83 FR 48207 - Airworthiness Directives; Airbus SAS Airplanes

DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION
Federal Aviation Administration

Federal Register Volume 83, Issue 185 (September 24, 2018)

Page Range		48207-48209
FR Document		2018-20346
We are adopting a new airworthiness directive (AD) for all Airbus SAS Model A300 series airplanes. This AD was prompted by a revision of a certain airworthiness limitations item (ALI) document, which specifies new or more restrictive instructions and airworthiness limitations. This AD requires revising the maintenance or inspection program, as applicable, to incorporate new or revised structural inspection requirements. We are issuing this AD to address the unsafe condition on these products.
Federal Register, Volume 83 Issue 185 (Monday, September 24, 2018)
[Federal Register Volume 83, Number 185 (Monday, September 24, 2018)]
[Rules and Regulations]
[Pages 48207-48209]
From the Federal Register Online  [www.thefederalregister.org]
[FR Doc No: 2018-20346]



[[Page 48207]]

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DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION

Federal Aviation Administration

14 CFR Part 39

[Docket No. FAA-2018-0414; Product Identifier 2017-NM-159-AD; Amendment 
39-19417; AD 2018-19-17]
RIN 2120-AA64


Airworthiness Directives; Airbus SAS Airplanes

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

ACTION: Final rule.

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

SUMMARY: We are adopting a new airworthiness directive (AD) for all 
Airbus SAS Model A300 series airplanes. This AD was prompted by a 
revision of a certain airworthiness limitations item (ALI) document, 
which specifies new or more restrictive instructions and airworthiness 
limitations. This AD requires revising the maintenance or inspection 
program, as applicable, to incorporate new or revised structural 
inspection requirements. We are issuing this AD to address the unsafe 
condition on these products.

DATES: This AD is effective October 29, 2018.
    The Director of the Federal Register approved the incorporation by 
reference of a certain publication listed in this AD as of October 29, 
2018.

ADDRESSES: For service information identified in this final rule, 
contact Airbus SAS, Airworthiness Office--EAW, Rond-Point Emile 
Dewoitine No: 2, 31707 Blagnac Cedex, France; telephone +33 5 61 93 36 
96; fax +33 5 61 93 44 51; email [email protected]; 
internet http://www.airbus.com. You may view this service information 
at the FAA, Transport Standards Branch, 2200 South 216th St., Des 
Moines, WA. For information on the availability of this material at the 
FAA, call 206-231-3195. It is also available on the internet at http://www.regulations.gov by searching for and locating Docket No. FAA-2018-
0414.

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-
0414; 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 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: Dan Rodina, Aerospace Engineer, 
International Section, Transport Standards Branch, FAA, 2200 South 
216th St., Des Moines, WA 98198; telephone and fax 206-231-3225.

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 Airbus SAS Model A300 
series airplanes. The NPRM published in the Federal Register on May 25, 
2018 (83 FR 24240). The NPRM was prompted by a revision of a certain 
ALI document, which specifies new or more restrictive instructions and 
airworthiness limitations. The NPRM proposed to require revising the 
maintenance or inspection program, as applicable, to incorporate new or 
revised structural inspection requirements.
    We are issuing this AD to address fatigue cracking, damage, and 
corrosion in principal structural elements; such fatigue cracking, 
damage, and corrosion could result in reduced structural integrity of 
the airplane.
    The European Aviation Safety Agency (EASA), which is the Technical 
Agent for the Member States of the European Union, has issued EASA AD 
2017-0207, dated October 12, 2017 (referred to after this as the 
Mandatory Continuing Airworthiness Information, or ``the MCAI''), to 
correct an unsafe condition for all Airbus SAS Model A300 series 
airplanes. The MCAI states:

