Proposed Rule2023-16189
Airworthiness Directives; Airbus SAS Airplanes
Primary source
Metadata and text below are from the Federal Register, a public-domain U.S. government work. Always verify the official published version before relying on it for any legal matter.
Published
August 1, 2023
Issuing agencies
Transportation DepartmentFederal Aviation Administration
Abstract
The FAA proposes to supersede Airworthiness Directive (AD) 2019-12-07, which applies to all Airbus SAS Model A318-111, -112, -121, and -122 airplanes; Model A319-111, -112, -113, -114, -115, -131, -132, and -133 airplanes; Model A320-211, -212, -214, -216, -231, -232, and - 233 airplanes; and Model A321-111, -112, -131, -211, -212, -213, -231, and -232 airplanes. AD 2019-12-07 requires replacement of both main landing gear (MLG) shock absorbers, an identification of affected MLG sliding tubes; inspection of affected chromium plates and sliding tube axles for damage; and replacement of the sliding tube if necessary. AD 2019-12-07 also requires repetitive inspections of affected MLG sliding tubes for cracking, replacement of cracked MLG sliding tubes, and eventual replacement of each affected MLG sliding tube. Since the FAA issued AD 2019-12-07, the FAA has determined that additional MLG sliding tubes are affected by the unsafe condition and that the repetitive inspection interval may be extended. This proposed AD would continue to require the actions specified in AD 2019-12-07 and would require repetitive inspections of additional MLG sliding tubes, replacement if necessary, and eventual replacement of the additional MLG sliding tubes. This proposed AD would also extend the repetitive inspection interval. This proposed AD would also prohibit the installation of affected parts under certain conditions. The FAA is proposing this AD to address the unsafe condition on these products.
Full Text
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<title>Federal Register, Volume 88 Issue 146 (Tuesday, August 1, 2023)</title>
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[Federal Register Volume 88, Number 146 (Tuesday, August 1, 2023)]
[Proposed Rules]
[Pages 50067-50076]
From the Federal Register Online via the Government Publishing Office [<a href="http://www.gpo.gov">www.gpo.gov</a>]
[FR Doc No: 2023-16189]
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Proposed Rules
Federal Register
________________________________________________________________________
This section of the FEDERAL REGISTER contains notices to the public of
the proposed issuance of rules and regulations. The purpose of these
notices is to give interested persons an opportunity to participate in
the rule making prior to the adoption of the final rules.
========================================================================
Federal Register / Vol. 88, No. 146 / Tuesday, August 1, 2023 /
Proposed Rules
[[Page 50067]]
DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION
Federal Aviation Administration
14 CFR Part 39
[Docket No. FAA-2023-1645; Project Identifier MCAI-2022-01296-T]
RIN 2120-AA64
Airworthiness Directives; Airbus SAS Airplanes
AGENCY: Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), DOT.
ACTION: Notice of proposed rulemaking (NPRM).
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SUMMARY: The FAA proposes to supersede Airworthiness Directive (AD)
2019-12-07, which applies to all Airbus SAS Model A318-111, -112, -121,
and -122 airplanes; Model A319-111, -112, -113, -114, -115, -131, -132,
and -133 airplanes; Model A320-211, -212, -214, -216, -231, -232, and -
233 airplanes; and Model A321-111, -112, -131, -211, -212, -213, -231,
and -232 airplanes. AD 2019-12-07 requires replacement of both main
landing gear (MLG) shock absorbers, an identification of affected MLG
sliding tubes; inspection of affected chromium plates and sliding tube
axles for damage; and replacement of the sliding tube if necessary. AD
2019-12-07 also requires repetitive inspections of affected MLG sliding
tubes for cracking, replacement of cracked MLG sliding tubes, and
eventual replacement of each affected MLG sliding tube. Since the FAA
issued AD 2019-12-07, the FAA has determined that additional MLG
sliding tubes are affected by the unsafe condition and that the
repetitive inspection interval may be extended. This proposed AD would
continue to require the actions specified in AD 2019-12-07 and would
require repetitive inspections of additional MLG sliding tubes,
replacement if necessary, and eventual replacement of the additional
MLG sliding tubes. This proposed AD would also extend the repetitive
inspection interval. This proposed AD would also prohibit the
installation of affected parts under certain conditions. The FAA is
proposing this AD to address the unsafe condition on these products.
DATES: The FAA must receive comments on this proposed AD by September
15, 2023.
ADDRESSES: You may send comments, using the procedures found in 14 CFR
11.43 and 11.45, by any of the following methods:
<bullet> Federal eRulemaking Portal: Go to <a href="http://regulations.gov">regulations.gov</a>. Follow
the instructions for submitting comments.
<bullet> Fax: 202-493-2251.
<bullet> 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.
<bullet> Hand Delivery: Deliver to Mail address above between 9
a.m. and 5 p.m., Monday through Friday, except Federal holidays.
AD Docket: You may examine the AD docket at <a href="http://regulations.gov">regulations.gov</a> under
Docket No. FAA-2023-1645; or in person at Docket Operations between 9
a.m. and 5 p.m., Monday through Friday, except Federal holidays. The AD
docket contains this NPRM, the mandatory continuing airworthiness
information (MCAI), any comments received, and other information. The
street address for Docket Operations is listed above.
Material Incorporated by Reference:
<bullet> For Airbus service information identified in this NPRM,
contact Airbus SAS, Airworthiness Office--EIAS, Rond-Point Emile
Dewoitine No: 2, 31700 Blagnac Cedex, France; telephone +33 5 61 93 36
96; fax +33 5 61 93 44 51; email <a href="/cdn-cgi/l/email-protection#e28381818d978c96cc838b90958d90968acf878391a2de83c28a908784df" http: airbus.com">airbus.com</a>">account.airworth-eas@<a href="http://airbus.com">airbus.com</a></a>;
website <a href="http://airbus.com">airbus.com</a>.
