83_FR_16866 83 FR 16792 - Airworthiness Directives; Saab AB, Saab Aeronautics (Formerly Known as Saab AB, Saab Aerosystems) Airplanes

83 FR 16792 - Airworthiness Directives; Saab AB, Saab Aeronautics (Formerly Known as Saab AB, Saab Aerosystems) Airplanes

DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION
Federal Aviation Administration

Federal Register Volume 83, Issue 74 (April 17, 2018)

Page Range16792-16794
FR Document2018-07636

We propose to supersede Airworthiness Directive (AD) 2016-13- 06, which applies to certain Saab AB, Saab Aeronautics Model 340A (SAAB/SF340A) and SAAB 340B airplanes. AD 2016-13-06 requires a revision of the applicable airplane flight manual (AFM), repetitive inspections of the horizontal stabilizer de-icing boots, and applicable corrective actions. Since we issued AD 2016-13-06, the manufacturer has developed an improved de-icing boot. This proposed AD would continue to require a revision of the applicable AFM, repetitive inspections of the horizontal stabilizer de-icing boots, and applicable corrective actions. This proposed AD would also require replacement of single stitched de-icing boots with improved double stitched boots, and re- identification of the modified horizontal stabilizer leading edge. We are proposing this AD to address the unsafe condition on these products.

Federal Register, Volume 83 Issue 74 (Tuesday, April 17, 2018)
[Federal Register Volume 83, Number 74 (Tuesday, April 17, 2018)]
[Proposed Rules]
[Pages 16792-16794]
From the Federal Register Online  [www.thefederalregister.org]
[FR Doc No: 2018-07636]


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DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION

Federal Aviation Administration

14 CFR Part 39

[Docket No. FAA-2018-0271; Product Identifier 2017-NM-111-AD]
RIN 2120-AA64


Airworthiness Directives; Saab AB, Saab Aeronautics (Formerly 
Known as Saab AB, Saab Aerosystems) Airplanes

AGENCY: Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), DOT.

ACTION: Notice of proposed rulemaking (NPRM).

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SUMMARY: We propose to supersede Airworthiness Directive (AD) 2016-13-
06, which applies to certain Saab AB, Saab Aeronautics Model 340A 
(SAAB/SF340A) and SAAB 340B airplanes. AD 2016-13-06 requires a 
revision of the applicable airplane flight manual (AFM), repetitive 
inspections of the horizontal stabilizer de-icing boots, and applicable 
corrective actions. Since we issued AD 2016-13-06, the manufacturer has 
developed an improved de-icing boot. This proposed AD would continue to 
require a revision of the applicable AFM, repetitive inspections of the 
horizontal stabilizer de-icing boots, and applicable corrective 
actions. This proposed AD would also require replacement of single 
stitched de-icing boots with improved double stitched boots, and re-
identification of the modified horizontal stabilizer leading edge. We 
are proposing this AD to address the unsafe condition on these 
products.

DATES: We must receive comments on this proposed AD by June 1, 2018.

ADDRESSES: You may send comments, using the procedures found in 14 CFR 
11.43 and 11.45, by any of the following methods:
     Federal eRulemaking Portal: Go to http://www.regulations.gov. Follow the instructions for submitting comments.
     Fax: 202-493-2251.
     Mail: U.S. Department of Transportation, Docket 
Operations, M-30, West Building Ground Floor, Room W12-140, 1200 New 
Jersey Avenue SE, Washington, DC 20590.
     Hand Delivery: Deliver to Mail address above between 9 
a.m. and 5 p.m., Monday through Friday, except Federal holidays.
    For service information identified in this NPRM, contact Saab AB, 
Saab Aeronautics, SE-581 88, Link[ouml]ping, Sweden; telephone: +46 13 
18 5591; fax: +46 13 18 4874; email: saab340techsupport@saabgroup.com; 
internet: http://www.saabgroup.com. You may view this referenced 
service information at the FAA, Transport Standards Branch, 2200 South 
216th St., Des Moines, WA. For information on the availability of this 
material at the FAA, call 206-231-3195.

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-2018-
0271; or in person at the Docket Management Facility between 9 a.m. and 
5 p.m., Monday through Friday, except Federal holidays. The AD docket 
contains this proposed AD, the regulatory evaluation, any comments 
received, and other information. The street address for the Docket 
Operations office (telephone: 800-647-5527) is in the ADDRESSES 
section. Comments will be available in the AD docket shortly after 
receipt.

FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Shahram Daneshmandi, Aerospace 
Engineer, International Section, Transport Standards Branch, FAA, 2200 
South 216th St., Des Moines, WA 98198; telephone and fax: 206-231-3220.

SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: 

Comments Invited

    We invite you to send any written relevant data, views, or 
arguments about this proposal. Send your comments to an address listed 
under the ADDRESSES section. Include ``Docket No. FAA-2018-0271; 
Product Identifier 2017-NM-111-AD'' at the beginning of your comments. 
We specifically invite comments on the overall regulatory, economic, 
environmental, and energy aspects of this proposed AD. We will consider 
all comments received by the closing date and may amend this proposed 
AD based on those comments.
    We will post all comments we receive, without change, to http://www.regulations.gov, including any personal information you provide. We 
will also post a report summarizing each substantive verbal contact we 
receive about this proposed AD.

