83 FR 22417 - Airworthiness Directives; The Boeing Company Airplanes
DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION
Federal Aviation Administration Federal Register Volume 83, Issue 94 (May 15, 2018)
Federal Aviation Administration
Federal Register Volume 83, Issue 94 (May 15, 2018)
| Page Range | 22417-22420 | |
| FR Document | 2018-10209 |
[Federal Register Volume 83, Number 94 (Tuesday, May 15, 2018)] [Proposed Rules] [Pages 22417-22420] From the Federal Register Online [www.thefederalregister.org] [FR Doc No: 2018-10209] ----------------------------------------------------------------------- DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION Federal Aviation Administration 14 CFR Part 39 [Docket No. FAA-2018-0408; Product Identifier 2017-NM-146-AD] RIN 2120-AA64 Airworthiness Directives; The Boeing Company Airplanes AGENCY: Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), DOT. ACTION: Notice of proposed rulemaking (NPRM). ----------------------------------------------------------------------- SUMMARY: We propose to supersede Airworthiness Directive (AD) 2016-13- 16, which applies to all The Boeing Company Model 737-600, -700, -700C, -800, -900, and -900ER series airplanes. AD 2016-13-16 requires an inspection or records check to determine if affected horizontal stabilizers are installed, related investigative actions, and, for affected horizontal stabilizers, repetitive inspections for any crack of the horizontal stabilizer rear spar upper chord, and corrective action if necessary. Since we issued AD 2016-13-16, we have determined that clarification of inspection areas and serial number information of the horizontal stabilizer is necessary. Therefore, this proposed AD would retain the requirements of AD 2016-13-16, with revised service information that clarifies the inspection areas and serial number information of the horizontal stabilizer. We are proposing this AD to address the unsafe condition on these products. DATES: We must receive comments on this proposed AD by June 29, 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 Boeing Commercial Airplanes, Attention: Contractual & Data Services (C&DS), 2600 Westminster Blvd., MC 110-SK57, Seal Beach, CA 90740-5600; telephone 562-797-1717; internet https://www.myboeingfleet.com. You may view this service information at the FAA, Transport Standards Branch, 2200 South 216th St., Des Moines, WA. For information on the availability of this material at the FAA, call 206-231-3195. It is also available on the internet at http://www.regulations.gov by searching for and locating Docket No. FAA-2018-0408. 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- 0408; 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 NPRM, the regulatory evaluation, any comments received, and other information. The street address for the Docket Office (phone: 800-647-5527) is in the ADDRESSES section. Comments will be available in the AD docket shortly after receipt. FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Lu Lu, Aerospace Engineer, Airframe Section, FAA, Seattle ACO Branch, 2200 South 216th St., Des Moines, WA 98198; phone and fax: 206-231-3525; email: [email protected]. 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-2018-0408; Product Identifier 2017-NM-146-AD'' at the beginning of your comments. We specifically invite comments on the overall regulatory, economic, environmental, and energy aspects of this NPRM. We will consider all comments received by the closing date and may amend this NPRM because of 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. [[Page 22418]] Discussion We issued AD 2016-13-16, Amendment 39-18581 (81 FR 44503, July 8, 2016) (``AD 2016-13-16''), for all The Boeing Company Model 737-600, - 700, -700C, -800, -900, and -900ER series airplanes. AD 2016-13-16 requires an identification plate inspection or records check to determine if affected horizontal stabilizers are installed, related investigative actions, and for affected horizontal stabilizers, repetitive inspections for any crack of the horizontal stabilizer rear spar upper chord, and corrective action if necessary. AD 2016-13-16 resulted from reports of a manufacturing oversight, in which a supplier omitted the required protective finish on certain bushings installed in the rear spar upper chord on horizontal stabilizers, which could lead to galvanic corrosion and consequent cracking of the rear spar upper chord. We issued AD 2016-13-16 to address cracking of the rear spar upper chord, which can result in the failure of the upper chord, consequent departure of the horizontal stabilizer from the airplane, and loss of control of the airplane. Actions Since AD 2016-13-16 Was Issued Since we issued AD 2016-13-16, it has been determined that clarification of inspection areas and serial number information of the horizontal stabilizer is necessary. Therefore, the service information has been revised to clarify the inspection areas for cracking and serial number information of the horizontal stabilizer. Related Service Information Under 1 CFR Part 51 We reviewed Boeing Alert Service Bulletin 737-55A1097, Revision 1, dated September 20, 2017. This service information describes procedures for an identification plate inspection or records check to determine whether affected horizontal stabilizers are installed, related investigative actions, and for affected horizontal stabilizers, repetitive high frequency eddy current (HFEC) inspections for any crack of the horizontal stabilizer rear spar upper chord, and corrective action. This service