[Federal Register: August 20, 2003 (Volume 68, Number 161)]
[Rules and Regulations]
[Page 50064-50067]
From the Federal Register Online via GPO Access [wais.access.gpo.gov]
[DOCID:fr20au03-9]
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DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION
Federal Aviation Administration
14 CFR Part 39
[Docket No. 97-CE-27-AD; Amendment 39-13278; AD 2003-17-04]
RIN 2120-AA64
Airworthiness Directives; Mitsubishi Heavy Industries, Ltd. MU-2B
Series Airplanes
AGENCY: Federal Aviation Administration, DOT.
ACTION: Final rule.
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SUMMARY: This amendment adopts a new airworthiness directive (AD) that
applies to certain Mitsubishi Heavy Industries, Ltd. (Mitsubishi) MU-2B
series airplanes. This AD requires you to repetitively inspect the
cockpit windshield and cabin window surfaces for damage (damage is
defined as crazing, scratches, and cracks). If any of the windshield or
window surfaces have damage that exceeds certain limits, this AD
requires you to replace the windshield or window. If the damage does
not exceed certain limits, this AD allows you to blend out the damage
following maintenance manual procedures. This AD is the result of
continuing airworthiness information (MCAI) issued by the airworthiness
authority for Japan. The actions specified by this AD are intended to
prevent cockpit windshield or cabin window separation during flight,
which could result in engine ingestion of glass, wing skin damage, or
propeller damage, and possible loss of control of the airplane.
DATES: This AD becomes effective on October 3, 2003.
The Director of the Federal Register approved the incorporation by
reference of certain publications listed in the regulations as of
October 3, 2003.
ADDRESSES: You may get the service information referenced in this AD
from Mitsubishi Heavy Industries America, Inc., 4951 Airport Parkway,
suite 800, Addison, Texas 75001; telephone: (972) 934-5480; facsimile:
(972) 934-5488.
You may view this information at the Federal Aviation
Administration (FAA), Central Region, Office of the Regional Counsel,
Attention: Rules Docket No. 97-CE-27-AD, 901 Locust, Room 506, Kansas
City, Missouri 64106; or at the Office of the Federal Register, 800
North Capitol Street, NW., suite 700, Washington, DC.
FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Direct all questions to:
--For the airplanes manufactured in Japan (Type Certificate A2PC): Mr.
Carl Fountain, Aerospace Engineer, Los Angeles Aircraft Certification
Office, FAA, 3960 Paramount Boulevard, Lakewood, California, 90712;
telephone: (562) 627-5222; facsimile: (562) 627-5210; and
--For the airplanes manufactured in the United States (Type Certificate
A10SW): Mr. Andy McAnaul, Aerospace Engineer, FAA, Airplane
Certification Office, 2601 Meacham Boulevard, Fort Worth, Texas 76193-
0150; telephone: (817) 222-5156; facsimile: (817) 222-5960.
SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION:
[[Page 50065]]
Discussion
What Events Have Caused This AD?
The Japanese Civil Airworthiness Bureau (JCAB), which is the
airworthiness authority for Japan, notified the FAA that an unsafe
condition may exist on certain Mitsubishi MU-2B series airplanes. The
JCAB reports that several Mitsubishi MU-2B series airplanes have had
windshield or window separation during flight. Separation is defined as
shattering glass. Further analysis shows that the separation is
happening as a result of repeated cabin pressurization cycles.
Has FAA Taken Any Action to This Point?
We issued a proposal to amend part 39 of the Federal Aviation
Regulations (14 CFR part 39) to include an AD that would apply to
certain Mitsubishi MU-2B series airplanes. This proposal was published
in the Federal Register as a supplemental notice of proposed rulemaking
(NPRM) on March 26, 2003 (68 FR 14558). The supplemental NPRM proposed
to require you to:
--Repetitively inspect the cockpit windshield and cabin window surfaces
for damage (damage would be defined as crazing, scratches, and cracks);
--Blend out the damage if the damage does not exceed certain limits;
and
--Replace the windshield or window if damage exceeds certain limits.
What Is the Potential Impact if FAA Took No Action?
