83 FR 56699 - Airworthiness Directives; The Boeing Company Airplanes
DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION
Federal Aviation Administration Federal Register Volume 83, Issue 220 (November 14, 2018)
Federal Aviation Administration
Federal Register Volume 83, Issue 220 (November 14, 2018)
| Page Range | 56699-56702 | |
| FR Document | 2018-24684 |
[Federal Register Volume 83, Number 220 (Wednesday, November 14, 2018)] [Rules and Regulations] [Pages 56699-56702] From the Federal Register Online [www.thefederalregister.org] [FR Doc No: 2018-24684] ======================================================================== Rules and Regulations Federal Register ________________________________________________________________________ This section of the FEDERAL REGISTER contains regulatory documents having general applicability and legal effect, most of which are keyed to and codified in the Code of Federal Regulations, which is published under 50 titles pursuant to 44 U.S.C. 1510. The Code of Federal Regulations is sold by the Superintendent of Documents. ======================================================================== Federal Register / Vol. 83, No. 220 / Wednesday, November 14, 2018 / Rules and Regulations [[Page 56699]] DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION Federal Aviation Administration 14 CFR Part 39 [Docket No. FAA-2018-0408; Product Identifier 2017-NM-146-AD; Amendment 39-19495; AD 2018-23-09] RIN 2120-AA64 Airworthiness Directives; The Boeing Company Airplanes AGENCY: Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), DOT. ACTION: Final rule. ----------------------------------------------------------------------- SUMMARY: We are superseding Airworthiness Directive (AD) 2016-13-16, which applied to all The Boeing Company Model 737-600, -700, -700C, - 800, -900, and -900ER series airplanes. AD 2016-13-16 required an inspection or records check to determine if affected horizontal stabilizers are installed, related investigative actions, and, for affected horizontal stabilizers, repetitive inspections for any crack of the horizontal stabilizer rear spar upper chord, and corrective action if necessary. This AD requires retaining the requirements of AD 2016-13-16, with revised service information that clarifies the inspection areas and serial number information of the horizontal stabilizer. This AD was prompted by reports of a manufacturing oversight, in which a supplier omitted the required protective finish on certain bushings installed in the rear spar upper chord on horizontal stabilizers, which could lead to galvanic corrosion and consequent cracking of the rear spar upper chord. We are issuing this AD to address the unsafe condition on these products. DATES: This AD is effective December 19, 2018. The Director of the Federal Register approved the incorporation by reference of a certain publication listed in this AD as of December 19, 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 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- 0408. 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- 0408; 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: Lu Lu, Aerospace Engineer, Airframe Section, FAA, Seattle ACO Branch, 2200 South 216th St., Des Moines, WA 98198; phone and fax: 206-231-3525; email: [email protected]. SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: Discussion We issued a notice of proposed rulemaking (NPRM) to amend 14 CFR part 39 to supersede AD 2016-13-16, Amendment 39-18581 (81 FR 44503, July 8, 2016) (``AD 2016-13-16''). AD 2016-13-16 applied to all The Boeing Company Model 737-600, -700, -700C, -800, -900, and -900ER series airplanes. The NPRM published in the Federal Register on May 15, 2018 (83 FR 22417). The NPRM was prompted by a determination that clarification of inspection areas and serial number information of the horizontal stabilizer is necessary and reports of a manufacturing oversight, in which a supplier omitted the required protective finish on certain bushings installed in the rear spar upper chord on horizontal stabilizers, which could lead to galvanic corrosion and consequent cracking of the rear spar upper chord. The NPRM proposed to continue to require an inspection or records check to determine if affected horizontal stabilizers are installed, related investigative actions, and, for affected horizontal stabilizers, repetitive inspections for any crack of the horizontal stabilizer rear spar upper chord, and corrective action if necessary. The NPRM also proposed to clarify the inspection areas and serial number information of the horizontal stabilizer. We are issuing this AD to address cracking of the rear spar upper chord, which could result in the failure of the upper chord, consequent departure of the horizontal stabilizer from the airplane, and loss of control of the airplane. Comments We gave the public the opportunity to participate in developing this AD. The following presents the comments received on the NPRM and the FAA's response to each comment. Air Line Pilots Association, International (ALPA), Boeing, and United Airlines stated that they supported the NPRM. Effect of Winglets on Accomplishment of the Proposed Actions Aviation Partners Boeing stated that accomplishing the supplemental type certificate (STC) ST00830SE does not affect the actions specified 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 ST00830SE does not affect the ability to accomplish