82_FR_5373 82 FR 5362 - Airworthiness Directives; Airbus Airplanes

82 FR 5362 - Airworthiness Directives; Airbus Airplanes

DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION
Federal Aviation Administration

Federal Register Volume 82, Issue 11 (January 18, 2017)

Page Range5362-5365
FR Document2017-00408

We are adopting a new airworthiness directive (AD) for all Airbus Model A318 and A319 series airplanes, Model A320-211, -212, - 214, -231, -232, and -233 airplanes, and Model A321 series airplanes. This AD was prompted by a report of a rupture of a main landing gear (MLG) sliding tube axle. This AD requires identification of the part number and serial number of the MLG sliding tubes; inspection of affected chromium plates and sliding tube axles for damage; and replacement of the sliding tube if necessary. We are issuing this AD to address the unsafe condition on these products.

Federal Register, Volume 82 Issue 11 (Wednesday, January 18, 2017)
[Federal Register Volume 82, Number 11 (Wednesday, January 18, 2017)]
[Rules and Regulations]
[Pages 5362-5365]
From the Federal Register Online  [www.thefederalregister.org]
[FR Doc No: 2017-00408]


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DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION

Federal Aviation Administration

14 CFR Part 39

[Docket No. FAA-2015-0831; Directorate Identifier 2014-NM-061-AD; 
Amendment 39-18778; AD 2017-01-11]
RIN 2120-AA64


Airworthiness Directives; Airbus Airplanes

AGENCY: Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), Department of 
Transportation (DOT).

ACTION: Final rule.

-----------------------------------------------------------------------

SUMMARY: We are adopting a new airworthiness directive (AD) for all 
Airbus Model A318 and A319 series airplanes, Model A320-211, -212, -
214, -231, -232, and -233 airplanes, and Model A321 series airplanes. 
This AD was prompted by a report of a rupture of a main landing gear 
(MLG) sliding tube axle. This AD requires identification of the part 
number and serial number of the MLG sliding tubes; inspection of 
affected chromium plates and sliding tube axles for damage; and 
replacement of the sliding tube if necessary. We are issuing this AD to 
address the unsafe condition on these products.

DATES: This AD is effective February 22, 2017.
    The Director of the Federal Register approved the incorporation by 
reference of a certain publication listed in this AD as of February 22, 
2017.

ADDRESSES: For service information identified in this final rule, 
contact Airbus, Airworthiness Office--EIAS, 1 Rond Point Maurice 
Bellonte, 31707 Blagnac Cedex, France; telephone +33 5 61 93 36 96; fax 
+33 5 61 93 44 51; email [email protected]; Internet 
http://www.airbus.com. You may view this referenced service information 
at the FAA, Transport Airplane Directorate, 1601 Lind Avenue SW., 
Renton, WA. For information on the availability of this material at the 
FAA, call 425-227-1221. It is also available on the Internet at http://www.regulations.gov by searching for and locating Docket No. FAA-2015-
0831.

Examining the AD Docket

    You may examine the AD docket on the Internet at http://www.regulations.gov by searching for and locating Docket No. FAA-2015-
0831; or in person at the Docket Management Facility between 9 a.m. and 
5 p.m., Monday through Friday, except Federal holidays. The AD docket 
contains this AD, the regulatory evaluation, any comments received, and 
other information. The street address for the Docket Office (telephone 
800-647-5527) is Docket Management Facility, U.S. Department of 
Transportation, Docket Operations, M-30, West Building Ground Floor, 
Room W12-140, 1200 New Jersey Avenue SE., Washington, DC 20590.

FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Sanjay Ralhan, Aerospace Engineer, 
International Branch, ANM-116, Transport Airplane Directorate, FAA, 
1601 Lind Avenue SW., Renton, WA 98057-3356; telephone 425-227-1405; 
fax 425-227-1149.

SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION:

Discussion

    We issued a supplemental notice of proposed rulemaking (SNPRM) to 
amend 14 CFR part 39 by adding an AD that would apply to all Airbus 
Model A318 and A319 series airplanes, Model A320-211, -212, -214, -231, 
-232, and -233 airplanes, and Model A321 series airplanes. The SNPRM 
published in the Federal Register on June 28, 2016 (81 FR 41886) (``the 
SNPRM''). We preceded the SNPRM with a notice of proposed rulemaking 
(NPRM) that published in the Federal Register on April 24, 2015 (80 FR 
22939) (``the NPRM''). The NPRM proposed to require an inspection to 
identify the part number and serial number of the MLG sliding tubes 
installed on the airplane; an inspection of the axle on certain MLG 
sliding tubes for damage; and replacement of the sliding tube if 
necessary. The NPRM was prompted by a report of a rupture of a MLG 
sliding tube axle. The SNPRM proposed to remove certain service 
information that does not adequately address the identified unsafe 
condition and revise the compliance method. We are issuing this AD to 
detect and correct cracks in the axle and (partial) detachment of the 
axle and wheel from the sliding tube, which could result in failure of 
an MLG.
    The European Aviation Safety Agency (EASA), which is the Technical 
Agent for the Member States of the European Union, has issued EASA 
Airworthiness Directive 2014-0058, dated March 11, 2014 (referred to 
after this as the Mandatory Continuing Airworthiness Information, or 
``the MCAI''), to correct an unsafe condition for all Airbus Model A318 
and A319 series airplanes, Model A320-211, -212, -214, -231, -232, and 
-233 airplanes, and Model A321 series airplanes. The MCAI states:

    A main landing gear (MLG) sliding tube axle rupture occurred in 
service. Investigation of the affected part showed that this failure 
was due to an abnormal grinding operation during overhaul by a 
certain maintenance and repair organization located in Singapore. A 
population of MLG sliding tubes was subsequently identified whose 
axles may have been subject to this grinding operation, which may 
have resulted in areas of residual stress on the axles on the MLG 
sliding tubes. In addition, the MSN [manufacturer serial number] of 
the aeroplanes which are known to have had the affected parts 
installed have been identified.
    This condition, if not detected and corrected, could lead to 
cracks in the axle and (partial) detachment of axle and wheel from 
the sliding tube, possibly resulting in failure of a MLG with 
consequent damage to the aeroplane and injury to occupants.
    To address this potential unsafe condition, Messier-Bugatti-
Dowty, the MLG gear manufacturer, issued Service Bulletin (SB) 200-
32-313 and SB 201-32-62 [both dated February 25, 2013], providing 
inspection instructions and criteria for removal from service of the 
affected MLG sliding tubes.
    For the reasons described above, this [EASA] AD requires a one-
time Special Detailed Inspection (SDI) of the axle on the affected 
MLG sliding tubes and, depending on findings, replacement of the MLG 
sliding tube.

    The SDI includes a detailed visual inspection of the chromium plate 
for damage, and a Barkhausen noise inspection of the sliding tube axles 
for damage.
    You may examine the MCAI in the AD docket on the Internet at http://www.regulations.gov by searching for and locating Docket No. FAA-2015-
0831.

