82 FR 39513 - Airworthiness Directives; The Boeing Company Airplanes
DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION
Federal Aviation Administration Federal Register Volume 82, Issue 160 (August 21, 2017)
Federal Aviation Administration
Federal Register Volume 82, Issue 160 (August 21, 2017)
| Page Range | 39513-39517 | |
| FR Document | 2017-16779 |
[Federal Register Volume 82, Number 160 (Monday, August 21, 2017)] [Rules and Regulations] [Pages 39513-39517] From the Federal Register Online [www.thefederalregister.org] [FR Doc No: 2017-16779] ----------------------------------------------------------------------- DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION Federal Aviation Administration 14 CFR Part 39 [Docket No. FAA-2016-9520; Product Identifier 2016-NM-163-AD; Amendment 39-18987; AD 2017-16-10] RIN 2120-AA64 Airworthiness Directives; The Boeing Company Airplanes AGENCY: Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), DOT. ACTION: Final rule. ----------------------------------------------------------------------- SUMMARY: We are adopting a new airworthiness directive (AD) for all The Boeing Company Model 777 airplanes. This AD was prompted by reports of cracks on the underwing longerons. This AD requires repetitive inspections of the left and right side underwing longerons for any crack, and related investigative and corrective actions if necessary. We are issuing this AD to address the unsafe condition on these products. DATES: This AD is effective September 25, 2017. The Director of the Federal Register approved the incorporation by reference of certain publications listed in this AD as of September 25, 2017. [[Page 39514]] ADDRESSES: For service information identified in this final rule, contact Boeing Commercial Airplanes, Attention: Contractual & Data Services (C&DS), 2600 Westminster Blvd., MC 110-SK57, Seal Beach, CA 90740-5600; telephone: 562-797-1717; Internet: https://www.myboeingfleet.com. You may view this 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. It is also available on the Internet at http://www.regulations.gov by searching for and locating Docket No. FAA-2016- 9520. 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- 9520; 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 final rule, the regulatory evaluation, any comments received, and other information. The address for the Docket Office (phone: 800-647-5527) is Docket Management Facility, U.S. Department of Transportation, Docket Operations, M-30, West Building Ground Floor, Room W12-140, 1200 New Jersey Avenue SE., Washington, DC 20590. FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Eric Lin, Aerospace Engineer, Airframe Section, FAA, Seattle ACO Branch, 1601 Lind Avenue SW., Renton, WA 98057-3356; phone: 425-917-6412; fax: 425-917-6590; email: [email protected]. SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: Discussion We issued a notice of proposed rulemaking (NPRM) to amend 14 CFR part 39 by adding an AD that would apply to all The Boeing Company Model 777 airplanes. The NPRM published in the Federal Register on January 3, 2017 (82 FR 54) (``the NPRM''). The NPRM was prompted by reports of cracks on the underwing longerons. The NPRM proposed to require repetitive inspections of the left and right side underwing longerons for any crack, and related investigative and corrective actions if necessary. We are issuing this AD to detect and correct cracks in the underwing longerons, which could result in fuel leakage into the forward cargo area and consequent increased risk of a fire or, in a more severe case, could adversely affect the structural integrity of the airplane. New Service Information Since we issued the NPRM, Boeing has released Boeing Alert Service Bulletin 777-53A0081, Revision 1, dated May 1, 2017. In the NPRM, we refer to Boeing Alert Service Bulletin 777-53A0081, dated September 8, 2016, as the appropriate source of service information. Boeing Alert Service Bulletin 777-53A0081, Revision 1, dated May 1, 2017, corrects typographical errors, including errors in steps 3.c.(1) and 3.c.(2) of Part 1 of the Accomplishment Instructions, and provides additional access and inspection procedures. Boeing Alert Service Bulletin 777- 53A0081, Revision 1, dated May 1, 2017, also adds a surface high frequency eddy current (HFEC) inspection of the external surface of the fuselage skin for any crack, to the inspection of the fuselage skin that is part of the underwing longeron replacement procedure specified in Part 8 and Part 9 of the Accomplishment Instructions. No additional work is necessary on airplanes on which the inspection of the fuselage skin was already done as specified in Boeing Alert Service Bulletin 777-53A0081, dated September 8, 2016. We have determined that Revision 1 is also an appropriate source of service information and have revised this AD accordingly. Comments We gave the public the opportunity to participate in developing this AD. The following presents the comments received on the NPRM and the FAA's response to each comment. Support for the NPRM Boeing expressed support for the NPRM. Request To Delay AD Action Air France requested that we delay our AD action. The commenter pointed out that the manufacturer has not determined the root cause of underwing longeron failure and that because longeron cracking is a design defect, a design correction should only be implemented once during the life of the airplane. The commenter also pointed out that the service information would require multiple repairs that could be considered design corrections. The commenter stated that repetitive inspections should not be mandated until a final fix (design improvement) is available and that Air France believes that the safety concern (as stated in the service information) of fuel leaking into the forward cargo area could be addressed by A-Check level inspections. The commenter also indicated that they believe the structural integrity safety concern (as stated in the service information) could be addressed by existing inspections, specified in the Maintenance Planning Document (MPD), that are able to detect cracked longerons and surrounding related damages and are already continuously performed on the fleet. We disagree with the commenter's request to delay this AD. The existing MPD inspections have been reviewed and do not adequately address the unsafe condition identified in this AD. Additionally, the determinations of the unsafe conditions, mitigating action, and compliance times of this AD have been coordinated with the manufacturer, and we have determined that the actions specified in this AD are required to address the unsafe condition. We have not changed this AD in this regard. Request To Extend Initial Compliance Time and Repeat Intervals Air France requested that