<bullet> For Safran and Messier-Dowty service information
identified in this NPRM, contact Safran Landing Systems, One Carbon
Way, Walton, KY 41094; telephone 859-525-8583; fax 859-485-8827;
website <a href="http://www.safran-landing-systems.com">www.safran-landing-systems.com</a>.
<bullet> You may view this service information at the FAA,
Airworthiness Products Section, Operational Safety Branch, 2200 South
216th St., Des Moines, WA. For information on the availability of this
material at the FAA, call 206-231-3195.
FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Timothy Dowling, Aviation Safety
Engineer, FAA, 1600 Stewart Avenue, Suite 410, Westbury, NY 11590;
phone: 206-231-3667; email: <a href="/cdn-cgi/l/email-protection#b1e5d8dcdec5d9c89fe19ff5dec6ddd8dfd6f1d7d0d09fd6dec7"><span class="__cf_email__" data-cfemail="ebbf8286849f8392c5bbc5af849c8782858cab8d8a8ac58c849d">[email protected]</span></a>.
SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION:
Comments Invited
The FAA invites you to send any written relevant data, views, or
arguments about this proposal. Send your comments to an address listed
under ADDRESSES. Include ``Docket No. FAA-2023-1645; Project Identifier
MCAI-2022-01296-T'' at the beginning of your comments. The most helpful
comments reference a specific portion of the proposal, explain the
reason for any recommended change, and include supporting data. The FAA
will consider all comments received by the closing date and may amend
the proposal because of those comments.
Except for Confidential Business Information (CBI) as described in
the following paragraph, and other information as described in 14 CFR
11.35, the FAA will post all comments received, without change, to
<a href="http://regulations.gov">regulations.gov</a>, including any personal information you provide. The
agency will also post a report summarizing each substantive verbal
contact received about this NPRM.
Confidential Business Information
CBI is commercial or financial information that is both customarily
and actually treated as private by its owner. Under the Freedom of
Information Act (FOIA) (5 U.S.C. 552), CBI is exempt from public
disclosure. If your comments responsive to this NPRM contain commercial
or financial information that is customarily treated as private, that
you actually treat as private, and that is relevant or responsive to
this NPRM, it is important that you clearly designate the submitted
comments as CBI. Please mark each page of your submission containing
CBI as ``PROPIN.'' The FAA will treat such marked submissions as
confidential under the FOIA, and they will not be placed in the public
docket of this NPRM. Submissions containing CBI should be sent to
Timothy Dowling, Aviation Safety Engineer, FAA, 1600 Stewart Avenue,
Suite 410, Westbury, NY 11590; phone: 206-231-3667; email:
<a href="/cdn-cgi/l/email-protection#22764b4f4d564a5b0c720c664d554e4b4c45624443430c454d54"><span class="__cf_email__" data-cfemail="e4b08d898b908c9dcab4caa08b93888d8a83a4828585ca838b92">[email protected]</span></a>. Any commentary that the FAA receives which
is not specifically designated as
[[Page 50068]]
CBI will be placed in the public docket for this rulemaking.
Background
The FAA issued AD 2019-12-07, Amendment 39-19662 (84 FR 30579, June
27, 2019) (AD 2019-12-07), for all Airbus SAS Model A318-111, -112, -
121, and -122 airplanes; Model A319-111, -112, -113, -114, -115, -131,
-132, and -133 airplanes; Model A320-211, -212, -214, -216, -231, -232,
and -233 airplanes; and Model A321-111, -112, -131, -211, -212, -213, -
231, and -232 airplanes. AD 2019-12-07 was prompted by an MCAI
originated by the European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA), which
is the Technical Agent for the Member States of the European Union.
EASA issued AD 2018-0135, dated June 26, 2018 (EASA AD 2018-0135), to
correct an unsafe condition.
AD 2019-12-07 requires replacement of both MLG shock absorbers, an
identification of the part number and serial number of the MLG sliding
tubes, inspection of affected chromium plates and sliding tube axles
for damage, and replacement of the sliding tube if necessary. AD 2019-
12-07 also requires repetitive inspections of affected MLG sliding
tubes for cracking, replacement of cracked MLG sliding tubes, and
eventual replacement of each affected MLG sliding tube. The FAA issued
AD 2019-12-07 to address cracking in an MLG sliding tube, which could
lead to failure of an MLG sliding tube resulting in MLG collapse,
damage to the airplane, and injury to passengers.
Actions Since AD 2019-12-07 Was Issued
Since the FAA issued AD 2019-12-07, EASA superseded EASA AD 2018-
0135 and issued EASA AD 2022-0204R1, dated February 15, 2023; corrected
February 17, 2023; (referred to after this as the MCAI) to correct an
unsafe condition on all Airbus SAS Model A318-111, -112, -121, and -122
airplanes; Model A319-111, -112, -113, -114, -115, -131, -132, and -133
airplanes; Model A320-211, -212, -214, -215, -216, -231, -232, and -233
airplanes; and Model A321-111, -112, -131, -211, -212, -213, -231, and
-232 airplanes. Model A320-215 airplanes are not certificated by the
FAA and are not included on the U.S. type certificate data sheet; this
proposed AD therefore does not include those airplanes in the
applicability The MCAI states that since EASA AD 2018-0135 was issued,
two additional cases have been reported of cracking at the same
location of MLG sliding tubes not affected by the inspection
requirements and that service information was issued to include
additional actions for the newly affected MLG sliding tubes. In
addition, further investigation determined the repetitive inspection
interval may be extended from 5,000 flight cycles to 10,000 flight
cycles.
The FAA has determined that additional MLG sliding tubes are
affected by the unsafe condition and that the repetitive inspection
interval may be extended. The FAA is proposing this AD to address
cracking in an MLG sliding tube, which could lead to failure of an MLG
sliding tube resulting in MLG collapse, damage to the airplane, and
injury to passengers.
