82_FR_38774 82 FR 38618 - Airworthiness Directives; Airbus Airplanes

82 FR 38618 - Airworthiness Directives; Airbus Airplanes

DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION
Federal Aviation Administration

Federal Register Volume 82, Issue 156 (August 15, 2017)

Page Range38618-38621
FR Document2017-16569

We propose to supersede Airworthiness Directive (AD) 2016-02- 01, which applies to certain Airbus Model A320-211, -212, and -231 airplanes. AD 2016-02-01 requires repetitive inspections to detect cracks of the pressurized floor fittings at a certain frame, and renewal of the zone protective finish or replacement of fittings with new fittings if necessary. AD 2016-02-01 also provides an optional modification that is terminating action for the repetitive inspections. Since we issued AD 2016-02-01, the manufacturer conducted an additional fatigue analysis of cracking of the pressurized floor fittings and determined that the optional modification should be a required action. This proposed AD would retain the requirements of AD 2016-02-01, and would require accomplishment of the modification. This proposed AD is intended to complete certain mandated programs intended to support the airplane reaching its limit of validity (LOV) of the engineering data that support the established structural maintenance program. We are proposing this AD to address the unsafe condition on these products.

Federal Register, Volume 82 Issue 156 (Tuesday, August 15, 2017) 
[Federal Register Volume 82, Number 156 (Tuesday, August 15, 2017)]
[Proposed Rules]
[Pages 38618-38621]
From the Federal Register Online  [www.thefederalregister.org]
[FR Doc No: 2017-16569]


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DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION

Federal Aviation Administration

14 CFR Part 39

[Docket No. FAA-2017-0716; Product Identifier 2016-NM-165-AD]
RIN 2120-AA64


Airworthiness Directives; Airbus Airplanes

AGENCY: Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), DOT.

ACTION: Notice of proposed rulemaking (NPRM).

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SUMMARY: We propose to supersede Airworthiness Directive (AD) 2016-02-

[[Page 38619]]

01, which applies to certain Airbus Model A320-211, -212, and -231 
airplanes. AD 2016-02-01 requires repetitive inspections to detect 
cracks of the pressurized floor fittings at a certain frame, and 
renewal of the zone protective finish or replacement of fittings with 
new fittings if necessary. AD 2016-02-01 also provides an optional 
modification that is terminating action for the repetitive inspections. 
Since we issued AD 2016-02-01, the manufacturer conducted an additional 
fatigue analysis of cracking of the pressurized floor fittings and 
determined that the optional modification should be a required action. 
This proposed AD would retain the requirements of AD 2016-02-01, and 
would require accomplishment of the modification. This proposed AD is 
intended to complete certain mandated programs intended to support the 
airplane reaching its limit of validity (LOV) of the engineering data 
that support the established structural maintenance program. We are 
proposing this AD to address the unsafe condition on these products.

DATES: We must receive comments on this proposed AD by September 29, 
2017.

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

Examining the AD Docket

    You may examine the AD docket on the Internet at http://www.regulations.gov by searching for and locating Docket No. FAA-2017-
0716; or in person at the Docket Management Facility between 9 a.m. and 
5 p.m., Monday through Friday, except Federal holidays. The AD docket 
contains this proposed AD, the regulatory evaluation, any comments 
received, and other information. The street address for the Docket 
Operations office (telephone 800-647-5527) is in the ADDRESSES section. 
Comments will be available in the AD docket shortly after receipt.

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

SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: 

Comments Invited

    We invite you to send any written relevant data, views, or 
arguments about this proposal. Send your comments to an address listed 
under the ADDRESSES section. Include ``Docket No. FAA-2017-0716; 
Product Identifier 2016-NM-165-AD'' at the beginning of your comments. 
We specifically invite comments on the overall regulatory, economic, 
environmental, and energy aspects of this proposed AD. We will consider 
all comments received by the closing date and may amend this proposed 
AD based on those comments.
    We will post all comments we receive, without change, to http://www.regulations.gov, including any personal information you provide. We 
will also post a report summarizing each substantive verbal contact we 
receive about this proposed AD.

Discussion

    As described in FAA Advisory Circular 120-104 (http://www.faa.gov/documentLibrary/media/Advisory_Circular/120-104.pdf), several programs 
have been developed to support initiatives that will ensure the 
continued airworthiness of aging airplane structure. The last element 
of those initiatives is the requirement to establish a LOV of the 
engineering data that support the structural maintenance program under 
14 CFR 26.21. This proposed AD is the result of an assessment of the 
previously established programs by the design approval holder (DAH) 
during the process of establishing the LOV for the affected airplanes. 
The actions specified in this proposed AD are necessary to complete 
certain programs to ensure the continued airworthiness of aging 
airplane structure and to support an airplane reaching its LOV.
    On January 9, 2016, we issued AD 2016-02-01, Amendment 39-18380 (81 
FR 4878, January 28, 2016) (``AD 2016-02-01''), for certain Airbus 
Model A320-211, -212, and -231 airplanes. AD 2016-02-01 was prompted by 
an extended service goal analysis by the manufacturer, which revealed 
that the compliance times and repetitive inspection intervals to detect 
and correct fatigue cracking in the pressurized floor fittings at frame 
(FR) 36 should be reduced to meet the original design service goal. AD 
2016-02-01 requires repetitive visual inspections to detect cracks of 
the pressurized floor fittings at FR 36, and renewal of the zone 
protective finish or replacement of fittings with new fittings if 
necessary. AD 2016-02-01 also provides an optional terminating action 
for the repetitive inspections. We issued AD 2016-02-01 to detect and 
correct fatigue cracking in the pressurized floor fittings at FR 36, 
which could result in failure of a floor fitting and subsequent 
depressurization of the fuselage.
    Since we issued AD 2016-02-01, the manufacturer conducted an 
additional fatigue analysis to extend the service goal of the airplane 
and to meet the limit of validity requirements of the widespread 
fatigue damage (WFD) regulations. Also, the European Aviation Safety 
Agency (EASA), which is the Technical Agent for the Member States of 
the European Union, has issued EASA Airworthiness Directive 2016-0181, 
dated September 13, 2016 (referred to after this as the Mandatory 
Continuing Airworthiness Information, or ``the MCAI''), to correct an 
unsafe condition for certain Airbus Model A320-211, -212, and -231 
airplanes. The MCAI states:

