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Docket ID: [Docket No. FAA-2006-26710; Directorate Identifier 2006-NM-147-AD; Amendment 39-15517; AD 2008-10-11]
RIN ID: RIN 2120-AA64
SUBJECT CATEGORY: Airworthiness Directives; Boeing Model 757 Airplanes
The Director of the Federal Register approved the incorporation by reference of a certain publication listed in the AD as of June 12, 2008.
DOCUMENT SUMMARY: The FAA is adopting a new airworthiness directive (AD) for all Boeing Model 757 airplanes. This AD requires revising the Airworthiness Limitations (AWLs) section of the Instructions for Continued Airworthiness by incorporating new limitations for fuel tank systems to satisfy Special Federal Aviation Regulation No. 88 requirements. This AD also requires the initial inspection of certain repetitive AWL inspections to phasein those inspections, and repair if necessary. This AD results from a design review of the fuel tank systems. We are issuing this AD to prevent the potential for ignition sources inside fuel tanks caused by latent failures, alterations, repairs, or maintenance actions, which, in combination with flammable fuel vapors, could result in a fuel tank explosion and consequent loss of the airplane.
SUMMARY: Boeing Model 757 Airplanes,
The FAA issued a supplemental notice of proposed rulemaking (NPRM) to amend 14 CFR part 39 to include an AD that would apply to all Boeing Model 757 airplanes. That supplemental NPRM was published in the Federal Register on August 1, 2007 (72 FR 41963). That supplemental NPRM proposed to require revising the Airworthiness Limitations (AWLs) section of the Instructions for Continued Airworthiness (ICA) by incorporating new limitations for fuel tank systems to satisfy Special Federal Aviation Regulation No. 88 requirements. That supplemental NPRM also proposed to require the initial inspection of certain repetitive inspections specified in the AWLs to phasein those inspections, and repair if necessary. That supplemental NPRM also proposed to revise the original NPRM by aligning the compliance time for revising the AWLs section with the compliance date of the special maintenance program requirements, updating the listing of applicable airplane maintenance manuals in Appendix 1, and clarifying certain actions.
Since we issued the supplemental NPRM, Boeing has issued Temporary Revision (TR) 09008, dated March 2008. Boeing TR 09008 is published as Section 9 of the Boeing 757 Maintenance Planning Document (MPD) Document, D622N0019, Revision March 2008 (hereafter referred to as ``Revision March 2008 of the MPD''). The supplemental NPRM referred to Revision March 2006 of the MPD as the appropriate source of service information for accomplishing the proposed actions. Revision March 2008 of the MPD, among other actions, includes the following changes:
Accordingly, we have revised paragraphs (f), (g), and (h) of this AD to refer to Revision March 2008 of the MPD. We also have added a new paragraph (j) to this AD specifying that actions done before the effective date of this AD in accordance with Revisions March 2006 through November 2007 of the MPD are acceptable for compliance with the corresponding requirements of paragraphs (g) and (h) of this AD.
We also have removed reference to 36,000 total flight cycles from Table 1 of this AD and revised the initial threshold for accomplishing AWLs No. 28AWL01, No. 28AWL03, and No. 28AWL14 to within 120 months since the date of issuance of the original standard airworthiness certificate or the date of issuance of the original export certificate of airworthiness.
Operators should note that we have revised paragraph (g) of this AD to require incorporating only AWLs No. 28AWL01 through No. 28AWL24 inclusive. AWL No. 28AWL25 was added in Revision October 2006 of the MPD, and AWL No. 28AWL26 was added in Revision January 2007 of the MPD. However, as an optional action, operators may incorporate those AWLs as specified in paragraph (g) of this AD.
We have issued a separate NPRM (Docket No. FAA200728598) that, in part, proposes to incorporate AWLs No. 28AWL20 and No. 28AWL26 into the AWLs section of the ICA. That NPRM was published in the Federal Register on July 9, 2007 (72 FR 37132). We have also issued AD 200806 03, amendment 3915415 (73 FR 13081, March 12, 2008) that, in part, requires revising the AWLs section of the ICA to incorporate AWLs No. 28AWL23, No. 28AWL24, and No. 28AWL25. Therefore, we have added a new paragraph (k) to this AD specifying that incorporating AWLs No. 28 AWL23, No. 28AWL24, and No. 28AWL25 in accordance with paragraph (g) of this AD terminates the action required by paragraph (h)(2) of AD 20080603.