information is reasonably available because the interested parties have access to it through their normal course of business or by the means identified in the ADDRESSES section. FAA's Determination We are proposing this AD because we evaluated all the relevant information and determined the unsafe condition described previously is likely to exist or develop in other products of the same type design. Proposed AD Requirements Although this proposed AD does not explicitly restate the requirements of AD 2016-13-16, this proposed AD would retain all requirements of AD 2016-13-16. Those requirements are referenced in the service information identified previously, which, in turn, is referenced in paragraph (g) of this proposed AD. This proposed AD would clarify the inspection areas and serial number information of the horizontal stabilizer. This proposed AD would also require accomplishment of the actions identified as ``RC'' (required for compliance) in the Accomplishment Instructions of Boeing Alert Service Bulletin 737-55A1097, Revision 1, dated September 20, 2017, described previously. For information on the procedures and compliance times, see this service information at http://www.regulations.gov by searching for and locating Docket No. FAA-2018-0408. Costs of Compliance We estimate that this proposed AD affects 1,748 airplanes of U.S. registry. We estimate the following costs to comply with this proposed AD: Estimated Costs ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Cost per Cost on U.S. Action Labor cost Parts cost product operators ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Inspection or records check to 1 work-hour x $85 per $0 $85 $148,580 determine the serial number of the hour = $85. horizontal stabilizer. HFEC inspection....................... 6 work-hour x $85 per 0 510 891,480 hour = $510. ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- We have received no definitive data that would enable us to provide cost estimates for the on-condition actions specified in this proposed AD. According to the manufacturer, all of the costs of this proposed AD may be covered under warranty, thereby reducing the cost impact on affected individuals. We do not control warranty coverage for affected individuals. As a result, we have included all available costs in our cost estimate. Authority for This Rulemaking Title 49 of the United States Code specifies the FAA's authority to issue rules on aviation safety. Subtitle I, Section 106, describes the authority of the FAA Administrator. Subtitle VII, Aviation Programs, describes in more detail the scope of the Agency's authority. We are issuing this rulemaking under the authority described in Subtitle VII, Part A, Subpart III, Section 44701, ``General requirements.'' Under that section, Congress charges the FAA with promoting safe flight of civil aircraft in air commerce by prescribing regulations for practices, methods, and procedures the Administrator finds necessary for safety in air commerce. This regulation is within the scope of that authority because it addresses an unsafe condition that is likely to exist or develop on products identified in this rulemaking action. This proposed 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 have 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 that the proposed regulation: (1) Is not a ``significant regulatory action'' under Executive Order 12866, [[Page 22419]] (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) 2016-13-16, Amendment 39-18581 (81 FR 44503, July 8, 2016), and adding the following new AD: The Boeing Company: Docket No. FAA-2018-0408; Product Identifier 2017-NM-146-AD. (a) Comments Due Date The FAA must receive comments on this AD action by June 29, 2018. (b) Affected ADs This AD replaces AD 2016-13-16, Amendment 39-18581 (81 FR 44503, July 8, 2016) (``AD 2016-13-16''). (c) Applicability This AD applies to all The Boeing Company Model 737-600, -700, - 700C, -800, -900, and 900ER series airplanes, certificated in any category. (d) Subject Air Transport Association (ATA) of America Code 55, Stabilizers. (e) Unsafe Condition This AD was prompted by reports of a manufacturing oversight, in which a supplier omitted the required protective finish on certain bushings installed in the rear spar upper chord on horizontal stabilizers, which could lead to galvanic corrosion and consequent cracking of the rear spar upper chord. We are issuing this AD to address cracking of the rear spar upper chord, which could result in the failure of the upper chord, consequent departure of the horizontal stabilizer from the airplane, and loss of control of the airplane. (f) Compliance Comply with this AD within the compliance times specified, unless already done. (g) Required Actions Except as required by paragraph (h) of this AD: At the applicable times specified in paragraph 1.E., ``Compliance,'' of Boeing Alert Service Bulletin 737-55A1097, Revision 1, dated September 20, 2017, do all applicable actions identified as ``RC'' (required for compliance) in, and in accordance with, the Accomplishment Instructions of Boeing Alert Service Bulletin 737- 55A1097, Revision 1, dated September 20, 2017. (h) Exceptions to Service Information (1) For purposes of determining compliance with the requirements of this AD: Where Boeing Alert Service Bulletin 737-55A1097, Revision 1, dated September 20, 2017, uses the phrase ``the Revision 1 date of this service bulletin,'' this AD requires using ``the effective date of this AD.'' (2) Where Boeing Alert Service Bulletin 737-55A1097, Revision 