83 FR 55830 - Airworthiness Directives; Airbus SAS

DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION
Federal Aviation Administration

Federal Register Volume 83, Issue 217 (November 8, 2018)

Page Range		55830-55833
FR Document		2018-24393

We are revising an earlier proposal, which would have applied to certain Airbus SAS Model A318 series airplanes; Model A319 series airplanes; Model A320 series airplanes; and Model A321-111, -112, -131, -211, -212, -213, -231, -232, -251N, -253N, and -271N airplanes. This action revises the notice of proposed rulemaking (NPRM) by including revised restrictive requirements and adding airplanes to the applicability. We are proposing this airworthiness directive (AD) to address the unsafe condition on these products. Since these actions impose an additional burden over those proposed in the NPRM, we are reopening the comment period to allow the public the chance to comment on these proposed changes.

Federal Register, Volume 83 Issue 217 (Thursday, November 8, 2018)

[Federal Register Volume 83, Number 217 (Thursday, November 8, 2018)]
[Proposed Rules]
[Pages 55830-55833]
From the Federal Register Online [www.thefederalregister.org]
[FR Doc No: 2018-24393]

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DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION

Federal Aviation Administration

14 CFR Part 39

[Docket No. FAA-2018-0554; Product Identifier 2018-NM-064-AD]
RIN 2120-AA64

Airworthiness Directives; Airbus SAS

AGENCY: Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), DOT.

ACTION: Supplemental notice of proposed rulemaking (SNPRM); reopening
of comment period.

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SUMMARY: We are revising an earlier proposal, which would have applied
to certain Airbus SAS Model A318 series airplanes; Model A319 series
airplanes; Model A320 series airplanes; and Model A321-111, -112, -131,
-211, -212, -213, -231, -232, -251N, -253N, and -271N airplanes. This
action revises the notice of proposed rulemaking (NPRM) by including
revised restrictive requirements and adding airplanes to the
applicability. We are proposing this airworthiness directive (AD) to
address the unsafe condition on these products. Since these actions
impose an additional burden over those proposed in the NPRM, we are
reopening the comment period to allow the public the chance to comment
on these proposed changes.

DATES: The comment period for the NPRM published in the Federal
Register on July 17, 2018 (83 FR 33159), is reopened.
We must receive comments on this SNPRM by December 24, 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

[[Page 55831]]

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 NPRM, contact Airbus
SAS, Airworthiness Office--EIAS, Rond-Point Emile Dewoitine No: 2,
31700 Blagnac Cedex, France; telephone +33 5 61 93 36 96; fax +33 5 61
93 44 51; email account.airworth-eas@airbus.com; 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.

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-
0554; 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 SNPRM, the regulatory evaluation, any comments received, and other
information. The street address for Docket Operations (phone: 800-647-
5527) is in the ADDRESSES section.

FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Sanjay Ralhan, Aerospace Engineer,
International Section, Transport Standards Branch, FAA, 2200 South
216th St., Des Moines, WA 98198; telephone and fax 206-231-3223.

SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION:

Comments Invited

We invite you to send any written relevant data, views, or
arguments about this proposal. Send your comments to an address listed
under the ADDRESSES section. Include ``Docket No. FAA-2018-0554;
Product Identifier 2018-NM-064-AD'' at the beginning of your comments.
We specifically invite comments on the overall regulatory, economic,
environmental, and energy aspects of this SNPRM. We will consider all
comments received by the closing date and may amend this SNPRM based on
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 SNPRM.

Discussion

We issued an NPRM to amend 14 CFR part 39 by adding an AD that
would apply to certain Airbus SAS Model A318 series airplanes; Model
A319 series airplanes; Model A320 series airplanes; and Model A321-111,
-112, -131, -211, -212, -213, -231, -232, -251N, -253N, and -271N
airplanes. The NPRM published in the Federal Register on July 17, 2018
(83 FR 33159). The NPRM was prompted by a revision of an airworthiness
limitation item (ALI) document, which requires more restrictive
maintenance requirements and airworthiness limitations. The NPRM
proposed to require revising the maintenance or inspection program, as
applicable, to incorporate new maintenance requirements and
airworthiness limitations.

