83_FR_45725 83 FR 45550 - Airworthiness Directives; Airbus SAS Airplanes

83 FR 45550 - Airworthiness Directives; Airbus SAS Airplanes

DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION
Federal Aviation Administration

Federal Register Volume 83, Issue 175 (September 10, 2018)

Page Range45550-45554
FR Document2018-19437

We are superseding Airworthiness Directive (AD) 2018-12-08, which applied to certain Airbus SAS Model A330-200 and -300 series airplanes, and Model A340-212, -213, -312, and -313 airplanes. AD 2018- 12-08 required repetitive inspections of certain fastener holes, and related investigative and corrective actions if necessary. This new AD corrects certain compliance time references. This AD was prompted by a report of cracking at fastener holes located at a certain frame (FR) on the lower shell panel junction. We are issuing this AD to address the unsafe condition on these products.

Federal Register, Volume 83 Issue 175 (Monday, September 10, 2018)
[Federal Register Volume 83, Number 175 (Monday, September 10, 2018)]
[Rules and Regulations]
[Pages 45550-45554]
From the Federal Register Online  [www.thefederalregister.org]
[FR Doc No: 2018-19437]


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DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION

Federal Aviation Administration

14 CFR Part 39

[Docket No. FAA-2018-0789; Product Identifier 2018-NM-120-AD; Amendment 
39-19395; AD 2018-18-16]
RIN 2120-AA64


Airworthiness Directives; Airbus SAS Airplanes

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

ACTION: Final rule; request for comments.

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

SUMMARY: We are superseding Airworthiness Directive (AD) 2018-12-08, 
which applied to certain Airbus SAS Model A330-200 and -300 series 
airplanes, and Model A340-212, -213, -312, and -313 airplanes. AD 2018-
12-08 required repetitive inspections of certain fastener holes, and 
related investigative and corrective actions if necessary. This new AD 
corrects certain compliance time references. This AD was prompted by a 
report of cracking at fastener holes located at a certain frame (FR) on 
the lower shell panel junction. We are issuing this AD to address the 
unsafe condition on these products.

DATES: This AD is effective September 25, 2018.
    The Director of the Federal Register approved the incorporation by 
reference of certain publications listed in this AD as of August 22, 
2018 (83 FR 33821, July 18, 2018).
    We must receive comments on this AD by October 25, 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: U.S. Department of Transportation, Docket 
Operations, M-30, West Building Ground Floor, Room W12-140, 1200 New 
Jersey Avenue SE, Washington, DC, between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m., Monday 
through Friday, except Federal holidays.
    For service information identified in this final rule, contact 
Airbus SAS, Airworthiness Office--EAL, Rond-Point Emile Dewoitine No: 
2, 31700 Blagnac

[[Page 45551]]

Cedex, France; telephone: +33 5 61 93 36 96; fax: +33 5 61 93 45 80; 
email: [email protected]; internet: http://www.airbus.com. You may view this referenced service information at the 
FAA, Transport Standards Branch, 2200 South 216th St., Des Moines, WA. 
For information on the availability of this material at the FAA, call 
206-231-3195. It is also available on the internet at http://www.regulations.gov by searching for and locating Docket No. FAA-2018-
0789.

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-
0789; or in person at the Docket Management Facility between 9 a.m. and 
5 p.m., Monday through Friday, except Federal holidays. The AD docket 
contains this AD, the regulatory evaluation, any comments received, and 
other information. The street address for Docket Operations (telephone 
800-647-5527) is listed above. 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; telephone and fax: 206-231-3229.

SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: 

Discussion

    We issued AD 2018-12-08, Amendment 39-19312 (83 FR 33821, July 18, 
2018) (``AD 2018-12-08''), which applied to certain Airbus SAS Model 
A330-200 and -300 series airplanes, and Model A340-212, -213, -312, and 
-313 airplanes. AD 2018-12-08 was prompted by a report of cracking at 
fastener holes located at FR40 on the lower shell panel junction. AD 
2018-12-08 required repetitive inspections of certain fastener holes, 
and related investigative and corrective actions if necessary. We 
issued AD 2018-12-08 to address cracking at FR40 on the lower shell 
panel junction; such cracking could lead to reduced structural 
integrity of the fuselage.
    Since we issued AD 2018-12-08, we have determined that it is 
necessary to correct certain service bulletin table references, which 
provide the compliance times for the initial inspection. Table 1 to 
paragraph (g)(1) of AD 2018-12-08 pointed to ``table 1'' of the service 
information for the initial compliance time. However, table 2 and table 
3 in the service bulletins also apply to certain airplanes (those in 
Configuration 1). All airplanes belonging to affected U.S. operators 
are in Configuration 2 or Configuration 3, which use only table 1 in 
the service bulletins. This AD corrects the service bulletin table 
references for the compliance times. We have changed table 1 to 
paragraph (g)(1) of this AD by removing the limitation to ``table 1'' 
of the service bulletins, and instead referring to the compliance times 
in ``paragraph 1.E., `Compliance,' '' of the service bulletins.
    The European Aviation Safety Agency (EASA), which is the Technical 
Agent for the Member States of the European Union, has issued EASA AD 
2017-0063, dated April 12, 2017 (referred to after this as the 
Mandatory Continuing Airworthiness Information, or ``the MCAI''), to 
correct an unsafe condition for certain Airbus SAS Model A330-200, 
A330-300, and A340-200 series airplanes, and Model A340-312 and -313 
airplanes. The MCAI states:

    During full scale fatigue test of the Frame (FR) 40 to fuselage 
skin panel junction, fatigue damage was found. Corrective actions 
consisted of in-service installation of an internal reinforcing 
strap on the related junction, as currently required by DGAC 
[Direction G[eacute]n[eacute]rale de l'Aviation Civile] France AD 
1999-448-126(B), which refers to Airbus Service Bulletin (SB) A340-
53-4104 Revision 02, and [DGAC] AD 2001-070(B), which refers to 
Airbus SB A330-53-3093 Revision 04; retrofit improvement of internal 
reinforcing strap fatigue life through recommended Airbus SB A330-
53-3145; and introducing a design improvement in production through 
Airbus mod 44360.
    After those actions were implemented, cracks were found on both 
left-hand (LH) and right-hand (RH) sides on internal strap, butt 
strap, keel beam fitting, or forward fitting FR40 flange. These 
findings were made during embodiment of a FR40 web repair on an A330 
aeroplane, and during keel beam replacement on an A340 aeroplane, 
where the internal strap was removed and a special detailed 
inspection (SDI) was performed on several holes.
    This condition, if not detected and corrected, could affect the 
structural integrity of the centre fuselage of the aeroplane.
    Prompted by these findings, Airbus issued SB A330-53-3215 and SB 
A340-53-4215, providing inspection instructions. Consequently, EASA 
issued AD 2014-0136 [which corresponds to FAA AD 2017-07-07, 
Amendment 39-18845 (82 FR 18547, April 20, 2017) (``AD 2017-07-
07'')] to require repetitive SDI (rototest) of 10 fastener holes 
located at the FR40 lower shell panel junction on both LH and RH 
sides and, depending on findings, accomplishment of applicable 
corrective action(s).
    Since that [EASA] AD was issued, prompted by the results of 
complementary fatigue analyses, it was determined that postmod 55792 
aeroplanes could be also affected by crack initiation and 
propagation at this area of the fuselage. These analyses 
demonstrated that post-mod 55792 aeroplanes must follow the same 
maintenance program as aeroplanes in postmod 55306 and pre-mod 55792 
configuration. Consequently, Airbus published SB A330-53-3215 
Revision 02 and SB A340-53-4215 Revision 02 to expand the 
Effectivity accordingly.
    For the reasons described above, this [EASA] AD retains the 
requirements of EASA AD 2014-0136, which is superseded, which now 
also apply to aeroplanes in post-mod 55792 configuration [the 
applicability identifies airplanes in post-mod 44360 configuration].

