83 FR 5960 - Airworthiness Directives; Airbus Airplanes
DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION
Federal Aviation Administration Federal Register Volume 83, Issue 29 (February 12, 2018)
Federal Aviation Administration
Federal Register Volume 83, Issue 29 (February 12, 2018)
| Page Range | 5960-5963 | |
| FR Document | 2018-02754 |
[Federal Register Volume 83, Number 29 (Monday, February 12, 2018)] [Proposed Rules] [Pages 5960-5963] From the Federal Register Online [www.thefederalregister.org] [FR Doc No: 2018-02754] ----------------------------------------------------------------------- DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION Federal Aviation Administration 14 CFR Part 39 [Docket No. FAA-2018-0077; Product Identifier 2017-NM-126-AD] RIN 2120-AA64 Airworthiness Directives; Airbus Airplanes AGENCY: Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), DOT. ACTION: Notice of proposed rulemaking (NPRM). ----------------------------------------------------------------------- SUMMARY: We propose to adopt a new airworthiness directive (AD) for certain Airbus Model A319 and A320 series airplanes; and A321-111, - 112, -131, -211, -212, -213, -231, and -232 airplanes. This proposed AD was prompted by reports of battery retaining rod failures due to quality defects of the material used during parts manufacturing. This proposed AD would require a detailed inspection of the battery retaining rods to identify the rod manufacturer, replacement of the battery retaining rods with serviceable rods if necessary, and the addition of the applicable service information label on each rod if necessary. We are proposing this AD to address the unsafe condition on these products. DATES: We must receive comments on this proposed AD by March 29, 2018. ADDRESSES: You may send comments, using the procedures found in 14 CFR 11.43 and 11.45, by any of the following methods:Federal eRulemaking Portal: Go to http://www.regulations.gov. Follow the instructions for submitting comments. Fax: 202-493-2251. Mail: U.S. Department of Transportation, Docket Operations, M-30, West Building Ground Floor, Room W12-140, 1200 New Jersey Avenue SE, Washington, DC 20590. Hand Delivery: Deliver to Mail address above between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m., Monday through Friday, except Federal holidays. For service information identified in this NPRM, contact Airbus, Airworthiness Office--EIAS, 1 Rond Point Maurice Bellonte, 31707 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, 1601 Lind Avenue SW, Renton, WA. For information on the availability of this material at the FAA, call 425- 227-1221. 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- 0077; or in person at the Docket Management Facility between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m., Monday through Friday, except Federal holidays. The AD docket contains this NPRM, the regulatory evaluation, any comments received, and other information. The street address for the Docket Operations office (telephone 800-647-5527) is in the ADDRESSES section. Comments will be available in the AD docket shortly after receipt. FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Sanjay Ralhan, Aerospace Engineer, International Section, Transport Standards Branch, FAA, 1601 Lind Avenue SW, Renton, Washington 98057-3356; telephone 425-227-1405; fax 425-227-1149. SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: Comments Invited We invite you to send any written relevant data, views, or arguments about this proposal. Send your comments to an address listed under the ADDRESSES section. Include ``Docket No. FAA-2018-0077; Product Identifier 2017-NM-126-AD'' at the beginning of your comments. We specifically invite comments on the overall regulatory, economic, environmental, and energy aspects of this NPRM. We will consider [[Page 5961]] all comments received by the closing date and may amend this NPRM based on those comments. We will post all comments we receive, without change, to http://www.regulations.gov, including any personal information you provide. We will also post a report summarizing each substantive verbal contact we receive about this NPRM. Discussion The European Aviation Safety Agency (EASA), which is the Technical Agent for the Member States of the European Union, has issued EASA Airworthiness Directive 2017-0161R1, dated September 19, 2017; corrected September 20, 2017 (referred to after this as the Mandatory Continuing Airworthiness Information, or ``the MCAI''), to correct an unsafe condition for certain Airbus Model A319 and A320 series airplanes; and A321-111, -112, -131, -211, -212, -213, -231, and -232 airplanes. The MCAI states: Several occurrences have been reported of battery rod failures on certain Airbus aeroplanes. Subsequent examination of broken rod parts determined that these failures were due to quality defects of the material used during parts manufacturing. Each battery is secured on an aeroplane by two rods. Failure of one rod, in case of severe turbulence during flight or hard landing, could lead to battery displacement, or roll on the remaining rod side, up to a point where the remaining rod could be disengaged. The battery could ultimately detach from its housing and damage relays, connectors, contactor boxes, air ducts and surrounding structure. This condition, if not detected and corrected, could lead to the loss of the normal electrical generation not followed by an automatic recovery of essential network. To address this potential unsafe condition, Airbus issued Alert Operators Transmission (AOT) A92N001-16 (later revised) and EASA issued AD 2016-0204 [which corresponds to FAA AD 2016-25-24 (81 FR 90958, December 16, 2016)] requiring repetitive general visual inspections (GVI) of the four battery rods (two per battery), and, in case of findings, replacement of battery rods. Since that [EASA] AD was issued, the manufacturer of the broken battery retaining rods has been identified, which allows proper identification of the affected parts and their withdrawal from service. Consequently, Airbus issued [service bulletin] SB A320-92- 1116 and SB A320-92-1118 to provide the necessary instructions to the affected operators. No rods delivered as spare parts are affected by the manufacturing issue. For the reason described above, this [EASA] AD retains the requirements of EASA AD 2016-0204, which is superseded, and requires replacement of battery retaining rods depending on manufacturer identification. This [EASA] AD also provides a terminating action for the repetitive inspections. 