the actions required by this AD. Therefore, for airplanes on which STC ST00830SE 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. Request To Review Parts Installation Limitations Paragraph Southwest Airlines (SWA) requested that we review the ``Parts Installation Limitation'' paragraph in the proposed AD. SWA stated that Boeing Alert Service Bulletin 737-55A1097, Revision [[Page 56700]] 1, dated September 20, 2017, specifies that an operator can either do a check of delivery and maintenance records to find the serial number of the horizontal stabilizer installed on the airplane during production and to determine if the horizontal stabilizer has been exchanged, or an operator can gain access to the horizontal stabilizer identification plate and do an inspection of the identification plate to find the serial numbers of the horizontal stabilizers. SWA stated that it does not agree with the use of maintenance records to validate serial numbers based on the potential error of not recording the full serial number (manufacturer code and serial number) from the identification plate within the maintenance record documentation. SWA commented that it has determined that the delivery record and physical verification are correct methods in confirming that the serial numbers are installed. We partially agree with the commenter's request. We have reviewed the effectiveness of performing a records check. We disagree with the commenter that a records check is not a valid method and note that it is acceptable for complying with certain actions required by paragraph (g) of this AD. As specified in Note 17 of paragraph 3.A., ``General Information'' of the Accomplishment Instructions of Boeing Alert Service Bulletin 737-55A1097, Revision 1, dated September 20, 2017, ``A check of the airplane maintenance and delivery records is an acceptable method to determine if the left and right horizontal stabilizers are affected provided the installed components can be conclusively determined from that check.'' We agree that if an operator is not confident that it cannot positively identify the affected stabilizers by using maintenance records, then this method should not be used. In addition, Boeing Alert Service Bulletin 737-55A1097, Revision 1, dated September 20, 2017, specifies a check of delivery and maintenance records with a table for the affected manufacturer code and serial number combination to ensure all the affected parts are captured. In regards to the ``Parts Installation Limitation'' paragraph in this AD, there is no option to do a check of the airplane maintenance and delivery records. As specified in paragraph (i)(1) of this AD, a horizontal stabilizer may be installed if the part is inspected in accordance with ``Part 2: Horizontal Stabilizer Identification Plate Inspection'' of the Accomplishments Instructions of Boeing Alert Service Bulletin 737-55A1097, Revision 1, dated September 20, 2017, and no affected serial number is found. As specified in paragraph (i)(2) of this AD, a horizontal stabilizer may be installed if the part is inspected in accordance with ``Part 2: Horizontal Stabilizer Identification Plate Inspection'' of the Accomplishments Instructions of Boeing Alert Service Bulletin 737-55A1097, Revision 1, dated September 20, 2017, and an affected serial number is found, provided the actions specified in paragraphs (i)(2)(i) and (i)(2)(ii) of this AD are done, as applicable. We have not changed this AD in this regard. Conclusion We reviewed the relevant data, considered the comments received, and determined that air safety and the public interest require adopting this AD with the change 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 AD. Related Service Information Under 1 CFR Part 51 We reviewed Boeing Alert Service Bulletin 737-55A1097, Revision 1, dated September 20, 2017. This service information describes procedures for an identification plate inspection or records check to determine whether affected horizontal stabilizers are installed, related investigative actions, and for affected horizontal stabilizers, repetitive high frequency eddy current (HFEC) inspections for any crack of the horizontal stabilizer rear spar upper chord, and corrective action. 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 1,748 airplanes of U.S. registry. We estimate the following costs to comply with this AD: Estimated Costs ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Cost per Cost on U.S. Action Labor cost Parts cost product operators ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Inspection or records check to 1 work-hour x $85 per $0 $85 $148,580. determine the serial number of hour = $85. the horizontal stabilizer. HFEC inspection (horizontal 6 work-hour x $85 per 0 510 Up to $891,480. stabilizer with affected serial hour = 510. number). ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- We have received no definitive data that would enable us to provide cost estimates for the on-condition actions specified in this AD. According to the manufacturer, all of the costs of this AD may be covered under warranty, thereby reducing the cost impact on affected individuals. We do not control warranty coverage for affected individuals. As a result, we have included all available costs in our cost estimate. 