    AD 2017-07-07 included Model A340-211 airplanes in its 
applicability. Airbus SAS Model A340-211 airplanes are not identified 
in the applicability of this AD because those airplanes are not 
affected by the identified unsafe condition. All of those airplanes are 
in the pre-Airbus SAS modification 44360 configuration. The MCAI also 
does not include Model A340-211 airplanes in its applicability.
    The compliance time ranges between 20,000 flight cycles or 65,400 
flight hours and 20,800 flight cycles or 68,300 flight hours, depending 
on airplane utilization and configuration. The repetitive inspection 
interval ranges between 14,000 flight cycles or 95,200 flight hours and 
24,600 flight cycles or 98,700 flight hours, depending on airplane 
utilization and configuration.
    You may examine the MCAI on the internet at http://www.regulations.gov by searching for and locating Docket No. FAA-2018-
0789.

Related Service Information Under 1 CFR Part 51

    Airbus SAS has issued Service Bulletin A330-53-3215, Revision 03, 
dated January 22, 2018; and Service Bulletin A340-53-4215, Revision 02, 
dated November 23, 2016. This service information describes procedures 
for repetitive rototest inspections of certain fastener holes, and 
related investigative and corrective actions if necessary. These 
documents are distinct since they apply to different airplane models. 
This service information is reasonably available because the interested 
parties have access to it through their normal course of business or by 
the means identified in the ADDRESSES section.

FAA's Determination and Requirements of This AD

    This product has been approved by the aviation authority of another 
country, and is approved for operation in the United States. Pursuant 
to our bilateral agreement with the State of Design Authority, we have 
been notified of the unsafe condition described in the

[[Page 45552]]

MCAI and service information referenced above. We are issuing this AD 
because we evaluated all pertinent information and determined the 
unsafe condition exists and is likely to exist or develop on other 
products of the same type design.

FAA's Justification and Determination of the Effective Date

    This AD corrects an error that affects compliance for non-U.S.-
registered airplanes only. Therefore, we find good cause that notice 
and opportunity for prior public comment are unnecessary. In addition, 
for the reason stated above, we find that good cause exists for making 
this amendment effective in less than 30 days.

Comments Invited

    This AD is a final rule that involves requirements affecting flight 
safety, and we did not precede it by notice and opportunity for public 
comment. We invite you to send any written relevant data, views, or 
arguments about this AD. Send your comments to an address listed under 
the ADDRESSES section. Include ``Docket No. FAA-2018-0789; Product 
Identifier 2018-NM-120-AD'' at the beginning of your comments. We 
specifically invite comments on the overall regulatory, economic, 
environmental, and energy aspects of this AD. We will consider all 
comments received by the closing date and may amend this AD 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 AD.

Costs of Compliance

    We estimate that this AD affects 99 airplanes of U.S. registry. 
This AD adds no new economic burden. The current costs for this AD are 
repeated for the convenience of affected operators, as follows:

                                      Estimated Costs for Required Actions
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                                    Cost per       Cost on U.S.
                          Labor cost                              Parts cost        product         operators
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
42 work-hours x $85 per hour = $3,570........................              $0           $3,570         $353,430
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

    We estimate the following costs to do any necessary repairs that 
would be required based on the results of the required inspections. We 
have no way of determining the number of aircraft that might need these 
repairs:

                 Estimated Costs of On-Condition Actions
------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                             Cost per
              Labor cost                   Parts cost        product
------------------------------------------------------------------------
46 work-hours x $85 per hour = $3,910.          $2,358           $6,268
------------------------------------------------------------------------

Authority for This Rulemaking

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

Regulatory Findings

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

List of Subjects in 14 CFR Part 39

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

Adoption of the Amendment

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

PART 39--AIRWORTHINESS DIRECTIVES

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

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


Sec.  39.13   [Amended]

0
2. The FAA amends Sec.  39.13 by removing airworthiness directive (AD) 
2018-12-08, Amendment 39-19312 (83 FR 33821, July 18, 2018), and adding 
the following new AD:

2018-18-16 Airbus SAS: Amendment 39-19395; Docket No. FAA-2018-0789; 
Product Identifier 2018-NM-120-AD.

[[Page 45553]]

(a) Effective Date

    This AD is effective September 25, 2018.

(b) Affected ADs

    This AD replaces AD 2018-12-08, Amendment 39-19312 (83 FR 33821, 
July 18, 2018) (``AD 2018-12-08'').

(c) Applicability

    This AD applies to the airplanes, certificated in any category, 
identified in paragraphs (c)(1) and (c)(2) of this AD, all 
manufacturer serial numbers on which Airbus SAS Modification 44360 
has been embodied in production.
    (1) Airbus SAS Model A330-201, -202, -203, -223, -243, -301, -
302, -303, -321, -322, -323, -341, -342, and -343 airplanes.
    (2) Airbus SAS Model A340-212, -213, -312, and -313 airplanes.

(d) Subject

    Air Transport Association (ATA) of America Code 53, Fuselage.

(e) Reason

    This AD was prompted by a report of cracking at fastener holes 
located at frame (FR) 40 on the lower shell panel junction. We are 
issuing this AD to address this cracking, which could lead to 
reduced structural integrity of the fuselage.

(f) Compliance

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

(g) Retained Compliance Times for Paragraph (h) of This AD, With 
Corrected Compliance Time Locations

    This paragraph restates the requirements of paragraph (g) of AD 
2018-12-08, with corrected compliance time locations in table 1 to 
paragraph (g)(1) of this AD. Accomplish the actions required by 
paragraph (h) of this AD at the times specified in paragraphs (g)(1) 
and (g)(2) of this AD, as applicable.
    (1) For airplanes having serial numbers 0176 through 0915 
inclusive: Within the compliance times defined in table 1 to 
paragraph (g)(1) of this AD, and thereafter at intervals not to 
exceed the compliance times defined in Airbus Service Bulletin A330-
53-3215, Revision 03, dated January 22, 2018 (``SB A330-53-
3215R3''); or Airbus Service Bulletin A340-53-4215, Revision 02, 
dated November 23, 2016 (``SB A340-53-4215R2''); as applicable, 
depending on airplane utilization and configuration. As of August 
22, 2108 (the effective date of AD 2018-12-08), where paragraph 
1.E., ``Compliance,'' of SB A330-53-3215R3, specifies weight variant 
(WV) 050 in the condition column of table 1, configuration 003, for 
the purposes of this AD, WV060 and WV080 are also included.
[GRAPHIC] [TIFF OMITTED] TR10SE18.004

    (2) For all airplanes except those identified in paragraph 
(g)(1) of this AD: Before exceeding the applicable compliance time 
``threshold'' defined in paragraph 1.E., ``Compliance,'' of SB A330-
53-3215R3 or SB A340-53-4215R2, as applicable, depending on airplane 
utilization and configuration and to be counted from airplane first 
flight, and, thereafter, at intervals not to exceed the compliance 
times specified in paragraph 1.E., ``Compliance,'' of SB A330-53-
3215R3 or SB A340-53-4215R2, as applicable, depending on airplane 
utilization and configuration. Where paragraph 1.E., ``Compliance,'' 
of SB A330-53-3215R3 specifies weight variant WV050 in the condition 
column of table 1, configuration 003, for the purposes of this AD, 
WV060 and WV080 are also included.