This condition, if not corrected, could result in shattering or
separation of the cockpit windshield or cabin windows during flight,
which could cause loss of control of the airplane.
Was the Public Invited To Comment?
The FAA encouraged interested persons to participate in the making
of this amendment. The following presents the comments received on the
proposal and FAA's response to each comment:
Comment Issue No. 1: Update the Contact Information for Mitsubishi
Heavy Industries America, Inc. (MHIA)
What Is the Commenter's Concern?
MIHA has moved and the contact information should be changed to
reflect the new address and telephone numbers.
What Is FAA's Response to the Concern?
We concur and have changed the final rule based on this comment.
Comment Issue No. 2: Remove the Contact Information for Mitsubishi
Heavy Industries, Nagoya, Japan
What Is the Commenter's Concern?
MIHA is licensed by Mitsubishi Heavy Industries, Ltd. to maintain
the type design for Model MU-2B series airplanes. Since MIHA
manufactures replacement and modification parts for Model MU-2B series
airplanes and is responsible for worldwide support the these airplanes,
the reference to Mitsubishi Heavy Industries, Nagoya, Japan should be
removed.
What Is FAA's Response to the Concern?
We concur and have changed the final rule based on this comment.
Comment Issue No. 3: Clarify Which Service Bulletin Is Applicable to
the Affected Airplane Models and Serial Numbers
What Is the Commenter's Concern?
The commenter states that the final rule AD should clearly define
which service bulletin is applicable to each airplane model and serial
number in order to facilitate the owners/operators in obtaining the
correct service bulletin for their airplane.
What Is FAA's Response to the Concern?
We concur with the commenter. In paragraphs (a)(2)(i) and
(a)(2)(ii) of the proposed AD, we specifically referenced the affected
airplane models and serial numbers that are applicable to each service
bulletin. We have added language in paragraph (d) to further clarify
this issue.
We have changed the final rule based on this comment.
Comment Issue No. 4: Update the Cost for Parts and Add Configuration
Information in the Cost Impact Section
What Is the Commenter's Concern?
Since the issuance of the proposed AD, the price for replacements
parts has significantly increased. The cost impact section should be
changed to reflect current pricing and should also include the number
of windshields and cabin windows each airplane has in its
configuration.
What Is FAA's Response to the Concern?
We concur and have changed the final rule based on this comment.
FAA's Determination
What Is FAA's Final Determination on this Issue?
After careful reviewed all available information related to the
subject presented above, we have determined that air safety and the
public interest require the adoption of the rule as proposed except for
minor editorial corrections. We have determined that these minor
corrections:
--Provide the intent that was proposed in the supplemental NPRM for
correcting the unsafe condition; and
--Do not add any additional burden upon the public than was already
proposed in the supplemental NPRM.
How Does the Revision to 14 CFR Part 39 Affect This AD?
On July 10, 2002, FAA published a new version of 14 CFR part 39 (67
FR 47997, July 22, 2002), which governs FAA's AD system. This
regulation now includes material that relates to special flight
permits, alternative methods of compliance, and altered products. This
material previously was included in each individual AD. Since this
material is included in 14 CFR part 39, we will not include it in
future AD actions.
Cost Impact
How Many Airplanes Does This AD Impact?
We estimate that this AD affects 315 airplanes in the U.S.
registry.
What Is the Cost Impact of This AD on Owners/Operators of the Affected
Airplanes?
We estimate the following costs to accomplish the inspection:
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Total cost per
Labor cost Parts cost airplane Total cost on U.S. operators
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8 workhours x $60 = $480........... No parts required.... $480 $480 x 315 = $151,200
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[[Page 50066]]
We estimate the following costs to accomplish any necessary
replacements that will be required based on the results of the
inspection. We have no way of determining the number of airplanes that
may need such replacement:
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Number of Number of Total cost
Parts cost per part No. parts per parts per per
Labor cost (P/N) short body long body windshield/
model model window
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16 workhours x $60 = $960.................. 010A-31450-1 = $6,893 1 1 $7,853
010A-31450-2 = $6,893 1 1 7,853
010A-31451-1 = $5,024 1 1 5,984
010A-31451-2 = $5,029 1 1 5,989
010A-31874-1 = $4,838 1 1 5,798
010A-31874-2 = $4,838 1 1 5,798
010A-31870 = $3,279 2 5 4,239
010A-31870-11 = $3,279 2 2 4,239
030A-32402 = $2,308 0 1 3,268
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Regulatory Impact
Does This AD Impact Various Entities?