    During centre fuselage certification full scale fatigue testing, 
damage was found on the pressurized floor fittings at Frame (FR) 36, 
below the lower surface panel. This condition, if not detected and 
corrected, could affect the structural integrity of the aeroplane.
    To prevent such damage, Airbus developed modification 21282, 
which was introduced in production from MSN [manufacturer serial 
number] 0105, to reinforce the pressurized floor fitting lower 
surface by changing material. For affected in-service aeroplanes, 
Airbus issued Service Bulletin (SB) A320-57-1028, introducing 
repetitive inspections, and SB A320-57-1029, which provides 
modification instructions.
    DGAC [Direction G[eacute]n[eacute]rale de l'Aviation Civile] 
France issued AD 95-099-067 to require these repetitive inspections 
and, depending on findings, corrective action(s), while the 
modification was specified in that [French] AD as optional 
terminating action for these inspections.
    Following new analysis in the frame of Extended Service Goal 
exercise, the

[[Page 38620]]

inspection thresholds and intervals were revised to meet the 
original Design Service Goal. Consequently, EASA issued AD 2013-0226 
[which corresponds to FAA AD 2016-02-01 (81 FR 4878, January 28, 
2016)] to retain the requirements of DGAC France AD 95-099-067, 
which was superseded, but required those actions within reduced 
compliance times.
    Since that [EASA] AD was issued, in the frame of Widespread 
Fatigue Damages analysis, the situation has been reassessed and it 
has been decided to reclassify the modification, still stated as 
`optional' terminating action in EASA AD 2013-0226, to the status 
`mandatory'.
    For the reasons described above, this [EASA] AD retains the 
requirements of EASA AD 2013-0226, which is superseded, but requires 
embodiment of the modification as specified in Airbus SB A320-57-
1029.

    You may examine the MCAI in the AD docket on the Internet at http://www.regulations.gov by searching for and locating Docket No. FAA-2017-
0716.

Related Service Information Under 1 CFR Part 51

    Airbus has issued Service Bulletin A320-57-1028, Revision 02, dated 
June 3, 2013. The service information describes procedures for an 
inspection to detect cracks of the pressurized floor fittings at FR 36, 
renewal of the zone protective finish, and replacement of fittings with 
new fittings.
    Airbus has also issued Service Bulletin A320-57-1029, Revision 02, 
dated June 16, 1999. The service information describes procedures for 
modification of the pressurized floor fittings at FR 36.
    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.

FAA's Determination and Requirements of This Proposed AD

    This product has been approved by the aviation authority of another 
country, and is approved for operation in the United States. Pursuant 
to our bilateral agreement with the State of Design Authority, we have 
been notified of the unsafe condition described in the MCAI and service 
information referenced above. We are proposing this AD because we 
evaluated all pertinent information and determined an unsafe condition 
exists and is likely to exist or develop on other products of the same 
type design.

Costs of Compliance

    We estimate that this proposed AD affects 13 airplanes of U.S. 
registry. We estimate the following costs to comply with this proposed 
AD:

                                                                     Estimated Costs
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
               Action                         Labor cost            Parts cost       Cost per product                 Cost on U.S. operators
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Inspection.........................  11 work-hours x $85 per                  $0  $935 per inspection     $12,155 per inspection cycle.
                                      hour = $935 per inspection                   cycle.
                                      cycle.
Modification.......................  85 work-hours x $85 per               5,320  12,545................  163,085.
                                      hour = $7,225.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

    We have received no definitive data that would enable us to provide 
cost estimates for the on-condition actions specified in this proposed 
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.
    This AD is issued in accordance with authority delegated by the 
Executive Director, Aircraft Certification Service, as authorized by 
FAA Order 8000.51C. In accordance with that order, issuance of ADs is 
normally a function of the Compliance and Airworthiness Division, but 
during this transition period, the Executive Director has delegated the 
authority to issue ADs applicable to transport category airplanes to 
the Director of the System Oversight Division.