we increase the compliance time for the initial inspection and include independent compliance times for the left and right underwing longeron inspections. United Airlines (UAL), Air France, All Nippon Airways (ANA), and Cathay Pacific Airways (CPA) also requested that we extend the intervals for the repetitive inspections to coincide with either A or C-Check level inspections. Additionally, ANA expressed concern that if cracking is found during the repetitive inspections then the consequent repairs could inadvertently extend the amount of time that the airplane is on the ground. UAL and CPA also noted the proposed compliance time would result in operational disruptions if not aligned with a C-check. Air France stated there are already inspections contained in the MPD and that the initial inspection compliance time should take into account when cracking was found. Air France also stated that there is no safety issue when there is a cracked underwing longeron and there is no fuel leak into the forward cargo area or a structural integrity issue. We disagree with the commenters' requests. As stated previously, the existing MPD inspections have been reviewed and do not provide an acceptable level of safety for the affected airplanes for the identified unsafe condition. We have determined that the compliance times specified in this AD are necessary to address the identified unsafe conditions. However, we will consider requests for approval of alternative methods of compliance (AMOC), including extensions of the compliance times, if sufficient data is [[Page 39515]] submitted to substantiate that a different compliance time will provide an acceptable level of safety. We have not changed this AD in this regard. Request To Exclude Certain Airplanes From the Applicability ANA requested that we exclude Boeing Model 777-200 airplanes that do not have a center fuel tank from the applicability of the proposed AD. ANA pointed out that since the Boeing Model 777-200 airplanes do not have a center fuel tank, a fuel leak from the center fuel tank and subsequent possible fire cannot occur. We disagree with the request to exclude Boeing Model 777-200 airplanes from the applicability of this AD. The possibility of a fuel leak into the forward cargo area and subsequent possible fire is not the only safety concern. Severe cases of uncorrected longeron cracking could adversely affect the structural integrity of the airplane. As stated previously, the determinations of the unsafe conditions, mitigating action, and compliance times in this AD have been coordinated with the manufacturer. We have not changed this AD in this regard. Request To Include Alternative Modified Repetitive Inspection Program ANA requested that we include an alternative modified repetitive inspection program in the NPRM. ANA specifically requested that the alternative modified repetitive inspection program match with their C- check level inspection program for the non-destructive inspection and for the detailed inspection at the ``line maintenance'' interval within times since certain inspections. ANA pointed out that the manufacturer has agreed that the requested alternative inspection program meets the inspection specifications in Boeing Alert Service Bulletin 777-53A0081, dated September 8, 2016. We disagree with the request to include an alternative modified repetitive inspection program in this AD. The commenter did not provide technical justification for such a change. We have determined that the compliance times specified in this AD are necessary to address the identified unsafe conditions. However, we will consider requests for approval of AMOCs, including extensions of the compliance times, if sufficient data is submitted to substantiate that a different compliance time will provide an acceptable level of safety. Additionally, operators may do the required inspections earlier than the compliance times required by the AD. For the inspection options specified in the Boeing Alert Service Bulletin 777-53A0081, an operator can change an inspection method at their discretion to meet operational needs, and the previous inspection determines the interval to the next inspection. We have not changed this AD in this regard. Request To Mandate Repair and Future Modification (for Terminating Action) as Identical Procedures Emirates requested that we mandate repair and future modification (for terminating action) as identical procedures to avoid incurring duplicate expenses. Emirates mentioned that the repair work is extensive (required resources, materials, and ground time) and the repair kit is expensive. Emirates pointed out that the manufacturer is expected to issue a modification service bulletin to terminate the inspection specified in Boeing Alert Service Bulletin 777-53A0081, dated September 8, 2016, and that the FAA is expected to mandate the terminating modification. The commenter also pointed out that the modification is expected to be extensive and require a modification kit that is also expensive, and concluded that the requirement of multiple kits for the repair and future planned modification would cause operators to incur duplicate expenses. We disagree with the request because there is currently no modification kit available even though it might be possible to mitigate the unsafe condition through a modification to the underwing longeron. The inspections and repairs required by this AD are necessary to provide an acceptable level of safety for the affected airplanes. However, as stated previously, we will consider requests for AMOCs, including those that allow for revised service information, repairs, or terminating actions, if sufficient data is submitted to substantiate that different service information, repairs, or terminating actions will provide an acceptable level of safety. We have not changed this AD in this regard. Request To Specify Alternate Special Tools ANA requested that we specifically include certain alternate special tools in the NPRM to measure the thickness of the fuel barrier sealants. The commenter indicated that they do not have the special tools that are specified in the airplane maintenance manual (AMM) (which is specified as an accepted procedure to repair the secondary fuel barrier in Boeing Alert Service Bulletin 777-53A0081, dated September 8, 2016). We disagree that alternate special tools should be specified in this AD because this AD does not mandate using a specific tool. This AD requires operators to perform inspections and repairs in accordance with Boeing Alert Service Bulletin 777-53A0081, dated September 8, 2016; or Boeing Alert Service Bulletin 777-53A0081, Revision 1, dated May 1, 2017. Boeing Alert Service Bulletin 777-53A0081, dated September 8, 2016; and Boeing Alert Service Bulletin 777-53A0081, Revision 1, dated