Discussion

    We issued AD 2016-13-06, Amendment 39-18570 (81 FR 41432, June 27, 
2016) (``AD 2016-13-06''), for certain Saab AB, Saab Aeronautics Model 
340A (SAAB/SF340A) and SAAB 340B airplanes. AD 2016-13-06 was prompted 
by reports of ruptured horizontal stabilizer de-icing boots. AD 2016-
13-06 requires a revision of the applicable AFM, repetitive inspections 
of the horizontal stabilizer de-icing boots, and applicable corrective 
actions. We issued AD 2016-13-06 to detect and correct damage of the 
de-icing boot; such damage could lead to a ruptured boot, severe 
vibrations, and possible reduced control of the airplane.
    Since we issued AD 2016-13-06, the manufacturer has developed an 
improved de-icing boot, reinforced through double stitch lines.
    The European Aviation Safety Agency (EASA), which is the Technical 
Agent for the Member States of the European Union, has issued EASA AD 
2017-0144, dated August 9, 2017 (referred to after this as the 
Mandatory Continuing Airworthiness Information, or ``the MCAI''), to 
correct an unsafe condition for certain Saab AB, Saab Aeronautics Model 
340A (SAAB/SF340A) and SAAB 340B airplanes. The MCAI states:

    Several occurrences were reported of rupture of the horizontal 
stabilizer de-icing boot in flight. In some of the reported events, 
the de-icing boot had formed a large open scoop.
    This condition, if not detected and corrected, could lead to 
complete loss of the de-icing function within its associated zone 
and severe vibrations, possibly resulting in reduced control of the 
aeroplane.
    To address this potential unsafe condition, Saab AB, Aeronautics 
(hereafter referred to as ``Saab'' in this [EASA] AD) issued Alert 
Operations Bulletin (AOB) No. 12 and AOB No. 23 as temporary 
measures, recommending to select Flaps 0 for landing in the event of 
a suspected rupture of the de-icing boot on the horizontal 
stabilizer. In addition, Saab issued SB [Service Bulletin] 340-30-
094 providing instructions for inspection of de-icing boots.

[[Page 16793]]

    Consequently, EASA issued AD 2015-0129 [which corresponds to FAA 
AD 2016-13-06] to require amendment of the applicable Aircraft 
Flight Manual (AFM), repetitive inspections of the horizontal 
stabilizer de-icing boots and, depending on findings, accomplishment 
of applicable corrective action(s).
    Since that [EASA] AD was issued, Saab developed an improved de-
icing boot, reinforced through double stitch lines, and issued SB 
340-30-095 providing instructions for boot replacement.
    For the reason described above, this [EASA] AD retains the 
requirements of EASA AD 2015-0129, which is superseded, and requires 
replacement of single stitched de-icing boots, installed on the 
left-hand (LH) and right-hand (RH) horizontal stabilizer, with 
improved double stitched boots, and re-identification of the 
modified horizontal stabilizer leading edge.

    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-2018-
0271.

Related Service Information Under 1 CFR Part 51

    Saab AB, Saab Aeronautics has issued the following service 
information.
     Service Bulletin 340-30-094, dated March 27, 2015. This 
service information describes procedures for repetitive detailed 
inspections of the de-icing boots installed on the horizontal 
stabilizers, and repair and replacement of damaged de-icing boots.
     Service Bulletin 340-30-095, dated April 3, 2017. This 
service information describes procedures for replacement of single 
stitched de-icing boots with improved double stitched boots, and re-
identification of the modified horizontal stabilizer leading edge.
    Saab AB, Saab Aeronautics has also issued the following AFMs, which 
describe performance limitations and general data. These AFMs are 
distinct since they apply to different airplane models in different 
configurations.
     AFM 340A 001, Revision 57, dated March 27, 2015.
     AFM 340B 001, Revision 35, dated March 27, 2015.
     AFM 340B 010, Revision 28, dated March 27, 2015.
    This service information is reasonably available because the 
interested parties have access to it through their normal course of 
business or by the means identified in the ADDRESSES section.

FAA's Determination and Requirements of This Proposed AD

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

Costs of Compliance

    We estimate that this proposed AD affects 51 airplanes of U.S. 
registry.
    The actions required by AD 2016-13-06, and retained in this 
proposed AD take about 6 work-hours per product, at an average labor 
rate of $85 per work-hour. Based on these figures, the estimated cost 
of the actions that are required by AD 2016-13-06 is $510 per product.
    In addition, we estimate that any necessary follow-on actions 
required by AD 2016-13-06, and retained in this proposed AD take about 
6 work-hours and require parts costing $9,500, for a cost of $10,010 
per product. We have no way of determining the number of aircraft that 
might need these actions.
    We also estimate that it would take about 6 work-hours per product 
to comply with the basic requirements of this proposed AD. The average 
labor rate is $85 per work-hour. Required parts would cost about 
$13,500 per product. Based on these figures, we estimate the cost of 
this proposed AD on U.S. operators to be $714,510, or $14,010 per 
product.

Authority for This Rulemaking

    Title 49 of the United States Code specifies the FAA's authority to 
issue rules on aviation safety. Subtitle I, section 106, describes the 
authority of the FAA Administrator. ``Subtitle VII: Aviation 
Programs,'' describes in more detail the scope of the Agency's 
authority.
    We are issuing this rulemaking under the authority described in 
``Subtitle VII, Part A, Subpart III, Section 44701: General 
requirements.'' Under that section, Congress charges the FAA with 
promoting safe flight of civil aircraft in air commerce by prescribing 
regulations for practices, methods, and procedures the Administrator 
finds necessary for safety in air commerce. This regulation is within 
the scope of that authority because it addresses an unsafe condition 
that is likely to exist or develop on products identified in this 
rulemaking action.
    This AD is issued in accordance with authority delegated by the 
Executive Director, Aircraft Certification Service, as authorized by 
FAA Order 8000.51C. In accordance with that order, issuance of ADs is 
normally a function of the Compliance and Airworthiness Division, but 
during this transition period, the Executive Director has delegated the 
authority to issue ADs applicable to transport category airplanes to 
the Director of the System Oversight Division.