Actions Since the NPRM Was Issued

Since we issued the NPRM, we have determined that new or more
restrictive requirements in revised service information are necessary,
and that the identified unsafe condition also exists or may develop on
Airbus SAS Model A321-251NX, -252N, -252NX, -253NX, -271NX, -272N, and
-272NX airplanes.
The European Aviation Safety Agency (EASA), which is the Technical
Agent for the Member States of the European Union, has issued EASA AD
2018-0180, dated August 27, 2018 (referred to after this as the
Mandatory Continuing Airworthiness Information, or ``the MCAI''), to
correct an unsafe condition for certain Airbus SAS Model A318 series
airplanes; Model A319 series airplanes; Model A320 series airplanes;
and Model A321 series airplanes. The MCAI states:

The airworthiness limitations for the Airbus A320 family
aeroplanes, which are approved by EASA, are currently defined and
published in the A318/A319/A320/A321 ALS [Airworthiness Limitations
Section] document(s). The airworthiness limitations applicable to
the Certification Maintenance Requirements (CMR), which are approved
by EASA, are published in ALS Part 3.
Failure to accomplish these instructions could result in an
unsafe condition.
Previously, EASA issued AD 2017-0168 to require accomplishment
of all maintenance tasks as described in ALS Part 3 at Revision 05.
Since that [EASA] AD was issued, Airbus published the ALS,
including new and/or more restrictive requirements, and new A321
models were certified and added to the Applicability of the ALS.
For the reason described above, this [EASA] AD retains the
requirements of EASA AD 2017-0168, which is superseded, expands the
Applicability and requires accomplishment of the actions specified
in the ALS.

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-
0554.

Related Service Information Under 1 CFR Part 51

Airbus SAS has issued Airbus A318/A319/A320/A321 Airworthiness
Limitations Section (ALS) Part 3, Certification Maintenance
Requirements (CMR), Revision 06, dated June 13, 2018. The service
information describes maintenance instructions and airworthiness
limitations, including updated inspections and intervals, to be
incorporated into the maintenance or inspection program. 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.

Request To Revise Language Regarding Previously Approved Alternative
Methods of Compliance (AMOCs)

Delta Air Lines (DAL) contended that the language used in paragraph
(j)(ii) of the proposed AD is inaccurate. DAL pointed out that the
phrase ``that require incorporation'' in paragraph (j)(ii) of the
proposed AD should be revised to ``that allow incorporation,'' on the
basis that AMOCs do not require alternative actions, but instead allow
them.
We agree with the commenter's request based on the reasons stated.
We have revised paragraph (j)(ii) of this AD to use the word ``allow''
instead of ``require.''

Request To Use Later Revisions of Airbus A318/A319/A320/A321
Airworthiness Limitations Section (ALS) Part 3, Certification
Maintenance Requirements (CMR)

DAL proposed revising paragraph (j)(ii) of the proposed AD to add a
provision that allows the use of corresponding later approved EASA
revisions and variations of the Airbus A318/A319/A320/A321
Airworthiness Limitations Section (ALS) Part 3, Certification
Maintenance Requirements (CMR).
We disagree with the commenters' requests. We cannot use the
phrase, ``or later approved revisions,'' in an AD when referring to the
service information because doing so violates Office of the Federal
Register (OFR) regulations for approval of materials ``incorporated by
reference'' in rules. In general terms, we are required by these OFR
regulations to either publish the service document contents as part of
the actual AD language; or submit the service document to the OFR for
approval as ``referenced'' material, in which case we may only refer to
such material in the text of an AD. The AD may refer to the service
document only

[[Page 55832]]

if the OFR approved it for ``incorporation by reference.'' To allow
operators to use later revisions of the referenced document (issued
after publication of the AD), either we must revise the AD to reference
specific later revisions, or operators must request approval to use
later revisions as an alternative method of compliance (AMOC) with this
AD under the provisions of paragraph (j)(1) of this AD. We have not
changed this AD in this regard.

FAA's Determination and Proposed Requirements of This SNPRM

This product has been approved by the aviation authority of another
country, and is approved for operation in the United States. Pursuant
to our bilateral agreement with the State of Design Authority, we have
been notified of the unsafe condition described in the MCAI and service
information referenced above. We are proposing this AD because we
evaluated all pertinent information and determined an unsafe condition
exists and is likely to exist or develop on other products of the same
type design.
This proposed AD would require revising the maintenance or
inspection program to incorporate new or revised airworthiness
limitation requirements, as specified in Airbus A318/A319/A320/A321
Airworthiness Limitations Section (ALS) Part 3, Certification
Maintenance Requirements (CMR), Revision 06, dated June 13, 2018. The
applicability of this proposed AD would also include Airbus SAS Model
A321-251NX, -252N, -252NX, -253NX, -271NX, -272N, and -272NX airplanes.
Certain changes described above expand the scope of the NPRM. As a
result, we have determined that it is necessary to reopen the comment
period to provide additional opportunity for the public to comment on
this SNPRM.