(h) Retained Repetitive Inspections and Related Investigative and 
Corrective Actions, With No Changes

    This paragraph restates the requirements of paragraph (h) of AD 
2018-12-08, with no changes. At the applicable compliance time 
specified in paragraph (g) of this AD: Accomplish a special detailed 
inspection of the 10 fastener holes located at FR40 on the lower 
shell panel junction on both left-hand and right-hand sides, in 
accordance with the Accomplishment Instructions of SB A330-53-3215R3 
or SB A340-53-4215R2, as applicable.
    (1) If, during any inspection required by the introductory text 
of paragraph (h) of this AD, any crack is detected, before further 
flight, accomplish all applicable related investigative and 
corrective actions, in accordance with the Accomplishment 
Instructions of SB A330-53-3215R3 or SB A340-53-4215R2, as 
applicable; except, where SB A330-53-3215R3 or SB A340-53-4215R2 
specifies to contact Airbus SAS for repair instructions, and 
specifies that action as ``RC'' (required for compliance), this AD 
requires repair before further flight using a method approved by the 
Manager, International Section, Transport Standards Branch, FAA; or 
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.
    (2) If, during any inspection required by the introductory text 
of paragraph (h) of this AD, the diameter of a fastener hole is 
found to be outside the tolerances of the transition fit as 
specified in SB A330-53-3215R3 or SB A340-53-4215R2, as applicable, 
and SB A330-53-3215R3 or SB A340-53-4215R2 specifies to contact 
Airbus SAS for repair instructions, and specifies that action as RC, 
before further flight, repair using a method approved by the 
Manager, International Section, Transport Standards Branch, FAA; or 
EASA; or Airbus SAS's EASA DOA. If approved by the DOA, the approval 
must include the DOA-authorized signature.
    (3) Accomplishment of corrective actions, as required by 
paragraph (h)(1) of this AD, does not constitute terminating action 
for the repetitive inspections required by the introductory text of 
paragraph (h) of this AD.
    (4) Accomplishment of a repair on an airplane, as required by 
paragraph (h)(2) of this AD, does not constitute terminating action 
for the repetitive inspections required by the introductory text of 
paragraph (h) of this AD for that airplane, unless indicated 
otherwise as specified in the method approved by the Manager, 
International Section, Transport Standards Branch, FAA; or EASA; or 
Airbus SAS's EASA DOA.

[[Page 45554]]

(i) Retained Reporting Provision, With No Changes

    This paragraph restates the provisions of paragraph (i) of AD 
2018-12-08, with no changes. Although SB A330-53-3215R3 and SB A340-
53-4215R2 specify to submit certain information to the manufacturer, 
and specify that action as RC, this AD does not include that 
requirement.

(j) Retained Credit for Previous Actions, With Revised Formatting

    This paragraph restates the provisions of paragraph (j) of AD 
2018-12-08, with a reformatted service bulletin listing. This 
paragraph provides credit for the inspections required by the 
introductory text of paragraph (h) of this AD and the related 
investigative and corrective actions specified by paragraph (h)(1) 
of this AD, if those actions were performed before May 25, 2017 (the 
effective date of AD 2017-07-07), using the applicable service 
information specified in paragraphs (j)(1) through (j)(5) of this 
AD.
    (1) Airbus Service Bulletin A330-53-3215, dated June 21, 2013.
    (2) Airbus Service Bulletin A330-53-3215, Revision 01, dated 
April 17, 2014.
    (3) Airbus Service Bulletin A330-53-3215, Revision 02, dated 
November 23, 2016.
    (4) Airbus Service Bulletin A340-53-4215, dated June 21, 2013.
    (5) Airbus Service Bulletin A340-53-4215, Revision 01, dated 
April 17, 2014.

(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 [email protected]. Before using any 
approved AMOC, notify your appropriate principal inspector, or 
lacking a principal inspector, the manager of the local flight 
standards district office/certificate holding district office.
    (2) Contacting the Manufacturer: As of the effective date of 
this AD, for any requirement in this AD to obtain corrective actions 
from a manufacturer, the action must be accomplished using a method 
approved by the Manager, International Section, Transport Standards 
Branch, FAA; or EASA; or Airbus SAS's EASA DOA. If approved by the 
DOA, the approval must include the DOA-authorized signature.
    (3) Required for Compliance (RC): Except as specified by 
paragraphs (g)(1), (g)(2), (h)(1), (h)(2), and (i) of this AD: If 
any service information contains procedures or tests that are 
identified as RC, those procedures and tests must be done to comply 
with this AD; any procedures or tests that are not identified as RC 
are recommended. Those procedures and tests that are not identified 
as RC may be deviated from using accepted methods in accordance with 
the operator's maintenance or inspection program without obtaining 
approval of an AMOC, provided the procedures and tests identified as 
RC can be done and the airplane can be put back in an airworthy 
condition. Any substitutions or changes to procedures or tests 
identified as RC require approval of an AMOC.

(l) Related Information

    (1) Refer to Mandatory Continuing Airworthiness Information 
(MCAI) EASA AD 2017-0063, dated April 12, 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-2018-0789.
    (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; 
telephone and fax: 206-231-3229.
    (3) Service information identified in this AD that is not 
incorporated by reference is available at the addresses specified in 
paragraphs (m)(4) and (m)(5) of this AD.

(m) Material Incorporated by Reference

    (1) The Director of the Federal Register approved the 
incorporation by reference (IBR) of the service information listed 
in this paragraph under 5 U.S.C. 552(a) and 1 CFR part 51.
    (2) You must use this service information as applicable to do 
the actions required by this AD, unless this AD specifies otherwise.
    (3) The following service information was approved for IBR on 
August 22, 2018.
    (i) Airbus Service Bulletin A330-53-3215, Revision 03, dated 
January 22, 2018.
    (ii) Airbus Service Bulletin A340-53-4215, Revision 02, dated 
November 23, 2016.
    (4) For service information identified in this AD, contact 
Airbus SAS, Airworthiness Office--EAL, Rond-Point Emile Dewoitine 
No: 2, 31700 Blagnac Cedex, France; telephone: +33 5 61 93 36 96; 
fax: +33 5 61 93 45 80; email: [email protected]; 
internet: http://www.airbus.com.
    (5) 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.
    (6) You may view this service information that is incorporated 
by reference at the National Archives and Records Administration 
(NARA). For information on the availability of this material at 
NARA, call 202-741-6030, or go to: http://www.archives.gov/federal-register/cfr/ibr-locations.html.

    Issued in Des Moines, Washington, on August 29, 2018.
Jeffrey E. Duven,
Director, System Oversight Division, Aircraft Certification Service.
[FR Doc. 2018-19437 Filed 9-7-18; 8:45 am]
 BILLING CODE 4910-13-P



