82 FR 35644 - Airworthiness Directives; Airbus Airplanes

DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION
Federal Aviation Administration

Federal Register Volume 82, Issue 146 (August 1, 2017)

Page Range		35644-35647
FR Document		2017-15808

We are adopting a new airworthiness directive (AD) for certain Airbus Model A300 B4-600R series airplanes, Model A300 C4-605R Variant F airplanes, and Model A300 F4-600R series airplanes. This AD was prompted by the results of a full stress analysis of the lower area of a certain frame that revealed that a crack could occur in this area after a certain number of flight cycles. This AD requires an inspection of the lower area of a certain frame radius for cracking, and corrective action if necessary. We are issuing this AD to address the unsafe condition on these products.

Federal Register, Volume 82 Issue 146 (Tuesday, August 1, 2017)

[Federal Register Volume 82, Number 146 (Tuesday, August 1, 2017)]
[Rules and Regulations]
[Pages 35644-35647]
From the Federal Register Online [www.thefederalregister.org]
[FR Doc No: 2017-15808]

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DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION

Federal Aviation Administration

14 CFR Part 39

[Docket No. FAA-2016-9055; Directorate Identifier 2016-NM-071-AD;
Amendment 39-18977; AD 2017-15-17]
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 A300 B4-600R series airplanes, Model A300 C4-605R Variant
F airplanes, and Model A300 F4-600R series airplanes. This AD was
prompted by the results of a full stress analysis of the lower area of
a certain frame that revealed that a crack could occur in this area
after a certain number of flight cycles. This AD requires an inspection
of the lower area of a certain frame radius for cracking, and
corrective action if necessary. We are issuing this AD to address the
unsafe condition on these products.

DATES: This AD is effective September 5, 2017.
The Director of the Federal Register approved the incorporation by
reference of certain publications listed in this AD as of September 5,
2017.

ADDRESSES: For service information identified in this final rule,
contact Airbus SAS, Airworthiness Office--EAW, 1 Rond Point Maurice
Bellonte, 31707 Blagnac Cedex, France; telephone +33 5 61 93 36 96; fax
+33 5 61 93 44 51; email account.airworth-eas@airbus.com; 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-2016-
9055.

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-
9055; 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 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: Dan Rodina, Aerospace Engineer,
International Branch, ANM-116, Transport Airplane Directorate, FAA,
1601 Lind Avenue SW., Renton, WA 98057-3356; telephone 425-227-2125;
fax 425-227-1149.

SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION:

Discussion

We issued a supplemental notice of proposed rulemaking (SNPRM) to
amend 14 CFR part 39 by adding an AD that would apply to certain Airbus
Model A300 B4-600R series airplanes, Model A300 C4-605R Variant F
airplanes, and Model A300 F4-600R series airplanes. The SNPRM published
in the Federal Register on March 2, 2017 (82 FR 12314) (``the SNPRM'').
We preceded the SNPRM with a notice of proposed rulemaking (NPRM) that
published in the Federal Register on September 8, 2016 (81 FR 62026)
(``the NPRM''). The NPRM proposed to require an inspection of the lower
area of a certain frame radius for cracking, and corrective action if
necessary. The NPRM was prompted by the results of a full stress
analysis of the lower area of a certain frame that revealed a crack
could occur in the forward fitting lower radius of a certain frame
after a certain number of flight cycles. The SNPRM proposed to require
extending the area to be inspected for cracking and adding an
inspection for previously inspected airplanes. We are issuing this AD
to detect and correct cracking in the forward fitting lower radius of a
certain frame. Such cracking could reduce the structural integrity of
the fuselage.
The European Aviation Safety Agency (EASA), which is the Technical
Agent for the Member States of the European Union, has issued EASA AD
2016-0179, dated September 12, 2016 (referred to after this as the
Mandatory Continuing Airworthiness Information, or ``the

[[Page 35645]]

MCAI''), which superseded EASA AD 2016-0085, dated April 28, 2016. EASA
AD 2016-0085 was the MCAI referred to in the NPRM.
The MCAI was issued to correct an unsafe condition for certain
Airbus Model A300 B4-600R series airplanes, Model A300 C4-605R Variant
F airplanes, and Model A300 F4-600R series airplanes. The MCAI states:

Following a full stress analysis of the Frame (FR) 40 lower
area, supported by a Finite Element Model (FEM), of the post-mod
10221 configuration, it was demonstrated that, for the FR40 forward
fitting lower radius, a crack could occur after a certain amount of
flight cycles (FC).
This condition, if not detected and corrected, could reduce the
structural integrity of the fuselage.
To address this potential unsafe condition, Airbus established
that crack detection could be achieved through a special detailed
inspection (SDI) using a high frequency eddy current (HFEC) method,
and issued Alert Operators Transmission (AOT) A57W009-16 to provide
those inspection instructions.
Consequently, EASA issued AD 2016-0085 to require a one-time SDI
of the FR40 lower area and, depending on findings, accomplishment of
applicable corrective action(s).
Since that [EASA] AD was issued, further cracks were detected,
originating from the fastener hole, and, based on these findings, it
was determined that inspection area must be enlarged, and Airbus AOT
A57W009-16 Revision (Rev.) 01 was issued accordingly.
For the reasons described above, this [EASA] AD retains the
requirements of EASA AD 2016-0085, which is superseded, extends the
area of inspection, and requires an additional inspection for
aeroplanes previously inspected.
The one-time SDI for high cycle aeroplanes is intended to
mitigate the highest risks within the fleet. Airbus is currently
developing instructions for repetitive inspections that are likely
to be the subject of further [EASA] AD action.