Regulatory Findings

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

List of Subjects in 14 CFR Part 39

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

The Proposed Amendment

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

PART 39--AIRWORTHINESS DIRECTIVES

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

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


Sec.  39.13   [Amended]

0
2. The FAA amends Sec.  39.13 by removing Airworthiness Directive (AD) 
2016-13-06, Amendment 39-18570 (81 FR 41432, June 27, 2016), and adding 
the following new AD:

Saab AB, Saab Aeronautics (Formerly Known as Saab AB, Saab 
Aerosystems): Docket No. FAA-2018-0271; Product Identifier 2017-NM-
111-AD.

(a) Comments Due Date

    We must receive comments by June 1, 2018.

[[Page 16794]]

(b) Affected ADs

    This AD replaces AD 2016-13-06, Amendment 39-18570 (81 FR 41432, 
June 27, 2016) (``AD 2016-13-06'').

(c) Applicability

    This AD applies to Saab AB, Saab Aeronautics (formerly known as 
Saab AB, Saab Aerosystems) airplanes, certificated in any category, 
identified in paragraphs (c)(1) and (c)(2), of this AD.
    (1) Saab AB, Saab Aeronautics Model 340A (SAAB/SF340A) 
airplanes, serial numbers 004 through 138 inclusive, if Saab 
modification 1462 has been embodied in production, or Saab Service 
Bulletin 340-55-008 has been embodied in service, except those that 
have also embodied Saab modification 1793 in production, or Saab 
Service Bulletin 340-55-010 in service; and serial numbers 139 
through 159 inclusive.
    (2) Saab AB, Saab Aeronautics Model SAAB 340B airplanes, serial 
numbers 160 through 459 inclusive.

(d) Subject

    Air Transport Association (ATA) of America Code 30, Ice and rain 
protection.

(e) Reason

    This AD was prompted by reports of ruptured horizontal 
stabilizer de-icing boots. We are issuing this AD to detect and 
correct ruptured horizontal stabilizer de-icing boots, which could 
lead to complete loss of the de-icing function within its associated 
zone and severe vibrations, possibly resulting in reduced control of 
the airplane.

(f) Compliance

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

(g) Retained Revision of the Airplane Flight Manual (AFM), With No 
Changes

    This paragraph restates the requirements of paragraph (g) of AD 
2016-13-06, with no changes. Within 30 days after August 1, 2016 
(the effective date of AD 2016-13-06), revise the ``Abnormal 
Procedures'' section of the applicable Saab 340 AFM to incorporate 
the revision specified in paragraphs (g)(1) through (g)(3) of this 
AD.
    (1) For Saab AB, Saab Aeronautics Model 340A (SAAB/SF340A) 
airplanes, revise AFM 340A 001 by incorporating Revision 57, dated 
March 27, 2015.
    (2) For Saab AB, Saab Aeronautics Model SAAB 340B airplanes, 
revise AFM 340B 001 by incorporating Revision 35, dated March 27, 
2015.
    (3) For Saab AB, Saab Aeronautics Model SAAB 340B airplanes with 
extended wing tips, revise AFM 340B 010 by incorporating Revision 
28, dated March 27, 2015.

(h) Retained Inspection/Replacement, With No Changes

    This paragraph restates the requirements of paragraph (h) of AD 
2016-13-06, with no changes. Within 400 flight hours or 6 months, 
whichever occurs first after August 1, 2016 (the effective date of 
AD 2016-13-06), do a detailed inspection for damage of the 
horizontal stabilizer de-icing boots, and existing repairs of 
horizontal stabilizer de-icing boots, in accordance with the 
Accomplishment Instructions of Saab Service Bulletin 340-30-094, 
dated March 27, 2015. Repeat the inspection thereafter at intervals 
not to exceed 400 flight hours. If, during any inspection required 
by this paragraph, any damage or existing repair outside the limits 
specified in Saab Service Bulletin 340-30-094, dated March 27, 2015, 
is found, before further flight, repair or replace the horizontal 
stabilizer de-icing boots, in accordance with the Accomplishment 
Instructions of Saab Service Bulletin 340-30-094, dated March 27, 
2015. Repair or replacement on an airplane of the horizontal 
stabilizer de-icing boots, as required by this paragraph, does not 
constitute terminating action for the repetitive inspections 
required by this paragraph for that airplane.

(i) New Requirement of This AD: Modification

    Within 18 months after the effective date of this AD, modify the 
airplane by replacing the single stitched de-icing boots installed 
on the left-hand (LH) and right-hand (RH) horizontal stabilizers 
with double stitched de-icing boots and re-identify the LH and RH 
horizontal stabilizer leading edge, in accordance with the 
Accomplishment Instructions of Saab Service Bulletin 340-30-095, 
dated April 3, 2017.

(j) Terminating Action

    Modification of the airplane as required by paragraph (i) of 
this AD, constitutes terminating action for the repetitive 
inspections required by paragraph (h) of this AD, for that airplane.