Comments

    We gave the public the opportunity to participate in developing 
this AD. We received no comments on the SNPRM or on the determination 
of the cost to the public.

Conclusion

    We reviewed the relevant data and determined that air safety and 
the public interest require adopting this AD as proposed except for 
minor editorial changes. We have determined that these minor changes:
     Are consistent with the intent that was proposed in the 
SNPRM for correcting the unsafe condition; and

[[Page 5363]]

     Do not add any additional burden upon the public than was 
already proposed in the SNPRM.

Related Service Information Under 1 CFR Part 51

    Airbus has issued Service Bulletin A320-32-1416, including Appendix 
01, dated March 10, 2014. This service information describes procedures 
for inspecting MLG axles and brake flanges by doing a detailed visual 
inspection of the chromium plates for damage, a Barkhausen noise 
inspection of the sliding tube axles for damage, and replacement of 
affected parts if necessary. This service information is reasonably 
available because the interested parties have access to it through 
their normal course of business or by the means identified in the 
ADDRESSES section.

Costs of Compliance

    We estimate that this AD affects 3 airplanes of U.S. registry.
    We also estimate that it would take about 18 work-hours per product 
to comply with the basic requirements of this AD. The average labor 
rate is $85 per work-hour. Based on these figures, we estimate the cost 
of this AD on U.S. operators to be $4,590, or $1,530 per product.
    In addition, we estimate that any necessary on-condition actions 
will take about 3 work-hours, for a cost of $255 per product. We have 
received no definitive data that would enable us to provide part cost 
estimates for the on-condition actions specified in this AD. We have no 
way of determining the number of aircraft that might need these 
actions.

Authority for This Rulemaking

    Title 49 of the United States Code specifies the FAA's authority to 
issue rules on aviation safety. Subtitle I, section 106, describes the 
authority of the FAA Administrator. ``Subtitle VII: Aviation 
Programs,'' describes in more detail the scope of the Agency's 
authority.
    We are issuing this rulemaking under the authority described in 
``Subtitle VII, Part A, Subpart III, Section 44701: General 
requirements.'' Under that section, Congress charges the FAA with 
promoting safe flight of civil aircraft in air commerce by prescribing 
regulations for practices, methods, and procedures the Administrator 
finds necessary for safety in air commerce. This regulation is within 
the scope of that authority because it addresses an unsafe condition 
that is likely to exist or develop on products identified in this 
rulemaking action.

Regulatory Findings

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

List of Subjects in 14 CFR Part 39

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

Adoption of the Amendment

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

PART 39--AIRWORTHINESS DIRECTIVES

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

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


Sec.  39.13   [Amended]

0
2. The FAA amends Sec.  39.13 by adding the following new airworthiness 
directive (AD):

2017-01-11 Airbus: Amendment 39-18778; Docket No. FAA-2015-0831; 
Directorate Identifier 2014-NM-061-AD.

(a) Effective Date

    This AD is effective February 22, 2017.

(b) Affected ADs

    None.

(c) Applicability

    This AD applies to the Airbus airplanes identified in paragraphs 
(c)(1) through (c)(4) of this AD, certificated in any category, all 
manufacturer serial numbers.
    (1) Airbus Model A318-111, -112, -121, and -122 airplanes.
    (2) Airbus Model A319-111, -112, -113, -114, -115, -131, -132, 
and -133 airplanes.
    (3) Airbus Model A320-211, -212, -214, -231, -232, and -233 
airplanes.
    (4) Airbus Model A321-111, -112, -131, -211, -212, -213, -231, 
and -232 airplanes.

(d) Subject

    Air Transport Association (ATA) of America Code 32, Landing 
gear.

(e) Reason

    This AD was prompted by a report of a rupture of a main landing 
gear (MLG) sliding tube axle. We are issuing this AD to detect and 
correct cracks in the axle and (partial) detachment of the axle and 
wheel from the sliding tube, which could result in failure of an 
MLG.

(f) Compliance

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

(g) MLG Sliding Tube Part Number and Serial Number Identification

    Within 3 months after the effective date of this AD: Do an 
inspection to identify the part number and serial number of the MLG 
sliding tubes installed on the airplane. A review of airplane 
maintenance records is acceptable in lieu of this inspection if the 
part number and serial number of the MLG sliding tubes can be 
conclusively determined from that review.

(h) Identification of Airplanes Not Affected by the Requirements of 
Paragraph (i) of this AD

    An airplane with a manufacturer serial number (MSN) not listed 
in figure 1 to paragraph (h) of this AD is not affected by the 
requirements of paragraph (i) of this AD, provided it can be 
determined that no MLG sliding tube having a part number and serial 
number listed in table 1 to paragraphs (h), (i), (k)(1), (k)(2), 
(l)(1), and (l)(2) of this AD has been installed on that airplane 
since first flight of the airplane.

                                      Figure 1 to Paragraph (h) of This AD
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
 
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                        Affected Airplanes Listed by MSN
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
           0179               0214               0296               0412               0558               0604
           0607               0668               0704               0720               0726               0731
           0754               0771               0799               0828               0841               0855
           0909               0914               0925               0939               0986               1028
           1030               1041               1070               1083               1093               1098

[[Page 5364]]

 
           1108               1148               1294               1356               2713               2831
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------


  Table 1 to Paragraphs (h), (i), (k)(1), (k)(2), (l)(1), and (l)(2) of
                   this AD--Affected MLG Sliding Tubes
------------------------------------------------------------------------
                        Part No.                            Serial No.
------------------------------------------------------------------------
201160302...............................................             78B
201160302...............................................         1016B11
201160302...............................................           1144B
201371302...............................................           B4493
201371302...............................................           B4513
201371302...............................................          SS4359
201371302...............................................           B4530
201371302...............................................           B4517
201371302...............................................           B4568
201371302...............................................           B4498
201371302...............................................           4490B
201371302...............................................       B202-4598
201371302...............................................       B165-4623
201371302...............................................       B244-4766
201371302...............................................       B267-4794
201371302...............................................       B272-4813
201160302...............................................           1108B
201371304...............................................       B041-4871
201371304...............................................       B045-4869
201371304...............................................       B001-4781
201371304...............................................       B051-4892
201371304...............................................       B110-1952
201371304...............................................       B054-4891
201371304...............................................       B063-4921
201371304...............................................       B071-4911
201371304...............................................       B071-4917
201371304...............................................       B080-1933
201371304...............................................       B117-5010
201371304...............................................       B120-4989
201371304...............................................       B132-2023
201371304...............................................       B114-1956
201371304...............................................       B208-2009
201371304...............................................       B133-1947
201371304...............................................       B154-5037
201371304...............................................        B89 4952
201371304...............................................       B129-1964
201371304...............................................       B227-2010
201371304...............................................       B170-5031
201371304...............................................       B182-5047
201371304...............................................       B239-2053
201371304...............................................      B1401-2856
201371304...............................................      B1813-3142
201371304...............................................       B116-5004
201522353...............................................        B011-149
201522350...............................................         B014-25
201522350...............................................         B019-56
201522350...............................................         B019-57
201522350...............................................         B021-69
201522350...............................................         B022-60
201522353...............................................         B03-111
201522353...............................................         B03-110
201522353...............................................        B112-317
201522353...............................................        B174-351
201522353...............................................        B179-392
201383350...............................................           4377B
201383350...............................................           4393B
201383350...............................................           B1831
201383350...............................................           B1832
201383350...............................................         SS4355B
201383350...............................................         SS4400B
------------------------------------------------------------------------