    The airworthiness limitations for the Airbus A300 aeroplanes, 
which are approved by EASA, are currently defined and published in 
the Airbus A300 Airworthiness Limitations Section (ALS) documents. 
The Damage Tolerant Airworthiness Limitation Items are specified in 
the A300 ALS Part 2. These instructions have been identified as 
mandatory for continuing airworthiness.
    Failure to accomplish these instructions could result in an 
unsafe condition.
    EASA previously issued [EASA] AD 2015-0115 [which corresponds to 
FAA AD 2017-04-05, Amendment 39-18800 (82 FR 11134, February 21, 
2017) (``AD 2017-04-05'')] to require compliance with the 
maintenance requirements and associated airworthiness limitations 
defined in Airbus A300 ALS Part 2 Revision 02.
    Since that [EASA] AD was issued, new or more restrictive 
maintenance requirements and airworthiness limitations were approved 
by EASA. Consequently, Airbus published Revision 03 of the A300 ALS 
Part 2, compiling all ALS Part 2 changes approved since previous 
Revision 02.
    For the reason described above, this [EASA] AD retains the 
requirements of EASA AD 2015-0115, which is superseded, and requires 
accomplishment of the actions specified in Airbus A300 ALS Part 2 
Revision 03.

    You may examine the MCAI in the AD docket on the internet at http://www.regulations.gov by searching for and locating Docket No. FAA-2018-
0414.

Comments

    We gave the public the opportunity to participate in developing 
this final rule. We have considered the comment received. Laney Azevedo 
stated that he supports the NPRM.

Conclusion

    We reviewed the relevant data, considered the comment received, and 
determined that air safety and the public interest require adopting 
this final rule as proposed, except for 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.

Related Service Information Under 1 CFR Part 51

    Airbus SAS has issued Airbus A300 Airworthiness Limitations Section 
(ALS), Part 2--Damage Tolerant Airworthiness Limitation Items (DT-ALI), 
Revision 03, dated August 28, 2017. This service information describes 
airworthiness limitations applicable to the DT-ALI. 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 6 airplanes of U.S. registry.
    We estimate the following costs to comply with this AD:
    We have determined that revising the maintenance or inspection 
program takes an average of 90 work-hours per operator, although we 
recognize that this number may vary from operator to operator. In the 
past, we have estimated that this action takes 1 work-hour per 
airplane. Since operators incorporate maintenance or inspection program 
changes for their affected fleet(s), we

[[Page 48208]]

have determined that a per-operator estimate is more accurate than a 
per-airplane estimate. Therefore, we estimate the total cost per 
operator to be $7,650 (90 work-hours x $85 per work-hour).

Authority for This Rulemaking

    Title 49 of the United States Code specifies the FAA's authority to 
issue rules on aviation safety. Subtitle I, section 106, describes the 
authority of the FAA Administrator. Subtitle VII: Aviation Programs, 
describes in more detail the scope of the Agency's authority.
    We are issuing this rulemaking under the authority described in 
Subtitle VII, Part A, Subpart III, Section 44701: ``General 
requirements.'' Under that section, Congress charges the FAA with 
promoting safe flight of civil aircraft in air commerce by prescribing 
regulations for practices, methods, and procedures the Administrator 
finds necessary for safety in air commerce. This regulation is within 
the scope of that authority because it addresses an unsafe condition 
that is likely to exist or develop on products identified in this 
rulemaking action.
    This 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

    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 adding the following new airworthiness 
directive (AD):

2018-19-17 Airbus SAS: Amendment 39-19417; Docket No. FAA-2018-0414; 
Product Identifier 2017-NM-159-AD.

(a) Effective Date

    This AD is effective October 29, 2018.

(b) Affected ADs

    This AD affects AD 2017-04-05, Amendment 39-18800 (82 FR 11134, 
February 21, 2017) (``AD 2017-04-05'').

(c) Applicability

    This AD applies to all Airbus SAS Model A300 B2-1A, B2-1C, B2K-
3C, B2-203, B4-2C, B4-103, and B4-203 airplanes, certificated in any 
category.

(d) Subject

    Air Transport Association (ATA) of America Code 05, Time Limits/
Maintenance Checks.

