83_FR_56924 83 FR 56704 - Airworthiness Directives; Airbus SAS Airplanes

83 FR 56704 - Airworthiness Directives; Airbus SAS Airplanes

DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION
Federal Aviation Administration

Federal Register Volume 83, Issue 220 (November 14, 2018)

Page Range56704-56709
FR Document2018-24688

We are adopting a new airworthiness directive (AD) for certain Airbus SAS Model A319 series airplanes; Model A320-211, -212, -214, - 231, -232, and -233 airplanes; and Model A321-111, -112, -131, -211, - 212, -213, -231, and -232 airplanes. This AD was prompted by investigations that revealed that the cover seal of the brake dual distribution valve (BDDV) was damaged and did not ensure efficient sealing. This AD requires identifying the BDDV part number installed on the airplane, and modifying or replacing BDDVs having certain part numbers. We are issuing this AD to address the unsafe condition on these products.

Federal Register, Volume 83 Issue 220 (Wednesday, November 14, 2018)
[Federal Register Volume 83, Number 220 (Wednesday, November 14, 2018)]
[Rules and Regulations]
[Pages 56704-56709]
From the Federal Register Online  [www.thefederalregister.org]
[FR Doc No: 2018-24688]


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DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION

Federal Aviation Administration

14 CFR Part 39

[Docket No. FAA-2018-0297; Product Identifier 2017-NM-181-AD; Amendment 
39-19497; AD 2018-23-11]
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 certain 
Airbus SAS Model A319 series airplanes; Model A320-211, -212, -214, -
231, -232, and -233 airplanes; and Model A321-111, -112, -131, -211, -
212, -213, -231, and -232 airplanes. This AD was prompted by 
investigations that revealed that the cover seal of the brake dual 
distribution valve (BDDV) was damaged and did not ensure efficient 
sealing. This AD requires identifying the BDDV part number installed on 
the airplane, and modifying or replacing BDDVs having certain part 
numbers. We are issuing this AD to address the unsafe condition on 
these products.

DATES: This AD is effective December 19, 2018.

[[Page 56705]]

    The Director of the Federal Register approved the incorporation by 
reference of certain publications listed in this AD as of December 19, 
2018.

ADDRESSES: For service information identified in this final rule, 
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. It is also available on the internet at http://www.regulations.gov by searching for and locating Docket No. FAA-2018-
0297.

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-
0297; 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: 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:

Discussion

    We issued a notice of proposed rulemaking (NPRM) to amend 14 CFR 
part 39 by adding an AD that would apply to certain Airbus SAS Model 
A319 series airplanes; Model A320-211, -212, -214, -231, -232, and -233 
airplanes; and Model A321-111, -112, -131, -211, -212, -213, -231, and 
-232 airplanes. The NPRM published in the Federal Register on April 17, 
2018 (83 FR 16799). The NPRM was prompted by investigations that 
revealed that the cover seal of the BDDV was damaged and did not ensure 
efficient sealing. The NPRM proposed to require identifying the BDDV 
part number installed on the airplane, and modifying or replacing BDDVs 
having certain part numbers.
    We are issuing this AD to address water ingestion in the BDDV, 
freezing of the BDDV in flight, and consequent loss of braking system 
function after landing. These conditions could possibly result in 
damage to the airplane and injury to occupants.
    The European Aviation Safety Agency (EASA), which is the Technical 
Agent for the Member States of the European Union, has issued EASA AD 
2017-0119, dated July 11, 2017 (referred to after this as the Mandatory 
Continuing Airworthiness Information, or ``the MCAI''), to correct an 
unsafe condition for certain Airbus SAS Model A319 series airplanes; 
Model A320-211, -212, -214, -231, -232, and -233 airplanes; and Model 
A321-111, -112, -131, -211, -212, -213, -231, and -232 airplanes. The 
MCAI states:

    In 1998, an operator experienced a dual loss of braking systems. 
Investigation results revealed that the cover seal of the BDDV was 
damaged and did not ensure the sealing efficiency.
    This condition, if not corrected, could lead to water ingestion 
in the BDDV, freezing of the BDDV in flight, and consequent loss of 
braking system function after landing, possibly resulting in damage 
to the aeroplane and injury to occupants.
    To address this potential unsafe condition, Airbus issued Alert 
Operator Telex (AOT) 32-19 and Service Bulletin (SB) A320-32-1199, 
providing instructions for repetitive functional tests. In addition, 
Airbus developed mod 28301 and published SB A320-32-1203 to provide 
modification instructions.
    Consequently, DGAC [Directorate General for Civil Aviation] 
France issued AD 2000-258-146 [which corresponds to FAA AD 2001-15-
10, Amendment 39-12344 (66 FR 39413, July 31, 2001) (``AD 2001-15-
10'')] to require repetitive functional tests as a temporary 
solution (valid for a period of 15 months) and modification of the 
BDDV with a new cover and installation of a draining tube with a 
cap, which was terminating action for the repetitive functional 
tests. For pre-mod 27833 and pre-SB A320-32-1200 aeroplanes, 
repetitive inspections per SB A320-32-1199 were required as interim 
action, prior to the terminating action modification per SB A320-32-
1203.
    After that [DGAC] AD was issued, following a new event, Airbus 
developed a new modification of the BDDV drain tube which leaves it 
open, ensuring continuous drainage of any ingested water, thereby 
preventing freezing of the brake system.
    Consequently, EASA issued AD 2014-0251 (later revised), 
partially retaining the requirements of DGAC France AD 2000-258-146, 
which was superseded, and requiring an additional modification of 
the BDDV drain tube and re-identification of the BDDV.
    Since EASA AD 2014-0251R1 [which corresponds to FAA AD 2016-06-
13, Amendment 39-18444 (81 FR 17365, March 29, 2016) (``AD 2016-06-
13'')] was issued, comments were received that indicated a need for 
correction and clarification. Consequently, this [EASA] AD retains 
the requirements of EASA AD 2014-0251R1, which is superseded, and 
expands the list of BDDV Part Numbers (P/N) which must be removed 
from service and are no longer eligible for installation on an 
aeroplane [and includes replacing affected part numbers as an 
option]. This [EASA] AD also clarifies the intended requirements of 
EASA AD 2014-0251 and introduces editorial changes, not affecting 
the requirements.

    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-
0297.

Comments

    We gave the public the opportunity to participate in developing 
this final rule. The following presents the comments received on the 
NPRM and the FAA's response to each comment.

Supportive Comments

    Air Line Pilots Association, International stated its support for 
the NPRM. In addition, United Airlines (UAL) stated it concurs with the 
expansion of the affected BDDV part numbers as identified in Figure 1 
to paragraphs (g) and (h) of the proposed AD.

Request To Withdraw the NPRM

    Delta Air lines (DAL) requested that we withdraw the NPRM. DAL 
stated that the NPRM does not address an unsafe condition and, 
therefore, it is unnecessary. DAL commented that airplanes included in 
paragraph (c) of the proposed AD are already required to comply with 
the actions required by AD 2001-15-10, depending on modification 
status. DAL also commented that the NPRM does not add any airplanes to 
the applicability of AD 2001-15-10 and 2016-06-13. DAL stated that 
tracking compliance with the redundant requirements of the proposed AD 
would place an undue burden on airlines.
    DAL stated that paragraphs (j)(1)(i) and (j)(2)(i) of the proposed 
AD give credit for actions accomplished using previously issued service 
information. DAL commented that FAA Letter ANM-116-16-491, dated 
September 27, 2016, gives operators the authority to accomplish 
paragraph (g) of AD 2016-06-13 as an alternative method of compliance 
(AMOC), and it is also a terminating action for the actions required by 
paragraphs (e) and (f) of AD 2001-15-10. DAL stated that the compliance 
times for AD 2001-15-10 and AD 2016-06-13 have passed, therefore, all 
airplanes must be in compliance.