May 1, 2017, refer to a specific procedure in the AMM as an accepted procedure to repair the secondary fuel barrier. However, we do not mandate the AMM procedure in this AD; therefore, operators may repair the secondary fuel barrier using accepted methods in accordance with their maintenance or inspection program. We have not changed this AD in this regard. Request To Allow Simultaneous Replacement ANA requested that we allow simultaneous replacement of the longerons rather than completing one side before beginning work on the opposite side. ANA indicated that they prefer to start work on the opposite side when 50% final fastener installation has been completed on the initial longeron replacement. ANA also pointed out that the manufacturer has agreed that this method is structurally acceptable. We disagree that simultaneous replacement of the longerons should be included in this AD. Boeing Alert Service Bulletin 777-53A0081, dated September 8, 2016; and Boeing Alert Service Bulletin 777-53A0081, Revision 1, dated May 1, 2017; specify that only one underwing longeron is to be removed and replaced at a time. However, as stated previously, we will consider requests for AMOCs if sufficient data is submitted to substantiate that a different method of completion will provide an acceptable level of safety. We have not changed this AD in this regard. Conclusion We reviewed the relevant data, considered the comments received, and determined that air safety and the public interest require adopting this final rule with the changes described previously and minor editorial changes. We have determined that these minor changes:Are consistent with the intent that was proposed in the NPRM for correcting the unsafe condition; and Do not add any additional burden upon the public than was already proposed in the NPRM. [[Page 39516]] We also determined that these changes will not increase the economic burden on any operator or increase the scope of this final rule. Related Service Information Under 1 CFR Part 51 We reviewed Boeing Alert Service Bulletin 777-53A0081, dated September 8, 2016; and Boeing Alert Service Bulletin 777-53A0081, Revision 1, dated May 1, 2017. This service information describes procedures for repetitive detailed inspections, ultrasonic inspections, and HFEC inspections of the left and right side longerons, and related investigative and corrective actions if necessary. Boeing Alert Service Bulletin 777-53A0081, Revision 1, dated May 1, 2017, also includes an additional surface HFEC inspection of the external surface of the fuselage skin. 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 201 airplanes of U.S. registry. We estimate the following costs to comply with this AD: Estimated Costs ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Cost on U.S. Action Labor cost Parts cost Cost per product operators ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Option 1: Detailed Inspection........ 4 work-hours x $85 per $0 $340 per $68,340 per hour = $340 per inspection cycle. inspection cycle. inspection cycle. Option 2: Detailed and HFEC or 12 work-hours x $85 per $0 $1,020 per $205,020 per Ultrasonic Inspection. hour = $1,020 per inspection cycle. inspection cycle. inspection cycle. ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- We estimate the following costs to do any necessary replacements that are required based on the results of the inspection. We have no way of determining the number of aircraft that might need these replacements: On-Condition Costs ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Action Labor cost Parts cost Cost per product ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Left side or right side longeron 102 work-hours x $85 per $31,000 per side.... $39,670 per side. replacement. hour = $8,670 per side. ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- We have received no definitive data that would enable us to provide cost estimates for the on-condition actions, other than the replacement, specified in this AD. According to the manufacturer, some of the costs of this AD may be covered under warranty, thereby reducing the cost impact on affected individuals. We do not control warranty coverage for affected individuals. As a result, we have included all costs in our cost estimate. 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 This AD will not have federalism implications under Executive Order 13132. This AD will not have a substantial direct effect on the States, on the relationship between the national government and the States, or on the distribution of power and responsibilities among the various levels of government. For the reasons discussed above, I certify that this AD: (1) Is not a ``significant regulatory action'' under Executive Order 12866, (2) Is not a ``significant rule'' under DOT Regulatory Policies and Procedures (44 FR 11034, February 26, 1979), (3) Will not affect intrastate aviation in Alaska, and (4) Will not have a significant economic impact, positive or negative, on a substantial number of small entities under the criteria of the Regulatory Flexibility Act. List of Subjects in 14 CFR Part 39 Air transportation, Aircraft, Aviation safety, Incorporation by reference, Safety. Adoption of the Amendment Accordingly, under the authority delegated to me by the Administrator, the FAA amends 14 CFR part 39 as follows: PART 39--AIRWORTHINESS DIRECTIVES 0 1. The authority citation for part 39 continues to read as follows: Authority: 49 U.S.C. 106(g), 40113, 44701. Sec. 39.13 [Amended] 0 2. The FAA amends Sec. 39.13 by adding the following new airworthiness directive (AD): [[Page 39517]] 2017-16-10 The Boeing Company: Amendment 39-18987; Docket No. FAA- 2016-9520; Product Identifier 2016-NM-163-AD. (a) Effective Date This AD is effective September 25, 2017. (b) Affected ADs None. (c) Applicability This AD applies to all The Boeing Company Model 777-200, -200LR, -300, -300ER, and 777F series airplanes, certificated in any category. (d) Subject Air Transport Association (ATA) of America Code 53, Fuselage and 57, Wings. (e) Unsafe Condition This AD was prompted by reports of cracks on the underwing longerons. We are issuing this AD to detect and correct cracks in the underwing longerons, which could result in fuel leakage into the forward cargo area and consequent increased risk of a fire or, in a more severe case, could adversely affect the structural integrity of the airplane. (f) Compliance Comply with this AD within the compliance times specified, unless already done. (g) Inspections Except as specified in paragraph (i)(1) of this AD, at the applicable times specified in tables 1 through 6 of paragraph 1.E., ``Compliance,'' of Boeing Alert Service Bulletin 777-53A0081, dated September 8, 2016: Do detailed inspections for any crack of the