(e) Reason

    This AD was prompted by a revision of a certain airworthiness 
limitations item (ALI) document, which specifies new or more 
restrictive instructions and airworthiness limitations. We are 
issuing this AD to address fatigue cracking, damage, and corrosion 
in principal structural elements; such fatigue cracking, damage, and 
corrosion could result in reduced structural integrity of the 
airplane.

(f) Compliance

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

(g) Maintenance or Inspection Program Revision

    Within 90 days after the effective date of this AD, revise the 
maintenance or inspection program, as applicable, to incorporate the 
information specified in Airbus A300 Airworthiness Limitations 
Section (ALS), Part 2--Damage Tolerant Airworthiness Limitation 
Items (DT-ALI), Revision 03, dated August 28, 2017. The initial 
compliance times for doing the tasks are at the applicable times 
specified in Airbus A300 Airworthiness Limitations Section (ALS), 
Part 2--Damage Tolerant Airworthiness Limitation Items (DT-ALI), 
Revision 03, dated August 28, 2017, or within 90 days after the 
effective date of this AD, whichever occurs later.

(h) No Alternative Actions or Intervals

    After accomplishment of the revision required by paragraph (g) 
of this AD, no alternative actions (e.g., inspections) or intervals, 
may be used unless the actions or intervals are approved as an 
alternative method of compliance (AMOC) in accordance with the 
procedures specified in paragraph (j)(1) of this AD.

(i) Terminating Action

    Accomplishing the action in paragraph (g) of this AD terminates 
the requirements of AD 2017-04-05.

(j) 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 (k)(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: For any requirement in this AD 
to obtain corrective actions from a manufacturer, the action must be 
accomplished using a method approved by the Manager, International 
Section, Transport Standards Branch, FAA; or the European Aviation 
Safety Agency (EASA); or Airbus SAS's EASA Design Organization 
Approval (DOA). If approved by the DOA, the approval must include 
the DOA-authorized signature.

(k) Related Information

    (1) Refer to Mandatory Continuing Airworthiness Information 
(MCAI) EASA AD 2017-0207, dated October 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-2018-0414.
    (2) For more information about this AD, contact Dan Rodina, 
Aerospace Engineer, International Section, Transport Standards 
Branch, FAA, 2200 South 216th St., Des Moines, WA 98198; telephone 
and fax 206-231-3225.

(l) Material Incorporated by Reference

    (1) The Director of the Federal Register approved the 
incorporation by reference

[[Page 48209]]

(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.
    (i) Airbus A300 Airworthiness Limitations Section (ALS), Part 
2--Damage Tolerant Airworthiness Limitation Items (DT-ALI), Revision 
03, dated August 28, 2017. The first page of this document does not 
have a date.
    (ii) Reserved.
    (3) For service information identified in this AD, contact 
Airbus SAS, Airworthiness Office--EAW, Rond-Point Emile Dewoitine 
No: 2, 31707 Blagnac Cedex, France; telephone +33 5 61 93 36 96; fax 
+33 5 61 93 44 51; email [email protected]; internet 
http://www.airbus.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 September 10, 2018.
Michael Kaszycki,
Acting Director, System Oversight Division, Aircraft Certification 
Service.
[FR Doc. 2018-20346 Filed 9-21-18; 8:45 am]
 BILLING CODE 4910-13-P
Federal Register / Vol. 83, No. 185 / Monday, September 24, 2018 / Rules and Regulations 48207

DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION comments received, and other and airworthiness limitations were approved
information. The address for Docket by EASA. Consequently, Airbus published
Federal Aviation Administration Operations (phone: 800–647–5527) is Revision 03 of the A300 ALS Part 2,
U.S. Department of Transportation, compiling all ALS Part 2 changes approved
14 CFR Part 39 since previous Revision 02.
Docket Operations, M–30, West For the reason described above, this
[Docket No. FAA–2018–0414; Product Building Ground Floor, Room W12–140, [EASA] AD retains the requirements of EASA
Identifier 2017–NM–159–AD; Amendment 1200 New Jersey Avenue SE, AD 2015–0115, which is superseded, and
39–19417; AD 2018–19–17] Washington, DC 20590. requires accomplishment of the actions
FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Dan specified in Airbus A300 ALS Part 2 Revision
RIN 2120–AA64 03.
Rodina, Aerospace Engineer,
Airworthiness Directives; Airbus SAS International Section, Transport You may examine the MCAI in the
Airplanes Standards Branch, FAA, 2200 South AD docket on the internet at http://
216th St., Des Moines, WA 98198; www.regulations.gov by searching for
AGENCY: Federal Aviation telephone and fax 206–231–3225. and locating Docket No. FAA–2018–
Administration (FAA), Department of SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: 0414.
Transportation (DOT).
ACTION: Final rule.
Discussion Comments
We issued a notice of proposed We gave the public the opportunity to
SUMMARY: We are adopting a new rulemaking (NPRM) to amend 14 CFR participate in developing this final rule.
airworthiness directive (AD) for all part 39 by adding an AD that would We have considered the comment
Airbus SAS Model A300 series apply to all Airbus SAS Model A300 received. Laney Azevedo stated that he
airplanes. This AD was prompted by a series airplanes. The NPRM published supports the NPRM.
revision of a certain airworthiness in the Federal Register on May 25, 2018
limitations item (ALI) document, which Conclusion
(83 FR 24240). The NPRM was
specifies new or more restrictive prompted by a revision of a certain ALI We reviewed the relevant data,
instructions and airworthiness document, which specifies new or more considered the comment received, and
limitations. This AD requires revising restrictive instructions and determined that air safety and the
the maintenance or inspection program, airworthiness limitations. The NPRM public interest require adopting this
as applicable, to incorporate new or proposed to require revising the final rule as proposed, except for minor
revised structural inspection maintenance or inspection program, as editorial changes. We have determined
requirements. We are issuing this AD to applicable, to incorporate new or that these minor changes:
address the unsafe condition on these revised structural inspection • Are consistent with the intent that
products. requirements. was proposed in the NPRM for
DATES: This AD is effective October 29, We are issuing this AD to address addressing the unsafe condition; and
fatigue cracking, damage, and corrosion • Do not add any additional burden
2018.
in principal structural elements; such upon the public than was already
The Director of the Federal Register
fatigue cracking, damage, and corrosion proposed in the NPRM.
approved the incorporation by reference
of a certain publication listed in this AD could result in reduced structural Related Service Information Under 1
as of October 29, 2018. integrity of the airplane. CFR Part 51
ADDRESSES: For service information
The European Aviation Safety Agency
(EASA), which is the Technical Agent Airbus SAS has issued Airbus A300
identified in this final rule, contact Airworthiness Limitations Section
Airbus SAS, Airworthiness Office— for the Member States of the European
Union, has issued EASA AD 2017–0207, (ALS), Part 2—Damage Tolerant
EAW, Rond-Point Emile Dewoitine No: Airworthiness Limitation Items (DT–
2, 31707 Blagnac Cedex, France; dated October 12, 2017 (referred to after
this as the Mandatory Continuing ALI), Revision 03, dated August 28,
telephone +33 5 61 93 36 96; fax +33 5 2017. This service information describes
61 93 44 51; email account.airworth- Airworthiness Information, or ‘‘the
MCAI’’), to correct an unsafe condition airworthiness limitations applicable to
eas@airbus.com; internet http:// the DT–ALI. This service information is
www.airbus.com. You may view this for all Airbus SAS Model A300 series
airplanes. The MCAI states: reasonably available because the
service information at the FAA, interested parties have access to it
Transport Standards Branch, 2200 The airworthiness limitations for the through their normal course of business
South 216th St., Des Moines, WA. For Airbus A300 aeroplanes, which are approved
or by the means identified in the
information on the availability of this by EASA, are currently defined and
ADDRESSES section.
published in the Airbus A300 Airworthiness
material at the FAA, call 206–231–3195.
Limitations Section (ALS) documents. The Costs of Compliance
It is also available on the internet at Damage Tolerant Airworthiness Limitation
http://www.regulations.gov by searching Items are specified in the A300 ALS Part 2. We estimate that this AD affects 6
for and locating Docket No. FAA–2018– These instructions have been identified as airplanes of U.S. registry.
0414. mandatory for continuing airworthiness. We estimate the following costs to
Failure to accomplish these instructions comply with this AD:
Examining the AD Docket could result in an unsafe condition. We have determined that revising the
You may examine the AD docket on EASA previously issued [EASA] AD 2015– maintenance or inspection program
the internet at http:// 0115 [which corresponds to FAA AD 2017– takes an average of 90 work-hours per
www.regulations.gov by searching for 04–05, Amendment 39–18800 (82 FR 11134, operator, although we recognize that
daltland on DSKBBV9HB2PROD with RULES