[[Page 56706]]

    We partially agree with the commenter's request. We agree that 
airplanes included in paragraph (c) of this AD are also required to 
comply with AD 2001-15-10 and AD 2016-06-13, and that this AD does not 
add any new Model airplanes related to those listed in AD 2001-15-10 
and AD 2016-06-13. However, as stated in paragraph (i) of this AD, 
compliance with paragraph (g) of this AD terminates the requirements in 
paragraphs (e) and (f) of AD 2001-15-10 (which terminates all 
requirements of AD 2001-15-10 for Model A318, A319 and A320 series 
airplanes) and all requirements of AD 2016-06-13. For clarification, we 
have modified paragraph (i)(1) of this AD to state that compliance with 
paragraph (g) of this AD terminates all requirements of AD 2001-15-10 
for Model A319, A320 and A321 series airplanes. We agree that operators 
will be required to track certain ADs with expired compliance times, 
but we are in process of rescinding some of those ADs through future 
rulemaking. We agree that AMOC letter ANM-116-16-491 dated September 
27, 2016, will still be applicable to AD 2016-06-13.
    We disagree with the commenter's request to withdraw this AD. We, 
along with EASA, have determined that water ingestion in the BDDV, 
freezing of the BDDV in flight, and consequent loss of braking system 
function after landing, could possibly result in damage to the airplane 
and injury to occupants, and therefore, does constitute an unsafe 
condition, and that additional mandatory actions in this AD are 
required to mitigate the risks associated with the unsafe condition. 
Further, even if the current U.S.-Registered fleet is in compliance 
with the requirements of this AD, the issuance of the rule is still 
necessary to ensure that any affected airplane imported and placed on 
the U.S. Register in the future would be required to be in compliance 
as well. This AD expands the list of BDDV part numbers, which must be 
removed from service and are no longer eligible for installation on an 
airplane. Therefore, all U.S.-Registered airplanes might not be in 
compliance with the actions of this AD even when in full compliance 
with AD 2001-15-10 and AD 2016-06-13. However, if DAL concludes that it 
is in compliance with the requirements of this AD, then it may utilize 
the provision in paragraph (f) to demonstrate compliance. We have not 
changed this AD in this regard.

Request To Correct Certain Wording

    DAL observed that the word ``actions'' was inadvertently omitted 
from the first sentence in paragraph (g)(2) of the proposed AD after 
the word ``corrective.'' We agree and have added the missing word 
accordingly.

Request To Revise Certain Wording for Clarification

    UAL requested that we revise the wording in certain paragraphs of 
the proposed AD for clarification. UAL suggested that paragraph (g)(3) 
of the proposed AD be reworded because the way it is currently written, 
it could be interpreted as ``a part number specified as new P/N in 
figure 2 to paragraphs (g)(3) and (h)(2)'' cannot be installed.
    UAL also suggested that paragraph (h) of the proposed AD be revised 
to eliminate paragraphs (h)(1) and (h)(2) and be reworded to simply 
prohibit the installation of affected BDDVs as specified in figure 1 to 
paragraphs (g) and (h) of the proposed AD.
    We partially agree to the commenter's requests. We agree to clarify 
paragraph (g)(3) of this AD. We have revised paragraph (g)(3) of this 
AD to clarify that operators should replace the old part number with a 
new part number as specified in figure 2 to paragraphs (g)(3) and 
(h)(2) of this AD.
    However, we disagree to simply prohibit installation of discrepant 
parts that are specified in figure 1 to paragraphs (g) and (h) of this 
AD from the effective date of this AD. Paragraph (h) provides operators 
flexibility by providing the full compliance time as specified in 
paragraph (g) to modify or replace discrepant parts, unless the 
discrepant part is either currently installed as of the effective date 
of this AD and is subsequently modified or replaced (after the 
effective date of this AD) as stated in paragraph (h)(1) of this AD, or 
has already been modified or replaced as of the effective date of this 
AD as stated in paragraph (h)(2) of this AD. Operators have the 
discretion to prohibit operation with a discrepant part in figure 1 to 
paragraphs (g) and (h) of this AD from the effective date of this AD. 
We have not changed the AD in this regard.

Request To Clarify the Compliance Requirements

    JetBlue requested that we clarify the compliance requirements in 
paragraphs (g)(2), (g)(3), and (h)(2) of the proposed AD because of 
contradictory requirements. The commenter did not clearly identify 
which requirements needed clarification.
    We do not agree to revise paragraph (g)(2) of this AD. This AD and 
the Accomplishment Instructions of Airbus Service Bulletin A320-32-
1415, Revision 02, dated December 10, 2015, specify that, if corrosion 
is found in a non-permitted area, replace the BDDV before further 
flight. We have not changed this AD in this regard.
    As we stated previously, we have revised paragraph (g)(3) of this 
AD to clarify that operators should replace the old part number with a 
new part number as specified in figure 2 to paragraphs (g)(3) and 
(h)(2) of this AD.
    We agree to clarify the compliance requirements of paragraph (h)(2) 
of this AD. As stated in the previous comment response, paragraph (h) 
is intended to provide operators flexibility by providing the full 
compliance time as specified in paragraph (g) to modify or replace 
discrepant parts. However, paragraph (h)(2) of this AD specifically 
prohibits installation of a discrepant part as of the effective date of 
this AD if the discrepant part has already been modified or replaced as 
of the effective date of this AD. Paragraph (h)(1) of this AD prohibits 
installation of a discrepant part as of the effective date of this AD, 
if a discrepant part is currently installed as of the effective of this 
AD, but is modified or replaced after the effective date of this AD. 
Operators have the discretion to prohibit operation with a discrepant 
part in figure 1 to paragraphs (g) and (h) of this AD from the 
effective date of this AD. We have not changed the 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 final rule with the changes described previously and minor 
editorial changes. We have determined that these minor changes:
     Are consistent with the intent that was proposed in the 
NPRM for addressing the unsafe condition; and
     Do not add any additional burden upon the public than was 
already proposed in the NPRM.
    We also determined that these changes will not increase the 
economic burden on any operator or increase the scope of this final 
rule.

Related Service Information Under 1 CFR Part 51

    Airbus SAS has issued Service Bulletin A320-32-1203, Revision 02, 
dated February 9, 2001. This service information describes procedures 
for identifying the BDDV part number installed on the airplane, and 
modifying or replacing BDDVs having certain part numbers.
    Airbus SAS has also issued Service Bulletin A320-32-1415, Revision 
02, dated December 10, 2015. This service information describes 
procedures for

[[Page 56707]]

modifying and re-identifying the BDDV. The modification includes 
modifying the drain hose of the BDDV, and doing all related 
investigative and corrective actions if applicable. The related 
investigative actions include an inspection for corrosion. Corrective 
actions include replacing the BDDV.
    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 1,136 airplanes of U.S. registry.
    We estimate the following costs to comply with this AD:

                                                                     Estimated Costs
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
               Action                      Labor cost                 Parts cost               Cost per  product             Cost on U.S. operators
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Identification and modification or   Up to 6 work-hours x    Up to $395.................  Up to $905.................  Up to $1,028,080.
 replacement.                         $85 per hour = $510.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

    We have received no definitive data that would enable us to provide 
cost estimates for the on-condition actions specified in this AD.

Authority for This Rulemaking

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

2018-23-11 Airbus SAS: Amendment 39-19497; Docket No. FAA-2018-0297; 
Product Identifier 2017-NM-181-AD.

(a) Effective Date

    This AD is effective December 19, 2018.

(b) Affected ADs

    This AD affects AD 2001-15-10, Amendment 39-12344 (66 FR 39413, 
July 31, 2001) (``AD 2001-15-10''), and AD 2016-06-13, Amendment 39-
18444 (81 FR 17365, March 29, 2016) (``AD 2016-06-13'').

(c) Applicability

    This AD applies to the airplanes identified in paragraphs (c)(1) 
through (c)(3) of this AD, certificated in any category, all 
manufacturer serial numbers, except those on which Airbus 
Modification 26925 has been embodied in production, which introduces 
a modified alternate braking system that removes the brake dual 
distribution valve (BDDV).
    (1) Airbus SAS Model A319-111, -112, -113, -114, -115, -131, -
132, and -133 airplanes.
    (2) Airbus SAS Model A320-211, -212, -214, -231, -232, and -233 
airplanes.
    (3) Airbus SAS Model A321-111, -112, -131,-211,-212, -213, -231, 
and -232 airplanes.