Regulatory Findings

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

List of Subjects in 14 CFR Part 39

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

The Proposed Amendment

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

PART 39--AIRWORTHINESS DIRECTIVES

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

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


Sec.  39.13   [Amended]

0
2. The FAA amends Sec.  39.13 by removing Airworthiness Directive (AD) 
2016-02-01, Amendment 39-18380 (81 FR 4878, January 28, 2016), and 
adding the following new AD:

Airbus: Docket No. FAA-2017-0716; Product Identifier 2016-NM-165-AD.

(a) Comments Due Date

    We must receive comments by September 29, 2017.

(b) Affected ADs

    This AD replaces AD 2016-02-01, Amendment 39-18380 (81 FR 4878, 
January 28, 2016) (``AD 2016-02-01'').

[[Page 38621]]

(c) Applicability

    This AD applies to Airbus Model A320-211, -212, -214, and -231 
airplanes, certificated in any category, manufacturer serial numbers 
up through 0104 inclusive.

(d) Subject

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

(e) Reason

    This proposed AD is intended to complete certain mandated 
programs intended to support the airplane reaching its limit of 
validity (LOV) of the engineering data that support the established 
structural maintenance program. We are proposing this AD to prevent 
fatigue cracking in the pressurized floor fittings at frame 36, 
which could result in the reduced structural integrity of the floor 
fittings and subsequent depressurization of the fuselage.

(f) Compliance

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

(g) Inspection

    (1) At the latest of the times specified in paragraphs 
(g)(1)(i), (g)(1)(ii), and (g)(1)(iii) of this AD: Do a detailed 
inspection of the pressurized floor fittings at FR 36, in accordance 
with the Accomplishment Instructions of Airbus Service Bulletin 
A320-57-1028, Revision 02, dated June 3, 2013. Repeat the inspection 
thereafter at intervals not to exceed 9,300 flight cycles or 18,600 
flight hours, whichever occurs first.
    (i) Before exceeding 20,900 flight cycles or 41,800 flight 
hours, whichever occurs first since first flight of the airplane.
    (ii) Within 9,300 flight cycles or 18,600 flight cycles since 
the most recent inspection accomplished in accordance with the 
Accomplishment Instructions of Airbus Service Bulletin A320-57-1028, 
Revision 02, dated June 3, 2013.
    (iii) Within 1,250 flight cycles or 2,500 flight hours after 
March 3, 2016 (the effective date of AD 2016-02-01), without 
exceeding 12,000 flight cycles since the most recent inspection 
accomplished in accordance with the Accomplishment Instructions of 
Airbus Service Bulletin A320-57-1028, Revision 02, dated June 3, 
2013.
    (2) If any crack is found during any inspection required by 
paragraph (g)(1) of this AD: Before further flight, repair using a 
method approved by the Manager, International Section, Transport 
Standards Branch, FAA; or the European Aviation Safety Agency 
(EASA); or Airbus's EASA Design Organization Approval (DOA).

(h) Modification

    Before exceeding 48,000 total flight cycles or 96,000 total 
flight hours, whichever occurs first since first flight of the 
airplane: Modify (replace aluminum fittings with titanium fittings) 
the pressurized floor fittings at FR 36, in accordance with the 
Accomplishment Instructions of Airbus Service Bulletin A320-57-1029, 
Revision 02, dated June 16, 1999. Accomplishment of this 
modification is terminating action for the repetitive inspections 
required by paragraph (g) of this AD for the modified airplane only.

(i) Credit for Previous Actions

    (1) This paragraph provides credit for the inspection required 
by paragraph (g) of this AD, if that inspection was performed before 
the effective date of this AD using Airbus Service Bulletin A320-57-
1028, dated August 12, 1991; or Revision 01, dated June 3, 2013.
    (2) This paragraph provides credit for the modification required 
by paragraph (h) of this AD, if that modification was performed 
before the effective date of this AD using Airbus Service Bulletin 
A320-57-1029, dated August 12, 1991; or Revision 01, dated November 
10, 1992.

(j) Other FAA AD Provisions

    The following provisions also apply to this AD:
    (1) Alternative Methods of Compliance (AMOCs): The Manager, 
International Section, Transport Standards Staff, 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 Section, 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: As of the effective date of 
this AD, for any requirement in this AD to obtain corrective actions 
from a manufacturer, the action must be accomplished using a method 
approved by the Manager, International Section, Transport Standards 
Branch, FAA; or the EASA; or Airbus's DOA. If approved by the DOA, 
the approval must include the DOA-authorized signature.

(k) Related Information

    (1) Refer to Mandatory Continuing Airworthiness Information 
(MCAI) EASA AD 2016-0181, dated September 13, 2016, for related 
information. This MCAI may be found in the AD docket on the Internet 
at http://www.regulations.gov by searching for and locating Docket 
No. FAA-2017-0716.
    (2) For more information about this AD, contact Sanjay Ralhan, 
Aerospace Engineer, International Section, Transport Standards 
Branch, FAA, 1601 Lind Avenue SW., Renton, WA 98057-3356; telephone 
425-227-1405; fax 425-227-1149.
    (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. You may view this referenced service information at 
the FAA, Transport Standards Branch, 1601 Lind Avenue SW., Renton, 
WA. For information on the availability of this material at the FAA, 
call 425-227-1221.

