83 FR 44510 - Airworthiness Directives; Airbus SAS Airplanes
DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION
Federal Aviation Administration Federal Register Volume 83, Issue 170 (August 31, 2018)
Federal Aviation Administration
Federal Register Volume 83, Issue 170 (August 31, 2018)
| Page Range | 44510-44514 | |
| FR Document | 2018-18814 |
[Federal Register Volume 83, Number 170 (Friday, August 31, 2018)] [Proposed Rules] [Pages 44510-44514] From the Federal Register Online [www.thefederalregister.org] [FR Doc No: 2018-18814] ----------------------------------------------------------------------- DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION Federal Aviation Administration 14 CFR Part 39 [Docket No. FAA-2018-0788; Product Identifier 2018-NM-004-AD] RIN 2120-AA64 Airworthiness Directives; Airbus SAS Airplanes AGENCY: Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), DOT. ACTION: Notice of proposed rulemaking (NPRM). ----------------------------------------------------------------------- SUMMARY: We propose to adopt a new airworthiness directive (AD) for certain Airbus SAS Model A330-200, -200F, and -300 series airplanes. This proposed AD was prompted by a revision of the airworthiness limitations section (ALS), which provides new and more restrictive maintenance requirements and airworthiness limitations for airplane structures and systems. This proposed AD would require revising the maintenance or inspection program to incorporate new maintenance requirements and airworthiness limitations. We are proposing this AD to address the unsafe condition on these products. DATES: We must receive comments on this proposed AD by October 15, 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. [[Page 44511]] Hand Delivery: Deliver to Mail address above between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m., Monday through Friday, except Federal holidays. For service information identified in this NPRM, contact Airbus SAS, Airworthiness Office--EAL, Rond-Point Emile Dewoitine No: 2, 31700 Blagnac Cedex, France; phone: +33 5 61 93 36 96; fax: +33 5 61 93 45 80; email: airworthiness.A330-A340@airbus.com; internet: http://www.airbus.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. 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- 0788; or in person at Docket Operations 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 Docket Operations (phone: 800-647- 5527) is in the ADDRESSES section. Comments will be available in the AD docket shortly after receipt. FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Vladimir Ulyanov, Aerospace Engineer, International Section, Transport Standards Branch, FAA, 2200 South 216th St., Des Moines, WA 98198; phone and fax: 206-231-3229. 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-2018-0788; Product Identifier 2018-NM-004-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 NPRM. Discussion The European Aviation Safety Agency (EASA), which is the Technical Agent for the Member States of the European Union, has issued EASA AD 2017-0228, dated November 21, 2017 (referred to after this as the Mandatory Continuing Airworthiness Information, or ``the MCAI''), to correct an unsafe condition for all Airbus SAS Model A330 and A340 series airplanes. The MCAI states: The airworthiness limitations are currently defined and published in the Airbus A330 and A340 Airworthiness Limitations Section (ALS) documents. The airworthiness limitations applicable to the System Equipment Maintenance Requirements, which are approved by EASA, are specified in Airbus A330 and A340 ALS Part 4. Failure to comply with these instructions could result in an unsafe condition. EASA issued AD 2016-0011 [which corresponds to FAA AD 2017-05- 10, Amendment 39-18821 (82 FR 13379, March 13, 2017) (``AD 2017-05- 10'')] to require the actions as specified in Airbus A330 and A340 ALS Part 4 at Revision 05 and Revision 04, respectively. Since this [EASA] AD was issued, Airbus published Revision 06 and Revision 05, respectively, of Airbus A330 and A340 ALS Part 4, which introduce new and more restrictive maintenance requirements and/or airworthiness limitations. For the reason described above, this [EASA] AD retains the requirements of EASA AD 2016-0011, which is superseded, and requires accomplishment of the actions specified in Airbus A330 ALS Part 4 Revision 06, or A340 ALS Part 4 Revision 05, as applicable. The unsafe condition is reduced control of the airplane due to the failure of system components. 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- 0788. Relationship Between Proposed AD and AD 2017-05-10 This NPRM would not propose to supersede AD 2017-05-10. Rather, we have determined that a stand-alone AD would be more appropriate to address the changes in the MCAI. This NPRM would require revising the maintenance or inspection program to incorporate new maintenance requirements and airworthiness limitations. Accomplishment of the proposed actions would then terminate all of the requirements of AD 2017-05-10. Related Service Information Under 1 CFR Part 51 Airbus SAS has issued A330 Airworthiness Limitations Section (ALS) Part 4, System Equipment Maintenance Requirements (SEMR), Revision 06, dated September 18, 2017. This service information describes preventative maintenance requirements and associated airworthiness limitations applicable to aircraft systems susceptible to aging effects. 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 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 the relevant information and determined the unsafe condition described previously is likely to exist or develop on other products of the same type design. Proposed Requirements of This NPRM This proposed AD would require revising the maintenance or inspection program to incorporate new maintenance requirements and airworthiness limitations. Differences Between This Proposed AD and the MCAI or Service Information EASA AD 2017-0228, dated November 21, 2017, specifies that if there are findings from the ALS inspection tasks, corrective actions must be accomplished in accordance with Airbus SAS maintenance documentation. However, this proposed AD does not include that requirement. Operators of U.S.