1, dated September 20, 2017, specifies contacting Boeing, and specifies that action as RC: This AD requires repair using a method approved in accordance with the procedures specified in paragraph (k) of this AD. (i) Parts Installation Limitations As of the effective date of this AD, no person may install a horizontal stabilizer on any airplane, except as specified in paragraphs (i)(1) or (i)(2) of this AD. (1) A horizontal stabilizer may be installed if the part is inspected in accordance with ``Part 2: Horizontal Stabilizer Identification Plate Inspection'' of the Accomplishments Instructions of Boeing Alert Service Bulletin 737-55A1097, Revision 1, dated September 20, 2017, and no affected serial number is found. (2) A horizontal stabilizer may be installed if the part is inspected in accordance with ``Part 2: Horizontal Stabilizer Identification Plate Inspection'' of the Accomplishments Instructions of Boeing Alert Service Bulletin 737-55A1097, Revision 1, dated September 20, 2017, and an affected serial number is found, provided that the actions specified in paragraphs (i)(2)(i) and (i)(2)(ii) of this AD are done, as applicable. (i) Initial and repetitive high frequency eddy current (HFEC) inspections, which are part of the required actions specified in paragraph (g) of this AD, are completed within the compliance times specified in paragraph (g) of this AD. (ii) All applicable corrective actions, which are part of the required actions specified in paragraph (g) of this AD, are done within the compliance times specified in paragraph (g) of this AD. (j) Credit for Previous Actions For Groups 1 and 2, Configuration 1 airplanes, as identified in Boeing Alert Service Bulletin 737-55A1097, Revision 1, dated September 20, 2017: This paragraph provides credit for the actions specified in paragraph (g) of this AD, if those actions were performed before the effective date of this AD using Boeing Alert Service Bulletin 737-55A1097, dated July 1, 2015. (k) Alternative Methods of Compliance (AMOCs) (1) The Manager, Seattle ACO Branch, FAA, has the authority to approve AMOCs for this AD, if requested using the procedures found in 14 CFR 39.19. In accordance with 14 CFR 39.19, send your request to your principal inspector or local Flight Standards District Office, as appropriate. If sending information directly to the manager of the certification office, send it to the attention of the person identified in paragraph (l)(1) of this AD. Information may be emailed to: [email protected]. (2) Before using any approved AMOC, notify your appropriate principal inspector, or lacking a principal inspector, the manager of the local flight standards district office/certificate holding district office. (3) An AMOC that provides an acceptable level of safety may be used for any repair, modification, or alteration required by this AD if it is approved by the Boeing Commercial Airplanes Organization Designation Authorization (ODA) that has been authorized by the Manager, Seattle ACO Branch, to make those findings. To be approved, the repair method, modification deviation, or alteration deviation must meet the certification basis of the airplane, and the approval must specifically refer to this AD. (4) AMOCs approved previously for AD 2016-13-16 are approved as AMOCs for the corresponding provisions of Boeing Alert Service Bulletin 737-55A1097, Revision 1, dated September 20, 2017, that are required by paragraph (g) of this AD. (5) Except as required by paragraph (h)(2) of this AD: For service information that contains steps that are labeled as Required for Compliance (RC), the provisions of paragraphs (k)(5)(i) and (k)(5)(ii) of this AD apply. (i) The steps labeled as RC, including substeps under an RC step and any figures identified in an RC step, must be done to comply with the AD. If a step or substep is labeled ``RC Exempt,'' then the RC requirement is removed from that step or substep. An AMOC is required for any deviations to RC steps, including substeps and identified figures. (ii) Steps not labeled as RC may be deviated from using accepted methods in accordance with the operator's maintenance or inspection program without obtaining approval of an AMOC, provided the RC steps, including substeps and identified figures, can still be done as specified, and the airplane can be put back in an airworthy condition. (l) Related Information (1) For more information about this AD, contact Lu Lu, Aerospace Engineer, Airframe Section, FAA, Seattle ACO Branch, 2200 South 216th St., Des Moines, WA 98198; phone and fax: 206-231-3525; email: [email protected]. (2) For service information identified in this AD, contact Boeing Commercial Airplanes, Attention: Contractual & Data Services (C&DS), 2600 Westminster Blvd., [[Page 22420]] MC 110-SK57, Seal Beach, CA 90740-5600; telephone 562-797-1717; internet https://www.myboeingfleet.com. You may view this service information at the FAA, Transport Standards Branch, 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 May 7, 2018. Michael Kaszycki, Acting Director, System Oversight Division, Aircraft Certification Service. [FR Doc. 2018-10209 Filed 5-14-18; 8:45 am] BILLING CODE 4910-13-P
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(l) Other FAA AD Provisions Issued in Des Moines, Washington, on May • Hand Delivery: Deliver to Mail
The following provisions also apply to this 7, 2018. address above between 9 a.m. and 5
AD: Michael Kaszycki, p.m., Monday through Friday, except
(1) Alternative Methods of Compliance Acting Director, System Oversight Division, Federal holidays.
