[Federal Register Volume 78, Number 232 (Tuesday, December 3, 2013)]
[Rules and Regulations]
[Pages 72564-72567]
From the Federal Register Online via the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]
[FR Doc No: 2013-28441]
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DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION
Federal Aviation Administration
14 CFR Part 39
[Docket No. FAA-2012-1229; Directorate Identifier 2012-NM-135-AD;
Amendment 39-17684; AD 2013-24-10]
RIN 2120-AA64
Airworthiness Directives; The Boeing Company Airplanes
AGENCY: Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), DOT.
ACTION: Final rule.
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SUMMARY: We are adopting a new airworthiness directive (AD) for certain
The Boeing Company Model 757 and Model 767 airplanes. This AD was
prompted by a standby power relay failure and subsequent illumination
of the ``STANDBY BUS OFF'' light, which led the flightcrew to set the
standby power switch to the ``BAT'' position, isolating the battery and
standby buses, disabling the battery charger, and eventually causing
the main battery to be depleted. This AD requires doing wiring changes
and installing a new air/ground relay to the battery charger system. We
are issuing this AD to prevent discharge of the main battery, which
could result in multiple system degradation, reduced airplane
controllability, and runway excursion upon landing.
DATES: This AD is effective January 7, 2014.
The Director of the Federal Register approved the incorporation by
reference of certain publications listed in this AD as of January 7,
2014.
ADDRESSES: 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 view this 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 AD, the regulatory evaluation,
any comments received, and other information. The address for the
Docket Office (phone: 800-647-5527) is Document Management Facility,
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: Marie Hogestad, Aerospace Engineer,
Systems and Equipment Branch, ANM-130S, Seattle Aircraft Certification
Office (ACO), FAA, 1601 Lind Avenue SW., Renton, WA 98057-3356; phone:
425-917-6418; fax: 425-917-6590; email: [email protected].
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 the specified products. The
NPRM published in the Federal Register on December 20, 2012 (77 FR
75402). The NPRM proposed to require doing wiring changes and
installing a
[[Page 72565]]
new air/ground relay to the battery charger system.
Comments
We gave the public the opportunity to participate in developing
this AD. The following presents the comments received on the proposal
(77 FR 75402, December 20, 2012) and the FAA's response to each
comment.
Support for the NPRM (77 FR 75402, December 20, 2012)
The Air Line Pilots Association International (ALPA) stated that it
supports the NPRM (77 FR 75402, December 20, 2012).
Boeing stated that it concurs with the contents of the NPRM (77 FR
75402, December 20, 2012).
The National Transportation Safety Board stated that it supports
the NPRM (77 FR 75402, December 20, 2012), and that, in conjunction
with the procedural changes recommended by the board and implemented by
Boeing, the NPRM will provide an additional margin of safety by
requiring modifications to the airplane that will allow flightcrews to
manage the electrical system more effectively in the event of a relay
failure that results in a loss of power to the standby bus.
Request To Mandate Quick Reference Handbook (QRH) Change
ALPA requested we ensure that operators adopt the QRH procedural
changes that have been implemented by Boeing. ALPA stated that
incorporating the QRH procedural changes would help to ensure that an
event similar to the event that prompted the NPRM (77 FR 75402,
December 20, 2012) does not occur during the 60-month compliance time.
We partially agree with the commenter's request. We agree that
incorporating the QRH change prior to implementing the design change
helps mitigate the unsafe condition. We disagree with mandating
incorporation of the QRH change. We have evaluated the risk and have
determined that accomplishing this final rule within the required
compliance time adequately addresses the unsafe condition without the
need for any additional interim actions. We have determined this AD
action is appropriate based on the probability of occurrence, without
requiring that operators incorporate the temporary procedural changes
prior to incorporating the required design changes. We have not changed
this final rule in this regard.