We have revised paragraph (h) of this AD to clarify that the
actions identified in Table 1 of this AD must be done at the compliance
time specified in that table. Also, for standardization purposes, we have revised this AD in the following ways:
We provided the public the opportunity to participate in the development of this AD. We have considered the comments received. Request To Extend the Task Intervals for Certain AWL Inspections
KLM Royal Dutch Airlines, on behalf of several operators, requests that we review a 45page proposal to align certain airworthiness limitation item (ALI) intervals with the applicable maintenance significant item (MSI) and enhanced zonal analysis procedure (EZAP) intervals for Model 737, 747, 757, 767, and 777 airplanes. The recommendations in that proposal ensure that the ALI intervals align with the maintenance schedules of the operators. Among other changes, the proposal recommends extending certain AWL inspection intervals from 10 years/36,000 flight cycles to 12 years for Model 757 airplanes.
We disagree with KLM's request to extend certain AWL inspection intervals to 12 years. However, as stated previously, we have deleted the 36,000totalflightcycle parameter from Table 1 of this AD to correspond with the task intervals specified in Revision March 2008 of the MPD. In developing an appropriate compliance time for this action, we considered the urgency associated with the subject unsafe condition and the practical aspect of accomplishing the required actions within a period of time that corresponds to the normal scheduled maintenance for most affected operators. However, according to the provisions of paragraph (l) of this AD, we might approve requests to adjust the compliance time if the request includes data that prove that the new compliance time would provide an acceptable level of safety. Request To Revise the Loop Resistance Values for AWL No. 28AWL03
Boeing states that the loop resistance values for AWL No. 28AWL03 specified in Revision March 2006 of the MPD are going to be revised, since those values are relevant for production airplanes. Boeing also states that the revised values will be more representative of the expected values for inservice airplanes. Boeing points out that, according to paragraph (h) of the supplemental NPRM, the revised values should be able to be used in accordance with a later revision of the MPD if the revision is approved by the Seattle Aircraft Certification Office (ACO), FAA.
We agree that operators may use the revised loop resistance values for AWL No. 28AWL03 in accordance with Revision March 2008 of the MPD. As stated previously, we have revised this AD accordingly. Request To Revise Note 1
Boeing requests that we revise Note 1 of the supplemental NPRM to clarify the need for an AMOC. Boeing states that the current wording is difficult to follow, and that the note is meant to inform operators that an AMOC to the required MPD AWLs might be required if an operator has previously modified, altered, or repaired the areas addressed by the limitations. Boeing requests that we revise Note 1 as follows:
As stated previously, we have simplified the language in Note 1 of this AD for standardization with other similar ADs. The language the commenter requests that we change does not appear in the revised note. Therefore, no additional change to this AD is necessary in this regard. Conclusion
We have carefully reviewed the available data, including the comments 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. Costs of Compliance
There are about 990 airplanes of the affected design in the
worldwide fleet. The following table provides the estimated costs, at
an average labor rate of $80 per work hour, for U.S. operators to comply with this AD.
[[Page 25976]]
Estimated Costs
Number of
Cost per U.S.
Action Work hours airplane registered Fleet cost
airplanes
AWLs revision................................... 8 $640 639 $408,960
Inspections..................................... 8 640 639 408,960 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.
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
Accordingly, under the authority delegated to me by the Administrator, the FAA amends 14 CFR part 39 as follows:
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]
2. The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) amends Sec. 39.13 by adding the following new airworthiness directive (AD):
20081011 Boeing: Amendment 3915517. Docket No. FAA200626710; Directorate Identifier 2006NM147AD.
Effective Date
(a) This AD becomes effective June 12, 2008.
Affected ADs
(b) None.
Applicability
(c) This AD applies to all Boeing Model 757200, 200PF, 200CB, and 300 series airplanes, certificated in any category.