You may examine the MCAI in the AD docket at <a href="http://regulations.gov">regulations.gov</a> under
Docket No. FAA-2023-1645.
Related Service Information Under 1 CFR Part 51
The FAA reviewed Airbus Service Bulletin A320-32-1441, Revision 02,
dated August 23, 2022. This service information specifies procedures
for inspections of the MLG sliding tubes for cracking and corrective
actions (which includes replacing the MLG sliding tubes).
The FAA also reviewed Safran Service Bulletin 200-32-321, Revision
4, dated November 3, 2021; and Safran Service Bulletin 201-32-68,
Revision 4, dated November 3, 2021. These documents specify the part
numbers and serial numbers of the affected MLG sliding tubes. These
documents are distinct since they apply to different airplane models.
This proposed AD would also require the following service
information, which the Director of the Federal Register approved for
incorporation by reference as of August 1, 2019 (84 FR 30579, June 27,
2019).
<bullet> Airbus Service Bulletin A320-32-1441, Revision 01, dated
December 14, 2017.
<bullet> Messier-Dowty Service Bulletin 200-32-286, Revision 3,
dated October 3, 2008.
<bullet> Messier-Dowty Service Bulletin 201-32-43, Revision 3,
dated October 3, 2008.
<bullet> Safran Service Bulletin 200-32-321, Revision 2, dated
October 3, 2017.
<bullet> Safran Service Bulletin 201-32-68, Revision 2, dated
October 3, 2017.
This proposed AD would also require Airbus Service Bulletin A320-
32-1416, including Appendix 01, dated March 10, 2014, which the
Director of the Federal Register approved for incorporation by
reference as of February 22, 2017 (82 FR 5362, January 18, 2017).
This proposed AD would also require Airbus Service Bulletin A320-
32A1273, Revision 02, including Appendix 01, dated May 26, 2005, which
the Director of the Federal Register approved for incorporation by
reference as of June 29, 2007 (72 FR 29241, May 25, 2007).
This proposed AD would also require Airbus All Operators Telex
A320-32A1273, Revision 01, dated May 6, 2004, which the Director of the
Federal Register approved for incorporation by reference as of June 23,
2004 (69 FR 31867, June 8, 2004).
This service information is reasonably available because the
interested parties have access to it through their normal course of
business or by the means identified in the ADDRESSES section.
FAA's Determination
This product has been approved by the aviation authority of another
country, and is approved for operation in the United States. Pursuant
to the FAA's bilateral agreement with this State of Design Authority,
it has notified the FAA of the unsafe condition described in the MCAI
and service information referenced above. The FAA is issuing this NPRM
after determining that unsafe condition described previously is likely
to exist or develop on other products of the same type design.
Proposed AD Requirements in This NPRM
This proposed AD would retain all of the requirements of AD 2019-
12-07, except the repetitive inspection interval is extended. This
proposed AD would also require repetitive inspections of additional MLG
sliding tubes, replacement if necessary, and eventual replacement of
the additional MLG sliding tubes. This proposed AD would also prohibit
the installation of affected parts under certain conditions.
Costs of Compliance
The FAA estimates that this AD, if adopted as proposed, would
affect 1,525 airplanes of U.S. registry.
The FAA estimates the following costs to comply with this proposed
AD:
[[Page 50069]]
Estimated Costs for Required Actions
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Action Labor cost Parts cost Cost per product Cost on U.S. operators
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Retained actions from paragraph (g) 8 work-hours x $85 Up to $45,310............... Up to $45,990............... Up to $13,659,030.*
of AD 2019-12-07 (297 airplanes *). per hour = $680.
Retained actions from paragraphs 18 work-hours x $85 $0.......................... $1,530...................... $2,333,250.
(h) and (j) of AD 2019-12-07. per hour = $1,530.
Retained actions from paragraphs 13 work-hours x $85 Up to $3,920................ Up to $5,025................ Up to $7,663,125.
(o), (p), and (q) of AD 2019-12-07. per hour = $1,105.
New proposed actions (in paragraphs 9 work-hours x $85 Up to $3,920................ Up to $4,685................ Up to $7,144,625.
(o), (p), and (q) of this proposed per hour = $765.
AD).
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
* Operators should note that, although all U.S.-registered airplanes are subject to the retained requirements of paragraph (g) of this proposed AD,
there are only 297 possible affected MLG sliding tubes in the worldwide fleet. The FAA has no way of knowing how many affected MLG sliding tubes, if
any, are installed in U.S.-registered airplanes.
The FAA estimates the following costs to do any necessary on-
condition actions that would be required based on the results of any
required actions. The FAA has no way of determining the number of
aircraft that might need these on-condition actions:
Estimated Costs of On-Condition Actions
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Cost per
Labor cost Parts cost product
------------------------------------------------------------------------
7 work-hours x $85 per hour = $595.... $1,960 $2,555
------------------------------------------------------------------------
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.
The FAA is 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
The FAA has 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) Will not affect intrastate aviation in Alaska, 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.
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:
0
a. Removing Airworthiness Directive (AD) 2019-12-07, Amendment 39-19662
(84 FR 30579, June 27, 2019); and
0
b. Adding the following new AD:
Airbus SAS: Docket No. FAA-2023-1645; Project Identifier MCAI-2022-
01296-T.
(a) Comments Due Date
The FAA must receive comments on this airworthiness directive
(AD) by September 15, 2023.
(b) Affected ADs
This AD replaces AD 2019-12-07, Amendment 39-19662 (84 FR 30579,
June 27, 2019) (AD 2019-12-07).
(c) Applicability
This AD applies to Airbus SAS airplanes identified in paragraphs
(c)(1) through (4) of this AD, certificated in any category, all
manufacturer serial numbers (MSNs).