(i) Inspections

    For each MLG sliding tube identified as required by paragraph 
(g) of this AD, having a part number and serial number listed in 
table 1 to paragraphs (h), (i), (k)(1), (k)(2), (l)(1), and (l)(2) 
of this AD: Within 3 months after the effective date of this AD, 
inspect affected MLG axles and brake flanges by doing a detailed 
visual inspection of the chromium plates for damage, and a 
Barkhausen noise inspection of the sliding tube axles for damage, in 
accordance with the Accomplishment Instructions of Airbus Service 
Bulletin A320-32-1416, including Appendix 01, dated March 10, 2014. 
For Model A318 series airplanes, use the procedures specified for 
Model A319 series airplanes in Airbus Service Bulletin A320-32-1416, 
including Appendix 01, dated March 10, 2014.

(j) Corrective Action

    If, during any inspection required by paragraph (i) of this AD, 
any damage is detected: Before further flight, replace the MLG 
sliding tube with a serviceable tube, in accordance with the 
Accomplishment Instructions of Airbus Service Bulletin A320-32-1416, 
including Appendix 01, dated March 10, 2014. For Model A318 series 
airplanes, use the procedures specified for Model A319 series 
airplanes in Airbus Service Bulletin A320-32-1416, including 
Appendix 01, dated March 10, 2014.

(k) Definition of Serviceable Sliding Tube

    For the purpose of this AD, a serviceable sliding tube is 
defined as a sliding tube that meets the criterion in either 
paragraph (k)(1) or (k)(2) of this AD.
    (1) A sliding tube having a part number and serial number not 
listed in table 1 to paragraphs (h), (i), (k)(1), (k)(2), (l)(1), 
and (l)(2) of this AD.
    (2) A sliding tube having a part number and serial number listed 
in table 1 to paragraphs (h), (i), (k)(1), (k)(2), (l)(1), and 
(l)(2) of this AD that has passed the inspections required by 
paragraph (i) of this AD.

(l) Parts Installation Prohibitions

    (1) For airplanes that have an MLG sliding tube installed that 
has a part number and serial number listed in table 1 to paragraphs 
(h), (i), (k)(1), (k)(2), (l)(1), and (l)(2) of this AD: After an 
airplane is returned to service following accomplishment of the 
actions required by paragraphs (g), (h), and (i) of this AD, no 
person may install on any airplane an MLG sliding tube having a part 
number and serial number listed in table 1 to paragraphs (h), (i), 
(k)(1), (k)(2), (l)(1), and (l)(2) of this AD unless that sliding 
tube has passed the inspection required by paragraph (i) of this AD.
    (2) For airplanes that, as of the effective date of this AD, do 
not have an MLG sliding tube installed that has a part number and 
serial number listed in table 1 to paragraphs (h), (i), (k)(1), 
(k)(2), (l)(1), and (l)(2) of this AD: No person may install on any 
airplane an MLG sliding tube having a part number and serial number 
listed in table 1 to paragraphs (h), (i), (k)(1), (k)(2), (l)(1), 
and (l)(2) of this AD unless that sliding tube has passed the 
inspection required by paragraph (i) of this AD.

(m) Other FAA AD Provisions

    The following provisions also apply to this AD:
    (1) Alternative Methods of Compliance (AMOCs): The Manager, 
International Branch, ANM-116, Transport Airplane Directorate, FAA, 
has the authority to approve AMOCs for this AD, if requested using 
the procedures found in 14 CFR 39.19. In accordance with 14 CFR 
39.19, send your request to your principal inspector or local Flight 
Standards District Office, as appropriate. If sending information 
directly to the International Branch, send it to ATTN: Sanjay 
Ralhan, Aerospace Engineer, International Branch, ANM-116, Transport 
Airplane Directorate, FAA, 1601 Lind Avenue SW., Renton, WA 98057-
3356; telephone 425-227-1405; fax 425-227-1149. 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. The 
AMOC approval letter must specifically reference this AD.
    (2) Required for Compliance (RC): If any service information 
contains procedures or tests that are identified as RC, those 
procedures and tests must be done to comply with this AD; any 
procedures or tests that are not identified as RC are recommended. 
Those procedures and tests that are not identified 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 procedures and tests identified as 
RC can be done and the airplane can be put back in an airworthy 
condition. Any substitutions or changes to procedures or tests 
identified as RC require approval of an AMOC.
    (3) Contacting the Manufacturer: For any requirement in this AD 
to obtain corrective actions from a manufacturer, the action must be 
accomplished using a method approved by the Manager, International 
Branch, ANM-116, Transport Airplane Directorate, FAA; or the 
European Aviation Safety Agency (EASA); or Airbus's EASA Design 
Organization Approval (DOA). If approved by the DOA, the approval 
must include the DOA-authorized signature.

(n) Special Flight Permits

    Special flight permits may be issued in accordance with sections 
21.197 and 21.199 of the Federal Aviation Regulations (14 CFR 21.197 
and 21.199) to operate the airplane to a location where the airplane 
can be modified (if the operator elects to do so), provided the MLG 
remains extended throughout the flight.

(o) Related Information

    Refer to Mandatory Continuing Airworthiness Information (MCAI) 
EASA

[[Page 5365]]

Airworthiness Directive 2014-0058, dated March 11, 2014, for related 
information. This MCAI may be found in the AD docket on the Internet 
at http://www.regulations.gov by searching for and locating Docket 
No. FAA-2015-0831.

(p) Material Incorporated by Reference

    (1) The Director of the Federal Register approved the 
incorporation by reference (IBR) of the service information listed 
in this paragraph under 5 U.S.C. 552(a) and 1 CFR part 51.
    (2) You must use this service information as applicable to do 
the actions required by this AD, unless this AD specifies otherwise.
    (i) Airbus Service Bulletin A320-32-1416, including Appendix 01, 
dated March 10, 2014.
    (ii) Reserved.
    (3) For service information identified in this AD, contact 
Airbus, Airworthiness Office--EIAS, 1 Rond Point Maurice Bellonte, 
31707 Blagnac Cedex, France; telephone +33 5 61 93 36 96; fax +33 5 
61 93 44 51; email [email protected]; Internet http://www.airbus.com.
    (4) You may view this service information at the FAA, Transport 
Airplane Directorate, 1601 Lind Avenue SW., Renton, WA. For 
information on the availability of this material at the FAA, call 
425-227-1221.
    (5) You may view this service information that is incorporated 
by reference at the National Archives and Records Administration 
(NARA). For information on the availability of this material at 
NARA, call 202-741-6030, or go to: http://www.archives.gov/federal-register/cfr/ibr-locations.html.

