017-12289] ----------------------------------------------------------------------- DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION Federal Aviation Administration 14 CFR Part 39 [Docket No. FAA-2015-3148; Directorate Identifier 2014-NM-254-AD; Amendment 39-18928; AD 2017-12-13] RIN 2120-AA64 Airworthiness Directives; Airbus Airplanes AGENCY: Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), Department of Transportation (DOT). ACTION: Final rule. ----------------------------------------------------------------------- SUMMARY: We are adopting a new airworthiness directive (AD) for certain Airbus Model A320-212, -214, -232, and -233 airplanes. This AD was prompted by a report of a crack found during an inspection of the pocket radius of the fuselage frame. This AD requires repetitive low frequency eddy current inspections or repetitive high frequency eddy current inspections of this area, and repair if necessary. The repair terminates the repetitive inspections. We are issuing this AD to address the unsafe condition on these products. DATES: This AD becomes effective July 25, 2017. The Director of the Federal Register approved the incorporation by reference of a certain publication listed in this AD as of July 25, 2017. ADDRESSES: For service information identified in this final rule, 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. It is also available on the Internet at http://www.regulations.gov by searching for and locating Docket No. FAA-2015- 3148. 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-2015- 3148; 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 [[Page 27984]] evaluation, any comments received, and other information. The street address for the Docket Office (telephone 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: 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: Discussion We issued a notice of proposed rulemaking (NPRM) to amend 14 CFR part 39 by adding an AD that would apply to Airbus Model A320-212, - 214, -232, and -233 airplanes. The NPRM published in the Federal Register on August 27, 2015 (80 FR 51968) (``the NPRM''). The European Aviation Safety Agency (EASA), which is the Technical Agent for the Member States of the European Union, has issued EASA Airworthiness Directive 2014-0278, dated December 19, 2014 (referred to after this as the Mandatory Continuing Airworthiness Information, or ``the MCAI''), to correct an unsafe condition for certain Airbus Model A320-212, -214, -232, and -233 airplanes. The MCAI states: An operator reported finding a crack during an inspection in accordance with the instructions of Airbus Alert Operators Transmission (AOT) A53N007-14. What was found, a 170 mm through- thickness crack in the pocket radius between frame 36 and 37 above stringer 6 on left hand (LH) side lap joint, was not the aim of the AOT inspection. Prior to this finding, the operator reported noise in the affected area during several weeks. This condition, if not detected and corrected, could lead to in- flight decompression of the aeroplane, possibly resulting in injury to occupants. To address this unsafe condition, Airbus published AOT A53N009- 14 to provide inspection and repair instructions to detect and prevent crack propagation. EASA decided to agree on a sampling inspection to determine whether additional aeroplanes need to be inspected. For the reasons described above, this [EASA] AD requires, for the selected aeroplanes, repetitive Low Frequency Eddy Current (LFEC) or High Frequency Eddy Current (HFEC) inspections of the pocket radii [for cracks] located between fuselage frames 35 and 40, above stringer 6 on both LH and right hand (RH) sides and, depending on findings, accomplishment of repair instructions. This [EASA] AD is considered an interim action and further [EASA] AD action may follow. 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-2015- 3148. Comments We gave the public the opportunity to participate in developing this AD. We have considered the comment received. The following presents the comment received on the NPRM and the FAA's response. Request To Withdraw the Proposed Rule Delta (DAL) requested that we withdraw the proposed rule. DAL commented that a review of the manufacturing records for the cracked skin panel noted rework in the discrepant area, which could have contributed to cracking. DAL also stated that the effectivity specified in Airbus AOT A53N009-14, dated December 17, 2014, was limited to airplanes fitted with reworked panels and manufactured with the same chemical milling process. DAL commented that, in addition, there were scratch-like indications near the cracked area which may have been due to the manufacturing process. DAL stated that further research is in work with nothing confirmed. DAL stated since the issuance of Airbus AOT A53N009-14, dated December 17, 2014, all 7 applicable airplanes mentioned in the proposed rule have completed the initial inspections with no findings. DAL stated that over half the airplanes were inspected from the inside using the HFEC inspection, which is capable of detecting very small cracks. DAL also commented that the inspection results have been provided to Airbus for review. DAL also stated that Airbus conducted a study that showed an undetected crack would not result in an explosive decompression but rather a partial opening of the skin causing flapping with a slow loss of cabin pressure. DAL noted that further testing is in work to determine what final action, if any, is required. DAL also stated that EASA is considering cancellation of AD 2014- 0278, dated December 19, 2014, pending the outcome of the investigations. DAL stated that the proposed rule is premature and should be cancelled based on the available data and recent inspection results. We disagree with the commenter's request. The EASA, as the State of Design Authority for Airbus products, has determined an unsafe conditions exists after conducting a risk analysis. We agree with the EASA's risk assessment and their decision to mitigate the risk by mandating the actions required in this AD. EASA has not determined that cancellation of AD 2014-0278, dated December 19, 2014, is warranted. However, if new information becomes available to justify revising or removing this AD, we will consider further rulemaking. We have not changed this AD in this regard. Conclusion We reviewed the relevant data, considered the comment received, and determined that air safety and the public interest require adopting this AD as proposed, except for 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. Related Service Information Under 1 CFR Part 51 We reviewed Airbus AOT A53N009-14, Rev 00, dated December 17, 2014. The service information describes procedures for repetitive inspections of the pocket radii located between fuselage frames 35 and 40, above stringer 6 on both the left- and right-hand sides, and repair if necessary. 