83 FR 46380 - Airworthiness Directives; The Boeing Company Airplanes
DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION
Federal Aviation Administration Federal Register Volume 83, Issue 178 (September 13, 2018)
Federal Aviation Administration
Federal Register Volume 83, Issue 178 (September 13, 2018)
| Page Range | 46380-46384 | |
| FR Document | 2018-19185 |
[Federal Register Volume 83, Number 178 (Thursday, September 13, 2018)] [Rules and Regulations] [Pages 46380-46384] From the Federal Register Online [www.thefederalregister.org] [FR Doc No: 2018-19185] ----------------------------------------------------------------------- DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION Federal Aviation Administration 14 CFR Part 39 [Docket No. FAA-2018-0112; Product Identifier 2017-NM-161-AD; Amendment 39-19392; AD 2018-18-13] RIN 2120-AA64 Airworthiness Directives; The Boeing Company Airplanes AGENCY: Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), DOT. ACTION: Final rule. ----------------------------------------------------------------------- SUMMARY: We are adopting a new airworthiness directive (AD) for all The Boeing Company Model 737-100, -200, -200C, -300, -400, and -500 series airplanes. This AD was prompted by reports of cracking in certain flanges, and the adjacent web, of the wing outboard flap track at certain positions, and a determination that new inspections of certain flap track flanges and webs forward of the rear spar attachment are necessary. This AD requires an inspection to determine the part number of the wing outboard flap track assembly; repetitive inspections of each affected wing outboard flap track for discrepancies, and applicable on-condition actions; and repetitive overhaul of each wing outboard flap track. We are issuing this AD to address the unsafe condition on these products. DATES: This AD is effective October 18, 2018. The Director of the Federal Register approved the incorporation by reference of a certain publication listed in this AD as of October 18, 2018. ADDRESSES: For service information identified in this final rule, contact Boeing Commercial Airplanes, Attention: Contractual & Data Services (C&DS), 2600 Westminster Blvd., MC 110-SK57, Seal Beach, CA 90740-5600; telephone 562-797-1717; internet https://www.myboeingfleet.com. You may view this 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- 0112. 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- 0112; or in person at Docket Operations between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m., Monday through Friday, except Federal holidays. The AD docket contains this final rule, the regulatory evaluation, any comments received, and other information. The address for Docket Operations (phone: 800-647- 5527) is Docket Operations, U.S. Department of Transportation, Docket Operations, M-30, West Building Ground Floor, Room W12-140, 1200 New Jersey Avenue SE, Washington, DC 20590. FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Payman Soltani, Aerospace Engineer, Airframe Section, FAA, Los Angeles ACO Branch, 3960 Paramount Boulevard, Lakewood, CA 90712-4137; phone: 562-627-5313; fax: 562-627- 5210; email: [email protected]. SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: Discussion We issued a notice of proposed rulemaking (NPRM) to amend 14 CFR part 39 by adding an AD that would apply to all The Boeing Company Model [[Page 46381]] 737-100, -200, -200C, -300, -400, and -500 series airplanes. The NPRM published in the Federal Register on February 21, 2018 (83 FR 7425). The NPRM was prompted by reports of cracking in certain flanges, and the adjacent web, of the wing outboard flap track at certain positions, and a determination that new inspections of certain flap track flanges and webs forward of the rear spar attachment are necessary. The NPRM proposed to require an inspection to determine the part number of the wing outboard flap track assembly; repetitive inspections of each affected wing outboard flap track for discrepancies, and applicable on- condition actions; and repetitive overhaul of each wing outboard flap track. We are issuing this AD to detect and correct cracking of the wing outboard flap tracks. Cracking in the area between the forward and rear spar attachments of the wing outboard flap tracks could lead to the inability of a principal structural element to sustain required flight loads, and result in loss of the outboard trailing edge flap and consequent reduced controllability of the airplane. Comments We gave the public the opportunity to participate in developing this final rule. The following presents the comments received on the NPRM and the FAA's response to each comment. Request To Extend the Compliance Time All Nippon Airways (ANA) and Utair Aviation requested that paragraph (h) of the proposed AD be revised to extend the compliance time from 6 months to 18 months after the effective date of the final rule. The commenters are concerned that there are not enough spare flap track parts available. The commenters indicated that overhaul of the removed flap tracks takes significant time, and if the final rule is released without a sufficient number of spare flap tracks available, there could be a long-term aircraft on ground (AOG) situation if the proposed compliance times are used. Furthermore, Utair Aviation stated that a review of maintenance records on 38 airplanes for flap tracks at positions 1 and 8 did not find any records of inspections or overhaul, and it would not be able to replace the subject flap tracks within the compliance time specified in the proposed AD. Utair Aviation also noted that it took 60 days, including shipping, to replace the outboard flap tracks for similar requirements specified in AD 2013-09-02, Amendment 39-17443 (78 FR 27010, May 9, 2013). We do not agree with the commenters' requests. The 6-month compliance time for inspection and overhaul is applicable only to flap tracks that have unknown maintenance records and flap tracks that were