(1) Model A318-111, -112, -121, and -122 airplanes.
(2) Model A319-111, -112, -113, -114, -115, -131, -132, and -133
airplanes.
(3) Model A320-211, -212, -214, -216, -231, -232, and -233
airplanes.
(4) Model A321-111, -112, -131, -211, -212, -213, -231, and -232
airplanes.
(d) Subject
Air Transport Association (ATA) of America Code 32, Landing
gear.
(e) Reason
This AD was prompted by a determination that cracks were found
in the main landing gear (MLG) sliding tubes due to certain
manufacturing defects that might not be identified using the current
on-wing scheduled inspections. In addition, since AD 2019-12-07 was
issued, the FAA has determined that additional MLG sliding tubes are
affected by the unsafe condition. The FAA is issuing this AD to
address cracking in an MLG sliding tube, which could lead to failure
of an MLG sliding tube resulting in MLG collapse, damage to the
airplane, and injury to passengers.
(f) Compliance
Comply with this AD within the compliance times specified,
unless already done.
[[Page 50070]]
(g) Retained Replacement, With No Changes
This paragraph restates the requirements of paragraph (g) of AD
2019-12-07, with no changes. Within 41 months after June 29, 2007
(the effective date of AD 2007-11-11, Amendment 39-15068 (72 FR
29241, May 25, 2007) (AD 2007-11-11)), replace all MLG shock
absorbers equipped with MLG sliding tubes having serial numbers
listed in Airbus All Operators Telex (AOT) A320-32A1273, Revision
01, dated May 6, 2004; or the Accomplishment Instructions of Airbus
Service Bulletin A320-32A1273, Revision 02, including Appendix 01,
dated May 26, 2005; with new or serviceable MLG shock absorbers
equipped with MLG sliding tubes having serial numbers not listed in
Airbus AOT A320-32A1273, Revision 01, dated May 6, 2004; or the
Accomplishment Instructions of Airbus Service Bulletin A320-32A1273,
Revision 02, including Appendix 01, dated May 26, 2005; using a
method approved by the Manager, International Section, Transport
Standards Branch, FAA; or the European Aviation Safety Agency
(EASA); or Airbus SAS's EASA Design Organization Approval (DOA). If
approved by the DOA, the approval must include the DOA-authorized
signature. As of June 29, 2007, only Airbus Service Bulletin A320-
32A1273, Revision 02, including Appendix 01, dated May 26, 2005, may
be used to determine the affected MLG sliding tubes.
Note 1 to paragraph (g): Guidance on the replacement specified
in paragraph (g) of this AD can be found in Airbus A318/A319/A320/
A321 Aircraft Maintenance Manual Chapter 32-11-13, page block 401.
(h) Retained MLG Sliding Tube Part Number and Serial Number
Identification, With No Changes
This paragraph restates the requirements of paragraph (h) of AD
2019-12-07, with no changes. Within three months after February 22,
2017 (the effective date of AD 2017-01-11, Amendment 39-18778 (82 FR
5362, January 18, 2017) (AD 2017-01-11)): Do an inspection to
identify the part number and serial number of the MLG sliding tubes
installed on the airplane. A review of airplane maintenance records
is acceptable in lieu of this inspection if the part number and
serial number of the MLG sliding tubes can be conclusively
determined from that review.
(i) Retained Identification of Airplanes, With an Updated Reference
This paragraph restates the requirements of paragraph (i) of AD
2019-12-07, with an updated reference. An airplane with a MSN not
listed in figure 1 to paragraph (i) of this AD is not affected by
the requirements of paragraph (j) of this AD, provided it can be
determined that no MLG sliding tube having a part number and serial
number listed in figure 2 to paragraph (i) of this AD has been
installed on that airplane since first flight of the airplane.
BILLING CODE 4910-13-P
Figure 1 to Paragraph (i)--Affected Airplanes Listed by MSN
[GRAPHIC] [TIFF OMITTED] TP01AU23.041
[[Page 50071]]
Figure 2 to Paragraph (i)--Affected MLG Sliding Tubes
[GRAPHIC] [TIFF OMITTED] TP01AU23.042
[[Page 50072]]
[GRAPHIC] [TIFF OMITTED] TP01AU23.043
BILLING CODE 4910-13-C
[[Page 50073]]
(j) Retained Inspections, With an Updated Reference
This paragraph restates the inspections required by paragraph
(j) of AD 2019-12-07, with an updated reference. For each MLG
sliding tube identified as required by paragraph (h) of this AD,
having a part number and serial number listed in figure 2 to
paragraph (i) of this AD: Within 3 months after February 22, 2017
(the effective date of AD 2017-01-11) inspect affected MLG axles and
brake flanges by doing a detailed visual inspection of the chromium
plates for damage, and a Barkhausen noise inspection of the MLG
sliding tube axles for damage, in accordance with the Accomplishment
Instructions of Airbus Service Bulletin A320-32-1416, including
Appendix 01, dated March 10, 2014. For Model A318 series airplanes,
use the procedures specified for Model A319 series airplanes in
Airbus Service Bulletin A320-32-1416, including Appendix 01, dated
March 10, 2014.
(k) Retained Corrective Action for Paragraph (j) of This AD, With No
Changes
This paragraph restates the requirements of paragraph (k) of
2019-12-07, with no changes. If, during any inspection required by
paragraph (j) of this AD, any damage is detected: Before further
flight, replace the MLG sliding tube with a serviceable MLG sliding
tube, in accordance with the Accomplishment Instructions of Airbus
Service Bulletin A320-32-1416, including Appendix 01, dated March
10, 2014. For Model A318 series airplanes, use the procedures
specified for Model A319 series airplanes in Airbus Service Bulletin
A320-32-1416, including Appendix 01, dated March 10, 2014.