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-2016-
9055.

Comments

We gave the public the opportunity to participate in developing
this AD. The following presents the comments received on the SNPRM and
the FAA's response to each comment.

Requests To Refer to New Service Information

FedEx and United Parcel Service (UPS) requested that the SNPRM be
revised to refer to a service bulletin that Airbus plans to release to
replace Airbus Alert Operators Transmission (AOT) A57W009-16, Rev 01,
including Appendices 1 and 2, dated July 13, 2016 (``AOT A57W009-16,
Rev 01''). AOT A57W009-16, Rev 01, was identified as the service
information to be used to accomplish the actions specified in the
SNPRM. UPS noted that the service bulletin would include information
based on in-service reports from operators who had accomplished the
inspection identified in AOT A57W009-16, Rev 01, and based on the
results of a full stress analysis of the frame (FR) 40 lower area.
Based on this information Airbus changed the initial inspection
compliance time from what was specified in AOT A57W009-16, Rev 01, and
established repetitive inspection intervals. FedEx and UPS both
mentioned that to reduce the number of alternative method of compliance
(AMOC) requests, the SNPRM should be revised to include the service
bulletin. UPS also noted that including the service information would
benefit the FAA because the FAA could avoid future rulemaking regarding
this issue.
We partially agree with the commenters' requests. After the SNPRM
was published, Airbus issued Service Bulletin A300-57-6120, dated April
28, 2017. However, instead of removing the reference to AOT A57W009-16,
Rev 01, in this AD, we have added paragraph (j) to this AD to allow
operators to do the required actions in accordance with the
Accomplishment Instructions of Service Bulletin A300-57-6120, dated
April 28, 2017. We have redesignated the subsequent paragraphs
accordingly.

Request To Revise Reporting Method

FedEx requested that paragraph (j) of the proposed AD (in the
SNPRM) be revised to provide flexibility regarding the method of
reporting inspection results to Airbus. FedEx stated that to utilize
the Airbus online reporting system would require substantial updates to
its information technology systems and personnel training; therefore,
it is not prepared to utilize the online reporting system at this time.
FedEx suggested that the older method of reporting be allowed until it
has the computer and personnel resources in place to utilize online
reporting.
We agree with the commenter's request. We have determined that
operators may use either the online or older reporting method. We have
revised paragraph (k) of this AD (paragraph (j) of the proposed AD (in
the SNPRM)) to allow operators to report inspection findings using the
online reporting system or submit the results to Airbus in accordance
with the instructions of Airbus Service Bulletin A300-57-6120, dated
April 28, 2017.

Conclusion

We reviewed the relevant data, considered the comments received,
and determined that air safety and the 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
SNPRM for correcting the unsafe condition; and
Do not add any additional burden upon the public than was
already proposed in the SNPRM.
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 Airbus AOT A57W009-16, Rev 01, including Appendices 1
and 2, dated July 13, 2016. This service information describes
procedures for a one-time inspection of the forward fitting lower
radius of FR 40 for cracking, and corrective action.
We have also reviewed Airbus Service Bulletin A300-57-6120, dated
April 28, 2017. This service information describes procedures for
repetitive inspections of the forward fitting lower radius of FR 40 for
cracking, and corrective action.
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 94 airplanes of U.S. registry.

[[Page 35646]]

We estimate the following costs to comply with this AD:

Estimated Costs
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Cost per Cost on U.S.
Action Labor cost Parts cost product operators
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Inspection......................... 3 work-hours x $85 per hour $0 $255 $23,970
= $255.
Report............................. 1 work-hour x $85 per hour 0 85 7,990
= $85.
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

We have received no definitive data that would enable us to provide
cost estimates for the on-condition actions specified in this AD.

Paperwork Reduction Act

A federal agency may not conduct or sponsor, and a person is not
required to respond to, nor shall a person be subject to penalty for
failure to comply with a collection of information subject to the
requirements of the Paperwork Reduction Act unless that collection of
information displays a current valid OMB control number. The control
number for the collection of information required by this AD is 2120-
0056. The paperwork cost associated with this AD has been detailed in
the Costs of Compliance section of this document and includes time for
reviewing instructions, as well as completing and reviewing the
collection of information. Therefore, all reporting associated with
this AD is mandatory. Comments concerning the accuracy of this burden
and suggestions for reducing the burden should be directed to the FAA
at 800 Independence Ave. SW., Washington, DC 20591, ATTN: Information
Collection Clearance Officer, AES-200.

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):

2017-15-17 Airbus: Amendment 39-18977; Docket No. FAA-2016-9055;
Directorate Identifier 2016-NM-071-AD.

(a) Effective Date

This AD is effective September 5, 2017.

(b) Affected ADs

None.

This AD applies to Airbus airplanes, certificated in any
category, identified in paragraphs (c)(1), (c)(2), and (c)(3) of
this AD, on which Airbus Modification 10221 was embodied in
production.
(1) Airbus Model A300 B4-605R and B4-622R airplanes.
(2) Airbus Model A300 C4-605R Variant F airplanes.
(3) Airbus Model A300 F4-605R and F4-622R airplanes.