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 [[Page 56701]] safety in air commerce. This regulation is within the scope of that authority because it addresses an unsafe condition that is likely to exist or develop on products identified in this rulemaking action. This AD is issued in accordance with authority delegated by the Executive Director, Aircraft Certification Service, as authorized by FAA Order 8000.51C. In accordance with that order, issuance of ADs is normally a function of the Compliance and Airworthiness Division, but during this transition period, the Executive Director has delegated the authority to issue ADs applicable to transport category airplanes and associated appliances to the Director of the System Oversight Division. Regulatory Findings We have determined that this AD will not have federalism implications under Executive Order 13132. This AD will not have a substantial direct effect on the States, on the relationship between the national government and the States, or on the distribution of power and responsibilities among the various levels of government. For the reasons discussed above, I certify that this AD: (1) Is not a ``significant regulatory action'' under Executive Order 12866, (2) Is not a ``significant rule'' under DOT Regulatory Policies and Procedures (44 FR 11034, February 26, 1979), (3) Will not affect intrastate aviation in Alaska, and (4) Will not have a significant economic impact, positive or negative, on a substantial number of small entities under the criteria of the Regulatory Flexibility Act. List of Subjects in 14 CFR Part 39 Air transportation, Aircraft, Aviation safety, Incorporation by reference, Safety. Adoption of the Amendment Accordingly, under the authority delegated to me by the Administrator, the FAA amends 14 CFR part 39 as follows: PART 39--AIRWORTHINESS DIRECTIVES 0 1. The authority citation for part 39 continues to read as follows: Authority: 49 U.S.C. 106(g), 40113, 44701. Sec. 39.13 [Amended] 0 2. The FAA amends Sec. 39.13 by removing Airworthiness Directive (AD) 2016-13-16, Amendment 39-18581 (81 FR 44503, July 8, 2016), and adding the following new AD: 2018-23-09 The Boeing Company: Amendment 39-19495; Docket No. FAA- 2018-0408; Product Identifier 2017-NM-146-AD. (a) Effective Date This AD is effective December 19, 2018. (b) Affected ADs This AD replaces AD 2016-13-16, Amendment 39-18581 (81 FR 44503, July 8, 2016) (``AD 2016-13-16''). (c) Applicability (1) This AD applies to all The Boeing Company Model 737-600, - 700, -700C, -800, -900, and 900ER series airplanes, certificated in any category. (2) Installation of Supplemental Type Certificate (STC) ST00830SE does not affect the ability to accomplish the actions required by this AD. Therefore, for airplanes on which STC ST00830SE 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 55, Stabilizers. (e) Unsafe Condition This AD was prompted by reports of a manufacturing oversight, in which a supplier omitted the required protective finish on certain bushings installed in the rear spar upper chord on horizontal stabilizers, which could lead to galvanic corrosion and consequent cracking of the rear spar upper chord. We are issuing this AD to address cracking of the rear spar upper chord, which could result in the failure of the upper chord, consequent departure of the horizontal stabilizer from the airplane, and loss of control of the airplane. (f) Compliance Comply with this AD within the compliance times specified, unless already done. (g) Required Actions Except as required by paragraph (h) of this AD: At the applicable times specified in paragraph 1.E., ``Compliance,'' of Boeing Alert Service Bulletin 737-55A1097, Revision 1, dated September 20, 2017, do all applicable actions identified as ``RC'' (required for compliance) in, and in accordance with, the Accomplishment Instructions of Boeing Alert Service Bulletin 737- 55A1097, Revision 1, dated September 20, 2017. (h) Exceptions to Service Information (1) For purposes of determining compliance with the requirements of this AD: Where Boeing Alert Service Bulletin 737-55A1097, Revision 1, dated September 20, 2017, uses the phrase ``the Revision 1 date of this service bulletin,'' this AD requires using ``the effective date of this AD.'' (2) Where Boeing Alert Service Bulletin 737-55A1097, Revision 1, dated September 20, 2017, specifies contacting Boeing, and specifies that action as RC: This AD requires repair using a method approved in accordance with the procedures specified in paragraph (k) of this AD. (i) Parts Installation Limitations As of the effective date of this AD, no person may install a horizontal stabilizer on any airplane, except as specified in paragraphs (i)(1) or (i)(2) of this AD. (1) A horizontal stabilizer may be installed if the part is inspected in accordance with ``Part 2: Horizontal Stabilizer Identification Plate Inspection'' of the Accomplishments Instructions of Boeing Alert Service Bulletin 737-55A1097, Revision 1, dated September 20, 2017, and no affected serial number is found. (2) A horizontal stabilizer may be installed if the part is inspected in accordance with ``Part 2: Horizontal Stabilizer Identification Plate Inspection'' of the Accomplishments Instructions of Boeing Alert Service Bulletin 737-55A1097, Revision 1, dated September 20, 2017, and an affected serial number is found, provided that the actions specified in paragraphs (i)(2)(i) and (i)(2)(ii) of this AD are done, as applicable. (i) Initial and repetitive high frequency eddy current (HFEC) inspections, which are part of the required actions specified in