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 1 airplane of U.S. registry. We estimate the following costs to comply with this AD: [[Page 27985]] Estimated Costs ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Cost on U.S. Action Labor cost Parts cost Cost per product operators ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Inspection....................... 3 work-hours x $85 $0 $255 per inspection $255 per inspection per hour = $255 per cycle. cycle. inspection cycle. ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- We have received no definitive data that will 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 We determined that 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 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. 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): 2017-12-13 Airbus: Amendment 39-18928; Docket No. FAA-2015-3148; Directorate Identifier 2014-NM-254-AD. (a) Effective Date This AD becomes effective July 25, 2017. (b) Affected ADs None. (c) Applicability This AD applies to the Airbus Model A320-212 airplane having manufacturer serial number (MSN) 1011; Airbus Model A320-214 airplanes having MSNs 1009, 1026 and 1030; the Airbus Model A320-232 airplane having MSN 0977; and Airbus Model A320-233 airplanes having MSNs 1007 and 1013; certificated in any category. (d) Subject Air Transport Association (ATA) of America Code 53, Fuselage. (e) Reason This AD was prompted by a report of a crack found during an inspection of the pocket radius of the fuselage frame. We are issuing this AD to detect and correct any cracking of the pocket radius, which could lead to in-flight decompression of the airplane and possible injury to the passengers. (f) Compliance Comply with this AD within the compliance times specified, unless already done. (g) Repetitive Inspections Within 750 flight cycles or 4 months, whichever occurs first after the effective date of this AD: Do a low frequency eddy current (LFEC) inspection or a high frequency eddy current (HFEC) inspection for cracking of the pocket radii located between fuselage frames 35 and 40, above stringer 6 on both the left- and right-hand sides, in accordance with the instructions of Airbus Alert Operators Transmission (AOT) A53N009-14, Rev 00, dated December 17, 2014. Repeat the inspection, thereafter, at intervals not to exceed the times specified in paragraphs (g)(1) and (g)(2) of this AD. (1) For the LFEC inspection performed on the outside: Repeat the inspection at intervals not to exceed 1,000 flight cycles. (2) For the HFEC inspection performed on the inside: Repeat the inspection at intervals not to exceed 2,000 flight cycles. (h) Corrective Action If, during any inspection required by paragraph (g) of this AD, any crack is found, before further flight, accomplish the repair in accordance with the instructions of Airbus AOT A53N009-14, Rev 00, dated December 17, 2014; except if the crack is beyond the structural repair manual limits as specified in Airbus AOT A53N009- 14, Rev 00, dated December 17, 2014, before further flight, repair using a method approved by the Manager, International Branch, ANM- 116, Transport Airplane Directorate, FAA; or the European Aviation Safety Agency (EASA); or Airbus's EASA Design Organization Approval (DOA). (i) Terminating Action Repair of an airplane as required by paragraph (h) of this AD terminates the repetitive inspections required by paragraph (g) of this AD for the repaired area only. (j) Other FAA AD Provisions The following provisions also apply to this AD: (1) Alternative Methods of Compliance (AMOCs): The Manager, International Branch, ANM-116, 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 the attention of the person identified in paragraph (k)(2) of this AD. Information may be emailed to: [email protected]. 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. (2) Contacting the Manufacturer: 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 EASA; or Airbus's EASA DOA. If approved by the DOA, the approval must include the DOA-authorized signature. [[Page 27986]] (k) Related Information (1) Refer to Mandatory Continuing Airworthiness Information (MCAI) EASA Airworthiness Directive 2014-0278, dated December 19, 2014, 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-2015-3148. (2) For more information about this AD, 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. (l) 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 this AD specifies otherwise. (i) Airbus Alert Operators Transmission A53N009-14, Rev 00, dated December 17, 2014. (ii) Reserved. (3) 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. (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 June 6, 2017. Michael Kaszycki, Acting Manager, Transport Airplane Directorate, Aircraft Certification Service. [FR Doc. 2017-12289 Filed 6-19-17; 8:45 am] BILLING CODE 4910-13-P
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(l) Other FAA AD Provisions Airworthiness Directive 2016–0079, dated DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION
The following provisions also apply to this April 21, 2016, for related information. This
AD: MCAI may be found in the AD docket on the Federal Aviation Administration
(1) Alternative Methods of Compliance Internet at http://www.regulations.gov by
(AMOCs): The Manager, International searching for and locating Docket No. FAA– 14 CFR Part 39
Branch, ANM–116, Transport Airplane 2016–9574.