(k) Other FAA AD Provisions

    (1) Alternative Methods of Compliance (AMOCs): The Manager, 
International Section, Transport Standards 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 International Section, send it to the attention of 
the person identified in paragraph (l)(2) of this AD. Information 
may be emailed to: 9-ANM-116-AMOC-REQUESTS@faa.gov. Before using any 
approved AMOC, notify your appropriate principal inspector, or 
lacking a principal inspector, the manager of the local flight 
standards district office/certificate holding district office.
    (2) Contacting the Manufacturer: As of the effective date of 
this AD, for any requirement in this AD to obtain corrective actions 
from a manufacturer, the action must be accomplished using a method 
approved by the Manager, International Section, Transport Standards 
Branch, FAA; or the European Aviation Safety Agency (EASA); or Saab 
AB, Saab Aeronautics EASA Design Organization Approval (DOA). If 
approved by the DOA, the approval must include the DOA-authorized 
signature.

(l) Related Information

    (1) Refer to Mandatory Continuing Airworthiness Information 
(MCAI) EASA AD 2017-0144, dated August 9, 2017, 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-2018-0271.
    (2) For more information about this AD, contact Shahram 
Daneshmandi, Aerospace Engineer, International Section, Transport 
Standards Branch, FAA, 2200 South 216th St., Des Moines, WA 98198; 
telephone and fax: 206-231-3220.
    (3) For service information identified in this AD, contact Saab 
AB, Saab Aeronautics, SE-581 88, Link[ouml]ping, Sweden; telephone: 
+46 13 18 5591; fax: +46 13 18 4874; email: 
saab340techsupport@saabgroup.com; internet: http://www.saabgroup.com. You may view this service information at the FAA, 
Transport Standards Branch, 2200 South 216th St., Des Moines, WA. 
For information on the availability of this material at the FAA, 
call 206-231-3195.

    Issued in Des Moines, Washington, on March 30, 2018.
Chris Spangenberg,
Acting Director, System Oversight Division, Aircraft Certification 
Service.
[FR Doc. 2018-07636 Filed 4-16-18; 8:45 am]
 BILLING CODE 4910-13-P



                                               16792                    Federal Register / Vol. 83, No. 74 / Tuesday, April 17, 2018 / Proposed Rules

                                               on the internet at http://www.regulations.gov           the modified horizontal stabilizer                     2018–0271; Product Identifier 2017–
                                               by searching for and locating Docket No.                leading edge. We are proposing this AD                 NM–111–AD’’ at the beginning of your
                                               FAA–2018–0277.                                          to address the unsafe condition on these               comments. We specifically invite
                                                  (2) For more information about this AD,              products.                                              comments on the overall regulatory,
                                               contact Dan Rodina, Aerospace Engineer,
                                               International Section, Transport Standards              DATES: We must receive comments on                     economic, environmental, and energy
                                               Branch, FAA, 2200 South 216th St., Des                  this proposed AD by June 1, 2018.                      aspects of this proposed AD. We will
                                               Moines, WA 98198; telephone and fax 206–                ADDRESSES: You may send comments,
                                                                                                                                                              consider all comments received by the
                                               231–3225.                                               using the procedures found in 14 CFR                   closing date and may amend this
                                                  (3) For service information identified in            11.43 and 11.45, by any of the following               proposed AD based on those comments.
                                               this AD, contact Airbus SAS, Airworthiness                                                                       We will post all comments we
                                                                                                       methods:
                                               Office—EAW, 1 Rond Point Maurice                                                                               receive, without change, to http://
                                               Bellonte, 31707 Blagnac Cedex, France;
                                                                                                         • Federal eRulemaking Portal: Go to
                                                                                                                                                              www.regulations.gov, including any
                                               telephone +33 5 61 93 36 96; fax +33 5 61               http://www.regulations.gov. Follow the
                                                                                                                                                              personal information you provide. We
                                               93 44 51; email account.airworth-eas@                   instructions for submitting comments.
                                                                                                         • Fax: 202–493–2251.                                 will also post a report summarizing each
                                               airbus.com; internet http://www.airbus.com.                                                                    substantive verbal contact we receive
                                               You may view this service information at the              • Mail: U.S. Department of
                                               FAA, Transport Standards Branch, 2200                   Transportation, Docket Operations, M–                  about this proposed AD.
                                               South 216th St., Des Moines, WA. For                    30, West Building Ground Floor, Room                   Discussion
                                               information on the availability of this                 W12–140, 1200 New Jersey Avenue SE,
                                               material at the FAA, call 206–231–3195.                                                                          We issued AD 2016–13–06,
                                                                                                       Washington, DC 20590.                                  Amendment 39–18570 (81 FR 41432,
                                                 Issued in Des Moines, Washington, on                    • Hand Delivery: Deliver to Mail                     June 27, 2016) (‘‘AD 2016–13–06’’), for
                                               March 30, 2018.                                         address above between 9 a.m. and 5                     certain Saab AB, Saab Aeronautics
                                               Chris Spangenberg,                                      p.m., Monday through Friday, except                    Model 340A (SAAB/SF340A) and SAAB
                                               Acting Director, System Oversight Division,             Federal holidays.                                      340B airplanes. AD 2016–13–06 was
                                               Aircraft Certification Service.                           For service information identified in                prompted by reports of ruptured
                                               [FR Doc. 2018–07626 Filed 4–16–18; 8:45 am]             this NPRM, contact Saab AB, Saab                       horizontal stabilizer de-icing boots. AD
                                               BILLING CODE 4910–13–P                                  Aeronautics, SE–581 88, Linköping,                    2016–13–06 requires a revision of the
                                                                                                       Sweden; telephone: +46 13 18 5591; fax:                applicable AFM, repetitive inspections
                                                                                                       +46 13 18 4874; email:                                 of the horizontal stabilizer de-icing
                                               DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION                            saab340techsupport@saabgroup.com;                      boots, and applicable corrective actions.
                                                                                                       internet: http://www.saabgroup.com.                    We issued AD 2016–13–06 to detect and
                                               Federal Aviation Administration                         You may view this referenced service                   correct damage of the de-icing boot;
                                                                                                       information at the FAA, Transport                      such damage could lead to a ruptured
                                               14 CFR Part 39                                          Standards Branch, 2200 South 216th St.,                boot, severe vibrations, and possible
                                               [Docket No. FAA–2018–0271; Product                      Des Moines, WA. For information on the                 reduced control of the airplane.
                                               Identifier 2017–NM–111–AD]                              availability of this material at the FAA,                Since we issued AD 2016–13–06, the
                                                                                                       call 206–231–3195.                                     manufacturer has developed an
                                               RIN 2120–AA64
                                                                                                       Examining the AD Docket                                improved de-icing boot, reinforced
                                               Airworthiness Directives; Saab AB,                                                                             through double stitch lines.
                                                                                                          You may examine the AD docket on                      The European Aviation Safety Agency
                                               Saab Aeronautics (Formerly Known as                     the internet at http://
                                               Saab AB, Saab Aerosystems)                                                                                     (EASA), which is the Technical Agent
                                                                                                       www.regulations.gov by searching for                   for the Member States of the European
                                               Airplanes                                               and locating Docket No. FAA–2018–                      Union, has issued EASA AD 2017–0144,
                                               AGENCY: Federal Aviation                                0271; or in person at the Docket                       dated August 9, 2017 (referred to after
                                               Administration (FAA), DOT.                              Management Facility between 9 a.m.                     this as the Mandatory Continuing
                                                                                                       and 5 p.m., Monday through Friday,                     Airworthiness Information, or ‘‘the
                                               ACTION: Notice of proposed rulemaking
                                                                                                       except Federal holidays. The AD docket                 MCAI’’), to correct an unsafe condition
                                               (NPRM).
                                                                                                       contains this proposed AD, the                         for certain Saab AB, Saab Aeronautics
                                               SUMMARY:  We propose to supersede                       regulatory evaluation, any comments                    Model 340A (SAAB/SF340A) and SAAB
                                               Airworthiness Directive (AD) 2016–13–                   received, and other information. The                   340B airplanes. The MCAI states:
                                               06, which applies to certain Saab AB,                   street address for the Docket Operations
                                                                                                       office (telephone: 800–647–5527) is in                    Several occurrences were reported of
                                               Saab Aeronautics Model 340A (SAAB/                                                                             rupture of the horizontal stabilizer de-icing
                                               SF340A) and SAAB 340B airplanes. AD                     the ADDRESSES section. Comments will                   boot in flight. In some of the reported events,
                                               2016–13–06 requires a revision of the                   be available in the AD docket shortly                  the de-icing boot had formed a large open
                                               applicable airplane flight manual                       after receipt.                                         scoop.
                                               (AFM), repetitive inspections of the                    FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT:                          This condition, if not detected and
                                               horizontal stabilizer de-icing boots, and               Shahram Daneshmandi, Aerospace                         corrected, could lead to complete loss of the
                                                                                                       Engineer, International Section,                       de-icing function within its associated zone
                                               applicable corrective actions. Since we                                                                        and severe vibrations, possibly resulting in
                                               issued AD 2016–13–06, the                               Transport Standards Branch, FAA, 2200                  reduced control of the aeroplane.
                                               manufacturer has developed an                           South 216th St., Des Moines, WA 98198;                    To address this potential unsafe condition,
                                               improved de-icing boot. This proposed                   telephone and fax: 206–231–3220.                       Saab AB, Aeronautics (hereafter referred to as
amozie on DSK30RV082PROD with PROPOSALS