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- 0077. Although the MCAI has superseded EASA AD 2016-0204, this NPRM would not supersede AD 2016-25-24. Rather, we have determined that a stand- alone AD would be more appropriate to address the changes in the MCAI. This NPRM would require a detailed inspection of the battery retaining rods to identify the rod manufacturer, replacement of the battery retaining rods with serviceable rods if necessary, and the addition of the applicable service information label on each rod if necessary. Accomplishment of the proposed actions would then terminate all requirements of AD 2016-25-24. Related Service Information Under 1 CFR Part 51 Airbus has issued Service Bulletin A320-92-1116, Revision 00, dated January 31, 2017; and Service Bulletin A320-92-1118, Revision 00, dated January 31, 2017. This service information describes a detailed inspection of the battery retaining rods to identify the rod manufacturer, replacement of the battery retaining rods with serviceable rods if necessary, and adding the applicable service information label on each rod if necessary. These documents are distinct since they apply to different airplane models. 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. FAA's Determination and Requirements of This Proposed AD This product has been approved by the aviation authority of another country, and is approved for operation in the United States. Pursuant to our bilateral agreement with the State of Design Authority, we have been notified of the unsafe condition described in the MCAI and service information referenced above. We are proposing this AD because we evaluated all pertinent information and determined an unsafe condition exists and is likely to exist or develop on other products of these same type designs. Costs of Compliance We estimate that this proposed AD affects 330 airplanes of U.S. registry. We estimate the following costs to comply with this proposed AD: Estimated Costs ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Cost per Cost on U.S. Action Labor cost Parts cost product operators ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Inspection............................ 1 work-hour x $85 per $0 $85 $28,050 hour = $85. ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- We estimate the following costs to do any necessary replacement that would be required based on the results of the proposed inspection. We have no way of determining the number of aircraft that might need this replacement: On-Condition Costs ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Cost per Action Labor cost Parts cost product -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Replacement............................ 1 work-hour x $85 per $0 $85 hour = $85. ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 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. [[Page 5962]] We are issuing this rulemaking under the authority described in ``Subtitle VII, Part A, Subpart III, Section 44701: General requirements.'' Under that section, Congress charges the FAA with promoting safe flight of civil aircraft in air commerce by prescribing regulations for practices, methods, and procedures the Administrator finds necessary for safety in air commerce. This regulation is within the scope of that authority because it addresses an unsafe condition that is likely to exist or develop on products identified in this rulemaking action. This proposed AD is issued in accordance with authority delegated by the Executive Director, Aircraft Certification Service, as authorized by FAA Order 8000.51C. In accordance with that order, issuance of ADs is normally a function of the Compliance and Airworthiness Division, but during this transition period, the Executive Director has delegated the authority to issue ADs applicable to transport category airplanes to the Director of the System Oversight Division. Regulatory Findings We determined that this proposed AD would not have federalism implications under Executive Order 13132. This proposed AD would not have a substantial direct effect on the States, on the relationship between the national Government and the States, or on the distribution of power and responsibilities among the various levels of government. For the reasons discussed above, I certify this proposed regulation: 1. Is not a ``significant regulatory action'' under Executive Order 12866; 2. Is not a ``significant rule'' under the DOT Regulatory Policies and Procedures (44 FR 11034, February 26, 1979); 3. Will not affect intrastate aviation in Alaska; and 4. Will not have a significant economic impact, positive or negative, on a substantial number of small entities under the criteria of the Regulatory Flexibility Act. List of Subjects in 14 CFR Part 39 Air transportation, Aircraft, Aviation safety, Incorporation by reference, Safety. The Proposed Amendment Accordingly, under the authority delegated to me by the Administrator, the FAA proposes to amend 14 CFR part 39 as follows: PART 39--AIRWORTHINESS DIRECTIVES 0 1. The authority citation for part 39 continues to read as follows: Authority: 49 U.S.C. 106(g), 40113, 44701. Sec. 39.13 [Amended] 0 2. The FAA amends Sec. 39.13 by adding the following new airworthiness directive (AD): Airbus: Docket No. FAA-2018-0077; Product Identifier 2017-NM-126-AD. (a) Comments Due Date We must receive comments by March 29, 2018. (b) Affected ADs This AD affects AD 2016-25-24, Amendment 39-18750 (81 FR 90958, December 16, 2016) (``AD 2016-25-24''). (c) Applicability This AD applies to Airbus Model A319-111, -112, -113, -114, - 115, -131, -132, and -133 airplanes; A320-211, -212, -214, -216, - 231, -232, -233, -251N, and -271N airplanes; and A321-111, -112, - 131, -211, -212, -213, -231, and -232 airplanes, certificated in any category, as identified in Airbus Service Bulletin A320-92-1116, Revision 00, dated January 31, 2017; or Airbus Service Bulletin A320-92-1118, Revision 00, dated January 31, 2017. (d) Subject Air Transport Association (ATA) of America Code 92, Electrical system installation. (e) Reason This AD was prompted by reports of battery rod failures due to quality defects of the material used during parts