[Federal Register: December 30, 2005 (Volume 70, Number 250)]
[Rules and Regulations]
[Page 77301-77303]
From the Federal Register Online via GPO Access [wais.access.gpo.gov]
[DOCID:fr30de05-3]
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DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION
Federal Aviation Administration
14 CFR Part 39
[Docket No. FAA-2005-21611; Directorate Identifier 2004-NM-234-AD;
Amendment 39-14438; AD 2005-26-17]
RIN 2120-AA64
Airworthiness Directives; Airbus Model A300 B4-600, B4-600R, and
F4-600R Series Airplanes, and Model A300 C4-605R Variant F Airplanes
(Collectively Called A300-600 Series Airplanes); and Model A310-200 and
-300 Series Airplanes
AGENCY: Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), Department of
Transportation (DOT).
ACTION: Final rule.
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SUMMARY: The FAA is adopting a new airworthiness directive (AD) for
certain Airbus Model A300-600, A310-200, and A310-300 series airplanes.
This AD requires inspecting for certain serial numbers on elevators,
and doing a detailed inspection, visual inspection with a low-angle
light, and tap-test inspection of the upper and lower surfaces of the
external skins on certain identified elevators for any damage (i.e.,
debonding of the graphite fiber reinforced plastic/Tedlar film
protection, bulges, debonding of the honeycomb core to the carbon fiber
reinforced plastic, abnormal surface reflections, and torn-out plies),
and doing corrective actions if necessary. This AD results from reports
of debonded skins on the elevators. We are issuing this AD to detect
and correct debonding of the skins on the elevators, which could cause
reduced structural integrity of an elevator and reduced controllability
of the airplane.
DATES: This AD becomes effective February 3, 2006.
The Director of the Federal Register approved the incorporation by
reference of certain publications listed in the AD as of February 3,
2006.
ADDRESSES: You may examine the 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., Nassif Building,
room PL-401, Washington, DC.
Contact Airbus, 1 Rond Point Maurice Bellonte, 31707 Blagnac Cedex,
France, for service information identified in this AD.
FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Tim Backman, Aerospace Engineer,
International Branch, ANM-116, FAA, Transport Airplane Directorate,
1601 Lind Avenue, SW., Renton, Washington 98055-4056; telephone (425)
227-2797; fax (425) 227-1149.
SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION:
Examining the Docket
You may 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 street address stated in the
ADDRESSES section.
Discussion
The FAA issued a notice of proposed rulemaking (NPRM) to amend 14
CFR part 39 to include an AD that would apply to certain Airbus Model
A300 B4-600, B4-600R, and F4-600R series airplanes; Model A300 C4-605R
Variant F airplanes (collectively called A300-600 series airplanes);
and Model A310 series airplanes. That NPRM was published in the Federal
Register on June 22, 2005 (70 FR 36073). That NPRM proposed to require
inspecting for certain serial numbers on elevators, and doing a
detailed inspection, visual inspection with a low-angle light, and tap-
test inspection of the upper and lower surfaces of the external skins
on certain identified elevators for any damage (i.e., debonding of the
graphite fiber reinforced plastic/Tedlar film protection, bulges,
debonding of the honeycomb core to the carbon fiber reinforced plastic,
abnormal surface reflections, and torn-out plies), and corrective
actions if necessary.
Comments
We provided the public the opportunity to participate in the
development of this AD. We have considered the comment received.
Request To Clarify Applicability
The commenter, the airplane manufacturer, requests that we clarify
the applicability statement of the proposed AD. The proposed AD states
that the AD would apply to affected models ``equipped with carbon fiber
elevators having part number (P/N) A55276055000 (left-hand side) or P/N
A55276056000 (right-hand side).'' The commenter notes that the related
French airworthiness directive states that it is effective for affected
models ``equipped with carbon fiber elevators P/N A55276055000 (left-
hand side) and P/N A55276056000 (right-hand side), installed as per
modification 4805, * * *.'' The commenter asks that we
[[Page 77302]]
revise the applicability statement of the proposed AD to indicate that
an affected airplane would be equipped with both the left- and right-
hand side P/Ns, and that the proposed AD only applies to airplanes with
these P/Ns installed in accordance with (Airbus) Modification 4805.