                                             45550            Federal Register / Vol. 83, No. 175 / Monday, September 10, 2018 / Rules and Regulations

                                             Boeing Alert Requirements Bulletin 737–                 deviations to RC steps, including substeps            DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION
                                             53A1370 RB, dated December 13, 2017.                    and identified figures.
                                                                                                        (ii) Steps not labeled as RC may be                Federal Aviation Administration
                                             (h) Exceptions to Service Information
                                                                                                     deviated from using accepted methods in
                                             Specifications
                                                                                                     accordance with the operator’s maintenance            14 CFR Part 39
                                                (1) For purposes of determining                      or inspection program without obtaining
                                             compliance with the requirements of this AD:                                                                  [Docket No. FAA–2018–0789; Product
                                                                                                     approval of an AMOC, provided the RC steps,
                                             Where Boeing Alert Requirements Bulletin                                                                      Identifier 2018–NM–120–AD; Amendment
                                             737–53A1370 RB, dated December 13, 2017,                including substeps and identified figures, can        39–19395; AD 2018–18–16]
                                             uses the phrase ‘‘the original issue date of            still be done as specified, and the airplane
                                             Requirements Bulletin 737–53A1370 RB,’’                 can be put back in an airworthy condition.            RIN 2120–AA64
                                             this AD requires using ‘‘the effective date of          (j) Related Information
                                             this AD.’’                                                                                                    Airworthiness Directives; Airbus SAS
                                                (2) Where Boeing Alert Requirements                    For more information about this AD,                 Airplanes
                                             Bulletin 737–53A1370 RB, dated December                 contact Galib Abumeri, Aerospace Engineer,
                                             13, 2017, specifies contacting Boeing, this AD                                                                AGENCY:  Federal Aviation
                                                                                                     Airframe Section, Los Angeles ACO Branch,
                                             requires repair using a method approved in              FAA, 3960 Paramount Boulevard, Lakewood,
                                                                                                                                                           Administration (FAA), Department of
                                             accordance with the procedures specified in             CA 90712–4137; phone: 562–627–5324; fax:
                                                                                                                                                           Transportation (DOT).
                                             paragraph (i) of this AD.                               562–627–5210; email: galib.abumeri@faa.gov.           ACTION: Final rule; request for
                                                (3) Where Step 2. of Appendix A of Boeing                                                                  comments.
                                             Alert Requirements Bulletin 737–53A1370                 (k) Material Incorporated by Reference
                                             RB, dated December 13, 2017, specifies                                                                        SUMMARY:    We are superseding
                                                                                                        (1) The Director of the Federal Register
                                             ‘‘Electrically close the door,’’ this AD allows                                                               Airworthiness Directive (AD) 2018–12–
                                             closing the door electrically or manually.              approved the incorporation by reference
                                                                                                     (IBR) of the service information listed in this       08, which applied to certain Airbus SAS
                                                (4) Where Step 6. of Appendix A of Boeing
                                             Alert Requirements Bulletin 737–53A1370                 paragraph under 5 U.S.C. 552(a) and 1 CFR             Model A330–200 and –300 series
                                             RB, dated December 13, 2017, specifies to               part 51.                                              airplanes, and Model A340–212, –213,
                                             ‘‘Cycle the door electrically and make sure it             (2) You must use this service information          –312, and –313 airplanes. AD 2018–12–
                                             operates smoothly,’’ this AD allows cycling             as applicable to do the actions required by           08 required repetitive inspections of
                                             the door electrically or manually and making            this AD, unless the AD specifies otherwise.           certain fastener holes, and related
                                             sure it operates smoothly.                                 (i) Boeing Alert Requirements Bulletin             investigative and corrective actions if
                                             (i) Alternative Methods of Compliance                   737–53A1370 RB, dated December 13, 2017.              necessary. This new AD corrects certain
                                             (AMOCs)                                                    (ii) Reserved.                                     compliance time references. This AD
                                                (1) The Manager, Los Angeles ACO Branch,                (3) For service information identified in          was prompted by a report of cracking at
                                             FAA, has the authority to approve AMOCs                 this AD, contact Boeing Commercial                    fastener holes located at a certain frame
                                             for this AD, if requested using the procedures          Airplanes, Attention: Contractual & Data              (FR) on the lower shell panel junction.
                                             found in 14 CFR 39.19. In accordance with               Services (C&DS), 2600 Westminster Blvd.,              We are issuing this AD to address the
                                             14 CFR 39.19, send your request to your                 MC 110–SK57, Seal Beach, CA 90740–5600;               unsafe condition on these products.
                                             principal inspector or local Flight Standards           telephone 562–797–1717; internet https://             DATES: This AD is effective September
                                             District Office, as appropriate. If sending             www.myboeingfleet.com.                                25, 2018.
                                             information directly to the manager of the                 (4) You may view this service information
                                             certification office, send it to the attention of
                                                                                                                                                             The Director of the Federal Register
                                                                                                     at the FAA, Transport Standards Branch,               approved the incorporation by reference
                                             the person identified in paragraph (j) of this          2200 South 216th St., Des Moines, WA. For
                                             AD. Information may be emailed to: 9-ANM-                                                                     of certain publications listed in this AD
                                                                                                     information on the availability of this               as of August 22, 2018 (83 FR 33821, July
                                             LAACO-AMOC-Requests@faa.gov.
                                                (2) Before using any approved AMOC,                  material at the FAA, call 206–231–3195.               18, 2018).
                                             notify your appropriate principal inspector,               (5) You may view this service information            We must receive comments on this
                                             or lacking a principal inspector, the manager           that is incorporated by reference at the              AD by October 25, 2018.
                                             of the local flight standards district office/          National Archives and Records
                                                                                                     Administration (NARA). For information on             ADDRESSES: You may send comments,
                                             certificate holding district office.
                                                (3) An AMOC that provides an acceptable              the availability of this material at NARA, call       using the procedures found in 14 CFR
                                             level of safety may be used for any repair,             202–741–6030, or go to: http://                       11.43 and 11.45, by any of the following
                                             modification, or alteration required by this            www.archives.gov/federal-register/cfr/ibr-            methods:
                                             AD if it is approved by the Boeing                      locations.html.                                         • Federal eRulemaking Portal: Go to
                                             Commercial Airplanes Organization                                                                             http://www.regulations.gov. Follow the
                                             Designation Authorization (ODA) that has                  Issued in Des Moines, Washington, on                instructions for submitting comments.
                                             been authorized by the Manager, Los Angeles             August 21, 2018.                                        • Fax: 202–493–2251.
                                             ACO Branch, FAA, to make those findings.                James Cashdollar,                                       • Mail: U.S. Department of
                                             To be approved, the repair method,
                                                                                                     Acting Director, System Oversight Division,           Transportation, Docket Operations, M–
                                             modification deviation, or alteration
                                             deviation must meet the certification basis of          Aircraft Certification Service.                       30, West Building Ground Floor, Room
                                             the airplane, and the approval must                     [FR Doc. 2018–18740 Filed 9–7–18; 8:45 am]            W12–140, 1200 New Jersey Avenue SE,
                                             specifically refer to this AD.                          BILLING CODE 4910–13–P                                Washington, DC 20590.
                                                (4) Except as required by paragraph (h) of                                                                   • Hand Delivery: U.S. Department of
                                             this AD: For service information that                                                                         Transportation, Docket Operations, M–
                                             contains steps that are labeled as RC, the                                                                    30, West Building Ground Floor, Room
                                             provisions of paragraphs (i)(4)(i) and (i)(4)(ii)                                                             W12–140, 1200 New Jersey Avenue SE,
                                             of this AD apply.                                                                                             Washington, DC, between 9 a.m. and 5
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                                                (i) The steps labeled as RC, including
                                                                                                                                                           p.m., Monday through Friday, except
                                             substeps under an RC step and any figures
                                             identified in an RC step, must be done to                                                                     Federal holidays.
                                             comply with the AD. If a step or substep is                                                                     For service information identified in
                                             labeled ‘‘RC Exempt,’’ then the RC                                                                            this final rule, contact Airbus SAS,
                                             requirement is removed from that step or                                                                      Airworthiness Office—EAL, Rond-Point
                                             substep. An AMOC is required for any                                                                          Emile Dewoitine No: 2, 31700 Blagnac


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                                                              Federal Register / Vol. 83, No. 175 / Monday, September 10, 2018 / Rules and Regulations                                         45551

