Published 2006-02-21 · Federal Register document 06-1504
Airworthiness Directives; Airbus Model A321-100 Series Airplanes
Publication summary
The FAA is superseding an existing airworthiness directive (AD), which applies to certain Airbus Model A321-111, -112, and -131 series airplanes. That AD currently requires repetitive inspections to detect fatigue cracking in the area surrounding certain attachment holes of the forward pintle fittings of the main landing gear (MLG) and the actuating cylinder anchorage fittings on the inner rear spar; and repair, if necessary. The existing AD also provides for optional terminating action for the repetitive inspections. This AD adds inspections of three additional mounting holes and revises the thresholds for the currently required inspections. This AD results from manufacturer analysis of the fatigue and damage tolerance of the area surrounding certain mounting holes of the MLG. We are issuing this AD to detect and correct fatigue cracking on the inner rear spar of the wings, which could result in reduced structural integrity of the airplane.
Why this record is shown
Source: Federal Register annual FAA metadata. Acquired 2026-09-03T22:23:20.745856+00:00. The title, summary and date are source facts.
- Source revision
- federal_register_ad_metadata_2006-8d787f8b35bc8016
- Source row
- results[54]
- Raw source SHA-256
- 8d787f8b35bc80165a417cea66de09cd32a1700face13759db364c607e405963
Final-rule publication
Recorded publication clauses
- AD identifier printed in this edition
- 2006-04-11
- Effective date printed in this edition
- 2006-03-08
Read 15 complete recorded clauses
Effective Date
Effective Date
(a) This AD becomes effective March 8, 2006.
Exact source excerpt. Text positions 17049–17115, end exclusive, in the original decoded publication. SHA-256: 6f2a80fe45ca272709c40f92dabbbd4c26d8d2783ffec6f49266715e86d7bde9
Affected ADs
Affected ADs
(b) This AD supersedes AD 2004-07-15.
Exact source excerpt. Text positions 17115–17172, end exclusive, in the original decoded publication. SHA-256: d56cf17c81d4225cf6c692740e02c6c7e8112d7b88e42a2bf207a1bbd50f0dfb
Applicability wording · Applicability
Applicability
(c) This AD applies to Airbus Model A321-111, -112, and -131
airplanes, certificated in any category; all manufacturer serial
numbers (MSN), except MSN 364 and 365; and except for those
airplanes that have received Airbus Modification 24977 in
production.
Exact source excerpt. Text positions 17172–17452, end exclusive, in the original decoded publication. SHA-256: e43e6280b6c312cbe3c4c706192e9360b99a76fbe8c5edc12e3f76002385a615
Unsafe Condition
Unsafe Condition
(d) This AD results from manufacturer analysis of the fatigue
and damage tolerance of the area surrounding certain mounting holes
of the main landing gear (MLG). The FAA is issuing this AD to detect
and correct fatigue cracking on the inner rear spar of the wings,
which could result in reduced structural integrity of the airplane.
Exact source excerpt. Text positions 17452–17812, end exclusive, in the original decoded publication. SHA-256: a32e64f8889a8ebf777c6ab9ba49e48db80b8a452b73c713cd1cd2a4ea5c9ef6
Compliance
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.
Restatement of Requirements of AD 2004-07-15
Exact source excerpt. Text positions 17812–18036, end exclusive, in the original decoded publication. SHA-256: c0b22ee248bb6c446952bb2dacd2e9ef8c7c348f56175439455a9f5b7fd5c4f2
Repetitive Inspections and Corrective Actions
Repetitive Inspections and Corrective Actions
(f) Prior to the accumulation of 20,000 total flight cycles, or
within 120 days after December 18, 1998 (the effective date of AD
98-25-05, amendment 39-10928), whichever occurs later, perform an
ultrasonic inspection to detect fatigue cracking in the area
surrounding certain attachment holes of the forward pintle fittings
of the MLG and the actuating cylinder anchorage fittings on the
inner rear spar, in accordance with Airbus Service Bulletin A320-57-
1101, dated July 24, 1997; or Revision 02, dated October 25, 2001.
(1) If no cracking is detected, prior to further flight, repair
the sealant in the inspected areas and repeat the ultrasonic
inspections thereafter at intervals not to exceed 7,700 flight
cycles, until paragraph (g), (i), or (k) of this AD is accomplished.
(2) If any cracking is detected, prior to further flight, repair
in accordance with a method approved by either the Manager,
International Branch, ANM-116, Transport Airplane Directorate, FAA;
or the Direction Generale de l'Aviation Civile (DGAC) (or its
delegated agent).