We partially agree with the commenter's request.
After the comment period closed, we coordinated with the commenter
to gain a better understanding of its comments. This coordination
resulted in agreement between the FAA and the commenter that, because
carbon fiber elevators are interchangeable among any airplanes with
Airbus Modification 4805, it is more appropriate for this AD to apply
to affected models ``equipped with carbon fiber elevators P/N
A55276055000 (left-hand side) or P/N A55276056000 (right-hand side),''
as specified in the NPRM. (The commenter requests that we disregard its
former objection concerning the use of ``or'' instead of ``and.'')
Thus, no change is needed in this regard.
Regarding the commenter's other request, we agree to revise the
applicability statement to clarify that carbon fiber elevators with the
affected P/Ns were installed under Airbus Modification 4805.
Explanation of Additional Change to Applicability
We have revised the applicability of this AD to identify model
designations as published in the most recent type certificate data
sheet for the affected models.
Clarification of Alternative Method of Compliance (AMOC) Paragraph
We have revised this action to clarify the appropriate procedure
for notifying the principal inspector before using any approved AMOC on
any airplane to which the AMOC applies.
Conclusion
We have carefully reviewed the available data, including the
comment received, and determined that air safety and the public
interest require adopting the AD with the changes described previously.
We have determined that these changes will neither increase the
economic burden on any operator nor increase the scope of the AD.
Interim Action
This is considered to be interim action. The manufacturer has
advised that it currently is developing a modification that will
address the unsafe condition addressed by this AD. Once this
modification is developed, approved, and available, the FAA may
consider additional rulemaking.
Costs of Compliance
This AD will affect about 172 airplanes of U.S. registry.
The inspection for the serial number will take about 1 work hour
per airplane, at an average labor rate of $65 per work hour. Based on
these figures, the estimated cost of this action for U.S. operators is
$11,180, or $65 per airplane.
The detailed inspection, visual inspection with a low-angle light,
and tap-test inspection of the elevator will take about 3 work hours
per elevator (two elevators per airplane), at an average labor rate of
$65 per work hour. Based on these figures, the estimated cost of this
action for U.S. operators is $67,080, or $390 per airplane, per
inspection cycle.
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 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); 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. 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 Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) amends Sec. 39.13 by
adding the following new airworthiness directive (AD):
2005-26-17 Airbus: Amendment 39-14438. Docket No. FAA-2005-21611;
Directorate Identifier 2004-NM-234-AD.
Effective Date
(a) This AD becomes effective February 3, 2006.
Affected ADs
(b) None.
Applicability
(c) This AD applies to Airbus Model A300 B4-601, B4-603, B4-620,
B4-622, B4-605R, B4-622R, C4-605R Variant F, F4-605R, and F4-622R
airplanes; and Model A310-203, -204, -221, -222, -304, -322, -324,
and -325 airplanes; certificated in any category; equipped with
carbon fiber elevators having part number (P/N) A55276055000 (left-
hand side) or P/N A55276056000 (right-hand side), installed under
Airbus Modification 04805.
Unsafe Condition
(d) This AD results from reports of debonded skins on the
elevators. The FAA is issuing this AD to detect and correct
debonding of the skins on the elevators, which could cause reduced
structural integrity of an elevator and reduced controllability of
the airplane.
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.