    Issued in Renton, Washington, on January 4, 2017.
Michael Kaszycki,
Acting Manager, Transport Airplane Directorate, Aircraft Certification 
Service.
[FR Doc. 2017-00408 Filed 1-17-17; 8:45 am]
 BILLING CODE 4910-13-P



                                                5362             Federal Register / Vol. 82, No. 11 / Wednesday, January 18, 2017 / Rules and Regulations

                                                www.archives.gov/federal-register/cfr/ibr-              and locating Docket No. FAA–2015–                      Directive 2014–0058, dated March 11,
                                                locations.html.                                         0831.                                                  2014 (referred to after this as the
                                                   Issued in Kansas City, Missouri, on January                                                                 Mandatory Continuing Airworthiness
                                                                                                        Examining the AD Docket
                                                6, 2017.                                                                                                       Information, or ‘‘the MCAI’’), to correct
                                                Melvin Johnson,                                           You may examine the AD docket on                     an unsafe condition for all Airbus
                                                Manager, Small Airplane Directorate, Aircraft           the Internet at http://                                Model A318 and A319 series airplanes,
                                                Certification Service.                                  www.regulations.gov by searching for                   Model A320–211, –212, –214, –231,
                                                [FR Doc. 2017–00502 Filed 1–17–17; 8:45 am]             and locating Docket No. FAA–2015–                      –232, and –233 airplanes, and Model
                                                BILLING CODE 4910–13–P
                                                                                                        0831; or in person at the Docket                       A321 series airplanes. The MCAI states:
                                                                                                        Management Facility between 9 a.m.                        A main landing gear (MLG) sliding tube
                                                                                                        and 5 p.m., Monday through Friday,                     axle rupture occurred in service.
                                                DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION                            except Federal holidays. The AD docket                 Investigation of the affected part showed that
                                                                                                        contains this AD, the regulatory                       this failure was due to an abnormal grinding
                                                Federal Aviation Administration                         evaluation, any comments received, and                 operation during overhaul by a certain
                                                                                                        other information. The street address for              maintenance and repair organization located
                                                14 CFR Part 39                                          the Docket Office (telephone 800–647–                  in Singapore. A population of MLG sliding
                                                                                                        5527) is Docket Management Facility,                   tubes was subsequently identified whose
                                                [Docket No. FAA–2015–0831; Directorate                                                                         axles may have been subject to this grinding
                                                Identifier 2014–NM–061–AD; Amendment                    U.S. Department of Transportation,
                                                                                                                                                               operation, which may have resulted in areas
                                                39–18778; AD 2017–01–11]                                Docket Operations, M–30, West                          of residual stress on the axles on the MLG
                                                                                                        Building Ground Floor, Room W12–140,                   sliding tubes. In addition, the MSN
                                                RIN 2120–AA64                                           1200 New Jersey Avenue SE.,                            [manufacturer serial number] of the
                                                                                                        Washington, DC 20590.                                  aeroplanes which are known to have had the
                                                Airworthiness Directives; Airbus
                                                                                                        FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT:                       affected parts installed have been identified.
                                                Airplanes                                                                                                         This condition, if not detected and
                                                                                                        Sanjay Ralhan, Aerospace Engineer,
                                                AGENCY:  Federal Aviation                               International Branch, ANM–116,                         corrected, could lead to cracks in the axle
                                                Administration (FAA), Department of                                                                            and (partial) detachment of axle and wheel
                                                                                                        Transport Airplane Directorate, FAA,                   from the sliding tube, possibly resulting in
                                                Transportation (DOT).                                   1601 Lind Avenue SW., Renton, WA                       failure of a MLG with consequent damage to
                                                ACTION: Final rule.                                     98057–3356; telephone 425–227–1405;                    the aeroplane and injury to occupants.
                                                                                                        fax 425–227–1149.                                         To address this potential unsafe condition,
                                                SUMMARY:   We are adopting a new                                                                               Messier-Bugatti-Dowty, the MLG gear
                                                                                                        SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION:
                                                airworthiness directive (AD) for all                                                                           manufacturer, issued Service Bulletin (SB)
                                                Airbus Model A318 and A319 series                       Discussion                                             200–32–313 and SB 201–32–62 [both dated
                                                airplanes, Model A320–211, –212, –214,                     We issued a supplemental notice of                  February 25, 2013], providing inspection
                                                –231, –232, and –233 airplanes, and                     proposed rulemaking (SNPRM) to
                                                                                                                                                               instructions and criteria for removal from
                                                Model A321 series airplanes. This AD                                                                           service of the affected MLG sliding tubes.
                                                                                                        amend 14 CFR part 39 by adding an AD                      For the reasons described above, this
                                                was prompted by a report of a rupture                   that would apply to all Airbus Model
                                                of a main landing gear (MLG) sliding                                                                           [EASA] AD requires a one-time Special
                                                                                                        A318 and A319 series airplanes, Model                  Detailed Inspection (SDI) of the axle on the
                                                tube axle. This AD requires                             A320–211, –212, –214, –231, –232, and                  affected MLG sliding tubes and, depending
                                                identification of the part number and                   –233 airplanes, and Model A321 series                  on findings, replacement of the MLG sliding
                                                serial number of the MLG sliding tubes;                 airplanes. The SNPRM published in the                  tube.
                                                inspection of affected chromium plates                  Federal Register on June 28, 2016 (81
                                                and sliding tube axles for damage; and                                                                           The SDI includes a detailed visual
                                                                                                        FR 41886) (‘‘the SNPRM’’). We preceded                 inspection of the chromium plate for
                                                replacement of the sliding tube if                      the SNPRM with a notice of proposed
                                                necessary. We are issuing this AD to                                                                           damage, and a Barkhausen noise
                                                                                                        rulemaking (NPRM) that published in                    inspection of the sliding tube axles for
                                                address the unsafe condition on these                   the Federal Register on April 24, 2015
                                                products.                                                                                                      damage.
                                                                                                        (80 FR 22939) (‘‘the NPRM’’). The                        You may examine the MCAI in the
                                                DATES: This AD is effective February 22,                NPRM proposed to require an                            AD docket on the Internet at http://
                                                2017.                                                   inspection to identify the part number                 www.regulations.gov by searching for
                                                  The Director of the Federal Register                  and serial number of the MLG sliding                   and locating Docket No. FAA–2015–
                                                approved the incorporation by reference                 tubes installed on the airplane; an                    0831.
                                                of a certain publication listed in this AD              inspection of the axle on certain MLG
                                                as of February 22, 2017.                                sliding tubes for damage; and                          Comments
                                                ADDRESSES: For service information                      replacement of the sliding tube if                       We gave the public the opportunity to
                                                identified in this final rule, contact                  necessary. The NPRM was prompted by                    participate in developing this AD. We
                                                Airbus, Airworthiness Office—EIAS, 1                    a report of a rupture of a MLG sliding                 received no comments on the SNPRM or
                                                Rond Point Maurice Bellonte, 31707                      tube axle. The SNPRM proposed to                       on the determination of the cost to the
                                                Blagnac Cedex, France; telephone +33 5                  remove certain service information that                public.
                                                61 93 36 96; fax +33 5 61 93 44 51; email               does not adequately address the
                                                account.airworth-eas@airbus.com;                        identified unsafe condition and revise                 Conclusion
                                                Internet http://www.airbus.com. You                     the compliance method. We are issuing                    We reviewed the relevant data and
                                                may view this referenced service                        this AD to detect and correct cracks in                determined that air safety and the
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                                                information at the FAA, Transport                       the axle and (partial) detachment of the               public interest require adopting this AD
                                                Airplane Directorate, 1601 Lind Avenue                  axle and wheel from the sliding tube,                  as proposed except for minor editorial
                                                SW., Renton, WA. For information on                     which could result in failure of an MLG.               changes. We have determined that these
                                                the availability of this material at the                   The European Aviation Safety Agency                 minor changes:
                                                FAA, call 425–227–1221. It is also                      (EASA), which is the Technical Agent                     • Are consistent with the intent that
                                                available on the Internet at http://                    for the Member States of the European                  was proposed in the SNPRM for
                                                www.regulations.gov by searching for                    Union, has issued EASA Airworthiness                   correcting the unsafe condition; and