    Issued in Renton, Washington, on July 28, 2017.
John P. Piccola, Jr.,
Acting Director, System Oversight Division, Aircraft Certification 
Service.
[FR Doc. 2017-16569 Filed 8-14-17; 8:45 am]
 BILLING CODE 4910-13-P

38618 Federal Register / Vol. 82, No. 156 / Tuesday, August 15, 2017 / Proposed Rules SBA has developed a regulatory policy repealed, replaced, or modified. In regulatory programs and, if so, what are that is implemented primarily through doing so, agencies should focus on they? several core program offices: Office of identifying regulations that, among (3) Are there SBA regulations that Capital Access, Office of Disaster other things: eliminate jobs or inhibit have become outdated and, if so, how Assistance, Office of Entrepreneurial job creation; are outdated, unnecessary can they be modernized to better Development, Office of Government or ineffective; impose costs that exceed accomplish their regulatory objectives? Contracting and Business Development, benefits; create a serious inconsistency (4) Are there SBA regulations that are Office of International Trade, and Office or otherwise interfere with regulatory still necessary, but which have not of Investment and Innovation. SBA’s reform initiatives and policies; or are operated as well as expected such that regulations are codified at title 13 Code associated with Executive Orders or a modified approach is justified, and of Federal Regulations, chapter I, and other Presidential directives that have what is that approach? consist of parts 100 through 147. been rescinded or substantially (5) Are there SBA regulations or Federal agencies have an ongoing modified. regulatory processes that are responsibility to ensure that the unnecessarily complicated or could be regulations they issue do not have an D. Executive Order 13563 streamlined to achieve regulatory adverse economic impact on those Under Executive Order 13563, objectives more efficiently? affected by the rules. This responsibility Improving Regulation and Regulatory (6) Are there any technological has been reinforced over the years in Review (January 11, 2011), agencies developments that can be leveraged to various executive orders that have conduct a retrospective review of their modify, streamline, or repeal any expressly directed agencies to review regulations to seek more affordable, less existing SBA regulatory requirements? their regulations with an eye towards intrusive means to achieve policy goals, (7) Are there any SBA regulations that reducing the time and money the public and to give careful consideration to the are not tailored to impose the least must spend to comply with the benefits and costs of their regulations. burden on the public? regulatory requirements. The most Executive Order 13563, similar to the (8) How can SBA best obtain and recent of these executive orders are requirements in Executive Order 13771 consider accurate, objective data about discussed below; together, they provide and Executive Order 13777, also the costs, burdens, and benefits of the framework for SBA’s efforts to requires agencies to review existing existing SBA regulations? reduce the regulatory burden on the rules to remove outdated regulations (9) Are there any specific suggestions participants in the agency’s programs. that stifle job creation and make the U.S. of ways SBA can better achieve its One of SBA’s primary objectives in economy less competitive. regulatory objectives? carrying out these efforts is to continue SBA notes that this RFI is issued to promote economic growth, E. Request for Information solely for information and planning innovation, and job creation in the small In order to fully implement the goal purposes and that the Agency is not business sector, and to ensure that of these executive orders, SBA seeks required to implement any of the disaster survivors have the clear policy help from the public in identifying suggestions it receives. In addition, and procedural guidance they need to those regulations that affected parties although the Agency will not be able to quickly obtain financial assistance to believe impose unnecessary burdens or respond to individual comments, the rebuild their lives. Anyone responding costs that exceed their benefits, requested feedback is valued and will be to SBA’s request for feedback should eliminate jobs or inhibit job creation, or given careful consideration. keep these objectives in mind. are ineffective or outdated. Commenters should also address how SBA can best Authority: 15 U.S.C. 634(b)(6); E.O. 13771; B. Executive Order 13771 E.O. 13777. obtain and consider accurate, objective On January 30, 2017, President Trump data about the costs and other burdens Dated: August 4, 2017. signed Executive Order 13771, Reducing associated with the agency’s existing Linda E. McMahon, Regulation and Controlling Regulatory regulations. As you comment, SBA Administrator. Costs, which, among other objectives, is requests that you keep in mind the [FR Doc. 2017–17176 Filed 8–14–17; 8:45 am] intended to ensure that an agency’s agency’s mission to strengthen BILLING CODE 8025–01–P regulatory costs are prudently managed America’s economy by providing tools and controlled so as to minimize the to help start and grow businesses, create compliance burden imposed on the jobs, and help disaster survivors public. For every new regulation an DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION recover. agency proposes to implement, unless F. List of Questions for Commenters Federal Aviation Administration prohibited by law, this Executive Order requires the agency to (i) identify at The list of questions below is meant 14 CFR Part 39 least two existing regulations that the to assist in the formulation of public agency can cancel; and (ii) use the cost comments and is not intended to restrict [Docket No. FAA–2017–0716; Product savings from the cancelled regulations the issues that may be addressed. SBA Identifier 2016–NM–165–AD] to offset the cost of the new regulation. requests that commenters identify the RIN 2120–AA64 specific regulation at issue and explain, C. Executive Order 13777 in as much detail as possible, why the Airworthiness Directives; Airbus On February 24, 2017, the President regulation should be streamlined, mstockstill on DSK30JT082PROD with PROPOSALS Airplanes issued Executive Order 13777, expanded, or repealed, including Enforcing the Regulatory Agenda, which estimated cost savings and benefits to AGENCY: Federal Aviation further emphasized the goal of the small businesses and other stakeholders. Administration (FAA), DOT. Administration to alleviate the (1) Are there SBA regulations that ACTION: Notice of proposed rulemaking regulatory burdens placed on the public. have become unnecessary or ineffective (NPRM). Under Executive Order 13777, agencies and, if so, what are they? must evaluate their existing regulations (2) Are there SBA regulations that can SUMMARY: We propose to supersede to determine which ones should be be repealed without impairing SBA’s Airworthiness Directive (AD) 2016–02– VerDate Sep<11>2014 16:14 Aug 14, 2017 Jkt 241001 PO 00000 Frm 00006 Fmt 4702 Sfmt 4702 E:\FR\FM\15AUP1.SGM 15AUP1