-registered airplanes are required by general airworthiness and operational regulations to perform maintenance using methods that are acceptable to the FAA. We consider those methods to be adequate to address any corrective actions necessitated by the findings of ALS inspections required by this proposed AD. This proposed AD does not include Model A340 series airplanes in the Applicability. AD 2014-23-17, Amendment 39-18033 (79 FR 71304, December 2, 2014), currently addresses the identified unsafe condition for Model A340 series airplanes. We have also added EASA AD 2017-0228, dated November 21, 2017, to the required airworthiness action list (RAAL) for Model A340 series airplanes. Airworthiness Limitations Based on Type Design The FAA recently became aware of an issue related to the applicability of ADs that require incorporation of an ALS [[Page 44512]] revision into an operator's maintenance or inspection program. Typically, when these types of ADs are issued by civil aviation authorities of other countries, they apply to all airplanes covered under an identified type certificate (TC). The corresponding FAA AD typically retains applicability to all of those airplanes. In addition, U.S. operators must operate their airplanes in an airworthy condition, in accordance with 14 CFR 91.7(a). Included in this obligation is the requirement to perform any maintenance or inspections specified in the ALS, and in accordance with the ALS as specified in 14 CFR 43.16 and 91.403(c), unless an alternative has been approved by the FAA. When a TC is issued for a type design, the specific ALS, including revisions, is a part of that type design, as specified in 14 CFR 21.31(c). The sum effect of these operational and maintenance requirements is an obligation to comply with the ALS defined in the type design referenced in the manufacturer's conformity statement. This obligation may introduce a conflict with an AD that requires a specific ALS revision if new airplanes are delivered with a later revision as part of their type design. To address this conflict, the FAA has approved alternative methods of compliance (AMOCs) that allow operators to incorporate the most recent ALS revision into their maintenance/inspection programs, in lieu of the ALS revision required by the AD. This eliminates the conflict and enables the operator to comply with both the AD and the type design. However, compliance with AMOCs is normally optional, and we recently became aware that some operators choose to retain the AD- mandated ALS revision in their fleet-wide maintenance/inspection programs, including those for new airplanes delivered with later ALS revisions, to help standardize the maintenance of the fleet. To ensure that operators comply with the applicable ALS revision for newly delivered airplanes containing a later revision than that specified in an AD, we plan to limit the applicability of ADs that mandate ALS revisions to those airplanes that are subject to an earlier revision of the ALS, either as part of the type design or as mandated by an earlier AD. This proposed AD therefore would apply to Airbus SAS airplanes identified in paragraph (c) of this proposed AD with an original certificate of airworthiness or original export certificate of airworthiness that was issued on or before the date of the ALS revision identified in this proposed AD. Operators of airplanes with an original certificate of airworthiness or original export certificate of airworthiness issued after that date must comply with the airworthiness limitations specified as part of the approved type design and referenced on the TC data sheet. Costs of Compliance We estimate that this proposed AD affects 104 airplanes of U.S. registry. We have determined that revising the maintenance or inspection program takes an average of 90 work-hours per operator, although we recognize that this number may vary from operator to operator. In the past, we have estimated that this action takes 1 work-hour per airplane. Since operators incorporate maintenance or inspection program changes for their affected fleet(s), we have determined that a per- operator estimate is more accurate than a per-airplane estimate. Therefore, we estimate the total cost per operator to be $7,650 (90 work-hours x $85 per work-hour). 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 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 adding the following new airworthiness directive (AD): Airbus SAS: Docket No. FAA-2018-0788; Product Identifier 2018-NM- 004-AD. (a) Comments Due Date We must receive comments by October 15, 2018. (b) Affected ADs This AD affects AD 2017-05-10, Amendment 39-18821 (82 FR 13379, March 13, 2017) (``AD 2017-05-10''). (c) Applicability This AD applies to Airbus SAS Model A330-201, A330-202, A330- 203, A330-223, A330-243, A330-223F, A330-243F, A330-301, A330-302, A330-303, A330-321, A330-322, A330-323, A330-341, A330-342, and A330-343 airplanes, certificated in any category, with an original certificate of airworthiness or original export certificate of airworthiness issued on or before September 18, 2017. [[Page 44513]] (d) Subject Air Transport Association (ATA) of America Code 05, Time Limits/ Maintenance Checks. (e) Reason This AD was prompted by a revision of the airworthiness limitations section (ALS), which provides new and more restrictive maintenance requirements and airworthiness limitations for airplane structures and systems. We are issuing this AD to prevent reduced airplane control due to the failure of system components. (f) Compliance Comply with this AD within the compliance times specified, unless already done. (g) Maintenance Program Revision Within 90 days after the effective date of this AD, revise the maintenance or inspection program, as applicable, by incorporating Airbus A330 Airworthiness Limitations Section (ALS) Part 4, System Equipment Maintenance Requirements (SEMR), Revision 06, dated September 18, 2017. The initial compliance times for the actions specified in Airbus A330 Airworthiness Limitations Section (ALS) Part 4, System Equipment Maintenance Requirements (SEMR), Revision 06, dated September 18, 2017, are within the applicable compliance times specified in Airbus A330 Airworthiness Limitations Section (ALS) Part 4, System Equipment Maintenance Requirements (SEMR), Revision 06, dated September 18, 2017, or within 90 days after the effective date of this AD, whichever occurs later, except as required by paragraph (h) of this AD. (h) Exceptions to Initial Compliance Times (1) Where Airbus A330 Airworthiness Limitations Section (ALS) Part 4, System Equipment Maintenance Requirements (SEMR), Revision 06, dated September 18, 2017, defines a calendar compliance time for elevator servo-controls having part number (P/N) SC4800-2, SC4800-3, SC4800-4, SC4800-6, SC4800-7, or SC4800-8 as ``August 31, 2004,'' the calendar compliance time is June 13, 2007 (34 months after August 13, 2004 (the effective date of AD 2004-13-25, Amendment 39- 13707 (69 FR 41394, July 9, 2004))). (2) Where Airbus A330 Airworthiness Limitations Section (ALS) Part 4, System Equipment Maintenance Requirements (SEMR), Revision 06, dated September 18, 2017, defines a calendar compliance time for spoiler servo-controls (SSCs) having P/N 1386A0000-01, 1386B0000-01, 1387A0000-01, or 1387B0000-01 as ``December 31, 2003,'' the calendar compliance time is November 19, 2005 (13 months after October 19, 2004 (the effective date of AD 2004-18-14, Amendment 39-13793 (69 FR 55326, September 14, 2004))). (3) Where Airbus A330 Airworthiness Limitations Section (ALS) Part 4, System Equipment Maintenance Requirements (SEMR), Revision 06, dated September 18, 2017, defines a calendar compliance time for elevator servo-controls having P/N SC4800-73, SC4800-93, SC4800-103, and SC4800-113 as ``June 30, 2008,'' the calendar compliance time is September 16, 2009 (17 months after April 16, 2008 (the effective date of AD 2008-06-07, Amendment 39-15419 (73 FR 13103, March 12, 2008; corrected April 15, 2008 (73 FR 20367)))). (4) The initial compliance time for replacement of the retraction brackets of the main landing gear (MLG) having a part number specified in paragraphs (h)(4)(i) through (h)(4)(xvi) of this AD is before the accumulation of 19,800 total landings on the affected retraction brackets of the MLG, or within 900 flight hours after April 9, 2012 (the effective date of AD 2012-04-07, Amendment 39-16963 (77 FR 12989, March 5, 2012)), whichever occurs later. (i) 201478303. (ii) 201478304. (iii) 201478305. (iv) 201478306. (v) 201478307. (vi) 201478308. (vii) 201428380. (viii) 201428381. (ix) 201428382. (x) 201428383. (xi) 201428384. (xii) 201428385. (xiii) 201428378. (xiv) 201428379. (xv) 201428351. (xvi) 201428352. (5) Where Airbus A330 Airworthiness Limitations Section (ALS) Part 4, System Equipment Maintenance Requirements (SEMR), Revision 06, dated September 18, 2017, defines a calendar compliance time for the modification of SSCs on three hydraulic circuits having P/N MZ4339390-01X, MZ4306000-01X, MZ4339390-02X, MZ4306000-02X, MZ4339390-10X, or MZ4306000-10X as ``March 5, 2010,'' the calendar compliance time is April 14, 2011 (18 months after October 14, 2009 (the effective date of AD 2009-18-20, Amendment 39-16017 (74 FR 46313, September 9, 2009) (``AD 2009-18-20''))). (6) Where Note (17) of Sub-Part 1, ``Life Limits,'' of Section 3, ``Systems Life-Limited Components,'' of Airbus A330 Airworthiness Limitations Section (ALS) Part 4, System Equipment Maintenance Requirements (SEMR), Revision 06, dated September 18, 2017, defines a calendar date of ``September 5, 2008,'' as a date for the determination of accumulated flight cycles since the airplane's initial entry into service, the date is October 14, 2009 (the effective date of AD 2009-18-20). (7) Where Note (17) of Sub-Part 1, ``Life Limits,'' of Section 3, ``Systems Life-Limited Components,'' of Airbus A330 Airworthiness Limitations Section (ALS) Part 4, System Equipment Maintenance Requirements (SEMR), Revision 06, dated September 18, 2017, defines a calendar compliance time as ``March 5, 2010,'' for the modification of affected servo controls, the calendar compliance time is April 14, 2011 (18 months after October 14, 2009 (the effective date of AD 2009-18-20)). (i) No Alternative Actions or Intervals After accomplishing the revision required by paragraph (g) of this AD, no alternative actions (e.g., inspections) or intervals may be used unless the actions or intervals are approved as an alternative method of compliance (AMOC) in accordance with the procedures specified in paragraph (k)(1) of this AD. (j) Terminating Actions for the Requirements of AD 2017-05-10 Accomplishing the actions required by paragraph (g) of this AD terminates all requirements of AD 2017-05-10. (k) Other FAA AD Provisions The following provisions also apply to this AD: (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: 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 Airbus SAS's 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 2017-0228, dated November 21, 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-2018-0788. (2) For more information about this AD, contact Vladimir Ulyanov, Aerospace Engineer, International Section, Transport Standards Branch, FAA, 2200 South 216th St., Des Moines, WA 98198; phone and fax: 206-231-3229. (3) For service information identified in this AD, contact Airbus SAS, Airworthiness Office--EAL, Rond-Point Emile Dewoitine No: 2, 31700 Blagnac Cedex, France; phone: +33 5 61 93 36 96; fax: +33 5 61 93 45 80; email: airworthiness.A330-A340@airbus.com; internet: http://www.airbus.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. [[Page 44514]] Issued in Des Moines, Washington, on August 22, 2018. James Cashdollar, Acting Director, System Oversight Division, Aircraft Certification Service. [FR Doc. 2018-18814 Filed 8-30-18; 8:45 am] BILLING CODE 4910-13-P
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The Boeing Company: Docket No. FAA– (h) Credit for Previous Actions (2) For service information identified in
2018–0763; Product Identifier 2018– This paragraph provides credit for the this AD, contact Boeing Commercial
NM–052–AD. actions specified in paragraph (g)(2) of this Airplanes, Attention: Contractual & Data
AD, if those actions were performed before Services (C&DS), 2600 Westminster Blvd.,
(a) Comments Due Date MC 110–SK57, Seal Beach, CA 90740–5600;
the effective date of this AD using Boeing
We must receive comments by October 15, Alert Service Bulletin B787–81205– telephone 562–797–1717; internet https://
2018. SB270039–00, Issue 001, dated July 31, 2017. www.myboeingfleet.com. You may view this
referenced service information at the FAA,
(b) Affected ADs (i) Exception to Service Information Transport Standards Branch, 2200 South
None. For purposes of determining compliance 216th St., Des Moines, WA. For information
with the requirements of this AD: Where the on the availability of this material at the
(c) Applicability service information identified in paragraph FAA, call 206–231–3195.