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                                                                 Federal Register / Vol. 82, No. 11 / Wednesday, January 18, 2017 / Rules and Regulations                                                 5363

                                                  • Do not add any additional burden                    air commerce by prescribing regulations                 (a) Effective Date
                                                upon the public than was already                        for practices, methods, and procedures                    This AD is effective February 22, 2017.
                                                proposed in the SNPRM.                                  the Administrator finds necessary for
                                                                                                        safety in air commerce. This regulation                 (b) Affected ADs
                                                Related Service Information Under 1                                                                               None.
                                                                                                        is within the scope of that authority
                                                CFR Part 51
                                                                                                        because it addresses an unsafe condition                (c) Applicability
                                                   Airbus has issued Service Bulletin                   that is likely to exist or develop on
                                                A320–32–1416, including Appendix 01,                                                                              This AD applies to the Airbus airplanes
                                                                                                        products identified in this rulemaking
                                                dated March 10, 2014. This service                                                                              identified in paragraphs (c)(1) through (c)(4)
                                                                                                        action.                                                 of this AD, certificated in any category, all
                                                information describes procedures for
                                                inspecting MLG axles and brake flanges                  Regulatory Findings                                     manufacturer serial numbers.
                                                by doing a detailed visual inspection of                                                                          (1) Airbus Model A318–111, –112, –121,
                                                                                                          We determined that this AD will not
                                                                                                                                                                and –122 airplanes.
                                                the chromium plates for damage, a                       have federalism implications under                        (2) Airbus Model A319–111, –112, –113,
                                                Barkhausen noise inspection of the                      Executive Order 13132. This AD will                     –114, –115, –131, –132, and –133 airplanes.
                                                sliding tube axles for damage, and                      not have a substantial direct effect on                   (3) Airbus Model A320–211, –212, –214,
                                                replacement of affected parts if                        the States, on the relationship between                 –231, –232, and –233 airplanes.
                                                necessary. This service information is                  the national government and the States,                   (4) Airbus Model A321–111, –112, –131,
                                                reasonably available because the                        or on the distribution of power and                     –211, –212, –213, –231, and –232 airplanes.
                                                interested parties have access to it                    responsibilities among the various
                                                through their normal course of business                 levels of government.                                   (d) Subject
                                                or by the means identified in the                         For the reasons discussed above, I                     Air Transport Association (ATA) of
                                                ADDRESSES section.                                      certify that this AD:                                   America Code 32, Landing gear.
                                                                                                          1. Is not a ‘‘significant regulatory
                                                Costs of Compliance                                                                                             (e) Reason
                                                                                                        action’’ under Executive Order 12866;
                                                  We estimate that this AD affects 3                      2. Is not a ‘‘significant rule’’ under the               This AD was prompted by a report of a
                                                airplanes of U.S. registry.                             DOT Regulatory Policies and Procedures                  rupture of a main landing gear (MLG) sliding
                                                  We also estimate that it would take                   (44 FR 11034, February 26, 1979);                       tube axle. We are issuing this AD to detect
                                                about 18 work-hours per product to                        3. Will not affect intrastate aviation in             and correct cracks in the axle and (partial)
                                                comply with the basic requirements of                   Alaska; and                                             detachment of the axle and wheel from the
                                                this AD. The average labor rate is $85                    4. Will not have a significant                        sliding tube, which could result in failure of
                                                per work-hour. Based on these figures,                  economic impact, positive or negative,                  an MLG.
                                                we estimate the cost of this AD on U.S.                 on a substantial number of small entities               (f) Compliance
                                                operators to be $4,590, or $1,530 per                   under the criteria of the Regulatory                      Comply with this AD within the
                                                product.                                                Flexibility Act.                                        compliance times specified, unless already
                                                  In addition, we estimate that any
                                                                                                        List of Subjects in 14 CFR Part 39                      done.
                                                necessary on-condition actions will take
                                                about 3 work-hours, for a cost of $255                    Air transportation, Aircraft, Aviation                (g) MLG Sliding Tube Part Number and
                                                per product. We have received no                        safety, Incorporation by reference,                     Serial Number Identification
                                                definitive data that would enable us to                 Safety.                                                    Within 3 months after the effective date of
                                                provide part cost estimates for the on-                                                                         this AD: Do an inspection to identify the part
                                                condition actions specified in this AD.                 Adoption of the Amendment                               number and serial number of the MLG
                                                We have no way of determining the                         Accordingly, under the authority                      sliding tubes installed on the airplane. A
                                                number of aircraft that might need these                delegated to me by the Administrator,                   review of airplane maintenance records is
                                                actions.                                                the FAA amends 14 CFR part 39 as                        acceptable in lieu of this inspection if the
                                                                                                        follows:                                                part number and serial number of the MLG
                                                Authority for This Rulemaking                                                                                   sliding tubes can be conclusively determined
                                                  Title 49 of the United States Code                    PART 39—AIRWORTHINESS                                   from that review.
                                                specifies the FAA’s authority to issue                  DIRECTIVES
                                                                                                                                                                (h) Identification of Airplanes Not Affected
                                                rules on aviation safety. Subtitle I,                                                                           by the Requirements of Paragraph (i) of this
                                                section 106, describes the authority of                 ■ 1. The authority citation for part 39
                                                                                                                                                                AD
                                                the FAA Administrator. ‘‘Subtitle VII:                  continues to read as follows:
                                                                                                                                                                   An airplane with a manufacturer serial
                                                Aviation Programs,’’ describes in more                      Authority: 49 U.S.C. 106(g), 40113, 44701.
                                                                                                                                                                number (MSN) not listed in figure 1 to
                                                detail the scope of the Agency’s                                                                                paragraph (h) of this AD is not affected by the
                                                                                                        § 39.13    [Amended]
                                                authority.                                                                                                      requirements of paragraph (i) of this AD,
                                                  We are issuing this rulemaking under                  ■ 2. The FAA amends § 39.13 by adding                   provided it can be determined that no MLG
                                                the authority described in ‘‘Subtitle VII,              the following new airworthiness                         sliding tube having a part number and serial
                                                Part A, Subpart III, Section 44701:                     directive (AD):                                         number listed in table 1 to paragraphs (h), (i),
                                                General requirements.’’ Under that                      2017–01–11 Airbus: Amendment 39–18778;                  (k)(1), (k)(2), (l)(1), and (l)(2) of this AD has
                                                section, Congress charges the FAA with                      Docket No. FAA–2015–0831; Directorate               been installed on that airplane since first
                                                promoting safe flight of civil aircraft in                  Identifier 2014–NM–061–AD.                          flight of the airplane.