(d) Subject

Air Transport Association (ATA) of America Code 57, Wings.

(e) Reason

This AD was prompted by the detection of cracking that
originated from the fastener holes in the forward fitting lower
radius of frame (FR) 40. We are issuing this AD to detect and
correct cracking in the forward fitting lower radius of FR 40. Such
cracking could reduce the structural integrity of the fuselage.

(f) Compliance

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

(g) Inspection

At the later of the compliance times specified in paragraphs
(g)(1) and (g)(2) of this AD, do a high frequency eddy current
(HFEC) inspection of the lower area of the FR 40 radius for
cracking, in accordance with paragraph 4.2.2 in Airbus Alert
Operators Transmission (AOT) A57W009-16, Rev 01, including
Appendices 1 and 2, dated July 13, 2016.
(1) Prior to exceeding 19,000 total flight cycles or 41,000
total flight hours since the airplane's first flight, whichever
occurs first.
(2) Within 300 flight cycles or 630 flight hours after the
effective date of this AD, whichever occurs first.

(h) Additional Inspection for Previously Inspected Airplanes

For airplanes on which the HFEC inspection required by paragraph
(g) of this AD was accomplished before the effective date of this AD
using the procedures in Airbus AOT A57W009-16, Rev 00, including
Appendices 1 and 2, dated February 25, 2016: Within 300 flight
cycles or 630 flight hours after the effective date of this AD,
whichever occurs first, do a one-time additional HFEC inspection of
the lower area of the FR 40 radius for cracking, in accordance with
paragraph 4.2.2 in Airbus

[[Page 35647]]

AOT A57W009-16, Rev 01, including Appendices 1 and 2, dated July 13,
2016.

(i) Corrective Action

If any crack is found during the inspection required by
paragraph (g) or (h) of this AD: Before further flight, do the
applicable corrective actions in accordance with the procedures in
Airbus AOT A57W009-16, Rev 01, including Appendices 1 and 2, dated
July 13, 2016. Where AOT A57W009-16, Rev 01, including Appendices 1
and 2, dated July 13, 2016, specifies to contact Airbus for
appropriate action, accomplish the corrective actions in accordance
with the procedures specified in paragraph (m)(2) of this AD.

(j) Optional Service Information for Accomplishing Required Actions

Accomplishment of the actions required by paragraphs (g), (h),
and (i) of this AD, in accordance with, and at the compliance times
specified in, the Accomplishment Instructions of Airbus Service
Bulletin A300-57-6120, dated April 28, 2017, is acceptable for
compliance with the requirements of those paragraphs.

(k) Reporting Requirement

Submit a report of all findings (both positive and negative)
from the inspection required by paragraph (g) of this AD to Airbus
Customer Services through TechRequest on Airbus World (https://w3.airbus.com/) by selecting Engineering Domain and ATA 57-10; or
submit the results to Airbus in accordance with the procedures in
Airbus Service Bulletin A300-57-6120, dated April 28, 2017.
(1) For airplanes on which the inspection specified in paragraph
(g) of this AD is accomplished on or after the effective date of
this AD: Submit the report within 30 days after performing the
inspection.
(2) For airplanes on which the inspection specified in paragraph
(g) of this AD is accomplished before the effective date of this AD:
Submit the report within 30 days after the effective date of this
AD.

(l) Credit for Previous Actions

This paragraph provides credit for the action required by
paragraph (g) of this AD, if that action was done before the
effective date of this AD using Airbus AOT A57W009-16, Rev 00,
including Appendices 1 and 2, dated February 25, 2016, provided the
inspection required by paragraph (h) of this AD is accomplished.

(m) 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 (n)(2) of this AD. Information may be emailed to: 9-ANM-116-AMOC-REQUESTS@faa.gov.
(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
European Aviation Safety Agency (EASA); or Airbus's EASA Design
Organization Approval (DOA). If approved by the DOA, the approval
must include the DOA-authorized signature.
(3) Reporting Requirements: A federal agency may not conduct or
sponsor, and a person is not required to respond to, nor shall a
person be subject to a penalty for failure to comply with a
collection of information subject to the requirements of the
Paperwork Reduction Act unless that collection of information
displays a current valid OMB Control Number. The OMB Control Number
for this information collection is 2120-0056. Public reporting for
this collection of information is estimated to be approximately 5
minutes per response, including the time for reviewing instructions,
completing and reviewing the collection of information. All
responses to this collection of information are mandatory. Comments
concerning the accuracy of this burden and suggestions for reducing
the burden should be directed to the FAA at: 800 Independence Ave.
SW., Washington, DC 20591, Attn: Information Collection Clearance
Officer, AES-200.

(n) Related Information

(1) Refer to Mandatory Continuing Airworthiness Information
(MCAI) EASA AD 2016-0179, dated September 12, 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-2016-9055.
(2) For more information about this AD, contact Dan Rodina,
Aerospace Engineer, International Branch, ANM-116, FAA, 1601 Lind
Avenue SW., Renton, WA 98057-3356; telephone 425-227-2125; fax 425-
227-1149.