                                               AD would continue to require a revision                 SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION:                             ‘‘Saab’’ in this [EASA] AD) issued Alert
                                               of the applicable AFM, repetitive                                                                              Operations Bulletin (AOB) No. 12 and AOB
                                               inspections of the horizontal stabilizer                Comments Invited                                       No. 23 as temporary measures,
                                               de-icing boots, and applicable corrective                                                                      recommending to select Flaps 0 for landing
                                                                                                         We invite you to send any written
                                                                                                                                                              in the event of a suspected rupture of the de-
                                               actions. This proposed AD would also                    relevant data, views, or arguments about               icing boot on the horizontal stabilizer. In
                                               require replacement of single stitched                  this proposal. Send your comments to                   addition, Saab issued SB [Service Bulletin]
                                               de-icing boots with improved double                     an address listed under the ADDRESSES                  340–30–094 providing instructions for
                                               stitched boots, and re-identification of                section. Include ‘‘Docket No. FAA–                     inspection of de-icing boots.



                                          VerDate Sep<11>2014   17:36 Apr 16, 2018   Jkt 244001   PO 00000   Frm 00006   Fmt 4702   Sfmt 4702   E:\FR\FM\17APP1.SGM   17APP1


                                                                        Federal Register / Vol. 83, No. 74 / Tuesday, April 17, 2018 / Proposed Rules                                               16793