                                             Cedex, France; telephone: +33 5 61 93                   apply to certain airplanes (those in                  at this area of the fuselage. These analyses
                                             36 96; fax: +33 5 61 93 45 80; email:                   Configuration 1). All airplanes                       demonstrated that post-mod 55792
                                             airworthiness.A330-A340@airbus.com;                     belonging to affected U.S. operators are              aeroplanes must follow the same
                                                                                                                                                           maintenance program as aeroplanes in
                                             internet: http://www.airbus.com. You                    in Configuration 2 or Configuration 3,
                                                                                                                                                           postmod 55306 and pre-mod 55792
                                             may view this referenced service                        which use only table 1 in the service                 configuration. Consequently, Airbus
                                             information at the FAA, Transport                       bulletins. This AD corrects the service               published SB A330–53–3215 Revision 02 and
                                             Standards Branch, 2200 South 216th St.,                 bulletin table references for the                     SB A340–53–4215 Revision 02 to expand the
                                             Des Moines, WA. For information on the                  compliance times. We have changed                     Effectivity accordingly.
                                             availability of this material at the FAA,               table 1 to paragraph (g)(1) of this AD by                For the reasons described above, this
                                             call 206–231–3195. It is also available                 removing the limitation to ‘‘table 1’’ of             [EASA] AD retains the requirements of EASA
                                             on the internet at http://                              the service bulletins, and instead                    AD 2014–0136, which is superseded, which
                                             www.regulations.gov by searching for                    referring to the compliance times in                  now also apply to aeroplanes in post-mod
                                                                                                                                                           55792 configuration [the applicability
                                             and locating Docket No. FAA–2018–                       ‘‘paragraph 1.E., ‘Compliance,’ ’’ of the
                                                                                                                                                           identifies airplanes in post-mod 44360
                                             0789.                                                   service bulletins.                                    configuration].
                                                                                                        The European Aviation Safety Agency
                                             Examining the AD Docket                                 (EASA), which is the Technical Agent                     AD 2017–07–07 included Model
                                                You may examine the AD docket on                     for the Member States of the European                 A340–211 airplanes in its applicability.
                                             the internet at http://                                 Union, has issued EASA AD 2017–0063,                  Airbus SAS Model A340–211 airplanes
                                             www.regulations.gov by searching for                    dated April 12, 2017 (referred to after               are not identified in the applicability of
                                             and locating Docket No. FAA–2018–                       this as the Mandatory Continuing                      this AD because those airplanes are not
                                             0789; or in person at the Docket                        Airworthiness Information, or ‘‘the                   affected by the identified unsafe
                                             Management Facility between 9 a.m.                      MCAI’’), to correct an unsafe condition               condition. All of those airplanes are in
                                             and 5 p.m., Monday through Friday,                      for certain Airbus SAS Model A330–                    the pre-Airbus SAS modification 44360
                                             except Federal holidays. The AD docket                  200, A330–300, and A340–200 series                    configuration. The MCAI also does not
                                             contains this AD, the regulatory                        airplanes, and Model A340–312 and                     include Model A340–211 airplanes in
                                             evaluation, any comments received, and                  –313 airplanes. The MCAI states:                      its applicability.
                                             other information. The street address for                                                                        The compliance time ranges between
                                                                                                        During full scale fatigue test of the Frame
                                             Docket Operations (telephone 800–647–                                                                         20,000 flight cycles or 65,400 flight
                                                                                                     (FR) 40 to fuselage skin panel junction,
                                             5527) is listed above. Comments will be                 fatigue damage was found. Corrective actions          hours and 20,800 flight cycles or 68,300
                                             available in the AD docket shortly after                consisted of in-service installation of an            flight hours, depending on airplane
                                             receipt.                                                internal reinforcing strap on the related             utilization and configuration. The
                                                                                                     junction, as currently required by DGAC               repetitive inspection interval ranges
                                             FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT:
                                                                                                     [Direction Générale de l’Aviation Civile]           between 14,000 flight cycles or 95,200
                                             Vladimir Ulyanov, Aerospace Engineer,                   France AD 1999–448–126(B), which refers to            flight hours and 24,600 flight cycles or
                                             International Section, Transport                        Airbus Service Bulletin (SB) A340–53–4104             98,700 flight hours, depending on
                                             Standards Branch, FAA, 2200 South                       Revision 02, and [DGAC] AD 2001–070(B),
                                                                                                                                                           airplane utilization and configuration.
                                             216th St., Des Moines, WA 98198;                        which refers to Airbus SB A330–53–3093
                                                                                                     Revision 04; retrofit improvement of internal
                                                                                                                                                              You may examine the MCAI on the
                                             telephone and fax: 206–231–3229.
                                                                                                     reinforcing strap fatigue life through                internet at http://www.regulations.gov
                                             SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION:                                                                                    by searching for and locating Docket No.
                                                                                                     recommended Airbus SB A330–53–3145; and
                                             Discussion                                              introducing a design improvement in                   FAA–2018–0789.
                                                                                                     production through Airbus mod 44360.
                                                We issued AD 2018–12–08,                                After those actions were implemented,              Related Service Information Under 1
                                             Amendment 39–19312 (83 FR 33821,                        cracks were found on both left-hand (LH) and          CFR Part 51
                                             July 18, 2018) (‘‘AD 2018–12–08’’),                     right-hand (RH) sides on internal strap, butt           Airbus SAS has issued Service
                                             which applied to certain Airbus SAS                     strap, keel beam fitting, or forward fitting          Bulletin A330–53–3215, Revision 03,
                                             Model A330–200 and -300 series                          FR40 flange. These findings were made                 dated January 22, 2018; and Service
                                             airplanes, and Model A340–212, –213,                    during embodiment of a FR40 web repair on
                                                                                                     an A330 aeroplane, and during keel beam
                                                                                                                                                           Bulletin A340–53–4215, Revision 02,
                                             –312, and –313 airplanes. AD 2018–12–                                                                         dated November 23, 2016. This service
                                                                                                     replacement on an A340 aeroplane, where
                                             08 was prompted by a report of cracking                 the internal strap was removed and a special          information describes procedures for
                                             at fastener holes located at FR40 on the                detailed inspection (SDI) was performed on            repetitive rototest inspections of certain
                                             lower shell panel junction. AD 2018–                    several holes.                                        fastener holes, and related investigative
                                             12–08 required repetitive inspections of                   This condition, if not detected and                and corrective actions if necessary.
                                             certain fastener holes, and related                     corrected, could affect the structural integrity      These documents are distinct since they
                                             investigative and corrective actions if                 of the centre fuselage of the aeroplane.              apply to different airplane models. This
                                             necessary. We issued AD 2018–12–08 to                      Prompted by these findings, Airbus issued
                                                                                                     SB A330–53–3215 and SB A340–53–4215,
                                                                                                                                                           service information is reasonably
                                             address cracking at FR40 on the lower                                                                         available because the interested parties
                                                                                                     providing inspection instructions.
                                             shell panel junction; such cracking                     Consequently, EASA issued AD 2014–0136                have access to it through their normal
                                             could lead to reduced structural                        [which corresponds to FAA AD 2017–07–07,              course of business or by the means
                                             integrity of the fuselage.                              Amendment 39–18845 (82 FR 18547, April                identified in the ADDRESSES section.
                                                Since we issued AD 2018–12–08, we                    20, 2017) (‘‘AD 2017–07–07’’)] to require
                                             have determined that it is necessary to                 repetitive SDI (rototest) of 10 fastener holes        FAA’s Determination and Requirements
                                             correct certain service bulletin table                  located at the FR40 lower shell panel                 of This AD
                                             references, which provide the                           junction on both LH and RH sides and,                   This product has been approved by
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                                                                                                     depending on findings, accomplishment of
                                             compliance times for the initial                                                                              the aviation authority of another
                                                                                                     applicable corrective action(s).
                                             inspection. Table 1 to paragraph (g)(1) of                 Since that [EASA] AD was issued,                   country, and is approved for operation
                                             AD 2018–12–08 pointed to ‘‘table 1’’ of                 prompted by the results of complementary              in the United States. Pursuant to our
                                             the service information for the initial                 fatigue analyses, it was determined that              bilateral agreement with the State of
                                             compliance time. However, table 2 and                   postmod 55792 aeroplanes could be also                Design Authority, we have been notified
                                             table 3 in the service bulletins also                   affected by crack initiation and propagation          of the unsafe condition described in the


