[Federal Register Volume 78, Number 95 (Thursday, May 16, 2013)]
[Proposed Rules]
[Pages 28764-28767]
From the Federal Register Online via the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]
[FR Doc No: 2013-11694]
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DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION
Federal Aviation Administration
14 CFR Part 39
[Docket No. FAA-2013-0421; Directorate Identifier 2013-NM-003-AD]
RIN 2120-AA64
Airworthiness Directives; The Boeing Company
AGENCY: Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), DOT.
ACTION: Notice of proposed rulemaking (NPRM).
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SUMMARY: We propose to adopt a new airworthiness directive (AD) for
certain The Boeing Company Model 737-300, -400, and -500 series
airplanes. This proposed AD was prompted by fuel system reviews
conducted by the manufacturer. This proposed AD would require,
depending on airplane configuration, replacing fuel pump power control
relays with new relays having a ground fault interrupter (GFI) feature,
installing ground studs and a bonding jumper, doing certain bonding
resistance measurements, and changing the GFI relay position. This
proposed AD would also require revising the maintenance program to
incorporate certain airworthiness limitations. We are proposing this AD
to prevent damage to the fuel pumps caused by electrical arcing that
could introduce an ignition source in the fuel tank, which, in
combination with flammable fuel vapors, could result in a fuel tank
explosion and consequent loss of the airplane.
DATES: We must receive comments on this proposed AD by July 1, 2013.
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 proposed AD, contact
Boeing Commercial Airplanes, Attention: Data & Services Management,
P.O. Box 3707, MC 2H-65, Seattle, WA 98124-2207; telephone 206-544-
5000, extension 1; fax 206-766-5680; Internet https://www.myboeingfleet.com. You may review copies of the referenced service
information at the FAA, Transport Airplane Directorate, 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; 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 proposed AD, the
[[Page 28765]]
regulatory evaluation, any comments received, and other information.
The street address for the Docket Office (phone: 800-647-5527) is in
the ADDRESSES section. Comments will be available in the AD docket
shortly after receipt.
FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Georgios Roussos, Aerospace Engineer,
Systems and Equipment Branch, ANM-130S, FAA, Seattle Aircraft
Certification Office, 1601 Lind Avenue SW., Renton, WA 98057-3356;
phone: 425-917-6482; fax: 425-917-6590; email:
[email protected].
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-2013-0421;
Directorate Identifier 2013-NM-003-AD'' at the beginning of your
comments. We specifically invite comments on the overall regulatory,
economic, environmental, and energy aspects of this proposed AD. We
will consider all comments received by the closing date and may amend
this proposed AD because of 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 proposed AD.
Discussion
The FAA has examined the underlying safety issues involved in fuel
tank explosions on several large transport airplanes, including the
adequacy of existing regulations, the service history of airplanes
subject to those regulations, and existing maintenance practices for
fuel tank systems. As a result of those findings, we issued a
regulation titled ``Transport Airplane Fuel Tank System Design Review,
Flammability Reduction and Maintenance and Inspection Requirements''
(66 FR 23086, May 7, 2001). In addition to new airworthiness standards
for transport airplanes and new maintenance requirements, this rule
included Special Federal Aviation Regulation No. 88 (``SFAR 88,''
Amendment 21-78, and subsequent Amendments 21-82 and 21-83).
Among other actions, SFAR 88 requires certain type design (i.e.,
type certificate (TC) and supplemental type certificate (STC)) holders
to substantiate that their fuel tank systems can prevent ignition
sources in the fuel tanks. This requirement applies to type design
holders for large turbine-powered transport airplanes and for
subsequent modifications to those airplanes. It requires them to
perform design reviews and to develop design changes and maintenance
procedures if their designs do not meet the new fuel tank safety
standards. As explained in the preamble to the rule, we intended to
adopt airworthiness directives to mandate any changes found necessary
to address unsafe conditions identified as a result of these reviews.
In evaluating these design reviews, we have established four
criteria intended to define the unsafe conditions associated with fuel
tank systems that require corrective actions. The percentage of
operating time during which fuel tanks are exposed to flammable
conditions is one of these criteria. The other three criteria address
the failure types under evaluation: single failures, combination of
failures, and unacceptable (failure) experience. For all three failure
criteria, the evaluations included consideration of previous actions
taken that may mitigate the need for further action.
We have determined that the actions identified in this proposed AD
are necessary to reduce the potential of ignition sources inside fuel
tanks, which, in combination with flammable fuel vapors, could result
in a fuel tank explosion and consequent loss of the airplane.