Exact source excerpt. Text positions 18036–19164, end exclusive, in the original decoded publication. SHA-256: 2d90107597a0fe3dcb8a141a3872b471b41d4deeeea7cc9b053e7ab1382cec9c
Optional Terminating Action
Optional Terminating Action
(g) Accomplishment of visual and eddy current inspections to
detect cracking in the area surrounding certain attachment holes of
the forward pintle fittings of the MLG and the actuating cylinder
anchorage fittings on the inner rear spar; follow-on corrective
actions, as applicable; and rework of the attachment holes; in
accordance with Airbus Service Bulletin A320-57-1100, including
Appendix 01, dated July 28, 1997; or Revision 03, including
Appendices 01 and 02, dated January 16, 2003; constitutes
terminating action for the repetitive inspection requirements of
this AD. Actions accomplished in accordance with Airbus Service
Bulletin A320-57-1100, Revision 01, including Appendices 01 and 02,
dated June 4, 1999; or Revision 02, including Appendices 01 and 02,
dated October 25, 2001; are considered acceptable for compliance
with the optional terminating action specified in this paragraph. If
any cracking is detected during accomplishment of any inspection
described in the service bulletin, and the service bulletin
specifies to contact Airbus for appropriate action: Prior to further
flight, repair in accordance with a method approved by either the
Manager, International Branch, ANM-116; or the DGAC (or its
delegated agent).
Exact source excerpt. Text positions 19164–20458, end exclusive, in the original decoded publication. SHA-256: d30f5d5c46dca0f8b725827cb5d8b1d96304ae745c5590b061734a9bb2f13445
Repetitive Inspections for Airplanes Not Previously Inspected Per Paragraph (f)
Repetitive Inspections for Airplanes Not Previously Inspected Per
Paragraph (f)
(h) For airplanes on which the initial inspection required by
paragraph (f) of this AD has not been accomplished as of April 21,
2004 (the effective date of AD 2004-07-15): Accomplish the
inspection required by paragraph (f) of this AD, at the earlier of
the times specified in paragraphs (h)(1) and (h)(2) of this AD. If
no cracking is found, repeat the inspection thereafter at intervals
not to exceed 5,500 flight cycles or 10,200 flight hours, whichever
occurs first, until paragraph (g) or (k) of this AD is accomplished.
Accomplishment of this paragraph eliminates the need to accomplish
repetitive inspections at the intervals required by paragraph (f)(1)
of this AD.
(1) Prior to the accumulation of 20,000 total flight cycles.
(2) Prior to the accumulation of 37,300 total flight hours, or
within 120 days after April 21, 2004, whichever occurs later.
Exact source excerpt. Text positions 20458–21425, end exclusive, in the original decoded publication. SHA-256: e2e8a98d9fdba9edb3036224344a63167ec37773672d8139b9b8c5813833c970
Repetitive Inspections for Airplanes Previously Inspected Per Paragraph (f)
Repetitive Inspections for Airplanes Previously Inspected Per
Paragraph (f)
(i) For airplanes on which the initial inspection required by
paragraph (f) of this AD has been accomplished as of April 21, 2004,
and no cracking was found: Do the next inspection at the earlier of
the times specified in paragraphs (i)(1) and (i)(2) of this AD, and
repeat the inspection thereafter at intervals not to exceed 5,500
flight cycles or 10,200 flight hours, whichever occurs first, until
paragraph (g) or (k) of this AD is accomplished. Accomplishment of
this paragraph terminates the repetitive inspections required by
paragraph (f)(1) of this AD.
(1) Within 7,700 flight cycles since the most recent inspection.
(2) At the later of the times specified in paragraph (i)(2)(i)
or (i)(2)(ii) of this AD:
(i) Within 5,500 flight cycles or 10,200 flight hours since the
most recent inspection, whichever occurs first.
(ii) Within 120 days after April 21, 2004.
Exact source excerpt. Text positions 21425–22405, end exclusive, in the original decoded publication. SHA-256: a7acd2b12ca4dedb4c5b3bbaef228f91dcbc58b706818aea1b27358bcf8475aa
Existing Repair
Existing Repair
(j) If any cracking is detected during any inspection required
by paragraph (h) or (i) of this AD: Prior to further flight, repair
in accordance with a method approved by either the Manager,
International Branch, ANM-116; or the DGAC (or its delegated agent).
New Requirements of This AD
Exact source excerpt. Text positions 22405–22719, end exclusive, in the original decoded publication. SHA-256: 0badc3de6f251b1230c9715266c5cad56ceb66a257485cc5ea4dd565f770b49a
Initial and Repetitive Inspections
Initial and Repetitive Inspections
(k) Within the applicable compliance times specified by
paragraph (k)(1), (k)(2), or (k)(3) of this AD, perform an
ultrasonic inspection for cracking of the attachment holes of the
MLG pintle fittings in the inner rear spar in accordance with the
Accomplishment Instructions of Airbus Service Bulletin A320-57-1101,
Revision 03, dated July 30, 2003; or Revision 04, dated November 22,
2004. If no cracking is found, repeat the inspection thereafter at
intervals not to exceed 5,500 flight cycles or 10,200 flight hours,
whichever occurs first, until paragraph (g) of this AD is
accomplished. Accomplishment of this paragraph terminates the
repetitive inspections required by paragraphs (f)(1), (h), and (i)
of this AD.