Federal Register / Vol. 82, No. 156 / Tuesday, August 15, 2017 / Proposed Rules 38619 01, which applies to certain Airbus and locating Docket No. FAA–2017– On January 9, 2016, we issued AD Model A320–211, –212, and –231 0716; or in person at the Docket 2016–02–01, Amendment 39–18380 (81 airplanes. AD 2016–02–01 requires Management Facility between 9 a.m. FR 4878, January 28, 2016) (‘‘AD 2016– repetitive inspections to detect cracks of and 5 p.m., Monday through Friday, 02–01’’), for certain Airbus Model the pressurized floor fittings at a certain except Federal holidays. The AD docket A320–211, –212, and –231 airplanes. frame, and renewal of the zone contains this proposed AD, the AD 2016–02–01 was prompted by an protective finish or replacement of regulatory evaluation, any comments extended service goal analysis by the fittings with new fittings if necessary. received, and other information. The manufacturer, which revealed that the AD 2016–02–01 also provides an street address for the Docket Operations compliance times and repetitive optional modification that is office (telephone 800–647–5527) is in inspection intervals to detect and terminating action for the repetitive the ADDRESSES section. Comments will correct fatigue cracking in the inspections. Since we issued AD 2016– be available in the AD docket shortly pressurized floor fittings at frame (FR) 02–01, the manufacturer conducted an after receipt. 36 should be reduced to meet the additional fatigue analysis of cracking of FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: original design service goal. AD 2016– the pressurized floor fittings and Sanjay Ralhan, Aerospace Engineer, 02–01 requires repetitive visual determined that the optional International Section, Transport inspections to detect cracks of the modification should be a required Standards Branch, FAA, 1601 Lind pressurized floor fittings at FR 36, and action. This proposed AD would retain Avenue SW., Renton, WA 98057–3356; renewal of the zone protective finish or the requirements of AD 2016–02–01, telephone 425–227–1405; fax 425–227– replacement of fittings with new fittings and would require accomplishment of 1149. if necessary. AD 2016–02–01 also the modification. This proposed AD is SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: provides an optional terminating action intended to complete certain mandated for the repetitive inspections. We issued Comments Invited programs intended to support the AD 2016–02–01 to detect and correct airplane reaching its limit of validity We invite you to send any written fatigue cracking in the pressurized floor (LOV) of the engineering data that relevant data, views, or arguments about fittings at FR 36, which could result in support the established structural this proposal. Send your comments to failure of a floor fitting and subsequent maintenance program. We are proposing an address listed under the ADDRESSES depressurization of the fuselage. this AD to address the unsafe condition section. Include ‘‘Docket No. FAA– Since we issued AD 2016–02–01, the on these products. 2017–0716; Product Identifier 2016– manufacturer conducted an additional DATES: We must receive comments on NM–165–AD’’ at the beginning of your fatigue analysis to extend the service this proposed AD by September 29, comments. We specifically invite goal of the airplane and to meet the 2017. comments on the overall regulatory, limit of validity requirements of the economic, environmental, and energy widespread fatigue damage (WFD) ADDRESSES: You may send comments, aspects of this proposed AD. We will regulations. Also, the European using the procedures found in 14 CFR consider all comments received by the Aviation Safety Agency (EASA), which 11.43 and 11.45, by any of the following closing date and may amend this is the Technical Agent for the Member methods: proposed AD based on those comments. States of the European Union, has • Federal eRulemaking Portal: Go to We will post all comments we issued EASA Airworthiness Directive http://www.regulations.gov. Follow the receive, without change, to http:// 2016–0181, dated September 13, 2016 instructions for submitting comments. www.regulations.gov, including any (referred to after this as the Mandatory • Fax: 202–493–2251. personal information you provide. We Continuing Airworthiness Information, • Mail: U.S. Department of will also post a report summarizing each or ‘‘the MCAI’’), to correct an unsafe Transportation, Docket Operations, M– substantive verbal contact we receive condition for certain Airbus Model 30, West Building Ground Floor, Room about this proposed AD. A320–211, –212, and –231 airplanes. W12–140, 1200 New Jersey Avenue SE., Discussion The MCAI states: Washington, DC 20590. • Hand Delivery: Deliver to Mail As described in FAA Advisory During centre fuselage certification full address above between 9 a.m. and 5 Circular 120–104 (http://www.faa.gov/ scale fatigue testing, damage was found on the pressurized floor fittings at Frame (FR) p.m., Monday through Friday, except documentLibrary/media/Advisory_ 36, below the lower surface panel. This Federal holidays. Circular/120-104.pdf), several programs condition, if not detected and corrected, For service information identified in have been developed to support could affect the structural integrity of the this NPRM, contact Airbus, initiatives that will ensure the aeroplane. Airworthiness Office—EIAS, 1 Rond continued airworthiness of aging To prevent such damage, Airbus developed Point Maurice Bellonte, 31707 Blagnac airplane structure. The last element of modification 21282, which was introduced in Cedex, France; telephone +33 5 61 93 36 those initiatives is the requirement to production from MSN [manufacturer serial 96; fax +33 5 61 93 44 51; email establish a LOV of the engineering data number] 0105, to reinforce the pressurized floor fitting lower surface by changing account.airworth-eas@airbus.com; that support the structural maintenance material. For affected in-service aeroplanes, Internet http://www.airbus.com. You program under 14 CFR 26.21. This Airbus issued Service Bulletin (SB) A320– may view this referenced service proposed AD is the result of an 57–1028, introducing repetitive inspections, information at the FAA, Transport assessment of the previously established and SB A320–57–1029, which provides Standards Branch, 1601 Lind Avenue programs by the design approval holder modification instructions. mstockstill on DSK30JT082PROD with PROPOSALS SW., Renton, WA. For information on (DAH) during the process of establishing DGAC [Direction Générale de l’Aviation the availability of this material at the the LOV for the affected airplanes. The Civile] France issued AD 95–099–067 to actions specified in this proposed AD require these repetitive inspections and, FAA, call 425–227–1221. depending on findings, corrective action(s), are necessary to complete certain Examining the AD Docket while the modification was specified in that programs to ensure the continued [French] AD as optional terminating action You may examine the AD docket on airworthiness of aging airplane structure for these inspections. the Internet at http:// and to support an airplane reaching its Following new analysis in the frame of www.regulations.gov by searching for LOV. Extended Service Goal exercise, the VerDate Sep<11>2014 16:14 Aug 14, 2017 Jkt 241001 PO 00000 Frm 00007 Fmt 4702 Sfmt 4702 E:\FR\FM\15AUP1.SGM 15AUP1