The regulations adopted herein 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. Therefore, it
is determined that this final rule does not have federalism
implications under Executive Order 13132.
Does This AD Involve a Significant Rule or Regulatory Action?
For the reasons discussed above, I certify that this action (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); 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. A copy of the final evaluation prepared for this
action is contained in the Rules Docket. A copy of it may be obtained
by contacting the Rules Docket at the location provided under the
caption ADDRESSES.
List of Subjects in 14 CFR Part 39
Air transportation, Aircraft, Aviation safety, Incorporation by
reference, Safety.
Adoption of the Amendment
0
Accordingly, under the authority delegated to me by the Administrator,
the Federal Aviation Administration amends part 39 of the Federal
Aviation Regulations (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. FAA amends Sec. 39.13 by adding a new AD to read as follows:
2003-17-04 Mitsubishi Heavy Industries, Ltd: Amendment 39-13278;
Docket No. 97-CE-27-AD.
(a) What airplanes are affected by this AD? This AD affects the
airplane models and serial numbers specified in paragraphs (a)(2)(i)
and (a)(2)(ii) of this AD that are equipped with the following part-
numbered windshields and cabin windows and that are certificated in
any category:
(1) Windshields
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Part No. Type of windshield
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010A-31450-1/-2......................... Windshield (LH/RH).
010A-31451-1/-2......................... Cockpit side window (LH/RH).
010A-31874-1/-2......................... Cockpit side window (LH/RH).
010A-31870.............................. Cabin window.
010A-31870-11........................... Cabin window (at door).
030A-32402.............................. Long body--small cabin window.
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Note 1: The heated windshield is excluded from the inspection
and replacement requirements of this AD.
(2) Airplanes Affected by This AD and Applicable Service Information
(i) Mitsubishi MU-2 Service Bulletin No. 224C applies to the
following airplane models and serial numbers:
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Models Serial Nos.
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MU-2B/-10/-15/-20/-25/-26................. 008 through 347 (except 313
and 321).
MU-2B-30/-35/-36.......................... 501 through 696 (except 652
and 661).
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(ii) Mitsubishi MU-2 Service Bulletin No. 087/56-001B applies to
the following airplane models and serial numbers:
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Models Serial Nos.
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MU-2B-25/-26/-26A/-40..................... 313SA, 321SA, and 348SA
through 459SA.
MU-2B-35/-36A/-60......................... 652SA, 661SA, and 697SA
through 1569SA.
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(b) Who must comply with this AD? Anyone who wishes to operate
any of the airplanes identified in paragraph (a) of this AD must
comply with this AD.
(c) What problem does this AD address? The actions specified by
this AD are intended to prevent cockpit windshield or cabin window
separation during flight, which could result in engine ingestion of
glass, wing skin damage, or propeller damage, and possible loss of
control of the airplane.
(d) What actions must I accomplish to address this problem? To
address this problem, you must accomplish the following:
[[Page 50067]]
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Actions Compliance Procedures
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(1) Inspect the cockpit Within the next 100 In accordance with
windshields and cabin hours time-in- Mitsubishi MU-2
windows for scratching, service (TIS) after Service Bulletin
crazing, and cracking October 3, 2003 No. 224 (applicable
(referred to as damage). (the effective date to models and
of this AD) and serial numbers
thereafter at specified in
intervals not to paragraph (a)(2)(i)
exceed 100 hours of this AD and as
TIS from the last specified in
inspection, repair paragraph (f) of
or replacement. this AD) and
Mitsubishi MU-2
Service Bulletin
087/56-001
(applicable to
models and serial
numbers specified
in paragraph
(a)(2)(ii) of this
AD and as specified
in paragraph (f) of
this AD).