last overhauled several years ago. Airplanes with flap tracks that have known maintenance records generally have later compliance times, depending on how long it has been since the flap tracks were overhauled. The NPRM was issued to address findings of stress corrosion cracking in the flap tracks. Stress corrosion cracking is more likely to occur in flap tracks that have been in operation for a longer time. Flap tracks with unknown maintenance records and flap tracks that were last overhauled several years ago are more susceptible to the unsafe condition. The probability of the existence of stress corrosion cracking on flap tracks with unknown maintenance history is higher and warrants the shorter compliance time. We have verified that spare flap tracks are available on the parts surplus market; however, since we do not know how many flap tracks have unknown maintenance records, it is difficult to estimate how many spare flap tracks will be necessary to meet the demand. If there is a critical shortage of parts, operators may contact the FAA and request an adjustment to the compliance time using the procedures specified in paragraph (l) of this AD. We might approve a longer compliance time if additional data are presented that would justify an extension to the compliance time while still maintaining an adequate level of safety. We urge operators to seek out maintenance records for their flap tracks in order to justify use of the extended compliance times specified in Boeing Alert Requirements Bulletin 737-57A1338 RB, dated September 25, 2017. We cannot justify extending the compliance times for flap tracks without maintenance records to 18 months. We have not changed this AD in regard to this issue. Request To Omit Inspection 1 in the Service Information Utair Aviation stated that it is inadvisable to require operators to do the inspections included in ``INSPECTION 1,'' as defined in Boeing Alert Requirements Bulletin 737-57A1338 RB, dated September 25, 2017. The commenter noted that ``ACTION 1'' in Table 1 and Table 2 of paragraph 3, ``Compliance,'' of Boeing Alert Requirements Bulletin 737- 57A1338 RB, dated September 25, 2017, states that operators need to do INSPECTION 1. The commenter suggested that ``ACTION 2,'' overhaul of each affected flap track, would already include all of the inspections included in INSPECTION 1. We infer that the commenter is requesting that the proposed requirement to do the inspections included in INSPECTION 1 of the specified service bulletin be removed from the proposed AD. We do not agree with the commenter's request. ACTION 1 and ACTION 2 have different purposes. The inspections included in ACTION 1 are intended to detect specific existing damage on the flap track, including cracks, nicks, corrosion, galling, broken pieces, and stop drills. The intention of ACTION 2, overhaul of each affected flap track, is a visual examination for defects. The intent of this visual examination during overhaul is to identify additional discrepancies, such as excessive wear or degraded surface finish, that might not be noted during INSPECTION 1. It is important to detect these additional discrepancies since they can be early indicators of stress corrosion cracking. Since the inspections to detect specific existing damage on the flap track are not included in the overhaul instructions, it is necessary to require both ACTION 1 and ACTION 2 in this AD. We have not changed this AD in regard to this issue. Request for Alternative To Overhaul ANA requested that an alternative to overhaul of the flap tracks be provided that does not involve removing the flap tracks from the wing. The commenter suggested that an on-wing inspection could be used instead of the overhaul. The commenter is concerned that there is not a sufficient supply of spare flap track parts. We do not agree with the commenter's request. There is no on-wing inspection method available that can detect the additional discrepancies that overhaul of the flap tracks is designed to address. The concern regarding availability of spare flap track parts was addressed in the response to an earlier comment. We have not changed this AD in regard to this issue. Request To Revise Parts Installation Limitation Paragraph Boeing requested that the Parts Installation Limitation Paragraph, paragraph (k) in the proposed AD, be revised to allow flap tracks to be installed and inspected at the time of installation. Boeing noted that paragraph (k) states ``. . . no person may install a flap track unless the flap track is inspected prior to installation.'' Boeing pointed out that there are several [[Page 46382]] inspections that pertain to the track-to-wing joint, which cannot be accomplished until after the flap track is installed. We agree with the commenter's request for the reasons provided by the commenter. We have revised paragraph (k) of this AD to state ``As of the effective date of this AD, no person may install, on any airplane, a wing outboard flap track having a part number listed in paragraph 1.B. of Boeing Alert Requirements Bulletin 737-57A1338 RB, dated September 25, 2017, unless the inspections . . . are accomplished prior to or concurrently with the part's installation on the airplane.'' Effect of Winglets on Accomplishment of the Proposed Actions Aviation Partners Boeing stated that accomplishing the installation of winglets using Supplemental Type Certificate (STC) ST01219SE does not affect compliance with the actions proposed in the NPRM. We concur with the commenter. We have redesignated paragraph (c) of the proposed AD as paragraph (c)(1) of this AD and added paragraph (c)(2) to this AD to state that installation of STC ST01219SE does not affect the ability to accomplish the actions required by this AD. Therefore, for airplanes on which STC ST01219SE is installed, a ``change in product'' alternative method of compliance (AMOC) approval request is not necessary to comply with the requirements of 14 CFR 39.17. Additional Change to This AD The