[Federal Register Volume 76, Number 206 (Tuesday, October 25, 2011)]
[Rules and Regulations]
[Pages 65936-65938]
From the Federal Register Online via the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]
[FR Doc No: 2011-27005]
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DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION
Federal Aviation Administration
14 CFR Part 39
[Docket No. FAA-2011-0255; Directorate Identifier 2010-NM-253-AD;
Amendment 39-16844; AD 2011-22-02]
RIN 2120-AA64
Airworthiness Directives; Airbus Airplanes
AGENCY: Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), Department of
Transportation (DOT).
ACTION: Final rule.
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SUMMARY: We are adopting a new airworthiness directive (AD) for all
Airbus Model A310 series airplanes; Model A300 B4-600, B4-600R, and F4-
600R series airplanes; and Model C4-605R variant F airplanes
(collectively called A300-600 series airplanes). This AD results from
mandatory continuing airworthiness information (MCAI) originated by an
aviation authority of another country to identify and correct an unsafe
condition on an aviation product. The MCAI describes the unsafe
condition as:
An operator reported several cases of wire damages at the pylon/
wing interface. Analysis revealed that wires damages are due to
installation quality issue resulting from lack of information in
installation drawings and job cards.
Moreover detailed analysis has highlighted that the Low Pressure
Valve (LPV) wires were not segregated by design.
* * * * *
If left uncorrected, the wire chafing could impact fire
protection and detection system. It may also induce dormant failure
on LPV preventing its closure leading to a permanent and
uncontrolled fire (in case of fire ignited upstream the High
Pressure Valve (HPV)).
* * * * *
We are issuing this AD to require actions to correct the unsafe
condition on these products.
DATES: This AD becomes effective November 29, 2011.
ADDRESSES: You may examine the AD docket on the Internet at http://www.regulations.gov or in person at the U.S. Department of
Transportation, Docket Operations, M-30, West Building Ground Floor,
Room W12-140, 1200 New Jersey Avenue, SE., Washington, DC.
FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Dan Rodina, Aerospace Engineer,
International Branch, ANM-116, Transport Airplane Directorate, FAA,
1601 Lind Avenue, SW., Renton, Washington 98057-3356; telephone (425)
227-2125; fax (425) 227-1149.
SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION:
Discussion
We issued a notice of proposed rulemaking (NPRM) to amend 14 CFR
part 39 to include an AD that would apply to the specified products.
That NPRM was published in the Federal Register on March 22, 2011 (76
FR 15870). That NPRM proposed to correct an unsafe condition for the
specified products. The European Aviation Safety Agency (EASA), which
is the Technical Agent for the Member States of the European Community,
has issued revised parallel mandatory continuing airworthiness
information (MCAI) AD 2010-0178R1, dated May 20, 2011. The revised MCAI
states:
An operator reported several cases of wire damages at the pylon/
wing interface. Analysis revealed that wires damages are due to
installation quality issue resulting from lack of information in
installation drawings and job cards.
Moreover detailed analysis has highlighted that the Low Pressure
Valve (LPV) wires were not segregated by design.
Due to design similarities, A310, A300-600 and A300-600ST
aeroplanes can be affected, depending on the wires installation in
the concerned area.
If left uncorrected, the wire chafing could impact fire
protection and detection system. It may also induce dormant failure
on LPV preventing its closure leading to a permanent and
uncontrolled fire (in case of fire ignited upstream the High
Pressure Valve (HPV)).
For the reasons explained above, this AD requires the
modification of the electrical installation in the pylon/wing
interface to avoid wire damages.
Shortly after this [EASA] AD was issued, it was discovered that
Airbus Service Bulletin (SB) A310-24-2106, associated to Airbus
modification 13541, contained wrong Low Pressure Valve installation
drawings. This makes it impossible for the operators to accomplish
the SB instructions. Consequently, Airbus have revised the SB to
correct the error.
Revision 1 of this [EASA] AD is issued to require modification
13541 to be incorporated in accordance with the instructions of
Airbus SB A310-24-2106 at Revision 1.
The modification includes a general visual inspection of wires for
damage, and repair if necessary. You may obtain further information by
examining the MCAI in the AD docket.
Comments
We gave the public the opportunity to participate in developing
this AD. We considered the comment received.