(o) 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 A57W009-16, Rev 01,
including Appendices 1 and 2, dated July 13, 2016.
(ii) Airbus Service Bulletin A300-57-6120, dated April 28, 2017.
(3) For service information identified in this AD, contact
Airbus SAS, Airworthiness Office--EAW, 1 Rond Point Maurice
Bellonte, 31707 Blagnac Cedex, France; telephone +33 5 61 93 36 96;
fax +33 5 61 93 44 51; email account.airworth-eas@airbus.com;
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 July 19, 2017.
Victor Wicklund,
Acting Manager, Transport Airplane Directorate, Aircraft Certification
Service.
[FR Doc. 2017-15808 Filed 7-31-17; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE 4910-13-P

35644 Federal Register / Vol. 82, No. 146 / Tuesday, August 1, 2017 / Rules and Regulations

modification, or alteration required by this Issued in Renton, Washington, on July 14, Examining the AD Docket
AD if it is approved by the Boeing 2017.
Commercial Airplanes Organization You may examine the AD docket on
Dionne Palermo,
Designation Authorization (ODA) that has the Internet at http://
Acting Manager, Transport Airplane www.regulations.gov by searching for
been authorized by the Manager, Seattle
Directorate, Aircraft Certification Service. and locating Docket No. FAA–2016–
ACO, to make those findings. To be
approved, the repair method, modification [FR Doc. 2017–15486 Filed 7–31–17; 8:45 am] 9055; or in person at the Docket
deviation, or alteration deviation must meet BILLING CODE 4910–13–P Management Facility between 9 a.m.
the certification basis of the airplane, and the and 5 p.m., Monday through Friday,
approval must specifically refer to this AD. except Federal holidays. The AD docket
(4) For service information that contains DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION contains this AD, the regulatory
steps that are labeled as Required for
evaluation, any comments received, and
Compliance (RC), the provisions of Federal Aviation Administration
paragraphs (i)(4)(i) and (i)(4)(ii) of this AD other information. The street address for
apply. the Docket Office (telephone 800–647–
14 CFR Part 39
(i) The steps labeled as RC, including 5527) is Docket Management Facility,
substeps under an RC step and any figures U.S. Department of Transportation,
[Docket No. FAA–2016–9055; Directorate
identified in an RC step, must be done to Identifier 2016–NM–071–AD; Amendment Docket Operations, M–30, West
comply with the AD. An AMOC is required 39–18977; AD 2017–15–17] Building Ground Floor, Room W12–140,
for any deviations to RC steps, including 1200 New Jersey Avenue SE.,
substeps and identified figures. Washington, DC 20590.
(ii) Steps not labeled as RC may be RIN 2120–AA64
deviated from using accepted methods in FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Dan
accordance with the operator’s maintenance Airworthiness Directives; Airbus Rodina, Aerospace Engineer,
or inspection program without obtaining Airplanes International Branch, ANM–116,
approval of an AMOC, provided the RC steps, Transport Airplane Directorate, FAA,
AGENCY: Federal Aviation
including substeps and identified figures, can 1601 Lind Avenue SW., Renton, WA
still be done as specified, and the airplane Administration (FAA), Department of
98057–3356; telephone 425–227–2125;
can be put back in an airworthy condition. Transportation (DOT).
fax 425–227–1149.
ACTION: Final rule.
(j) Related Information SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION:
(1) For more information about this AD, SUMMARY: We are adopting a new Discussion
contact Kelly McGuckin, Aerospace airworthiness directive (AD) for certain
Engineer, Systems and Equipment Branch, We issued a supplemental notice of
Airbus Model A300 B4–600R series
ANM–130S, FAA, Seattle ACO, 1601 Lind proposed rulemaking (SNPRM) to
airplanes, Model A300 C4–605R Variant
Avenue SW., Renton, WA 98057–3356; amend 14 CFR part 39 by adding an AD
phone: 425–917–6490; fax: 425–917–6590;
F airplanes, and Model A300 F4–600R
that would apply to certain Airbus
email: kelly.mcguckin@faa.gov. series airplanes. This AD was prompted
Model A300 B4–600R series airplanes,
(2) Service information identified in this by the results of a full stress analysis of
Model A300 C4–605R Variant F
AD that is not incorporated by reference is the lower area of a certain frame that
airplanes, and Model A300 F4–600R
available at the addresses specified in revealed that a crack could occur in this
paragraphs (k)(3) and (k)(4) of this AD.
series airplanes. The SNPRM published
area after a certain number of flight
in the Federal Register on March 2,
(k) Material Incorporated by Reference cycles. This AD requires an inspection
2017 (82 FR 12314) (‘‘the SNPRM’’). We
of the lower area of a certain frame
(1) The Director of the Federal Register preceded the SNPRM with a notice of
approved the incorporation by reference
radius for cracking, and corrective
proposed rulemaking (NPRM) that
(IBR) of the service information listed in this action if necessary. We are issuing this
published in the Federal Register on
paragraph under 5 U.S.C. 552(a) and 1 CFR AD to address the unsafe condition on
September 8, 2016 (81 FR 62026) (‘‘the
part 51. these products.
NPRM’’). The NPRM proposed to
(2) You must use this service information DATES: This AD is effective September 5,
as applicable to do the actions required by
require an inspection of the lower area
2017. of a certain frame radius for cracking,
this AD, unless the AD specifies otherwise. The Director of the Federal Register
(i) Boeing Alert Service Bulletin B787– and corrective action if necessary. The
81205–SB290031–00, Issue 001, dated March
approved the incorporation by reference NPRM was prompted by the results of
25, 2016. of certain publications listed in this AD a full stress analysis of the lower area of
(ii) Reserved. as of September 5, 2017. a certain frame that revealed a crack
(3) For service information identified in ADDRESSES: For service information could occur in the forward fitting lower
this AD, contact Boeing Commercial identified in this final rule, contact radius of a certain frame after a certain
Airplanes, Attention: Contractual & Data Airbus SAS, Airworthiness Office— number of flight cycles. The SNPRM
Services (C&DS), 2600 Westminster Blvd., EAW, 1 Rond Point Maurice Bellonte,
MC 110–SK57, Seal Beach, CA 90740;
proposed to require extending the area
telephone 562–797–1717; Internet https://
31707 Blagnac Cedex, France; telephone to be inspected for cracking and adding
www.myboeingfleet.com. +33 5 61 93 36 96; fax +33 5 61 93 44 an inspection for previously inspected
(4) You may view this service information 51; email account.airworth-eas@ airplanes. We are issuing this AD to
at the FAA, Transport Airplane Directorate, airbus.com; Internet http:// detect and correct cracking in the
1601 Lind Avenue SW., Renton, WA. For www.airbus.com. You may view this forward fitting lower radius of a certain
information on the availability of this referenced service information at the frame. Such cracking could reduce the
material at the FAA, call 425–227–1221. FAA, Transport Airplane Directorate, structural integrity of the fuselage.
(5) You may view this service information
mstockstill on DSK30JT082PROD with RULES

