[Federal Register: June 15, 2005 (Volume 70, Number 114)]
[Rules and Regulations]
[Page 34636-34638]
From the Federal Register Online via GPO Access [wais.access.gpo.gov]
[DOCID:fr15jn05-4]
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DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION
Federal Aviation Administration
14 CFR Part 39
[Docket No. FAA-2005-21433; Directorate Identifier 2005-NM-079-AD;
Amendment 39-14123; AD 2005-12-07]
RIN 2120-AA64
Airworthiness Directives; Airbus Model A319, A320, and A321
Series Airplanes
AGENCY: Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), Department of
Transportation (DOT).
ACTION: Final rule; request for comments.
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SUMMARY: The FAA is adopting a new airworthiness directive (AD) for
certain Airbus Model A319, A320, and A321 series airplanes. This AD
requires a one-time ultrasonic inspection for certain airplanes, and
repetitive detailed inspections for all airplanes, for cracking in the
forward lug of the support rib 5 fitting of both main landing gear
(MLG), and repair if necessary. This AD also provides for optional
terminating actions. This AD is prompted by a report of a crack found
in the forward lug of the right-hand MLG rib 5 fitting during greasing
of both MLG pintle bearings. We are issuing this AD to find and fix
cracking in the forward lug of the MLG, which could result in failure
of the lug and consequent collapse of the MLG during landing.
DATES: Effective June 30, 2005.
The incorporation by reference of a certain publication listed in
the AD is approved by the Director of the Federal Register as of June
30, 2005.
We must receive comments on this AD by August 15, 2005.
ADDRESSES: Use one of the following addresses to submit comments on
this AD.
DOT Docket Web site: Go to http://dms.dot.gov and follow
the instructions for sending your comments electronically.
Government-wide rulemaking Web site: Go to http://www.regulations.gov
and follow the instructions for sending your
comments electronically.
Mail: Docket Management Facility; U.S. Department of
Transportation, 400 Seventh Street SW., Nassif Building, room PL-401,
Washington, DC 20590.
Fax: (202) 493-2251.
Hand Delivery: Room PL-401 on the plaza level of the
Nassif Building, 400 Seventh Street SW., Washington, DC, between 9 a.m.
and 5 p.m., Monday through Friday, except Federal holidays.
For service information identified in this AD, contact Airbus, 1
Rond Point Maurice Bellonte, 31707 Blagnac Cedex, France.
You can examine the contents of this AD docket on the Internet at
http://dms.dot.gov, or in person at the Docket Management Facility,
U.S. Department of Transportation, 400 Seventh Street SW., room PL-401,
on the plaza level of the Nassif Building, Washington, DC. This docket
number is FAA-2005-21433; the directorate identifier for this docket is
2005-NM-079-AD.
Examining the Docket
You can examine the AD docket on the Internet at http://dms.dot.gov
, or in person at the Docket Management Facility office
between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m., Monday through Friday, except Federal
holidays. The Docket Management Facility office (telephone (800) 647-
5227) is located on the plaza level of the Nassif Building at the DOT
street address stated in the ADDRESSES section. Comments will be
available in the AD docket shortly after the Docket Management System
(DMS) receives them.
FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Tim Dulin, Aerospace Engineer,
International Branch, ANM-116, FAA, Transport Airplane Directorate,
1601 Lind Avenue, SW., Renton, Washington 98055-4056; telephone (425)
227-2141; fax (425) 227-1149.
SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: The Direction G[eacute]n[eacute]rale de
l'Aviation Civile (DGAC), which is the airworthiness authority for
France, notified the FAA that an unsafe condition may exist on certain
Airbus Model A319, A320, and A321 series airplanes. The DGAC advises
that, during greasing of the main landing gear (MLG) pintle bearings on
a Model A320 series airplane, a crack was found in the forward lug of
the right-hand MLG rib 5 fitting. The airplane had accumulated 12,634
total flight cycles and 19,710 total flight hours at the time of the
findings. Laboratory analysis of the damaged lug revealed that it was
fitted with a bushing that had insufficient cadmium plating. Further
investigation revealed that certain Airbus Model A319 and A320 series
airplanes may have been equipped with bushings from a batch found to
have insufficient cadmium plating. The forward lug of the left- and
right-hand MLG rib 5 fitting of Airbus Model A319, A320, and A321
series airplanes that do not have Airbus Modification 32025
incorporated could also be susceptible to cracking. These conditions,
if not corrected, could result in failure of the lug and consequent
collapse of the MLG during landing.
Relevant Service Information
Airbus has issued Service Bulletin A320-57A1136, dated January 26,
2005 (for Model A319 and A320 series airplanes). The service bulletin
describes procedures for a one-time ultrasonic inspection for cracking
in the forward lug of the support rib 5 fitting of both MLG. The
service bulletin recommends contacting the manufacturer for repair
instructions if any cracking is found.
The DGAC mandated Service Bulletin A320-57A1136, and a detailed
visual inspection as defined in the visual procedures of Airbus A318/
A319/A320/A321 Nondestructive Testing Manual (NTM), Chapter 51-90-00,
revision dated February 2003; and issued French airworthiness directive
F-2005-035, dated March 2, 2005, to ensure the continued airworthiness
of these airplanes in France.