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                                             45552              Federal Register / Vol. 83, No. 175 / Monday, September 10, 2018 / Rules and Regulations

                                             MCAI and service information                                       Comments Invited                                                   amend this AD because of those
                                             referenced above. We are issuing this                                                                                                 comments.
                                             AD because we evaluated all pertinent                                 This AD is a final rule that involves
                                                                                                                requirements affecting flight safety, and                            We will post all comments we
                                             information and determined the unsafe                                                                                                 receive, without change, to http://
                                             condition exists and is likely to exist or                         we did not precede it by notice and
                                                                                                                opportunity for public comment. We                                 www.regulations.gov, including any
                                             develop on other products of the same
                                                                                                                invite you to send any written relevant                            personal information you provide. We
                                             type design.
                                                                                                                data, views, or arguments about this AD.                           will also post a report summarizing each
                                             FAA’s Justification and Determination                                                                                                 substantive verbal contact we receive
                                             of the Effective Date                                              Send your comments to an address
                                                                                                                listed under the ADDRESSES section.                                about this AD.
                                               This AD corrects an error that affects                           Include ‘‘Docket No. FAA–2018–0789;                                Costs of Compliance
                                             compliance for non-U.S.-registered                                 Product Identifier 2018–NM–120–AD’’
                                             airplanes only. Therefore, we find good                            at the beginning of your comments. We                                We estimate that this AD affects 99
                                             cause that notice and opportunity for                                                                                                 airplanes of U.S. registry. This AD adds
                                                                                                                specifically invite comments on the
                                             prior public comment are unnecessary.                                                                                                 no new economic burden. The current
                                                                                                                overall regulatory, economic,
                                             In addition, for the reason stated above,                                                                                             costs for this AD are repeated for the
                                             we find that good cause exists for                                 environmental, and energy aspects of
                                                                                                                this AD. We will consider all comments                             convenience of affected operators, as
                                             making this amendment effective in less                                                                                               follows:
                                             than 30 days.                                                      received by the closing date and may

                                                                                                            ESTIMATED COSTS FOR REQUIRED ACTIONS
                                                                                                                                                                                                       Cost per     Cost on U.S.
                                                                                                     Labor cost                                                                    Parts cost          product       operators

                                             42 work-hours × $85 per hour = $3,570 .....................................................................................                $0              $3,570        $353,430



                                               We estimate the following costs to do                            required based on the results of the                               of determining the number of aircraft
                                             any necessary repairs that would be                                required inspections. We have no way                               that might need these repairs:

                                                                                                         ESTIMATED COSTS OF ON-CONDITION ACTIONS
                                                                                                                                                                                                                      Cost per
                                                                                                                 Labor cost                                                                            Parts cost     product

                                             46 work-hours × $85 per hour = $3,910 .................................................................................................................    $2,358         $6,268



                                             Authority for This Rulemaking                                      Compliance and Airworthiness                                       under the criteria of the Regulatory
                                                Title 49 of the United States Code                              Division, but during this transition                               Flexibility Act.
                                             specifies the FAA’s authority to issue                             period, the Executive Director has
                                                                                                                                                                                   List of Subjects in 14 CFR Part 39
                                             rules on aviation safety. Subtitle I,                              delegated the authority to issue ADs
                                             section 106, describes the authority of                            applicable to transport category                                     Air transportation, Aircraft, Aviation
                                             the FAA Administrator. Subtitle VII:                               airplanes and associated appliances to                             safety, Incorporation by reference,
                                             Aviation Programs, describes in more                               the Director of the System Oversight                               Safety.
                                             detail the scope of the Agency’s                                   Division.
                                                                                                                                                                                   Adoption of the Amendment
                                             authority.                                                         Regulatory Findings
                                                We are issuing this rulemaking under                                                                                                 Accordingly, under the authority
                                                                                                                  We determined that this AD will not                              delegated to me by the Administrator,
                                             the authority described in Subtitle VII,                           have federalism implications under
                                             Part A, Subpart III, Section 44701:                                                                                                   the FAA amends 14 CFR part 39 as
                                                                                                                Executive Order 13132. This AD will                                follows:
                                             ‘‘General requirements.’’ Under that                               not have a substantial direct effect on
                                             section, Congress charges the FAA with                             the States, on the relationship between                            PART 39—AIRWORTHINESS
                                             promoting safe flight of civil aircraft in                         the national government and the States,                            DIRECTIVES
                                             air commerce by prescribing regulations                            or on the distribution of power and
                                             for practices, methods, and procedures                             responsibilities among the various                                 ■ 1. The authority citation for part 39
                                             the Administrator finds necessary for                              levels of government.                                              continues to read as follows:
                                             safety in air commerce. This regulation                              For the reasons discussed above, I
                                             is within the scope of that authority                                                                                                     Authority: 49 U.S.C. 106(g), 40113, 44701.
                                                                                                                certify that this AD:
                                             because it addresses an unsafe condition                             1. Is not a ‘‘significant regulatory                             § 39.13      [Amended]
                                             that is likely to exist or develop on                              action’’ under Executive Order 12866;
                                             products identified in this rulemaking                               2. Is not a ‘‘significant rule’’ under the                       ■ 2. The FAA amends § 39.13 by
                                             action.                                                                                                                               removing airworthiness directive (AD)
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                                                                                                                DOT Regulatory Policies and Procedures
                                                This AD is issued in accordance with                            (44 FR 11034, February 26, 1979);                                  2018–12–08, Amendment 39–19312 (83
                                             authority delegated by the Executive                                 3. Will not affect intrastate aviation in                        FR 33821, July 18, 2018), and adding the
                                             Director, Aircraft Certification Service,                          Alaska; and                                                        following new AD:
                                             as authorized by FAA Order 8000.51C.                                 4. Will not have a significant                                   2018–18–16 Airbus SAS: Amendment 39–
                                             In accordance with that order, issuance                            economic impact, positive or negative,                                 19395; Docket No. FAA–2018–0789;
                                             of ADs is normally a function of the                               on a substantial number of small entities                              Product Identifier 2018–NM–120–AD.