Directorate, FAA, has the authority to [Docket No. FAA–2015–3148; Directorate
(2) For more information about this AD,
approve AMOCs for this AD, if requested Identifier 2014–NM–254–AD; Amendment
contact Dan Rodina, Aerospace Engineer, 39–18928; AD 2017–12–13]
using the procedures found in 14 CFR 39.19.
In accordance with 14 CFR 39.19, send your International Branch, ANM–116, Transport
Airplane Directorate, FAA, 1601 Lind RIN 2120–AA64
request to your principal inspector or local
Flight Standards District Office, as Avenue SW., Renton, WA 98057–3356;
appropriate. If sending information directly telephone: 425–227–2125; fax: 425–227– Airworthiness Directives; Airbus
to the manager of the International Branch, 1149. Airplanes
send it to the attention of the person (3) Service information identified in this AGENCY: Federal Aviation
identified in paragraph (m)(2) of this AD. AD that is not incorporated by reference is
Information may be emailed to: 9-ANM-116- Administration (FAA), Department of
available at the addresses specified in Transportation (DOT).
AMOC-REQUESTS@faa.gov. Before using
paragraphs (n)(3) and (n)(4) of this AD.
any approved AMOC, notify your appropriate ACTION: Final rule.
principal inspector, or lacking a principal (n) Material Incorporated by Reference
inspector, the manager of the local flight SUMMARY: We are adopting a new
standards district office/certificate holding (1) The Director of the Federal Register
airworthiness directive (AD) for certain
district office. approved the incorporation by reference
Airbus Model A320–212, –214, –232,
(2) Contacting the Manufacturer: For any (IBR) of the service information listed in this
and –233 airplanes. This AD was
requirement in this AD to obtain corrective paragraph under 5 U.S.C. 552(a) and 1 CFR
actions from a manufacturer, the action must part 51.
prompted by a report of a crack found
be accomplished using a method approved (2) You must use this service information
during an inspection of the pocket
by the Manager, International Branch, ANM– as applicable to do the actions required by radius of the fuselage frame. This AD
116, Transport Airplane Directorate, FAA; or this AD, unless this AD specifies otherwise. requires repetitive low frequency eddy
the European Aviation Safety Agency current inspections or repetitive high
(i) Airbus Service Bulletin A300–52–0180,
(EASA); or Airbus’s EASA Design frequency eddy current inspections of
Organization Approval (DOA). If approved by Revision 01, dated October 14, 2014.
(ii) Airbus Service Bulletin A300–52–6084, this area, and repair if necessary. The
the DOA, the approval must include the
DOA-authorized signature. Revision 01, dated October 16, 2014. repair terminates the repetitive
(3) Reporting Requirements: A federal (iii) Airbus Service Bulletin A310–52– inspections. We are issuing this AD to
agency may not conduct or sponsor, and a 2076, Revision 01, dated October 14, 2014. address the unsafe condition on these
person is not required to respond to, nor (3) For service information identified in products.
shall a person be subject to a penalty for this AD, contact Airbus SAS, Airworthiness DATES: This AD becomes effective July
failure to comply with a collection of Office—EAW, 1 Rond Point Maurice
information subject to the requirements of 25, 2017.