and locating Docket No. FAA–2018– February 21, 2017) (‘‘AD 2017–04–05’’)] to this number may vary from operator to
require compliance with the maintenance
0414; or in person at Docket Operations requirements and associated airworthiness
operator. In the past, we have estimated
between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m., Monday limitations defined in Airbus A300 ALS Part that this action takes 1 work-hour per
through Friday, except Federal holidays. 2 Revision 02. airplane. Since operators incorporate
The AD docket contains this final rule, Since that [EASA] AD was issued, new or maintenance or inspection program
the regulatory evaluation, any more restrictive maintenance requirements changes for their affected fleet(s), we

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48208 Federal Register / Vol. 83, No. 185 / Monday, September 24, 2018 / Rules and Regulations

have determined that a per-operator under the criteria of the Regulatory dated August 28, 2017. The initial
estimate is more accurate than a per- Flexibility Act. compliance times for doing the tasks are at
airplane estimate. Therefore, we the applicable times specified in Airbus
List of Subjects in 14 CFR Part 39 A300 Airworthiness Limitations Section
estimate the total cost per operator to be
(ALS), Part 2—Damage Tolerant
$7,650 (90 work-hours × $85 per work- Air transportation, Aircraft, Aviation
Airworthiness Limitation Items (DT–ALI),
hour). safety, Incorporation by reference, Revision 03, dated August 28, 2017, or
Safety. within 90 days after the effective date of this
Authority for This Rulemaking
Adoption of the Amendment AD, whichever occurs later.
Title 49 of the United States Code
Accordingly, under the authority (h) No Alternative Actions or Intervals
specifies the FAA’s authority to issue
rules on aviation safety. Subtitle I, delegated to me by the Administrator, After accomplishment of the revision
section 106, describes the authority of the FAA amends 14 CFR part 39 as required by paragraph (g) of this AD, no
follows: alternative actions (e.g., inspections) or
the FAA Administrator. Subtitle VII: intervals, may be used unless the actions or
Aviation Programs, describes in more intervals are approved as an alternative
detail the scope of the Agency’s PART 39—AIRWORTHINESS
DIRECTIVES method of compliance (AMOC) in
authority. accordance with the procedures specified in
We are issuing this rulemaking under ■ 1. The authority citation for part 39 paragraph (j)(1) of this AD.
the authority described in Subtitle VII, continues to read as follows: (i) Terminating Action
Part A, Subpart III, Section 44701:
‘‘General requirements.’’ Under that Authority: 49 U.S.C. 106(g), 40113, 44701. Accomplishing the action in paragraph (g)
of this AD terminates the requirements of AD
section, Congress charges the FAA with § 39.13 [Amended] 2017–04–05.
promoting safe flight of civil aircraft in
air commerce by prescribing regulations ■ 2. The FAA amends § 39.13 by adding (j) Other FAA AD Provisions
for practices, methods, and procedures the following new airworthiness The following provisions also apply to this
the Administrator finds necessary for directive (AD): AD:
safety in air commerce. This regulation 2018–19–17 Airbus SAS: Amendment 39– (1) Alternative Methods of Compliance
is within the scope of that authority 19417; Docket No. FAA–2018–0414; (AMOCs): The Manager, International
Product Identifier 2017–NM–159–AD. Section, Transport Standards Branch, FAA,
because it addresses an unsafe condition
has the authority to approve AMOCs for this
that is likely to exist or develop on (a) Effective Date AD, if requested using the procedures found
products identified in this rulemaking This AD is effective October 29, 2018. in 14 CFR 39.19. In accordance with 14 CFR
action. 39.19, send your request to your principal
This AD is issued in accordance with (b) Affected ADs inspector or local Flight Standards District