Note 1: This AD requires revisions to certain operator
maintenance documents to include new inspections. Compliance with
these inspections is required by 14 CFR 91.403(c). For airplanes
that have been previously modified, altered, or repaired in the
areas addressed by these inspections, the operator may not be able
to accomplish the inspections described in the revisions. In this
situation, to comply with 14 CFR 91.403(c), the operator must
request approval for an alternative method of compliance (AMOC)
according to paragraph (l) of this AD. The request should include a
description of changes to the required inspections that will ensure the continued operational safety of the airplane.
Unsafe Condition
(d) This AD results from a design review of the fuel tank
systems. We are issuing this AD to prevent the potential for
ignition sources inside fuel tanks caused by latent failures,
alterations, repairs, or maintenance actions, which, in combination
with flammable fuel vapors, could result in a fuel tank explosion and consequent loss 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.
Service Information
(f) The term ``Revision March 2008 of the MPD'' as used in this
AD, means Boeing Temporary Revision (TR) 09008, dated March 2008.
Boeing TR 09008 is published as Section 9 of the Boeing 757
Maintenance Planning Document (MPD) Document, D622N0019, Revision March 2008.
Revision of Airworthiness Limitations (AWLs) Section
(g) Before December 16, 2008, revise the AWLs section of the
Instructions for Continued Airworthiness (ICA) by incorporating the
information in the subsections specified in paragraphs (g)(1)
through (g)(3) of this AD into the MPD; except that the initial
inspections specified in Table 1 of this AD must be done at the
compliance times specified in Table 1. Accomplishing the revision in
accordance with a later revision of the MPD is an acceptable method
of compliance if the revision is approved by the Manager, Seattle Aircraft Certification Office (ACO), FAA.
(1) Subsection E, ``AIRWORTHINESS LIMITATIONSFUEL SYSTEMS,'' of Revision March 2008 of the MPD.
(2) Subsection F, ``PAGE FORMAT: SYSTEMS AIRWORTHINESS LIMITATIONS,'' of Revision March 2008 of the MPD.
(3) Subsection G, ``AIRWORTHINESS LIMITATIONSFUEL SYSTEM
AWLs,'' AWLs No. 28AWL01 through No. 28AWL24 inclusive, of
Revision March 2008 of the MPD. As an optional action, AWLs No. 28
AWL25 and No. 28AWL26, as identified in Subsection G of Revision
March 2008 of the MPD, also may be incorporated into the AWLs section of the ICA.
Initial Inspections and Repair
(h) Do the inspections specified in Table 1 of this AD at the
compliance time specified in Table 1 of this AD, and repair any
discrepancy, in accordance with Section G of Revision March 2008 of the MPD. The repair must be done before further flight.
Accomplishing the actions in accordance with a later revision of the
MPD is an acceptable method of compliance if the revision is
approved by the Manager, Seattle ACO. Accomplishing the inspections
identified in Table 1 of this AD as part of an FAAapproved
maintenance program before the applicable compliance time specified
in Table 1 of this AD constitutes compliance with the requirements of this paragraph.
[[Page 25977]]
Table 1.Initial Inspections
Compliance time (whichever occurs later)
AWL No. Description
Threshold Grace period
(1) 28AWL01........................ A detailed inspection Within 120 months since Within 72 months after
of external wires over the date of issuance the effective date of
the center fuel tank of the original this AD.
for damaged clamps, standard airworthiness
wire chafing, and wire certificate or the
bundles in contact date of issuance of
with the surface of the original export
the center fuel tank. certificate of
airworthiness.
(2) 28AWL03........................ A special detailed Within 120 months since Within 24 months after
inspection of the the date of issuance the effective date of
lightning shield to of the original this AD.
ground termination on standard airworthiness
the outoftank fuel certificate or the
quantity indicating date of issuance of
system to verify the original export
functional integrity. certificate of
airworthiness.
(3) 28AWL14........................ A special detailed Within 120 months since Within 60 months after
inspection of the the date of issuance the effective date of
fault current bond of of the original this AD.
the fueling shutoff standard airworthiness
valve actuator of the certificate or the
center wing tank to date of issuance of
verify electrical bond. the original export
certificate of
airworthiness.
Note 2: 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.''