(d) Subject

    Air Transport Association (ATA) of America Code 32, Landing 
gear.

(e) Reason

    This AD was prompted by investigations that revealed that the 
cover seal of the brake dual distribution valve (BDDV) was damaged 
and did not ensure efficient sealing. We are issuing this AD to 
prevent water ingestion in the BDDV, freezing of the BDDV in flight, 
and consequent loss of braking system function after landing. These 
conditions could possibly result in damage to the airplane and 
injury to occupants.

(f) Compliance

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

(g) Identification and Modification or Replacement

    Within 3 months after the effective date of this AD, identify 
the BDDV part number installed on the airplane. For each affected 
BDDV part number specified in figure 1 to paragraphs (g) and (h) of 
this AD, within 3 months after the effective date of this AD, do the 
actions in paragraph (g)(1), (g)(2), or (g)(3) of this AD. A review 
of airplane maintenance records is acceptable to identify the BDDV 
part number if the part number of the BDDV can be conclusively 
determined from that review.

[[Page 56708]]

[GRAPHIC] [TIFF OMITTED] TR14NO18.001

    (1) Modify and re-identify the affected BDDV, in accordance with 
the Accomplishment Instructions of Airbus Service Bulletin A320-32-
1203, Revision 02, dated February 9, 2001.
    (2) Modify and re-identify the affected BDDV, and do all 
applicable related investigative and corrective actions, in 
accordance with the Accomplishment Instructions of Airbus Service 
Bulletin A320-32-1415, Revision 02, dated December 10, 2015. Do all 
applicable related investigative and corrective actions before 
further flight.
    (3) Replace the affected BDDV with a BDDV having a part number 
not specified in figure 1 to paragraphs (g) and (h) of this AD, or 
replace the old part number with a new part number as specified in 
figure 2 to paragraphs (g)(3) and (h)(2) of this AD. Do the 
replacement 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.
[GRAPHIC] [TIFF OMITTED] TR14NO18.002

 (h) Parts Installation Prohibition

    As of the applicable time specified in paragraph (h)(1) or 
(h)(2) of this AD, no person may install a BDDV having a part number 
specified in figure 1 to paragraphs (g) and (h) of this AD, on any 
airplane.
    (1) For any airplane that, on the effective date of this AD, has 
a BDDV installed with a part number specified in figure 1 to 
paragraphs (g) and (h) of this AD: After modification or replacement 
of the BDDV, as required by paragraph (g) of this AD.
    (2) For any airplane that, on the effective date of this AD, has 
a BDDV installed or replaced with a part number specified as `new P/
N' in figure 2 to paragraphs (g)(3) and (h)(2) of this AD, or has a 
BDDV installed or replaced with a part number not specified in 
figure 1 to paragraphs (g) and (h) of this AD: As of the effective 
date of this AD.

(i) Terminating Action for Other ADs

    (1) Doing the actions in paragraph (g) of this AD terminates the 
requirements in paragraphs (e) and (f) of AD 2001-15-10 for Model 
A319, A320 and A321 series airplanes.
    (2) Doing the actions in paragraph (g) of this AD terminates all 
of the requirements of AD 2016-06-13.

(j) Credit for Previous Actions

    (1) This paragraph provides credit for actions required by 
paragraph (g)(1) of this AD, if those actions were performed before 
the effective date of this AD using the service information in 
paragraphs (j)(1)(i) or (j)(1)(ii) of this AD.
    (i) Airbus Service Bulletin A320-32-1203, dated June 4, 1999, 
which was incorporated by reference in AD 2001-15-10.
    (ii) Airbus Service Bulletin A320-32-1203, Revision 01, dated 
October 12, 2000.
    (2) This paragraph provides credit for actions required by 
paragraph (g)(2) of this AD, if those actions were performed before 
the effective date of this AD using the service information in 
paragraphs (j)(2)(i) or (j)(2)(ii) of this AD.
    (i) Airbus Service Bulletin A320-32-1415, dated September 2, 
2014, which was incorporated by reference in AD 2016-06-13.
    (ii) Airbus Service Bulletin A320-32-1415, Revision 01, dated 
April 23, 2015.

(k) Other FAA AD Provisions

    The following provisions also apply to this AD:
    (1) Alternative Methods of Compliance (AMOCs): The Manager, 
International Section, Transport Standards Branch, FAA, has the 
authority to approve AMOCs for this AD, if requested using the 
procedures found in 14 CFR 39.19. In accordance with 14 CFR 39.19, 
send your request to your principal inspector or local Flight 
Standards District Office, as appropriate. If sending information 
directly to the International Section, send it to the attention of 
the person identified in paragraph (l)(2) of this AD. Information 
may be emailed to: 9-ANM-116-AMOC-REQUESTS@faa.gov. 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 EASA; or Airbus 
SAS's EASA DOA. If approved by the DOA, the approval must include 
the DOA-authorized signature.
    (3) Required for Compliance (RC): 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

[[Page 56709]]

maintenance or inspection program without obtaining approval of an 
AMOC, provided the procedures and tests identified as RC can be done 
and the airplane can be put back in an airworthy condition. Any 
substitutions or changes to procedures or tests identified as RC 
require approval of an AMOC.

(l) Related Information

    (1) Refer to Mandatory Continuing Airworthiness Information 
(MCAI) EASA AD 2017-0119, dated July 11, 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-2018-0297.
    (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) 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 this AD specifies otherwise.
    (i) Airbus Service Bulletin A320-32-1203, Revision 02, dated 
February 9, 2001.
    (ii) Airbus Service Bulletin A320-32-1415, Revision 02, dated 
December 10, 2015.
    (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.
    (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 5, 2018.
Christopher Spangenberg,
Acting Director, System Oversight Division, Aircraft Certification 
Service.
[FR Doc. 2018-24688 Filed 11-13-18; 8:45 am]
 BILLING CODE 4910-13-P



     56704        Federal Register / Vol. 83, No. 220 / Wednesday, November 14, 2018 / Rules and Regulations

     under the criteria of the Regulatory                    Instructions of Airbus Service Bulletin A350–            (i) Airbus Service Bulletin A350–53–P024,
     Flexibility Act.                                        53–P024, dated April 3, 2018.                         dated April 3, 2018.
                                                                                                                      (ii) [Reserved]
     List of Subjects in 14 CFR Part 39                      (h) Other FAA AD Provisions                              (3) For service information identified in
                                                               The following provisions also apply to this         this AD, contact Airbus SAS, Airworthiness
       Air transportation, Aircraft, Aviation                AD:                                                   Office—EAL, Rond-Point Emile Dewoitine
     safety, Incorporation by reference,                       (1) Alternative Methods of Compliance               No: 2, 31700 Blagnac Cedex, France;
     Safety.                                                 (AMOCs): The Manager, International                   telephone +33 5 61 93 36 96; fax +33 5 61
                                                             Section, Transport Standards Branch, FAA,             93 45 80; email continued-
     Adoption of the Amendment                               has the authority to approve AMOCs for this           airworthiness.a350@airbus.com; internet
       Accordingly, under the authority                      AD, if requested using the procedures found           http://www.airbus.com.
     delegated to me by the Administrator,                   in 14 CFR 39.19. In accordance with 14 CFR               (4) You may view this service information
     the FAA amends 14 CFR part 39 as                        39.19, send your request to your principal            at the FAA, Transport Standards Branch,
     follows:                                                inspector or local Flight Standards District          2200 South 216th St., Des Moines, WA. For
                                                             Office, as appropriate. If sending information        information on the availability of this
     PART 39—AIRWORTHINESS                                   directly to the International Section, send it        material at the FAA, call 206–231–3195.
                                                             to the attention of the person identified in             (5) You may view this service information
     DIRECTIVES                                              paragraph (i)(2) of this AD. Information may          that is incorporated by reference at the
                                                             be emailed to: 9-ANM–116-AMOC-                        National Archives and Records
     ■ 1. The authority citation for part 39
                                                             REQUESTS@faa.gov. Before using any                    Administration (NARA). For information on
     continues to read as follows:                           approved AMOC, notify your appropriate                the availability of this material at NARA, call
         Authority: 49 U.S.C. 106(g), 40113, 44701.          principal inspector, or lacking a principal           202–741–6030, or go to: http://
                                                             inspector, the manager of the local flight            www.archives.gov/federal-register/cfr/ibr-
     § 39.13   [Amended]                                     standards district office/certificate holding         locations.html.
     ■ 2. The FAA amends § 39.13 by adding                   district office.
                                                                                                                     Issued in Des Moines, Washington, on
                                                               (2) Contacting the Manufacturer: For any
     the following new airworthiness                                                                               November 2, 2018.
                                                             requirement in this AD to obtain corrective
     directive (AD):                                         actions from a manufacturer, the action must          Jeffrey E. Duven,
     2018–23–07 Airbus SAS: Amendment 39–                    be accomplished using a method approved               Director, System Oversight Division, Aircraft
         19493; Docket No. FAA–2018–0758;                    by the Manager, International Section,                Certification Service.
         Product Identifier 2018–NM–093–AD.                  Transport Standards Branch, FAA; or the               [FR Doc. 2018–24683 Filed 11–13–18; 8:45 am]
                                                             European Aviation Safety Agency (EASA); or
     (a) Effective Date                                      Airbus SAS’s EASA Design Organization
                                                                                                                   BILLING CODE 4910–13–P