authority delegated by the Executive This AD affects AD 2017–04–05, Office, as appropriate. If sending information
Director, Aircraft Certification Service, Amendment 39–18800 (82 FR 11134, directly to the International Section, send it
as authorized by FAA Order 8000.51C. February 21, 2017) (‘‘AD 2017–04–05’’). to the attention of the person identified in
In accordance with that order, issuance paragraph (k)(2) of this AD. Information may
(c) Applicability be emailed to: 9-ANM-116-AMOC-
of ADs is normally a function of the This AD applies to all Airbus SAS Model REQUESTS@faa.gov. Before using any
Compliance and Airworthiness A300 B2–1A, B2–1C, B2K–3C, B2–203, B4– approved AMOC, notify your appropriate
Division, but during this transition 2C, B4–103, and B4–203 airplanes, principal inspector, or lacking a principal
period, the Executive Director has certificated in any category. inspector, the manager of the local flight
delegated the authority to issue ADs standards district office/certificate holding
(d) Subject district office.
applicable to transport category
airplanes and associated appliances to Air Transport Association (ATA) of (2) Contacting the Manufacturer: For any
the Director of the System Oversight America Code 05, Time Limits/Maintenance requirement in this AD to obtain corrective
Checks. actions from a manufacturer, the action must
Division. be accomplished using a method approved
(e) Reason
Regulatory Findings by the Manager, International Section,
This AD was prompted by a revision of a Transport Standards Branch, FAA; or the
This AD will not have federalism certain airworthiness limitations item (ALI) European Aviation Safety Agency (EASA); or
implications under Executive Order document, which specifies new or more Airbus SAS’s EASA Design Organization
13132. This AD will not have a restrictive instructions and airworthiness Approval (DOA). If approved by the DOA,
substantial direct effect on the States, on limitations. We are issuing this AD to address the approval must include the DOA-
the relationship between the national fatigue cracking, damage, and corrosion in authorized signature.
government and the States, or on the principal structural elements; such fatigue
cracking, damage, and corrosion could result (k) Related Information
distribution of power and (1) Refer to Mandatory Continuing
in reduced structural integrity of the
responsibilities among the various airplane. Airworthiness Information (MCAI) EASA AD
levels of government. 2017–0207, dated October 12, 2017, for
For the reasons discussed above, I (f) Compliance related information. This MCAI may be
certify that this AD: Comply with this AD within the found in the AD docket on the internet at
(1) Is not a ‘‘significant regulatory compliance times specified, unless already http://www.regulations.gov by searching for
action’’ under Executive Order 12866, done. and locating Docket No. FAA–2018–0414.
(2) Is not a ‘‘significant rule’’ under (2) For more information about this AD,
(g) Maintenance or Inspection Program contact Dan Rodina, Aerospace Engineer,
the DOT Regulatory Policies and Revision International Section, Transport Standards
daltland on DSKBBV9HB2PROD with RULES

Procedures (44 FR 11034, February 26,
Within 90 days after the effective date of Branch, FAA, 2200 South 216th St., Des
1979), this AD, revise the maintenance or inspection Moines, WA 98198; telephone and fax 206–
(3) Will not affect intrastate aviation program, as applicable, to incorporate the 231–3225.
in Alaska, and information specified in Airbus A300
(4) Will not have a significant Airworthiness Limitations Section (ALS), (l) Material Incorporated by Reference
economic impact, positive or negative, Part 2—Damage Tolerant Airworthiness (1) The Director of the Federal Register
on a substantial number of small entities Limitation Items (DT–ALI), Revision 03, approved the incorporation by reference