(l) Retained Definition for Serviceable MLG Sliding Tube, With Updated
References
This paragraph restates the definition for serviceable MLG
sliding tube specified in paragraph (l) of AD 2019-12-07, with
updated references. For the purpose of paragraph (k) of this AD, a
serviceable MLG sliding tube is defined as an MLG sliding tube that
meets the criterion in either paragraph (l)(1) or (2) of this AD.
(1) An MLG sliding tube having a part number and serial number
not listed in figure 2 to paragraph (i) of this AD.
(2) An MLG sliding tube having a part number and serial number
listed in figure 2 to paragraph (i) of this AD that has passed the
inspections required by paragraph (j) of this AD.
(m) Retained Parts Installation Prohibition, With Updated References
This paragraph restates the parts installation prohibition
specified in paragraph (m) of AD 2019-12-07, with updated
references.
(1) For airplanes that have an MLG sliding tube installed that
has a part number and serial number listed in figure 2 to paragraph
(i) of this AD: After an airplane is returned to service following
accomplishment of the actions required by paragraphs (h), (i), and
(j) of this AD, no person may install on any airplane an MLG sliding
tube having a part number and serial number listed in figure 2 to
paragraph (i) of this AD, unless that MLG sliding tube has passed
the inspection required by paragraph (j) of this AD.
(2) For airplanes that, as of February 22, 2017 (the effective
date of AD 2017-01-11), do not have an MLG sliding tube installed
that has a part number and serial number listed in figure 2 to
paragraph (i) of this AD: No person may install, on any airplane, an
MLG sliding tube having a part number and serial number listed in
figure 2 to paragraph (i) of this AD unless that MLG sliding tube
has passed the inspection required by paragraph (j) of this AD.
(n) Retained Definitions, With No Changes
This paragraph restates the definitions specified in paragraph
(n) of AD 2019-12-07, with no changes. For the purpose of paragraphs
(o), (p), (q), (r), and (s) of this AD, the following definitions
apply.
(1) Affected MLG shock absorber: An MLG shock absorber having a
part number and serial number as identified in Messier-Dowty Service
Bulletin 200-32-286, Revision 3, dated October 3, 2008, for Model
A318, A319, and A320 series airplanes; and Messier-Dowty Service
Bulletin 201-32-43, Revision 3, dated October 3, 2008, for Model
A321 series airplanes.
(2) Affected MLG sliding tube: An MLG sliding tube having a part
number and serial number as identified in Appendix B of Safran
Service Bulletin 200-32-321, Revision 2, dated October 3, 2017, for
Model A318, A319, and A320 series airplanes, or Safran Service
Bulletin 201-32-68, Revision 2, dated October 3, 2017, for Model
A321 series airplanes; except those parts that passed an inspection
as specified in Safran Service Bulletin 200-32-321 or Safran Service
Bulletin 201-32-68, as applicable; and those parts that, after that
inspection, have been repaired, using instructions approved by the
Manager, International Section, Transport Standards Branch, FAA; or
EASA; or Airbus SAS's EASA DOA. If approved by the DOA, the approval
must include the DOA-authorized signature.
Note 2 to paragraph (n)(2) of this AD: The affected MLG sliding
tubes identified in paragraph (n)(2) of this AD are referred to as
affected ``Batch 1'' MLG sliding tubes in EASA AD 2022-0204R1, dated
February 15, 2023; corrected February 17, 2023.
(3) Serviceable MLG sliding tube: An MLG sliding tube that is
not affected, or an affected MLG sliding tube, that has not exceeded
10,000 flight cycles since first installation on an airplane, or an
affected MLG sliding tube that, within the last 5,000 flight cycles
before installation on an airplane, passed an inspection specified
in Airbus Service Bulletin A320-32-1441.
(o) Retained Repetitive Inspections, With New Service Information and
Extended Inspection Interval
This paragraph restates the repetitive inspections required by
paragraph (o) of AD 2019-12-07, with new service information and
extended inspection interval. At the compliance time specified in
figure 3 to paragraph (o) of this AD, and thereafter at intervals
not to exceed 10,000 flight cycles: Do a detailed inspection of each
affected MLG sliding tube, in accordance with the Accomplishment
Instructions of Airbus Service Bulletin A320-32-1441, Revision 01,
dated December 14, 2017; or Airbus Service Bulletin A320-32-1441,
Revision 02, dated August 23, 2022. As of the effective date of this
AD, only use Airbus Service Bulletin A320-32-1441, Revision 02,
dated August 23, 2022, for the actions required by this paragraph.
Figure 3 to Paragraph (o)--Initial Compliance Time for MLG Sliding Tube
Inspection
[GRAPHIC] [TIFF OMITTED] TP01AU23.044
[[Page 50074]]
Note 3 to paragraph (o): If no reliable data regarding the
number of flight cycles accumulated by the MLG sliding tube are
available, operators may refer to the guidance specified in Chapter
5.2, ``Traceability,'' of Section 1, of Part 1 of the Airbus A318/
A319/A320/A321 Airworthiness Limitations Section.
(p) Retained Corrective Actions for Certain Inspections Required by
Paragraph (o) of This AD, With New Service Information
This paragraph restates the corrective actions required by
paragraph (p) of AD 2019-12-07 for certain inspections required by
paragraph (o) of this AD, with new service information. For
airplanes on which any inspection required by paragraph (o) of this
AD has been done before the effective date of this AD, comply with
paragraph (p)(1) or (2) of this AD, as applicable. For airplanes on
which any inspection required by paragraph (o) of this AD has been
done on or after the effective date of this AD, comply with
paragraph (y)(1) or (3) of this AD, as applicable.
(1) If any crack is detected on an MLG sliding tube, before
further flight, replace that MLG sliding tube with a serviceable MLG
sliding tube, in accordance with the Accomplishment Instructions of
Airbus Service Bulletin A320-32-1441, Revision 01, dated December
14, 2017; or Airbus Service Bulletin A320-32-1441, Revision 02,
dated August 23, 2022.