Inspection for Serial Number, Repetitive Inspections, and Corrective
Actions
(f) Within 600 flight hours after the effective date of this AD,
inspect to
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determine if the serial number (S/N) of the elevator is listed in
Airbus All Operators Telex (AOT) A300-600-55A6032, dated June 23,
2004 (for Model A300 B4-601, B4-603, B4-620, B4-622, B4-605R, B4-
622R, C4-605R Variant F, F4-605R, and F4-622R airplanes); or in
Airbus AOT A310-55A2033, dated June 23, 2004 (for Model A310-203, -
204, -221, -222, -304, -322, -324, and -325 airplanes).
(1) If the S/N does not match any S/N on either AOT S/N list, no
further action is required by this paragraph.
(2) If the S/N matches a S/N listed in an AOT, before further
flight, do the actions listed in Table 1 of this AD, and any
corrective action as applicable, in accordance with Airbus AOT A300-
600-55A6032, dated June 23, 2004; or Airbus AOT A310-55A2033, dated
June 23, 2004; as applicable. Repeat the inspections at intervals
not to exceed 600 flight hours. Do applicable corrective actions
before further flight.
Table 1.--Repetitive Inspections
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Do a-- Of the-- For any--
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Detailed inspection........... Elevator upper Damage (i.e., breaks
and lower in the graphite
external skin fiber reinforced
surfaces. plastic (GFRP)/
Tedlar film
protection, debonded
GFRP/Tedlar film
protection, bulges,
torn-out plies).
Visual inspection with a low- Elevator upper Differences in the
angle light. and lower surface reflection.
external skin
surfaces.
Tap-test inspection........... Upper and lower Honeycomb core that
external skin has debonded from
surfaces of the the carbon fiber
honeycomb core reinforced plastic
panels in the (CFRP).
elevator.
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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
mirrors magnifying lenses, etc. may be necessary. Surface cleaning
and elaborate procedures may be required.''
Repair Approval
(g) Where the AOT says to contact the manufacturer for repair
instructions, or an alternative inspection method: Before further
flight, repair or do the alternative inspection method according to
a method approved by either the Manager, International Branch, ANM-
116, FAA, Transport Airplane Directorate; or the Direction
G[eacute]n[eacute]rale de l'Aviation Civile (DGAC) (or its delegated
agent).
Parts Installation
(h) As of the effective date of this AD, no carbon fiber
elevator having part number (P/N) A55276055000 (left-hand side) or
P/N A55276056000 (right-hand side) may be installed on any airplane
unless it is inspected according to paragraph (f) of this AD.
No Reporting Required
(i) Although the AOTs referenced in this AD specify to submit
inspection reports to the manufacturer, this AD does not include
that requirement.
Alternative Methods of Compliance (AMOCs)
(j)(1) 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.
(2) Before using any AMOC approved in accordance with 14 CFR
39.19 on any airplane to which the AMOC applies, notify the
appropriate principal inspector in the FAA Flight Standards
Certificate Holding District Office.
Related Information
(k) French airworthiness directive F-2004-131, dated August 4,
2004, also addresses the subject of this AD.
Material Incorporated by Reference
(l) You must use Airbus All Operators Telex A300-600-55A6032,
dated June 23, 2004; or Airbus All Operators Telex A310-55A2033,
dated June 23, 2004; as applicable; to perform the actions that are
required by this AD, unless the AD specifies otherwise. (The
document number and date are only included on the first page of
these documents.) The Director of the Federal Register approved the
incorporation by reference of these documents in accordance with 5
U.S.C. 552(a) and 1 CFR part 51. Contact Airbus, 1 Rond Point
Maurice Bellonte, 31707 Blagnac Cedex, France, for a copy of this
service information. You may review copies at the Docket Management
Facility, U.S. Department of Transportation, 400 Seventh Street SW.,
Room PL-401, Nassif Building, Washington, DC; on the Internet at
http://dms.dot.gov; or at 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 December 15, 2005.
Ali Bahrami,
Manager, Transport Airplane Directorate, Aircraft Certification
Service.
[FR Doc. 05-24531 Filed 12-29-05; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE 4910-13-U