38620 Federal Register / Vol. 82, No. 156 / Tuesday, August 15, 2017 / Proposed Rules inspection thresholds and intervals were and locating Docket No. FAA–2017– FAA’s Determination and Requirements revised to meet the original Design Service 0716. of This Proposed AD Goal. Consequently, EASA issued AD 2013– 0226 [which corresponds to FAA AD 2016– Related Service Information Under 1 This product has been approved by 02–01 (81 FR 4878, January 28, 2016)] to CFR Part 51 the aviation authority of another retain the requirements of DGAC France AD Airbus has issued Service Bulletin country, and is approved for operation 95–099–067, which was superseded, but A320–57–1028, Revision 02, dated June in the United States. Pursuant to our required those actions within reduced 3, 2013. The service information bilateral agreement with the State of compliance times. describes procedures for an inspection Design Authority, we have been notified Since that [EASA] AD was issued, in the to detect cracks of the pressurized floor frame of Widespread Fatigue Damages of the unsafe condition described in the fittings at FR 36, renewal of the zone MCAI and service information analysis, the situation has been reassessed protective finish, and replacement of referenced above. We are proposing this and it has been decided to reclassify the modification, still stated as ‘optional’ fittings with new fittings. AD because we evaluated all pertinent Airbus has also issued Service information and determined an unsafe terminating action in EASA AD 2013–0226, to the status ‘mandatory’. Bulletin A320–57–1029, Revision 02, condition exists and is likely to exist or For the reasons described above, this dated June 16, 1999. The service develop on other products of the same [EASA] AD retains the requirements of EASA information describes procedures for type design. AD 2013–0226, which is superseded, but modification of the pressurized floor requires embodiment of the modification as fittings at FR 36. Costs of Compliance specified in Airbus SB A320–57–1029. This service information is reasonably available because the interested parties We estimate that this proposed AD You may examine the MCAI in the have access to it through their normal affects 13 airplanes of U.S. registry. We AD docket on the Internet at http:// course of business or by the means estimate the following costs to comply www.regulations.gov by searching for identified in the ADDRESSES section. with this proposed AD: ESTIMATED COSTS Action Labor cost Parts cost Cost per product Cost on U.S. operators Inspection ................. 11 work-hours × $85 per hour = $935 per $0 $935 per inspection $12,155 per inspection cycle. inspection cycle. cycle. Modification ............... 85 work-hours × $85 per hour = $7,225 ..... 5,320 12,545 ....................... 163,085. We have received no definitive data Compliance and Airworthiness List of Subjects in 14 CFR Part 39 that would enable us to provide cost Division, but during this transition estimates for the on-condition actions period, the Executive Director has Air transportation, Aircraft, Aviation specified in this proposed AD. delegated the authority to issue ADs safety, Incorporation by reference, applicable to transport category Safety. Authority for This Rulemaking airplanes to the Director of the System The Proposed Amendment Title 49 of the United States Code Oversight Division. specifies the FAA’s authority to issue Accordingly, under the authority rules on aviation safety. Subtitle I, Regulatory Findings delegated to me by the Administrator, section 106, describes the authority of the FAA proposes to amend 14 CFR part We determined that this proposed AD 39 as follows: the FAA Administrator. ‘‘Subtitle VII: would not have federalism implications Aviation Programs,’’ describes in more under Executive Order 13132. This detail the scope of the Agency’s PART 39—AIRWORTHINESS proposed AD would not have a DIRECTIVES authority. substantial direct effect on the States, on We are issuing this rulemaking under the relationship between the national the authority described in ‘‘Subtitle VII, ■ 1. The authority citation for part 39 Government and the States, or on the continues to read as follows: Part A, Subpart III, Section 44701: distribution of power and General requirements.’’ Under that Authority: 49 U.S.C. 106(g), 40113, 44701. responsibilities among the various section, Congress charges the FAA with levels of government. § 39.13 [Amended] promoting safe flight of civil aircraft in air commerce by prescribing regulations For the reasons discussed above, I ■ 2. The FAA amends § 39.13 by for practices, methods, and procedures certify this proposed regulation: removing Airworthiness Directive (AD) the Administrator finds necessary for 1. Is not a ‘‘significant regulatory 2016–02–01, Amendment 39–18380 (81 safety in air commerce. This regulation action’’ under Executive Order 12866; FR 4878, January 28, 2016), and adding is within the scope of that authority 2. Is not a ‘‘significant rule’’ under the the following new AD: because it addresses an unsafe condition DOT Regulatory Policies and Procedures Airbus: Docket No. FAA–2017–0716; Product that is likely to exist or develop on (44 FR 11034, February 26, 1979); Identifier 2016–NM–165–AD. mstockstill on DSK30JT082PROD with PROPOSALS products identified in this rulemaking action. 3. Will not affect intrastate aviation in (a) Comments Due Date This AD is issued in accordance with Alaska; and We must receive comments by September authority delegated by the Executive 4. Will not have a significant 29, 2017. Director, Aircraft Certification Service, economic impact, positive or negative, (b) Affected ADs as authorized by FAA Order 8000.51C. on a substantial number of small entities This AD replaces AD 2016–02–01, In accordance with that order, issuance under the criteria of the Regulatory Amendment 39–18380 (81 FR 4878, January of ADs is normally a function of the Flexibility Act. 28, 2016) (‘‘AD 2016–02–01’’). VerDate Sep<11>2014 16:14 Aug 14, 2017 Jkt 241001 PO 00000 Frm 00008 Fmt 4702 Sfmt 4702 E:\FR\FM\15AUP1.SGM 15AUP1