We received a report of incorrect operation of a new GFI relay
having part number (P/N) 9524G-10674 after AD 2011-12-09, Amendment 39-
16716 (76 FR 33988, June 10, 2011), was incorporated. Subsequent
investigation found that electromagnetic interference (EMI) between the
new P/N 9524G-10674 relays and adjacent P/N KCG-X4L-001 relays could
cause problems with the function of the new relays and the operation of
the GFI system. The GFI system might not function correctly after
installation on certain airplanes.
Related Rulemaking
The requirements of AD 2011-12-09, Amendment 39-16716 (76 FR 33988,
June 10, 2011), affect all airplanes of this proposed AD. This proposed
AD provides terminating actions for those airplanes.
Relevant Service Information
We reviewed Boeing Alert Service Bulletin 737-28A1212, Revision 2,
dated October 18, 2012. For information on the procedures and
compliance times, see this service information at http://www.regulations.gov by searching for Docket No. FAA-2013-0421.
FAA's Determination
We are proposing this AD because we evaluated all the relevant
information and determined the unsafe condition described previously is
likely to exist or develop in other products of the same type design.
Proposed AD Requirements
This proposed AD would require accomplishing the actions specified
in the service information described previously.
The phrase ``related investigative actions'' might be used in this
proposed AD. ``Related investigative actions'' are follow-on actions
that: (1) are related to the primary actions, and (2) are actions that
further investigate the nature of any condition found. Related
investigative actions in an AD could include, for example, inspections.
In addition, the phrase ``corrective actions'' might be used in
this proposed AD. ``Corrective actions'' are actions that correct or
address any condition found. Corrective actions in an AD could include,
for example, repairs.
This proposed AD requires revisions to certain operator maintenance
documents to include new inspections. Compliance with these inspections
is required by 14 CFR 91.403(c). For airplanes that have been
previously modified, altered, or repaired in the areas addressed by
these inspections, the operator may not be able to accomplish the
inspections described in the revisions. In this situation, to comply
with 14 CFR 91.403(c), the operator must request approval for an
alternative method of compliance according to paragraph (l) of this
proposed AD. The request should include a description of changes to the
required inspections that will ensure the continued operational safety
of the airplane.
Costs of Compliance
We estimate that this proposed AD affects 14 airplanes of U.S.
registry. We estimate the following costs to comply with this proposed
AD:
[[Page 28766]]
Estimated Costs
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Action Labor cost Parts cost Cost per product Cost on U.S. operators
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Replace fuel pump power control Up to 31 work-hours Up to $21,338.................. Up to $23,973................. Up to $335,622.
relays, install ground studs and x $85 per hour =
a bonding jumper, and do certain $2,635.
bonding resistance measurements,
and change the GFI relay
position, depending on airplane
configuration.
Maintenance program revision..... 1 work-hour x $85 $0............................. $85........................... $1,190.
per hour = $85.
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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 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):
The Boeing Company: Docket No. FAA-2013-0421; Directorate
Identifier 2013-NM-003-AD.
(a) Comments Due Date
We must receive comments by July 1, 2013.
(b) Affected ADs
Certain requirements of this AD terminate certain requirements
of AD 2011-12-09, Amendment 39-16716 (76 FR 33988, June 10, 2011).
(c) Applicability
This AD applies to The Boeing Company Model 737-300, -400, and -
500 series airplanes; certificated in any category; identified as
Groups 5, 6, 7, and 9 in Boeing Alert Service Bulletin 737-28A1212,
Revision 2, dated October 18, 2012.
(d) Subject
Joint Aircraft System Component (JASC)/Air Transport Association
(ATA) of America Code 2822, Fuel boost pump.
(e) Unsafe Condition
This AD was prompted by fuel system reviews conducted by the
manufacturer. We are issuing this AD to prevent damage to the fuel
pumps caused by electrical arcing that could introduce an ignition
source in the fuel tank, which, in combination with flammable fuel
vapors, could result in a fuel tank explosion and consequent loss of
the airplane.
(f) Compliance
Comply with this AD within the compliance times specified,
unless already done.
(g) Installation of Ground Studs and Bonding Jumper and Fuel Boost Pump
Relays Replacement
For airplanes in Groups 5, 6, 7, and 9, Configuration 1, as
identified in Boeing Alert Service Bulletin 737-28A1212, Revision 2,
dated October 18, 2012 (airplanes on which Boeing Alert Service
Bulletin 737-28A1212 was not done): Within 60 months after the
effective date of this AD, install ground studs and a bonding
jumper, replace fuel boost pump relays, and do certain bonding
resistance measurements, in accordance with Part 1 of the
Accomplishment Instructions of Boeing Alert Service Bulletin 737-
28A1212, Revision 2, dated October 18, 2012. Doing the actions
required by this paragraph terminates the requirements of paragraph
(g) of AD 2011-12-09, Amendment 39-16716 (76 FR 33988, June 10,
2011), for Groups 5, 6, 7, and 9, Configuration 1 only, provided
that the requirements of paragraph (g) of this AD are done at the
time given in AD 2011-12-09.