       This AD is effective December 19, 2018.               Approval (DOA). If approved by the DOA,
                                                             the approval must include the DOA-
     (b) Affected ADs                                        authorized signature.                                 DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION
       None.                                                   (3) Required for Compliance (RC): If any
                                                             service information contains procedures or            Federal Aviation Administration
     (c) Applicability
                                                             tests that are identified as RC, those
        This AD applies to Airbus SAS Model                  procedures and tests must be done to comply           14 CFR Part 39
     A350–941 airplanes, certificated in any                 with this AD; any procedures or tests that are
     category, except those on which Airbus                                                                        [Docket No. FAA–2018–0297; Product
                                                             not identified as RC are recommended. Those
     modification 110319 or Airbus modification                                                                    Identifier 2017–NM–181–AD; Amendment
                                                             procedures and tests that are not identified
     110348 has been embodied in production.                                                                       39–19497; AD 2018–23–11]
                                                             as RC may be deviated from using accepted
                                                             methods in accordance with the operator’s             RIN 2120–AA64
     (d) Subject
                                                             maintenance or inspection program without
       Air Transport Association (ATA) of                    obtaining approval of an AMOC, provided               Airworthiness Directives; Airbus SAS
     America Code 53, Fuselage.                              the procedures and tests identified as RC can         Airplanes
     (e) Reason                                              be done and the airplane can be put back in
                                                             an airworthy condition. Any substitutions or          AGENCY:  Federal Aviation
        This AD was prompted by a review of the              changes to procedures or tests identified as          Administration (FAA), Department of
     Airbus A350 structure design principles                 RC require approval of an AMOC.                       Transportation (DOT).
     database for type definition that revealed that
     the balancer fitting part, installed on the tail        (i) Related Information                               ACTION: Final rule.
     cone, lower section of frame (FR) 103, has                 (1) Refer to Mandatory Continuing
     several corrosion-resistant stainless steel nuts
                                                                                                                   SUMMARY:   We are adopting a new
                                                             Airworthiness Information (MCAI) EASA AD
     installed on elementary aluminum parts, and             2018–0123, dated June 4, 2018, for related            airworthiness directive (AD) for certain
     this configuration does not meet the                    information. This MCAI may be found in the            Airbus SAS Model A319 series
     requirements for protection against corrosion.          AD docket on the internet at http://                  airplanes; Model A320–211, –212, –214,
     We are issuing this AD to address this                  www.regulations.gov by searching for and              –231, –232, and –233 airplanes; and
     condition, which if not corrected, could                locating Docket No. FAA–2018–0758.                    Model A321–111, –112, –131, –211,
     reduce the structural integrity of the airplane.           (2) For more information about this AD,            –212, –213, –231, and –232 airplanes.
                                                             contact Kathleen Arrigotti, Aerospace                 This AD was prompted by
     (f) Compliance                                          Engineer, International Section, Transport
        Comply with this AD within the
                                                                                                                   investigations that revealed that the
                                                             Standards Branch, FAA, 2200 South 216th
     compliance times specified, unless already              St., Des Moines, WA 98198; telephone and              cover seal of the brake dual distribution
     done.                                                   fax 206–231–3218.                                     valve (BDDV) was damaged and did not
                                                                                                                   ensure efficient sealing. This AD
     (g) Required Action                                     (j) Material Incorporated by Reference                requires identifying the BDDV part
        Within 72 months since the date of                      (1) The Director of the Federal Register           number installed on the airplane, and
     issuance of the original airworthiness                  approved the incorporation by reference               modifying or replacing BDDVs having
     certificate or the date of issuance of the              (IBR) of the service information listed in this       certain part numbers. We are issuing
     original export certificate of airworthiness,           paragraph under 5 U.S.C. 552(a) and 1 CFR
     apply additional overcoat sealant and elastic           part 51.
                                                                                                                   this AD to address the unsafe condition
     varnish to the fastener heads and the anchor               (2) You must use this service information          on these products.
     nuts of the balancer fitting at FR 103, in              as applicable to do the actions required by           DATES: This AD is effective December
     accordance with the Accomplishment                      this AD, unless this AD specifies otherwise.          19, 2018.


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                  Federal Register / Vol. 83, No. 220 / Wednesday, November 14, 2018 / Rules and Regulations                                             56705