paragraph (g) of this AD, are completed within the compliance times specified in paragraph (g) of this AD. (ii) All applicable corrective actions, which are part of the required actions specified in paragraph (g) of this AD, are done within the compliance times specified in paragraph (g) of this AD. (j) Credit for Previous Actions For Groups 1 and 2, Configuration 1 airplanes, as identified in Boeing Alert Service Bulletin 737-55A1097, Revision 1, dated September 20, 2017: This paragraph provides credit for the actions specified in paragraph (g) of this AD, if those actions were performed before the effective date of this AD using Boeing Alert Service Bulletin 737-55A1097, dated July 1, 2015. (k) Alternative Methods of Compliance (AMOCs) (1) The Manager, Seattle 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 (l)(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, Seattle ACO Branch, FAA, to make those findings. To be [[Page 56702]] 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. (4) AMOCs approved previously for AD 2016-13-16 are approved as AMOCs for the corresponding provisions of Boeing Alert Service Bulletin 737-55A1097, Revision 1, dated September 20, 2017, that are required by paragraph (g) of this AD. (5) Except as required by paragraph (h)(2) of this AD: For service information that contains steps that are labeled as Required for Compliance (RC), the provisions of paragraphs (k)(5)(i) and (k)(5)(ii) of this AD apply. (i) The steps labeled as RC, including substeps under an RC step and any figures identified in an RC step, must be done to comply with the AD. If a step or substep is labeled ``RC Exempt,'' then the RC requirement is removed from that step or substep. An AMOC is required for any deviations to RC steps, including substeps and identified figures. (ii) Steps not labeled 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 RC steps, including substeps and identified figures, can still be done as specified, and the airplane can be put back in an airworthy condition. (l) Related Information (1) For more information about this AD, contact Lu Lu, Aerospace Engineer, Airframe Section, FAA, Seattle ACO Branch, 2200 South 216th St., Des Moines, WA 98198; phone and fax: 206-231-3525; email: [email protected]. (2) Service information identified in this AD that is not incorporated by reference is available at the addresses specified in paragraphs (m)(3) and (m)(4) of this AD. (m) Material Incorporated by Reference (1) The Director of the Federal Register approved the incorporation by reference (IBR) of the service information listed in this paragraph under 5 U.S.C. 552(a) and 1 CFR part 51. (2) You must use this service information as applicable to do the actions required by this AD, unless the AD specifies otherwise. (i) Boeing Alert Service Bulletin 737-55A1097, Revision 1, dated September 20, 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 November 2, 2018. Jeffrey E. Duven, Director, System Oversight Division, Aircraft Certification Service. [FR Doc. 2018-24684 Filed 11-13-18; 8:45 am] BILLING CODE 4910-13-P
![56699
Rules and Regulations Federal Register
Vol. 83, No. 220
Wednesday, November 14, 2018
This section of the FEDERAL REGISTER ADDRESSES: For service information finish on certain bushings installed in
contains regulatory documents having general identified in this final rule, contact the rear spar upper chord on horizontal
applicability and legal effect, most of which Boeing Commercial Airplanes, stabilizers, which could lead to galvanic
are keyed to and codified in the Code of Attention: Contractual & Data Services corrosion and consequent cracking of
Federal Regulations, which is published under (C&DS), 2600 Westminster Blvd., MC the rear spar upper chord. The NPRM
50 titles pursuant to 44 U.S.C. 1510.
110–SK57, Seal Beach, CA 90740–5600; proposed to continue to require an
The Code of Federal Regulations is sold by telephone 562–797–1717; internet inspection or records check to
the Superintendent of Documents. https://www.myboeingfleet.com. You determine if affected horizontal
may view this service information at the stabilizers are installed, related
FAA, Transport Standards Branch, 2200 investigative actions, and, for affected
DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION South 216th St., Des Moines, WA. For horizontal stabilizers, repetitive
information on the availability of this inspections for any crack of the
Federal Aviation Administration material at the FAA, call 206–231–3195. horizontal stabilizer rear spar upper
It is also available on the internet at chord, and corrective action if
14 CFR Part 39 http://www.regulations.gov by searching necessary. The NPRM also proposed to
[Docket No. FAA–2018–0408; Product for and locating Docket No. FAA–2018– clarify the inspection areas and serial
Identifier 2017–NM–146–AD; Amendment 0408. number information of the horizontal
39–19495; AD 2018–23–09] stabilizer. We are issuing this AD to
Examining the AD Docket address cracking of the rear spar upper
RIN 2120–AA64 You may examine the AD docket on chord, which could result in the failure
the internet at http:// of the upper chord, consequent
Airworthiness Directives; The Boeing
www.regulations.gov by searching for departure of the horizontal stabilizer
Company Airplanes
and locating Docket No. FAA–2018– from the airplane, and loss of control of
AGENCY: Federal Aviation 0408; or in person at Docket Operations the airplane.