This AD applies to The Boeing Company (g)(1) of this AD uses the phrase ‘‘the Issue Issued in Des Moines, Washington, on
airplanes, certificated in any category, as 001 date on this service bulletin,’’ this AD August 17, 2018.
identified in paragraphs (c)(1) and (c)(2) of requires using ‘‘the effective date of this AD.’’ Michael Kaszycki,
this AD.
(j) Alternative Methods of Compliance Acting Director, System Oversight Division,
(1) Model 787–8 airplanes identified in
(AMOCs) Aircraft Certification Service.
Boeing Alert Service Bulletin B787–81205–
SB290032–00, Issue 001, dated November 17, (1) The Manager, Seattle ACO Branch, [FR Doc. 2018–18812 Filed 8–30–18; 8:45 am]
2017. FAA, has the authority to approve AMOCs BILLING CODE 4910–13–P
(2) Model 787–9 airplanes identified in for this AD, if requested using the procedures
Boeing Alert Service Bulletin B787–81205– found in 14 CFR 39.19. In accordance with
14 CFR 39.19, send your request to your DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION
SB290033–00, Issue 001, dated November 17,
principal inspector or local Flight Standards
2017.
District Office, as appropriate. If sending Federal Aviation Administration
(d) Subject information directly to the manager of the
certification office, send it to the attention of
Air Transport Association (ATA) of 14 CFR Part 39
the person identified in paragraph (k)(1) of
America Code 29, Hydraulic Power. this AD. Information may be emailed to: 9- [Docket No. FAA–2018–0788; Product
(e) Unsafe Condition ANM-Seattle-ACO-AMOC-Requests@faa.gov. Identifier 2018–NM–004–AD]
(2) Before using any approved AMOC,
This AD was prompted by a determination notify your appropriate principal inspector, RIN 2120–AA64
that certain areas in the tire/wheel threat or lacking a principal inspector, the manager
zones could be susceptible to damage, which of the local flight standards district office/ Airworthiness Directives; Airbus SAS
could result in loss of braking on one main certificate holding district office. Airplanes
landing gear (MLG) truck, loss of nose wheel (3) An AMOC that provides an acceptable
steering, and loss of directional control on level of safety may be used for any repair, AGENCY: Federal Aviation
the ground when below rudder effectiveness modification, or alteration required by this Administration (FAA), DOT.
speed. We are issuing this AD to address AD if it is approved by the Boeing ACTION: Notice of proposed rulemaking
damage from a MLG thrown tire tread or tire Commercial Airplanes Organization (NPRM).
burst event, which could result in loss of Designation Authorization (ODA) that has
directional control on the ground and been authorized by the Manager, Seattle ACO SUMMARY: We propose to adopt a new
consequent runway excursion. Branch, FAA, to make those findings. To be airworthiness directive (AD) for certain
approved, the repair method, modification Airbus SAS Model A330–200, –200F,
(f) Compliance deviation, or alteration deviation must meet
Comply with this AD within the the certification basis of the airplane, and the
and –300 series airplanes. This
compliance times specified, unless already approval must specifically refer to this AD. proposed AD was prompted by a
done. (4) For service information that contains revision of the airworthiness limitations
steps that are labeled as RC, the provisions section (ALS), which provides new and
(g) Required Actions of paragraphs (j)(4)(i) and (j)(4)(ii) of this AD more restrictive maintenance
(1) At the applicable time specified in apply. requirements and airworthiness
paragraph 5, ‘‘Compliance,’’ of Boeing Alert (i) The steps labeled as RC, including limitations for airplane structures and
Service Bulletin B787–81205–SB290032–00, substeps under an RC step and any figures systems. This proposed AD would
Issue 001, dated November 17, 2017 (for identified in an RC step, must be done to require revising the maintenance or
Model 787–8 airplanes); or Boeing Alert comply with the AD. If a step or substep is
labeled ‘‘RC Exempt,’’ then the RC inspection program to incorporate new
Service Bulletin B787–81205–SB290033–00, maintenance requirements and
Issue 001, dated November 17, 2017 (for requirement is removed from that step or
Model 787–9 airplanes); as applicable; except substep. An AMOC is required for any airworthiness limitations. We are
as specified in paragraph (i) of this AD: Do deviations to RC steps, including substeps proposing this AD to address the unsafe
all applicable actions identified as ‘‘RC’’ and identified figures. condition on these products.