left and right side underwing longerons; or do detailed inspections, and high frequency eddy current (HFEC) or ultrasonic inspections, as applicable, for any crack of the left and right side underwing longerons; and do all applicable related investigative and corrective actions; in accordance with the Accomplishment Instructions of Boeing Alert Service Bulletin 777-53A0081, dated September 8, 2016, or Boeing Alert Service Bulletin 777-53A0081, Revision 1, dated May 1, 2017, except as required by paragraph (i)(2) of this AD. Do all applicable related investigative and corrective actions before further flight. Repeat the inspections thereafter at the times specified in tables 1 through 6 of paragraph 1.E., ``Compliance,'' of Boeing Alert Service Bulletin 777-53A0081, dated September 8, 2016, as applicable. Replacing an underwing longeron, including doing all applicable related investigative and corrective actions, in accordance with the Accomplishment Instructions of Boeing Alert Service Bulletin 777-53A0081, dated September 8, 2016; or Boeing Alert Service Bulletin 777-53A0081, Revision 1, dated May 1, 2017; except as required by paragraph (i)(2) of this AD, terminates the repetitive inspections required by this paragraph for that longeron only. (h) Repetitive Post-Replacement Inspections and Corrective Actions For airplanes on which any longeron replacement has been done as specified in Boeing Alert Service Bulletin 777-53A0081: At the applicable times specified in tables 7 through 14 of paragraph 1.E., ``Compliance,'' of Boeing Alert Service Bulletin 777-53A0081, dated September 8, 2016, do detailed inspections of all replaced longerons for any crack, or do detailed inspections and ultrasonic inspections of all replaced longerons for any crack, and do all applicable corrective actions; in accordance with the Accomplishment Instructions of Boeing Alert Service Bulletin 777-53A0081, dated September 8, 2016; or Boeing Alert Service Bulletin 777-53A0081, Revision 1, dated May 1, 2017; except as required by paragraph (i)(2) of this AD. Do all applicable corrective actions before further flight. Repeat the inspections thereafter at intervals not to exceed the applicable time specified in tables 7 through 14 of paragraph 1.E., ``Compliance,'' of Boeing Alert Service Bulletin 777-53A0081, dated September 8, 2016. (i) Service Information Exceptions (1) Where Boeing Alert Service Bulletin 777-53A0081, dated September 8, 2016, specifies a compliance time ``after the issue date of this service bulletin,'' this AD requires compliance within the specified compliance time after the effective date of this AD. (2) Where Boeing Alert Service Bulletin 777-53A0081, dated September 8, 2016; or Boeing Alert Service Bulletin 777-53A0081, Revision 1, dated May 1, 2017; specifies to contact Boeing for appropriate action: Before further flight, repair using a method approved in accordance with the procedures specified in paragraph (j) of this AD. (j) Alternative Methods of Compliance (AMOCs) (1) The Manager, Seattle ACO Branch, FAA, has the authority to approve AMOCs for this AD, if requested using the procedures found in 14 CFR 39.19. In accordance with 14 CFR 39.19, send your request to your principal inspector or local Flight Standards District Office, as appropriate. If sending information directly to the manager of the certification office, send it to the attention of the person identified in paragraph (k) of this AD. Information may be emailed to: [email protected]. (2) Before using any approved AMOC, notify your appropriate principal inspector, or lacking a principal inspector, the manager of the local flight standards district office/certificate holding district office. (3) An AMOC that provides an acceptable level of safety may be used for any repair, modification, or alteration required by this AD if it is approved by the Boeing Commercial Airplanes Organization Designation Authorization (ODA) that has been authorized by the Manager, Seattle ACO Branch, to make those findings. To be approved, the repair method, modification deviation, or alteration deviation must meet the certification basis of the airplane, and the approval must specifically refer to this AD. (4) Except as required by paragraph (i)(2) of this AD: For service information that contains steps that are labeled as Required for Compliance (RC), the provisions of paragraphs (j)(4)(i) and (j)(4)(ii) of this AD apply. (i) The steps labeled as RC, including substeps under an RC step and any figures identified in an RC step, must be done to comply with the AD. If a step or sub-step is labeled ``RC Exempt,'' then the RC requirement is removed from that step or sub-step. An AMOC is required for any deviations to RC steps, including substeps and identified figures. (ii) Steps not labeled as RC may be deviated from using accepted methods in accordance with the operator's maintenance or inspection program without obtaining approval of an AMOC, provided the RC steps, including substeps and identified figures, can still be done as specified, and the airplane can be put back in an airworthy condition. (k) Related Information For more information about this AD, contact Eric Lin, Aerospace Engineer, Airframe Section, FAA, Seattle ACO Branch, 1601 Lind Avenue SW., Renton, WA 98057-3356; phone: 425-917-6412; fax: 425- 917-6590; email: [email protected]. (l) Material Incorporated by Reference (1) The Director of the Federal Register approved the incorporation by reference (IBR) of the service information listed in this paragraph under 5 U.S.C. 552(a) and 1 CFR part 51. (2) You must use this service information as applicable to do the actions required by this AD, unless the AD specifies otherwise. (i) Boeing Alert Service Bulletin 777-53A0081, dated September 8, 2016. (ii) Boeing Alert Service Bulletin 777-53A0081, Revision 1, dated May 1, 2017. (3) For Boeing service information identified in this AD, contact Boeing Commercial Airplanes, Attention: Contractual & Data Services (C&DS), 2600 Westminster Blvd., MC 110-SK57, Seal Beach, CA 90740-5600; telephone: 562-797-1717; Internet: https://www.myboeingfleet.com. (4) You may view this 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. (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 August 2, 2017. Jeffrey E. Duven, Director, System Oversight Division, Aircraft Certification Service. [FR Doc. 2017-16779 Filed 8-18-17; 8:45 am] BILLING CODE 4910-13-P
![Federal Register / Vol. 82, No. 160 / Monday, August 21, 2017 / Rules and Regulations 39513
§ 39.13 [Amended] (h) Terminating Action (2) You must use this service information
Accomplishing the repair in accordance as applicable to do the actions required by
■ 2. The FAA amends § 39.13 by adding with the Accomplishment Instructions of this AD, unless the AD specifies otherwise.