Costs of Compliance

We estimate that this proposed AD affects 1,250 airplanes of U.S.
registry. We estimate the following costs to comply with this proposed
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 have determined that a per-
operator estimate is more accurate than a per-airplane estimate.
Therefore, we estimate the total cost per operator to be $7,650 (90
work-hours x $85 per work-hour).

Authority for This Rulemaking

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

Regulatory Findings

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

List of Subjects in 14 CFR Part 39

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

The Proposed Amendment

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

PART 39--AIRWORTHINESS DIRECTIVES

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

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

Sec. 39.13 [Amended]

0
2. The FAA amends Sec. 39.13 by adding the following new airworthiness
directive (AD):

Airbus SAS: Docket No. FAA-2018-0554; Product Identifier 2018-NM-
064-AD.

(a) Comments Due Date

We must receive comments by December 24, 2018.

(b) Affected ADs

This AD affects AD 2017-25-04, Amendment 39-19118 (82 FR 58098,
December 11, 2017) (``AD 2017-25-04'').

This AD applies to the Airbus SAS airplanes identified in
paragraphs (c)(1), (c)(2), (c)(3), and (c)(4) of this AD,
certificated in any category, with an original certificate of
airworthiness or original export certificate of airworthiness issued
on or before June 13, 2018.
(1) Model A318-111, -112, -121, and -122 airplanes.
(2) Model A319-111, -112, -113, -114, -115, -131, -132, and -133
airplanes.
(3) Model A320-211, -212, -214, -216, -231, -232, -233, -251N,
and -271N airplanes.
(4) Model A321-111, -112, -131, -211, -212, -213, -231, -232, -
251N, -251NX, -252N, -252NX, -253N, -253NX, -271N, -271NX, -272N,
and -272NX airplanes.

(d) Subject

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

(e) Reason

This AD was prompted by a revision of an airworthiness
limitation item (ALI) document, which requires more restrictive
maintenance requirements and airworthiness limitations. We are
issuing this AD to address a safety-significant latent failure (that
is not annunciated), which, in combination with one or more other
specific failures or events, could result in a hazardous or
catastrophic failure condition.

(f) Compliance

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

[[Page 55833]]

(g) Revision of Maintenance or Inspection Program

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 A318/A319/A320/A321 Airworthiness
Limitations Section (ALS) Part 3, Certification Maintenance
Requirements (CMR), Revision 06, dated June 13, 2018 (``ALS Part 3,
CMR, R6''). The initial compliance time for accomplishing the tasks
specified in ALS Part 3, CMR, R6, is at the applicable time
specified in ALS Part 3, CMR, R6, or within 90 days after the
effective date of this AD, whichever occurs later.

(h) Terminating Actions for AD 2017-25-04

Accomplishing the actions required by paragraph (g) of this AD
terminates all of the requirements of AD 2017-25-04.

(i) No Alternative Actions or Intervals

After the maintenance or inspection program, as applicable, has
been revised as 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.

(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: 9-ANM-116-AMOC-REQUESTS@faa.gov.
(i) 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.
(ii) AMOCs approved previously for AD 2017-25-04, or AD 2014-22-
08, Amendment 39-18013 (79 FR 67042, November 12, 2014), that allow
incorporation of ALS Part 3, CMR, R6, are considered approved as
AMOCs for the corresponding provisions of this AD.
(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.
(3) Required for Compliance (RC): 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.

(k) Related Information

(1) Refer to Mandatory Continuing Airworthiness Information
(MCAI) EASA AD 2018-0180, dated August 27, 2018, 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-2018-0554.
(2) For more information about this AD, contact Sanjay Ralhan,
Aerospace Engineer, International Section, Transport Standards
Branch, FAA, 2200 South 216th St., Des Moines, WA 98198; telephone
and fax 206-231-3223.
(3) For service information identified in this AD, contact
Airbus SAS, Airworthiness Office--EIAS, Rond-Point Emile Dewoitine
No: 2, 31700 Blagnac Cedex, France; telephone +33 5 61 93 36 96; fax
+33 5 61 93 44 51; email account.airworth-eas@airbus.com; internet
http://www.airbus.com. You may view this service information at the
FAA, Transport Standards Branch, 2200 South 216th St., Des Moines,
WA. For information on the availability of this material at the FAA,
call 206-231-3195.