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Federal Register / Vol. 83, No. 185 / Monday, September 24, 2018 / Rules and Regulations 48209

(IBR) of the service information listed in this without affecting safety, existing FAA relies on documents required by
paragraph under 5 U.S.C. 552(a) and 1 CFR quarterly reporting requirements, or other FAA regulations to provide an
part 51. efforts to restore the natural quiet of the accurate count of the number of
(2) You must use this service information park environment. This final rule also commercial air tour flights these
as applicable to do the actions required by
this AD, unless this AD specifies otherwise.
makes several technical amendments. operators conduct. Continuing to
(i) Airbus A300 Airworthiness Limitations DATES: This final rule is effective on require these flight plans constitutes an
Section (ALS), Part 2—Damage Tolerant November 23, 2018. unjustified burden on GCNP SFRA
Airworthiness Limitation Items (DT–ALI), FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: For commercial tour operators because the
Revision 03, dated August 28, 2017. The first technical questions concerning this FAA does not use them for any other
page of this document does not have a date. action, contact Monica Buenrostro, Air purpose.
(ii) Reserved.
Transportation Division, 135 Air Carrier Accordingly, the FAA has determined
(3) For service information identified in that good cause exists to forego notice
this AD, contact Airbus SAS, Airworthiness Operations Branch, AFS–250, Federal
Aviation Administration, 800 and comment under Section
Office—EAW, Rond-Point Emile Dewoitine 553(b)(3)(B) of the Administrative
No: 2, 31707 Blagnac Cedex, France; Independence Avenue SW, Washington,
DC 20591; telephone 202–267–8166; Procedure Act (APA) (5 U.S.C. 551 et
telephone +33 5 61 93 36 96; fax +33 5 61
93 44 51; email account.airworth-eas@ email: Monica.C.Buenrostro@faa.gov. seq.) because it is unnecessary and
airbus.com; internet http://www.airbus.com. contrary to the public interest. Seeking
SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION:
(4) You may view this service information prior comment is unnecessary because,
at the FAA, Transport Standards Branch, Good Cause for Immediate Adoption irrespective of the public response, the
2200 South 216th St., Des Moines, WA. For Section 553(b)(3)(B) of the VFR flight plans would remain
information on the availability of this
Administrative Procedure Act (APA) (5 redundant and obsolete. In addition, it
material at the FAA, call 206–231–3195. would be contrary to the public interest
(5) You may view this service information U.S.C.) authorizes agencies to dispense
with notice and comment procedures to expend resources seeking comment
that is incorporated by reference at the under these circumstances. Considering
National Archives and Records for rules when the agency for ‘‘good
cause’’ finds that those procedures are that there is no way for FAA to use the
Administration (NARA). For information on
required filings for the purpose
the availability of this material at NARA, call ‘‘impracticable, unnecessary, or contrary
202–741–6030, or go to: http:// intended, it would not be a prudent use
to the public interest.’’ Under this
www.archives.gov/federal-register/cfr/ibr- of resources to ask for comment on
section, an agency, upon finding good
locations.html. whether the requirement should remain
cause, may issue a final rule without
in place. Finally, it is unnecessary to
Issued in Des Moines, Washington, on seeking comment prior to the
September 10, 2018. seek public comment on the remaining
rulemaking. The FAA finds good cause
technical amendments in this rule
Michael Kaszycki, to issue this final rule without seeking
because they merely update references
Acting Director, System Oversight Division, prior comment for the reasons explained
to appropriate FAA offices.
Aircraft Certification Service. below.
[FR Doc. 2018–20346 Filed 9–21–18; 8:45 am] FAA regulations limit the number of Authority for This Rulemaking
BILLING CODE 4910–13–P commercial air tours certain operators The FAA’s authority to issue rules on
may conduct over the Grand Canyon. aviation safety is found in title 49 of the
Existing regulations at 14 CFR 93.323 United States Code (U.S.C.). Subtitle I,
DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION require certain operators to file visual sections 106(f) and (g), describe the
flight rule (VFR) flight plans with the authority of the FAA Administrator.
Federal Aviation Administration FAA prior to each commercial Special Subtitle VII of title 49, Aviation
Flight Rules Area operation (commercial Programs, describes in more detail the
14 CFR Part 93 SFRA operation) 1 in the Grand Canyon scope of the agency’s authority. This
[Docket No.: FAA–2018–0851; Amdt. Nos.
National Park Special Flight Rules Area rulemaking is promulgated under the
93–102] (GCNP SFRA), ostensibly so that the general authority described in 49 U.S.C.
FAA can verify the number of 106(f) and 44701 and the specific
RIN 2120–AL22 commercial tours the operator conducts. authority found in Section 3 of Public
The FAA has found VFR flight plans to Law 100–91 (August 18, 1987).
Removal of Flight Plan Requirements be an unreliable method for verifying Section 3 directed the Department of
for Commercial Air Tour Operations compliance, however, and no longer the Interior (DOI) to submit
Within the Special Flight Rules Area at uses them for this purpose. Instead, the recommendations, and the FAA to
Grand Canyon National Park
implement those recommendations,
1 ‘‘Commercial Special Flight Rules Area
AGENCY: Federal Aviation regarding actions necessary for the
Operation means any portion of any flight within
Administration (FAA), Department of the Grand Canyon National Park Special Flight
protection of resources in the Grand
Transportation (DOT). Rules Area that is conducted by a certificate holder Canyon from adverse impacts associated
ACTION: Final rule. that has operations specifications authorizing with aircraft overflights. Congress
flights within the Grand Canyon National Park directed that the recommendations
Special Flight Rules Area. This term does not
SUMMARY: This final rule removes the include operations conducted under an FAA Form
provide for substantial restoration of the
requirement for certificate holders 7711–1, Certificate of Waiver or Authorization. The natural quiet and experience of the park
conducting certain commercial types of flights covered by this definition are set and protection of public health and
operations within the Grand Canyon forth in the ‘‘Las Vegas Flight Standards District safety from adverse effects associated
Office Grand Canyon National Park Special Flight
National Park Special Flight Rules Area with aircraft overflight. Subsequently, in
daltland on DSKBBV9HB2PROD with RULES