proposed AD included Note 1 to paragraph (h), which stated that guidance for accomplishing the proposed actions could be found in Boeing Alert Service Bulletin 737-57A1338, dated September 25, 2017, which is referred to in Boeing Alert Requirements Bulletin 737-57A1338 RB, dated September 25, 2017. Since the proposed AD was published, Boeing has issued Boeing Information Notice 737-57A1338 IN 01, dated October 16, 2017; Boeing Information Notice 737-57A1338 IN 02, dated March 16, 2018; and Boeing Information Notice 737-57A1338 IN 03, dated March 20, 2018. These information notices provide additional guidance material related to Boeing Alert Service Bulletin 737-57A1338, dated September 25, 2017, including clarification of compliance times for spares (not AD compliance times), inspection figures, and the relationship between flap track part numbers and airplanes groups. We have revised Note 1 to paragraph (h) in this AD to include these information notices. Conclusion We reviewed the relevant data, considered the comments received, and determined that air safety and the public interest require adopting this final rule with the changes described previously and minor editorial changes. We have determined that these minor changes:Are consistent with the intent that was proposed in the NPRM for addressing the unsafe condition; and Do not add any additional burden upon the public than was already proposed in the NPRM. We also determined that these changes will not increase the economic burden on any operator or increase the scope of this final rule. Related Service Information Under 1 CFR Part 51 We reviewed Boeing Alert Requirements Bulletin 737-57A1338 RB, dated September 25, 2017. This service information describes procedures for repetitive inspections and repetitive overhaul of the wing outboard flap tracks, and applicable on-condition actions including repair and replacement of the wing outboard flap tracks. This service information is reasonably available because the interested parties have access to it through their normal course of business or by the means identified in the ADDRESSES section. Costs of Compliance We estimate that this AD affects 160 airplanes of U.S. registry. We estimate the following costs to comply with this AD: Estimated Costs for Required Actions -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Action Labor cost Parts cost Cost per product Cost on U.S. operators -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Inspection (positions 1 and 8; 78 work-hours x $85 $0 $6,630 per cycle................. $1,060,800 per cycle. Group 2 and Group 3, configuration per hour = $6,630 per 1). cycle. Inspection (positions 1 and 8; 89 work-hours x $85 0 7,565 per cycle.................. 1,210,400 per cycle. Group 3, configuration 2). per hour = $7,565 per cycle. Inspection (positions 2 and 7; 83 work-hours x $85 0 7,055 per cycle.................. 1,128,800 per cycle. Group 2 and Group 3, configuration per hour = $7,055 per 1). cycle. Inspection (positions 2 and 7; 86 work-hours x $85 0 7,310 per cycle.................. 1,169,600 per cycle. Group 3, configuration 2). per hour = $7,310 per cycle. -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- We have received no definitive data that will enable us to provide cost estimates for the actions for Group 1 airplanes, the repetitive overhaul, or the on-condition actions specified in this AD. 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 [[Page 46383]] the Director of the System Oversight Division. Regulatory Findings 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 DOT Regulatory Policies and Procedures (44 FR 11034, February 26, 1979), (3) Will not affect intrastate aviation in Alaska, and (4) Will not have a significant economic impact, positive or negative, on a substantial number of small entities under the criteria of the Regulatory Flexibility Act. List of Subjects in 14 CFR Part 39 Air transportation, Aircraft, Aviation safety, Incorporation by reference, Safety. Adoption of the Amendment Accordingly, under the authority delegated to me by the Administrator, the FAA amends 14 CFR part 39 as follows: PART 39--AIRWORTHINESS DIRECTIVES 0 1. The authority citation for part 39 continues to read as follows: Authority: 49 U.S.C. 106(g), 40113, 44701. Sec. 39.13 [Amended] 0 2. The FAA amends Sec. 39.13 by adding the following new airworthiness directive (AD): 2018-18-13 The Boeing Company: Amendment 39-19392; Docket No. FAA- 2018-0112; Product Identifier 2017-NM-161-AD. (a) Effective Date This AD is effective October 18, 2018. (b) Affected ADs This AD affects AD 2013-09-02, Amendment 39-17443 (78 FR 27010, May 9, 2013) (``AD 2013-09-02''). (c) Applicability (1) This AD applies to all The Boeing Company Model 737-100, - 200, -200C, -300, -400, and -500 series airplanes, certificated in any category. (2) Installation of Supplemental Type Certificate (STC) ST01219SE (http://rgl.faa.gov/Regulatory_and_Guidance_Library/ rgstc.nsf/0/ebd1cec7b301293e86257cb30045557a/$FILE/ST01219SE.pdf) does not affect the ability to accomplish the actions required by this AD. Therefore, for airplanes on which STC ST01219SE is installed, a ``change in product'' alternative method of compliance (AMOC) approval request is not necessary to comply with the requirements of 14 CFR 39.17. (d) Subject Air Transport Association (ATA) of America Code 57, Wings. (e) Unsafe Condition This AD was prompted by reports of cracking in certain flanges, and the adjacent web, of the wing outboard flap track at certain positions, and a determination that new inspections of certain flap track flanges and webs forward of the rear spar attachment are necessary. We are issuing this AD to detect and correct cracking of the wing outboard flap tracks. Cracking in the area between the forward and rear spar attachments of the wing outboard flap tracks could lead to the inability of a principal structural element to sustain required flight loads, and result in loss of the outboard trailing edge flap