Issued in Des Moines, Washington, on October 30, 2018.
Dionne Palermo,
Acting Director, System Oversight Division, Aircraft Certification
Service.
[FR Doc. 2018-24393 Filed 11-7-18; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE 4910-13-P

55830 Federal Register / Vol. 83, No. 217 / Thursday, November 8, 2018 / Proposed Rules

List of Subjects in 14 CFR Part 39 Alert Requirements Bulletin 737–53A1380 Issued in Des Moines, Washington, on
RB, dated July 18, 2018. October 31, 2018.
Air transportation, Aircraft, Aviation
Dionne Palermo,
safety, Incorporation by reference, (h) Exceptions to Service Information
Acting Director, System Oversight Division,
Safety. Specifications
Aircraft Certification Service.
The Proposed Amendment (1) For purposes of determining
[FR Doc. 2018–24389 Filed 11–7–18; 8:45 am]
compliance with the requirements of this AD:
Accordingly, under the authority Where Boeing Alert Requirements Bulletin BILLING CODE 4910–13–P

delegated to me by the Administrator, 737–53A1380 RB, dated July 18, 2018, uses
the FAA proposes to amend 14 CFR part the phrase ‘‘the original issue date of
39 as follows: Requirements Bulletin 737–53A1380 RB,’’ DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION
this AD requires using ‘‘the effective date of
PART 39—AIRWORTHINESS this AD.’’ Federal Aviation Administration
DIRECTIVES (2) Where Boeing Alert Requirements
Bulletin 737–53A1380 RB, dated July 18, 14 CFR Part 39
■ 1. The authority citation for part 39 2018, specifies contacting Boeing for repair
[Docket No. FAA–2018–0554; Product
continues to read as follows: instructions: This AD requires doing the
Identifier 2018–NM–064–AD]
repair and applicable on-condition actions
Authority: 49 U.S.C. 106(g), 40113, 44701. before further flight using a method approved RIN 2120–AA64
in accordance with the procedures specified
§ 39.13 [Amended]
in paragraph (i) of this AD. Airworthiness Directives; Airbus SAS
■ 2. The FAA amends § 39.13 by adding
the following new airworthiness (i) Alternative Methods of Compliance AGENCY: Federal Aviation
(AMOCs) Administration (FAA), DOT.
directive (AD):
(1) The Manager, Los Angeles ACO Branch, ACTION: Supplemental notice of
The Boeing Company: Docket No. FAA–
FAA, has the authority to approve AMOCs proposed rulemaking (SNPRM);
2018–0959; Product Identifier 2018–
for this AD, if requested using the procedures
NM–123–AD.
found in 14 CFR 39.19. In accordance with
reopening of comment period.
(a) Comments Due Date 14 CFR 39.19, send your request to your We are revising an earlier
SUMMARY:
We must receive comments by December principal inspector or local Flight Standards
proposal, which would have applied to
24, 2018. District Office, as appropriate. If sending
information directly to the manager of the certain Airbus SAS Model A318 series
(b) Affected ADs airplanes; Model A319 series airplanes;
certification office, send it to the attention of
None. the person identified in paragraph (j)(1) of Model A320 series airplanes; and Model
this AD. Information may be emailed to: 9- A321–111, –112, –131, –211, –212,
(c) Applicability ANM-LAACO-AMOC-Requests@faa.gov. –213, –231, –232, –251N, –253N, and
This AD applies to The Boeing Company (2) Before using any approved AMOC, –271N airplanes. This action revises the
Model 737–400 airplanes, certificated in any notify your appropriate principal inspector, notice of proposed rulemaking (NPRM)
category, line numbers 1487 through 3132 or lacking a principal inspector, the managerby including revised restrictive
inclusive. of the local flight standards district office/
requirements and adding airplanes to
certificate holding district office.
(d) Subject the applicability. We are proposing this
(3) An AMOC that provides an acceptable
Air Transport Association (ATA) of level of safety may be used for any repair, airworthiness directive (AD) to address
America Code 53, Fuselage. modification, or alteration required by this the unsafe condition on these products.
AD if it is approved by the Boeing Since these actions impose an
(e) Unsafe Condition
Commercial Airplanes Organization additional burden over those proposed
This AD was prompted by reports of Designation Authorization (ODA) that has in the NPRM, we are reopening the
cracking in the splice plate on the lower sill been authorized by the Manager, Los Angeles comment period to allow the public the
of the overwing emergency exit doors. We are ACO Branch, FAA, to make those findings. chance to comment on these proposed
issuing this AD to address cracking in the To be approved, the repair method,
splice plate, which, if not addressed, could changes.
modification deviation, or alteration
result in the inability of a principal structural DATES: The comment period for the
deviation must meet the certification basis of
element to sustain limit loads and possible the airplane, and the approval must NPRM published in the Federal
rapid decompression of the fuselage. specifically refer to this AD. Register on July 17, 2018 (83 FR 33159),
(f) Compliance is reopened.
(j) Related Information
We must receive comments on this
Comply with this AD within the (1) For more information about this AD,
compliance times specified, unless already
SNPRM by December 24, 2018.
contact James Guo, Aerospace Engineer,
done. ADDRESSES: You may send comments,
Airframe Section, FAA, Los Angeles ACO
Branch, 3960 Paramount Boulevard, using the procedures found in 14 CFR
(g) Required Actions
Lakewood, CA 90712–4137; phone: 562–627– 11.43 and 11.45, by any of the following
Except as specified by paragraph (h) of this methods:
5357; fax: 562–627–5210; email: james.guo@
AD: At the applicable times specified in the • Federal eRulemaking Portal: Go to
faa.gov.
‘‘Compliance’’ paragraph of Boeing Alert
Requirements Bulletin 737–53A1380 RB,
(2) For service information identified in http://www.regulations.gov. Follow the
this AD, contact Boeing Commercial instructions for submitting comments.
dated July 18, 2018, do all applicable actions
identified in, and in accordance with, the
Airplanes, Attention: Contractual & Data • Fax: 202–493–2251.
daltland on DSKBBV9HB2PROD with PROPOSALS