        The Director of the Federal Register                   We are issuing this AD to address                   need for correction and clarification.
     approved the incorporation by reference                 water ingestion in the BDDV, freezing of              Consequently, this [EASA] AD retains the
     of certain publications listed in this AD               the BDDV in flight, and consequent loss               requirements of EASA AD 2014–0251R1,
     as of December 19, 2018.                                of braking system function after landing.             which is superseded, and expands the list of
                                                                                                                   BDDV Part Numbers (P/N) which must be
     ADDRESSES: For service information                      These conditions could possibly result                removed from service and are no longer
     identified in this final rule, contact                  in damage to the airplane and injury to               eligible for installation on an aeroplane [and
     Airbus SAS, Airworthiness Office—                       occupants.                                            includes replacing affected part numbers as
     EIAS, Rond-Point Emile Dewoitine No:                      The European Aviation Safety Agency                 an option]. This [EASA] AD also clarifies the
     2, 31700 Blagnac Cedex, France;                         (EASA), which is the Technical Agent                  intended requirements of EASA AD 2014–
     telephone +33 5 61 93 36 96; fax +33 5                  for the Member States of the European                 0251 and introduces editorial changes, not
     61 93 44 51; email account.airworth-                    Union, has issued EASA AD 2017–0119,                  affecting the requirements.
     eas@airbus.com; internet http://                        dated July 11, 2017 (referred to after this             You may examine the MCAI in the
     www.airbus.com. You may view this                       as the Mandatory Continuing                           AD docket on the internet at http://
     service information at the FAA,                         Airworthiness Information, or ‘‘the                   www.regulations.gov by searching for
     Transport Standards Branch, 2200                        MCAI’’), to correct an unsafe condition               and locating Docket No. FAA–2018–
     South 216th St., Des Moines, WA. For                    for certain Airbus SAS Model A319                     0297.
     information on the availability of this                 series airplanes; Model A320–211, –212,
     material at the FAA, call 206–231–3195.                 –214, –231, –232, and –233 airplanes;                 Comments
     It is also available on the internet at                 and Model A321–111, –112, –131, –211,                   We gave the public the opportunity to
     http://www.regulations.gov by searching                 –212, –213, –231, and –232 airplanes.                 participate in developing this final rule.
     for and locating Docket No. FAA–2018–                   The MCAI states:                                      The following presents the comments
     0297.                                                      In 1998, an operator experienced a dual            received on the NPRM and the FAA’s
     Examining the AD Docket
                                                             loss of braking systems. Investigation results        response to each comment.
                                                             revealed that the cover seal of the BDDV was
        You may examine the AD docket on                     damaged and did not ensure the sealing                Supportive Comments
     the internet at http://                                 efficiency.                                             Air Line Pilots Association,
     www.regulations.gov by searching for                       This condition, if not corrected, could lead       International stated its support for the
     and locating Docket No. FAA–2018–                       to water ingestion in the BDDV, freezing of
                                                             the BDDV in flight, and consequent loss of
                                                                                                                   NPRM. In addition, United Airlines
     0297; or in person at Docket Operations                                                                       (UAL) stated it concurs with the
                                                             braking system function after landing,
     between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m., Monday                       possibly resulting in damage to the aeroplane         expansion of the affected BDDV part
     through Friday, except Federal holidays.                and injury to occupants.                              numbers as identified in Figure 1 to
     The AD docket contains this final rule,                    To address this potential unsafe condition,        paragraphs (g) and (h) of the proposed
     the regulatory evaluation, any                          Airbus issued Alert Operator Telex (AOT)              AD.
     comments received, and other                            32–19 and Service Bulletin (SB) A320–32–
     information. The address for Docket                     1199, providing instructions for repetitive           Request To Withdraw the NPRM
     Operations (phone: 800–647–5527) is                     functional tests. In addition, Airbus                   Delta Air lines (DAL) requested that
     U.S. Department of Transportation,                      developed mod 28301 and published SB
                                                                                                                   we withdraw the NPRM. DAL stated
                                                             A320–32–1203 to provide modification
     Docket Operations, M–30, West                                                                                 that the NPRM does not address an
                                                             instructions.
     Building Ground Floor, Room W12–140,                       Consequently, DGAC [Directorate General            unsafe condition and, therefore, it is
     1200 New Jersey Avenue SE,                              for Civil Aviation] France issued AD 2000–            unnecessary. DAL commented that
     Washington, DC 20590.                                   258–146 [which corresponds to FAA AD                  airplanes included in paragraph (c) of
     FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT:                        2001–15–10, Amendment 39–12344 (66 FR                 the proposed AD are already required to
     Sanjay Ralhan, Aerospace Engineer,                      39413, July 31, 2001) (‘‘AD 2001–15–10’’)] to         comply with the actions required by AD
     International Section, Transport                        require repetitive functional tests as a              2001–15–10, depending on modification
     Standards Branch, FAA, 2200 South                       temporary solution (valid for a period of 15          status. DAL also commented that the
                                                             months) and modification of the BDDV with
     216th St., Des Moines, WA 98198;                                                                              NPRM does not add any airplanes to the
                                                             a new cover and installation of a draining
     telephone and fax 206–231–3223.                         tube with a cap, which was terminating                applicability of AD 2001–15–10 and
     SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION:                              action for the repetitive functional tests. For       2016–06–13. DAL stated that tracking
                                                             pre-mod 27833 and pre-SB A320–32–1200                 compliance with the redundant
     Discussion                                              aeroplanes, repetitive inspections per SB             requirements of the proposed AD would
       We issued a notice of proposed                        A320–32–1199 were required as interim                 place an undue burden on airlines.
     rulemaking (NPRM) to amend 14 CFR                       action, prior to the terminating action                 DAL stated that paragraphs (j)(1)(i)
     part 39 by adding an AD that would                      modification per SB A320–32–1203.                     and (j)(2)(i) of the proposed AD give
     apply to certain Airbus SAS Model                          After that [DGAC] AD was issued,                   credit for actions accomplished using
                                                             following a new event, Airbus developed a
     A319 series airplanes; Model A320–211,                  new modification of the BDDV drain tube
                                                                                                                   previously issued service information.
     –212, –214, –231, –232, and –233                        which leaves it open, ensuring continuous             DAL commented that FAA Letter ANM–
     airplanes; and Model A321–111, –112,                    drainage of any ingested water, thereby               116–16–491, dated September 27, 2016,
     –131, –211, –212, –213, –231, and –232                  preventing freezing of the brake system.              gives operators the authority to
     airplanes. The NPRM published in the                       Consequently, EASA issued AD 2014–0251             accomplish paragraph (g) of AD 2016–
     Federal Register on April 17, 2018 (83                  (later revised), partially retaining the              06–13 as an alternative method of
     FR 16799). The NPRM was prompted by                     requirements of DGAC France AD 2000–258–              compliance (AMOC), and it is also a
     investigations that revealed that the                   146, which was superseded, and requiring an           terminating action for the actions
     cover seal of the BDDV was damaged                      additional modification of the BDDV drain             required by paragraphs (e) and (f) of AD
                                                             tube and re-identification of the BDDV.
     and did not ensure efficient sealing. The                  Since EASA AD 2014–0251R1 [which
                                                                                                                   2001–15–10. DAL stated that the
     NPRM proposed to require identifying                    corresponds to FAA AD 2016–06–13,                     compliance times for AD 2001–15–10
     the BDDV part number installed on the                   Amendment 39–18444 (81 FR 17365, March                and AD 2016–06–13 have passed,
     airplane, and modifying or replacing                    29, 2016) (‘‘AD 2016–06–13’’)] was issued,            therefore, all airplanes must be in
     BDDVs having certain part numbers.                      comments were received that indicated a               compliance.


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     56706        Federal Register / Vol. 83, No. 220 / Wednesday, November 14, 2018 / Rules and Regulations