Administration (FAA), DOT. between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m., Monday Comments
ACTION: Final rule. through Friday, except Federal holidays.
The AD docket contains this final rule, We gave the public the opportunity to
SUMMARY: We are superseding the regulatory evaluation, any participate in developing this AD. The
Airworthiness Directive (AD) 2016–13– comments received, and other following presents the comments
16, which applied to all The Boeing information. The address for Docket received on the NPRM and the FAA’s
Company Model 737–600, –700, –700C, Operations (phone: 800–647–5527) is response to each comment. Air Line
–800, –900, and –900ER series U.S. Department of Transportation, Pilots Association, International
airplanes. AD 2016–13–16 required an Docket Operations, M–30, West (ALPA), Boeing, and United Airlines
inspection or records check to Building Ground Floor, Room W12–140, stated that they supported the NPRM.
determine if affected horizontal 1200 New Jersey Avenue SE, Effect of Winglets on Accomplishment
stabilizers are installed, related Washington, DC 20590. of the Proposed Actions
investigative actions, and, for affected FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Lu Aviation Partners Boeing stated that
horizontal stabilizers, repetitive Lu, Aerospace Engineer, Airframe accomplishing the supplemental type
inspections for any crack of the Section, FAA, Seattle ACO Branch, 2200 certificate (STC) ST00830SE does not
horizontal stabilizer rear spar upper South 216th St., Des Moines, WA 98198; affect the actions specified in the
chord, and corrective action if phone and fax: 206–231–3525; email: NPRM.
necessary. This AD requires retaining lu.lu@faa.gov. We concur with the commenter. We
the requirements of AD 2016–13–16, SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: have redesignated paragraph (c) of the
with revised service information that proposed AD as paragraph (c)(1) of this
clarifies the inspection areas and serial Discussion
AD and added paragraph (c)(2) to this
number information of the horizontal We issued a notice of proposed AD to state that installation of STC
stabilizer. This AD was prompted by rulemaking (NPRM) to amend 14 CFR ST00830SE does not affect the ability to
reports of a manufacturing oversight, in part 39 to supersede AD 2016–13–16, accomplish the actions required by this
which a supplier omitted the required Amendment 39–18581 (81 FR 44503, AD. Therefore, for airplanes on which
protective finish on certain bushings July 8, 2016) (‘‘AD 2016–13–16’’). AD STC ST00830SE is installed, a ‘‘change
installed in the rear spar upper chord on 2016–13–16 applied to all The Boeing in product’’ alternative method of
horizontal stabilizers, which could lead Company Model 737–600, –700, –700C, compliance (AMOC) approval request is
to galvanic corrosion and consequent –800, –900, and –900ER series not necessary to comply with the
cracking of the rear spar upper chord. airplanes. The NPRM published in the requirements of 14 CFR 39.17.
We are issuing this AD to address the Federal Register on May 15, 2018 (83
unsafe condition on these products. FR 22417). The NPRM was prompted by Request To Review Parts Installation
DATES: This AD is effective December a determination that clarification of Limitations Paragraph
19, 2018. inspection areas and serial number Southwest Airlines (SWA) requested
The Director of the Federal Register information of the horizontal stabilizer that we review the ‘‘Parts Installation
approved the incorporation by reference is necessary and reports of a Limitation’’ paragraph in the proposed
of a certain publication listed in this AD manufacturing oversight, in which a AD. SWA stated that Boeing Alert
as of December 19, 2018. supplier omitted the required protective Service Bulletin 737–55A1097, Revision
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![Federal Register / Vol. 83, No. 220 / Wednesday, November 14, 2018 / Rules and Regulations 56701
safety in air commerce. This regulation 2018–23–09 The Boeing Company: repair using a method approved in
is within the scope of that authority Amendment 39–19495; Docket No. accordance with the procedures specified in
because it addresses an unsafe condition FAA–2018–0408; Product Identifier paragraph (k) of this AD.
2017–NM–146–AD.
that is likely to exist or develop on (i) Parts Installation Limitations
products identified in this rulemaking (a) Effective Date As of the effective date of this AD, no
action. This AD is effective December 19, 2018. person may install a horizontal stabilizer on
This AD is issued in accordance with any airplane, except as specified in
authority delegated by the Executive (b) Affected ADs paragraphs (i)(1) or (i)(2) of this AD.