Airbus has also issued Service Bulletin A320-57-1118, dated
September 5, 2002, and Revision 01, dated August 28, 2003 (for Model
A319, A320, and A321 series airplanes). The service bulletins describe
procedures for modification of the lugs of the support rib 5 fitting of
the left- and right-hand MLG and related investigative and corrective
actions if necessary. The modification includes installing new bushings
on the lugs of the support rib 5 fitting of the MLG, and applying
protective sealant to the bores and spotfaces of the lug. The related
investigative and corrective actions include performing a visual
inspection for corrosion/damage of the bores and spotfaces of the lug
for the pintle pin bushings, and repair if corrosion/damage is found.
Accomplishing this
[[Page 34637]]
service bulletins eliminates the need to conduct the inspections
described above.
FAA's Determination and Requirements of This AD
These airplane models are manufactured in France and are type
certificated for operation in the United States under the provisions of
section 21.29 of the Federal Aviation Regulations (14 CFR 21.29) and
the applicable bilateral airworthiness agreement. Pursuant to this
bilateral airworthiness agreement, the DGAC has kept the FAA informed
of the situation described above. We have examined the DGAC's findings,
evaluated all pertinent information, and determined that we need to
issue an AD for products of this type design that are certificated for
operation in the United States.
Therefore, we are issuing this AD to require accomplishing the
actions specified in Service Bulletin A320-57A1136 (for Model A319 and
A320 series airplanes), described previously, except as discussed under
``Difference Between the AD and Service Bulletin A320-57A1136.'' This
AD also requires repetitive detailed inspections for all airplanes for
cracking in the forward lug of the support rib 5 fitting of the MLG,
and repair if necessary. This AD also provides for optional terminating
actions.
Difference Between the AD and Service Bulletin A320-57A1136
The service bulletin specifies that you may contact the
manufacturer for repair instructions if cracks are found, but this AD
requires you to repair any cracking by using a method that we or the
DGAC (or its delegated agent) approve. In light of the type of repair
required to address the unsafe condition, and consistent with existing
bilateral airworthiness agreements, we have determined that, for this
AD, a repair we or the DGAC approve is acceptable for compliance with
this AD.
Clarification of Inspection Terminology
In this AD, the ``detailed visual inspection'' specified in the
French airworthiness directive is referred to as a ``detailed
inspection.'' We have included the definition for a detailed inspection
in a note in the AD.
Interim Action
We consider this AD interim action. We are currently considering
requiring the optional modification of the lugs of the support rib 5
fitting of the left- and right-hand MLG, which would constitute
terminating action for the repetitive inspections required by this AD
action. However, the planned compliance time for the modification would
require us to provide notice and opportunity for prior public comment
on the merits of the modification.
FAA's Determination of the Effective Date
An unsafe condition exists that requires the immediate adoption of
this AD; therefore, providing notice and opportunity for public comment
before the AD is issued is impracticable, and good cause exists to make
this AD effective in less than 30 days.
Comments Invited
This AD is a final rule that involves requirements that affect
flight safety and was not preceded by notice and an opportunity for
public comment; however, we invite you to submit any relevant written
data, views, or arguments regarding this AD. Send your comments to an
address listed under ADDRESSES. Include ``Docket No. FAA-2005-21433;
Directorate Identifier 2005-NM-079-AD'' at the beginning of your
comments. We specifically invite comments on the overall regulatory,
economic, environmental, and energy aspects of the AD. We will consider
all comments received by the closing date and may amend the AD in light
of those comments.
We will post all comments we receive, without change, to http://dms.dot.gov
, including any personal information you provide. We will
also post a report summarizing each substantive verbal contact with FAA
personnel concerning this AD. Using the search function of our docket
Web site, anyone can find and read the comments in any of our dockets,
including the name of the individual who sent the comment (or signed
the comment on behalf of an association, business, labor union, etc.).
You can review the DOT's complete Privacy Act Statement in the Federal
Register published on April 11, 2000 (65 FR 19477-78), or you can visit
http://dms.dot.gov.
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 have 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 that the 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); 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. See the ADDRESSES section for a location to
examine the regulatory evaluation.
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 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):
2005-12-07 Airbus: Amendment 39-14123. Docket No. FAA-2005-21433;
Directorate Identifier 2005-NM-079-AD.
(b) None.
(b) None.
Effective Date
(a) This AD becomes effective June 30, 2005.
[[Page 34638]]
Affected ADs
(b) None.
Applicability
(c) This AD applies to Airbus Model A319, A320, and A321 series
airplanes, certificated in any category; except those on which
Airbus Modification 32025 was done during production.
Unsafe Condition
(d) This AD was prompted by a report of a crack found in the
forward lug of the right-hand main landing gear (MLG) rib 5 fitting
during greasing of the MLG pintle bearings. The FAA is issuing this
AD to find and fix cracking in the forward lug of the MLG, which
could result in failure of the lug and consequent collapse of the
MLG during landing.