Accomplishment Instructions of Boeing Alert Services (C&DS), 2600 Westminster Blvd., • Mail : U.S. Department of
Requirements Bulletin 737–53A1380 RB, MC 110–SK57, Seal Beach, CA 90740–5600; Transportation, Docket Operations, M–
dated July 18, 2018. telephone 562–797–1717; internet https://
www.myboeingfleet.com. You may view this
30, West Building Ground Floor, Room
Note 1 to paragraph (g) of this AD: referenced service information at the FAA, W12–140, 1200 New Jersey Avenue SE,
Guidance for accomplishing the actions Transport Standards Branch, 2200 South Washington, DC 20590.
required by this AD can be found in Boeing 216th St., Des Moines, WA. For information • Hand Delivery: U.S. Department of
Alert Service Bulletin 737–53A1380, dated on the availability of this material at the Transportation, Docket Operations, M–
July 18, 2018, which is referred to in Boeing FAA, call 206–231–3195. 30, West Building Ground Floor, Room

VerDate Sep<11>2014 16:15 Nov 07, 2018 Jkt 247001 PO 00000 Frm 00006 Fmt 4702 Sfmt 4702 E:\FR\FM\08NOP1.SGM 08NOP1

Federal Register / Vol. 83, No. 217 / Thursday, November 8, 2018 / Proposed Rules 55831