Director, Aircraft Certification Service, This AD replaces AD 2016–13–16, (1) A horizontal stabilizer may be installed
as authorized by FAA Order 8000.51C. Amendment 39–18581 (81 FR 44503, July 8, if the part is inspected in accordance with
In accordance with that order, issuance 2016) (‘‘AD 2016–13–16’’). ‘‘Part 2: Horizontal Stabilizer Identification
Plate Inspection’’ of the Accomplishments
of ADs is normally a function of the (c) Applicability Instructions of Boeing Alert Service Bulletin
Compliance and Airworthiness (1) This AD applies to all The Boeing 737–55A1097, Revision 1, dated September
Division, but during this transition Company Model 737–600, –700, –700C, 20, 2017, and no affected serial number is
period, the Executive Director has –800, –900, and 900ER series airplanes, found.
delegated the authority to issue ADs certificated in any category. (2) A horizontal stabilizer may be installed
applicable to transport category (2) Installation of Supplemental Type if the part is inspected in accordance with
airplanes and associated appliances to Certificate (STC) ST00830SE does not affect ‘‘Part 2: Horizontal Stabilizer Identification
the Director of the System Oversight the ability to accomplish the actions required Plate Inspection’’ of the Accomplishments
by this AD. Therefore, for airplanes on which Instructions of Boeing Alert Service Bulletin
Division.
STC ST00830SE is installed, a ‘‘change in 737–55A1097, Revision 1, dated September
Regulatory Findings product’’ alternative method of compliance 20, 2017, and an affected serial number is
(AMOC) approval request is not necessary to found, provided that the actions specified in
We have determined that this AD will comply with the requirements of 14 CFR paragraphs (i)(2)(i) and (i)(2)(ii) of this AD are
not have federalism implications under 39.17. done, as applicable.
Executive Order 13132. This AD will (i) Initial and repetitive high frequency
not have a substantial direct effect on (d) Subject
eddy current (HFEC) inspections, which are
the States, on the relationship between Air Transport Association (ATA) of part of the required actions specified in
the national government and the States, America Code 55, Stabilizers. paragraph (g) of this AD, are completed
or on the distribution of power and (e) Unsafe Condition within the compliance times specified in
responsibilities among the various paragraph (g) of this AD.
This AD was prompted by reports of a (ii) All applicable corrective actions, which
levels of government. manufacturing oversight, in which a supplier are part of the required actions specified in
For the reasons discussed above, I omitted the required protective finish on paragraph (g) of this AD, are done within the
certify that this AD: certain bushings installed in the rear spar compliance times specified in paragraph (g)
(1) Is not a ‘‘significant regulatory upper chord on horizontal stabilizers, which of this AD.
action’’ under Executive Order 12866, could lead to galvanic corrosion and
(2) Is not a ‘‘significant rule’’ under consequent cracking of the rear spar upper (j) Credit for Previous Actions
DOT Regulatory Policies and Procedures chord. We are issuing this AD to address For Groups 1 and 2, Configuration 1
(44 FR 11034, February 26, 1979), cracking of the rear spar upper chord, which airplanes, as identified in Boeing Alert
(3) Will not affect intrastate aviation could result in the failure of the upper chord, Service Bulletin 737–55A1097, Revision 1,
in Alaska, and consequent departure of the horizontal dated September 20, 2017: This paragraph
(4) Will not have a significant stabilizer from the airplane, and loss of provides credit for the actions specified in
control of the airplane. paragraph (g) of this AD, if those actions were
economic impact, positive or negative,
performed before the effective date of this AD
on a substantial number of small entities (f) Compliance
using Boeing Alert Service Bulletin 737–
under the criteria of the Regulatory Comply with this AD within the 55A1097, dated July 1, 2015.
Flexibility Act. compliance times specified, unless already
done. (k) Alternative Methods of Compliance
List of Subjects in 14 CFR Part 39 (AMOCs)
Air transportation, Aircraft, Aviation (g) Required Actions
(1) The Manager, Seattle ACO Branch,
safety, Incorporation by reference, Except as required by paragraph (h) of this FAA, has the authority to approve AMOCs
Safety. AD: At the applicable times specified in for this AD, if requested using the procedures
paragraph 1.E., ‘‘Compliance,’’ of Boeing found in 14 CFR 39.19. In accordance with
Adoption of the Amendment Alert Service Bulletin 737–55A1097, 14 CFR 39.19, send your request to your
Accordingly, under the authority Revision 1, dated September 20, 2017, do all principal inspector or local Flight Standards
applicable actions identified as ‘‘RC’’ District Office, as appropriate. If sending
delegated to me by the Administrator, (required for compliance) in, and in information directly to the manager of the
the FAA amends 14 CFR part 39 as accordance with, the Accomplishment certification office, send it to the attention of
follows: Instructions of Boeing Alert Service Bulletin the person identified in paragraph (l)(1) of
737–55A1097, Revision 1, dated September this AD. Information may be emailed to: 9-
PART 39—AIRWORTHINESS 20, 2017. ANM-Seattle-ACO-AMOC-Requests@faa.gov.