the following new airworthiness Boeing Alert Service Bulletin 737–53A1357, (i) Boeing Alert Service Bulletin 737–
directive (AD): dated August 9, 2016, terminates the 53A1357, dated August 9, 2016.
inspection requirements of paragraph (g) of (ii) Reserved.
2017–17–06 The Boeing Company: (3) For service information identified in
Amendment 39–18996; Docket No. this AD.
this AD, contact Boeing Commercial
FAA–2017–0131; Product Identifier (i) Alternative Methods of Compliance Airplanes, Attention: Contractual & Data
2016–NM–186–AD. (AMOCs) Services (C&DS), 2600 Westminster Blvd.,
(a) Effective Date (1) The Manager, Los Angeles ACO Branch, MC 110–SK57, Seal Beach, CA 90740–5600;
FAA, has the authority to approve AMOCs telephone 562–797–1717; Internet https://
This AD is effective September 25, 2017. for this AD, if requested using the procedures www.myboeingfleet.com.
(b) Affected ADs found in 14 CFR 39.19. In accordance with (4) You may view this service information
14 CFR 39.19, send your request to your at the FAA, Transport Standards Branch,
None. principal inspector or local Flight Standards 1601 Lind Avenue SW., Renton, WA. For
(c) Applicability District Office, as appropriate. If sending information on the availability of this
information directly to the manager of the material at the FAA, call 425–227–1221.
(1) This AD applies to The Boeing certification office, send it to the attention of (5) You may view this service information
Company Model 737–300, –400, and –500 the person identified in paragraph (j) of this that is incorporated by reference at the
series airplanes, certificated in any category, AD. Information may be emailed to: 9-ANM- National Archives and Records
as identified in Boeing Alert Service Bulletin LAACO-AMOC-Requests@faa.gov. Administration (NARA). For information on
737–53A1357, dated August 9, 2016. (2) Before using any approved AMOC, the availability of this material at NARA, call
(2) Installation of Supplemental Type notify your appropriate principal inspector, 202–741–6030, or go to: http://
Certificate (STC) ST01219SE (http:// or lacking a principal inspector, the manager www.archives.gov/federal-register/cfr/ibr-
rgl.faa.gov/Regulatory_and_Guidance_ of the local flight standards district office/ locations.html.
Library/rgstc.nsf/0/ebd1cec7b301293e86257 certificate holding district office.
cb30045557a/$FILE/ST01219SE.pdf) does (3) An AMOC that provides an acceptable Issued in Renton, Washington, on August
not affect the ability to accomplish the level of safety may be used for any repair, 8, 2017.
actions required by this AD. Therefore, for modification, or alteration required by this Dionne Palermo,
airplanes on which STC ST01219SE is AD if it is approved by the Boeing Acting Director, System Oversight Division,
installed, a ‘‘change in product’’ alternative Commercial Airplanes Organization Aircraft Certification Service.
method of compliance (AMOC) approval Designation Authorization (ODA) that has
[FR Doc. 2017–17202 Filed 8–18–17; 8:45 am]
request is not necessary to comply with the been authorized by the Manager, Los Angeles
requirements of 14 CFR 39.17. ACO Branch, to make those findings. To be BILLING CODE 4910–13–P
approved, the repair method, modification
(d) Subject deviation, or alteration deviation must meet
Air Transport Association (ATA) of the certification basis of the airplane, and the DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION
America Code 53; Fuselage. approval must specifically refer to this AD.