(AMOCs): The Manager, International Aircraft Certification Service. For service information identified in
Section, Transport Standards Branch, FAA, this NPRM, contact Boeing Commercial
[FR Doc. 2018–10211 Filed 5–14–18; 8:45 am]
has the authority to approve AMOCs for this
AD, if requested using the procedures found BILLING CODE 4910–13–P Airplanes, Attention: Contractual & Data
in 14 CFR 39.19. In accordance with 14 CFR Services (C&DS), 2600 Westminster
39.19, send your request to your principal Blvd., MC 110–SK57, Seal Beach, CA
inspector or local Flight Standards District DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION 90740–5600; telephone 562–797–1717;
Office, as appropriate. If sending information internet https://www.myboeingfleet.
directly to the International Section, send it Federal Aviation Administration com. You may view this service
to the attention of the person identified in information at the FAA, Transport
paragraph (m)(2) of this AD. Information may 14 CFR Part 39
be emailed to: 9-ANM-116-AMOC-
Standards Branch, 2200 South 216th St.,
REQUESTS@faa.gov. Before using any [Docket No. FAA–2018–0408; Product Des Moines, WA. For information on the
approved AMOC, notify your appropriate Identifier 2017–NM–146–AD] availability of this material at the FAA,
principal inspector, or lacking a principal call 206–231–3195. It is also available
RIN 2120–AA64
inspector, the manager of the local flight on the internet at http://
standards district office/certificate holding www.regulations.gov by searching for
district office. Airworthiness Directives; The Boeing
Company Airplanes and locating Docket No. FAA–2018–
(2) Contacting the Manufacturer: For any
requirement in this AD to obtain corrective
0408.
actions from a manufacturer, the action must
AGENCY: Federal Aviation
Administration (FAA), DOT. Examining the AD Docket
be accomplished using a method approved
by the Manager, International Section, ACTION: Notice of proposed rulemaking You may examine the AD docket on
Transport Standards Branch, FAA; or the (NPRM). the internet at http://
European Aviation Safety Agency (EASA); or www.regulations.gov by searching for
Airbus’s EASA Design Organization SUMMARY: We propose to supersede and locating Docket No. FAA–2018–
Approval (DOA). If approved by the DOA, Airworthiness Directive (AD) 2016–13– 0408; or in person at the Docket
the approval must include the DOA- 16, which applies to all The Boeing Management Facility between 9 a.m.
authorized signature. Company Model 737–600, –700, –700C,
(3) Required for Compliance (RC): Except and 5 p.m., Monday through Friday,
as required by paragraph (j) of this AD: If any –800, –900, and –900ER series except Federal holidays. The AD docket
service information contains procedures or airplanes. AD 2016–13–16 requires an contains this NPRM, the regulatory
tests that are identified as RC, those inspection or records check to evaluation, any comments received, and
procedures and tests must be done to comply determine if affected horizontal other information. The street address for
with this AD; any procedures or tests that are stabilizers are installed, related the Docket Office (phone: 800–647–
not identified as RC are recommended. Those investigative actions, and, for affected 5527) is in the ADDRESSES section.
procedures and tests that are not identified horizontal stabilizers, repetitive
as RC may be deviated from using accepted Comments will be available in the AD
methods in accordance with the operator’s
inspections for any crack of the docket shortly after receipt.
maintenance or inspection program without horizontal stabilizer rear spar upper FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Lu
obtaining approval of an AMOC, provided chord, and corrective action if Lu, Aerospace Engineer, Airframe
the procedures and tests identified as RC can necessary. Since we issued AD 2016– Section, FAA, Seattle ACO Branch, 2200
be done and the airplane can be put back in 13–16, we have determined that South 216th St., Des Moines, WA 98198;
an airworthy condition. Any substitutions or clarification of inspection areas and
changes to procedures or tests identified as phone and fax: 206–231–3525; email:
serial number information of the lu.lu@faa.gov.