(2) Replacement of an MLG on an airplane with an MLG having a
serviceable MLG sliding tube installed is an acceptable method to
comply with the requirements of paragraph (p)(1) of this AD for that
airplane.
(q) Retained Part Replacement, With New Reference to New Parts
Installation Limitation
This paragraph restates the parts replacement required by
paragraph (q) of AD 2019-12-07, with new reference to new parts
installation limitation.
(1) Within 10 years after August 1, 2019 (the effective date of
AD 2019-12-07), replace each affected MLG sliding tube with an MLG
sliding tube that is not affected. Installation of an MLG sliding
tube that is not affected on an airplane constitutes terminating
action for the repetitive inspections required by paragraph (o) of
this AD for that airplane. As of the effective date of this AD,
operators also must comply with the parts installation limitation
specified in paragraph (aa) of this AD.
(2) Replacement of an MLG on an airplane with an MLG that does
not have an affected MLG sliding tube installed is an acceptable
method to comply with the requirements of paragraph (q)(1) of this
AD for that airplane. As of the effective date of this AD, operators
also must comply with the parts installation limitation specified in
paragraph (aa) of this AD.
(r) Retained Parts Installation Limitation, With a New Exception to
Paragraph (r)(1) of This AD
This paragraph restates the parts installation limitation
specified in paragraph (r) of AD 2019-12-07, with a new exception to
paragraph (r)(1) of this AD.
(1) As of August 1, 2019 (the effective date of AD 2019-12-07)
and before the effective date of this AD, no person may install on
any airplane an affected MLG shock absorber assembly containing a
discrepant MLG sliding tube part number. As of the effective date of
this AD, comply with the parts installation limitation specified in
paragraph (aa)(1) of this AD.
(2) Do not install an affected MLG sliding tube on any airplane
as specified in paragraph (r)(2)(i) or (ii) of this AD, as
applicable.
(i) For an airplane with an affected MLG sliding tube installed
as of August 1, 2019 (the effective date of AD 2019-12-07): After
replacement of each affected MLG sliding tube as required by
paragraph (q) of this AD.
(ii) For an airplane that does not have an affected MLG sliding
tube installed as of August 1, 2019 (the effective date of AD 2019-
12-07): As of August 1, 2019.
(s) Retained Identification of Airplanes Not Affected by Certain
Requirements of This AD, With No Changes
This paragraph restates the airplanes not affected provision
specified in paragraph (s) of AD 2019-12-07, with no changes. An
airplane on which Airbus Modification 161202 or Modification 161346
has been installed in production is not affected by the requirements
of paragraphs (g), (h), (j), (o), and (q) of this AD, provided it
has been verified that no affected MLG sliding tube is installed on
that airplane.
(t) Retained Credit for Previous Actions, With No Changes
This paragraph restates the credit for previous actions
specified in paragraph (t) of AD 2019-12-07, with no changes.
(1) This paragraph provides credit for the actions required by
paragraph (g) of this AD, if those actions were performed before
June 29, 2007 (the effective date of AD 2007-11-11), using Airbus
AOT A320-32A1273, Revision 01, dated May 6, 2004. This document was
incorporated by reference in AD 2004-11-13, Amendment 39-13659 (69
FR 31867, June 8, 2004).
(2) This paragraph provides credit for the initial inspection
and applicable corrective actions required by paragraphs (o) and (p)
of this AD if those actions were performed before August 1, 2019
(the effective date of AD 2019-12-07), using the Accomplishment
Instructions in Airbus Service Bulletin A320-32-1441, dated December
28, 2016.
(u) Retained Service Information Exception, With No Changes
This paragraph restates the service information exception
specified in paragraph (u) of AD 2019-12-07, with no changes. The
service information specified in paragraph (g) of this AD has
instructions to send any cracked part to Messier-Dowty. This AD does
not include such a requirement.
(v) Retained No Reporting Requirement, With New Service Information
This paragraph restates the no reporting requirement provision
specified in paragraph (v) of AD 2019-12-07, with new service
information. Although Airbus Service Bulletin A320-32-1441, Revision
01, dated December 14, 2017; and Airbus Service Bulletin A320-32-
1441, Revision 02, dated August 23, 2022; specify to submit certain
information to the manufacturer, and specify that action as ``RC''
(required for compliance), this AD does not include that
requirement.
(w) New Definitions for New Requirements of This AD
For the purpose of paragraphs (x), (y), (z), (aa), and (bb) of
this AD, the following definitions apply.
(1) Affected MLG sliding tube: An MLG sliding tube having a part
number identified in Safran Service Bulletin 200-32-321, Revision 4,
dated November 3, 2021, for Model A318, A319, and A320 series
airplanes, or Safran Service Bulletin 201-32-68, Revision 4, dated
November 3, 2021, for Model A321 series airplanes; except those
having a serial number identified in Appendix B of Safran Service
Bulletin 200-32-321, Revision 2, dated October 3, 2017, for Model
A318, A319, and A320 series airplanes, or Safran Service Bulletin
201-32-68, Revision 2, dated October 3, 2017, for Model A321 series
airplanes; and except those parts that passed an inspection as
specified in Safran Service Bulletin 200-32-321 or Safran Service
Bulletin 201-32-68, as applicable; and those parts that, after that
inspection, have been repaired, using instructions approved by the
Manager, International Section, Transport Standards Branch, FAA; or
EASA; or Airbus SAS's EASA DOA. If approved by the DOA, the approval
must include the DOA-authorized signature.
Note 4 to paragraph (w)(1) of this AD: The affected MLG sliding
tubes identified in paragraph (w)(1) of this AD are referred to as
affected ``Batch 2'' MLG sliding tubes in EASA AD 2022-0204R1, dated
February 15, 2023; corrected February 17, 2023.