(required for compliance) in, and in (ii) Steps not labeled as RC may be DATES: We must receive comments on
accordance with, the Accomplishment deviated from using accepted methods in this proposed AD by October 15, 2018.
accordance with the operator’s maintenance
Instructions of Boeing Alert Service Bulletin ADDRESSES: You may send comments,
or inspection program without obtaining
B787–81205–SB290032–00, Issue 001, dated using the procedures found in 14 CFR
approval of an AMOC, provided the RC steps,
November 17, 2017; or Boeing Alert Service 11.43 and 11.45, by any of the following
including substeps and identified figures, can
Bulletin B787–81205–SB290033–00, Issue still be done as specified, and the airplane methods:
001, dated November 17, 2017, as applicable. can be put back in an airworthy condition. • Federal eRulemaking Portal: Go to
daltland on DSKBBV9HB2PROD with PROPOSALS
(2) For Model 787–9 airplanes: Prior to or
concurrently with accomplishing the actions (k) Related Information http://www.regulations.gov. Follow the
required by paragraph (g)(1) of this AD, do instructions for submitting comments.
(1) For more information about this AD,
all applicable actions (including software • Fax: 202–493–2251.
contact Kelly McGuckin, Aerospace
installation) identified as RC, in accordance Engineer, Systems and Equipment Section,
• Mail: U.S. Department of
with the Accomplishment Instructions of FAA, Seattle ACO Branch, 2200 South 216th Transportation, Docket Operations, M–
Boeing Alert Service Bulletin B787–81205– St., Des Moines, WA 98198; phone and fax: 30, West Building Ground Floor, Room
SB270039–00, Issue 002, dated March 8, 206–231–3546; email: Kelly.McGuckin@ W12–140, 1200 New Jersey Avenue SE,
2018. faa.gov. Washington, DC 20590.
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![Federal Register / Vol. 83, No. 170 / Friday, August 31, 2018 / Proposed Rules 44511
• Hand Delivery: Deliver to Mail Union, has issued EASA AD 2017–0228, applicable to aircraft systems
address above between 9 a.m. and 5 dated November 21, 2017 (referred to susceptible to aging effects. This service
p.m., Monday through Friday, except after this as the Mandatory Continuing information is reasonably available
Federal holidays. Airworthiness Information, or ‘‘the because the interested parties have
For service information identified in MCAI’’), to correct an unsafe condition access to it through their normal course
this NPRM, contact Airbus SAS, for all Airbus SAS Model A330 and of business or by the means identified
Airworthiness Office—EAL, Rond-Point A340 series airplanes. The MCAI states: in the ADDRESSES section.
Emile Dewoitine No: 2, 31700 Blagnac The airworthiness limitations are currently
Cedex, France; phone: +33 5 61 93 36 FAA’s Determination
defined and published in the Airbus A330
96; fax: +33 5 61 93 45 80; email: and A340 Airworthiness Limitations Section This product has been approved by
airworthiness.A330–A340@airbus.com; (ALS) documents. The airworthiness the aviation authority of another
internet: http://www.airbus.com. You limitations applicable to the System country, and is approved for operation
may view this service information at the Equipment Maintenance Requirements, in the United States. Pursuant to our
FAA, Transport Standards Branch, 2200 which are approved by EASA, are specified bilateral agreement with the State of
South 216th St., Des Moines, WA. For in Airbus A330 and A340 ALS Part 4. Failure
to comply with these instructions could Design Authority, we have been notified
information on the availability of this of the unsafe condition described in the
result in an unsafe condition.
material at the FAA, call 206–231–3195. EASA issued AD 2016–0011 [which MCAI and service information
Examining the AD Docket corresponds to FAA AD 2017–05–10, referenced above. We are proposing this
Amendment 39–18821 (82 FR 13379, March AD because we evaluated all the
You may examine the AD docket on 13, 2017) (‘‘AD 2017–05–10’’)] to require the relevant information and determined
the internet at http:// actions as specified in Airbus A330 and A340 the unsafe condition described
www.regulations.gov by searching for ALS Part 4 at Revision 05 and Revision 04, previously is likely to exist or develop
and locating Docket No. FAA–2018– respectively.
on other products of the same type
0788; or in person at Docket Operations Since this [EASA] AD was issued, Airbus
published Revision 06 and Revision 05, design.
between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m., Monday
through Friday, except Federal holidays. respectively, of Airbus A330 and A340 ALS Proposed Requirements of This NPRM
The AD docket contains this NPRM, the Part 4, which introduce new and more
restrictive maintenance requirements and/or This proposed AD would require
regulatory evaluation, any comments
received, and other information. The
airworthiness limitations. revising the maintenance or inspection
For the reason described above, this program to incorporate new
street address for Docket Operations [EASA] AD retains the requirements of EASA
(phone: 800–647–5527) is in the maintenance requirements and
AD 2016–0011, which is superseded, and airworthiness limitations.
ADDRESSES section. Comments will be requires accomplishment of the actions
available in the AD docket shortly after specified in Airbus A330 ALS Part 4 Revision Differences Between This Proposed AD
receipt. 06, or A340 ALS Part 4 Revision 05, as and the MCAI or Service Information
FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: applicable.