                                                                                                      FIGURE 1 TO PARAGRAPH (H) OF THIS AD
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                                                                                                                Affected Airplanes Listed by MSN

                                                         0179                         0214                        0296                           0412                     0558                    0604
                                                         0607                         0668                        0704                           0720                     0726                    0731
                                                         0754                         0771                        0799                           0828                     0841                    0855
                                                         0909                         0914                        0925                           0939                     0986                    1028
                                                         1030                         1041                        1070                           1083                     1093                    1098



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                                                5364             Federal Register / Vol. 82, No. 11 / Wednesday, January 18, 2017 / Rules and Regulations

                                                                                                   FIGURE 1 TO PARAGRAPH (H) OF THIS AD—Continued
                                                         1108                               1148                        1294                           1356                    2713                    2831

                                                   TABLE 1 TO PARAGRAPHS (h), (i),                            a part number and serial number listed in               (l)(2) of this AD unless that sliding tube has
                                                                                                              table 1 to paragraphs (h), (i), (k)(1), (k)(2),         passed the inspection required by paragraph
                                                   (k)(1), (k)(2), (l)(1), AND (l)(2) OF                      (l)(1), and (l)(2) of this AD: Within 3 months          (i) of this AD.
                                                   THIS AD—AFFECTED MLG SLIDING                               after the effective date of this AD, inspect
                                                   TUBES                                                      affected MLG axles and brake flanges by                 (m) Other FAA AD Provisions
                                                                                                              doing a detailed visual inspection of the                  The following provisions also apply to this
                                                           Part No.                          Serial No.       chromium plates for damage, and a                       AD:
                                                                                                              Barkhausen noise inspection of the sliding                 (1) Alternative Methods of Compliance
                                                201160302    ............................           78B       tube axles for damage, in accordance with the           (AMOCs): The Manager, International
                                                201160302    ............................       1016B11       Accomplishment Instructions of Airbus                   Branch, ANM–116, Transport Airplane
                                                201160302    ............................         1144B       Service Bulletin A320–32–1416, including                Directorate, FAA, has the authority to
                                                201371302    ............................         B4493       Appendix 01, dated March 10, 2014. For                  approve AMOCs for this AD, if requested
                                                201371302    ............................         B4513       Model A318 series airplanes, use the                    using the procedures found in 14 CFR 39.19.
                                                201371302    ............................        SS4359       procedures specified for Model A319 series              In accordance with 14 CFR 39.19, send your
                                                201371302    ............................         B4530       airplanes in Airbus Service Bulletin A320–              request to your principal inspector or local
                                                201371302    ............................         B4517       32–1416, including Appendix 01, dated                   Flight Standards District Office, as
                                                201371302    ............................         B4568       March 10, 2014.                                         appropriate. If sending information directly
                                                201371302    ............................         B4498                                                               to the International Branch, send it to ATTN:
                                                201371302    ............................         4490B       (j) Corrective Action                                   Sanjay Ralhan, Aerospace Engineer,
                                                201371302    ............................     B202–4598          If, during any inspection required by                International Branch, ANM–116, Transport
                                                201371302    ............................     B165–4623       paragraph (i) of this AD, any damage is                 Airplane Directorate, FAA, 1601 Lind
                                                201371302    ............................     B244–4766       detected: Before further flight, replace the            Avenue SW., Renton, WA 98057–3356;
                                                201371302    ............................     B267–4794       MLG sliding tube with a serviceable tube, in            telephone 425–227–1405; fax 425–227–1149.
                                                201371302    ............................     B272–4813       accordance with the Accomplishment                      Information may be emailed to: 9–ANM–116–
                                                201160302    ............................         1108B       Instructions of Airbus Service Bulletin A320–           AMOC–REQUESTS@faa.gov. Before using
                                                201371304    ............................     B041–4871       32–1416, including Appendix 01, dated                   any approved AMOC, notify your appropriate
                                                201371304    ............................     B045–4869       March 10, 2014. For Model A318 series                   principal inspector, or lacking a principal
                                                201371304    ............................     B001–4781       airplanes, use the procedures specified for             inspector, the manager of the local flight
                                                201371304    ............................     B051–4892       Model A319 series airplanes in Airbus                   standards district office/certificate holding
                                                201371304    ............................     B110–1952       Service Bulletin A320–32–1416, including                district office. The AMOC approval letter
                                                201371304    ............................     B054–4891       Appendix 01, dated March 10, 2014.                      must specifically reference this AD.
                                                201371304    ............................     B063–4921                                                                  (2) Required for Compliance (RC): If any
                                                201371304    ............................     B071–4911       (k) Definition of Serviceable Sliding Tube              service information contains procedures or
                                                201371304    ............................     B071–4917          For the purpose of this AD, a serviceable            tests that are identified as RC, those
                                                201371304    ............................     B080–1933       sliding tube is defined as a sliding tube that          procedures and tests must be done to comply