1601 Lind Avenue SW., Renton, WA. The European Aviation Safety Agency
that is incorporated by reference at the For information on the availability of (EASA), which is the Technical Agent
National Archives and Records
Administration (NARA). For information on
this material at the FAA, call 425–227– for the Member States of the European
the availability of this material at NARA, call 1221. It is also available on the Internet Union, has issued EASA AD 2016–0179,
202–741–6030, or go to: http:// at http://www.regulations.gov by dated September 12, 2016 (referred to
www.archives.gov/federal-register/cfr/ibr- searching for and locating Docket No. after this as the Mandatory Continuing
locations.html. FAA–2016–9055. Airworthiness Information, or ‘‘the

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MCAI’’), which superseded EASA AD Requests To Refer to New Service FedEx suggested that the older method
2016–0085, dated April 28, 2016. EASA Information of reporting be allowed until it has the
AD 2016–0085 was the MCAI referred to FedEx and United Parcel Service computer and personnel resources in
in the NPRM. (UPS) requested that the SNPRM be place to utilize online reporting.
The MCAI was issued to correct an revised to refer to a service bulletin that We agree with the commenter’s
unsafe condition for certain Airbus Airbus plans to release to replace Airbus request. We have determined that
Model A300 B4–600R series airplanes, Alert Operators Transmission (AOT) operators may use either the online or
Model A300 C4–605R Variant F A57W009–16, Rev 01, including older reporting method. We have
airplanes, and Model A300 F4–600R Appendices 1 and 2, dated July 13, 2016 revised paragraph (k) of this AD
series airplanes. The MCAI states: (‘‘AOT A57W009–16, Rev 01’’). AOT (paragraph (j) of the proposed AD (in the
A57W009–16, Rev 01, was identified as SNPRM)) to allow operators to report
Following a full stress analysis of the
the service information to be used to inspection findings using the online
Frame (FR) 40 lower area, supported by a
Finite Element Model (FEM), of the post-mod accomplish the actions specified in the reporting system or submit the results to
10221 configuration, it was demonstrated SNPRM. UPS noted that the service Airbus in accordance with the
that, for the FR40 forward fitting lower bulletin would include information instructions of Airbus Service Bulletin
radius, a crack could occur after a certain based on in-service reports from A300–57–6120, dated April 28, 2017.
amount of flight cycles (FC). operators who had accomplished the Conclusion
This condition, if not detected and inspection identified in AOT
corrected, could reduce the structural A57W009–16, Rev 01, and based on the We reviewed the relevant data,
integrity of the fuselage. results of a full stress analysis of the considered the comments received, and
To address this potential unsafe condition, frame (FR) 40 lower area. Based on this determined that air safety and the
Airbus established that crack detection could information Airbus changed the initial public interest require adopting this AD
be achieved through a special detailed with the changes described previously
inspection compliance time from what
inspection (SDI) using a high frequency eddy
was specified in AOT A57W009–16, and minor editorial changes. We have
current (HFEC) method, and issued Alert
Operators Transmission (AOT) A57W009–16 Rev 01, and established repetitive determined that these minor changes:
to provide those inspection instructions. inspection intervals. FedEx and UPS • Are consistent with the intent that
Consequently, EASA issued AD 2016–0085 both mentioned that to reduce the was proposed in the SNPRM for
to require a one-time SDI of the FR40 lower number of alternative method of correcting the unsafe condition; and
area and, depending on findings, compliance (AMOC) requests, the • Do not add any additional burden
accomplishment of applicable corrective SNPRM should be revised to include the upon the public than was already
action(s). service bulletin. UPS also noted that proposed in the SNPRM.
Since that [EASA] AD was issued, further including the service information would We also determined that these
cracks were detected, originating from the benefit the FAA because the FAA could
fastener hole, and, based on these findings, changes will not increase the economic
avoid future rulemaking regarding this burden on any operator or increase the
it was determined that inspection area must issue.
be enlarged, and Airbus AOT A57W009–16 scope of this AD.
We partially agree with the
Revision (Rev.) 01 was issued accordingly. commenters’ requests. After the SNPRM Related Service Information Under 1
For the reasons described above, this
was published, Airbus issued Service CFR Part 51
[EASA] AD retains the requirements of EASA
AD 2016–0085, which is superseded, extends Bulletin A300–57–6120, dated April 28,
We reviewed Airbus AOT A57W009–
the area of inspection, and requires an 2017. However, instead of removing the
16, Rev 01, including Appendices 1 and
additional inspection for aeroplanes reference to AOT A57W009–16, Rev 01,
2, dated July 13, 2016. This service
previously inspected. in this AD, we have added paragraph (j)
information describes procedures for a
The one-time SDI for high cycle aeroplanes to this AD to allow operators to do the
one-time inspection of the forward
is intended to mitigate the highest risks required actions in accordance with the
fitting lower radius of FR 40 for
within the fleet. Airbus is currently Accomplishment Instructions of Service
developing instructions for repetitive cracking, and corrective action.
Bulletin A300–57–6120, dated April 28,
inspections that are likely to be the subject 2017. We have redesignated the We have also reviewed Airbus Service
of further [EASA] AD action. subsequent paragraphs accordingly. Bulletin A300–57–6120, dated April 28,
2017. This service information describes
You may examine the MCAI in the Request To Revise Reporting Method procedures for repetitive inspections of
AD docket on the Internet at http:// FedEx requested that paragraph (j) of the forward fitting lower radius of FR 40
www.regulations.gov by searching for the proposed AD (in the SNPRM) be for cracking, and corrective action.
and locating Docket No. FAA–2016– revised to provide flexibility regarding This service information is reasonably
9055. the method of reporting inspection available because the interested parties
Comments results to Airbus. FedEx stated that to have access to it through their normal
utilize the Airbus online reporting course of business or by the means
We gave the public the opportunity to system would require substantial identified in the ADDRESSES section.
participate in developing this AD. The updates to its information technology
Costs of Compliance
following presents the comments systems and personnel training;
received on the SNPRM and the FAA’s therefore, it is not prepared to utilize the We estimate that this AD affects 94
response to each comment. online reporting system at this time. airplanes of U.S. registry.
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35646 Federal Register / Vol. 82, No. 146 / Tuesday, August 1, 2017 / Rules and Regulations