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                                                              Federal Register / Vol. 83, No. 175 / Monday, September 10, 2018 / Rules and Regulations                                           45553

                                             (a) Effective Date                                      (d) Subject                                           1 to paragraph (g)(1) of this AD. Accomplish
                                                This AD is effective September 25, 2018.               Air Transport Association (ATA) of                  the actions required by paragraph (h) of this
                                                                                                     America Code 53, Fuselage.                            AD at the times specified in paragraphs (g)(1)
                                             (b) Affected ADs                                                                                              and (g)(2) of this AD, as applicable.
                                                                                                     (e) Reason                                               (1) For airplanes having serial numbers
                                               This AD replaces AD 2018–12–08,
                                                                                                        This AD was prompted by a report of                0176 through 0915 inclusive: Within the
                                             Amendment 39–19312 (83 FR 33821, July 18,                                                                     compliance times defined in table 1 to
                                                                                                     cracking at fastener holes located at frame
                                             2018) (‘‘AD 2018–12–08’’).                                                                                    paragraph (g)(1) of this AD, and thereafter at
                                                                                                     (FR) 40 on the lower shell panel junction. We
                                             (c) Applicability                                       are issuing this AD to address this cracking,         intervals not to exceed the compliance times
                                                                                                     which could lead to reduced structural                defined in Airbus Service Bulletin A330–53–
                                               This AD applies to the airplanes,                                                                           3215, Revision 03, dated January 22, 2018
                                                                                                     integrity of the fuselage.
                                             certificated in any category, identified in                                                                   (‘‘SB A330–53–3215R3’’); or Airbus Service
                                             paragraphs (c)(1) and (c)(2) of this AD, all            (f) Compliance                                        Bulletin A340–53–4215, Revision 02, dated
                                             manufacturer serial numbers on which                       Comply with this AD within the                     November 23, 2016 (‘‘SB A340–53–4215R2’’);
                                             Airbus SAS Modification 44360 has been                  compliance times specified, unless already            as applicable, depending on airplane
                                             embodied in production.                                 done.                                                 utilization and configuration. As of August
                                               (1) Airbus SAS Model A330–201, –202,                                                                        22, 2108 (the effective date of AD 2018–12–
                                                                                                     (g) Retained Compliance Times for                     08), where paragraph 1.E., ‘‘Compliance,’’ of
                                             –203, –223, –243, –301, –302, –303, –321,               Paragraph (h) of This AD, With Corrected              SB A330–53–3215R3, specifies weight
                                             –322, –323, –341, –342, and –343 airplanes.             Compliance Time Locations                             variant (WV) 050 in the condition column of
                                               (2) Airbus SAS Model A340–212, –213,
                                                                                                        This paragraph restates the requirements of        table 1, configuration 003, for the purposes
                                             –312, and –313 airplanes.                               paragraph (g) of AD 2018–12–08, with                  of this AD, WV060 and WV080 are also
                                                                                                     corrected compliance time locations in table          included.




                                                (2) For all airplanes except those identified        lower shell panel junction on both left-hand          to be outside the tolerances of the transition
                                             in paragraph (g)(1) of this AD: Before                  and right-hand sides, in accordance with the          fit as specified in SB A330–53–3215R3 or SB
                                             exceeding the applicable compliance time                Accomplishment Instructions of SB A330–               A340–53–4215R2, as applicable, and SB
                                             ‘‘threshold’’ defined in paragraph 1.E.,                53–3215R3 or SB A340–53–4215R2, as                    A330–53–3215R3 or SB A340–53–4215R2
                                             ‘‘Compliance,’’ of SB A330–53–3215R3 or SB              applicable.                                           specifies to contact Airbus SAS for repair
                                             A340–53–4215R2, as applicable, depending                   (1) If, during any inspection required by          instructions, and specifies that action as RC,
                                             on airplane utilization and configuration and           the introductory text of paragraph (h) of this        before further flight, repair using a method
                                             to be counted from airplane first flight, and,          AD, any crack is detected, before further             approved by the Manager, International
                                             thereafter, at intervals not to exceed the              flight, accomplish all applicable related             Section, Transport Standards Branch, FAA;
                                             compliance times specified in paragraph 1.E.,           investigative and corrective actions, in              or EASA; or Airbus SAS’s EASA DOA. If
                                             ‘‘Compliance,’’ of SB A330–53–3215R3 or SB              accordance with the Accomplishment                    approved by the DOA, the approval must
                                             A340–53–4215R2, as applicable, depending                Instructions of SB A330–53–3215R3 or SB
                                                                                                                                                           include the DOA-authorized signature.
                                             on airplane utilization and configuration.              A340–53–4215R2, as applicable; except,
                                                                                                                                                              (3) Accomplishment of corrective actions,
                                             Where paragraph 1.E., ‘‘Compliance,’’ of SB             where SB A330–53–3215R3 or SB A340–53–
                                                                                                     4215R2 specifies to contact Airbus SAS for            as required by paragraph (h)(1) of this AD,
                                             A330–53–3215R3 specifies weight variant
                                             WV050 in the condition column of table 1,               repair instructions, and specifies that action        does not constitute terminating action for the
                                             configuration 003, for the purposes of this             as ‘‘RC’’ (required for compliance), this AD          repetitive inspections required by the
                                             AD, WV060 and WV080 are also included.                  requires repair before further flight using a         introductory text of paragraph (h) of this AD.
                                                                                                     method approved by the Manager,                          (4) Accomplishment of a repair on an
                                             (h) Retained Repetitive Inspections and                 International Section, Transport Standards            airplane, as required by paragraph (h)(2) of
                                             Related Investigative and Corrective                    Branch, FAA; or European Aviation Safety              this AD, does not constitute terminating
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                                             Actions, With No Changes                                Agency (EASA); or Airbus SAS’s EASA                   action for the repetitive inspections required
                                               This paragraph restates the requirements of           Design Organization Approval (DOA). If                by the introductory text of paragraph (h) of
                                             paragraph (h) of AD 2018–12–08, with no                 approved by the DOA, the approval must                this AD for that airplane, unless indicated
                                             changes. At the applicable compliance time              include the DOA-authorized signature.                 otherwise as specified in the method
                                             specified in paragraph (g) of this AD:                     (2) If, during any inspection required by          approved by the Manager, International
                                             Accomplish a special detailed inspection of             the introductory text of paragraph (h) of this        Section, Transport Standards Branch, FAA;
                                                                                                                                                                                                            ER10SE18.004</GPH>




                                             the 10 fastener holes located at FR40 on the            AD, the diameter of a fastener hole is found          or EASA; or Airbus SAS’s EASA DOA.



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                                             45554            Federal Register / Vol. 83, No. 175 / Monday, September 10, 2018 / Rules and Regulations