manufacturing. We are issuing this AD to detect and correct broken battery retaining rods, which, in the event of a hard landing or severe turbulence, could cause the battery to detach from its housing, resulting in damage to other electrical equipment and surrounding structure. This condition could lead to loss of normal electrical power generation and subsequent inability to restore electrical power to essential airplane systems. (f) Compliance Comply with this AD within the compliance times specified, unless already done. (g) Definition of a Serviceable Rod For the purpose of this AD, a serviceable battery retaining rod is defined in paragraphs (g)(1) or (g)(2) of this AD. (1) A battery retaining rod provided as a spare part by Airbus. (2) A battery retaining rod previously fitted on a battery support assembly installed on an airplane manufacturer serial number that is not specified in Airbus Service Bulletin A320-92-1116, Revision 00, dated January 31, 2017 (for Airbus Model A319 and A320 series airplanes; and A321-111, -112, -131, -211, -212, -213, -231, and -232 airplanes); or Airbus Service Bulletin A320-92-1118, Revision 00, dated January 31, 2017 (for Airbus Model A320-251N and -271N airplanes). (h) Identification of Affected Parts Within 24 months after the effective date of this AD: Accomplish a detailed inspection of the battery retaining rods to identify the rod manufacturer, in accordance with the Accomplishment Instructions of the Airbus Service Bulletin A320-92-1116, Revision 00, dated January 31, 2017 (for Airbus Model A319 and A320 series airplanes; and A321-111, -112, -131, -211, -212, -213, -231, and -232 airplanes); or Airbus Service Bulletin A320-92-1118, Revision 00, dated January 31, 2017 (for Airbus Model A320-251N and -271N airplanes). (i) Replacement of Affected Parts if Marking Is Found on Battery Support Assembly If, during the inspection specified in paragraph (h) of this AD, the quality stamp on the battery support assembly is found marked with an ``SA'' manufacturer identification, before further flight, replace the battery retaining rods with serviceable rods, in accordance with the Accomplishment Instructions of the Airbus Service Bulletin A320-92-1116, Revision 00, dated January 31, 2017 (for Airbus Model A319 and A320 series airplanes; and A321-111, - 112, -131, -211, -212, -213, -231, and -232 airplanes); or Airbus Service Bulletin A320-92-1118, Revision 00, dated January 31, 2017 (for Airbus Model A320-251N and -271N airplanes). (j) Actions if No Marking Is Found on Battery Support Assembly If, during the inspection specified in paragraph (h) of this AD, no marking is found on the quality stamp of the battery support assembly, add the applicable service information label on each battery retaining rod (replacement of the battery retaining rods is not required), in accordance with the Accomplishment Instructions of Airbus Service Bulletin A320-92-1116, Revision 00, dated January 31, 2017 (for Airbus Model A319 and A320 series airplanes; and A321-111, -112, -131, -211, -212, -213, -231, and -232 airplanes); or Airbus Service Bulletin A320-92-1118, Revision 00, dated January 31, 2017 (for Airbus Model A320-251N and -271N airplanes). (k) Parts Installation Prohibition As of the effective date of this AD, no person may install, on any airplane, a non-serviceable battery retaining rod. (l) Terminating Action Replacement of all battery retaining rods marked ``SA'' with a serviceable rod as required by paragraph (i) of this AD, or application of service information label on each rod, as required by paragraph (j) of this AD, as applicable, constitutes terminating action for all requirements of AD 2016-25-24 for that airplane. (m) Other FAA AD Provisions The following provisions also apply to this AD: [[Page 5963]] (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 (n)(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 European Aviation Safety Agency (EASA); or Airbus's EASA Design Organization Approval (DOA). If approved by the DOA, the approval must include the DOA- authorized signature. (3) Required for Compliance (RC): If any service information contains procedures or tests that are identified as RC, those procedures and tests must be done to comply with this AD; any procedures or tests that are not identified as RC are recommended. Those procedures and tests that are not identified as RC may be deviated from using accepted methods in accordance with the operator's maintenance or inspection program without obtaining approval of an AMOC, provided the procedures and tests identified as RC can be done and the airplane can be put back in an airworthy condition. Any substitutions or changes to procedures or tests identified as RC require approval of an AMOC. (n) Related Information (1) Refer to Mandatory Continuing Airworthiness Information (MCAI) EASA Airworthiness Directive 2017-0161R1, dated September 19, 2017; corrected September 20, 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- 2018-0077. (2) For more information about this AD, contact Sanjay Ralhan, Aerospace Engineer, International Section, Transport Standards Branch, FAA, 1601 Lind Avenue SW, Renton, Washington 98057-3356; telephone 425-227-1405; fax 425-227-1149. (3) For service information identified in this AD, contact Airbus, Airworthiness Office--EIAS, 1 Rond Point Maurice Bellonte, 31707 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, 1601 Lind Avenue SW, Renton, WA. For information on the availability of this material at the FAA, call 425-227-1221. Issued in Renton, Washington, on February 2, 2018. Michael Kaszycki, Acting Director, System Oversight Division, Aircraft Certification Service. [FR Doc. 2018-02754 Filed 2-9-18; 8:45 am] BILLING CODE 4910-13-P
![5960 Federal Register / Vol. 83, No. 29 / Monday, February 12, 2018 / Proposed Rules
inlet self-sealing couplings. We are issuing approval of an AMOC, provided the RC steps, ADDRESSES: You may send comments,
this AD to prevent loss of braking capability including substeps and identified figures, can using the procedures found in 14 CFR
on one or multiple brakes. The unsafe still be done as specified, and the airplane 11.43 and 11.45, by any of the following
condition, if not addressed, could lead to can be put back in an airworthy condition.
methods:
runway overrun or asymmetrical braking that
could result in lateral runway excursion.
