Rule2024-03080
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
February 15, 2024
Effective
March 21, 2024
Issuing agencies
Transportation DepartmentFederal Aviation Administration
Abstract
The FAA is superseding Airworthiness Directive (AD) 2019-16- 11, which applied to certain Airbus SAS Model A300 F4-605R and FR-622R airplanes. AD 2019-16-11 required repetitive high frequency eddy current (HFEC) inspections of the aft lower deck cargo door (LDCD) frame forks; a one-time check of the LDCD clearances; a one-time detailed visual inspection of hooks, eccentric bushes, and x-stops; and corrective actions if necessary. This AD was prompted by a determination that the threshold for the (repetitive) HFEC inspection needs to be corrected, and the LDCD frame forks modified. This AD continues to require the actions in AD 2019-16-11, requires correcting the HFEC inspection threshold and modifying the LDCD frame forks, and prohibits the installation of affected LDCDs under certain conditions; as specified in a European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) AD, which is incorporated by reference. The FAA is issuing this AD to address the unsafe condition on these products.
Full Text
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<title>Federal Register, Volume 89 Issue 32 (Thursday, February 15, 2024)</title>
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[Federal Register Volume 89, Number 32 (Thursday, February 15, 2024)]
[Rules and Regulations]
[Pages 11720-11722]
From the Federal Register Online via the Government Publishing Office [<a href="http://www.gpo.gov">www.gpo.gov</a>]
[FR Doc No: 2024-03080]
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DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION
Federal Aviation Administration
14 CFR Part 39
[Docket No. FAA-2023-2136; Project Identifier MCAI-2023-00759-T;
Amendment 39-22659; AD 2024-01-08]
RIN 2120-AA64
Airworthiness Directives; Airbus SAS Airplanes
AGENCY: Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), DOT.
ACTION: Final rule.
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SUMMARY: The FAA is superseding Airworthiness Directive (AD) 2019-16-
11, which applied to certain Airbus SAS Model A300 F4-605R and FR-622R
airplanes. AD 2019-16-11 required repetitive high frequency eddy
current (HFEC) inspections of the aft lower deck cargo door (LDCD)
frame forks; a one-time check of the LDCD clearances; a one-time
detailed visual inspection of hooks, eccentric bushes, and x-stops; and
corrective actions if necessary. This AD was prompted by a
determination that the threshold for the (repetitive) HFEC inspection
needs to be corrected, and the LDCD frame forks modified. This AD
continues to require the actions in AD 2019-16-11, requires correcting
the HFEC inspection threshold and modifying the LDCD frame forks, and
prohibits the installation of affected LDCDs under certain conditions;
as specified in a European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) AD,
which is incorporated by reference. The FAA is issuing this AD to
address the unsafe condition on these products.
DATES: This AD is effective March 21, 2024.
The Director of the Federal Register approved the incorporation by
reference of a certain publication listed in this AD as of March 21,
2024.
ADDRESSES:
AD Docket: You may examine the AD docket at <a href="http://regulations.gov">regulations.gov</a> under
Docket No. FAA-2023-2136; 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 final rule, the mandatory continuing airworthiness
information (MCAI), any comments received, and other information. The
address for Docket Operations is U.S. Department of Transportation,
Docket Operations, M-30, West Building Ground Floor, Room W12-140, 1200
New Jersey Avenue SE, Washington, DC 20590.
Material Incorporated by Reference:
<bullet> For EASA material identified in this final rule, contact
EASA, Konrad-Adenauer-Ufer 3, 50668 Cologne, Germany; telephone +49 221
8999 000; email <a href="/cdn-cgi/l/email-protection#c68782b586a3a7b5a7e8a3b3b4a9b6a7e8a3b3"><span class="__cf_email__" data-cfemail="e3a2a790a386829082cd8696918c9382cd8696">[email protected]</span></a>; website easa.europa.eu. You may
find this material on the EASA website ad.easa.europa.eu.
<bullet> You may view this material at the FAA, Airworthiness
Products Section, Operational Safety Branch, 2200 South 216th Street,
Des Moines, WA. For information on the availability of this material at
the FAA, call 206-231-3195. It is also available in the AD docket at
<a href="http://regulations.gov">regulations.gov</a> under Docket No. FAA-2023-2136.
FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Dan Rodina, Aviation Safety Engineer,
FAA, 1600 Stewart Avenue, Suite 410, Westbury, NY 11590; telephone 206-
231-3225; email <a href="/cdn-cgi/l/email-protection#dbbfbab5f5a9b4bfb2b5ba9bbdbabaf5bcb4ad"><span class="__cf_email__" data-cfemail="0367626d2d716c676a6d62436562622d646c75">[email protected]</span></a>.
SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION:
[[Page 11721]]
Background
The FAA issued a notice of proposed rulemaking (NPRM) to amend 14
CFR part 39 to supersede AD 2019-16-11, Amendment 39-19714 (84 FR
45061, August 28, 2019) (AD 2019-16-11). AD 2019-16-11 applied to
certain Airbus SAS Model A300 F4-605R and F4-622R airplanes. AD 2019-
16-11 required repetitive HFEC inspections of the aft LDCD frame forks;
a one-time check of the LDCD clearances; a one-time detailed visual
inspection of hooks, eccentric bushes, and x-stops; and corrective
actions if necessary. The FAA issued AD 2019-16-11 to address cracked
or ruptured aft LDCD frames, which could allow loads to be transferred
to the remaining structural elements. This condition could lead to the
rupture of one or more vertical aft LDCD frames, which could result in
reduced structural integrity of the aft LDCD.
The NPRM published in the Federal Register on October 31, 2023 (88
FR 74369). The NPRM was prompted by AD 2023-0117, dated June 13, 2023,
issued by EASA, which is the Technical Agent for the Member States of
the European Union (EASA AD 2023-0117) (also referred to as the MCAI).
The MCAI states that based on more detailed stress analyses, it has
been determined that the threshold for the (repetitive) HFEC inspection
could be extended from 12,500 flight hours to 26,455 flight hours for
those affected parts installed on an LDCD that has been modified or
replaced. It was also determined that an incorrect HFEC inspection
threshold had been defined for the affected parts that have not been
modified or replaced. Additional widespread fatigue damage analysis
determined that all frame forks of affected LDCDs are susceptible to
crack development, which compromises the structural integrity of the
LDCD and therefore of the airplane.
In the NPRM, the FAA proposed to continue to require the actions in
AD 2019-16-11 and require correcting the HFEC inspection threshold,
modifying the LDCD frame forks, and prohibit the installation of
affected LDCDs under certain conditions, as specified in EASA AD 2023-
0117. The FAA is issuing this AD to address the unsafe condition on
these products.
You may examine the MCAI in the AD docket at <a href="http://regulations.gov">regulations.gov</a> under
Docket No. FAA-2023-2136.
Discussion of Final Airworthiness Directive
Comments
The FAA received comments from FedEx Express and the Air Line
Pilots Association, International (ALPA), who supported the NPRM
without change.
Conclusion
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
referenced above. The FAA reviewed the relevant data, considered the
comments received, and determined that air safety requires adopting
this AD as proposed. Accordingly, the FAA is issuing this AD to address
the unsafe condition on this product. Except for minor editorial
changes, this AD is adopted as proposed in the NPRM. None of the
changes will increase the economic burden on any operator.
Related Service Information Under 1 CFR Part 51
EASA AD 2023-0117 specifies procedures for repetitive HFEC
inspections for cracks of the aft LDCD frame forks; a one-time check of
the LDCD clearances; a one-time detailed visual inspection for signs of
wear on the hooks, eccentric bushes, and x-stops; and corrective
actions if necessary. In addition, EASA AD 2023-0117 specifies
procedures for modifying frame forks that have not been reinforced.
EASA AD 2023-0117 also prohibits the installation of affected LDCDs
under certain conditions.
This material 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.
Costs of Compliance
The FAA estimates that this AD affects 58 airplanes of U.S.
registry. The FAA estimates the following costs to comply with this AD:
Estimated Costs for Required Actions
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Cost on U.S.
Action Labor cost Parts cost Cost per product operators
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Retained actions from AD 2019-16- 15 work-hours x $85 $0 $1,275............. $73,950.
11. per hour = $1,275.
New actions...................... Up to 38 work-hours 850 Up to $4,080....... Up to $236,640.
x $85 per hour =
$3,230.
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The FAA has received no definitive data on which to base the cost
estimates for certain on-condition repairs specified in this AD.
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
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) 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.
[[Page 11722]]
List of Subjects in 14 CFR Part 39
Air transportation, Aircraft, Aviation safety, Incorporation by
reference, Safety.
The Amendment
Accordingly, under the authority delegated to me by the
Administrator, the FAA amends 14 CFR part 39 as follows:
PART 39--AIRWORTHINESS DIRECTIVES
0
1. The authority citation for part 39 continues to read as follows:
Authority: 49 U.S.C. 106(g), 40113, 44701.
Sec. 39.13 [Amended]
0
2. The FAA amends Sec. 39.13 by:
0
a. Removing Airworthiness Directive 2019-16-11, Amendment 39-19714 (84
FR 45061, August 28, 2019); and
0
b. Adding the following new Airworthiness Directive:
2024-01-08 Airbus SAS: Amendment 39-22659; Docket No. FAA-2023-2136;
Project Identifier MCAI-2023-00759-T.
(a) Effective Date
This airworthiness directive (AD) is effective March 21, 2024.
(b) Affected ADs
This AD replaces AD 2019-16-11, Amendment 39-19714 (84 FR 45061,
August 28, 2019) (AD 2019-16-11).
(c) Applicability
This AD applies to Airbus SAS Model A300 F4-605R and F4-622R
airplanes, certificated in any category, as identified in European
Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) AD 2023-0117, dated June 13,
2023 (EASA AD 2023-0117).
(d) Subject
Air Transport Association (ATA) of America Code: 52, Doors.