Request To Specify Alternative Relay Locations
United Airlines (UAL) requested that we specify alternate locations
for the new air/ground relay in the P36 panel versus the location
specified in Figure 15, Sheet 2, of Boeing Special Attention Service
Bulletin 757-24-0132, Revision 1, dated June 19, 2012 (which is the
service information referenced in the NPRM (77 FR 75402, December 20,
2012)). UAL stated that operators will need to apply for alternative
methods of compliance (AMOCs) if they have used the location described
in the service information for supplemental type certificate (STC)
projects.
We disagree with the commenter's request to specify alternate relay
locations. Figure 15, Sheet 2, of Boeing Special Attention Service
Bulletin 757-24-0132, Revision 1, dated June 19, 2012, already provides
a note with regard to the relay installation that states, ``if location
is used, the new relay can be installed anywhere on the same row.'' We
have not changed this final rule in this regard.
Request To Change Wire Bundle Routing
UAL requested that the wire bundle routing described in Figure 1,
Sheet 2, of Boeing Special Attention Service Bulletin 757-24-0132,
Revision 1, dated June 19, 2012, be moved to a location that is easier
to access. UAL stated that bundle routing near diamond ``B'' by station
288 can be very difficult because this is behind the P6 panel, which
cannot be moved. UAL suggested that following a path in a bundle more
forward would be easier. UAL also stated that removing the G1A galley
for access is only feasible in a C-check environment; otherwise the
cost is prohibitive.
We disagree with the commenter's request to change the wire bundle
routing. Wire bundle W2078 is an existing wire bundle being changed for
this modification. The changes to this wire bundle are done near the P5
and P36 panel. Figure 1, of Boeing Special Attention Service Bulletin
757-24-0132, Revision 1, dated June 19, 2012, is only meant to show
that the bundle is routed to both panels and the P6 panel, but it does
not require a modification in that area.
Figures 2 through 8 of Boeing Special Attention Service Bulletin
757-24-0132, Revision 1, dated June 19, 2012, show the wiring change.
The wire from the P6 panel (W2078-0 150-22) is an existing wire and is
only modified near the P5 panel (flag note 8). Furthermore, the G1A
galley is only removed if it is necessary. Note 5 of section 3.A.,
General Information, of Boeing Special Attention Service Bulletin 757-
24-0132, Revision 1, dated June 19, 2012, states that, ``If it is
necessary to remove more parts for access, you can remove those parts.
If you can get access without removing identified parts, it is not
necessary to remove all of the identified parts. Jacking and shoring
limitations must be observed.'' Therefore, operators can remove other
items if it is easier for them.
Finally, in developing an appropriate compliance time for this AD,
we considered not only the safety implications, but the manufacturer's
recommendations and the practical aspect of accomplishing the actions
within an interval of time that corresponds to typical scheduled
maintenance for affected operators. We have determined that a 60-month
compliance time will ensure an acceptable level of safety and allow the
modifications to be done during scheduled maintenance intervals for
most affected operators. Also, the Boeing service information cited in
the NPRM (77 FR 75402, December 20, 2012), has been available to
operators since June 2012; therefore, operators have had ample time to
consider initiating those actions that this final rule requires. We
have not changed this final rule in this regard.
Statement of STC Effect on Applicability
Aviation Partners Boeing stated that the installation of winglets
per STC ST01920SE (http://rgl.faa.gov/Regulatory--and--Guidance--
Library/rgstc.nsf/0/082838ee177dbf62862576a4005cdfc0/$FILE/
ST01920SE.pdf) or STC ST01518SE (http://rgl.faa.gov/Regulatory--and--
Guidance--Library/rgstc.nsf/0/48e13cdfbbc32cf4862576a4005d308b/$FILE/
ST01518SE.pdf) do not affect the accomplishment of the manufacturer's
service instructions.
We have added new paragraph (c)(3) to this final rule to state that
installation of STC ST01920SE or STC ST01518SE does not affect the
ability to accomplish the actions required by this final rule.