(j) Related Information • Federal eRulemaking Portal: Go to
(1) For more information about this AD, http://www.regulations.gov. Follow the
(f) Compliance contact Gideon Jose, Aerospace Engineer, instructions for submitting comments.
Comply with this AD within the Altanta ACO Branch, FAA, 1701 Columbia • Fax: 202–493–2251.
compliance times specified, unless already Avenue, College Park, Georgia 30337; phone: • Mail: U.S. Department of
done. 404–474–5569; fax: 404–474–5606; email:
Transportation, Docket Operations,
gideon.jose@faa.gov.
(g) Modification of the MLG and MLG Brake (2) For service information identified in M–30, West Building Ground Floor,
Assemblies this AD, contact Gulfstream Aerospace Room W12–140, 1200 New Jersey
(1) Within 6 months after the effective date Corporation, P.O. Box 2206, Savannah, Avenue SE, Washington, DC 20590.
of this AD, modify the MLG and brake Georgia 31404–2206; telephone: (912) 965– • Hand Delivery: Deliver to Mail
assemblies following the Accomplishment 3000; fax: (912) 965–3520; email: pubs@ address above between 9 a.m. and 5
Instructions in Gulfstream G650 Customer gulfstream.com; internet: p.m., Monday through Friday, except
Bulletin Number 155B, dated July 26, 2017; www.gulfstream.com. You may view copies Federal holidays.
and Gulfstream G650ER Customer Bulletin of the referenced service information at the For service information identified in
Number 155B, dated July 26, 2017. FAA, Policy and Innovation Division, 901
(2) Although Gulfstream G650 Customer Locust, Kansas City, Missouri 64106. For this NPRM, contact Airbus,
Bulletin Number 155B, dated July 26, 2017; information on the availability of this Airworthiness Office—EIAS, 1 Rond
and Gulfstream G650ER Customer Bulletin material at the FAA, call (816) 329–4148. Point Maurice Bellonte, 31707 Blagnac
Number 155B, dated July 26, 2017, both Issued in Kansas City, Missouri, on
Cedex, France; telephone +33 5 61 93 36
contain reporting requirements and return of February 5, 2018. 96; fax +33 5 61 93 44 51; email
certain parts to the manufacturer, this account.airworth-eas@airbus.com;
proposed AD does not include those Melvin J. Johnson,
internet http://www.airbus.com. You
requirements. Deputy Director, Policy & Innovation Division,
Aircraft Certification Service.
may view this service information at the
(3) AD 2015–24–06 required a dispatch and
takeoff limitation in the airplane flight
FAA, Transport Standards Branch, 1601
[FR Doc. 2018–02612 Filed 2–9–18; 8:45 am]
manual. Although we did not retain that Lind Avenue SW, Renton, WA. For
BILLING CODE 4910–13–P
requirement in this AD, if not already information on the availability of this
removed, this limitation should be removed material at the FAA, call 425–227–1221.
after the modification in paragraph (g)(1) of
this AD is done.
DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION Examining the AD Docket
(h) Credit for Previous Actions Federal Aviation Administration You may examine the AD docket on
the internet at http://
If done before the effective date of this AD,
this AD allows credit for the actions in 14 CFR Part 39 www.regulations.gov by searching for
paragraph (g) of this AD following Gulfstream and locating Docket No. FAA–2018–
[Docket No. FAA–2018–0077; Product 0077; or in person at the Docket
G650 Customer Bulletin 155, dated July 29,
Identifier 2017–NM–126–AD] Management Facility between 9 a.m.
2016; and Gulfstream G650ER Customer
Bulletin 155, dated July 29, 2016. RIN 2120–AA64 and 5 p.m., Monday through Friday,
(i) Alternative Methods of Compliance except Federal holidays. The AD docket
(AMOCs) Airworthiness Directives; Airbus contains this NPRM, the regulatory
Airplanes evaluation, any comments received, and
(1) The Manager, Atlanta ACO Branch,
FAA, has the authority to approve AMOCs AGENCY: Federal Aviation other information. The street address for
for this AD, if requested using the procedures Administration (FAA), DOT. the Docket Operations office (telephone
found in 14 CFR 39.19. In accordance with 800–647–5527) is in the ADDRESSES
ACTION: Notice of proposed rulemaking
14 CFR 39.19, send your request to your section. Comments will be available in
principal inspector or local Flight Standards (NPRM).
the AD docket shortly after receipt.