W12–140, 1200 New Jersey Avenue SE, series airplanes; Model A320 series Related Service Information Under 1
Washington, DC, between 9 a.m. and 5 airplanes; and Model A321–111, –112, CFR Part 51
p.m., Monday through Friday, except –131, –211, –212, –213, –231, –232, Airbus SAS has issued Airbus A318/
Federal holidays. –251N, –253N, and –271N airplanes. A319/A320/A321 Airworthiness
For service information identified in The NPRM published in the Federal Limitations Section (ALS) Part 3,
this NPRM, contact Airbus SAS, Register on July 17, 2018 (83 FR 33159). Certification Maintenance Requirements
Airworthiness Office—EIAS, Rond- The NPRM was prompted by a revision (CMR), Revision 06, dated June 13,
Point Emile Dewoitine No: 2, 31700 of an airworthiness limitation item (ALI) 2018. The service information describes
Blagnac Cedex, France; telephone +33 5 document, which requires more
61 93 36 96; fax +33 5 61 93 44 51; email maintenance instructions and
restrictive maintenance requirements airworthiness limitations, including
account.airworth-eas@airbus.com; and airworthiness limitations. The
internet http://www.airbus.com. You updated inspections and intervals, to be
NPRM proposed to require revising the incorporated into the maintenance or
may view this referenced service maintenance or inspection program, as
information at the FAA, Transport inspection program. This service
applicable, to incorporate new information is reasonably available
Standards Branch, 2200 South 216th St., maintenance requirements and
Des Moines, WA. For information on the because the interested parties have
airworthiness limitations. access to it through their normal course
availability of this material at the FAA,
call 206–231–3195. Actions Since the NPRM Was Issued of business or by the means identified
in the ADDRESSES section.
Examining the AD Docket Since we issued the NPRM, we have
determined that new or more restrictive Request To Revise Language Regarding
You may examine the AD docket on requirements in revised service Previously Approved Alternative
the internet at http:// information are necessary, and that the Methods of Compliance (AMOCs)
www.regulations.gov by searching for identified unsafe condition also exists
and locating Docket No. FAA–2018– Delta Air Lines (DAL) contended that
or may develop on Airbus SAS Model the language used in paragraph (j)(ii) of
0554; or in person at Docket Operations A321–251NX, –252N, –252NX, –253NX,
between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m., Monday the proposed AD is inaccurate. DAL
–271NX, –272N, and –272NX airplanes. pointed out that the phrase ‘‘that require
through Friday, except Federal holidays.
The European Aviation Safety Agency incorporation’’ in paragraph (j)(ii) of the
The AD docket contains this SNPRM,
(EASA), which is the Technical Agent proposed AD should be revised to ‘‘that
the regulatory evaluation, any
for the Member States of the European allow incorporation,’’ on the basis that
comments received, and other
Union, has issued EASA AD 2018–0180, AMOCs do not require alternative
information. The street address for
dated August 27, 2018 (referred to after actions, but instead allow them.
Docket Operations (phone: 800–647–
this as the Mandatory Continuing We agree with the commenter’s
5527) is in the ADDRESSES section.
Airworthiness Information, or ‘‘the request based on the reasons stated. We
FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT:
MCAI’’), to correct an unsafe condition have revised paragraph (j)(ii) of this AD
Sanjay Ralhan, Aerospace Engineer, for certain Airbus SAS Model A318
International Section, Transport to use the word ‘‘allow’’ instead of
series airplanes; Model A319 series ‘‘require.’’
Standards Branch, FAA, 2200 South airplanes; Model A320 series airplanes;
216th St., Des Moines, WA 98198; and Model A321 series airplanes. The Request To Use Later Revisions of
telephone and fax 206–231–3223. MCAI states: Airbus A318/A319/A320/A321
SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: Airworthiness Limitations Section
The airworthiness limitations for the
Comments Invited Airbus A320 family aeroplanes, which are (ALS) Part 3, Certification Maintenance
approved by EASA, are currently defined and Requirements (CMR)
We invite you to send any written
published in the A318/A319/A320/A321 DAL proposed revising paragraph
relevant data, views, or arguments about ALS [Airworthiness Limitations Section]
this proposal. Send your comments to (j)(ii) of the proposed AD to add a
document(s). The airworthiness limitations
an address listed under the ADDRESSES provision that allows the use of
applicable to the Certification Maintenance
section. Include ‘‘Docket No. FAA– Requirements (CMR), which are approved by corresponding later approved EASA
2018–0554; Product Identifier 2018– EASA, are published in ALS Part 3. revisions and variations of the Airbus
NM–064–AD’’ at the beginning of your Failure to accomplish these instructions A318/A319/A320/A321 Airworthiness
comments. We specifically invite could result in an unsafe condition. Limitations Section (ALS) Part 3,
comments on the overall regulatory, Previously, EASA issued AD 2017–0168 to Certification Maintenance Requirements
require accomplishment of all maintenance (CMR).
economic, environmental, and energy
tasks as described in ALS Part 3 at Revision We disagree with the commenters’
aspects of this SNPRM. We will 05.
consider all comments received by the requests. We cannot use the phrase, ‘‘or
Since that [EASA] AD was issued, Airbus
closing date and may amend this later approved revisions,’’ in an AD
published the ALS, including new and/or
SNPRM based on those comments. more restrictive requirements, and new A321 when referring to the service
We will post all comments we models were certified and added to the information because doing so violates
receive, without change, to http:// Applicability of the ALS. Office of the Federal Register (OFR)
www.regulations.gov, including any For the reason described above, this regulations for approval of materials
personal information you provide. We [EASA] AD retains the requirements of EASA ‘‘incorporated by reference’’ in rules. In
will also post a report summarizing each AD 2017–0168, which is superseded, general terms, we are required by these
daltland on DSKBBV9HB2PROD with PROPOSALS

expands the Applicability and requires OFR regulations to either publish the
substantive verbal contact we receive
accomplishment of the actions specified in service document contents as part of the
about this SNPRM. the ALS.
actual AD language; or submit the
Discussion You may examine the MCAI in the service document to the OFR for
We issued an NPRM to amend 14 CFR AD docket on the internet at http:// approval as ‘‘referenced’’ material, in
part 39 by adding an AD that would www.regulations.gov by searching for which case we may only refer to such
apply to certain Airbus SAS Model and locating Docket No. FAA–2018– material in the text of an AD. The AD
A318 series airplanes; Model A319 0554. may refer to the service document only