Bellonte, 31707 Blagnac Cedex, France; The Director of the Federal Register
the Paperwork Reduction Act unless that
collection of information displays a current telephone: +33 5 61 93 36 96; fax: +33 5 61 approved the incorporation by reference
valid OMB Control Number. The OMB 93 44 51; email: account.airworth-eas@ of a certain publication listed in this AD
Control Number for this information airbus.com; Internet: http://www.airbus.com. as of July 25, 2017.
collection is 2120–0056. Public reporting for (4) You may view this service information
ADDRESSES: For service information
this collection of information is estimated to at the FAA, Transport Airplane Directorate,
be approximately 5 minutes per response, identified in this final rule, contact
1601 Lind Avenue SW., Renton, WA. For
including the time for reviewing instructions, Airbus, Airworthiness Office—EIAS, 1
information on the availability of this
completing and reviewing the collection of Rond Point Maurice Bellonte, 31707
material at the FAA, call 425–227–1221.
information. All responses to this collection Blagnac Cedex, France; telephone +33 5
of information are mandatory. Comments (5) You may view this service information
61 93 36 96; fax +33 5 61 93 44 51; email
concerning the accuracy of this burden and that is incorporated by reference at the
National Archives and Records
account.airworth-eas@airbus.com;
suggestions for reducing the burden should Internet http://www.airbus.com. You
be directed to the FAA at: 800 Independence Administration (NARA). For information on
Ave. SW., Washington, DC 20591, Attn: the availability of this material at NARA, call
may view this referenced service
Information Collection Clearance Officer, 202–741–6030, or go to: http:// information at the FAA, Transport
AES–200. www.archives.gov/federal-register/cfr/ibr- Airplane Directorate, 1601 Lind Avenue
(4) Required for Compliance (RC): If any locations.html. SW., Renton, WA. For information on
service information contains procedures or the availability of this material at the
tests that are identified as RC, those Issued in Renton, Washington, on June 2, FAA, call 425–227–1221. It is also
procedures and tests must be done to comply 2017. available on the Internet at http://
with this AD; any procedures or tests that are Michael Kaszycki, www.regulations.gov by searching for
not identified as RC are recommended. Those
procedures and tests that are not identified Acting Manager, Transport Airplane and locating Docket No. FAA–2015–
as RC may be deviated from using accepted Directorate, Aircraft Certification Service. 3148.
methods in accordance with the operator’s [FR Doc. 2017–12286 Filed 6–19–17; 8:45 am]
Examining the AD Docket
maintenance or inspection program without BILLING CODE 4910–13–P
obtaining approval of an AMOC, provided You may examine the AD docket on
asabaliauskas on DSKBBXCHB2PROD with RULES
the procedures and tests identified as RC can the Internet at http://
be done and the airplane can be put back in www.regulations.gov by searching for
an airworthy condition. Any substitutions or and locating Docket No. FAA–2015–
changes to procedures or tests identified as 3148; or in person at the Docket
RC require approval of an AMOC.
Management Facility between 9 a.m.
(m) Related Information and 5 p.m., Monday through Friday,
(1) Refer to Mandatory Continuing except Federal holidays. The AD docket
Airworthiness Information (MCAI) EASA contains this AD, the regulatory
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evaluation, any comments received, and radii [for cracks] located between fuselage DAL also stated that EASA is
other information. The street address for frames 35 and 40, above stringer 6 on both considering cancellation of AD 2014–
the Docket Office (telephone 800–647– LH and right hand (RH) sides and, depending 0278, dated December 19, 2014, pending
5527) is Docket Management Facility, on findings, accomplishment of repair the outcome of the investigations.
instructions.
U.S. Department of Transportation, This [EASA] AD is considered an interim DAL stated that the proposed rule is
Docket Operations, M–30, West action and further [EASA] AD action may premature and should be cancelled
Building Ground Floor, Room W12–140, follow. based on the available data and recent
1200 New Jersey Avenue SE., inspection results.
You may examine the MCAI in the
Washington, DC 20590. We disagree with the commenter’s
AD docket on the Internet at http://
FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: request. The EASA, as the State of
www.regulations.gov by searching for
Sanjay Ralhan, Aerospace Engineer, and locating Docket No. FAA–2015– Design Authority for Airbus products,
International Branch, ANM–116, 3148. has determined an unsafe conditions
Transport Airplane Directorate, FAA, exists after conducting a risk analysis.