Rules Area Procedures Manual’’ which is available
to file a visual flight rules flight plan from the Las Vegas Flight Standards District a 1996 Memorandum for the Heads of
with an FAA Flight Service Station Office.’’ 14 CFR 93.303. The relevant manual is now Executive Departments and Agencies to
prior to each flight. The effect of this known as the ‘‘Grand Canyon National Park Special address the impact of transportation in
Flight Rules Area Procedures Manual’’ and is
action is to remove an unnecessary, available from the Nevada Flight Standards District
national parks, the President directed
redundant, and obsolete paperwork Office, formerly the Las Vegas Flight Standards the Secretary of Transportation to issue
burden on affected certificate holders District Office. regulations for the GCNP that would

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Document Created: 2018-09-22 00:33:29
Document Modified: 2018-09-22 00:33:29
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 29, 2018.
Contact		Dan Rodina, Aerospace Engineer, International Section, Transport Standards Branch, FAA, 2200 South 216th St., Des Moines, WA 98198; telephone and fax 206-231-3225.
FR Citation		83 FR 48207
RIN Number		2120-AA64
CFR Associated		Air Transportation; Aircraft; Aviation Safety; Incorporation by Reference and Safety
83 FR 48207 - Airworthiness Directives; Airbus SAS Airplanes

DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATIONFederal Aviation Administration

Federal Register Volume 83, Issue 185 (September 24, 2018)

DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION
Federal Aviation Administration