(2) Serviceable MLG sliding tube: Any MLG sliding tube other
than those identified in paragraphs (w)(2)(i) thru (iii) of this AD.
(i) Any MLG sliding tube having a part number and serial number
listed in figure 2 to paragraph (i) of this AD.
(ii) Any affected MLG sliding tube identified in paragraph
(n)(2) of this AD.
(iii) Any affected MLG sliding tube identified in paragraph
(w)(1) of this AD.
(x) New Inspections for Additional Affected MLG Sliding Tubes
At the compliance time specified in figure 4 to paragraph (x) of
this AD, and thereafter at intervals not to exceed 10,000 flight
cycles: Do a detailed inspection of each affected MLG sliding tube,
as defined in paragraph (w)(1) of this AD, in accordance with the
Accomplishment Instructions of Airbus Service Bulletin A320-32-1441,
Revision 02, dated August 23, 2022.
Figure 4 to Paragraph (x)--Initial Compliance Time for MLG Sliding Tube
Inspection
[[Page 50075]]
[GRAPHIC] [TIFF OMITTED] TP01AU23.045
Note 5 to paragraph (x): If no reliable data regarding the
number of flight cycles accumulated by the MLG sliding tube are
available, operators may refer to the guidance specified in Chapter
5.2, ``Traceability,'' of Section 1, of Part 1 of the Airbus A318/
A319/A320/A321 Airworthiness Limitations Section.
(y) New Corrective Actions
(1) For airplanes on which any inspection required by paragraph
(o) of this AD has been done on or after the effective date of this
AD: If any crack is detected on an MLG sliding tube, before further
flight, replace that MLG sliding tube with a serviceable MLG sliding
tube, as defined in paragraph (w)(2) of this AD, in accordance with
the Accomplishment Instructions of Airbus Service Bulletin A320-32-
1441, Revision 02, dated August 23, 2022.
(2) If, during any inspection required by paragraph (x) of this
AD, any crack is detected on an MLG sliding tube: Before further
flight, replace that MLG sliding tube with a serviceable MLG sliding
tube, as defined in paragraph (w)(2) of this AD, in accordance with
the Accomplishment Instructions of Airbus Service Bulletin A320-32-
1441, Revision 02, dated August 23, 2022.
(3) Replacement of an MLG on an airplane with an MLG having a
serviceable MLG sliding tube, as defined in paragraph (w)(2) of this
AD, installed is an acceptable method to comply with the
requirements of paragraph (y)(1) or (2) of this AD for that
airplane.
(z) New Replacement for Additional Affected Parts
(1) Within 10 years after the effective date of this AD, replace
each affected MLG sliding tube, as defined in paragraph (w)(1) of
this AD, with a serviceable MLG sliding tube, as defined in
paragraph (w)(2) of this AD. Replacement on an airplane of all
affected MLG sliding tubes with serviceable MLG sliding tubes
constitutes terminating action for the repetitive inspections
required by paragraph (x) of this AD for that airplane.
(2) Replacement of an MLG on an airplane with an MLG that has a
serviceable MLG sliding tube, as defined in paragraph (w)(2) of this
AD, installed is an acceptable method to comply with the requirement
of paragraph (z)(1) of this AD for that airplane.
(aa) New Parts Installation Limitation
(1) As of the effective date of this AD, no person may install
on any airplane an MLG shock absorber assembly that contains any MLG
sliding tube identified in paragraphs (aa)(i) through (iii) of this
AD.
(i) Any MLG sliding tube having a part number and serial number
listed in figure 2 to paragraph (i) of this AD.
(ii) Any affected MLG sliding tube identified in paragraph
(n)(2) of this AD.
(iii) Any affected MLG sliding tube identified in paragraph
(w)(1) of this AD.
(2) Do not install an affected MLG sliding tube identified in
paragraph (w)(1) of this AD on any airplane as specified in
paragraph (aa)(2)(i) or (ii) of this AD, as applicable.
(i) For an airplane with an affected MLG sliding tube installed
as of the effective date of this AD: After replacement of each
affected MLG sliding tube as required by paragraph (z) of this AD.
(ii) For an airplane that does not have an affected MLG sliding
tube installed as of the effective date of this AD: As of the
effective date of this AD.
(bb) New Identification of Airplanes Not Affected by Certain
Requirements of This AD
An airplane on which Airbus Modification 161202 or Modification
161346 has been installed in production is not affected by the
requirements for affected MLG sliding tubes in paragraph (x) of this
AD and the requirement of paragraph (z) of this AD, provided it has
been verified that no affected MLG sliding tube, as defined in
paragraph (w)(2) of this AD, is installed on that airplane.
(cc) No Reporting Requirement for New Actions
Although Airbus Service Bulletin A320-32-1441, Revision 01,
dated December 14, 2017; and Airbus Service Bulletin A320-32-1441,
Revision 02, dated August 23, 2022; specify to submit certain
information to the manufacturer, and specify that action as ``RC''
(required for compliance), this AD does not include that
requirement.
(dd) Additional AD Provisions
(1) Alternative Methods of Compliance (AMOCs): The Manager,
International Validation Branch, 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 responsible Flight Standards Office, as
appropriate. If sending information directly to the manager of the
International Validation Branch, mail it to the address identified
in paragraph (ee)(2) of this AD or email to: <a href="/cdn-cgi/l/email-protection#dce5f19d8a8ff19d958ef1ebefecf19d91939f9cbabdbdf2bbb3aa"><span class="__cf_email__" data-cfemail="695044283f3a4428203b445e5a59442824262a290f0808470e061f">[email protected]</span></a>. If mailing information, also submit information by
email.
(i) Before using any approved AMOC, notify your appropriate
principal inspector, or lacking a principal inspector, the manager
of the responsible Flight Standards Office.
(ii) AMOCs approved for AD 2019-12-07 are approved as AMOCs for
the corresponding provisions of this AD.