RC require approval of an AMOC.
horizontal stabilizer is necessary.
SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION:
(m) Related Information Therefore, this proposed AD would
(1) Refer to Mandatory Continuing retain the requirements of AD 2016–13– Comments Invited
Airworthiness Information (MCAI) EASA AD 16, with revised service information that
2018–0031, dated January 31, 2018, for
We invite you to send any written
clarifies the inspection areas and serial
related information. This MCAI may be relevant data, views, or arguments about
number information of the horizontal
found in the AD docket on the internet at this proposal. Send your comments to
stabilizer. We are proposing this AD to
http://www.regulations.gov by searching for an address listed under the ADDRESSES
address the unsafe condition on these
and locating Docket No. FAA–2018–0410. section. Include ‘‘Docket No. FAA–
(2) For more information about this AD, products.
2018–0408; Product Identifier 2017–
contact Kathleen Arrigotti, Aerospace DATES: We must receive comments on NM–146–AD’’ at the beginning of your
Engineer, International Section, Transport this proposed AD by June 29, 2018. comments. We specifically invite
Standards Branch, FAA, 2200 South 216th
St., Des Moines, WA 98198; telephone and ADDRESSES: You may send comments, comments on the overall regulatory,
fax 206–231–3218. using the procedures found in 14 CFR economic, environmental, and energy
(3) For service information identified in 11.43 and 11.45, by any of the following aspects of this NPRM. We will consider
this AD, contact Airbus SAS, Airworthiness methods: all comments received by the closing
Office—EAL, 1 Rond Point Maurice Bellonte, • Federal eRulemaking Portal: Go to date and may amend this NPRM
daltland on DSKBBV9HB2PROD with PROPOSALS
31707 Blagnac Cedex, France; telephone +33 http://www.regulations.gov. Follow the because of those comments.
5 61 93 36 96; fax +33 5 61 93 45 80; email instructions for submitting comments. We will post all comments we
continued-airworthiness.a350@airbus.com; • Fax: 202–493–2251. receive, without change, to http://
internet http://www.airbus.com. You may
view this service information at the FAA,
• Mail: U.S. Department of www.regulations.gov, including any
Transport Standards Branch, 2200 South Transportation, Docket Operations, M– personal information you provide. We
216th St., Des Moines, WA. For information 30, West Building Ground Floor, Room will also post a report summarizing each
on the availability of this material at the W12–140, 1200 New Jersey Avenue SE, substantive verbal contact we receive
FAA, call 206–231–3195. Washington, DC 20590. about this proposed AD.
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(2) Is not a ‘‘significant rule’’ under (f) Compliance performed before the effective date of this AD
the DOT Regulatory Policies and Comply with this AD within the using Boeing Alert Service Bulletin 737–
Procedures (44 FR 11034, February 26, compliance times specified, unless already 55A1097, dated July 1, 2015.
1979), done. (k) Alternative Methods of Compliance
(3) Will not affect intrastate aviation (g) Required Actions (AMOCs)
in Alaska, and (1) The Manager, Seattle ACO Branch,
(4) Will not have a significant Except as required by paragraph (h) of this
AD: At the applicable times specified in FAA, has the authority to approve AMOCs
economic impact, positive or negative, paragraph 1.E., ‘‘Compliance,’’ of Boeing for this AD, if requested using the procedures
on a substantial number of small entities Alert Service Bulletin 737–55A1097, found in 14 CFR 39.19. In accordance with
under the criteria of the Regulatory Revision 1, dated September 20, 2017, do all 14 CFR 39.19, send your request to your
Flexibility Act. applicable actions identified as ‘‘RC’’ principal inspector or local Flight Standards
(required for compliance) in, and in District Office, as appropriate. If sending
List of Subjects in 14 CFR Part 39 accordance with, the Accomplishment information directly to the manager of the
Air transportation, Aircraft, Aviation Instructions of Boeing Alert Service Bulletin certification office, send it to the attention of
safety, Incorporation by reference, 737–55A1097, Revision 1, dated September the person identified in paragraph (l)(1) of
20, 2017. this AD. Information may be emailed to: 9-
Safety. ANM-Seattle-ACO-AMOC-Requests@faa.gov.