1601 Lind Avenue SW., Renton, WA Comments We agree with the EASA’s risk
98057–3356; telephone 425–227–1405; We gave the public the opportunity to assessment and their decision to
fax 425–227–1149. participate in developing this AD. We mitigate the risk by mandating the
SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: have considered the comment received. actions required in this AD. EASA has
Discussion The following presents the comment not determined that cancellation of AD
received on the NPRM and the FAA’s 2014–0278, dated December 19, 2014, is
We issued a notice of proposed response. warranted. However, if new information
rulemaking (NPRM) to amend 14 CFR becomes available to justify revising or
part 39 by adding an AD that would Request To Withdraw the Proposed
removing this AD, we will consider
apply to Airbus Model A320–212, –214, Rule
further rulemaking. We have not
–232, and –233 airplanes. The NPRM Delta (DAL) requested that we changed this AD in this regard.
published in the Federal Register on withdraw the proposed rule. DAL
August 27, 2015 (80 FR 51968) (‘‘the commented that a review of the Conclusion
NPRM’’). manufacturing records for the cracked We reviewed the relevant data,
The European Aviation Safety Agency skin panel noted rework in the considered the comment received, and
(EASA), which is the Technical Agent discrepant area, which could have determined that air safety and the
for the Member States of the European contributed to cracking. DAL also stated public interest require adopting this AD
Union, has issued EASA Airworthiness that the effectivity specified in Airbus as proposed, except for minor editorial
Directive 2014–0278, dated December AOT A53N009–14, dated December 17, changes. We have determined that these
19, 2014 (referred to after this as the 2014, was limited to airplanes fitted minor changes:
Mandatory Continuing Airworthiness with reworked panels and manufactured
Information, or ‘‘the MCAI’’), to correct • Are consistent with the intent that
with the same chemical milling process. was proposed in the NPRM for
an unsafe condition for certain Airbus DAL commented that, in addition, there
Model A320–212, –214, –232, and –233 correcting the unsafe condition; and
were scratch-like indications near the
airplanes. The MCAI states: cracked area which may have been due • Do not add any additional burden
An operator reported finding a crack to the manufacturing process. DAL upon the public than was already
during an inspection in accordance with the stated that further research is in work proposed in the NPRM.
instructions of Airbus Alert Operators with nothing confirmed. Related Service Information Under 1
Transmission (AOT) A53N007–14. What was DAL stated since the issuance of CFR Part 51
found, a 170 mm through-thickness crack in Airbus AOT A53N009–14, dated
the pocket radius between frame 36 and 37 We reviewed Airbus AOT A53N009–
above stringer 6 on left hand (LH) side lap December 17, 2014, all 7 applicable
airplanes mentioned in the proposed 14, Rev 00, dated December 17, 2014.
joint, was not the aim of the AOT inspection.
Prior to this finding, the operator reported rule have completed the initial The service information describes
noise in the affected area during several inspections with no findings. DAL procedures for repetitive inspections of
weeks. stated that over half the airplanes were the pocket radii located between
This condition, if not detected and inspected from the inside using the fuselage frames 35 and 40, above
corrected, could lead to in-flight HFEC inspection, which is capable of stringer 6 on both the left- and right-
decompression of the aeroplane, possibly hand sides, and repair if necessary. This
resulting in injury to occupants.
detecting very small cracks. DAL also
commented that the inspection results service information is reasonably
To address this unsafe condition, Airbus
published AOT A53N009–14 to provide have been provided to Airbus for available because the interested parties
inspection and repair instructions to detect review. DAL also stated that Airbus have access to it through their normal
and prevent crack propagation. conducted a study that showed an course of business or by the means
EASA decided to agree on a sampling undetected crack would not result in an identified in the ADDRESSES section.
inspection to determine whether additional explosive decompression but rather a
aeroplanes need to be inspected. Costs of Compliance
partial opening of the skin causing
For the reasons described above, this We estimate that this AD affects 1
[EASA] AD requires, for the selected flapping with a slow loss of cabin
aeroplanes, repetitive Low Frequency Eddy pressure. DAL noted that further testing airplane of U.S. registry.
asabaliauskas on DSKBBXCHB2PROD with RULES
Current (LFEC) or High Frequency Eddy is in work to determine what final We estimate the following costs to
Current (HFEC) inspections of the pocket action, if any, is required. comply with this AD:
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ESTIMATED COSTS
Cost per Cost on U.S.