We estimate the following costs to
comply with this AD:

ESTIMATED COSTS
Cost per Cost on U.S.
Action Labor cost Parts cost product operators

Inspection ................................ 3 work-hours × $85 per hour = $255 ..................................... $0 $255 $23,970
Report ..................................... 1 work-hour × $85 per hour = $85 ......................................... 0 85 7,990

We have received no definitive data Regulatory Findings (c) Applicability
that would enable us to provide cost This AD applies to Airbus airplanes,
We determined that this AD will not
estimates for the on-condition actions certificated in any category, identified in
have federalism implications under
specified in this AD. paragraphs (c)(1), (c)(2), and (c)(3) of this AD,
Executive Order 13132. This AD will on which Airbus Modification 10221 was
Paperwork Reduction Act not have a substantial direct effect on embodied in production.
the States, on the relationship between (1) Airbus Model A300 B4–605R and B4–
A federal agency may not conduct or the national government and the States, 622R airplanes.
sponsor, and a person is not required to or on the distribution of power and (2) Airbus Model A300 C4–605R Variant F
respond to, nor shall a person be subject responsibilities among the various airplanes.
to penalty for failure to comply with a levels of government. (3) Airbus Model A300 F4–605R and F4–
collection of information subject to the For the reasons discussed above, I
622R airplanes.
requirements of the Paperwork certify that this AD: (d) Subject
Reduction Act unless that collection of
information displays a current valid 1. Is not a ‘‘significant regulatory Air Transport Association (ATA) of
action’’ under Executive Order 12866; America Code 57, Wings.
OMB control number. The control
number for the collection of information 2. Is not a ‘‘significant rule’’ under the (e) Reason
required by this AD is 2120–0056. The DOT Regulatory Policies and Procedures This AD was prompted by the detection of
paperwork cost associated with this AD (44 FR 11034, February 26, 1979); cracking that originated from the fastener
has been detailed in the Costs of 3. Will not affect intrastate aviation in holes in the forward fitting lower radius of
Compliance section of this document Alaska; and frame (FR) 40. We are issuing this AD to
and includes time for reviewing 4. Will not have a significant detect and correct cracking in the forward
instructions, as well as completing and economic impact, positive or negative, fitting lower radius of FR 40. Such cracking
could reduce the structural integrity of the
reviewing the collection of information. on a substantial number of small entities
fuselage.
Therefore, all reporting associated with under the criteria of the Regulatory
this AD is mandatory. Comments Flexibility Act. (f) Compliance
concerning the accuracy of this burden Comply with this AD within the
List of Subjects in 14 CFR Part 39
and suggestions for reducing the burden compliance times specified, unless already
should be directed to the FAA at 800 Air transportation, Aircraft, Aviation done.
Independence Ave. SW., Washington, safety, Incorporation by reference, (g) Inspection
DC 20591, ATTN: Information Safety.
At the later of the compliance times
Collection Clearance Officer, AES–200. specified in paragraphs (g)(1) and (g)(2) of
Adoption of the Amendment
Authority for This Rulemaking this AD, do a high frequency eddy current
Accordingly, under the authority (HFEC) inspection of the lower area of the FR
Title 49 of the United States Code delegated to me by the Administrator, 40 radius for cracking, in accordance with
specifies the FAA’s authority to issue the FAA amends 14 CFR part 39 as paragraph 4.2.2 in Airbus Alert Operators
rules on aviation safety. Subtitle I, follows: Transmission (AOT) A57W009–16, Rev 01,
section 106, describes the authority of including Appendices 1 and 2, dated July 13,
PART 39—AIRWORTHINESS 2016.
the FAA Administrator. ‘‘Subtitle VII: (1) Prior to exceeding 19,000 total flight
Aviation Programs,’’ describes in more DIRECTIVES
cycles or 41,000 total flight hours since the
detail the scope of the Agency’s airplane’s first flight, whichever occurs first.
authority. ■ 1. The authority citation for part 39
(2) Within 300 flight cycles or 630 flight
continues to read as follows: hours after the effective date of this AD,
We are issuing this rulemaking under
Authority: 49 U.S.C. 106(g), 40113, 44701. whichever occurs first.
the authority described in ‘‘Subtitle VII,
Part A, Subpart III, Section 44701: § 39.13 [Amended] (h) Additional Inspection for Previously
General requirements.’’ Under that Inspected Airplanes
section, Congress charges the FAA with ■ 2. The FAA amends § 39.13 by adding For airplanes on which the HFEC
promoting safe flight of civil aircraft in the following new airworthiness inspection required by paragraph (g) of this
air commerce by prescribing regulations directive (AD): AD was accomplished before the effective
for practices, methods, and procedures 2017–15–17 Airbus: Amendment 39–18977; date of this AD using the procedures in
Airbus AOT A57W009–16, Rev 00, including
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the Administrator finds necessary for Docket No. FAA–2016–9055; Directorate
Identifier 2016–NM–071–AD. Appendices 1 and 2, dated February 25,
safety in air commerce. This regulation
2016: Within 300 flight cycles or 630 flight
is within the scope of that authority (a) Effective Date hours after the effective date of this AD,
because it addresses an unsafe condition This AD is effective September 5, 2017. whichever occurs first, do a one-time
that is likely to exist or develop on additional HFEC inspection of the lower area
products identified in this rulemaking (b) Affected ADs of the FR 40 radius for cracking, in
action. None. accordance with paragraph 4.2.2 in Airbus