                                                201371304    ............................     B117–5010       meets the criterion in either paragraph (k)(1)          with this AD; any procedures or tests that are
                                                201371304    ............................     B120–4989       or (k)(2) of this AD.                                   not identified as RC are recommended. Those
                                                201371304    ............................     B132–2023          (1) A sliding tube having a part number              procedures and tests that are not identified
                                                201371304    ............................     B114–1956       and serial number not listed in table 1 to              as RC may be deviated from using accepted
                                                201371304    ............................     B208–2009       paragraphs (h), (i), (k)(1), (k)(2), (l)(1), and        methods in accordance with the operator’s
                                                201371304    ............................     B133–1947       (l)(2) of this AD.                                      maintenance or inspection program without
                                                201371304    ............................     B154–5037          (2) A sliding tube having a part number              obtaining approval of an AMOC, provided
                                                201371304    ............................      B89 4952       and serial number listed in table 1 to                  the procedures and tests identified as RC can
                                                201371304    ............................     B129–1964       paragraphs (h), (i), (k)(1), (k)(2), (l)(1), and        be done and the airplane can be put back in
                                                201371304    ............................     B227–2010       (l)(2) of this AD that has passed the                   an airworthy condition. Any substitutions or
                                                201371304    ............................     B170–5031       inspections required by paragraph (i) of this           changes to procedures or tests identified as
                                                201371304    ............................     B182–5047       AD.                                                     RC require approval of an AMOC.
                                                201371304    ............................     B239–2053
                                                                                                                                                                         (3) Contacting the Manufacturer: For any
                                                201371304    ............................    B1401–2856       (l) Parts Installation Prohibitions
                                                                                                                                                                      requirement in this AD to obtain corrective
                                                201371304    ............................    B1813–3142          (1) For airplanes that have an MLG sliding           actions from a manufacturer, the action must
                                                201371304    ............................     B116–5004       tube installed that has a part number and               be accomplished using a method approved
                                                201522353    ............................      B011–149       serial number listed in table 1 to paragraphs
                                                201522350    ............................       B014–25                                                               by the Manager, International Branch, ANM–
                                                                                                              (h), (i), (k)(1), (k)(2), (l)(1), and (l)(2) of this    116, Transport Airplane Directorate, FAA; or
                                                201522350    ............................       B019–56       AD: After an airplane is returned to service
                                                201522350    ............................       B019–57                                                               the European Aviation Safety Agency
                                                                                                              following accomplishment of the actions                 (EASA); or Airbus’s EASA Design
                                                201522350    ............................       B021–69       required by paragraphs (g), (h), and (i) of this
                                                201522350    ............................       B022–60                                                               Organization Approval (DOA). If approved by
                                                                                                              AD, no person may install on any airplane an            the DOA, the approval must include the
                                                201522353    ............................       B03–111       MLG sliding tube having a part number and
                                                201522353    ............................       B03–110                                                               DOA-authorized signature.
                                                                                                              serial number listed in table 1 to paragraphs
                                                201522353    ............................      B112–317       (h), (i), (k)(1), (k)(2), (l)(1), and (l)(2) of this    (n) Special Flight Permits
                                                201522353    ............................      B174–351       AD unless that sliding tube has passed the                 Special flight permits may be issued in
                                                201522353    ............................      B179–392       inspection required by paragraph (i) of this
                                                201383350    ............................         4377B                                                               accordance with sections 21.197 and 21.199
                                                                                                              AD.                                                     of the Federal Aviation Regulations (14 CFR
                                                201383350    ............................         4393B
                                                                                                                 (2) For airplanes that, as of the effective          21.197 and 21.199) to operate the airplane to
                                                201383350    ............................         B1831
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                                                                                                              date of this AD, do not have an MLG sliding             a location where the airplane can be
                                                201383350    ............................         B1832
                                                                                                              tube installed that has a part number and               modified (if the operator elects to do so),
                                                201383350    ............................       SS4355B
                                                                                                              serial number listed in table 1 to paragraphs           provided the MLG remains extended
                                                201383350    ............................       SS4400B
                                                                                                              (h), (i), (k)(1), (k)(2), (l)(1), and (l)(2) of this    throughout the flight.
                                                                                                              AD: No person may install on any airplane
                                                (i) Inspections                                               an MLG sliding tube having a part number                (o) Related Information
                                                   For each MLG sliding tube identified as                    and serial number listed in table 1 to                    Refer to Mandatory Continuing
                                                required by paragraph (g) of this AD, having                  paragraphs (h), (i), (k)(1), (k)(2), (l)(1), and        Airworthiness Information (MCAI) EASA