EASA AD 2017–0228, dated
Vladimir Ulyanov, Aerospace Engineer, The unsafe condition is reduced November 21, 2017, specifies that if
International Section, Transport control of the airplane due to the failure there are findings from the ALS
Standards Branch, FAA, 2200 South of system components. inspection tasks, corrective actions must
216th St., Des Moines, WA 98198; You may examine the MCAI in the
be accomplished in accordance with
phone and fax: 206–231–3229. AD docket on the internet at http://
Airbus SAS maintenance
SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: www.regulations.gov by searching for
documentation. However, this proposed
and locating Docket No. FAA–2018–
Comments Invited AD does not include that requirement.
0788.
We invite you to send any written Operators of U.S.-registered airplanes
relevant data, views, or arguments about Relationship Between Proposed AD and are required by general airworthiness
this proposal. Send your comments to AD 2017–05–10 and operational regulations to perform
an address listed under the ADDRESSES This NPRM would not propose to maintenance using methods that are
section. Include ‘‘Docket No. FAA– supersede AD 2017–05–10. Rather, we acceptable to the FAA. We consider
2018–0788; Product Identifier 2018– have determined that a stand-alone AD those methods to be adequate to address
NM–004–AD’’ at the beginning of your would be more appropriate to address any corrective actions necessitated by
comments. We specifically invite the changes in the MCAI. This NPRM the findings of ALS inspections required
comments on the overall regulatory, would require revising the maintenance by this proposed AD.
economic, environmental, and energy or inspection program to incorporate This proposed AD does not include
aspects of this NPRM. We will consider new maintenance requirements and Model A340 series airplanes in the
all comments received by the closing airworthiness limitations. Applicability. AD 2014–23–17,
date and may amend this NPRM Accomplishment of the proposed Amendment 39–18033 (79 FR 71304,
because of those comments. actions would then terminate all of the December 2, 2014), currently addresses
We will post all comments we requirements of AD 2017–05–10. the identified unsafe condition for
receive, without change, to http:// Model A340 series airplanes. We have
Related Service Information Under 1 also added EASA AD 2017–0228, dated
www.regulations.gov, including any
CFR Part 51 November 21, 2017, to the required
personal information you provide. We
daltland on DSKBBV9HB2PROD with PROPOSALS
will also post a report summarizing each Airbus SAS has issued A330 airworthiness action list (RAAL) for
substantive verbal contact we receive Airworthiness Limitations Section Model A340 series airplanes.
about this NPRM. (ALS) Part 4, System Equipment
Airworthiness Limitations Based on
Maintenance Requirements (SEMR),
Discussion Type Design
Revision 06, dated September 18, 2017.
The European Aviation Safety Agency This service information describes The FAA recently became aware of an
(EASA), which is the Technical Agent preventative maintenance requirements issue related to the applicability of ADs
for the Member States of the European and associated airworthiness limitations that require incorporation of an ALS
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![44512 Federal Register / Vol. 83, No. 170 / Friday, August 31, 2018 / Proposed Rules
revision into an operator’s maintenance revision identified in this proposed AD. Regulatory Findings
or inspection program. Operators of airplanes with an original We determined that this proposed AD
Typically, when these types of ADs certificate of airworthiness or original would not have federalism implications
are issued by civil aviation authorities export certificate of airworthiness under Executive Order 13132. This
of other countries, they apply to all issued after that date must comply with proposed AD would not have a
airplanes covered under an identified the airworthiness limitations specified substantial direct effect on the States, on
type certificate (TC). The corresponding as part of the approved type design and the relationship between the national
FAA AD typically retains applicability referenced on the TC data sheet. Government and the States, or on the
to all of those airplanes.
In addition, U.S. operators must Costs of Compliance distribution of power and
operate their airplanes in an airworthy responsibilities among the various
condition, in accordance with 14 CFR We estimate that this proposed AD levels of government.
affects 104 airplanes of U.S. registry. For the reasons discussed above, I
91.7(a). Included in this obligation is the
requirement to perform any certify this proposed regulation:
We have determined that revising the
1. Is not a ‘‘significant regulatory
maintenance or inspections specified in maintenance or inspection program
action’’ under Executive Order 12866;
the ALS, and in accordance with the takes an average of 90 work-hours per 2. Is not a ‘‘significant rule’’ under the
ALS as specified in 14 CFR 43.16 and operator, although we recognize that DOT Regulatory Policies and Procedures
91.403(c), unless an alternative has been this number may vary from operator to (44 FR 11034, February 26, 1979);
approved by the FAA. operator. In the past, we have estimated 3. Will not affect intrastate aviation in
When a TC is issued for a type design, that this action takes 1 work-hour per Alaska; and
the specific ALS, including revisions, is airplane. Since operators incorporate 4. Will not have a significant
a part of that type design, as specified maintenance or inspection program economic impact, positive or negative,
in 14 CFR 21.31(c). changes for their affected fleet(s), we
The sum effect of these operational on a substantial number of small entities
have determined that a per-operator under the criteria of the Regulatory
and maintenance requirements is an estimate is more accurate than a per-
obligation to comply with the ALS Flexibility Act.
airplane estimate. Therefore, we
defined in the type design referenced in estimate the total cost per operator to be List of Subjects in 14 CFR Part 39
the manufacturer’s conformity
$7,650 (90 work-hours × $85 per work- Air transportation, Aircraft, Aviation
statement. This obligation may
hour). safety, Incorporation by reference,
introduce a conflict with an AD that
Safety.