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Federal Register / Vol. 82, No. 146 / Tuesday, August 1, 2017 / Rules and Regulations 35647

AOT A57W009–16, Rev 01, including (2) Contacting the Manufacturer: For any National Archives and Records
Appendices 1 and 2, dated July 13, 2016. requirement in this AD to obtain corrective Administration (NARA). For information on
actions from a manufacturer, the action must the availability of this material at NARA, call
(i) Corrective Action be accomplished using a method approved 202–741–6030, or go to: http://www.archives.
If any crack is found during the inspection by the Manager, International Branch, ANM– gov/federal-register/cfr/ibr-locations.html.
required by paragraph (g) or (h) of this AD: 116, Transport Airplane Directorate, FAA; or
Before further flight, do the applicable Issued in Renton, Washington, on July 19,
the European Aviation Safety Agency
corrective actions in accordance with the (EASA); or Airbus’s EASA Design 2017.
procedures in Airbus AOT A57W009–16, Rev Organization Approval (DOA). If approved by Victor Wicklund,
01, including Appendices 1 and 2, dated July the DOA, the approval must include the Acting Manager, Transport Airplane
13, 2016. Where AOT A57W009–16, Rev 01, DOA-authorized signature. Directorate, Aircraft Certification Service.
including Appendices 1 and 2, dated July 13, (3) Reporting Requirements: A federal [FR Doc. 2017–15808 Filed 7–31–17; 8:45 am]
2016, specifies to contact Airbus for agency may not conduct or sponsor, and a
BILLING CODE 4910–13–P
appropriate action, accomplish the corrective person is not required to respond to, nor
actions in accordance with the procedures shall a person be subject to a penalty for
specified in paragraph (m)(2) of this AD. failure to comply with a collection of
information subject to the requirements of DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION
(j) Optional Service Information for the Paperwork Reduction Act unless that
Accomplishing Required Actions collection of information displays a current Federal Aviation Administration
Accomplishment of the actions required by valid OMB Control Number. The OMB
paragraphs (g), (h), and (i) of this AD, in Control Number for this information 14 CFR Part 39
accordance with, and at the compliance collection is 2120–0056. Public reporting for
times specified in, the Accomplishment this collection of information is estimated to [Docket No. FAA–2017–0142; Product
Instructions of Airbus Service Bulletin A300– be approximately 5 minutes per response, Identifier 2016–SW–013–AD; Amendment
57–6120, dated April 28, 2017, is acceptable including the time for reviewing instructions, 39–18979; AD 2017–16–02]
for compliance with the requirements of completing and reviewing the collection of
those paragraphs. information. All responses to this collection RIN 2120–AA64
of information are mandatory. Comments
(k) Reporting Requirement concerning the accuracy of this burden and Airworthiness Directives; Agusta
Submit a report of all findings (both suggestions for reducing the burden should S.p.A. Helicopters
positive and negative) from the inspection be directed to the FAA at: 800 Independence
required by paragraph (g) of this AD to Ave. SW., Washington, DC 20591, Attn: AGENCY: Federal Aviation
Airbus Customer Services through Information Collection Clearance Officer, Administration (FAA), DOT.
TechRequest on Airbus World (https:// AES–200. ACTION: Final rule.
w3.airbus.com/) by selecting Engineering
Domain and ATA 57–10; or submit the (n) Related Information
SUMMARY: We are adopting a new
results to Airbus in accordance with the (1) Refer to Mandatory Continuing airworthiness directive (AD) for Agusta
procedures in Airbus Service Bulletin A300– Airworthiness Information (MCAI) EASA AD S.p.A. Model A109S helicopters. This
57–6120, dated April 28, 2017. 2016–0179, dated September 12, 2016, for
(1) For airplanes on which the inspection related information. This MCAI may be
AD requires adding limitations to the
specified in paragraph (g) of this AD is found in the AD docket on the Internet at rotorcraft flight manual (RFM). This AD
accomplished on or after the effective date of http://www.regulations.gov by searching for was prompted by a report of a cabin
this AD: Submit the report within 30 days and locating Docket No. FAA–2016–9055. liner detaching from the helicopter and