Note 3: For the purposes of this AD, a special detailed
inspection is: ``An intensive examination of a specific item, installation, or assembly to detect damage, failure, or
irregularity. The examination is likely to make extensive use of
specialized inspection techniques and/or equipment. Intricate
cleaning and substantial access or disassembly procedure may be required.''
No Alternative Inspections, Inspection Intervals, or Critical Design Configuration Control Limitations (CDCCLs)
(i) After accomplishing the actions specified in paragraphs (g)
and (h) of this AD, no alternative inspections, inspection
intervals, or CDCCLs may be used unless the inspections, intervals,
or CDCCLs are part of a later revision of ``Revision March 2008 of
the MPD'' that is approved by the Manager, Seattle ACO; or unless
the inspections, intervals, or CDCCLs are approved as an AMOC in
accordance with the procedures specified in paragraph (l) of this AD.
Credit for Actions Done According to Previous Revisions of the MPD
(j) Actions done before the effective date of this AD in
accordance with Section 9 of the Boeing 757 MPD Document, D622N001
9, Revision March 2006; Revision October 2006; Revision January
2007; or Revision November 2007; are acceptable for compliance with
the corresponding requirements of paragraphs (g) and (h) of this AD. Terminating Action for AD 20080603, Amendment 3915415
(k) Incorporating AWLs No. 28AWL23, No. 28AWL24, and No. 28
AWL25 into the AWLs section of the ICA in accordance with paragraph
(g) of this AD terminates the action required by paragraph (h)(2) of AD 20080603.
Alternative Methods of Compliance (AMOCs)
(l)(1) The Manager, Seattle ACO, has the authority to approve
AMOCs for this AD, if requested in accordance with the procedures found in 14 CFR 39.19.
(2) To request a different method of compliance or a different
compliance time for this AD, follow the procedures in 14 CFR 39.19.
Before using any approved AMOC on any airplane to which the AMOC
applies, notify your appropriate principal inspector (PI) in the FAA
Flight Standards District Office (FSDO), or lacking a PI, your local FSDO.
Material Incorporated by Reference
(m) You must use Boeing Temporary Revision (TR) 09008, dated
March 2008, to the Boeing 757 Maintenance Planning Document (MPD)
Document, D622N0019, to perform the actions that are required by
this AD, unless the AD specifies otherwise. Boeing TR 09008 is
published as Section 9 of the Boeing 757 Maintenance Planning Document (MPD) Document, D622N0019, Revision March 2008.
(1) The Director of the Federal Register approved the
incorporation by reference of this document in accordance with 5 U.S.C. 552(a) and 1 CFR part 51.
(2) Contact Boeing Commercial Airplanes, P.O. Box 3707, Seattle,
Washington 981242207, for a copy of this service information.
(3) You may review copies at the FAA, Transport Airplane
Directorate, 1601 Lind Avenue SW., Renton, Washington; or at the
National Archives and Records Administration (NARA). For information
on the availability of this material at NARA, call 2027416030, or
go to: http://www.archives.gov/federalregister/cfr/ibr locations.html.
Issued in Renton, Washington, on April 29, 2008. Ali Bahrami,
Manager, Transport Airplane Directorate, Aircraft Certification Service.
[FR Doc. E89917 Filed 5708; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE 491013P
FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT Judy Coyle, Aerospace Engineer, Propulsion Branch, ANM140S, FAA, Seattle Aircraft Certification Office, 1601 Lind Avenue, SW., Renton, Washington 980573356; telephone (425) 9176497; fax (425) 9176590.
14 CFR Part 39 40 CFR Part 52 14 CFR Part 71 33 CFR Part 165 50 CFR Part 679 26 CFR Part 1 40 CFR Part 180 47 CFR Part 73 50 CFR Part 17 33 CFR Part 117 44 CFR Part 67 50 CFR Part 648 14 CFR Part 97 33 CFR Part 100 40 CFR Part 63 26 CFR Part 301 50 CFR Part 622 39 CFR Part 111 40 CFR Part 300 44 CFR Part 65 50 CFR Part 660 40 CFR Part 271 40 CFR Parts 52 and 81 47 CFR Part 64 50 CFR Part 665 49 CFR Part 571 44 CFR Part 64 14 CFR Part 23 47 CFR Part 76 50 CFR Part 229