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Federal Register / Vol. 83, No. 217 / Thursday, November 8, 2018 / Proposed Rules 55833

(g) Revision of Maintenance or Inspection with this AD; any procedures or tests that are –233 airplanes. This proposed AD was
Program not identified as RC are recommended. Those prompted by reports of cracks that were
Within 90 days after the effective date of procedures and tests that are not identified found after improperly performed
this AD, revise the maintenance or inspection as RC may be deviated from using accepted
magnetic particle inspections of the
program, as applicable, to incorporate the methods in accordance with the operator’s
maintenance or inspection program without main landing gear (MLG) sliding tubes
information specified in Airbus A318/A319/ were done. This proposed AD would
A320/A321 Airworthiness Limitations obtaining approval of an AMOC, provided
Section (ALS) Part 3, Certification the procedures and tests identified as RC can require instructions for repetitive
Maintenance Requirements (CMR), Revision be done and the airplane can be put back in general visual inspections of the
06, dated June 13, 2018 (‘‘ALS Part 3, CMR, an airworthy condition. Any substitutions or affected parts for cracks and
R6’’). The initial compliance time for changes to procedures or tests identified as replacement if necessary. We are
accomplishing the tasks specified in ALS RC require approval of an AMOC. proposing this AD to address the unsafe
Part 3, CMR, R6, is at the applicable time (k) Related Information condition on these products.
specified in ALS Part 3, CMR, R6, or within DATES: We must receive comments on
90 days after the effective date of this AD, (1) Refer to Mandatory Continuing
whichever occurs later. Airworthiness Information (MCAI) EASA AD this proposed AD by December 24,
2018–0180, dated August 27, 2018, for 2018.
(h) Terminating Actions for AD 2017–25–04 related information. This MCAI may be ADDRESSES: You may send comments,
Accomplishing the actions required by found in the AD docket on the internet at
http://www.regulations.gov by searching for
using the procedures found in 14 CFR
paragraph (g) of this AD terminates all of the
requirements of AD 2017–25–04. and locating Docket No. FAA–2018–0554. 11.43 and 11.45, by any of the following
(2) For more information about this AD, methods:
(i) No Alternative Actions or Intervals contact Sanjay Ralhan, Aerospace Engineer, • Federal eRulemaking Portal: Go to
After the maintenance or inspection International Section, Transport Standards http://www.regulations.gov. Follow the
program, as applicable, has been revised as Branch, FAA, 2200 South 216th St., Des instructions for submitting comments.
required by paragraph (g) of this AD, no Moines, WA 98198; telephone and fax 206– • Fax: 202–493–2251.
alternative actions (e.g., inspections) or 231–3223. • Mail: U.S. Department of
intervals may be used unless the actions or (3) For service information identified in Transportation, Docket Operations, M–
intervals are approved as an alternative this AD, contact Airbus SAS, Airworthiness 30, West Building Ground Floor, Room
method of compliance (AMOC) in Office—EIAS, Rond-Point Emile Dewoitine
W12–140, 1200 New Jersey Avenue SE,
accordance with the procedures specified in No: 2, 31700 Blagnac Cedex, France;
paragraph (j)(1) of this AD. telephone +33 5 61 93 36 96; fax +33 5 61 Washington, DC 20590.
93 44 51; email account.airworth-eas@ • Hand Delivery: Deliver to Mail
(j) Other FAA AD Provisions address above between 9 a.m. and 5
airbus.com; internet http://www.airbus.com.
The following provisions also apply to this You may view this service information at the p.m., Monday through Friday, except
AD: FAA, Transport Standards Branch, 2200 Federal holidays.
(1) Alternative Methods of Compliance South 216th St., Des Moines, WA. For For service information identified in
(AMOCs): The Manager, International information on the availability of this this NPRM, contact Airbus,
Section, Transport Standards Branch, FAA, material at the FAA, call 206–231–3195. Airworthiness Office—EIAS, Rond-
has the authority to approve AMOCs for this
Issued in Des Moines, Washington, on Point Emile Dewoitine No: 2, 31700
AD, if requested using the procedures found
in 14 CFR 39.19. In accordance with 14 CFR October 30, 2018. Blagnac Cedex, France; telephone +33 5
39.19, send your request to your principal Dionne Palermo, 61 93 36 96; fax +33 5 61 93 44 51; email
inspector or local Flight Standards District Acting Director, System Oversight Division, account.airworth-eas@airbus.com;
Office, as appropriate. If sending information Aircraft Certification Service. internet http://www.airbus.com. You
directly to the International Section, send it [FR Doc. 2018–24393 Filed 11–7–18; 8:45 am] may view this service information at the
to the attention of the person identified in FAA, Transport Standards Branch, 2200
BILLING CODE 4910–13–P
paragraph (k)(2) of this AD. Information may South 216th St., Des Moines, WA. For
be emailed to: 9-ANM-116-AMOC- information on the availability of this
REQUESTS@faa.gov.
DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION material at the FAA, call 206–231–3195.
(i) Before using any approved AMOC,
notify your appropriate principal inspector, Examining the AD Docket
or lacking a principal inspector, the manager Federal Aviation Administration
of the local flight standards district office/ You may examine the AD docket on
certificate holding district office. 14 CFR Part 39 the internet at http://
(ii) AMOCs approved previously for AD www.regulations.gov by searching for
[Docket No. FAA–2018–0957; Product
2017–25–04, or AD 2014–22–08, Amendment Identifier 2018–NM–102–AD]
and locating Docket No. FAA–2018–
39–18013 (79 FR 67042, November 12, 2014), 0957; or in person at Docket Operations
that allow incorporation of ALS Part 3, CMR, RIN 2120–AA64 between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m., Monday
R6, are considered approved as AMOCs for through Friday, except Federal holidays.
the corresponding provisions of this AD. Airworthiness Directives; Airbus SAS The AD docket contains this NPRM, the
(2) Contacting the Manufacturer: For any Airplanes
requirement in this AD to obtain corrective
regulatory evaluation, any comments
actions from a manufacturer, the action must AGENCY: Federal Aviation received, and other information. The
be accomplished using a method approved Administration (FAA), DOT. street address for Docket Operations
by the Manager, International Section, ACTION: Notice of proposed rulemaking
(phone: 800–647–5527) is in the
Transport Standards Branch, FAA; or the ADDRESSES section. Comments will be
(NPRM).
daltland on DSKBBV9HB2PROD with PROPOSALS