Therefore, for airplanes on which STC ST01920SE or STC ST01518SE is
installed, a ``change in product'' AMOC approval request is not
necessary to comply with the requirements of 14 CFR 39.17.
Conclusion
We reviewed the relevant data, considered the comments received,
and determined that air safety and the
[[Page 72566]]
public interest require adopting this AD with the change described
previously and minor editorial changes. We have determined that these
minor changes:
Are consistent with the intent that was proposed in the
NPRM (77 FR 75402, December 20, 2012) for correcting the unsafe
condition; and
Do not add any additional burden upon the public than was
already proposed in the NPRM (77 FR 75402, December 20, 2012).
Costs of Compliance
We estimate that this AD affects 1,085 airplanes of U.S. registry.
We estimate the following costs to comply with this AD:
Estimated Costs
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Cost on U.S.
Action Labor cost Parts cost Cost per product operators
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Install new air/ground relay; 23 work-hours x Up to $733........ Up to $2,688...... Up to $1,811,712.
674 Model 757 airplanes. $85 per hour =
$1,955.
Install new air/ground relay; Up to 35 work- Up to $881........ Up to $3,856...... Up to $1,584,816.
411 Model 767 airplanes. hours x $85 per
hour = $2,975.
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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
This AD will not have federalism implications under Executive Order
13132. This AD will not have a substantial direct effect on the States,
on the relationship between the national government and the States, or
on the distribution of power and responsibilities among the various
levels of government.
For the reasons discussed above, I certify that this AD:
(1) Is not a ``significant regulatory action'' under Executive
Order 12866,
(2) Is not a ``significant rule'' under DOT Regulatory Policies and
Procedures (44 FR 11034, February 26, 1979),
(3) Will not affect intrastate aviation in Alaska, and
(4) Will not have a significant economic impact, positive or
negative, on a substantial number of small entities under the criteria
of the Regulatory Flexibility Act.
List of Subjects in 14 CFR Part 39
Air transportation, Aircraft, Aviation safety, Incorporation by
reference, Safety.
Adoption of the Amendment
Accordingly, under the authority delegated to me by the
Administrator, the FAA amends 14 CFR part 39 as follows:
PART 39--AIRWORTHINESS DIRECTIVES
0
1. The authority citation for part 39 continues to read as follows:
Authority: 49 U.S.C. 106(g), 40113, 44701.
Sec. 39.13 [Amended]
0
2. The FAA amends Sec. 39.13 by adding the following new airworthiness
directive (AD):
2013-24-10 The Boeing Company: Amendment 39-17684; Docket No. FAA-
2012-1229; Directorate Identifier 2012-NM-135-AD.
(a) Effective Date
This AD is effective January 7, 2014.
(b) Affected ADs
None.
(c) Applicability
This AD applies to The Boeing Company airplanes, certificated in
any category, identified in paragraphs (c)(1) and (c)(2) of this AD.
(1) Model 757-200, -200PF, -200CB, and -300 series airplanes, as
identified in Boeing Special Attention Service Bulletin 757-24-0132,
Revision 1, dated June 19, 2012.
(2) Model 767-200, -300, -300F, and -400ER series airplanes, as
identified in Boeing Special Attention Service Bulletin 767-24-0200,
Revision 1, dated September 13, 2012.
(3) Installation of Supplemental Type Certificate (STC)
ST01920SE (http://rgl.faa.gov/Regulatory--and--Guidance--Library/
rgstc.nsf/0/082838ee177dbf62862576a4005cdfc0/$FILE/ST01920SE.pdf) or
STC ST01518SE (http://rgl.faa.gov/Regulatory--and--Guidance--
Library/rgstc.nsf/0/48e13cdfbbc32cf4862576a4005d308b/$FILE/
ST01518SE.pdf) does not affect the ability to accomplish the actions
required by this AD. Therefore, for airplanes on which STC ST01920SE
or STC ST01518SE is installed, a ''change in product'' alternative
method of compliance (AMOC) approval request is not necessary to
comply with the requirements of 14 CFR 39.17.