Request To Change Compliance Time
UPS stated that it agreed with the actions proposed in the NPRM (76
FR 15870, March 22, 2011); however, it requested that the 30-month
compliance time be extended to 36 months. UPS stated that extending the
compliance time to 36 months would reduce the potential for special
maintenance visits for unmodified airplanes. UPS stated that the
additional 6 months would reduce potential operator hardship and allow
for a timely correction of the unsafe condition. UPS also stated that,
in accordance with EASA Airworthiness Directive 2010-0178, dated August
23, 2010; Airbus Mandatory Service Bulletin A300-24-6106, dated March
31, 2010; and Airbus Mandatory Service Bulletin A310-24-2106, dated May
27, 2010; the original wire damage was a result of installation defects
during production, and the issues related to wiring segregation,
conduit installation, and improved clamping and lacing were all
identified by Airbus during the two-year investigation process. UPS
stated that these design improvements are not related to the correction
of the installation defects, and they are not
[[Page 65937]]
critical airworthiness concerns, thus justifying a longer compliance
period.
We disagree with extending the compliance time. In developing an
appropriate compliance time, we considered the safety implications and
normal maintenance schedules for timely accomplishment of the
modification. The FAA considered the potential repercussion of wire
chafing and the fact that some failures are hidden. In particular,
there may be some dormant failures on the LPV preventing its closure in
case of fire upstream the HPVs. Accomplishment of the service bulletins
will correct the electrical installation if there are any defects,
avoiding further damages at the pylon/wing interface. Affected
operators, however, may request an extension of the compliance time
under the provisions of paragraph (h)(1) of this AD by submitting data
substantiating that the change would provide an acceptable level of
safety.
Revised Service Information
Since the NPRM (76 FR 15870, March 22, 2011) has been issued, EASA
has issued Airworthiness Directive 2010-0178R1, dated May 20, 2011. We
have received a report that Airbus Mandatory Service Bulletin A310-24-
2106, dated May 27, 2010, associated with Airbus Modification 13541,
contained the wrong installation drawings of the LPV. This made it
impossible for operators to accomplish the instructions in that service
bulletin. Airbus has issued Mandatory Service Bulletin A310-24-2106,
Revision 01, including Appendix 01, dated April 4, 2011, to address the
error. We have revised paragraph (g) of this AD accordingly to reflect
the new service information.
Conclusion
We reviewed the available data, including the comment received, and
determined that air safety and the public interest require adopting the
AD with the change described previously. We determined that this change
will not increase the economic burden on any operator or increase the
scope of the AD.
Differences Between This AD and the MCAI or Service Information
We have reviewed the MCAI and related service information and, in
general, agree with their substance. But we might have found it
necessary to use different words from those in the MCAI to ensure the
AD is clear for U.S. operators and is enforceable. In making these
changes, we do not intend to differ substantively from the information
provided in the MCAI and related service information.
We might also have required different actions in this AD from those
in the MCAI in order to follow our FAA policies. Any such differences
are highlighted in a NOTE within the AD.
Revised Costs of Compliance
Since the NPRM (76 FR 15870, March 22, 2011) was issued, Airbus has
issued Mandatory Service Bulletin A310-24-2106, Revision 01, including
Appendix 01, dated April 4, 2011, which updated the cost for required
parts to $1,340 per product. We have revised the Costs of Compliance
section of this AD accordingly to reflect the new parts cost.
Costs of Compliance
We estimate that this AD will affect 185 products of U.S. registry.
We also estimate that it will take about 16 work-hours per product to
comply with the basic requirements of this AD. The average labor rate
is $85 per work-hour. Required parts will cost up to $1,340 per
product. Where the service information lists required parts costs that
are covered under warranty, we have assumed that there will be no
charge for these parts. As we do not control warranty coverage for
affected parties, some parties may incur costs higher than estimated
here. Based on these figures, we estimate the cost of this AD to the
U.S. operators to be up to $499,500, or $2,700 per product.
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.
Regulatory Findings
We determined that this AD will not have federalism implications
under Executive Order 13132. This AD will not have a substantial direct
effect on the States, on the relationship between the national
government and the States, or on the distribution of power and
responsibilities among the various levels of government.
For the reasons discussed above, I certify 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); and
3. 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.
We prepared a regulatory evaluation of the estimated costs to
comply with this AD and placed it in the AD docket.
Examining the AD Docket
You may examine the AD docket on the Internet at http://www.regulations.gov; or in person at the Docket Operations office
between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m., Monday through Friday, except Federal
holidays. The AD docket contains the NPRM (76 FR 15870, March 22,
2011), 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.
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 AD:
2011-22-02 Airbus: Amendment 39-16844. Docket No. FAA-2011-0255;
Directorate Identifier 2010-NM-253-AD.
Effective Date
(a) This airworthiness directive (AD) becomes effective November
29, 2011.
Affected ADs
(b) None.
Applicability
(c) This AD applies to all Airbus Model A300 B4-601, B4-603, B4-
620, and B4-622
[[Page 65938]]
airplanes; Model A300 B4-605R and B4-622R airplanes; Model A300 F4-
605R and F4-622R airplanes; Model A300 C4-605R Variant F airplanes;
and Model A310-203, -204, -221, -222, -304, -322, -324, and -325
airplanes; certificated in any category.