and consequent reduced controllability of the airplane. (f) Compliance Comply with this AD within the compliance times specified, unless already done. (g) Required Actions for Group 1 Airplanes For airplanes identified as Group 1 in Boeing Alert Requirements Bulletin 737-57A1338 RB, dated September 25, 2017: Within 120 days after the effective date of this AD, do actions to correct the unsafe condition using a method approved in accordance with the procedures specified in paragraph (l) of this AD. (h) Required Actions For airplanes not specified in paragraph (g) of this AD: Except as required by paragraph (i) of this AD, at the applicable times specified in the ``Compliance'' paragraph of Boeing Alert Requirements Bulletin 737-57A1338 RB, dated September 25, 2017, do all applicable actions identified in, and in accordance with, the Accomplishment Instructions of Boeing Alert Requirements Bulletin 737-57A1338 RB, dated September 25, 2017. Note 1 to paragraph (h) of this AD: Guidance for accomplishing the actions required by this AD can be found in Boeing Alert Service Bulletin 737-57A1338, dated September 25, 2017, which is referred to in Boeing Alert Requirements Bulletin 737-57A1338 RB, dated September 25, 2017. Additional guidance can be found in Boeing Information Notice 737-57A1338 IN 01, dated October 16, 2017; Boeing Information Notice 737-57A1338 IN 02, dated March 16, 2018; and Boeing Information Notice 737-57A1338 IN 03, dated March 20, 2018. (i) Exceptions to Service Information Specifications For purposes of determining compliance with the requirements of this AD: Where Boeing Alert Requirements Bulletin 737-57A1338 RB, dated September 25, 2017, uses the phrase ``the original issue date of Requirements Bulletin 737-57A1338 RB,'' this AD requires using ``the effective date of this AD.'' (j) Terminating Action for Requirements of AD 2013-09-02 Accomplishment of the requirements specified in paragraph (h) of this AD terminates all requirements of AD 2013-09-02. (k) Parts Installation Limitation As of the effective date of this AD, no person may install, on any airplane, a wing outboard flap track having a part number listed in paragraph 1.B. of Boeing Alert Requirements Bulletin 737-57A1338 RB, dated September 25, 2017, unless the inspections and corrective actions specified in the Accomplishment Instructions of Boeing Alert Requirements Bulletin 737-57A1338 RB, dated September 25, 2017, are accomplished prior to or concurrently with the part's installation on the airplane. (l) Alternative Methods of Compliance (AMOCs) (1) The Manager, Los Angeles ACO Branch, FAA, has the authority to approve AMOCs for this AD, if requested using the procedures found in 14 CFR 39.19. In accordance with 14 CFR 39.19, send your request to your principal inspector or local Flight Standards District Office, as appropriate. If sending information directly to the manager of the certification office, send it to the attention of the person identified in paragraph (m)(1) of this AD. Information may be emailed to: [email protected]. (2) Before using any approved AMOC, notify your appropriate principal inspector, or lacking a principal inspector, the manager of the local flight standards district office/certificate holding district office. (3) An AMOC that provides an acceptable level of safety may be used for any repair, modification, or alteration required by this AD if it is approved by the Boeing Commercial Airplanes Organization Designation Authorization (ODA) that has been authorized by the Manager, Los Angeles ACO Branch, to make those findings. To be approved, the repair method, modification deviation, or alteration deviation must meet the certification basis of the airplane, and the approval must specifically refer to this AD. (m) Related Information (1) For more information about this AD, contact Payman Soltani, Aerospace Engineer, Airframe Section, FAA, Los Angeles ACO Branch, 3960 Paramount Boulevard, Lakewood, CA 90712 4137; phone: 562-627- 5313; fax: 562-627-5210; email: [email protected]. (2) Service information identified in this AD that is not incorporated by reference is available at the addresses specified in paragraphs (n)(3) and (n)(4) of this AD. (n) Material Incorporated by Reference (1) The Director of the Federal Register approved the incorporation by reference (IBR) of the service information listed in this [[Page 46384]] 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 the AD specifies otherwise. (i) Boeing Alert Requirements Bulletin 737-57A1338 RB, dated September 25, 2017. (ii) Reserved. (3) For service information identified in this AD, contact Boeing Commercial Airplanes, Attention: Contractual & Data Services (C&DS), 2600 Westminster Blvd., MC 110-SK57, Seal Beach, CA 90740 5600; telephone 562-797-1717; internet https://www.myboeingfleet.com. (4) 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. (5) You may view this service information that is incorporated by reference at the National Archives and Records Administration (NARA). For information on the availability of this material at NARA, call 202-741-6030, or go to: http://www.archives.gov/federal-register/cfr/ibr-locations.html. Issued in Des Moines, Washington, on August 24, 2018. James Cashdollar, Acting Director, System Oversight Division, Aircraft Certification Service. [FR Doc. 2018-19185 Filed 9-12-18; 8:45 am] BILLING CODE 4910-13-P
![46380 Federal Register / Vol. 83, No. 178 / Thursday, September 13, 2018 / Rules and Regulations
the single stitched de-icing boots installed on (3) The following service information was and webs forward of the rear spar
the left-hand (LH) and right-hand (RH) approved for IBR on October 18, 2018. attachment are necessary. This AD
horizontal stabilizers with double stitched (i) Saab Service Bulletin 340–30–095, requires an inspection to determine the
de-icing boots and re-identify the LH and RH dated April 3, 2017.
part number of the wing outboard flap
horizontal stabilizer leading edge, in (ii) Reserved.