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                                                                 Federal Register / Vol. 82, No. 11 / Wednesday, January 18, 2017 / Rules and Regulations                                               5365

                                                Airworthiness Directive 2014–0058, dated                for certain areas of the fuselage, the                 apply to certain Fokker Services B.V.
                                                March 11, 2014, for related information. This           current threshold of an Airworthiness                  Model F28 Mark 0100 airplanes. The
                                                MCAI may be found in the AD docket on the               Limitations Section inspection is                      NPRM published in the Federal
                                                Internet at http://www.regulations.gov by               insufficient to detect early crack                     Register on September 8, 2016 (81 FR
                                                searching for and locating Docket No. FAA–
                                                2015–0831.
                                                                                                        development. This AD requires one time                 62029) (‘‘the NPRM’’). The NPRM was
                                                                                                        high and low frequency eddy current                    prompted by an analysis which
                                                (p) Material Incorporated by Reference                  inspections of the affected fuselage skin              determined that, for certain areas of the
                                                   (1) The Director of the Federal Register             for cracks, and repair if necessary. We                fuselage, the current threshold of an
                                                approved the incorporation by reference                 are issuing this AD to address the unsafe              Airworthiness Limitations Section
                                                (IBR) of the service information listed in this         condition on these products.                           inspection is insufficient to detect early
                                                paragraph under 5 U.S.C. 552(a) and 1 CFR                                                                      crack development. The NPRM
                                                                                                        DATES: This AD is effective February 22,
                                                part 51.                                                                                                       proposed to require one time high and
                                                   (2) You must use this service information            2017.
                                                                                                          The Director of the Federal Register                 low frequency eddy current inspections
                                                as applicable to do the actions required by
                                                this AD, unless this AD specifies otherwise.            approved the incorporation by reference                of the affected fuselage skin for cracks,
                                                   (i) Airbus Service Bulletin A320–32–1416,            of a certain publication listed in this AD             and repair if necessary. We are issuing
                                                including Appendix 01, dated March 10,                  as of February 22, 2017.                               this AD to detect and correct cracks in
                                                2014.                                                   ADDRESSES: For service information                     the fuselage skin; such cracking could
                                                   (ii) Reserved.                                       identified in this final rule, contact                 result in reduced structural integrity of
                                                   (3) For service information identified in                                                                   the fuselage.
                                                                                                        Fokker Services B.V., Technical
                                                this AD, contact Airbus, Airworthiness                                                                            The European Aviation Safety Agency
                                                Office—EIAS, 1 Rond Point Maurice                       Services Dept., P.O. Box 1357, 2130 EL
                                                                                                        Hoofddorp, the Netherlands; telephone:                 (EASA), which is the Technical Agent
                                                Bellonte, 31707 Blagnac Cedex, France;                                                                         for the Member States of the European
                                                telephone +33 5 61 93 36 96; fax +33 5 61               +31 (0)88–6280–350; fax: +31 (0)88–
                                                                                                        6280–111; email: technicalservices@                    Union, has issued EASA Airworthiness
                                                93 44 51; email account.airworth-eas@
                                                airbus.com; Internet http://www.airbus.com.             fokker.com; Internet http://                           Directive Airworthiness Directive 2016–
                                                   (4) You may view this service information            www.myfokkerfleet.com. You may view                    0029R1, dated November 17, 2016
                                                at the FAA, Transport Airplane Directorate,             this referenced service information at                 (referred to after this as the Mandatory
                                                1601 Lind Avenue SW., Renton, WA. For                   the FAA, Transport Airplane                            Continuing Airworthiness Information,
                                                information on the availability of this
                                                                                                        Directorate, 1601 Lind Avenue SW.,                     or ‘‘the MCAI’’), to correct an unsafe
                                                material at the FAA, call 425–227–1221.                                                                        condition for certain Fokker Services
                                                   (5) You may view this service information            Renton, WA. For information on the
                                                                                                        availability of this material at the FAA,              B.V. Model F28 Mark 0100 airplanes.
                                                that is incorporated by reference at the                                                                       The MCAI states:
                                                National Archives and Records                           call 425–227–1221. It is also available
                                                Administration (NARA). For information on               on the Internet at http://                                A complementary fatigue and damage
                                                the availability of this material at NARA, call         www.regulations.gov by searching for                   tolerance analysis was accomplished by the
                                                202–741–6030, or go to: http://                         and locating Docket No. FAA–2016–                      design approval holder on the traffic
                                                www.archives.gov/federal-register/cfr/ibr-                                                                     collision avoidance system (TCAS) antenna
                                                                                                        9058.                                                  installation on the top of the fuselage
                                                locations.html.
                                                                                                        Examining the AD Docket                                between station (STA) 6805 and STA7305.
                                                   Issued in Renton, Washington, on January                                                                    Based on the results, it was determined that
                                                4, 2017.                                                  You may examine the AD docket on                     for the affected area, the current 58 000 flight
                                                Michael Kaszycki,                                       the Internet at http://                                cycles (FC) threshold of Airworthiness
                                                Acting Manager, Transport Airplane                      www.regulations.gov by searching for                   Limitations Section (ALS) inspection task
                                                Directorate, Aircraft Certification Service.            and locating Docket No. FAA–2016–                      533001–00–20 and 533028–00–20 (special
                                                                                                        9058; or in person at the Docket                       detailed inspection of longitudinal lap joints)
                                                [FR Doc. 2017–00408 Filed 1–17–17; 8:45 am]
                                                                                                        Management Facility between 9 a.m.                     is insufficient to timely detect possible crack
                                                BILLING CODE 4910–13–P                                                                                         development.
                                                                                                        and 5 p.m., Monday through Friday,                        This condition, if not detected and
                                                                                                        except Federal holidays. The AD docket                 corrected, could affect the structural integrity
                                                DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION                            contains this AD, the regulatory                       of the fuselage in this area.
                                                                                                        evaluation, any comments received, and                    To address this potential unsafe condition,
                                                Federal Aviation Administration                         other information. The street address for              Fokker Services published Service Bulletin
                                                                                                        the Docket Office (telephone 800–647–                  (SB) SBF100–53–130 to provide inspection
                                                14 CFR Part 39                                          5527) is Docket Management Facility,                   instructions.
                                                                                                                                                                  Consequently, EASA issued AD 2016–0029
                                                                                                        U.S. Department of Transportation,                     to require a one-time inspection of the
                                                [Docket No. FAA–2016–9058; Directorate
                                                Identifier 2016–NM–024–AD; Amendment                    Docket Operations, M–30, West                          fuselage skin around the largest TCAS
                                                39–18771; AD 2017–01–04]                                Building Ground Floor, Room W12–140,                   antenna external doubler and of the
                                                                                                        1200 New Jersey Avenue SE.,                            longitudinal lap joint at stringer (STR) 37
                                                RIN 2120–AA64                                           Washington, DC 20590.                                  between fuselage STA6805 and STA7305.
                                                                                                        FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Tom                      Since that [EASA] AD was issued, it was
                                                Airworthiness Directives; Fokker                                                                               discovered that another ALS inspection task,
                                                                                                        Rodriguez, Aerospace Engineer,
                                                Services B.V. Airplanes                                                                                        533028–00–20, is also related to this subject.
                                                                                                        International Branch, ANM–116,                         This [EASA] AD is revised to clarify that the
                                                AGENCY:  Federal Aviation                               Transport Airplane Directorate, FAA,                   inspection threshold of both ALS inspection
                                                Administration (FAA), Department of                     1601 Lind Avenue SW., Renton, WA                       tasks has been re-assessed. It is expected that
                                                Transportation (DOT).                                   98057–3356; telephone 425–227–1137;                    a repetitive inspection task will be included
mstockstill on DSK3G9T082PROD with RULES




                                                                                                        fax 425 227 1149.                                      in the ALS, which will cover only the area
                                                ACTION: Final rule.
                                                                                                                                                               close to the TCAS antenna installation. For
                                                                                                        SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION:
                                                SUMMARY:  We are adopting a new                                                                                the remainder of the affected lap joint, no
                                                                                                        Discussion                                             change is anticipated and this will therefore
                                                airworthiness directive (AD) for certain                                                                       continue to be inspected in accordance with
                                                Fokker Services B.V. Model F28 Mark                       We issued a notice of proposed                       the existing ALS tasks.
                                                0100 airplanes. This AD was prompted                    rulemaking (NPRM) to amend 14 CFR                         This [EASA] AD is still considered to be
                                                by an analysis which determined that,                   part 39 by adding an AD that would                     an interim action and further [EASA] AD



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Document Created: 2018-02-01 15:19:42
Document Modified: 2018-02-01 15:19:42
CategoryRegulatory Information
CollectionFederal Register
sudoc ClassAE 2.7:
GS 4.107:
AE 2.106:
PublisherOffice of the Federal Register, National Archives and Records Administration
SectionRules and Regulations
ActionFinal rule.
DatesThis AD is effective February 22, 2017.
ContactSanjay Ralhan, Aerospace Engineer, International Branch, ANM-116, Transport Airplane Directorate, FAA, 1601 Lind Avenue SW., Renton, WA 98057-3356; telephone 425-227-1405; fax 425-227-1149.
FR Citation82 FR 5362 
RIN Number2120-AA64
CFR AssociatedAir Transportation; Aircraft; Aviation Safety; Incorporation by Reference and Safety

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