Subject
(d) Air Transport Association (ATA) of America Code 24:
Electrical Power.
Reason
(e) The mandatory continuing airworthiness information (MCAI)
states:
An operator reported several cases of wire damages at the pylon/
wing interface. Analysis revealed that wires damages are due to
installation quality issue resulting from lack of information in
installation drawings and job cards.
Moreover detailed analysis has highlighted that the Low Pressure
Valve (LPV) wires were not segregated by design.
* * * * *
If left uncorrected, the wire chafing could impact fire
protection and detection system. It may also induce dormant failure
on LPV preventing its closure leading to a permanent and
uncontrolled fire (in case of fire ignited upstream the High
Pressure Valve (HPV)).
* * * * *
Compliance
(f) You are responsible for having the actions required by this
AD performed within the compliance times specified, unless the
actions have already been done.
Actions
(g) Within 30 months or 4,000 flight hours after the effective
date of this AD, whichever occurs first: Modify the electrical
installation in the pylon/wing interface on the left-hand and right-
hand side by doing a general visual inspection of wires for damage
and doing all applicable repairs, replace the cable tie with lacing
tape, improve the electrical installation at the level of the
electrical ramp, and improve the segregation of both routes of the
LPV channels 1 and 2 between LPV connector and ramp; in accordance
with the Accomplishment Instructions of Airbus Mandatory Service
Bulletin A300-24-6106, excluding Appendix 01, dated March 31, 2010
(for Airbus Model A300 B4-600, B4-600R, and F4-600R series
airplanes, and Model C4-605R Variant F airplanes); or Airbus
Mandatory Service Bulletin A310-24-2106, Revision 01, including
Appendix 01, dated April 4, 2011 (for Airbus Model A310 series
airplanes). Do all applicable repairs before further flight.
FAA AD Differences
Note 1: This AD differs from the MCAI and/or service information
as follows: No differences.
Other FAA AD Provisions
(h) The following provisions also apply to this AD:
(1) Alternative Methods of Compliance (AMOCs): The Manager,
International Branch, ANM-116, 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
Branch, send it to ATTN: Dan Rodina, Aerospace Engineer,
International Branch, ANM-116, Transport Airplane Directorate, FAA,
1601 Lind Avenue, SW., Renton, Washington 98057-3356; telephone
(425) 227-2125; fax (425) 227-1149. Information may be e-mailed to:
[email protected]. Before using any approved AMOC,
notify your appropriate principal inspector, or lacking a principal
inspector, the manager of the local flight standards district
office/certificate holding district office. The AMOC approval letter
must specifically reference this AD.
(2) Airworthy Product: For any requirement in this AD to obtain
corrective actions from a manufacturer or other source, use these
actions if they are FAA-approved. Corrective actions are considered
FAA-approved if they are approved by the State of Design Authority
(or their delegated agent). You are required to assure the product
is airworthy before it is returned to service.
Related Information
(i) Refer to MCAI European Aviation Safety Agency Airworthiness
Directive 2010-0178R1, excluding Appendix 01, dated May 20, 2011;
Airbus Mandatory Service Bulletin A300-24-6106, dated March 31,
2010; and Airbus Mandatory Service Bulletin A310-24-2106, Revision
01, including Appendix 01, dated April 4, 2011; for related
information.
Material Incorporated by Reference
(j) You must use Airbus Mandatory Service Bulletin A300-24-6106,
excluding Appendix 01, dated March 31, 2010; or Airbus Mandatory
Service Bulletin A310-24-2106, Revision 01, including Appendix 01,
dated April 4, 2011; as applicable; to do the actions required by
this AD, unless the AD specifies otherwise.
(1) The Director of the Federal Register approved the
incorporation by reference of this service information under 5
U.S.C. 552(a) and 1 CFR part 51.
(2) For service information identified in this AD, contact
Airbus SAS--EAW (Airworthiness Office), 1 Rond Point Maurice
Bellonte, 31707 Blagnac Cedex, France; telephone +33 5 61 93 36 96;
fax +33 5 61 93 44 51; e-mail [email protected];
Internet http://www.airbus.com.
(3) You may review copies of the service information at the FAA,
Transport Airplane Directorate, 1601 Lind Avenue, SW., Renton,
Washington. For information on the availability of this material at
the FAA, call 425-227-1221.
(4) You may also review copies of the 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/code_of_federal_regulations/ibr_locations.html.
Issued in Renton, Washington, on October 11, 2011.
Ali Bahrami,
Manager, Transport Airplane Directorate, Aircraft Certification
Service.
[FR Doc. 2011-27005 Filed 10-24-11; 8:45 am]
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