        We partially agree with the                          proposed AD after the word                            non-permitted area, replace the BDDV
     commenter’s request. We agree that                      ‘‘corrective.’’ We agree and have added               before further flight. We have not
     airplanes included in paragraph (c) of                  the missing word accordingly.                         changed this AD in this regard.
     this AD are also required to comply                                                                              As we stated previously, we have
                                                             Request To Revise Certain Wording for
     with AD 2001–15–10 and AD 2016–06–                                                                            revised paragraph (g)(3) of this AD to
                                                             Clarification
     13, and that this AD does not add any                                                                         clarify that operators should replace the
     new Model airplanes related to those                       UAL requested that we revise the                   old part number with a new part
     listed in AD 2001–15–10 and AD 2016–                    wording in certain paragraphs of the                  number as specified in figure 2 to
     06–13. However, as stated in paragraph                  proposed AD for clarification. UAL                    paragraphs (g)(3) and (h)(2) of this AD.
     (i) of this AD, compliance with                         suggested that paragraph (g)(3) of the                   We agree to clarify the compliance
     paragraph (g) of this AD terminates the                 proposed AD be reworded because the                   requirements of paragraph (h)(2) of this
     requirements in paragraphs (e) and (f) of               way it is currently written, it could be              AD. As stated in the previous comment
     AD 2001–15–10 (which terminates all                     interpreted as ‘‘a part number specified              response, paragraph (h) is intended to
     requirements of AD 2001–15–10 for                       as new P/N in figure 2 to paragraphs                  provide operators flexibility by
     Model A318, A319 and A320 series                        (g)(3) and (h)(2)’’ cannot be installed.              providing the full compliance time as
     airplanes) and all requirements of AD                      UAL also suggested that paragraph (h)              specified in paragraph (g) to modify or
     2016–06–13. For clarification, we have                  of the proposed AD be revised to                      replace discrepant parts. However,
     modified paragraph (i)(1) of this AD to                 eliminate paragraphs (h)(1) and (h)(2)                paragraph (h)(2) of this AD specifically
     state that compliance with paragraph (g)                and be reworded to simply prohibit the                prohibits installation of a discrepant
     of this AD terminates all requirements                  installation of affected BDDVs as                     part as of the effective date of this AD
     of AD 2001–15–10 for Model A319,                        specified in figure 1 to paragraphs (g)               if the discrepant part has already been
     A320 and A321 series airplanes. We                      and (h) of the proposed AD.                           modified or replaced as of the effective
     agree that operators will be required to                   We partially agree to the commenter’s              date of this AD. Paragraph (h)(1) of this
     track certain ADs with expired                          requests. We agree to clarify paragraph               AD prohibits installation of a discrepant
     compliance times, but we are in process                 (g)(3) of this AD. We have revised                    part as of the effective date of this AD,
     of rescinding some of those ADs through                 paragraph (g)(3) of this AD to clarify that           if a discrepant part is currently installed
     future rulemaking. We agree that AMOC                   operators should replace the old part                 as of the effective of this AD, but is
     letter ANM–116–16–491 dated                             number with a new part number as                      modified or replaced after the effective
     September 27, 2016, will still be                       specified in figure 2 to paragraphs (g)(3)            date of this AD. Operators have the
     applicable to AD 2016–06–13.                            and (h)(2) of this AD.                                discretion to prohibit operation with a
        We disagree with the commenter’s                        However, we disagree to simply                     discrepant part in figure 1 to paragraphs
     request to withdraw this AD. We, along                  prohibit installation of discrepant parts             (g) and (h) of this AD from the effective
     with EASA, have determined that water                   that are specified in figure 1 to                     date of this AD. We have not changed
     ingestion in the BDDV, freezing of the                  paragraphs (g) and (h) of this AD from                the AD in this regard.
     BDDV in flight, and consequent loss of                  the effective date of this AD. Paragraph
     braking system function after landing,                  (h) provides operators flexibility by                 Conclusion
     could possibly result in damage to the                  providing the full compliance time as                    We reviewed the relevant data,
     airplane and injury to occupants, and                   specified in paragraph (g) to modify or               considered the comments received, and
     therefore, does constitute an unsafe                    replace discrepant parts, unless the                  determined that air safety and the
     condition, and that additional                          discrepant part is either currently                   public interest require adopting this
     mandatory actions in this AD are                        installed as of the effective date of this            final rule with the changes described
     required to mitigate the risks associated               AD and is subsequently modified or                    previously and minor editorial changes.
     with the unsafe condition. Further, even                replaced (after the effective date of this            We have determined that these minor
     if the current U.S.-Registered fleet is in              AD) as stated in paragraph (h)(1) of this             changes:
     compliance with the requirements of                     AD, or has already been modified or                      • Are consistent with the intent that
     this AD, the issuance of the rule is still              replaced as of the effective date of this             was proposed in the NPRM for
     necessary to ensure that any affected                   AD as stated in paragraph (h)(2) of this              addressing the unsafe condition; and
     airplane imported and placed on the                     AD. Operators have the discretion to                     • Do not add any additional burden
     U.S. Register in the future would be                    prohibit operation with a discrepant                  upon the public than was already
     required to be in compliance as well.                   part in figure 1 to paragraphs (g) and (h)            proposed in the NPRM.
     This AD expands the list of BDDV part                   of this AD from the effective date of this               We also determined that these
     numbers, which must be removed from                     AD. We have not changed the AD in this                changes will not increase the economic
     service and are no longer eligible for                  regard.                                               burden on any operator or increase the
     installation on an airplane. Therefore,                                                                       scope of this final rule.
     all U.S.-Registered airplanes might not                 Request To Clarify the Compliance
                                                             Requirements                                          Related Service Information Under 1
     be in compliance with the actions of
                                                                JetBlue requested that we clarify the              CFR Part 51
     this AD even when in full compliance
     with AD 2001–15–10 and AD 2016–06–                      compliance requirements in paragraphs                   Airbus SAS has issued Service
     13. However, if DAL concludes that it is                (g)(2), (g)(3), and (h)(2) of the proposed            Bulletin A320–32–1203, Revision 02,
     in compliance with the requirements of                  AD because of contradictory                           dated February 9, 2001. This service
     this AD, then it may utilize the                        requirements. The commenter did not                   information describes procedures for
     provision in paragraph (f) to                           clearly identify which requirements                   identifying the BDDV part number
     demonstrate compliance. We have not                     needed clarification.                                 installed on the airplane, and modifying
     changed this AD in this regard.                            We do not agree to revise paragraph                or replacing BDDVs having certain part
                                                             (g)(2) of this AD. This AD and the                    numbers.
     Request To Correct Certain Wording                      Accomplishment Instructions of Airbus                   Airbus SAS has also issued Service
       DAL observed that the word ‘‘actions’’                Service Bulletin A320–32–1415,                        Bulletin A320–32–1415, Revision 02,
     was inadvertently omitted from the first                Revision 02, dated December 10, 2015,                 dated December 10, 2015. This service
     sentence in paragraph (g)(2) of the                     specify that, if corrosion is found in a              information describes procedures for


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                  Federal Register / Vol. 83, No. 220 / Wednesday, November 14, 2018 / Rules and Regulations                                                    56707

     modifying and re-identifying the BDDV.                   inspection for corrosion. Corrective                     Costs of Compliance
     The modification includes modifying                      actions include replacing the BDDV.
     the drain hose of the BDDV, and doing                      This service information is reasonably                   We estimate that this AD affects 1,136
     all related investigative and corrective                 available because the interested parties                 airplanes of U.S. registry.
     actions if applicable. The related                       have access to it through their normal                     We estimate the following costs to
     investigative actions include an                         course of business or by the means                       comply with this AD:
                                                              identified in the ADDRESSES section.
                                                                            ESTIMATED COSTS
                                                                                                                                 Cost per             Cost on U.S.
                       Action                                           Labor cost                        Parts cost             product               operators

     Identification and modification or re-             Up to 6 work-hours × $85 per hour =            Up to $395 .......   Up to $905 .......   Up to $1,028,080.
       placement.                                         $510.



       We have received no definitive data                    distribution of power and                                13, Amendment 39–18444 (81 FR 17365,
     that would enable us to provide cost                     responsibilities among the various                       March 29, 2016) (‘‘AD 2016–06–13’’).
     estimates for the on-condition actions                   levels of government.                                    (c) Applicability
     specified in this AD.                                      For the reasons discussed above, I                        This AD applies to the airplanes identified
                                                              certify that this AD:                                    in paragraphs (c)(1) through (c)(3) of this AD,
     Authority for This Rulemaking
                                                                (1) Is not a ‘‘significant regulatory                  certificated in any category, all manufacturer
        Title 49 of the United States Code                    action’’ under Executive Order 12866,                    serial numbers, except those on which
     specifies the FAA’s authority to issue                     (2) Is not a ‘‘significant rule’’ under                Airbus Modification 26925 has been
     rules on aviation safety. Subtitle I,                    the DOT Regulatory Policies and                          embodied in production, which introduces a
     section 106, describes the authority of                  Procedures (44 FR 11034, February 26,                    modified alternate braking system that
     the FAA Administrator. Subtitle VII:                     1979),                                                   removes the brake dual distribution valve
     Aviation Programs, describes in more                       (3) Will not affect intrastate aviation                (BDDV).
     detail the scope of the Agency’s                                                                                     (1) Airbus SAS Model A319–111, –112,
                                                              in Alaska, and                                           –113, –114, –115, –131, –132, and –133
     authority.                                                 (4) Will not have a significant                        airplanes.
        We are issuing this rulemaking under                  economic impact, positive or negative,                      (2) Airbus SAS Model A320–211, –212,
     the authority described in Subtitle VII,                 on a substantial number of small entities                –214, –231, –232, and –233 airplanes.
     Part A, Subpart III, Section 44701:                      under the criteria of the Regulatory                        (3) Airbus SAS Model A321–111, –112,
     ‘‘General requirements.’’ Under that                     Flexibility Act.                                         –131,–211,–212, –213, –231, and –232
     section, Congress charges the FAA with                                                                            airplanes.
     promoting safe flight of civil aircraft in               List of Subjects in 14 CFR Part 39
                                                                                                                       (d) Subject
     air commerce by prescribing regulations                    Air transportation, Aircraft, Aviation
                                                                                                                         Air Transport Association (ATA) of
     for practices, methods, and procedures                   safety, Incorporation by reference,                      America Code 32, Landing gear.
     the Administrator finds necessary for                    Safety.
     safety in air commerce. This regulation                                                                           (e) Reason
                                                              Adoption of the Amendment
     is within the scope of that authority                                                                                This AD was prompted by investigations
     because it addresses an unsafe condition                   Accordingly, under the authority                       that revealed that the cover seal of the brake
     that is likely to exist or develop on                    delegated to me by the Administrator,                    dual distribution valve (BDDV) was damaged
     products identified in this rulemaking                   the FAA amends 14 CFR part 39 as                         and did not ensure efficient sealing. We are
     action.                                                  follows:                                                 issuing this AD to prevent water ingestion in
                                                                                                                       the BDDV, freezing of the BDDV in flight, and
        This AD is issued in accordance with                                                                           consequent loss of braking system function
     authority delegated by the Executive                     PART 39—AIRWORTHINESS
                                                              DIRECTIVES                                               after landing. These conditions could
     Director, Aircraft Certification Service,                                                                         possibly result in damage to the airplane and
     as authorized by FAA Order 8000.51C.                                                                              injury to occupants.
                                                              ■ 1. The authority citation for part 39
     In accordance with that order, issuance
                                                              continues to read as follows:                            (f) Compliance
     of ADs is normally a function of the
     Compliance and Airworthiness                                 Authority: 49 U.S.C. 106(g), 40113, 44701.              Comply with this AD within the
     Division, but during this transition                                                                              compliance times specified, unless already
                                                              § 39.13    [Amended]                                     done.
     period, the Executive Director has
     delegated the authority to issue ADs                     ■ 2. The FAA amends § 39.13 by adding                    (g) Identification and Modification or
     applicable to transport category                         the following new airworthiness                          Replacement
     airplanes and associated appliances to                   directive (AD):                                             Within 3 months after the effective date of
     the Director of the System Oversight                     2018–23–11 Airbus SAS: Amendment 39–                     this AD, identify the BDDV part number
     Division.                                                    19497; Docket No. FAA–2018–0297;                     installed on the airplane. For each affected
                                                                  Product Identifier 2017–NM–181–AD.                   BDDV part number specified in figure 1 to
     Regulatory Findings                                                                                               paragraphs (g) and (h) of this AD, within 3
                                                              (a) Effective Date                                       months after the effective date of this AD, do
       This AD will not have federalism
                                                                This AD is effective December 19, 2018.                the actions in paragraph (g)(1), (g)(2), or (g)(3)
     implications under Executive Order                                                                                of this AD. A review of airplane maintenance
     13132. This AD will not have a                           (b) Affected ADs                                         records is acceptable to identify the BDDV
     substantial direct effect on the States, on                This AD affects AD 2001–15–10,                         part number if the part number of the BDDV
     the relationship between the national                    Amendment 39–12344 (66 FR 39413, July 31,                can be conclusively determined from that
     government and the States, or on the                     2001) (‘‘AD 2001–15–10’’), and AD 2016–06–               review.