                                                  Consequently, EASA issued AD 2015–0129               Design Authority, we have been notified                of ADs is normally a function of the
                                               [which corresponds to FAA AD 2016–13–06]                of the unsafe condition described in the               Compliance and Airworthiness
                                               to require amendment of the applicable                  MCAI and service information                           Division, but during this transition
                                               Aircraft Flight Manual (AFM), repetitive                referenced above. We are proposing this                period, the Executive Director has
                                               inspections of the horizontal stabilizer de-
                                               icing boots and, depending on findings,
                                                                                                       AD because we evaluated all pertinent                  delegated the authority to issue ADs
                                               accomplishment of applicable corrective                 information and determined an unsafe                   applicable to transport category
                                               action(s).                                              condition exists and is likely to exist or             airplanes to the Director of the System
                                                  Since that [EASA] AD was issued, Saab                develop on other products of these same                Oversight Division.
                                               developed an improved de-icing boot,                    type designs.
                                               reinforced through double stitch lines, and
                                                                                                                                                              Regulatory Findings
                                               issued SB 340–30–095 providing instructions             Costs of Compliance
                                                                                                                                                                We determined that this proposed AD
                                               for boot replacement.                                      We estimate that this proposed AD                   would not have federalism implications
                                                  For the reason described above, this                 affects 51 airplanes of U.S. registry.
                                               [EASA] AD retains the requirements of EASA                                                                     under Executive Order 13132. This
                                                                                                          The actions required by AD 2016–13–                 proposed AD would not have a
                                               AD 2015–0129, which is superseded, and                  06, and retained in this proposed AD
                                               requires replacement of single stitched de-                                                                    substantial direct effect on the States, on
                                                                                                       take about 6 work-hours per product, at                the relationship between the national
                                               icing boots, installed on the left-hand (LH)
                                               and right-hand (RH) horizontal stabilizer,              an average labor rate of $85 per work-                 Government and the States, or on the
                                               with improved double stitched boots, and re-            hour. Based on these figures, the                      distribution of power and
                                               identification of the modified horizontal               estimated cost of the actions that are                 responsibilities among the various
                                               stabilizer leading edge.                                required by AD 2016–13–06 is $510 per                  levels of government.
                                                 You may examine the MCAI in the                       product.
                                                                                                          In addition, we estimate that any                     For the reasons discussed above, I
                                               AD docket on the internet at http://                                                                           certify this proposed regulation:
                                                                                                       necessary follow-on actions required by
                                               www.regulations.gov by searching for
                                                                                                       AD 2016–13–06, and retained in this                      1. Is not a ‘‘significant regulatory
                                               and locating Docket No. FAA–2018–
                                                                                                       proposed AD take about 6 work-hours                    action’’ under Executive Order 12866;
                                               0271.
                                                                                                       and require parts costing $9,500, for a                  2. Is not a ‘‘significant rule’’ under the
                                               Related Service Information Under                       cost of $10,010 per product. We have no                DOT Regulatory Policies and Procedures
                                               1 CFR Part 51                                           way of determining the number of                       (44 FR 11034, February 26, 1979);
                                                  Saab AB, Saab Aeronautics has issued                 aircraft that might need these actions.                  3. Will not affect intrastate aviation in
                                               the following service information.                         We also estimate that it would take
                                                                                                                                                              Alaska; and
                                                  • Service Bulletin 340–30–094, dated                 about 6 work-hours per product to
                                                                                                       comply with the basic requirements of                    4. Will not have a significant
                                               March 27, 2015. This service                                                                                   economic impact, positive or negative,
                                               information describes procedures for                    this proposed AD. The average labor
                                                                                                       rate is $85 per work-hour. Required                    on a substantial number of small entities
                                               repetitive detailed inspections of the de-                                                                     under the criteria of the Regulatory
                                               icing boots installed on the horizontal                 parts would cost about $13,500 per
                                                                                                       product. Based on these figures, we                    Flexibility Act.
                                               stabilizers, and repair and replacement
                                               of damaged de-icing boots.                              estimate the cost of this proposed AD on               List of Subjects in 14 CFR Part 39
                                                  • Service Bulletin 340–30–095, dated                 U.S. operators to be $714,510, or
                                               April 3, 2017. This service information                 $14,010 per product.                                     Air transportation, Aircraft, Aviation
                                               describes procedures for replacement of                                                                        safety, Incorporation by reference,
                                                                                                       Authority for This Rulemaking                          Safety.
                                               single stitched de-icing boots with
                                               improved double stitched boots, and re-                    Title 49 of the United States Code
                                                                                                                                                              The Proposed Amendment
                                               identification of the modified horizontal               specifies the FAA’s authority to issue
                                               stabilizer leading edge.                                rules on aviation safety. Subtitle I,                    Accordingly, under the authority
                                                  Saab AB, Saab Aeronautics has also                   section 106, describes the authority of                delegated to me by the Administrator,
                                               issued the following AFMs, which                        the FAA Administrator. ‘‘Subtitle VII:                 the FAA proposes to amend 14 CFR part
                                               describe performance limitations and                    Aviation Programs,’’ describes in more                 39 as follows:
                                               general data. These AFMs are distinct                   detail the scope of the Agency’s
                                               since they apply to different airplane                  authority.                                             PART 39—AIRWORTHINESS
                                               models in different configurations.                        We are issuing this rulemaking under                DIRECTIVES
                                                  • AFM 340A 001, Revision 57, dated                   the authority described in ‘‘Subtitle VII,
                                               March 27, 2015.                                         Part A, Subpart III, Section 44701:                    ■ 1. The authority citation for part 39
                                                  • AFM 340B 001, Revision 35, dated                   General requirements.’’ Under that                     continues to read as follows:
                                               March 27, 2015.                                         section, Congress charges the FAA with                     Authority: 49 U.S.C. 106(g), 40113, 44701.
                                                  • AFM 340B 010, Revision 28, dated                   promoting safe flight of civil aircraft in
                                               March 27, 2015.                                         air commerce by prescribing regulations                § 39.13   [Amended]
                                                  This service information is reasonably               for practices, methods, and procedures                 ■ 2. The FAA amends § 39.13 by
                                               available because the interested parties                the Administrator finds necessary for                  removing Airworthiness Directive (AD)
                                               have access to it through their normal                  safety in air commerce. This regulation                2016–13–06, Amendment 39–18570 (81
                                               course of business or by the means                      is within the scope of that authority                  FR 41432, June 27, 2016), and adding
                                               identified in the ADDRESSES section.                    because it addresses an unsafe condition               the following new AD:
amozie on DSK30RV082PROD with PROPOSALS