The Proposed Amendment (h) Exceptions to Service Information (2) Before using any approved AMOC,
(1) For purposes of determining notify your appropriate principal inspector,
Accordingly, under the authority compliance with the requirements of this AD: or lacking a principal inspector, the manager
delegated to me by the Administrator, Where Boeing Alert Service Bulletin 737– of the local flight standards district office/
the FAA proposes to amend 14 CFR part 55A1097, Revision 1, dated September 20, certificate holding district office.
39 as follows: 2017, uses the phrase ‘‘the Revision 1 date of (3) An AMOC that provides an acceptable
this service bulletin,’’ this AD requires using level of safety may be used for any repair,
PART 39—AIRWORTHINESS ‘‘the effective date of this AD.’’ modification, or alteration required by this
DIRECTIVES (2) Where Boeing Alert Service Bulletin AD if it is approved by the Boeing
737–55A1097, Revision 1, dated September Commercial Airplanes Organization
■ 1. The authority citation for part 39 20, 2017, specifies contacting Boeing, and Designation Authorization (ODA) that has
continues to read as follows: specifies that action as RC: This AD requires been authorized by the Manager, Seattle ACO
repair using a method approved in Branch, to make those findings. To be
Authority: 49 U.S.C. 106(g), 40113, 44701.
accordance with the procedures specified in approved, the repair method, modification
§ 39.13 [Amended] paragraph (k) of this AD. deviation, or alteration deviation must meet
the certification basis of the airplane, and the
■ 2. The FAA amends § 39.13 by (i) Parts Installation Limitations approval must specifically refer to this AD.
removing Airworthiness Directive (AD) As of the effective date of this AD, no (4) AMOCs approved previously for AD
2016–13–16, Amendment 39–18581 (81 person may install a horizontal stabilizer on 2016–13–16 are approved as AMOCs for the
FR 44503, July 8, 2016), and adding the any airplane, except as specified in corresponding provisions of Boeing Alert
following new AD: paragraphs (i)(1) or (i)(2) of this AD. Service Bulletin 737–55A1097, Revision 1,
(1) A horizontal stabilizer may be installed dated September 20, 2017, that are required
The Boeing Company: Docket No. FAA–
if the part is inspected in accordance with by paragraph (g) of this AD.
2018–0408; Product Identifier 2017–
‘‘Part 2: Horizontal Stabilizer Identification (5) Except as required by paragraph (h)(2)
NM–146–AD.
Plate Inspection’’ of the Accomplishments of this AD: For service information that
(a) Comments Due Date Instructions of Boeing Alert Service Bulletin contains steps that are labeled as Required
The FAA must receive comments on this 737–55A1097, Revision 1, dated September for Compliance (RC), the provisions of
AD action by June 29, 2018. 20, 2017, and no affected serial number is paragraphs (k)(5)(i) and (k)(5)(ii) of this AD
found. apply.
(b) Affected ADs (2) A horizontal stabilizer may be installed (i) The steps labeled as RC, including
This AD replaces AD 2016–13–16, if the part is inspected in accordance with substeps under an RC step and any figures
Amendment 39–18581 (81 FR 44503, July 8, ‘‘Part 2: Horizontal Stabilizer Identification identified in an RC step, must be done to
2016) (‘‘AD 2016–13–16’’). Plate Inspection’’ of the Accomplishments comply with the AD. If a step or substep is
Instructions of Boeing Alert Service Bulletin labeled ‘‘RC Exempt,’’ then the RC
(c) Applicability 737–55A1097, Revision 1, dated September requirement is removed from that step or
This AD applies to all The Boeing 20, 2017, and an affected serial number is substep. An AMOC is required for any
Company Model 737–600, –700, –700C, found, provided that the actions specified in deviations to RC steps, including substeps
–800, –900, and 900ER series airplanes, paragraphs (i)(2)(i) and (i)(2)(ii) of this AD are and identified figures.
certificated in any category. done, as applicable. (ii) Steps not labeled as RC may be
(i) Initial and repetitive high frequency deviated from using accepted methods in
(d) Subject eddy current (HFEC) inspections, which are accordance with the operator’s maintenance
Air Transport Association (ATA) of part of the required actions specified in or inspection program without obtaining
America Code 55, Stabilizers. paragraph (g) of this AD, are completed approval of an AMOC, provided the RC steps,
within the compliance times specified in including substeps and identified figures, can
(e) Unsafe Condition paragraph (g) of this AD. still be done as specified, and the airplane
This AD was prompted by reports of a (ii) All applicable corrective actions, which can be put back in an airworthy condition.