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     56708        Federal Register / Vol. 83, No. 220 / Wednesday, November 14, 2018 / Rules and Regulations




       (1) Modify and re-identify the affected               Instructions of Airbus Service Bulletin A320–         paragraphs (g)(3) and (h)(2) of this AD. Do the
     BDDV, in accordance with the                            32–1415, Revision 02, dated December 10,              replacement using a method approved by the
     Accomplishment Instructions of Airbus                   2015. Do all applicable related investigative         Manager, International Section, Transport
     Service Bulletin A320–32–1203, Revision 02,             and corrective actions before further flight.         Standards Branch, FAA; or the European
     dated February 9, 2001.                                    (3) Replace the affected BDDV with a               Aviation Safety Agency (EASA); or Airbus
       (2) Modify and re-identify the affected               BDDV having a part number not specified in
     BDDV, and do all applicable related                     figure 1 to paragraphs (g) and (h) of this AD,        SAS’s EASA Design Organization Approval
     investigative and corrective actions, in                or replace the old part number with a new             (DOA). If approved by the DOA, the approval
     accordance with the Accomplishment                      part number as specified in figure 2 to               must include the DOA-authorized signature.




     (h) Parts Installation Prohibition                      (j) Credit for Previous Actions                       in 14 CFR 39.19. In accordance with 14 CFR
        As of the applicable time specified in                  (1) This paragraph provides credit for             39.19, send your request to your principal
                                                             actions required by paragraph (g)(1) of this          inspector or local Flight Standards District
     paragraph (h)(1) or (h)(2) of this AD, no
                                                             AD, if those actions were performed before            Office, as appropriate. If sending information
     person may install a BDDV having a part
                                                             the effective date of this AD using the service       directly to the International Section, send it
     number specified in figure 1 to paragraphs (g)                                                                to the attention of the person identified in
                                                             information in paragraphs (j)(1)(i) or (j)(1)(ii)
     and (h) of this AD, on any airplane.                                                                          paragraph (l)(2) of this AD. Information may
                                                             of this AD.
        (1) For any airplane that, on the effective                                                                be emailed to: 9-ANM-116-AMOC-
                                                                (i) Airbus Service Bulletin A320–32–1203,
     date of this AD, has a BDDV installed with              dated June 4, 1999, which was incorporated            REQUESTS@faa.gov. Before using any
     a part number specified in figure 1 to                  by reference in AD 2001–15–10.                        approved AMOC, notify your appropriate
     paragraphs (g) and (h) of this AD: After                   (ii) Airbus Service Bulletin A320–32–1203,         principal inspector, or lacking a principal
     modification or replacement of the BDDV, as             Revision 01, dated October 12, 2000.                  inspector, the manager of the local flight
     required by paragraph (g) of this AD.                      (2) This paragraph provides credit for             standards district office/certificate holding
        (2) For any airplane that, on the effective          actions required by paragraph (g)(2) of this          district office.
     date of this AD, has a BDDV installed or                AD, if those actions were performed before              (2) Contacting the Manufacturer: For any
     replaced with a part number specified as                the effective date of this AD using the service       requirement in this AD to obtain corrective
     ‘new P/N’ in figure 2 to paragraphs (g)(3) and          information in paragraphs (j)(2)(i) or (j)(2)(ii)     actions from a manufacturer, the action must
     (h)(2) of this AD, or has a BDDV installed or           of this AD.                                           be accomplished using a method approved
     replaced with a part number not specified in               (i) Airbus Service Bulletin A320–32–1415,          by the Manager, International Section,
                                                             dated September 2, 2014, which was                    Transport Standards Branch, FAA; or the
     figure 1 to paragraphs (g) and (h) of this AD:
                                                             incorporated by reference in AD 2016–06–13.           EASA; or Airbus SAS’s EASA DOA. If
     As of the effective date of this AD.
                                                                (ii) Airbus Service Bulletin A320–32–1415,         approved by the DOA, the approval must
     (i) Terminating Action for Other ADs                    Revision 01, dated April 23, 2015.                    include the DOA-authorized signature.
                                                                                                                     (3) Required for Compliance (RC): If any
       (1) Doing the actions in paragraph (g) of             (k) Other FAA AD Provisions                           service information contains procedures or
     this AD terminates the requirements in                    The following provisions also apply to this         tests that are identified as RC, those
                                                                                                                                                                     ER14NO18.002</GPH>




     paragraphs (e) and (f) of AD 2001–15–10 for             AD:                                                   procedures and tests must be done to comply
     Model A319, A320 and A321 series                          (1) Alternative Methods of Compliance               with this AD; any procedures or tests that are
     airplanes.                                              (AMOCs): The Manager, International                   not identified as RC are recommended. Those
       (2) Doing the actions in paragraph (g) of             Section, Transport Standards Branch, FAA,             procedures and tests that are not identified
     this AD terminates all of the requirements of           has the authority to approve AMOCs for this           as RC may be deviated from using accepted
                                                                                                                                                                     ER14NO18.001</GPH>




     AD 2016–06–13.                                          AD, if requested using the procedures found           methods in accordance with the operator’s