(4) For service information that contains Federal Aviation Administration
(e) Unsafe Condition steps that are labeled as Required for
This AD was prompted by a report of Compliance (RC), the provisions of 14 CFR Part 39
fatigue cracking found in a certain fuselage paragraphs (i)(4)(i) and (i)(4)(ii) of this AD
frame common to the water tank support apply. [Docket No. FAA–2016–9520; Product
intercostal clip located between certain (i) The steps labeled as RC, including Identifier 2016–NM–163–AD; Amendment
stringers. We are issuing this AD to detect substeps under an RC step and any figures 39–18987; AD 2017–16–10]
and correct cracking, which could grow in identified in an RC step, must be done to
comply with the AD. If a step or substep is RIN 2120–AA64
size and result in a severed frame. Multiple
labeled ‘‘RC Exempt,’’ then the RC
adjacent severed frames would result in
requirement is removed from that step or Airworthiness Directives; The Boeing
reduced structural integrity of the airplane.
substep. An AMOC is required for any Company Airplanes
(f) Compliance deviations to RC steps, including substeps
and identified figures. AGENCY: Federal Aviation
Comply with this AD within the
compliance times specified, unless already (ii) Steps not labeled as RC may be Administration (FAA), DOT.
deviated from using accepted methods in ACTION: Final rule.
done.
accordance with the operator’s maintenance
(g) Inspection or inspection program without obtaining SUMMARY: We are adopting a new
Before the accumulation of 34,000 total approval of an AMOC, provided the RC steps, airworthiness directive (AD) for all The
flight cycles or within 6,000 flight cycles including substeps and identified figures, can
still be done as specified, and the airplane
Boeing Company Model 777 airplanes.
after the effective date of this AD, whichever This AD was prompted by reports of
can be put back in an airworthy condition.
occurs later, do a high frequency eddy cracks on the underwing longerons.
current (HFEC) inspection for any cracking in (j) Related Information This AD requires repetitive inspections
the fuselage frame at station (STA) 947.5 For more information about this AD, of the left and right side underwing
common to the water tank support intercostal contact Galib Abumeri, Aerospace Engineer,
clip located between stringers S–24R and S– longerons for any crack, and related
Airframe Section, FAA, Los Angeles ACO investigative and corrective actions if
25R, in accordance with the Accomplishment Branch, 3960 Paramount Boulevard,
Instructions of Boeing Alert Service Bulletin necessary. We are issuing this AD to
Lakewood, CA 90712–4137; phone: 562–627–
737–53A1357, dated August 9, 2016. 5324; fax: 562–627–5210; email: address the unsafe condition on these
sradovich on DSK3GMQ082PROD with RULES
(1) If no cracking is found, repeat the galib.abumeri@faa.gov. products.
inspection thereafter at intervals not to
exceed 12,000 flight cycles. (k) Material Incorporated by Reference DATES: This AD is effective September
(2) If any cracking is found: Before further (1) The Director of the Federal Register
25, 2017.
flight, repair in accordance with the approved the incorporation by reference The Director of the Federal Register
Accomplishment Instructions of Boeing Alert (IBR) of the service information listed in this approved the incorporation by reference
Service Bulletin 737–53A1357, dated August paragraph under 5 U.S.C. 552(a) and 1 CFR of certain publications listed in this AD
9, 2016. part 51. as of September 25, 2017.
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![39516 Federal Register / Vol. 82, No. 160 / Monday, August 21, 2017 / Rules and Regulations
We also determined that these information describes procedures for This service information is reasonably
changes will not increase the economic repetitive detailed inspections, available because the interested parties
burden on any operator or increase the ultrasonic inspections, and HFEC have access to it through their normal
scope of this final rule. inspections of the left and right side course of business or by the means
Related Service Information Under 1 longerons, and related investigative and identified in the ADDRESSES section.
CFR Part 51 corrective actions if necessary. Boeing
Costs of Compliance
Alert Service Bulletin 777–53A0081,
We reviewed Boeing Alert Service
Revision 1, dated May 1, 2017, also We estimate that this AD affects 201
Bulletin 777–53A0081, dated September
8, 2016; and Boeing Alert Service includes an additional surface HFEC airplanes of U.S. registry. We estimate
Bulletin 777–53A0081, Revision 1, inspection of the external surface of the the following costs to comply with this
dated May 1, 2017. This service fuselage skin. AD:
ESTIMATED COSTS
Cost on U.S.
Action Labor cost Parts cost Cost per product operators
Option 1:
Detailed Inspection .......................... 4 work-hours × $85 per hour = $340 $0 $340 per inspection $68,340 per inspec-
per inspection cycle. cycle. tion cycle.
Option 2:
Detailed and HFEC or Ultrasonic 12 work-hours × $85 per hour = $1,020 $0 $1,020 per inspec- $205,020 per in-
Inspection. per inspection cycle. tion cycle. spection cycle.
We estimate the following costs to do required based on the results of the determining the number of aircraft that
any necessary replacements that are inspection. We have no way of might need these replacements:
ON-CONDITION COSTS
Action Labor cost Parts cost Cost per product
Left side or right side longeron replacement ..... 102 work-hours × $85 per hour = $8,670 per $31,000 per side ......... $39,670 per side.
side.