DIRECTIVES (2) Before using any approved AMOC,
(h) Exceptions to Service Information notify your appropriate principal inspector,
■ 1. The authority citation for part 39 (1) For purposes of determining or lacking a principal inspector, the manager
continues to read as follows: compliance with the requirements of this AD: of the local flight standards district office/
Authority: 49 U.S.C. 106(g), 40113, 44701. Where Boeing Alert Service Bulletin 737– certificate holding district office.
55A1097, Revision 1, dated September 20, (3) An AMOC that provides an acceptable
§ 39.13 [Amended] 2017, uses the phrase ‘‘the Revision 1 date of level of safety may be used for any repair,
this service bulletin,’’ this AD requires using modification, or alteration required by this
■ 2. The FAA amends § 39.13 by ‘‘the effective date of this AD.’’ AD if it is approved by the Boeing
removing Airworthiness Directive (AD) (2) Where Boeing Alert Service Bulletin Commercial Airplanes Organization
2016–13–16, Amendment 39–18581 (81 737–55A1097, Revision 1, dated September Designation Authorization (ODA) that has
FR 44503, July 8, 2016), and adding the 20, 2017, specifies contacting Boeing, and been authorized by the Manager, Seattle ACO
following new AD: specifies that action as RC: This AD requires Branch, FAA, to make those findings. To be
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![56702 Federal Register / Vol. 83, No. 220 / Wednesday, November 14, 2018 / Rules and Regulations
approved, the repair method, modification 202–741–6030, or go to: http:// http://www.regulations.gov by searching
deviation, or alteration deviation must meet www.archives.gov/federal-register/cfr/ibr- for and locating Docket No. FAA–2018–
the certification basis of the airplane, and the locations.html. 0758.
approval must specifically refer to this AD.
Issued in Des Moines, Washington, on
(4) AMOCs approved previously for AD
November 2, 2018.
Examining the AD Docket
2016–13–16 are approved as AMOCs for the
corresponding provisions of Boeing Alert Jeffrey E. Duven, You may examine the AD docket on
Service Bulletin 737–55A1097, Revision 1, Director, System Oversight Division, Aircraft the internet at http://
dated September 20, 2017, that are required Certification Service. www.regulations.gov by searching for
by paragraph (g) of this AD. [FR Doc. 2018–24684 Filed 11–13–18; 8:45 am] and locating Docket No. FAA–2018–
(5) Except as required by paragraph (h)(2) BILLING CODE 4910–13–P
0758; or in person at Docket Operations
of this AD: For service information that between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m., Monday
contains steps that are labeled as Required through Friday, except Federal holidays.
for Compliance (RC), the provisions of The AD docket contains this final rule,
DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION
paragraphs (k)(5)(i) and (k)(5)(ii) of this AD the regulatory evaluation, any
apply.
Federal Aviation Administration comments received, and other
(i) The steps labeled as RC, including
substeps under an RC step and any figures information. The address for Docket
identified in an RC step, must be done to 14 CFR Part 39 Operations (phone: 800–647–5527) is
comply with the AD. If a step or substep is [Docket No. FAA–2018–0758; Product U.S. Department of Transportation,
labeled ‘‘RC Exempt,’’ then the RC Identifier 2018–NM–093–AD; Amendment Docket Operations, M–30, West
requirement is removed from that step or 39–19493; AD 2018–23–07] Building Ground Floor, Room W12–140,
substep. An AMOC is required for any 1200 New Jersey Avenue SE,
deviations to RC steps, including substeps RIN 2120–AA64 Washington, DC 20590.
and identified figures.
(ii) Steps not labeled as RC may be Airworthiness Directives; Airbus SAS FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT:
deviated from using accepted methods in Airplanes Kathleen Arrigotti, Aerospace Engineer,
accordance with the operator’s maintenance International Section, Transport
or inspection program without obtaining AGENCY: Federal Aviation Standards Branch, FAA, 2200 South
approval of an AMOC, provided the RC steps, Administration (FAA), Department of 216th St., Des Moines, WA 98198;
including substeps and identified figures, can Transportation (DOT). telephone and fax 206–231–3218.
still be done as specified, and the airplane ACTION: Final rule. SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION:
can be put back in an airworthy condition.