accordance with the Accomplishment (4) The following service information was track assembly; repetitive inspections of
Instructions of Saab Service Bulletin 340–30– approved for IBR on August 1, 2016 (81 FR each affected wing outboard flap track
095, dated April 3, 2017. 41432, June 27, 2016). for discrepancies, and applicable on-
(i) Saab Service Bulletin 340–30–094, condition actions; and repetitive
(j) Terminating Action for the Requirements dated March 27, 2015. overhaul of each wing outboard flap
of Paragraph (h) of this AD (ii) Saab AFM 340A 001, Revision 57, track. We are issuing this AD to address
Modification of an airplane as required by dated March 27, 2015. the unsafe condition on these products.
paragraph (i) of this AD, constitutes (iii) Saab AFM 340B 001, Revision 35,
DATES: This AD is effective October 18,
terminating action for the repetitive dated March 27, 2015.
inspections required by paragraph (h) of this (iv) Saab AFM 340B 010, Revision 28, 2018.
AD, for that airplane. dated March 27, 2015. The Director of the Federal Register
(5) For service information identified in approved the incorporation by reference
(k) Other FAA AD Provisions this AD, contact Saab AB, Saab Aeronautics, of a certain publication listed in this AD
The following provisions also apply to this SE–581 88, Linköping, Sweden; phone: +46 as of October 18, 2018.
AD: 13 18 5591; fax: +46 13 18 4874; email: ADDRESSES: For service information
(1) Alternative Methods of Compliance saab340techsupport@saabgroup.com; identified in this final rule, contact
(AMOCs): The Manager, International internet: http://www.saabgroup.com.
Boeing Commercial Airplanes,
Section, Transport Standards Branch, FAA, (6) You may view this service information
has the authority to approve AMOCs for this at the FAA, Transport Standards Branch, Attention: Contractual & Data Services
AD, if requested using the procedures found 2200 South 216th St., Des Moines, WA. For (C&DS), 2600 Westminster Blvd., MC
in 14 CFR 39.19. In accordance with 14 CFR information on the availability of this 110–SK57, Seal Beach, CA 90740–5600;
39.19, send your request to your principal material at the FAA, call 206–231–3195. telephone 562–797–1717; internet
inspector or local Flight Standards District (7) You may view this service information https://www.myboeingfleet.com. You
Office, as appropriate. If sending information that is incorporated by reference at the may view this referenced service
directly to the International Section, send it National Archives and Records information at the FAA, Transport
to the attention of the person identified in Administration (NARA). For information on Standards Branch, 2200 South 216th St.,
paragraph (l)(2) of this AD. Information may the availability of this material at NARA, call
Des Moines, WA. For information on the
be emailed to: 9-ANM-116-AMOC- 202–741–6030, or go to: http://
REQUESTS@faa.gov. Before using any www.archives.gov/federal-register/cfr/ibr- availability of this material at the FAA,
approved AMOC, notify your appropriate locations.html. call 206–231–3195. It is also available
principal inspector, or lacking a principal on the internet at http://
inspector, the manager of the local flight Issued in Des Moines, Washington, on www.regulations.gov by searching for
standards district office/certificate holding August 23, 2018. and locating Docket No. FAA–2018–
district office. James Cashdollar, 0112.
(2) Contacting the Manufacturer: As of the Acting Director, System Oversight Division,
effective date of this AD, for any requirement Examining the AD Docket
Aircraft Certification Service.
in this AD to obtain corrective actions from You may examine the AD docket on
[FR Doc. 2018–19748 Filed 9–12–18; 8:45 am]
a manufacturer, the action must be the internet at http://
accomplished using a method approved by BILLING CODE 4910–13–P
the Manager, International Section, Transport
www.regulations.gov by searching for
Standards Branch, FAA; or the European and locating Docket No. FAA–2018–
Aviation Safety Agency (EASA); or Saab AB, DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION 0112; or in person at Docket Operations
Saab Aeronautics’ EASA Design Organization between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m., Monday
Approval (DOA). If approved by the DOA, Federal Aviation Administration through Friday, except Federal holidays.
the approval must include the DOA- The AD docket contains this final rule,
authorized signature 14 CFR Part 39 the regulatory evaluation, any
(l) Related Information comments received, and other
[Docket No. FAA–2018–0112; Product
(1) Refer to Mandatory Continuing Identifier 2017–NM–161–AD; Amendment information. The address for Docket
Airworthiness Information (MCAI) EASA AD 39–19392; AD 2018–18–13] Operations (phone: 800–647–5527) is
2017–0144, dated August 9, 2017, for related Docket Operations, U.S. Department of
information. This MCAI may be found in the RIN 2120–AA64 Transportation, Docket Operations, M–
AD docket on the internet at http:// 30, West Building Ground Floor, Room
www.regulations.gov by searching for and Airworthiness Directives; The Boeing W12–140, 1200 New Jersey Avenue SE,
locating Docket No. FAA–2018–0271. Company Airplanes Washington, DC 20590.