Action Labor cost Parts cost product operators
Inspection ...................... 3 work-hours × $85 per hour = $255 per inspec- $0 $255 per inspection $255 per inspection
tion cycle. cycle. cycle.
We have received no definitive data Adoption of the Amendment instructions of Airbus Alert Operators
that will enable us to provide cost Transmission (AOT) A53N009–14, Rev 00,
Accordingly, under the authority dated December 17, 2014. Repeat the
estimates for the on-condition actions delegated to me by the Administrator, inspection, thereafter, at intervals not to
specified in this AD. the FAA amends 14 CFR part 39 as exceed the times specified in paragraphs
Authority for This Rulemaking follows: (g)(1) and (g)(2) of this AD.
(1) For the LFEC inspection performed on
Title 49 of the United States Code PART 39—AIRWORTHINESS the outside: Repeat the inspection at intervals
specifies the FAA’s authority to issue DIRECTIVES not to exceed 1,000 flight cycles.
rules on aviation safety. Subtitle I, (2) For the HFEC inspection performed on
section 106, describes the authority of ■ 1. The authority citation for part 39 the inside: Repeat the inspection at intervals
the FAA Administrator. ‘‘Subtitle VII: continues to read as follows: not to exceed 2,000 flight cycles.
Aviation Programs,’’ describes in more Authority: 49 U.S.C. 106(g), 40113, 44701. (h) Corrective Action
detail the scope of the Agency’s If, during any inspection required by
authority. § 39.13 [Amended]
paragraph (g) of this AD, any crack is found,
We are issuing this rulemaking under ■ 2. The FAA amends § 39.13 by adding before further flight, accomplish the repair in
the authority described in ‘‘Subtitle VII, the following new airworthiness accordance with the instructions of Airbus
Part A, Subpart III, Section 44701: directive (AD): AOT A53N009–14, Rev 00, dated December
General requirements.’’ Under that 17, 2014; except if the crack is beyond the
2017–12–13 Airbus: Amendment 39–18928; structural repair manual limits as specified in
section, Congress charges the FAA with Docket No. FAA–2015–3148; Directorate Airbus AOT A53N009–14, Rev 00, dated
promoting safe flight of civil aircraft in Identifier 2014–NM–254–AD. December 17, 2014, before further flight,
air commerce by prescribing regulations (a) Effective Date repair using a method approved by the
for practices, methods, and procedures Manager, International Branch, ANM–116,
the Administrator finds necessary for This AD becomes effective July 25, 2017. Transport Airplane Directorate, FAA; or the
safety in air commerce. This regulation (b) Affected ADs European Aviation Safety Agency (EASA); or
is within the scope of that authority Airbus’s EASA Design Organization
None.
because it addresses an unsafe condition Approval (DOA).
(c) Applicability
that is likely to exist or develop on (i) Terminating Action
products identified in this rulemaking This AD applies to the Airbus Model
Repair of an airplane as required by
action. A320–212 airplane having manufacturer
paragraph (h) of this AD terminates the
serial number (MSN) 1011; Airbus Model
repetitive inspections required by paragraph
Regulatory Findings A320–214 airplanes having MSNs 1009, 1026
(g) of this AD for the repaired area only.
and 1030; the Airbus Model A320–232
We determined that this AD will not airplane having MSN 0977; and Airbus (j) Other FAA AD Provisions
have federalism implications under Model A320–233 airplanes having MSNs The following provisions also apply to this
Executive Order 13132. This AD will 1007 and 1013; certificated in any category. AD:
not have a substantial direct effect on (d) Subject (1) Alternative Methods of Compliance
the States, on the relationship between (AMOCs): The Manager, International
Air Transport Association (ATA) of
the national government and the States, Branch, ANM–116, FAA, has the authority to
America Code 53, Fuselage.
or on the distribution of power and approve AMOCs for this AD, if requested
responsibilities among the various (e) Reason using the procedures found in 14 CFR 39.19.