after performing the inspection. (2) For more information about this AD, hitting the main rotor (M/R) blades
(2) For airplanes on which the inspection contact Dan Rodina, Aerospace Engineer, during flight. The actions of this AD are
specified in paragraph (g) of this AD is International Branch, ANM–116, FAA, 1601 intended to prevent an unsafe condition
accomplished before the effective date of this Lind Avenue SW., Renton, WA 98057–3356; on these products.
AD: Submit the report within 30 days after telephone 425–227–2125; fax 425–227–1149.
the effective date of this AD. DATES: This AD is effective September 5,
(o) Material Incorporated by Reference 2017.
(l) Credit for Previous Actions (1) The Director of the Federal Register ADDRESSES: For service information
This paragraph provides credit for the approved the incorporation by reference identified in this final rule, contact
action required by paragraph (g) of this AD, (IBR) of the service information listed in this
if that action was done before the effective paragraph under 5 U.S.C. 552(a) and 1 CFR AgustaWestland, Product Support
date of this AD using Airbus AOT A57W009– part 51. Engineering, Via del Gregge, 100, 21015
16, Rev 00, including Appendices 1 and 2, (2) You must use this service information Lonate Pozzolo (VA) Italy, ATTN:
dated February 25, 2016, provided the as applicable to do the actions required by Maurizio D’Angelo; telephone 39–0331–
inspection required by paragraph (h) of this this AD, unless this AD specifies otherwise. 664757; fax 39 0331–664680; or at
AD is accomplished. (i) Airbus Alert Operators Transmission http://www.agustawestland.com/
A57W009–16, Rev 01, including Appendices technical-bulletins. You may review the
(m) Other FAA AD Provisions 1 and 2, dated July 13, 2016.
The following provisions also apply to this
referenced service information at the
(ii) Airbus Service Bulletin A300–57–6120,
AD: dated April 28, 2017. FAA, Office of the Regional Counsel,
(1) Alternative Methods of Compliance (3) For service information identified in Southwest Region, 10101 Hillwood
(AMOCs): The Manager, International this AD, contact Airbus SAS, Airworthiness Pkwy., Room 6N–321, Fort Worth, TX
Branch, ANM–116, FAA, has the authority to Office—EAW, 1 Rond Point Maurice 76177.
approve AMOCs for this AD, if requested Bellonte, 31707 Blagnac Cedex, France;
using the procedures found in 14 CFR 39.19. telephone +33 5 61 93 36 96; fax +33 5 61 Examining the AD Docket
In accordance with 14 CFR 39.19, send your 93 44 51; email account.airworth-eas@ You may examine the AD docket on
request to your principal inspector or local
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airbus.com; Internet http://www.airbus.com. the Internet at http://
Flight Standards District Office, as (4) You may view this service information www.regulations.gov by searching for
appropriate. If sending information directly at the FAA, Transport Airplane Directorate,
to the International Branch, send it to the 1601 Lind Avenue SW., Renton, WA. For and locating Docket No. FAA–2017–
attention of the person identified in information on the availability of this 0142; or in person at the Docket
paragraph (n)(2) of this AD. Information may material at the FAA, call 425–227–1221. Operations Office between 9 a.m. and 5
be emailed to: 9-ANM-116-AMOC- (5) You may view this service information p.m., Monday through Friday, except
REQUESTS@faa.gov. that is incorporated by reference at the Federal holidays. The AD docket

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Document Created: 2018-10-24 11:42:30
Document Modified: 2018-10-24 11:42:30

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		Rules and Regulations
Action		Final rule.
Dates		This AD is effective September 5, 2017.
Contact		Dan Rodina, Aerospace Engineer, International Branch, ANM-116, Transport Airplane Directorate, FAA, 1601 Lind Avenue SW., Renton, WA 98057-3356; telephone 425-227-2125; fax 425-227-1149.
FR Citation		82 FR 35644
RIN Number		2120-AA64
CFR Associated		Air Transportation; Aircraft; Aviation Safety; Incorporation by Reference and Safety

82 FR 35644 - Airworthiness Directives; Airbus Airplanes

DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATIONFederal Aviation Administration

Federal Register Volume 82, Issue 146 (August 1, 2017)

DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION
Federal Aviation Administration