manufacturing oversight, in which a supplier are part of the required actions specified in
omitted the required protective finish on (l) Related Information
paragraph (g) of this AD, are done within the
certain bushings installed in the rear spar compliance times specified in paragraph (g) (1) For more information about this AD,
daltland on DSKBBV9HB2PROD with PROPOSALS
upper chord on horizontal stabilizers, which of this AD. contact Lu Lu, Aerospace Engineer, Airframe
could lead to galvanic corrosion and Section, FAA, Seattle ACO Branch, 2200
consequent cracking of the rear spar upper (j) Credit for Previous Actions South 216th St., Des Moines, WA 98198;
chord. We are issuing this AD to address For Groups 1 and 2, Configuration 1 phone and fax: 206–231–3525; email: lu.lu@
cracking of the rear spar upper chord, which airplanes, as identified in Boeing Alert faa.gov.
could result in the failure of the upper chord, Service Bulletin 737–55A1097, Revision 1, (2) For service information identified in
consequent departure of the horizontal dated September 20, 2017: This paragraph this AD, contact Boeing Commercial
stabilizer from the airplane, and loss of provides credit for the actions specified in Airplanes, Attention: Contractual & Data
control of the airplane. paragraph (g) of this AD, if those actions were Services (C&DS), 2600 Westminster Blvd.,
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![22420 Federal Register / Vol. 83, No. 94 / Tuesday, May 15, 2018 / Proposed Rules
MC 110–SK57, Seal Beach, CA 90740–5600; • Federal eRulemaking Portal: Go to date and may amend this NPRM
telephone 562–797–1717; internet https:// http://www.regulations.gov. Follow the because of those comments.
www.myboeingfleet.com. You may view this instructions for submitting comments. We will post all comments we
service information at the FAA, Transport • Fax: 202–493–2251. receive, without change, to http://
Standards Branch, 2200 South 216th St., Des
Moines, WA. For information on the
• Mail: U.S. Department of www.regulations.gov, including any
availability of this material at the FAA, call Transportation, Docket Operations, M– personal information you provide. We
206–231–3195. 30, West Building Ground Floor, Room will also post a report summarizing each
W12–140, 1200 New Jersey Avenue SE, substantive verbal contact we receive
Issued in Des Moines, Washington, on May
Washington, DC 20590. about this proposed AD.
7, 2018.
• Hand Delivery: Deliver to Mail Discussion
Michael Kaszycki,
address above between 9 a.m. and 5
Acting Director, System Oversight Division, p.m., Monday through Friday, except We issued AD 2017–16–05,
Aircraft Certification Service. Amendment 39–18982 (82 FR 39344,
Federal holidays.
[FR Doc. 2018–10209 Filed 5–14–18; 8:45 am] August 18, 2017) (‘‘AD 2017–16–05’’),
For service information identified in
BILLING CODE 4910–13–P this NPRM, contact Boeing Commercial for certain The Boeing Company Model
Airplanes, Attention: Contractual & Data 737–600, –700, –700C, –800, –900, and
Services (C&DS), 2600 Westminster –900ER series airplanes. AD 2017–16–
DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION 05 requires a one-time detailed visual
Blvd., MC 110–SK57, Seal Beach, CA
90740–5600; telephone: 562–797–1717; inspection for discrepancies in the
Federal Aviation Administration Krueger flap bullnose attachment
internet: https://www.myboeingfleet.
com. You may view this service hardware, and related investigative and
14 CFR Part 39 corrective actions, if necessary. AD
information at the FAA, Transport
[Docket No. FAA–2018–0409; Product Standards Branch, 2200 South 216th St., 2017–16–05 resulted from a report of a
Identifier 2017–NM–120–AD] Des Moines, WA. For information on the Krueger flap bullnose departing an
availability of this material at the FAA, airplane during taxi, which caused
RIN 2120–AA64 damage to the wing structure and thrust
call 206–231–3195. It is also available
on the internet at http:// reverser. We issued AD 2017–16–05 to
Airworthiness Directives; The Boeing
www.regulations.gov by searching for detect and correct missing Krueger flap
Company Airplanes
and locating Docket No. FAA–2018– bullnose hardware. Such missing
AGENCY: Federal Aviation 0409. hardware could result in the Krueger
Administration (FAA), DOT. flap bullnose departing the airplane
Examining the AD Docket during flight, which could damage
ACTION: Notice of proposed rulemaking
(NPRM). You may examine the AD docket on empennage structure and lead to the
the internet at http:// inability to maintain continued safe
SUMMARY: We propose to supersede www.regulations.gov by searching for flight and landing.