(e) Unsafe Condition
This AD was prompted by a report of two adjacent frame forks
that were found cracked on the aft lower deck cargo door (LDCD) of
two airplanes during scheduled maintenance, and a determination that
certain compliance times need to be revised. The FAA is also issuing
this AD to address the susceptibility of the frame forks of affected
LDCDs to develop cracks, which could lead to additional rupture of
one or more LDCD frame forks, compromising the structural integrity
of the LDCD and therefore of the airplane.
(f) Compliance
Comply with this AD within the compliance times specified,
unless already done.
(g) Requirements
Except as specified in paragraph (h) of this AD: Comply with all
required actions and compliance times specified in, and in
accordance with, EASA AD 2023-0117.
(h) Exceptions to EASA AD 2023-0117
(1) Where EASA AD 2023-0117 refers to its effective date, this
AD requires using the effective date of this AD.
(2) Where Table 2 of EASA AD 2023-0117 refers to the effective
date of EASA AD 2015-0152R1, dated May 23, 2017, this AD requires
using November 5, 2018 (the effective date of AD 2018-20-06,
Amendment 39-19440 (83 FR 49265, October 1, 2018)).
(3) Where Table 2 of EASA AD 2023-0117 refers to the effective
date of EASA AD 2015-0152, dated July 24, 2015, this AD requires
using January 26, 2017 (the effective date of AD 2016-25-03,
Amendment 39-18729 (81 FR 93801, December 22, 2016)).
(4) Where paragraph (6) of EASA AD 2023-0117 uses the phrase
``before next flight, contact Airbus for approved corrective action
instructions, and within the compliance time specified therein,
accomplish those instructions accordingly,'' this AD requires
replacing those words with ``repair cracking before further flight
using a method approved by the Manager, International Validation
Branch, FAA; or EASA; or Airbus SAS's EASA Design Organization
Approval (DOA). If approved by the DOA, the approval must include
the DOA-authorized signature.''
(5) This AD does not adopt the ``Remarks'' section of EASA AD
2023-0117.
(i) No Reporting Requirement
Although the service information referenced in EASA AD 2023-0117
specifies to submit certain information to the manufacturer, this AD
does not include that requirement.
(j) Additional AD Provisions
The following provisions also apply to this AD:
(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 International
Validation Branch, send it to the attention of the person identified
in paragraph (k) of this AD. Information may be emailed to: <a href="/cdn-cgi/l/email-protection#390014786f6a1478706b140e0a09147874767a795f5858175e564f"><span class="__cf_email__" data-cfemail="c7feea869194ea868e95eaf0f4f7ea868a888487a1a6a6e9a0a8b1">[email protected]</span></a>. Before using any approved AMOC, notify your
appropriate principal inspector, or lacking a principal inspector,
the manager of the responsible Flight Standards Office.
(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 EASA; or Airbus SAS's EASA Design
Organization Approval (DOA). If approved by the DOA, the approval
must include the DOA-authorized signature.
(3) Required for Compliance (RC): Except as required by
paragraphs (h)(4) and (j)(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.
(k) Additional Information
For more information about this AD, contact Dan Rodina, Aviation
Safety Engineer, FAA, 1600 Stewart Avenue, Suite 410, Westbury, NY
11590; telephone 206-231-3225; email <a href="/cdn-cgi/l/email-protection#c9ada8a7e7bba6ada0a7a889afa8a8e7aea6bf"><span class="__cf_email__" data-cfemail="88ece9e6a6fae7ece1e6e9c8eee9e9a6efe7fe">[email protected]</span></a>.
(l) 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.
(i) European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) AD 2023-0117,
dated June 13, 2023.
(ii) [Reserved]
(3) For EASA AD 2023-0117, contact EASA, Konrad-Adenauer-Ufer 3,
50668 Cologne, Germany; telephone +49 221 8999 000; email
<a href="/cdn-cgi/l/email-protection#79383d0a391c180a18571c0c0b160918571c0c"><span class="__cf_email__" data-cfemail="3a7b7e497a5f5b495b145f4f48554a5b145f4f">[email protected]</span></a>; website easa.europa.eu. You may find this EASA
AD on the EASA website ad.easa.europa.eu.
(4) You may view this service information at the FAA,
Airworthiness Products Section, Operational Safety Branch, 2200
South 216th Street, Des Moines, WA. For information on the
availability of this material at the FAA, call 206-231-3195.
(5) You may view this material at the National Archives and
Records Administration (NARA). For information on the availability
of this material at NARA, visit <a href="http://www.archives.gov/federal-register/cfr/ibr-locations">www.archives.gov/federal-register/cfr/ibr-locations</a>, or email <a href="/cdn-cgi/l/email-protection#365044185f5845465355425f5958765857445718515940"><span class="__cf_email__" data-cfemail="8ceafea2e5e2fffce9eff8e5e3e2cce2edfeeda2ebe3fa">[email protected]</span></a>.
Issued on January 9, 2024.
Caitlin Locke,
Director, Compliance & Airworthiness Division, Aircraft Certification
Service.
[FR Doc. 2024-03080 Filed 2-14-24; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE 4910-13-P
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