District Office, as appropriate. If sending SUMMARY: We propose to adopt a new FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT:
information directly to the manager of the
certification office, send it to the attention of
airworthiness directive (AD) for certain Sanjay Ralhan, Aerospace Engineer,
the person identified in paragraph (k)(1) of Airbus Model A319 and A320 series International Section, Transport
this AD. airplanes; and A321–111, –112, –131, Standards Branch, FAA, 1601 Lind
(2) Before using any approved AMOC, –211, –212, –213, –231, and –232 Avenue SW, Renton, Washington
notify your appropriate principal inspector, airplanes. This proposed AD was 98057–3356; telephone 425–227–1405;
or lacking a principal inspector, the manager prompted by reports of battery retaining fax 425–227–1149.
of the local flight standards district office/ rod failures due to quality defects of the SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION:
certificate holding district office. material used during parts
(3) For service information that contains Comments Invited
steps that are labeled as Required for
manufacturing. This proposed AD
Compliance (RC), the provisions of would require a detailed inspection of We invite you to send any written
paragraphs (j)(3)(i) and (ii) of this AD apply. the battery retaining rods to identify the relevant data, views, or arguments about
(i) The steps labeled as RC, including rod manufacturer, replacement of the this proposal. Send your comments to
daltland on DSKBBV9HB2PROD with PROPOSALS
substeps under an RC step and any figures battery retaining rods with serviceable an address listed under the ADDRESSES
identified in an RC step, must be done to rods if necessary, and the addition of section. Include ‘‘Docket No. FAA–
comply with the AD. An AMOC is required the applicable service information label 2018–0077; Product Identifier 2017–
for any deviations to RC steps, including on each rod if necessary. We are
substeps and identified figures.
NM–126–AD’’ at the beginning of your
(ii) Steps not labeled as RC may be
proposing this AD to address the unsafe comments. We specifically invite
deviated from using accepted methods in condition on these products. comments on the overall regulatory,
accordance with the operator’s maintenance DATES: We must receive comments on economic, environmental, and energy
or inspection program without obtaining this proposed AD by March 29, 2018. aspects of this NPRM. We will consider
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all comments received by the closing To address this potential unsafe condition, Related Service Information Under 1
date and may amend this NPRM based Airbus issued Alert Operators Transmission CFR Part 51
on those comments. (AOT) A92N001–16 (later revised) and EASA
issued AD 2016–0204 [which corresponds to Airbus has issued Service Bulletin
We will post all comments we FAA AD 2016–25–24 (81 FR 90958, A320–92–1116, Revision 00, dated
receive, without change, to http:// December 16, 2016)] requiring repetitive January 31, 2017; and Service Bulletin
www.regulations.gov, including any general visual inspections (GVI) of the four A320–92–1118, Revision 00, dated
personal information you provide. We battery rods (two per battery), and, in case of January 31, 2017. This service
will also post a report summarizing each findings, replacement of battery rods. information describes a detailed
substantive verbal contact we receive Since that [EASA] AD was issued, the
inspection of the battery retaining rods
manufacturer of the broken battery retaining
about this NPRM. to identify the rod manufacturer,
rods has been identified, which allows
Discussion proper identification of the affected parts and replacement of the battery retaining rods
their withdrawal from service. Consequently, with serviceable rods if necessary, and
The European Aviation Safety Agency Airbus issued [service bulletin] SB A320–92– adding the applicable service
(EASA), which is the Technical Agent 1116 and SB A320–92–1118 to provide the information label on each rod if
for the Member States of the European necessary instructions to the affected necessary. These documents are distinct
Union, has issued EASA Airworthiness operators. No rods delivered as spare parts since they apply to different airplane
are affected by the manufacturing issue. models. This service information is
Directive 2017–0161R1, dated For the reason described above, this
September 19, 2017; corrected reasonably available because the
[EASA] AD retains the requirements of EASA
September 20, 2017 (referred to after AD 2016–0204, which is superseded, and interested parties have access to it
this as the Mandatory Continuing requires replacement of battery retaining rods through their normal course of business
Airworthiness Information, or ‘‘the depending on manufacturer identification. or by the means identified in the
MCAI’’), to correct an unsafe condition This [EASA] AD also provides a terminating ADDRESSES section.
for certain Airbus Model A319 and action for the repetitive inspections.
FAA’s Determination and Requirements
A320 series airplanes; and A321–111, You may examine the MCAI in the of This Proposed AD
–112, –131, –211, –212, –213, –231, and AD docket on the internet at http://
–232 airplanes. The MCAI states: This product has been approved by
www.regulations.gov by searching for the aviation authority of another
Several occurrences have been reported of and locating Docket No. FAA–2018– country, and is approved for operation
battery rod failures on certain Airbus 0077.
aeroplanes. Subsequent examination of
in the United States. Pursuant to our
broken rod parts determined that these
Although the MCAI has superseded bilateral agreement with the State of
failures were due to quality defects of the EASA AD 2016–0204, this NPRM would Design Authority, we have been notified
material used during parts manufacturing. not supersede AD 2016–25–24. Rather, of the unsafe condition described in the
Each battery is secured on an aeroplane by we have determined that a stand-alone MCAI and service information
two rods. Failure of one rod, in case of severe AD would be more appropriate to referenced above. We are proposing this
turbulence during flight or hard landing, address the changes in the MCAI. This AD because we evaluated all pertinent
could lead to battery displacement, or roll on NPRM would require a detailed information and determined an unsafe
the remaining rod side, up to a point where inspection of the battery retaining rods condition exists and is likely to exist or
the remaining rod could be disengaged. The to identify the rod manufacturer, develop on other products of these same
battery could ultimately detach from its replacement of the battery retaining rods
housing and damage relays, connectors,
type designs.
contactor boxes, air ducts and surrounding
with serviceable rods if necessary, and
the addition of the applicable service Costs of Compliance
structure.