(h) Ground Studs and Bonding Jumper Installation and GFI Relay Position
Change
For airplanes in Groups 5, 6, 7, and 9, Configuration 2, as
identified in Boeing Alert Service Bulletin 737-28A1212, Revision 2,
dated October 18, 2012 (airplanes on which Boeing Alert Service
Bulletin 737-28A1212, dated July 23, 2009 was done): Within 60
months after the effective date of this AD, install ground studs and
a bonding jumper, change the GFI relay position, and do certain
bonding resistance measurements, in accordance with Part 2 of the
Accomplishment Instructions of Boeing Alert Service Bulletin 737-
28A1212, Revision 2, dated October 18, 2012. Doing the actions
required by this paragraph terminates the requirements of paragraph
(h) of AD 2011-12-09, Amendment 39-16716 (76 FR 33988, June 10,
2011), for airplanes identified as Groups 5, 6, 7, and 9,
Configuration 2 only, provided that the requirements of paragraph
(h) of this AD are done at the time given in AD 2011-12-09.
(i) Ground Fault Interrupt (GFI) Relay Position Change
For airplanes in Groups 5, 6, 7, and 9, Configuration 3, as
identified in Boeing Alert Service Bulletin 737-28A1212, Revision 2,
dated October 18, 2012 (certain airplanes on which Boeing Alert
Service Bulletin 737-
[[Page 28767]]
28A1212, Revision 1, dated August 27, 2010 was done): Within 60
months after the effective date of this AD, change the GFI relay
position and do certain bonding resistance measurements, in
accordance with Part 4 of the Accomplishment Instructions of Boeing
Alert Service Bulletin 737-28A1212, Revision 2, dated October 18,
2012.
(j) Maintenance Program Revision
Concurrently with accomplishing the actions required by
paragraph (g), (h), or (i) of this AD, or within 30 days after the
effective date of this AD, whichever occurs later: Revise the
maintenance program by incorporating Airworthiness Limitation 28-
AWL-22 of Boeing 737-100/200/200C/300/400/500 AWL and Certification
Maintenance Requirements (CMRs), Document D6-38278-CMR, Revision
August 2012. The initial compliance time for the actions specified
in AWL 28-AWL-22 of Boeing 737-100/200/200C/300/400/500 AWL and
Certification Maintenance Requirements (CMRs), Document D6-38278-
CMR, Revision August 2012, is within 1 year after accomplishing the
installation required by paragraph (g), (h), or (i) of this AD, or
within 1 year after the effective date of this AD, whichever occurs
later.
(k) No Alternative Actions, Intervals, and/or Critical Design
Configuration Control Limitations (CDCCLs)
After accomplishing the revision required by paragraph (j) of
this AD, no alternative actions (e.g., inspections) or intervals may
be used unless the actions or intervals are approved as an
alternative method of compliance (AMOC) in accordance with the
procedures specified in paragraph (l) of this AD.
(l) Alternative Methods of Compliance (AMOCs)
(1) The Manager, Seattle Aircraft Certification Office (ACO),
FAA, has the authority to approve AMOCs for this AD, if requested
using the procedures found in 14 CFR 39.19. In accordance with 14
CFR 39.19, send your request to your principal inspector or local
Flight Standards District Office, as appropriate. If sending
information directly to the manager of the ACO, send it to the
attention of the person identified in the Related Information
section of this AD. Information may be emailed to: [email protected].
(2) Before using any approved AMOC, notify your appropriate
principal inspector, or lacking a principal inspector, the manager
of the local flight standards district office/certificate holding
district office.
(m) Related Information
(1) For more information about this AD, contact Georgios
Roussos, Aerospace Engineer, Systems and Equipment Branch, ANM-130S,
FAA, Seattle Aircraft Certification Office, 1601 Lind Avenue SW.,
Renton, WA 98057-3356; phone: 425-917-6482; fax: 425-917-6590;
email: [email protected].
(2) For service information identified in this AD, contact
Boeing Commercial Airplanes, Attention: Data & Services Management,
P. O. Box 3707, MC 2H-65, Seattle, WA 98124-2207; telephone 206-544-
5000, extension 1; fax 206-766-5680; Internet https://www.myboeingfleet.com. You may review copies of the referenced
service information at the FAA, Transport Airplane Directorate, 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 May 8, 2013.
Jeffrey E. Duven,
Acting Manager, Transport Airplane Directorate, Aircraft Certification
Service.
[FR Doc. 2013-11694 Filed 5-15-13; 8:45 am]
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