(l) Related Information SUMMARY: We are adopting a new Discussion
airworthiness directive (AD) for certain We issued a notice of proposed
(1) For more information about this AD,
contact Lu Lu, Aerospace Engineer, Airframe Airbus SAS Model A350–941 airplanes. rulemaking (NPRM) to amend 14 CFR
Section, FAA, Seattle ACO Branch, 2200 This AD was prompted by a review of part 39 by adding an AD that would
South 216th St., Des Moines, WA 98198; the Airbus A350 structure design apply to certain Airbus SAS Model
phone and fax: 206–231–3525; email: lu.lu@ principles database for type definition A350–941 airplanes. The NPRM
faa.gov. that revealed that the balancer fitting published in the Federal Register on
(2) Service information identified in this part, installed on the tail cone, on a
AD that is not incorporated by reference is August 16, 2018 (83 FR 40708). The
certain frame (FR) has several corrosion- NPRM was prompted by a review of the
available at the addresses specified in resistant stainless steel nuts that do not
paragraphs (m)(3) and (m)(4) of this AD. Airbus A350 structure design principles
meet the requirements for protection database for type definition that
(m) Material Incorporated by Reference against corrosion. This AD requires revealed that the balancer fitting part,
(1) The Director of the Federal Register application of a new additional overcoat installed on the tail cone, on a certain
approved the incorporation by reference sealant and elastic varnish on the FR has several corrosion-resistant
(IBR) of the service information listed in this affected nuts and fasteners. We are stainless steel nuts that do not meet the
paragraph under 5 U.S.C. 552(a) and 1 CFR issuing this AD to address the unsafe
part 51.
requirements for protection against
condition on these products. corrosion. The NPRM proposed to
(2) You must use this service information
DATES: This AD is effective December require application of a new additional
as applicable to do the actions required by
this AD, unless the AD specifies otherwise. 19, 2018. overcoat sealant and elastic varnish on
(i) Boeing Alert Service Bulletin 737– The Director of the Federal Register the affected nuts and fasteners.
55A1097, Revision 1, dated September 20, approved the incorporation by reference We are issuing this AD to address
2017. of a certain publication listed in this AD several corrosion-resistant stainless steel
(ii) [Reserved] as of December 19, 2018. nuts installed on elementary aluminum
(3) For service information identified in ADDRESSES: For service information parts, which do not meet the
this AD, contact Boeing Commercial
Airplanes, Attention: Contractual & Data
identified in this final rule, contact requirements for protection against
Services (C&DS), 2600 Westminster Blvd., Airbus SAS, Airworthiness Office— corrosion, and if not corrected, could
MC 110–SK57, Seal Beach, CA 90740–5600; EAL, Rond-Point Emile Dewoitine No: reduce the structural integrity of the
telephone 562–797–1717; internet https:// 2, 31700 Blagnac Cedex, France; airplane.
www.myboeingfleet.com. telephone +33 5 61 93 36 96; fax +33 5 The European Aviation Safety Agency
(4) You may view this service information 61 93 45 80; email continued- (EASA), which is the Technical Agent
at the FAA, Transport Standards Branch, airworthiness.a350@airbus.com; for the Member States of the European
2200 South 216th St., Des Moines, WA. For internet http://www.airbus.com. You Union, has issued EASA AD 2018–0123,
information on the availability of this may view this service information at the dated June 4, 2018 (referred to after this
material at the FAA, call 206–231–3195.
(5) You may view this service information
FAA, Transport Standards Branch, 2200 as the Mandatory Continuing
that is incorporated by reference at the South 216th St., Des Moines, WA. For Airworthiness Information, or ‘‘the
National Archives and Records information on the availability of this MCAI’’), to correct an unsafe condition
Administration (NARA). For information on material at the FAA, call 206–231–3195. for certain Airbus SAS Model A350–941
the availability of this material at NARA, call It is also available on the internet at airplanes. The MCAI states:
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Document Created: 2018-11-14 03:31:34
Document Modified: 2018-11-14 03:31:34
| 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 December 19, 2018. | |
| Contact | Lu Lu, Aerospace Engineer, Airframe Section, FAA, Seattle ACO Branch, 2200 South 216th St., Des Moines, WA 98198; phone and fax: 206-231-3525; email: [email protected] | |
| FR Citation | 83 FR 56699 | |
| RIN Number | 2120-AA64 | |
| CFR Associated | Air Transportation; Aircraft; Aviation Safety; Incorporation by Reference and Safety |
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