(d) Subject
Joint Aircraft System Component (JASC)/Air Transport Association
(ATA) of America Code 24, Electrical Power.
(e) Unsafe Condition
This AD was prompted by a standby power relay failure and
subsequent illumination of the ``STANDBY BUS OFF'' light, which led
the flightcrew to set the standby power switch to the ``BAT''
position, isolating the battery and standby buses, disabling the
battery charger, and eventually causing the main battery to be
depleted. We are issuing this AD to prevent discharge of the main
battery, which could result in multiple system degradation, reduced
airplane controllability, and runway excursion upon landing.
(f) Compliance
Comply with this AD within the compliance times specified,
unless already done.
(g) Installation
Within 60 months after the effective date of this AD: Do wiring
changes and install a new air/ground relay to the battery charger
system, in accordance with the Accomplishment Instructions of Boeing
Special Attention Service Bulletin 757-24-0132, Revision 1, dated
June 19, 2012; or Boeing Special Attention Service Bulletin 767-24-
0200, Revision 1, dated September 13, 2012; as applicable.
(h) Credit for Previous Actions
(1) For Model 757 airplanes: This paragraph provides credit for
the actions required by paragraph (g) of this AD if those actions
were performed before the effective date of this AD using Boeing
Special Attention Service Bulletin 757-24-0132, dated April 14,
2011, which is not incorporated by reference in this AD.
[[Page 72567]]
(2) For Model 767 airplanes: This paragraph provides credit for
the actions required by paragraph (g) of this AD if those actions
were performed before the effective date of this AD using Boeing
Special Attention Service Bulletin 767-24-0200, dated April 14,
2011, which is not incorporated by reference, provided that a
functional test of the battery charger system is done, in accordance
with the Accomplishment Instructions of Boeing Special Attention
Service Bulletin 767-24-0200, Revision 1, dated September 13, 2012,
within 60 months after the effective date of this AD.
(i) 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 paragraph (j)(1) of this AD.
Information may be emailed to: [email protected].
(2) Before using any approved AMOC, notify your appropriate
principal inspector, or lacking a principal inspector, the manager
of the local flight standards district office/certificate holding
district office.
(3) An AMOC that provides an acceptable level of safety may be
used for any repair required by this AD if it is approved by the
Boeing Commercial Airplanes Organization Designation Authorization
(ODA) that has been authorized by the Manager, Seattle ACO, to make
those findings. For a repair method to be approved, the repair must
meet the certification basis of the airplane and the approval must
specifically refer to this AD.
(j) Related Information
(1) For more information about this AD, contact Marie Hogestad,
Aerospace Engineer, Systems and Equipment Branch, ANM-130S, Seattle
Aircraft Certification Office (ACO), FAA, 1601 Lind Avenue SW.,
Renton, WA 98057-3356; phone: 425-917-6418; fax: 425-917-6590;
email: [email protected].
(2) Service information identified in this AD that is not
incorporated by reference may be obtained at the addresses specified
in paragraphs (k)(3) and (k)(4) of this AD.
(k) Material Incorporated by Reference
(1) The Director of the Federal Register approved the
incorporation by reference (IBR) of the service information listed
in this paragraph under 5 U.S.C. 552(a) and 1 CFR part 51.
(2) You must use this service information as applicable to do
the actions required by this AD, unless the AD specifies otherwise.
(i) Boeing Special Attention Service Bulletin 757-24-0132,
Revision 1, dated June 19, 2012.
(ii) Boeing Special Attention Service Bulletin 767-24-0200,
Revision 1, dated September 13, 2012.
(3) For Boeing 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.
(4) You may view this service information at 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.
(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 Renton, Washington, on November 15, 2013.
Jeffrey E. Duven,
Acting Manager, Transport Airplane Directorate, Aircraft Certification
Service.
[FR Doc. 2013-28441 Filed 12-2-13; 8:45 am]
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