(2) Replace any window or Prior to further In accordance with
windshield if damaged flight after the Mitsubishi MU-2
beyond the limits specified inspection in which Service Bulletin
in Mitsubishi MU-2 Service the damage was No. 224 (applicable
Bulletin No. 224 found. to models and
(applicable to models and serial numbers
serial numbers specified in specified in
paragraph (a)(2)(i) of this paragraph (a)(2)(i)
AD and as specified in of this AD and as
paragraph (f) of this AD) specified in
and Mitsubishi MU-2 Service paragraph (f) of
Bulletin 087/56-001 this AD) and
(applicable to models and Mitsubishi MU-2
serial numbers specified in Service Bulletin
paragraph (a)(2)(ii) of 087/56-001
this AD and as specified in (applicable to
paragraph (f) of this AD). models and serial
numbers specified
in paragraph
(a)(2)(ii) of this
AD and as specified
in paragraph (f) of
this AD).
(3) Repair any damage in the Prior to further In accordance with
windshield or window that flight after the the applicable
is within the limits inspection in which Mitsubishi
specified in Mitsubishi MU- the damage was Maintenance Manual.
2 Service Bulletin No. 224 found.
(applicable to models and
serial numbers specified in
paragraph (a)(2)(i) of this
AD and as specified in
paragraph (f) of this AD)
and Mitsubishi MU-2 Service
Bulletin 087/56-001
(applicable to models and
serial numbers specified in
paragraph (a)(2)(ii) of
this AD and as specified in
paragraph (f) of this AD).
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(e) Can I comply with this AD in any other way? To use an
alternative method of compliance or adjust the compliance time, use
the procedures in 14 CFR 39.19. Send these requests to the Manager,
Standards Office, Small Airplane Directorate. For information on any
already approved alternative methods of compliance, direct all
questions to:
(1) For the airplanes manufactured in Japan ( Type Certificate
A2PC): Mr. Carl Fountain, Aerospace Engineer, Los Angeles Aircraft
Certification Office, FAA, 3960 Paramount Boulevard, Lakewood,
California 90712; telephone: (562) 627-5222; facsimile: (562) 627-
5210; and
(2) For the airplanes manufactured in the United States (Type
Certificate A10SW): Mr. Andy McAnaul, Aerospace Engineer, FAA,
Airplane Certification Office, 2601 Meacham Boulevard, Fort Worth,
Texas 76193-0150; telephone: (817) 222-5156; facsimile: (817) 222-
5960.
(f) Are any service bulletins incorporated into this AD by
reference?
(1) Actions required by this AD must be done in accordance with
the following:
(i) Mitsubishi MU-2 Service Bulletin No. 224 which incorporates
the following pages:
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Affected pages Revision level Date
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3, 5, and 6............................ Original Issue............ June 30, 1995.
2, 4................................... B......................... November 11, 1996.
1...................................... C......................... April 20, 1998.
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(ii) Mitsubishi MU-2 Service Bulletin 087/56-001 which
incorporates the following pages:
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Affected pages Revision level Date
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
3, 5, and 6............................ Original Issue............ June 29, 1995.
2...................................... A......................... September 26, 1996.
1, 4................................... B......................... May 4, 1998.
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(2) The Director of the Federal Register approved this
incorporation by reference under 5 U.S.C. 552(a) and 1 CFR part 51.
You may get copies from Mitsubishi Heavy Industries America, Inc.,
4951 Airport Parkway, suite 800, Addison, Texas 75001; telephone:
(972) 934-5480; facsimile: (972) 934-5488. You may view copies at
the FAA, Central Region, Office of the Regional Counsel, 901 Locust,
Room 506, Kansas City, Missouri, or at the Office of the Federal
Register, 800 North Capitol Street, NW., suite 700, Washington, DC.
Note 2: The subject of this AD is addressed in Japanese AD No.
TCD-4311-95, dated November 15, 1995.
(i) When does this amendment become effective? This amendment
becomes effective on October 3, 2003.
Issued in Kansas City, Missouri, on August 12, 2003.
Diane K. Malone,
Acting Manager, Small Airplane Directorate, Aircraft Certification
Service.
[FR Doc. 03-20985 Filed 8-19-03; 8:45 am]
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