levels of government. This AD was prompted by a report of a In accordance with 14 CFR 39.19, send your
crack found during an inspection of the request to your principal inspector or local
For the reasons discussed above, I
pocket radius of the fuselage frame. We are Flight Standards District Office, as
certify that this AD: appropriate. If sending information directly
issuing this AD to detect and correct any
1. Is not a ‘‘significant regulatory cracking of the pocket radius, which could to the International Branch, send it to the
action’’ under Executive Order 12866; lead to in-flight decompression of the attention of the person identified in
2. Is not a ‘‘significant rule’’ under the airplane and possible injury to the paragraph (k)(2) of this AD. Information may
passengers. be emailed to: 9-ANM-116-AMOC-
DOT Regulatory Policies and Procedures
REQUESTS@faa.gov. Before using any
(44 FR 11034, February 26, 1979); (f) Compliance approved AMOC, notify your appropriate
3. Will not affect intrastate aviation in Comply with this AD within the principal inspector, or lacking a principal
Alaska; and compliance times specified, unless already inspector, the manager of the local flight
4. Will not have a significant done. standards district office/certificate holding
economic impact, positive or negative, district office.
asabaliauskas on DSKBBXCHB2PROD with RULES
(g) Repetitive Inspections (2) Contacting the Manufacturer: For any
on a substantial number of small entities
under the criteria of the Regulatory Within 750 flight cycles or 4 months, requirement in this AD to obtain corrective
whichever occurs first after the effective date actions from a manufacturer, the action must
Flexibility Act. be accomplished using a method approved
of this AD: Do a low frequency eddy current
List of Subjects in 14 CFR Part 39 (LFEC) inspection or a high frequency eddy by the Manager, International Branch, ANM–
current (HFEC) inspection for cracking of the 116, Transport Airplane Directorate, FAA; or
Air transportation, Aircraft, Aviation pocket radii located between fuselage frames the EASA; or Airbus’s EASA DOA. If
safety, Incorporation by reference, 35 and 40, above stringer 6 on both the left- approved by the DOA, the approval must
Safety. and right-hand sides, in accordance with the include the DOA-authorized signature.
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![27986 Federal Register / Vol. 82, No. 117 / Tuesday, June 20, 2017 / Rules and Regulations
(k) Related Information SUMMARY: This action modifies one jet Subtitle I, Section 106 describes the
(1) Refer to Mandatory Continuing route (J–25) and five VHF authority of the FAA Administrator.
Airworthiness Information (MCAI) EASA Omnidirectional Range (VOR) Federal Subtitle VII, Aviation Programs,
Airworthiness Directive 2014–0278, dated airways (V–55, V–82, V–161, V–218, describes in more detail the scope of the
December 19, 2014, for related information. and V–413), and establishes three Area agency’s authority. This rulemaking is
This MCAI may be found in the AD docket Navigation (RNAV) T-routes (T–330, T– promulgated under the authority
on the Internet at http://www.regulations.gov
354, and T–383) in the northcentral described in Subtitle VII, Part A,
by searching for and locating Docket No.
FAA–2015–3148. United States. The FAA is taking this Subpart I, Section 40103. Under that
(2) For more information about this AD, action due to the planned section, the FAA is charged with
contact Sanjay Ralhan, Aerospace Engineer, decommissioning of the Brainerd, MN prescribing regulations to assign the use
International Branch, ANM–116, Transport (BRD), VHF Omnidirectional Range/ of the airspace necessary to ensure the
Airplane Directorate, FAA, 1601 Lind Tactical Air Navigation (VORTAC) safety of aircraft and the efficient use of
Avenue SW., Renton, WA 98057–3356; navigation aid (NAVAID), which airspace. This regulation is within the
telephone 425–227–1405; fax 425–227–1149. provides navigation guidance for scope of that authority as it modifies the
(l) Material Incorporated by Reference portions of the ATS routes amended by NAS route structure as necessary to
(1) The Director of the Federal Register this action. The RNAV T-routes preserve the safe and efficient flow of
approved the incorporation by reference established by this action mitigate air traffic within the NAS.
(IBR) of the service information listed in this potential issues to the National Airspace History
paragraph under 5 U.S.C. 552(a) and 1 CFR System (NAS) route structure caused by
part 51. the Jet route and VOR Federal airway On January 19, 2017, the FAA
(2) You must use this service information amendments. This action enhances the published in the Federal Register a
as applicable to do the actions required by safe and efficient management of aircraft notice of proposed rulemaking (NPRM)
this AD, unless this AD specifies otherwise. (82 FR 6353), Docket No. FAA–2016–
operating within the NAS.