This condition, if not detected and information label on each rod if We estimate that this proposed AD
corrected, could lead to the loss of the necessary. Accomplishment of the affects 330 airplanes of U.S. registry.
normal electrical generation not followed by proposed actions would then terminate We estimate the following costs to
an automatic recovery of essential network. all requirements of AD 2016–25–24. comply with this proposed AD:
ESTIMATED COSTS
Cost per Cost on U.S.
Action Labor cost Parts cost product operators
Inspection ........................................................ 1 work-hour × $85 per hour = $85 ................. $0 $85 $28,050
We estimate the following costs to do be required based on the results of the determining the number of aircraft that
any necessary replacement that would proposed inspection. We have no way of might need this replacement:
ON-CONDITION COSTS
Cost per
Action Labor cost Parts cost product
daltland on DSKBBV9HB2PROD with PROPOSALS
Replacement ................................................................. 1 work-hour × $85 per hour = $85 ............................... $0 $85
Authority for This Rulemaking rules on aviation safety. Subtitle I, Aviation Programs,’’ describes in more
section 106, describes the authority of detail the scope of the Agency’s
Title 49 of the United States Code the FAA Administrator. ‘‘Subtitle VII: authority.
specifies the FAA’s authority to issue
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![5962 Federal Register / Vol. 83, No. 29 / Monday, February 12, 2018 / Proposed Rules
We are issuing this rulemaking under PART 39—AIRWORTHINESS –211, –212, –213, –231, and –232 airplanes);
the authority described in ‘‘Subtitle VII, DIRECTIVES or Airbus Service Bulletin A320–92–1118,
Part A, Subpart III, Section 44701: Revision 00, dated January 31, 2017 (for
■ 1. The authority citation for part 39 Airbus Model A320–251N and –271N
General requirements.’’ Under that airplanes).
section, Congress charges the FAA with continues to read as follows:
promoting safe flight of civil aircraft in Authority: 49 U.S.C. 106(g), 40113, 44701. (h) Identification of Affected Parts
air commerce by prescribing regulations Within 24 months after the effective date
for practices, methods, and procedures § 39.13 [Amended] of this AD: Accomplish a detailed inspection
the Administrator finds necessary for ■ 2. The FAA amends § 39.13 by adding of the battery retaining rods to identify the
safety in air commerce. This regulation the following new airworthiness rod manufacturer, in accordance with the
directive (AD): Accomplishment Instructions of the Airbus
is within the scope of that authority Service Bulletin A320–92–1116, Revision 00,
because it addresses an unsafe condition Airbus: Docket No. FAA–2018–0077; Product dated January 31, 2017 (for Airbus Model
that is likely to exist or develop on Identifier 2017–NM–126–AD. A319 and A320 series airplanes; and A321–
products identified in this rulemaking (a) Comments Due Date 111, –112, –131, –211, –212, –213, –231, and
action. –232 airplanes); or Airbus Service Bulletin
We must receive comments by March 29, A320–92–1118, Revision 00, dated January
This proposed AD is issued in 2018. 31, 2017 (for Airbus Model A320–251N and
accordance with authority delegated by –271N airplanes).
(b) Affected ADs
the Executive Director, Aircraft
Certification Service, as authorized by This AD affects AD 2016–25–24, (i) Replacement of Affected Parts if Marking
Amendment 39–18750 (81 FR 90958, Is Found on Battery Support Assembly
FAA Order 8000.51C. In accordance
December 16, 2016) (‘‘AD 2016–25–24’’). If, during the inspection specified in
with that order, issuance of ADs is
(c) Applicability paragraph (h) of this AD, the quality stamp
normally a function of the Compliance
on the battery support assembly is found
and Airworthiness Division, but during This AD applies to Airbus Model A319– marked with an ‘‘SA’’ manufacturer
this transition period, the Executive 111, –112, –113, –114, –115, –131, –132, and identification, before further flight, replace
Director has delegated the authority to –133 airplanes; A320–211, –212, –214, –216, the battery retaining rods with serviceable
issue ADs applicable to transport –231, –232, –233, –251N, and –271N rods, in accordance with the
category airplanes to the Director of the airplanes; and A321–111, –112, –131, –211, Accomplishment Instructions of the Airbus
–212, –213, –231, and –232 airplanes, Service Bulletin A320–92–1116, Revision 00,
System Oversight Division. certificated in any category, as identified in dated January 31, 2017 (for Airbus Model
Regulatory Findings Airbus Service Bulletin A320–92–1116, A319 and A320 series airplanes; and A321–
Revision 00, dated January 31, 2017; or 111, –112, –131, –211, –212, –213, –231, and
We determined that this proposed AD Airbus Service Bulletin A320–92–1118, –232 airplanes); or Airbus Service Bulletin
would not have federalism implications Revision 00, dated January 31, 2017. A320–92–1118, Revision 00, dated January
under Executive Order 13132. This (d) Subject 31, 2017 (for Airbus Model A320–251N and
proposed AD would not have a –271N airplanes).