Federal Register / Vol. 82, No. 156 / Tuesday, August 15, 2017 / Proposed Rules 38621 (c) Applicability inspections required by paragraph (g) of this For information on the availability of this This AD applies to Airbus Model A320– AD for the modified airplane only. material at the FAA, call 425–227–1221. 211, –212, –214, and –231 airplanes, (i) Credit for Previous Actions Issued in Renton, Washington, on July 28, certificated in any category, manufacturer 2017. serial numbers up through 0104 inclusive. (1) This paragraph provides credit for the inspection required by paragraph (g) of this John P. Piccola, Jr., (d) Subject AD, if that inspection was performed before Acting Director, System Oversight Division, Air Transport Association (ATA) of the effective date of this AD using Airbus Aircraft Certification Service. America Code 57, Wings. Service Bulletin A320–57–1028, dated [FR Doc. 2017–16569 Filed 8–14–17; 8:45 am] August 12, 1991; or Revision 01, dated June BILLING CODE 4910–13–P (e) Reason 3, 2013. This proposed AD is intended to complete (2) This paragraph provides credit for the certain mandated programs intended to modification required by paragraph (h) of DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION support the airplane reaching its limit of this AD, if that modification was performed validity (LOV) of the engineering data that before the effective date of this AD using Federal Aviation Administration support the established structural Airbus Service Bulletin A320–57–1029, maintenance program. We are proposing this dated August 12, 1991; or Revision 01, dated AD to prevent fatigue cracking in the November 10, 1992. 14 CFR Part 39 pressurized floor fittings at frame 36, which (j) Other FAA AD Provisions [Docket No. FAA–2017–0777; Product could result in the reduced structural Identifier 2017–NM–050–AD] integrity of the floor fittings and subsequent The following provisions also apply to this depressurization of the fuselage. AD: RIN 2120–AA64 (1) Alternative Methods of Compliance (f) Compliance (AMOCs): The Manager, International Airworthiness Directives; Saab AB, Comply with this AD within the Section, Transport Standards Staff, FAA, has Saab Aeronautics (Formerly Known as compliance times specified, unless already the authority to approve AMOCs for this AD, Saab AB, Saab Aerosystems) done. if requested using the procedures found in 14 Airplanes CFR 39.19. In accordance with 14 CFR 39.19, (g) Inspection send your request to your principal inspector AGENCY: Federal Aviation (1) At the latest of the times specified in or local Flight Standards District Office, as Administration (FAA), DOT. paragraphs (g)(1)(i), (g)(1)(ii), and (g)(1)(iii) of appropriate. If sending information directly ACTION: Notice of proposed rulemaking this AD: Do a detailed inspection of the to the International Section, send it to the pressurized floor fittings at FR 36, in attention of the person identified in (NPRM). accordance with the Accomplishment paragraph (k)(2) of this AD. Information may SUMMARY: We propose to adopt a new Instructions of Airbus Service Bulletin A320– be emailed to 9-ANM-116-AMOC- 57–1028, Revision 02, dated June 3, 2013. REQUESTS@faa.gov. Before using any airworthiness directive (AD) for certain Repeat the inspection thereafter at intervals approved AMOC, notify your appropriate Saab AB, Saab Aeronautics Model not to exceed 9,300 flight cycles or 18,600 principal inspector, or lacking a principal SAAB 340B airplanes. This proposed flight hours, whichever occurs first. inspector, the manager of the local flight AD was prompted by reports of natural (i) Before exceeding 20,900 flight cycles or standards district office/certificate holding stall events in icing conditions, without 41,800 flight hours, whichever occurs first district office. prior stall warnings. This proposed AD since first flight of the airplane. (2) Contacting the Manufacturer: As of the would require modifying the stall (ii) Within 9,300 flight cycles or 18,600 effective date of this AD, for any requirement warning system, installing new stall flight cycles since the most recent inspection in this AD to obtain corrective actions from warning computers, and activating the