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                  Federal Register / Vol. 83, No. 220 / Wednesday, November 14, 2018 / Rules and Regulations                                             56709

     maintenance or inspection program without               DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION                          Building Ground Floor, Room W12–140,
     obtaining approval of an AMOC, provided                                                                       1200 New Jersey Avenue SE,
     the procedures and tests identified as RC can           Federal Aviation Administration                       Washington, DC 20590.
     be done and the airplane can be put back in
                                                                                                                   FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT:
     an airworthy condition. Any substitutions or            14 CFR Part 39                                        Kathleen Arrigotti, Aerospace Engineer,
     changes to procedures or tests identified as
                                                             [Docket No. FAA–2018–0637; Product                    International Section, Transport
     RC require approval of an AMOC.
                                                             Identifier 2018–NM–091–AD; Amendment                  Standards Branch, FAA, 2200 South
     (l) Related Information                                 39–19496; AD 2018–23–10]                              216th St., Des Moines, WA 98198;
       (1) Refer to Mandatory Continuing                     RIN 2120–AA64                                         telephone and fax 206–231–3218.
     Airworthiness Information (MCAI) EASA AD                                                                      SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION:
     2017–0119, dated July 11, 2017, for related             Airworthiness Directives; Airbus SAS
                                                             Airplanes                                             Discussion
     information. This MCAI may be found in the
     AD docket on the internet at http://                                                                             We issued a notice of proposed
                                                             AGENCY:  Federal Aviation
     www.regulations.gov by searching for and                                                                      rulemaking (NPRM) to amend 14 CFR
                                                             Administration (FAA), Department of
     locating Docket No. FAA–2018–0297.                                                                            part 39 by adding an AD that would
       (2) For more information about this AD,
                                                             Transportation (DOT).
                                                                                                                   apply to certain Airbus SAS Model
     contact Sanjay Ralhan, Aerospace Engineer,              ACTION: Final rule.                                   A350–941 airplanes. The NPRM
     International Section, Transport Standards                                                                    published in the Federal Register on
     Branch, FAA, 2200 South 216th St., Des
                                                             SUMMARY:    We are adopting a new
                                                             airworthiness directive (AD) for certain              August 2, 2018 (83 FR 37766). The
     Moines, WA 98198; telephone and fax 206–                                                                      NPRM was prompted by leakage of
     231–3223.
                                                             Airbus SAS Model A350–941 airplanes.
                                                             This AD was prompted by leakage of                    shrouded pipe T-boxes in the potable
       (3) Service information identified in this                                                                  water system. The NPRM proposed to
     AD that is not incorporated by reference is             shrouded pipe T-boxes in the potable
                                                             water system. This AD requires                        require replacement of the affected
     available at the addresses specified in                                                                       potable water T-boxes and clamps with
     paragraphs (m)(3) and (m)(4) of this AD.                replacement of the affected potable
                                                             water T-boxes and clamps with new                     new parts.
     (m) Material Incorporated by Reference                  parts. We are issuing this AD to address                 We are issuing this AD to address the
        (1) The Director of the Federal Register             the unsafe condition on these products.               possible leakage of water into the
     approved the incorporation by reference
                                                                                                                   avionics bay. This condition, if not
                                                             DATES: This AD is effective December
     (IBR) of the service information listed in this
                                                                                                                   corrected, could lead to the loss of
                                                             19, 2018.                                             systems/equipment located inside the
     paragraph under 5 U.S.C. 552(a) and 1 CFR                  The Director of the Federal Register
     part 51.                                                                                                      avionics bay and possible loss of control
                                                             approved the incorporation by reference               of the airplane.
        (2) You must use this service information            of a certain publication listed in this AD
     as applicable to do the actions required by                                                                      The European Aviation Safety Agency
                                                             as of December 19, 2018.
     this AD, unless this AD specifies otherwise.                                                                  (EASA), which is the Technical Agent
                                                             ADDRESSES: For service information                    for the Member States of the European
        (i) Airbus Service Bulletin A320–32–1203,
                                                             identified in this final rule, contact                Union, has issued EASA AD 2018–
     Revision 02, dated February 9, 2001.
                                                             Airbus SAS, Airworthiness Office—                     0111R1, dated May 30, 2018 (referred to
        (ii) Airbus Service Bulletin A320–32–1415,
                                                             EAL, Rond-Point Emile Dewoitine No:                   after this as the Mandatory Continuing
     Revision 02, dated December 10, 2015.
        (3) For service information identified in
                                                             2, 31700 Blagnac Cedex, France;                       Airworthiness Information, or ‘‘the
     this AD, contact Airbus SAS, Airworthiness
                                                             telephone +33 5 61 93 36 96; fax +33 5                MCAI’’), to correct an unsafe condition
     Office—EIAS, Rond-Point Emile Dewoitine
                                                             61 93 45 80; email continued-                         for certain Airbus SAS Model A350–941
     No: 2, 31700 Blagnac Cedex, France;                     airworthiness.a350@airbus.com;                        airplanes. The MCAI states:
     telephone +33 5 61 93 36 96; fax +33 5 61               internet http://www.airbus.com. You
                                                             may view this service information at the                 During a pressure test on the A350 Final
     93 44 51; email account.airworth-eas@                                                                         Assembly Line (FAL), leakage was observed
     airbus.com; internet http://www.airbus.com.             FAA, Transport Standards Branch, 2200                 on the potable water system shrouded pipes,
        (4) You may view this service information            South 216th St., Des Moines, WA. For                  due to a crack failure on the T-Boxes.
     at the FAA, Transport Standards Branch,                 information on the availability of this               Leakage of a primary pipe may cause water
     2200 South 216th St., Des Moines, WA. For               material at the FAA, call 206–231–3195.               ingress into the avionics bay. Additionally,
     information on the availability of this                 It is also available on the internet at               during another pressure proof test on the
     material at the FAA, call 206–231–3195.                 http://www.regulations.gov by searching               A350 FAL, loss of torque was detected on the
                                                             for and locating Docket No. FAA–2018–                 clamps used to attach the shrouded pipes on
        (5) You may view this service information
                                                             0637.                                                 the T-Boxes.
     that is incorporated by reference at the
                                                                                                                      This condition, if not corrected, could lead
     National Archives and Records                           Examining the AD Docket                               to loss of systems/equipment located inside
     Administration (NARA). For information on                                                                     the avionics bay, possibly resulting in an
     the availability of this material at NARA, call           You may examine the AD docket on                    unsafe condition.
     202–741–6030, or go to: http://                         the internet at http://                                  Prompted by these findings, Airbus
     www.archives.gov/federal-register/cfr/ibr-              www.regulations.gov by searching for                  developed improved potable water T-Boxes
     locations.html.                                         and locating Docket No. FAA–2018–                     and clamps, which are embodied in
                                                             0637; or in person at Docket Operations               production through Airbus mod 111435 or
       Issued in Des Moines, Washington, on                                                                        mod 111440, and introduced in service
                                                             between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m., Monday
     November 5, 2018.                                                                                             through the SB [Service Bulletin A350–38–
                                                             through Friday, except Federal holidays.
     Christopher Spangenberg,                                The AD docket contains this final rule,               P004].
     Acting Director, System Oversight Division,             the regulatory evaluation, any                           For the reasons described above, this
     Aircraft Certification Service.                                                                               [EASA] AD requires replacement of the
                                                             comments received, and other                          affected potable water shrouded pipe
     [FR Doc. 2018–24688 Filed 11–13–18; 8:45 am]            information. The address for Docket                   T-Boxes and clamps with new parts.
     BILLING CODE 4910–13–P                                  Operations (phone: 800–647–5527) is                      This [EASA] AD was revised to exclude
                                                             U.S. Department of Transportation,                    post-mod 111440 aeroplanes from the
                                                             Docket Operations, M–30, West                         Applicability.



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Document Created: 2018-11-14 03:32:16
Document Modified: 2018-11-14 03:32:16
CategoryRegulatory Information
CollectionFederal Register
sudoc ClassAE 2.7:
GS 4.107:
AE 2.106:
PublisherOffice of the Federal Register, National Archives and Records Administration
SectionRules and Regulations
ActionFinal rule.
DatesThis AD is effective December 19, 2018.
ContactSanjay Ralhan, Aerospace Engineer, International Section, Transport Standards Branch, FAA, 2200 South 216th St., Des Moines, WA 98198; telephone and fax 206-231-3223.
FR Citation83 FR 56704 
RIN Number2120-AA64
CFR AssociatedAir Transportation; Aircraft; Aviation Safety; Incorporation by Reference and Safety

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