Air Transport Association (ATA) of
substantial direct effect on the States, on America Code 92, Electrical system (j) Actions if No Marking Is Found on
the relationship between the national installation. Battery Support Assembly
Government and the States, or on the If, during the inspection specified in
(e) Reason
distribution of power and paragraph (h) of this AD, no marking is found
responsibilities among the various This AD was prompted by reports of on the quality stamp of the battery support
battery rod failures due to quality defects of assembly, add the applicable service
levels of government. the material used during parts information label on each battery retaining
For the reasons discussed above, I manufacturing. We are issuing this AD to rod (replacement of the battery retaining rods
certify this proposed regulation: detect and correct broken battery retaining is not required), in accordance with the
rods, which, in the event of a hard landing Accomplishment Instructions of Airbus
1. Is not a ‘‘significant regulatory or severe turbulence, could cause the battery Service Bulletin A320–92–1116, Revision 00,
action’’ under Executive Order 12866; to detach from its housing, resulting in dated January 31, 2017 (for Airbus Model
2. Is not a ‘‘significant rule’’ under the damage to other electrical equipment and A319 and A320 series airplanes; and A321–
DOT Regulatory Policies and Procedures surrounding structure. This condition could 111, –112, –131, –211, –212, –213, –231, and
(44 FR 11034, February 26, 1979); lead to loss of normal electrical power –232 airplanes); or Airbus Service Bulletin
generation and subsequent inability to restore A320–92–1118, Revision 00, dated January
3. Will not affect intrastate aviation in electrical power to essential airplane 31, 2017 (for Airbus Model A320–251N and
Alaska; and systems. –271N airplanes).
4. Will not have a significant (f) Compliance (k) Parts Installation Prohibition
economic impact, positive or negative, Comply with this AD within the As of the effective date of this AD, no
on a substantial number of small entities compliance times specified, unless already person may install, on any airplane, a non-
under the criteria of the Regulatory done. serviceable battery retaining rod.
Flexibility Act.
(g) Definition of a Serviceable Rod (l) Terminating Action
List of Subjects in 14 CFR Part 39 For the purpose of this AD, a serviceable Replacement of all battery retaining rods
battery retaining rod is defined in paragraphs marked ‘‘SA’’ with a serviceable rod as
Air transportation, Aircraft, Aviation (g)(1) or (g)(2) of this AD. required by paragraph (i) of this AD, or
daltland on DSKBBV9HB2PROD with PROPOSALS
safety, Incorporation by reference, (1) A battery retaining rod provided as a application of service information label on
Safety. spare part by Airbus. each rod, as required by paragraph (j) of this
(2) A battery retaining rod previously fitted AD, as applicable, constitutes terminating
The Proposed Amendment on a battery support assembly installed on an action for all requirements of AD 2016–25–
airplane manufacturer serial number that is 24 for that airplane.
Accordingly, under the authority not specified in Airbus Service Bulletin
delegated to me by the Administrator, A320–92–1116, Revision 00, dated January (m) Other FAA AD Provisions
the FAA proposes to amend 14 CFR part 31, 2017 (for Airbus Model A319 and A320 The following provisions also apply to this
39 as follows: series airplanes; and A321–111, –112, –131, AD:
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![Federal Register / Vol. 83, No. 29 / Monday, February 12, 2018 / Proposed Rules 5963
(1) Alternative Methods of Compliance Issued in Renton, Washington, on February You may view this service information
(AMOCs): The Manager, International 2, 2018. at the FAA, Engine & Propeller
Section, Transport Standards Branch, FAA, Michael Kaszycki, Standards Branch, 1200 District
has the authority to approve AMOCs for this Acting Director, System Oversight Division, Avenue, Burlington, MA. For
AD, if requested using the procedures found Aircraft Certification Service. information on the availability of this
in 14 CFR 39.19. In accordance with 14 CFR
39.19, send your request to your principal
[FR Doc. 2018–02754 Filed 2–9–18; 8:45 am] material at the FAA, call 781–238–7759.
inspector or local Flight Standards District BILLING CODE 4910–13–P
Examining the AD Docket
Office, as appropriate. If sending information
directly to the International Section, send it You may examine the AD docket on
to the attention of the person identified in DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION the internet at http://
paragraph (n)(2) of this AD. Information may www.regulations.gov by searching for
be emailed to: 9-ANM-116-AMOC- Federal Aviation Administration and locating Docket No. FAA–2017–
REQUESTS@faa.gov. Before using any 1050; or in person at the Docket
approved AMOC, notify your appropriate 14 CFR Part 39 Operations office between 9 a.m. and 5
principal inspector, or lacking a principal p.m., Monday through Friday, except
inspector, the manager of the local flight [Docket No. FAA–2017–1050; Product
Identifier 2017–NE–39–AD] Federal holidays. The AD docket
standards district office/certificate holding
district office.
contains this NPRM, the mandatory
RIN 2120–AA64 continuing airworthiness information
(2) Contacting the Manufacturer: For any
requirement in this AD to obtain corrective Airworthiness Directives; Rolls-Royce (MCAI), the regulatory evaluation, any
actions from a manufacturer, the action must Deutschland Ltd & Co KG Turbofan comments received, and other
be accomplished using a method approved Engines information. The address for the Docket
by the Manager, International Section, Office (phone: 800–647–5527) is in the
Transport Standards Branch, FAA; or the AGENCY: Federal Aviation ADDRESSES section. Comments will be
European Aviation Safety Agency (EASA); or Administration (FAA), DOT. available in the AD docket shortly after
Airbus’s EASA Design Organization receipt.