(2) Contacting the Manufacturer: For any requirement in this AD
to obtain instructions from a manufacturer, the instructions must be
accomplished using a method approved by the Manager, International
Validation Branch, FAA; or the European Union Aviation Safety Agency
(EASA); or Airbus SAS's EASA DOA. If approved by the DOA, the
approval must include the DOA-authorized signature.
(3) Required for Compliance (RC): Except as required by
paragraphs (u), (v), and (dd)(2) of this AD, if any service
information contains procedures or tests that are identified as RC,
those procedures and tests must be done to comply with this AD; any
procedures or tests that are not identified as RC are recommended.
Those procedures and tests that are not identified as RC may be
deviated from using accepted methods in accordance with the
operator's maintenance or inspection program without obtaining
approval of an AMOC, provided the procedures and tests identified as
RC can be done and the airplane can be put back in an airworthy
condition. Any substitutions or changes to procedures or tests
identified as RC require approval of an AMOC.
(ee) Additional Information
(1) Refer to EASA AD 2022-0204R1, dated February 15, 2023;
corrected February 17, 2023; for related information. This EASA AD
may be found in the AD docket at <a href="http://regulations.gov">regulations.gov</a> under Docket No.
FAA-2023-1645.
(2) For more information about this AD, contact Timothy Dowling,
Aviation Safety Engineer, FAA, 1600 Stewart Avenue, Suite 410,
Westbury, NY 11590; phone: 206-231-3667; email:
<a href="/cdn-cgi/l/email-protection#d783bebab8a3bfaef987f993b8a0bbbeb9b097b1b6b6f9b0b8a1"><span class="__cf_email__" data-cfemail="aefac7c3c1dac6d780fe80eac1d9c2c7c0c9eec8cfcf80c9c1d8">[email protected]</span></a>.
(3) Service information identified in this AD that is not
incorporated by reference is available at the addresses specified in
paragraphs (ff)(8) and (10) of this AD.
(ff) 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 this AD specifies otherwise.
[[Page 50076]]
(3) The following service information was approved for IBR on
[DATE 35 DAYS AFTER PUBLICATION OF THE FINAL RULE].
(i) Airbus Service Bulletin A320-32-1441, Revision 02, dated
August 23, 2022.
(ii) Safran Service Bulletin 200-32-321, Revision 4, dated
November 3, 2021.
(iii) Safran Service Bulletin 201-32-68, Revision 4, dated
November 3, 2021.
(4) The following service information was approved for IBR on
August 1, 2019 (84 FR 30579, June 27, 2019).
(i) Airbus Service Bulletin A320-32-1441, Revision 01, dated
December 14, 2017.
(ii) Messier-Dowty Service Bulletin 200-32-286, Revision 3,
dated October 3, 2008.
(iii) Messier-Dowty Service Bulletin 201-32-43, Revision 3,
dated October 3, 2008.
(iv) Safran Service Bulletin 200-32-321, Revision 2, dated
October 3, 2017.
(v) Safran Service Bulletin 201-32-68, Revision 2, dated October
3, 2017.
(5) The following service information was approved for IBR on
February 22, 2017 (82 FR 5362, January 18, 2017).
(i) Airbus Service Bulletin A320-32-1416, including Appendix 01,
dated March 10, 2014.
(ii) [Reserved]
(6) The following service information was approved for IBR on
June 29, 2007 (72 FR 29241, May 25, 2007).
(i) Airbus Service Bulletin A320-32A1273, Revision 02, including
Appendix 01, dated May 26, 2005.
(ii) [Reserved]
(7) The following service information was approved for IBR on
June 23, 2004 (69 FR 31867, June 8, 2004).
(i) Airbus All Operators Telex A320-32A1273, Revision 01, dated
May 6, 2004.
(ii) [Reserved]
(8) For Airbus service information identified in this AD,
contact Airbus SAS, Airworthiness Office--EIAS, Rond-Point Emile
Dewoitine No: 2, 31700 Blagnac Cedex, France; telephone +33 5 61 93
36 96; fax +33 5 61 93 44 51; email <a href="/cdn-cgi/l/email-protection#8deceeeee2f8e3f9a3ece4fffae2fff9e5a0e8ecfecdb1ecade5ffe8ebb0" http: airbus.com">airbus.com</a>">account.airworth-eas@<a href="http://airbus.com">airbus.com</a></a>;
website <a href="http://airbus.com">airbus.com</a>.
(9) For Safran and Messier-Dowty service information identified
in this AD, contact Safran Landing Systems, One Carbon Way, Walton,
KY 41094; telephone (859) 525-8583; fax (859) 485-8827; internet
<a href="http://www.safran-landing-systems.com">www.safran-landing-systems.com</a>.
(10) You may view this service information at the FAA,
Airworthiness Products Section, Operational Safety Branch, 2200
South 216th St., Des Moines, WA. For information on the availability
of this material at the FAA, call 206-231-3195.
(11) 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, email <a href="/cdn-cgi/l/email-protection#d6b0a4f8bfb8a5a6b3b5a2bfb9b896b8b7a4b7f8b1b9a0"><span class="__cf_email__" data-cfemail="fb9d89d59295888b9e988f929495bb959a899ad59c948d">[email protected]</span></a>, or go to: <a href="http://www.archives.gov/federal-register/cfr/ibr-locations.html">www.archives.gov/federal-register/cfr/ibr-locations.html</a>.
Issued on July 25, 2023.
Victor Wicklund,
Deputy Director, Compliance & Airworthiness Division, Aircraft
Certification Service.
[FR Doc. 2023-16189 Filed 7-31-23; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE 4910-13-P
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This is legal information, not legal advice. Laws vary by jurisdiction and change frequently. Always verify current law with official sources and consult a licensed attorney in your jurisdiction for advice on your specific situation.