(2) For more information about this AD,
AGENCY: Federal Aviation FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT:
contact Shahram Daneshmandi, Aerospace
Engineer, International Section, Transport Administration (FAA), DOT. Payman Soltani, Aerospace Engineer,
Standards Branch, FAA, 2200 South 216th ACTION: Final rule. Airframe Section, FAA, Los Angeles
St., Des Moines, WA 98198; phone and fax: ACO Branch, 3960 Paramount
206–231–3220. SUMMARY: We are adopting a new Boulevard, Lakewood, CA 90712–4137;
airworthiness directive (AD) for all The phone: 562–627–5313; fax: 562–627–
(m) Material Incorporated by Reference
Boeing Company Model 737–100, –200, 5210; email: payman.soltani@faa.gov.
(1) The Director of the Federal Register –200C, –300, –400, and –500 series
daltland on DSKBBV9HB2PROD with RULES
SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION:
approved the incorporation by reference
airplanes. This AD was prompted by
(IBR) of the service information listed in this Discussion
paragraph under 5 U.S.C. 552(a) and 1 CFR reports of cracking in certain flanges,
part 51. and the adjacent web, of the wing We issued a notice of proposed
(2) You must use this service information outboard flap track at certain positions, rulemaking (NPRM) to amend 14 CFR
as applicable to do the actions required by and a determination that new part 39 by adding an AD that would
this AD, unless this AD specifies otherwise. inspections of certain flap track flanges apply to all The Boeing Company Model
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the Director of the System Oversight Library/rgstc.nsf/0/ebd1cec7b301293e86257 Boeing Alert Requirements Bulletin 737–
Division. cb30045557a/$FILE/ST01219SE.pdf) does 57A1338 RB, dated September 25, 2017, uses
not affect the ability to accomplish the the phrase ‘‘the original issue date of
Regulatory Findings actions required by this AD. Therefore, for Requirements Bulletin 737–57A1338 RB,’’
airplanes on which STC ST01219SE is this AD requires using ‘‘the effective date of
This AD will not have federalism installed, a ‘‘change in product’’ alternative this AD.’’
implications under Executive Order method of compliance (AMOC) approval
13132. This AD will not have a request is not necessary to comply with the (j) Terminating Action for Requirements of
substantial direct effect on the States, on requirements of 14 CFR 39.17. AD 2013–09–02
the relationship between the national Accomplishment of the requirements
(d) Subject specified in paragraph (h) of this AD
government and the States, or on the
distribution of power and Air Transport Association (ATA) of terminates all requirements of AD 2013–09–
America Code 57, Wings. 02.
responsibilities among the various
levels of government. (e) Unsafe Condition (k) Parts Installation Limitation
For the reasons discussed above, I This AD was prompted by reports of As of the effective date of this AD, no
certify that this AD: cracking in certain flanges, and the adjacent person may install, on any airplane, a wing
(1) Is not a ‘‘significant regulatory web, of the wing outboard flap track at outboard flap track having a part number
action’’ under Executive Order 12866, certain positions, and a determination that listed in paragraph 1.B. of Boeing Alert
(2) Is not a ‘‘significant rule’’ under new inspections of certain flap track flanges Requirements Bulletin 737–57A1338 RB,
DOT Regulatory Policies and Procedures and webs forward of the rear spar attachment dated September 25, 2017, unless the
are necessary. We are issuing this AD to inspections and corrective actions specified
(44 FR 11034, February 26, 1979), detect and correct cracking of the wing in the Accomplishment Instructions of
(3) Will not affect intrastate aviation outboard flap tracks. Cracking in the area Boeing Alert Requirements Bulletin 737–
in Alaska, and between the forward and rear spar 57A1338 RB, dated September 25, 2017, are
(4) Will not have a significant attachments of the wing outboard flap tracks accomplished prior to or concurrently with
economic impact, positive or negative, could lead to the inability of a principal the part’s installation on the airplane.
on a substantial number of small entities structural element to sustain required flight
loads, and result in loss of the outboard (l) Alternative Methods of Compliance
under the criteria of the Regulatory
trailing edge flap and consequent reduced (AMOCs)
Flexibility Act.
controllability of the airplane. (1) The Manager, Los Angeles ACO Branch,
List of Subjects in 14 CFR Part 39 (f) Compliance FAA, has the authority to approve AMOCs
for this AD, if requested using the procedures
Air transportation, Aircraft, Aviation Comply with this AD within the found in 14 CFR 39.19. In accordance with
safety, Incorporation by reference, compliance times specified, unless already 14 CFR 39.19, send your request to your
Safety. done. principal inspector or local Flight Standards
Adoption of the Amendment (g) Required Actions for Group 1 Airplanes District Office, as appropriate. If sending
information directly to the manager of the
Accordingly, under the authority For airplanes identified as Group 1 in certification office, send it to the attention of
delegated to me by the Administrator, Boeing Alert Requirements Bulletin 737– the person identified in paragraph (m)(1) of
57A1338 RB, dated September 25, 2017: this AD. Information may be emailed to: 9-
the FAA amends 14 CFR part 39 as Within 120 days after the effective date of
follows: ANM-LAACO-AMOC-Requests@faa.gov.
this AD, do actions to correct the unsafe (2) Before using any approved AMOC,
condition using a method approved in notify your appropriate principal inspector,
PART 39—AIRWORTHINESS accordance with the procedures specified in or lacking a principal inspector, the manager
DIRECTIVES paragraph (l) of this AD. of the local flight standards district office/
■ 1. The authority citation for part 39 (h) Required Actions certificate holding district office.