requires a specific ALS revision if new Authority for This Rulemaking
airplanes are delivered with a later The Proposed Amendment
revision as part of their type design. Title 49 of the United States Code
specifies the FAA’s authority to issue Accordingly, under the authority
To address this conflict, the FAA has delegated to me by the Administrator,
approved alternative methods of rules on aviation safety. Subtitle I,
the FAA proposes to amend 14 CFR part
compliance (AMOCs) that allow section 106, describes the authority of
39 as follows:
operators to incorporate the most recent the FAA Administrator. Subtitle VII:
ALS revision into their maintenance/ Aviation Programs, describes in more PART 39—AIRWORTHINESS
inspection programs, in lieu of the ALS detail the scope of the Agency’s DIRECTIVES
revision required by the AD. This authority.
eliminates the conflict and enables the We are issuing this rulemaking under ■ 1. The authority citation for part 39
operator to comply with both the AD the authority described in Subtitle VII, continues to read as follows:
and the type design. Part A, Subpart III, Section 44701: Authority: 49 U.S.C. 106(g), 40113, 44701.
However, compliance with AMOCs is ‘‘General requirements.’’ Under that
normally optional, and we recently section, Congress charges the FAA with § 39.13 [Amended]
became aware that some operators promoting safe flight of civil aircraft in ■ 2. The FAA amends § 39.13 by adding
choose to retain the AD-mandated ALS air commerce by prescribing regulations the following new airworthiness
revision in their fleet-wide for practices, methods, and procedures directive (AD):
maintenance/inspection programs, the Administrator finds necessary for Airbus SAS: Docket No. FAA–2018–0788;
including those for new airplanes safety in air commerce. This regulation Product Identifier 2018–NM–004–AD.
delivered with later ALS revisions, to is within the scope of that authority
help standardize the maintenance of the (a) Comments Due Date
because it addresses an unsafe condition
fleet. To ensure that operators comply We must receive comments by October 15,
that is likely to exist or develop on 2018.
with the applicable ALS revision for
products identified in this rulemaking
newly delivered airplanes containing a (b) Affected ADs
action.
later revision than that specified in an This AD affects AD 2017–05–10,
AD, we plan to limit the applicability of This proposed AD is issued in
Amendment 39–18821 (82 FR 13379, March
ADs that mandate ALS revisions to accordance with authority delegated by 13, 2017) (‘‘AD 2017–05–10’’).
those airplanes that are subject to an the Executive Director, Aircraft
earlier revision of the ALS, either as part Certification Service, as authorized by (c) Applicability
of the type design or as mandated by an FAA Order 8000.51C. In accordance This AD applies to Airbus SAS Model
daltland on DSKBBV9HB2PROD with PROPOSALS
earlier AD. with that order, issuance of ADs is A330–201, A330–202, A330–203, A330–223,
This proposed AD therefore would normally a function of the Compliance A330–243, A330–223F, A330–243F, A330–
apply to Airbus SAS airplanes and Airworthiness Division, but during 301, A330–302, A330–303, A330–321, A330–
322, A330–323, A330–341, A330–342, and
identified in paragraph (c) of this this transition period, the Executive
A330–343 airplanes, certificated in any
proposed AD with an original certificate Director has delegated the authority to category, with an original certificate of
of airworthiness or original export issue ADs applicable to transport airworthiness or original export certificate of
certificate of airworthiness that was category airplanes to the Director of the airworthiness issued on or before September
issued on or before the date of the ALS System Oversight Division. 18, 2017.
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![44514 Federal Register / Vol. 83, No. 170 / Friday, August 31, 2018 / Proposed Rules
Issued in Des Moines, Washington, on Blagnac Cedex, France; telephone +33 5 Model A340–200 and –300 series
August 22, 2018. 61 93 36 96; fax +33 5 61 93 44 51; email airplanes. The MCAI states:
James Cashdollar, account.airworth-eas@airbus.com; Four A330 RAT units were returned to the
Acting Director, System Oversight Division, internet http://www.airbus.com. You supplier due to low discharge pressure.
Aircraft Certification Service. may view this service information at the These defects were detected during Airbus
[FR Doc. 2018–18814 Filed 8–30–18; 8:45 am] FAA, Transport Standards Branch, 2200 production tests. Subsequent investigations
BILLING CODE 4910–13–P South 216th St., Des Moines, WA. For by the RAT manufacturer UTAS (formerly
information on the availability of this Hamilton Sundstrand) revealed that some
material at the FAA, call 206–231–3195. RAT hydraulic pumps, [part number] P/N
5916430, were involved in an alternative
DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION
Examining the AD Docket manufacturing process of the pump pistons.
This resulted in form deviations (rough
Federal Aviation Administration You may examine the AD docket on surface finish and sharp edges), which
the internet at http:// caused excessive wear and damage to the
14 CFR Part 39 www.regulations.gov by searching for bore where the pistons moved.
and locating Docket No. FAA–2018– This condition, if not corrected, could lead
[Docket No. FAA–2018–0764; Product
Identifier 2018–NM–074–AD] 0764; or in person at Docket Operations to low performance of the pump, possibly
between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m., Monday resulting in reduced control of the aeroplane,
RIN 2120–AA64 through Friday, except Federal holidays. particularly if occurring following a total
The AD docket contains this NPRM, the engine flame out, or during a total loss of
Airworthiness Directives; Airbus SAS regulatory evaluation, any comments normal electrical power generation.