European Aviation Safety Agency (EASA); or available in the AD docket shortly after
Airbus SAS’s EASA Design Organization SUMMARY: We propose to adopt a new receipt.
Approval (DOA). If approved by the DOA,
airworthiness directive (AD) for all FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT:
the approval must include the DOA-
authorized signature. Airbus SAS Model A318–111, –112, Sanjay Ralhan, Aerospace Engineer,
(3) Required for Compliance (RC): If any –121, and –122 airplanes; Model A319– International Section, Transport
service information contains procedures or 111, –112, –113, –114, –115, –131, –132, Standards Branch, FAA, 2200 South
tests that are identified as RC, those and –133 airplanes; and Model A320– 216th St., Des Moines, WA 98198;
procedures and tests must be done to comply 211, –212, –214, –216, –231, –232, and telephone and fax 206–231–3223.

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Document Created: 2018-11-08 06:22:40
Document Modified: 2018-11-08 06:22:40

Category		Regulatory Information
Collection		Federal Register
sudoc Class		AE 2.7: GS 4.107: AE 2.106:
Publisher		Office of the Federal Register, National Archives and Records Administration
Section		Proposed Rules
Action		Supplemental notice of proposed rulemaking (SNPRM); reopening of comment period.
Dates		The comment period for the NPRM published in the Federal Register on July 17, 2018 (83 FR 33159), is reopened.
Contact		Sanjay Ralhan, Aerospace Engineer, International Section, Transport Standards Branch, FAA, 2200 South 216th St., Des Moines, WA 98198; telephone and fax 206-231-3223.
FR Citation		83 FR 55830
RIN Number		2120-AA64
CFR Associated		Air Transportation; Aircraft; Aviation Safety; Incorporation by Reference and Safety

83 FR 55830 - Airworthiness Directives; Airbus SAS

DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATIONFederal Aviation Administration

Federal Register Volume 83, Issue 217 (November 8, 2018)

DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION
Federal Aviation Administration