(3) An AMOC that provides an acceptable
continues to read as follows: For airplanes not specified in paragraph (g) level of safety may be used for any repair,
Authority: 49 U.S.C. 106(g), 40113, 44701. of this AD: Except as required by paragraph modification, or alteration required by this
(i) of this AD, at the applicable times AD if it is approved by the Boeing
§ 39.13 [Amended] specified in the ‘‘Compliance’’ paragraph of Commercial Airplanes Organization
Boeing Alert Requirements Bulletin 737– Designation Authorization (ODA) that has
■ 2. The FAA amends § 39.13 by adding 57A1338 RB, dated September 25, 2017, do been authorized by the Manager, Los Angeles
the following new airworthiness all applicable actions identified in, and in ACO Branch, to make those findings. To be
directive (AD): accordance with, the Accomplishment approved, the repair method, modification
Instructions of Boeing Alert Requirements deviation, or alteration deviation must meet
2018–18–13 The Boeing Company:
Bulletin 737–57A1338 RB, dated September the certification basis of the airplane, and the
Amendment 39–19392; Docket No.
25, 2017. approval must specifically refer to this AD.
FAA–2018–0112; Product Identifier
2017–NM–161–AD. Note 1 to paragraph (h) of this AD:
Guidance for accomplishing the actions (m) Related Information
(a) Effective Date required by this AD can be found in Boeing (1) For more information about this AD,
This AD is effective October 18, 2018. Alert Service Bulletin 737–57A1338, dated contact Payman Soltani, Aerospace Engineer,
September 25, 2017, which is referred to in Airframe Section, FAA, Los Angeles ACO
(b) Affected ADs Boeing Alert Requirements Bulletin 737– Branch, 3960 Paramount Boulevard,
This AD affects AD 2013–09–02, 57A1338 RB, dated September 25, 2017. Lakewood, CA 90712 4137; phone: 562–627–
Amendment 39–17443 (78 FR 27010, May 9, Additional guidance can be found in Boeing 5313; fax: 562–627–5210; email:
2013) (‘‘AD 2013–09–02’’). Information Notice 737–57A1338 IN 01, payman.soltani@faa.gov.
dated October 16, 2017; Boeing Information (2) Service information identified in this
(c) Applicability Notice 737–57A1338 IN 02, dated March 16, AD that is not incorporated by reference is
daltland on DSKBBV9HB2PROD with RULES
(1) This AD applies to all The Boeing 2018; and Boeing Information Notice 737– available at the addresses specified in
Company Model 737–100, –200, –200C, 57A1338 IN 03, dated March 20, 2018. paragraphs (n)(3) and (n)(4) of this AD.
–300, –400, and –500 series airplanes,
certificated in any category. (i) Exceptions to Service Information (n) Material Incorporated by Reference
(2) Installation of Supplemental Type Specifications (1) The Director of the Federal Register
Certificate (STC) ST01219SE (http:// For purposes of determining compliance approved the incorporation by reference
rgl.faa.gov/Regulatory_and_Guidance_ with the requirements of this AD: Where (IBR) of the service information listed in this
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![46384 Federal Register / Vol. 83, No. 178 / Thursday, September 13, 2018 / Rules and Regulations
paragraph under 5 U.S.C. 552(a) and 1 CFR of a certain document listed in this AD the spiral tape. If there is any chafing on
part 51. as of October 18, 2018. the cable, the NPRM proposed to require
(2) You must use this service information replacing the harness. The proposed
ADDRESSES: For service information
as applicable to do the actions required by
identified in this final rule, contact requirements were intended to prevent
this AD, unless the AD specifies otherwise.
(i) Boeing Alert Requirements Bulletin Airbus Helicopters, 2701 N. Forum interference between the lower strobe
737–57A1338 RB, dated September 25, 2017. Drive, Grand Prairie, TX 75052; light electrical harness wiring and the
(ii) Reserved. telephone (972) 641–0000 or (800) 232– helicopter structure, which could result
(3) For service information identified in 0323; fax (972) 641–3775; or at http:// in chafing of an electrical harness
this AD, contact Boeing Commercial www.helicopters.airbus.com/website/ adjacent to the inboard fuel tank vapor
Airplanes, Attention: Contractual & Data en/ref/Technical-Support_73.html. You space, a fuel tank fire, and subsequent
Services (C&DS), 2600 Westminster Blvd., loss of control of the helicopter.