Airworthiness Directive (AD) 2017–16– and locating Docket No. FAA–2018– Actions Since AD 2017–16–05 Was
05, which applies to certain The Boeing 0409; or in person at Docket Operations Issued
Company Model 737–600, –700, –700C, between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m., Monday
–800, –900, and –900ER series through Friday, except Federal holidays. Since we issued AD 2017–16–05, we
airplanes. AD 2017–16–05 requires a The AD docket contains this NPRM, the have received a report of a missing no.
one-time detailed visual inspection for regulatory evaluation, any comments 2 Krueger flap bullnose hinge bolt from
discrepancies in the Krueger flap received, and other information. The an airplane that was not included in the
bullnose attachment hardware, and street address for Docket Operations applicability of AD 2017–16–05.
related investigative and corrective (phone: 800–647–5527) is in the Related Service Information Under 1
actions if necessary. Since we issued AD ADDRESSES section. Comments will be CFR Part 51
2017–16–05, we received a report of a available in the AD docket shortly after
missing no. 2 Krueger flap bullnose We reviewed Boeing Alert Service
receipt.
hinge bolt from an airplane that was not Bulletin 737–57A1327, Revision 2,
FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: dated July 25, 2017 (‘‘BASB 737–
included in the applicability of AD Alan Pohl, Aerospace Engineer,
2017–16–05. This proposed AD would 57A1327, R2’’). This service information
Airframe Section, FAA, Seattle ACO describes procedures for a one-time
add airplanes and an additional Branch, 2200 South 216th St., Des
inspection to determine if any Krueger detailed visual inspection for
Moines, WA 98198; phone and fax: 206– discrepancies in the Krueger flap
flap no. 1, 2, 3, or 4 has been replaced, 231–3527; email: alan.pohl@faa.gov.
and related investigative and corrective bullnose attachment hardware, and
SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: related investigative and corrective
actions. Since this is a rotable parts
issue, the applicability of this AD has Comments Invited actions; and an inspection to determine
been expanded beyond the airplanes if any Krueger flap no. 1, 2, 3, or 4 has
We invite you to send any written been replaced, and related investigative
listed in the related service bulletin to relevant data, views, or arguments about
include all airplanes on which a and corrective actions.
this proposal. Send your comments to This service information is reasonably
Krueger flap bullnose may be installed. an address listed under the ADDRESSES
We are proposing this AD to address the available because the interested parties
daltland on DSKBBV9HB2PROD with PROPOSALS
section. Include ‘‘Docket No. FAA– have access to it through their normal
unsafe condition on these products. 2018–0409; Product Identifier 2017– course of business or by the means
DATES: We must receive comments on NM–120–AD’’ at the beginning of your identified in the ADDRESSES section.
this proposed AD by June 29, 2018. comments. We specifically invite
ADDRESSES: You may send comments, comments on the overall regulatory, FAA’s Determination
using the procedures found in 14 CFR economic, environmental, and energy We are proposing this AD because we
11.43 and 11.45, by any of the following aspects of this NPRM. We will consider evaluated all the relevant information
methods: all comments received by the closing and determined the unsafe condition
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Document Created: 2018-05-15 00:32:56
Document Modified: 2018-05-15 00:32:56
| Category | Regulatory Information | |
| Collection | Federal Register | |
| sudoc Class | AE 2.7: GS 4.107: AE 2.106: | |
| Publisher | Office of the Federal Register, National Archives and Records Administration | |
| Section | Proposed Rules | |
| Action | Notice of proposed rulemaking (NPRM). | |
| Dates | We must receive comments on this proposed AD by June 29, 2018. | |
| Contact | Lu Lu, Aerospace Engineer, Airframe Section, FAA, Seattle ACO Branch, 2200 South 216th St., Des Moines, WA 98198; phone and fax: 206-231-3525; email: [email protected] | |
| FR Citation | 83 FR 22417 | |
| RIN Number | 2120-AA64 | |
| CFR Associated | Air Transportation; Aircraft; Aviation Safety; Incorporation by Reference and Safety |
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