                                                                                                       that is likely to exist or develop on
                                               FAA’s Determination and Requirements                    products identified in this rulemaking                 Saab AB, Saab Aeronautics (Formerly
                                               of This Proposed AD                                     action.                                                   Known as Saab AB, Saab Aerosystems):
                                                                                                          This AD is issued in accordance with                   Docket No. FAA–2018–0271; Product
                                                 This product has been approved by
                                                                                                                                                                 Identifier 2017–NM–111–AD.
                                               the aviation authority of another                       authority delegated by the Executive
                                               country, and is approved for operation                  Director, Aircraft Certification Service,              (a) Comments Due Date
                                               in the United States. Pursuant to our                   as authorized by FAA Order 8000.51C.                     We must receive comments by June 1,
                                               bilateral agreement with the State of                   In accordance with that order, issuance                2018.



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                                               16794                    Federal Register / Vol. 83, No. 74 / Tuesday, April 17, 2018 / Proposed Rules

                                               (b) Affected ADs                                        icing boots, in accordance with the                    information. This MCAI may be found in the
                                                 This AD replaces AD 2016–13–06,                       Accomplishment Instructions of Saab Service            AD docket on the internet at http://
                                               Amendment 39–18570 (81 FR 41432, June                   Bulletin 340–30–094, dated March 27, 2015.             www.regulations.gov by searching for and
                                               27, 2016) (‘‘AD 2016–13–06’’).                          Repeat the inspection thereafter at intervals          locating Docket No. FAA–2018–0271.
                                                                                                       not to exceed 400 flight hours. If, during any           (2) For more information about this AD,
                                               (c) Applicability                                       inspection required by this paragraph, any             contact Shahram Daneshmandi, Aerospace
                                                  This AD applies to Saab AB, Saab                     damage or existing repair outside the limits           Engineer, International Section, Transport
                                               Aeronautics (formerly known as Saab AB,                 specified in Saab Service Bulletin 340–30–             Standards Branch, FAA, 2200 South 216th
                                               Saab Aerosystems) airplanes, certificated in            094, dated March 27, 2015, is found, before            St., Des Moines, WA 98198; telephone and
                                               any category, identified in paragraphs (c)(1)           further flight, repair or replace the horizontal       fax: 206–231–3220.
                                               and (c)(2), of this AD.                                 stabilizer de-icing boots, in accordance with            (3) For service information identified in
                                                  (1) Saab AB, Saab Aeronautics Model 340A             the Accomplishment Instructions of Saab                this AD, contact Saab AB, Saab Aeronautics,
                                               (SAAB/SF340A) airplanes, serial numbers                 Service Bulletin 340–30–094, dated March               SE–581 88, Linköping, Sweden; telephone:
                                               004 through 138 inclusive, if Saab                      27, 2015. Repair or replacement on an                  +46 13 18 5591; fax: +46 13 18 4874; email:
                                               modification 1462 has been embodied in                  airplane of the horizontal stabilizer de-icing         saab340techsupport@saabgroup.com;
                                               production, or Saab Service Bulletin 340–55–            boots, as required by this paragraph, does not         internet: http://www.saabgroup.com. You
                                               008 has been embodied in service, except                constitute terminating action for the                  may view this service information at the
                                               those that have also embodied Saab                      repetitive inspections required by this                FAA, Transport Standards Branch, 2200
                                               modification 1793 in production, or Saab                paragraph for that airplane.                           South 216th St., Des Moines, WA. For
                                               Service Bulletin 340–55–010 in service; and             (i) New Requirement of This AD:                        information on the availability of this
                                               serial numbers 139 through 159 inclusive.               Modification                                           material at the FAA, call 206–231–3195.
                                                  (2) Saab AB, Saab Aeronautics Model
                                                                                                          Within 18 months after the effective date             Issued in Des Moines, Washington, on
                                               SAAB 340B airplanes, serial numbers 160
                                                                                                       of this AD, modify the airplane by replacing           March 30, 2018.
                                               through 459 inclusive.
                                                                                                       the single stitched de-icing boots installed on        Chris Spangenberg,
                                               (d) Subject                                             the left-hand (LH) and right-hand (RH)                 Acting Director, System Oversight Division,
                                                 Air Transport Association (ATA) of                    horizontal stabilizers with double stitched            Aircraft Certification Service.
                                               America Code 30, Ice and rain protection.               de-icing boots and re-identify the LH and RH
                                                                                                                                                              [FR Doc. 2018–07636 Filed 4–16–18; 8:45 am]
                                                                                                       horizontal stabilizer leading edge, in
                                               (e) Reason                                              accordance with the Accomplishment                     BILLING CODE 4910–13–P
                                                  This AD was prompted by reports of                   Instructions of Saab Service Bulletin 340–30–
                                               ruptured horizontal stabilizer de-icing boots.          095, dated April 3, 2017.
                                               We are issuing this AD to detect and correct                                                                   DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION
                                                                                                       (j) Terminating Action
                                               ruptured horizontal stabilizer de-icing boots,
                                               which could lead to complete loss of the de-               Modification of the airplane as required by         Federal Aviation Administration
                                               icing function within its associated zone and           paragraph (i) of this AD, constitutes
                                               severe vibrations, possibly resulting in                terminating action for the repetitive                  14 CFR Part 39
                                               reduced control of the airplane.                        inspections required by paragraph (h) of this
                                                                                                       AD, for that airplane.                                 [Docket No. FAA–2018–0142; Product
                                               (f) Compliance                                                                                                 Identifier 2018–NE–04–AD]
                                                                                                       (k) Other FAA AD Provisions
                                                  Comply with this AD within the
                                               compliance times specified, unless already                 (1) Alternative Methods of Compliance               RIN 2120–AA64
                                               done.                                                   (AMOCs): The Manager, International
                                                                                                       Section, Transport Standards Branch, FAA,              Airworthiness Directives; General
                                               (g) Retained Revision of the Airplane Flight            has the authority to approve AMOCs for this            Electric Company CF34–8E Engines
                                               Manual (AFM), With No Changes                           AD, if requested using the procedures found
                                                  This paragraph restates the requirements of          in 14 CFR 39.19. In accordance with 14 CFR             AGENCY: Federal Aviation
                                               paragraph (g) of AD 2016–13–06, with no                 39.19, send your request to your principal             Administration (FAA), DOT.
                                               changes. Within 30 days after August 1, 2016            inspector or local Flight Standards District           ACTION: Notice of proposed rulemaking
                                               (the effective date of AD 2016–13–06), revise           Office, as appropriate. If sending information         (NPRM).
                                               the ‘‘Abnormal Procedures’’ section of the              directly to the International Section, send it
                                               applicable Saab 340 AFM to incorporate the              to the attention of the person identified in           SUMMARY:   We propose to adopt a new
                                               revision specified in paragraphs (g)(1)                 paragraph (l)(2) of this AD. Information may           airworthiness directive (AD) for all
                                               through (g)(3) of this AD.                              be emailed to: 9-ANM-116-AMOC-                         General Electric Company (GE) CF34–8E
                                                  (1) For Saab AB, Saab Aeronautics Model              REQUESTS@faa.gov. Before using any                     turbofan engines. This proposed AD was
                                               340A (SAAB/SF340A) airplanes, revise AFM                approved AMOC, notify your appropriate
                                                                                                                                                              prompted by a report from GE regarding
                                               340A 001 by incorporating Revision 57,                  principal inspector, or lacking a principal
                                               dated March 27, 2015.                                   inspector, the manager of the local flight             a quality escape of nonconforming
                                                  (2) For Saab AB, Saab Aeronautics Model              standards district office/certificate holding          thrust reverser fire seals. This proposed
                                               SAAB 340B airplanes, revise AFM 340B 001                district office.                                       AD would require a one-time inspection
                                               by incorporating Revision 35, dated March                  (2) Contacting the Manufacturer: As of the          of the gap between the core cowl seal
                                               27, 2015.                                               effective date of this AD, for any requirement         and the pylon seal of the thrust reverser
                                                  (3) For Saab AB, Saab Aeronautics Model              in this AD to obtain corrective actions from           for correct gap width, and replacement
                                               SAAB 340B airplanes with extended wing                  a manufacturer, the action must be                     of the seals, if needed. We are proposing
                                               tips, revise AFM 340B 010 by incorporating              accomplished using a method approved by
                                                                                                                                                              this AD to address the unsafe condition
                                               Revision 28, dated March 27, 2015.                      the Manager, International Section, Transport
                                                                                                       Standards Branch, FAA; or the European                 on these products.
                                               (h) Retained Inspection/Replacement, With               Aviation Safety Agency (EASA); or Saab AB,             DATES: We must receive comments on
                                               No Changes                                                                                                     this proposed AD by June 1, 2018.
amozie on DSK30RV082PROD with PROPOSALS