ACTION: Notice of proposed rulemaking
Approval (DOA). If approved by the DOA,
the approval must include the DOA- (NPRM). FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT:
authorized signature. Martin Adler, Aerospace Engineer, ECO
SUMMARY: We propose to adopt a new Branch, FAA, 1200 District Avenue,
(3) Required for Compliance (RC): If any
service information contains procedures or
airworthiness directive (AD) for certain Burlington, MA 01803; phone: 781–
tests that are identified as RC, those Rolls-Royce Deutschland Ltd & Co KG 238–7157; fax: 781–238–7199; email:
procedures and tests must be done to comply (RRD) BR700–710A2–20 and BR700– martin.adler@faa.gov.
with this AD; any procedures or tests that are 710C4–11 turbofan engines. This
SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION:
not identified as RC are recommended. Those proposed AD was prompted by reports
procedures and tests that are not identified of deterioration of the intumescent heat Comments Invited
as RC may be deviated from using accepted resistant paint system on the electronic
methods in accordance with the operator’s We invite you to send any written
engine controller (EEC) firebox assembly
maintenance or inspection program without relevant data, views, or arguments about
that was found to be beyond acceptable
obtaining approval of an AMOC, provided this proposal. Send your comments to
limits. This proposed AD would require
the procedures and tests identified as RC can an address listed under the ADDRESSES
replacement of affected EEC firebox
be done and the airplane can be put back in section. Include ‘‘Docket No. FAA–
an airworthy condition. Any substitutions or assembly parts with improved parts,
2017–1050; Product Identifier 2017–
changes to procedures or tests identified as which have a more durable paint
NE–39–AD’’ at the beginning of your
RC require approval of an AMOC. system. We are proposing this AD to
comments. We specifically invite
address the unsafe condition on these
(n) Related Information comments on the overall regulatory,
products.
(1) Refer to Mandatory Continuing economic, environmental, and energy
Airworthiness Information (MCAI) EASA DATES: We must receive comments on aspects of this NPRM. We will consider
Airworthiness Directive 2017–0161R1, dated this NPRM by March 29, 2018. all comments received by the closing
September 19, 2017; corrected September 20, ADDRESSES: You may send comments, date and may amend this NPRM
2017; for related information. This MCAI using the procedures found in 14 CFR because of those comments.
may be found in the AD docket on the 11.43 and 11.45, by any of the following We will post all comments we
Internet at http://www.regulations.gov by methods: receive, without change, to http://
searching for and locating Docket No. FAA– • Federal eRulemaking Portal: Go to www.regulations.gov, including any
2018–0077. personal information you provide. We
(2) For more information about this AD,
http://www.regulations.gov. Follow the
contact Sanjay Ralhan, Aerospace Engineer, instructions for submitting comments. will also post a report summarizing each
International Section, Transport Standards • Fax: 202–493–2251. substantive verbal contact we receive
Branch, FAA, 1601 Lind Avenue SW, • Mail: U.S. Department of about this NPRM.
Renton, Washington 98057–3356; telephone Transportation, Docket Operations, M–
Discussion
425–227–1405; fax 425–227–1149. 30, West Building Ground Floor, Room
(3) For service information identified in W12–140, Washington, DC 20590. The European Aviation Safety Agency
this AD, contact Airbus, Airworthiness • Hand Delivery: Deliver to Mail (EASA), which is the Technical Agent
Office—EIAS, 1 Rond Point Maurice address above between 9 a.m. and 5 for the Member States of the European
daltland on DSKBBV9HB2PROD with PROPOSALS
Bellonte, 31707 Blagnac Cedex, France; p.m., Monday through Friday, except Community, has issued EASA AD No.
telephone +33 5 61 93 36 96; fax +33 5 61 2017–0198, dated October 10, 2017
Federal holidays.
93 44 51; email account.airworth-eas@ (referred to hereinafter as ‘‘the MCAI’’),
airbus.com; internet http://www.airbus.com.
For service information identified in
You may view this service information at the this proposed AD, contact Rolls-Royce to correct an unsafe condition for the
FAA, Transport Standards Branch, 1601 Lind Deutschland Ltd & Co KG, Eschenweg specified products. The MCAI states:
Avenue SW, Renton, WA. For information on 11, Dahlewitz, 15827 Blankenfelde- Occurrences were reported where
the availability of this material at the FAA, Mahlow, Germany; phone: +49 (0) 33 deterioration of an Electronic Engine
call 425–227–1221. 7086 2673; fax: +49 (0) 33 7086 3276. Controller (EEC) firebox assembly
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Document Created: 2018-11-01 08:42:13
Document Modified: 2018-11-01 08:42:13
| Category | Regulatory Information | |
| Collection | Federal Register | |
| sudoc Class | AE 2.7: GS 4.107: AE 2.106: | |
| Publisher | Office of the Federal Register, National Archives and Records Administration | |
| Section | Proposed Rules | |
| Action | Notice of proposed rulemaking (NPRM). | |
| Dates | We must receive comments on this proposed AD by March 29, 2018. | |
| Contact | Sanjay Ralhan, Aerospace Engineer, International Section, Transport Standards Branch, FAA, 1601 Lind Avenue SW, Renton, Washington 98057-3356; telephone 425-227-1405; fax 425-227-1149. | |
| FR Citation | 83 FR 5960 | |
| RIN Number | 2120-AA64 | |
| CFR Associated | Air Transportation; Aircraft; Aviation Safety; Incorporation by Reference and Safety |
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