Compliance
(e) You are responsible for having the actions required by this
AD performed within the compliance times specified, unless the
actions have already been done.
One-Time Ultrasonic Inspection/Repair
(f) For Model A319 and A320 series airplanes having serial
numbers 537 through 625 inclusive: At the earliest of the times
specified in paragraphs (f)(1), (f)(2), and (f)(3) of this AD;
perform a one-time ultrasonic inspection for cracking in the forward
lug of the support rib 5 fitting of the left- and right-hand MLG by
doing all the actions specified in the Accomplishment Instructions
of Airbus Service Bulletin A320-57A1136, dated January 26, 2005.
Repair any cracking before further flight, according to a method
approved by either the Manager, International Branch, ANM-116,
Transport Airplane Directorate, FAA; or the Direction
G[eacute]n[eacute]rale de l'Aviation Civile (DGAC) (or its delegated
agent).
(1) Within 750 flight cycles after the effective date of this
AD.
(2) Within 600 flight hours after the effective date of this AD.
(3) Within 100 days after the effective date of this AD.
Repetitive Detailed Inspections
(g) Perform a detailed inspection for cracking in the forward
lug of the support rib 5 fitting of the left- and right-hand MLG at
the time specified in paragraph (g)(1) or (g)(2) of this AD, as
applicable, and repair any cracking before further flight, according
to a method approved by either the Manager, International Branch,
ANM-116; or the DGAC (or its delegated agent). Accomplishing the
actions specified in the Airbus A318/A319/A320/A321 Non-destructive
Testing Manual, Chapter 51-90-00, revision dated February 2003, is
one approved method for performing the detailed inspection. Repeat
the inspection thereafter at intervals not to exceed 750 flight
cycles, 600 flight hours, or 100 days, whichever occurs earliest.
(1) For Model A319 and A320 series airplanes having serial
numbers 537 through 625 inclusive: Do the detailed inspection within
100 days after the effective date of this AD or at the earliest of
the times specified in paragraphs (g)(1)(i), (g)(1)(ii), and
(g)(1)(iii) of this AD, whichever is later.
(i) Within 750 flight cycles after accomplishing the ultrasonic
inspection.
(ii) Within 600 flight hours after accomplishing the ultrasonic
inspection.
(iii) Within 100 days after accomplishing the ultrasonic
inspection.
(2) For all other airplanes: Do the detailed inspection at the
earliest of the times specified in paragraphs (g)(2)(i), (g)(2)(ii),
and (g)(2)(iii) of this AD.
(i) Within 750 flight cycles after the effective date of this
AD.
(ii) Within 600 flight hours after the effective date of this
AD.
(iii) Within 100 days after the effective date of this AD.
Note 1: For the purposes of this AD, a detailed inspection is:
``An intensive examination of a specific item, installation, or
assembly to detect damage, failure, or irregularity. Available
lighting is normally supplemented with a direct source of good
lighting at an intensity deemed appropriate. Inspection aids such as
mirror, magnifying lenses, etc., may be necessary. Surface cleaning
and elaborate procedures may be required.''
Optional Terminating Action
(h) Modification of the lugs of the support rib 5 fitting of the
left- and right-hand MLG and accomplishment of all related
investigative actions and all applicable corrective actions in
accordance with Airbus Service Bulletin A320-57-1118, dated
September 5, 2002; or Revision 01, dated August 28, 2003;
constitutes compliance with the requirements of this AD.
(i) Repair of the forward lugs of the support rib 5 fitting of
the left- and right-hand MLG in accordance with Airbus A319
Structural Repair Manual, Chapter 5.C., 57-26-13: Airbus A320
Structural Repair Manual, Chapter 5.D., 57-26-13; and Airbus A321
Structural Repair Manual, Chapter 5.D., all revisions dated November
1, 2004, constitutes compliance with the requirements of this AD.
Alternative Methods of Compliance (AMOCs)
(j) The Manager, International Branch, ANM-116, has the
authority to approve AMOCs for this AD, if requested in accordance
with the procedures found in 14 CFR 39.19.
Related Information
(k) French airworthiness directive F-2005-035, dated March 2,
2005, also addresses the subject of this AD.
Material Incorporated by Reference
(l) You must use Airbus Service Bulletin A320-57A1136, dated
January 26, 2005, to perform the actions that are required by this
AD, unless the AD specifies otherwise. The Director of the Federal
Register approves the incorporation by reference of this document in
accordance with 5 U.S.C. 552(a) and 1 CFR part 51. To get copies of
the service information, contact Airbus, 1 Rond Point Maurice
Bellonte, 31707 Blagnac Cedex, France. To view the AD docket, go to
the Docket Management Facility, U.S. Department of Transportation,
400 Seventh Street SW., room PL-401, Nassif Building, Washington,
DC. To review copies of the service information, go to the National
Archives and Records Administration (NARA). For information on the
availability of this material at the 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 June 6, 2005.
Michael J. Kaszycki,
Acting Manager, Transport Airplane Directorate, Aircraft Certification
Service.
[FR Doc. 05-11707 Filed 6-14-05; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE 4910-13-P