                                                                                                       Saab Aeronautics EASA Design Organization
                                                  This paragraph restates the requirements of          Approval (DOA). If approved by the DOA,                ADDRESSES: You may send comments,
                                               paragraph (h) of AD 2016–13–06, with no                 the approval must include the DOA-                     using the procedures found in 14 CFR
                                               changes. Within 400 flight hours or 6                   authorized signature.
                                               months, whichever occurs first after August                                                                    11.43 and 11.45, by any of the following
                                               1, 2016 (the effective date of AD 2016–13–              (l) Related Information                                methods:
                                               06), do a detailed inspection for damage of                (1) Refer to Mandatory Continuing                     • Federal eRulemaking Portal: Go to
                                               the horizontal stabilizer de-icing boots, and           Airworthiness Information (MCAI) EASA AD               http://www.regulations.gov. Follow the
                                               existing repairs of horizontal stabilizer de-           2017–0144, dated August 9, 2017, for related           instructions for submitting comments.


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Document Created: 2018-04-17 02:53:10
Document Modified: 2018-04-17 02:53:10
CategoryRegulatory Information
CollectionFederal Register
sudoc ClassAE 2.7:
GS 4.107:
AE 2.106:
PublisherOffice of the Federal Register, National Archives and Records Administration
SectionProposed Rules
ActionNotice of proposed rulemaking (NPRM).
DatesWe must receive comments on this proposed AD by June 1, 2018.
ContactShahram Daneshmandi, Aerospace Engineer, International Section, Transport Standards Branch, FAA, 2200 South 216th St., Des Moines, WA 98198; telephone and fax: 206-231-3220.
FR Citation83 FR 16792 
RIN Number2120-AA64
CFR AssociatedAir Transportation; Aircraft; Aviation Safety; Incorporation by Reference and Safety

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