(i) Airbus Alert Operators Transmission 8944, to amend Jet route J–25; amend
A53N009–14, Rev 00, dated December 17, DATES: Effective date 0901 UTC, August
17, 2017. VOR Federal airways V–55, V–82, V–
2014.
(ii) Reserved. The Director of the Federal Register 161, V–218, and V–413; and establish
(3) For service information identified in approves this incorporation by reference RNAV T-routes T–330, T–354, and T–
this AD, contact Airbus, Airworthiness action under Title 1, Code of Federal 383 due to the planned
Office—EIAS, 1 Rond Point Maurice Regulations, part 51, subject to the decommissioning of the Brainerd
Bellonte, 31707 Blagnac Cedex, France; annual revision of FAA Order 7400.11 VORTAC. Interested parties were
telephone +33 5 61 93 36 96; fax +33 5 61
and publication of conforming invited to participate in this rulemaking
93 44 51; email account.airworth-eas@ effort by submitting written comments
airbus.com; Internet http://www.airbus.com. amendments.
on the proposal. One comment was
(4) You may view this service information ADDRESSES: FAA Order 7400.11A, received.
at the FAA, Transport Airplane Directorate, Airspace Designations and Reporting
1601 Lind Avenue SW., Renton, WA. For Points, and subsequent amendments can Discussion of Comments
information on the availability of this
be viewed online at http://www.faa.gov/ The commenter stated that the NPRM
material at the FAA, call 425–227–1221.
(5) You may view this service information air_traffic/publications/. For further listed only the regulatory body
that is incorporated by reference at the information, you can contact the [aeronautical] changes in the proposal
National Archives and Records Airspace Policy Group, Federal Aviation and that an additional study to be
Administration (NARA). For information on Administration, 800 Independence conducted was an environmental
the availability of this material at NARA, call Avenue SW., Washington, DC 20591; impact study. The commenter stated the
202–741–6030, or go to: http:// telephone: (202) 267–8783. The Order is only environmental concerns would be
www.archives.gov/federal-register/cfr/ibr- also available for inspection at the any potential for aircraft noise changes
locations.html.
National Archives and Records in the affected areas, due to the
Issued in Renton, Washington, on June 6, Administration (NARA). For changing routes, and the associated
2017. information on the availability of FAA impact to the local populace and/or
Michael Kaszycki, Order 7400.11A at NARA, call (202) wildlife, depending on the degree of the
Acting Manager, Transport Airplane 741–6030, or go to http:// changes. The FAA completed an
Directorate, Aircraft Certification Service. www.archives.gov/federal_register/ environmental review of the ATS route
[FR Doc. 2017–12289 Filed 6–19–17; 8:45 am] code_of_federal-regulations/ibr_ amendments and RNAV route
BILLING CODE 4910–13–P locations.html. establishments in this action and
FAA Order 7400.11, Airspace determined that this action qualifies for
Designations and Reporting Points, is categorical exclusion from further
DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION published yearly and effective on environmental impact review actions
September 15. under the National Environmental
Federal Aviation Administration FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Policy Act in accordance with FAA
Colby Abbott, Airspace Policy Group, Order 1050.1F, Environmental Impacts:
14 CFR Part 71 Office of Airspace Services, Federal Policies and Procedures, paragraph 5–
[Docket No. FAA–2016–8944; Airspace Aviation Administration, 800 6.5a. This airspace action is not
Docket No. 16–AGL–21] Independence Avenue SW., expected to cause any potentially
asabaliauskas on DSKBBXCHB2PROD with RULES
Washington, DC 20591; telephone: (202) significant environmental impacts and
Amendment of and Establishment of 267–8783. no extraordinary circumstances exist
Air Traffic Service (ATS) Routes; SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: that warrant preparation of an
Northcentral United States environmental assessment or
Authority for This Rulemaking environmental impact study.
AGENCY: Federal Aviation
Administration (FAA), DOT. The FAA’s authority to issue rules Jet routes are published in paragraph
regarding aviation safety is found in 2004, VOR Federal airways are
ACTION: Final rule.
Title 49 of the United States Code. published in paragraph 6010(a), and
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Document Created: 2017-06-20 02:20:48
Document Modified: 2017-06-20 02:20:48
| 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 becomes effective July 25, 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 27983 | |
| RIN Number | 2120-AA64 | |
| CFR Associated | Air Transportation; Aircraft; Aviation Safety; Incorporation by Reference and Safety |
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