We have received no definitive data is within the scope of that authority (2) Is not a ‘‘significant rule’’ under
that would enable us to provide cost because it addresses an unsafe condition DOT Regulatory Policies and Procedures
estimates for the on-condition actions, that is likely to exist or develop on (44 FR 11034, February 26, 1979),
other than the replacement, specified in products identified in this rulemaking (3) Will not affect intrastate aviation
this AD. action. in Alaska, and
According to the manufacturer, some This AD is issued in accordance with (4) Will not have a significant
of the costs of this AD may be covered authority delegated by the Executive economic impact, positive or negative,
under warranty, thereby reducing the Director, Aircraft Certification Service, on a substantial number of small entities
cost impact on affected individuals. We as authorized by FAA Order 8000.51C. under the criteria of the Regulatory
do not control warranty coverage for In accordance with that order, issuance Flexibility Act.
affected individuals. As a result, we of ADs is normally a function of the
have included all costs in our cost Compliance and Airworthiness List of Subjects in 14 CFR Part 39
estimate. Division, but during this transition Air transportation, Aircraft, Aviation
period, the Executive Director has safety, Incorporation by reference,
Authority for This Rulemaking
delegated the authority to issue ADs Safety.
Title 49 of the United States Code applicable to transport category
specifies the FAA’s authority to issue Adoption of the Amendment
airplanes to the Director of the System
rules on aviation safety. Subtitle I, Oversight Division. Accordingly, under the authority
section 106, describes the authority of delegated to me by the Administrator,
the FAA Administrator. Subtitle VII: Regulatory Findings the FAA amends 14 CFR part 39 as
Aviation Programs, describes in more This AD will not have federalism follows:
detail the scope of the Agency’s implications under Executive Order
authority. 13132. This AD will not have a PART 39—AIRWORTHINESS
We are issuing this rulemaking under substantial direct effect on the States, on DIRECTIVES
the authority described in Subtitle VII, the relationship between the national
Part A, Subpart III, Section 44701: government and the States, or on the ■ 1. The authority citation for part 39
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‘‘General requirements.’’ Under that distribution of power and continues to read as follows:
section, Congress charges the FAA with responsibilities among the various Authority: 49 U.S.C. 106(g), 40113, 44701.
promoting safe flight of civil aircraft in levels of government.
§ 39.13 [Amended]
air commerce by prescribing regulations For the reasons discussed above, I
for practices, methods, and procedures certify that this AD: ■ 2. The FAA amends § 39.13 by adding
the Administrator finds necessary for (1) Is not a ‘‘significant regulatory the following new airworthiness
safety in air commerce. This regulation action’’ under Executive Order 12866, directive (AD):
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![Federal Register / Vol. 82, No. 160 / Monday, August 21, 2017 / Rules and Regulations 39517
2017–16–10 The Boeing Company: Boeing Alert Service Bulletin 777–53A0081: paragraphs (j)(4)(i) and (j)(4)(ii) of this AD
Amendment 39–18987; Docket No. At the applicable times specified in tables 7 apply.
FAA–2016–9520; Product Identifier through 14 of paragraph 1.E., ‘‘Compliance,’’ (i) The steps labeled as RC, including
2016–NM–163–AD. of Boeing Alert Service Bulletin 777– substeps under an RC step and any figures
53A0081, dated September 8, 2016, do identified in an RC step, must be done to
(a) Effective Date
detailed inspections of all replaced longerons
This AD is effective September 25, 2017. comply with the AD. If a step or sub-step is
for any crack, or do detailed inspections and
labeled ‘‘RC Exempt,’’ then the RC
(b) Affected ADs ultrasonic inspections of all replaced
longerons for any crack, and do all applicable requirement is removed from that step or
None. corrective actions; in accordance with the sub-step. An AMOC is required for any
(c) Applicability Accomplishment Instructions of Boeing Alert deviations to RC steps, including substeps
Service Bulletin 777–53A0081, dated and identified figures.
This AD applies to all The Boeing
September 8, 2016; or Boeing Alert Service (ii) Steps not labeled as RC may be
Company Model 777–200, –200LR, –300,
–300ER, and 777F series airplanes, Bulletin 777–53A0081, Revision 1, dated deviated from using accepted methods in
certificated in any category. May 1, 2017; except as required by paragraph accordance with the operator’s maintenance
(i)(2) of this AD. Do all applicable corrective or inspection program without obtaining
(d) Subject actions before further flight. Repeat the approval of an AMOC, provided the RC steps,
Air Transport Association (ATA) of inspections thereafter at intervals not to including substeps and identified figures, can
America Code 53, Fuselage and 57, Wings. exceed the applicable time specified in tables
still be done as specified, and the airplane
7 through 14 of paragraph 1.E.,
(e) Unsafe Condition ‘‘Compliance,’’ of Boeing Alert Service can be put back in an airworthy condition.
This AD was prompted by reports of cracks Bulletin 777–53A0081, dated September 8, (k) Related Information
on the underwing longerons. We are issuing 2016.
this AD to detect and correct cracks in the For more information about this AD,
(i) Service Information Exceptions contact Eric Lin, Aerospace Engineer,
underwing longerons, which could result in
fuel leakage into the forward cargo area and (1) Where Boeing Alert Service Bulletin Airframe Section, FAA, Seattle ACO Branch,
consequent increased risk of a fire or, in a 777–53A0081, dated September 8, 2016, 1601 Lind Avenue SW., Renton, WA 98057–
more severe case, could adversely affect the specifies a compliance time ‘‘after the issue 3356; phone: 425–917–6412; fax: 425–917–
structural integrity of the airplane. date of this service bulletin,’’ this AD 6590; email: eric.lin@faa.gov.