accomplished in accordance with the a manufacturer, the action must be Accomplishment Instructions of Airbus accomplished using a method approved by stall warning system. We are proposing Service Bulletin A320–57–1028, Revision 02, the Manager, International Section, Transport this AD to address the unsafe condition dated June 3, 2013. Standards Branch, FAA; or the EASA; or on these products. (iii) Within 1,250 flight cycles or 2,500 Airbus’s DOA. If approved by the DOA, the DATES: We must receive comments on flight hours after March 3, 2016 (the effective approval must include the DOA-authorized this proposed AD by September 29, date of AD 2016–02–01), without exceeding signature. 2017. 12,000 flight cycles since the most recent (k) Related Information ADDRESSES: You may send comments, inspection accomplished in accordance with the Accomplishment Instructions of Airbus (1) Refer to Mandatory Continuing using the procedures found in 14 CFR Service Bulletin A320–57–1028, Revision 02, Airworthiness Information (MCAI) EASA AD 11.43 and 11.45, by any of the following dated June 3, 2013. 2016–0181, dated September 13, 2016, for methods: (2) If any crack is found during any related information. This MCAI may be • Federal eRulemaking Portal: Go to inspection required by paragraph (g)(1) of found in the AD docket on the Internet at http://www.regulations.gov. Follow the this AD: Before further flight, repair using a http://www.regulations.gov by searching for and locating Docket No. FAA–2017–0716. instructions for submitting comments. method approved by the Manager, (2) For more information about this AD, • Fax: 202–493–2251. International Section, Transport Standards Branch, FAA; or the European Aviation contact Sanjay Ralhan, Aerospace Engineer, • Mail: U.S. Department of Safety Agency (EASA); or Airbus’s EASA International Section, Transport Standards Transportation, Docket Operations, M– Design Organization Approval (DOA). Branch, FAA, 1601 Lind Avenue SW., 30, West Building Ground Floor, Room Renton, WA 98057–3356; telephone 425– W12–140, 1200 New Jersey Avenue SE., (h) Modification 227–1405; fax 425–227–1149. Washington, DC 20590. Before exceeding 48,000 total flight cycles (3) For service information identified in • Hand Delivery: Deliver to Mail mstockstill on DSK30JT082PROD with PROPOSALS or 96,000 total flight hours, whichever occurs this AD, contact Airbus, Airworthiness address above between 9 a.m. and 5 first since first flight of the airplane: Modify Office—EIAS, 1 Rond Point Maurice p.m., Monday through Friday, except (replace aluminum fittings with titanium Bellonte, 31707 Blagnac Cedex, France; Federal holidays. fittings) the pressurized floor fittings at FR telephone +33 5 61 93 36 96; fax +33 5 61 36, in accordance with the Accomplishment 93 44 51; email account.airworth-eas@ For service information identified in Instructions of Airbus Service Bulletin A320– airbus.com; Internet http://www.airbus.com. this NPRM, contact Saab AB, Saab 57–1029, Revision 02, dated June 16, 1999. You may view this referenced service Aeronautics, SE–581 88, Linköping, Accomplishment of this modification is information at the FAA, Transport Standards Sweden; telephone +46 13 18 5591; fax terminating action for the repetitive Branch, 1601 Lind Avenue SW., Renton, WA. +46 13 18 4874; email VerDate Sep<11>2014 16:14 Aug 14, 2017 Jkt 241001 PO 00000 Frm 00009 Fmt 4702 Sfmt 4702 E:\FR\FM\15AUP1.SGM 15AUP1


Document Created: 2017-08-15 01:12:29
Document Modified: 2017-08-15 01:12:29
CategoryRegulatory Information
CollectionFederal Register
sudoc ClassAE 2.7:
GS 4.107:
AE 2.106:
PublisherOffice of the Federal Register, National Archives and Records Administration
SectionProposed Rules
ActionNotice of proposed rulemaking (NPRM).
DatesWe must receive comments on this proposed AD by September 29, 2017.
ContactSanjay Ralhan, Aerospace Engineer, International Section, Transport Standards Branch, FAA, 1601 Lind Avenue SW., Renton, WA 98057-3356; telephone 425-227-1405; fax 425-227- 1149.
FR Citation82 FR 38618 
RIN Number2120-AA64
CFR AssociatedAir Transportation; Aircraft; Aviation Safety; Incorporation by Reference and Safety
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