                                             (i) Retained Reporting Provision, With No               be deviated from using accepted methods in            DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION
                                             Changes                                                 accordance with the operator’s maintenance
                                                This paragraph restates the provisions of            or inspection program without obtaining               Federal Aviation Administration
                                             paragraph (i) of AD 2018–12–08, with no                 approval of an AMOC, provided the
                                             changes. Although SB A330–53–3215R3 and                 procedures and tests identified as RC can be          14 CFR Part 71
                                             SB A340–53–4215R2 specify to submit                     done and the airplane can be put back in an
                                             certain information to the manufacturer, and            airworthy condition. Any substitutions or             [Docket No. FAA–2017–1051; Airspace
                                             specify that action as RC, this AD does not             changes to procedures or tests identified as          Docket No. 17–AGL–21]
                                             include that requirement.                               RC require approval of an AMOC.                       RIN 2120–AA66
                                             (j) Retained Credit for Previous Actions,               (l) Related Information
                                             With Revised Formatting                                                                                       Revocation of Class E Airspace;
                                                                                                       (1) Refer to Mandatory Continuing                   Springfield, OH
                                                This paragraph restates the provisions of            Airworthiness Information (MCAI) EASA AD
                                             paragraph (j) of AD 2018–12–08, with a                  2017–0063, dated April 12, 2017, for related          AGENCY:  Federal Aviation
                                             reformatted service bulletin listing. This
                                                                                                     information. This MCAI may be found in the            Administration (FAA), DOT.
                                             paragraph provides credit for the inspections
                                             required by the introductory text of                    AD docket on the internet at http://                  ACTION: Final rule.
                                             paragraph (h) of this AD and the related                www.regulations.gov by searching for and
                                             investigative and corrective actions specified          locating Docket No. FAA–2018–0789.                    SUMMARY:    This action removes Class E
                                             by paragraph (h)(1) of this AD, if those                  (2) For more information about this AD,             airspace areas designated as an
                                             actions were performed before May 25, 2017              contact Vladimir Ulyanov, Aerospace                   extension to a Class D surface area at
                                             (the effective date of AD 2017–07–07), using            Engineer, International Section, Transport            Springfield-Beckley Municipal Airport,
                                             the applicable service information specified            Standards Branch, FAA, 2200 South 216th               Springfield, OH. This action is required
                                             in paragraphs (j)(1) through (j)(5) of this AD.         St., Des Moines, WA 98198; telephone and              as a result of an airspace review, which
                                                (1) Airbus Service Bulletin A330–53–3215,            fax: 206–231–3229.                                    inadvertently overlooked the removal of
                                             dated June 21, 2013.                                      (3) Service information identified in this
                                                (2) Airbus Service Bulletin A330–53–3215,
                                                                                                                                                           the associated Class E airspace
                                                                                                     AD that is not incorporated by reference is           extensions when the Class D airspace
                                             Revision 01, dated April 17, 2014.                      available at the addresses specified in
                                                (3) Airbus Service Bulletin A330–53–3215,                                                                  was removed.
                                                                                                     paragraphs (m)(4) and (m)(5) of this AD.
                                             Revision 02, dated November 23, 2016.                                                                         DATES: Effective 0901 UTC, November 8,
                                                (4) Airbus Service Bulletin A340–53–4215,            (m) Material Incorporated by Reference                2018. The Director of the Federal
                                             dated June 21, 2013.                                       (1) The Director of the Federal Register           Register approves this incorporation by
                                                (5) Airbus Service Bulletin A340–53–4215,                                                                  reference action under Title 1 Code of
                                                                                                     approved the incorporation by reference
                                             Revision 01, dated April 17, 2014.
                                                                                                     (IBR) of the service information listed in this       Federal Regulations part 51, subject to
                                             (k) Other FAA AD Provisions                             paragraph under 5 U.S.C. 552(a) and 1 CFR             the annual revision of FAA Order
                                                The following provisions also apply to this          part 51.                                              7400.11 and publication of conforming
                                             AD:                                                        (2) You must use this service information          amendments.
                                                (1) Alternative Methods of Compliance                as applicable to do the actions required by           ADDRESSES: FAA Order 7400.11B,
                                             (AMOCs): The Manager, International                     this AD, unless this AD specifies otherwise.          Airspace Designations and Reporting
                                             Section, Transport Standards Branch, FAA,                  (3) The following service information was
                                                                                                                                                           Points, and subsequent amendments can
                                             has the authority to approve AMOCs for this             approved for IBR on August 22, 2018.
                                             AD, if requested using the procedures found                                                                   be viewed online at http://www.faa.gov/
                                                                                                        (i) Airbus Service Bulletin A330–53–3215,
                                             in 14 CFR 39.19. In accordance with 14 CFR              Revision 03, dated January 22, 2018.
                                                                                                                                                           air_traffic/publications/. For further
                                             39.19, send your request to your principal                 (ii) Airbus Service Bulletin A340–53–4215,         information, you can contact the
                                             inspector or local Flight Standards District            Revision 02, dated November 23, 2016.                 Airspace Policy Group, Federal Aviation
                                             Office, as appropriate. If sending information             (4) For service information identified in          Administration, 800 Independence
                                             directly to the International Section, send it          this AD, contact Airbus SAS, Airworthiness            Avenue SW, Washington, DC 20591;
                                             to the attention of the person identified in            Office—EAL, Rond-Point Emile Dewoitine                telephone: (202) 267–8783. The Order is
                                             paragraph (l)(2) of this AD. Information may                                                                  also available for inspection at the
                                                                                                     No: 2, 31700 Blagnac Cedex, France;
                                             be emailed to 9-ANM-116-AMOC-
                                                                                                     telephone: +33 5 61 93 36 96; fax: +33 5 61           National Archives and Records
                                             REQUESTS@faa.gov. Before using any
                                             approved AMOC, notify your appropriate                  93 45 80; email: airworthiness.A330-A340@             Administration (NARA). For
                                             principal inspector, or lacking a principal             airbus.com; internet: http://www.airbus.com.          information on the availability of FAA
                                             inspector, the manager of the local flight                 (5) You may view this service information          Order 7400.11B at NARA, call (202)
                                             standards district office/certificate holding           at the FAA, Transport Standards Branch,               741–6030, or go to https://
                                             district office.                                        2200 South 216th St., Des Moines, WA. For             www.archives.gov/federal-register/cfr/
                                                (2) Contacting the Manufacturer: As of the           information on the availability of this               ibr-locations.html.
                                             effective date of this AD, for any requirement          material at the FAA, call 206–231–3195.                  FAA Order 7400.11, Airspace
                                             in this AD to obtain corrective actions from               (6) You may view this service information          Designations and Reporting Points, is
                                             a manufacturer, the action must be                      that is incorporated by reference at the              published yearly and effective on
                                             accomplished using a method approved by                 National Archives and Records
                                             the Manager, International Section, Transport
                                                                                                                                                           September 15.
                                                                                                     Administration (NARA). For information on
                                             Standards Branch, FAA; or EASA; or Airbus               the availability of this material at NARA, call       FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT:
                                             SAS’s EASA DOA. If approved by the DOA,                 202–741–6030, or go to: http://                       Rebecca Shelby, Federal Aviation
                                             the approval must include the DOA-                      www.archives.gov/federal-register/cfr/ibr-            Administration, Operations Support
                                             authorized signature.                                   locations.html.                                       Group, Central Service Center, 10101
                                                (3) Required for Compliance (RC): Except                                                                   Hillwood Parkway, Fort Worth, TX
                                             as specified by paragraphs (g)(1), (g)(2),                Issued in Des Moines, Washington, on
                                                                                                                                                           76177; telephone (817) 222–5857.
daltland on DSKBBV9HB2PROD with RULES




                                             (h)(1), (h)(2), and (i) of this AD: If any service      August 29, 2018.
                                             information contains procedures or tests that                                                                 SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION:
                                                                                                     Jeffrey E. Duven,
                                             are identified as RC, those procedures and                                                                    Authority for This Rulemaking
                                                                                                     Director, System Oversight Division, Aircraft
                                             tests must be done to comply with this AD;
                                                                                                     Certification Service.                                  The FAA’s authority to issue rules
                                             any procedures or tests that are not identified
                                             as RC are recommended. Those procedures                 [FR Doc. 2018–19437 Filed 9–7–18; 8:45 am]            regarding aviation safety is found in
                                             and tests that are not identified as RC may             BILLING CODE 4910–13–P                                Title 49 of the United States Code.


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Document Created: 2018-09-08 00:43:17
Document Modified: 2018-09-08 00:43:17
CategoryRegulatory Information
CollectionFederal Register
sudoc ClassAE 2.7:
GS 4.107:
AE 2.106:
PublisherOffice of the Federal Register, National Archives and Records Administration
SectionRules and Regulations
ActionFinal rule; request for comments.
DatesThis AD is effective September 25, 2018.
ContactVladimir Ulyanov, Aerospace Engineer, International Section, Transport Standards Branch, FAA, 2200 South 216th St., Des Moines, WA 98198; telephone and fax: 206-231-3229.
FR Citation83 FR 45550 
RIN Number2120-AA64
CFR AssociatedAir Transportation; Aircraft; Aviation Safety; Incorporation by Reference and Safety

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