MC 110–SK57, Seal Beach, CA 90740 5600;
may review the referenced service
telephone 562–797–1717; internet https:// information at the FAA, Office of the The NPRM was prompted by AD No.
www.myboeingfleet.com. Regional Counsel, Southwest Region, 2016–0258, dated December 16, 2016,
(4) You may view this service information 10101 Hillwood Pkwy., Room 6N–321, issued by EASA, which is the Technical
at the FAA, Transport Standards Branch, Fort Worth, TX 76177. It is also Agent for the Member States of the
2200 South 216th St., Des Moines, WA. For available on the internet at http:// European Union, to correct an unsafe
information on the availability of this www.regulations.gov by searching for condition for Airbus Helicopters Model
material at the FAA, call 206–231–3195. and locating Docket No. FAA–2018– AS 365 N2 and AS 365 N3 helicopters
(5) You may view this service information
0418. with certain serial numbers and
that is incorporated by reference at the
National Archives and Records configurations. EASA advises of in-
Examining the AD Docket production helicopters with lower
Administration (NARA). For information on
the availability of this material at NARA, call You may examine the AD docket on strobe light wiring harnesses that were
202–741–6030, or go to: http://www.archives. the internet at http:// interfering with either the helicopter
gov/federal-register/cfr/ibr-locations.html. www.regulations.gov by searching for structure or the adjacent fuel tank
Issued in Des Moines, Washington, on and locating Docket No. FAA–2018– support. EASA further states that an
August 24, 2018. 0418; or in person at Docket Operations investigation determined that the
James Cashdollar, between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m., Monday electrical harnesses of these lower
Acting Director, System Oversight Division,
through Friday, except Federal holidays. strobe lights were manufactured with
Aircraft Certification Service. The AD docket contains this AD, the additional length to facilitate removal
[FR Doc. 2018–19185 Filed 9–12–18; 8:45 am]
European Aviation Safety Agency and installation of the lower strobe light
(EASA) AD, any incorporated-by- assembly. However, the additional
BILLING CODE 4910–13–P
reference service information, the length of wiring in the harness was not
economic evaluation, any comments properly secured to the helicopter
DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION received, and other information. The structure. According to EASA, this
street address for Docket Operations could result in chafing of the harness on
Federal Aviation Administration (phone: 800–647–5527) is U.S. the helicopter structure, creating an
Department of Transportation, Docket ignition source adjacent to the inboard
14 CFR Part 39 Operations, M–30, West Building fuel tank vapor space, and result in a
Ground Floor, Room W12–140, 1200 fuel tank fire.
[Docket No. FAA–2018–0418; Product New Jersey Avenue SE, Washington, DC
Identifier 2017–SW–016–AD; Amendment To address this unsafe condition, the
39–19390; AD 2018–18–11]
20590. EASA AD requires installing a cable
FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: mount, inspecting the lower strobe light
RIN 2120–AA64 George Schwab, Aviation Safety electrical harness for damage, and re-
Engineer, Safety Management Section, routing the electrical harness.
Airworthiness Directives; Airbus
Rotorcraft Standards Branch, FAA,
Helicopters Comments
10101 Hillwood Pkwy., Fort Worth, TX
AGENCY: Federal Aviation 76177; telephone (817) 222–5110; email We gave the public the opportunity to
Administration (FAA), DOT. george.schwab@faa.gov. participate in developing this AD, but
ACTION: Final rule. SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: we did not receive any comments on the
NPRM.
SUMMARY: We are adopting a new Discussion
airworthiness directive (AD) for Airbus FAA’s Determination
On May 11, 2018, at 83 FR 21964, the
Helicopters Model AS–365N2 and AS Federal Register published our notice of These helicopters have been approved
365 N3 helicopters with a lower strobe proposed rulemaking (NPRM), which by the aviation authority of France and
light installed. This AD requires proposed to amend 14 CFR part 39 by are approved for operation in the United
installing a cable mount, inspecting the adding an AD that would apply to States. Pursuant to our bilateral
lower strobe light wiring harness, and Airbus Helicopters Model AS–365N2 agreement with France, EASA, its
re-routing the wiring harness. This AD and AS 365 N3 helicopters with a lower technical representative, has notified us
was prompted by reports of interference strobe light installed. of the unsafe condition described in the
between the lower strobe light wiring The NPRM proposed to require EASA AD. We are issuing this AD
harness and the helicopter structure. installing a cable mount on the because we evaluated all information
The actions of this AD are intended to helicopter structure and inspecting the provided by EASA and determined the
daltland on DSKBBV9HB2PROD with RULES
prevent an unsafe condition on these lower strobe light electrical harness and unsafe condition exists and is likely to
helicopters. the electrical harness between the cut- exist or develop on other helicopters of
DATES: This AD is effective October 18, off connector and Frame 2000 for torn these same type designs and that air
2018. spiral tape and for any chafing on the safety and the public interest require
The Director of the Federal Register harness cables. If the spiral tape is torn, adopting the AD requirements as
approved the incorporation by reference the NPRM proposed to require replacing proposed.
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Document Created: 2018-09-13 01:01:18
Document Modified: 2018-09-13 01:01:18
| Category | Regulatory Information | |
| Collection | Federal Register | |
| sudoc Class | AE 2.7: GS 4.107: AE 2.106: | |
| Publisher | Office of the Federal Register, National Archives and Records Administration | |
| Section | Rules and Regulations | |
| Action | Final rule. | |
| Dates | This AD is effective October 18, 2018. | |
| Contact | Payman Soltani, Aerospace Engineer, Airframe Section, FAA, Los Angeles ACO Branch, 3960 Paramount Boulevard, Lakewood, CA 90712-4137; phone: 562-627-5313; fax: 562-627- 5210; email: [email protected] | |
| FR Citation | 83 FR 46380 | |
| RIN Number | 2120-AA64 | |
| CFR Associated | Air Transportation; Aircraft; Aviation Safety; Incorporation by Reference and Safety |
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