Airplanes To address this potential unsafe condition,
received, and other information. The Airbus published [service bulletin] SB A330–
AGENCY: Federal Aviation street address for Docket Operations 29–3130 and SB A340–29–4098, providing
Administration (FAA), DOT. (phone: 800–647–5527) is in the instructions for identification and
ADDRESSES section. Comments will be replacement of the affected parts.
ACTION: Notice of proposed rulemaking
available in the AD docket shortly after For the reasons described above, this
(NPRM). [EASA] AD requires replacement of the
receipt.
SUMMARY: We propose to adopt a new FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: affected parts. This [EASA] AD also requires
re-identification of the RAT module.
airworthiness directive (AD) for all Vladimir Ulyanov, Aerospace Engineer,
Airbus SAS Model A330–200 Freighter International Section, Transport You may examine the MCAI in the
series airplanes, Model A330–200 and Standards Branch, FAA, 2200 South AD docket on the internet at http://
–300 series airplanes, and Model A340– 216th St., Des Moines, WA 98198; www.regulations.gov by searching for
200 and –300 series airplanes. This telephone and fax: 206–231–3229. and locating Docket No. FAA–2018–
proposed AD was prompted by defects SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: 0764.
found during production tests of ram air Other Related Rulemaking
Comments Invited
turbine (RAT) units; investigation
revealed that the defects were due to We invite you to send any written The FAA issued AD 2016–14–01,
certain RAT hydraulic pumps having an relevant data, views, or arguments about Amendment 39–18582 (81 FR 44983,
alternative manufacturing process of the this proposal. Send your comments to July 12, 2016); corrected (81 FR 51097,
pump pistons. This proposed AD would an address listed under the ADDRESSES August 3, 2016) (‘‘AD 2016–14–01’’). AD
require replacing any defective RAT section. Include ‘‘Docket No. FAA– 2016–14–01 applies to certain Airbus
hydraulic pump with a serviceable part 2018–0764; Product Identifier 2018– SAS Model A330–200 Freighter series
and re-identifying the RAT module part NM–074–AD’’ at the beginning of your airplanes; Model A330–200 and A330–
number. We are proposing this AD to comments. We specifically invite 300 series airplanes; Model A340–200
address the unsafe condition on these comments on the overall regulatory, and A340–300 series airplanes; Model
products. economic, environmental, and energy A340–500 series airplanes; and Model
aspects of this NPRM. We will consider A340–600 series airplanes. AD 2016–
DATES: We must receive comments on all comments received by the closing 14–01 requires identification of the
this proposed AD by October 15, 2018. date and may amend this NPRM manufacturer, part number, and serial
ADDRESSES: You may send comments, because of those comments. number of the RAT, and re-
using the procedures found in 14 CFR We will post all comments we identification and modification of the
11.43 and 11.45, by any of the following receive, without change, to http:// RAT if necessary. AD 2016–14–01 was
methods: www.regulations.gov, including any prompted by a report indicating that,
• Federal eRulemaking Portal: Go to personal information you provide. We during an operational test of a RAT, the
http://www.regulations.gov. Follow the will also post a report summarizing each RAT did not deploy in automatic mode.
instructions for submitting comments. substantive verbal contact we receive AD 2016–14–01 was issued to prevent
• Fax: 202–493–2251. about this NPRM. non-deployment of the RAT, which,
• Mail: U.S. Department of following a total engine flame-out, or
Transportation, Docket Operations, M– Discussion
during a total loss of normal electrical
30, West Building Ground Floor, Room The European Aviation Safety Agency power generation, could result in
W12–140, 1200 New Jersey Avenue SE, (EASA), which is the Technical Agent reduced control of the airplane.
Washington, DC 20590. for the Member States of the European
daltland on DSKBBV9HB2PROD with PROPOSALS
• Hand Delivery: Deliver to Mail Union, has issued EASA AD 2018–0062, Related Service Information Under 1
address above between 9 a.m. and 5 dated March 20, 2018 (referred to after CFR Part 51
p.m., Monday through Friday, except this as the Mandatory Continuing Airbus SAS has issued Service
Federal holidays. Airworthiness Information, or ‘‘the Bulletins A330–29–3130 and A340–29–
For service information identified in MCAI’’), to correct an unsafe condition 4098, both dated May 3, 2017. This
this NPRM, contact Airbus SAS, for all Airbus SAS Model A330–200 service information describes
Airworthiness Office—EIAS, Rond- Freighter series airplanes, Model A330– procedures for replacing any affected
Point Emile Dewoitine No: 2, 31700 200 and –300 series airplanes, and RAT hydraulic pump with a serviceable
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Document Created: 2018-08-31 00:54:01
Document Modified: 2018-08-31 00:54:01
| 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 October 15, 2018. | |
| Contact | Vladimir Ulyanov, Aerospace Engineer, International Section, Transport Standards Branch, FAA, 2200 South 216th St., Des Moines, WA 98198; phone and fax: 206-231-3229. | |
| FR Citation | 83 FR 44510 | |
| RIN Number | 2120-AA64 | |
| CFR Associated | Air Transportation; Aircraft; Aviation Safety; Incorporation by Reference and Safety |
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