requires compliance within the specified
(f) Compliance compliance time after the effective date of (l) Material Incorporated by Reference
Comply with this AD within the this AD. (1) The Director of the Federal Register
compliance times specified, unless already (2) Where Boeing Alert Service Bulletin approved the incorporation by reference
done. 777–53A0081, dated September 8, 2016; or
(IBR) of the service information listed in this
(g) Inspections Boeing Alert Service Bulletin 777–53A0081,
Revision 1, dated May 1, 2017; specifies to paragraph under 5 U.S.C. 552(a) and 1 CFR
Except as specified in paragraph (i)(1) of contact Boeing for appropriate action: Before part 51.
this AD, at the applicable times specified in further flight, repair using a method (2) You must use this service information
tables 1 through 6 of paragraph 1.E., approved in accordance with the procedures as applicable to do the actions required by
‘‘Compliance,’’ of Boeing Alert Service specified in paragraph (j) of this AD. this AD, unless the AD specifies otherwise.
Bulletin 777–53A0081, dated September 8, (i) Boeing Alert Service Bulletin 777–
2016: Do detailed inspections for any crack (j) Alternative Methods of Compliance
53A0081, dated September 8, 2016.
of the left and right side underwing (AMOCs)
longerons; or do detailed inspections, and (ii) Boeing Alert Service Bulletin 777–
(1) The Manager, Seattle ACO Branch, 53A0081, Revision 1, dated May 1, 2017.
high frequency eddy current (HFEC) or FAA, has the authority to approve AMOCs
ultrasonic inspections, as applicable, for any (3) For Boeing service information
for this AD, if requested using the procedures
crack of the left and right side underwing found in 14 CFR 39.19. In accordance with identified in this AD, contact Boeing
longerons; and do all applicable related Commercial Airplanes, Attention:
14 CFR 39.19, send your request to your
investigative and corrective actions; in Contractual & Data Services (C&DS), 2600
principal inspector or local Flight Standards
accordance with the Accomplishment Westminster Blvd., MC 110–SK57, Seal
District Office, as appropriate. If sending
Instructions of Boeing Alert Service Bulletin Beach, CA 90740–5600; telephone: 562–797–
information directly to the manager of the
777–53A0081, dated September 8, 2016, or
Boeing Alert Service Bulletin 777–53A0081, certification office, send it to the attention of 1717; Internet: https://
Revision 1, dated May 1, 2017, except as the person identified in paragraph (k) of this www.myboeingfleet.com.
required by paragraph (i)(2) of this AD. Do all AD. Information may be emailed to: 9-ANM- (4) You may view this service information
applicable related investigative and Seattle-ACO-AMOC-Requests@faa.gov. at the FAA, Transport Standards Branch,
corrective actions before further flight. (2) Before using any approved AMOC, 1601 Lind Avenue SW., Renton, WA. For
Repeat the inspections thereafter at the times notify your appropriate principal inspector,
information on the availability of this
specified in tables 1 through 6 of paragraph or lacking a principal inspector, the manager
material at the FAA, call 425–227–1221.
1.E., ‘‘Compliance,’’ of Boeing Alert Service of the local flight standards district office/
certificate holding district office. (5) You may view this service information
Bulletin 777–53A0081, dated September 8, that is incorporated by reference at the
2016, as applicable. Replacing an underwing (3) An AMOC that provides an acceptable
level of safety may be used for any repair, National Archives and Records
longeron, including doing all applicable
related investigative and corrective actions, modification, or alteration required by this Administration (NARA). For information on
in accordance with the Accomplishment AD if it is approved by the Boeing the availability of this material at NARA, call
Instructions of Boeing Alert Service Bulletin Commercial Airplanes Organization 202–741–6030, or go to: http://
777–53A0081, dated September 8, 2016; or Designation Authorization (ODA) that has www.archives.gov/federal-register/cfr/ibr-
Boeing Alert Service Bulletin 777–53A0081, been authorized by the Manager, Seattle ACO locations.html.
Revision 1, dated May 1, 2017; except as Branch, to make those findings. To be
Issued in Renton, Washington, on August
sradovich on DSK3GMQ082PROD with RULES
required by paragraph (i)(2) of this AD, approved, the repair method, modification
terminates the repetitive inspections required deviation, or alteration deviation must meet 2, 2017.
by this paragraph for that longeron only. the certification basis of the airplane, and the Jeffrey E. Duven,
approval must specifically refer to this AD.
(h) Repetitive Post-Replacement Inspections Director, System Oversight Division, Aircraft
(4) Except as required by paragraph (i)(2)
and Corrective Actions Certification Service.
of this AD: For service information that
For airplanes on which any longeron contains steps that are labeled as Required [FR Doc. 2017–16779 Filed 8–18–17; 8:45 am]
replacement has been done as specified in for Compliance (RC), the provisions of BILLING CODE 4910–13–P
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Document Created: 2017-08-19 00:44:31
Document Modified: 2017-08-19 00:44:31
| 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 25, 2017. | |
| Contact | Eric Lin, Aerospace Engineer, Airframe Section, FAA, Seattle ACO Branch, 1601 Lind Avenue SW., Renton, WA 98057-3356; phone: 425-917-6412; fax: 425-917-6590; email: [email protected] | |
| FR Citation | 82 FR 39513 | |
| RIN Number | 2120-AA64 | |
| CFR Associated | Air Transportation; Aircraft; Aviation Safety; Incorporation by Reference and Safety |
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