(1) For airplanes that have never been inspected in accordance
with Airbus Service Bulletin A320-57-1101, dated July 24, 1997; or
Revision 02, dated October 25, 2001: Before the accumulation of
20,000 total flight cycles or 37,300 total flight hours, whichever
occurs first; or within 120 days after the effective date of this
AD; whichever occurs later.
(2) For airplanes previously inspected in accordance with Airbus
Service Bulletin A320-57-1101, dated July 24, 1997; or Revision 02,
dated October 25, 2001, that have accumulated less than 18,900 total
flight cycles or 35,300 total flight hours as of the effective date
of this AD: Within 5,500 flight cycles or 10,200 flight hours,
whichever occurs first, after the previous inspection performed in
accordance with Airbus Service Bulletin A320-57-1101, Revision 02,
dated October 25, 2001; or within 120 days after the effective date
of this AD; whichever occurs later.
(3) For airplanes previously inspected in accordance with Airbus
Service Bulletin A320-57-1101, dated July 24, 1997; or Revision 02,
dated October 25, 2001, that have accumulated 18,900 or more flight
cycles or 35,300 or more flight hours as of the effective date of
this AD: Before the accumulation of 24,400 total flight cycles or
45,600 total flight hours, whichever occurs first; or within 120
days after the effective date of this AD; whichever occurs later.
Exact source excerpt. Text positions 22719–24911, end exclusive, in the original decoded publication. SHA-256: 771c5d9d05e15e6a2253cf98b6edf25eb17f93944b4b65a235e373738467fd9e
New Repair
New Repair
(l) If any crack is detected during any inspection required by
paragraph (k) of this AD: Prior to further flight, repair in
accordance with a method approved by either the Manager,
International Branch, ANM-116; or the DGAC (or its delegated agent).
[[Page 8796]]
Exact source excerpt. Text positions 24911–25196, end exclusive, in the original decoded publication. SHA-256: ca3c2321076f7a4f41fdbe55c4efde12fffa068045256b70cd60a3c760eb23e1
No Reporting Requirement
No Reporting Requirement
(m) Although Airbus Service Bulletin A320-57-1101, Revision 02,
dated October 25, 2001; and Revision 04, dated November 22, 2004;
describe procedures for reporting inspection findings to Airbus,
this AD does not require such a report.
Alternative Methods of Compliance (AMOCs)
(n)(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.
Exact source excerpt. Text positions 25196–25909, end exclusive, in the original decoded publication. SHA-256: 50ded170df094be4d134848cc7973987a50dab8be9b47984d1b338f4398935f1
Related Information
Related Information
(o) French airworthiness directive F-2004-166, dated October 13,
2004, also addresses the subject of this AD.
Exact source excerpt. Text positions 25909–26046, end exclusive, in the original decoded publication. SHA-256: 6361d70690323e54bd1647630e6c6de78efef3c023651359e652c15dc9ba0de1
Material Incorporated by Reference
Material Incorporated by Reference
(p) You must use the service information specified in Table 1 of
this AD to perform the actions that are required by this AD, unless
the AD specifies otherwise.
Table 1.--All Material Incorporated by Reference
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Airbus service bulletin Revision level Date
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
A320-57-1100, including Appendix 01...... Original.................... July 28, 1997.
A320-57-1100, including Appendices 01 and 03.......................... January 16, 2003.
02.
A320-57-1101............................. Original.................... July 24, 1997.
A320-57-1101............................. 02.......................... October 25, 2001.
A320-57-1101............................. 03.......................... July 30, 2003.
A320-57-1101............................. 04.......................... November 22, 2004.
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
The optional terminating action specified in paragraph (g) of
this AD should be done in accordance with the service bulletins
specified in Table 2 of this AD.
Table 2.--Optional Service Bulletins
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Airbus service bulletin Revision level Date
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
A320-57-1100, including Appendix 01...... Original.................... July 28, 1997.
A320-57-1100, including Appendices 01 and 03.......................... January 16, 2003.
02.
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
(1) The Director of the Federal Register approved the
incorporation by reference of the service bulletins specified in
Table 3 of this AD, in accordance with 5 U.S.C. 552(a) and 1 CFR
part 51.
Table 3.--New Material Incorporated by Reference
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Airbus service bulletin Revision level Date
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
A320-57-1100, including Appendix 01...... Original.................... July 28, 1997.
A320-57-1100, including Appendices 01 and 03.......................... January 16, 2003.
02.
A320-57-1101............................. 03.......................... July 30, 2003.
A320-57-1101............................. 04.......................... November 22, 2004.
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
(2) The incorporation by reference of Airbus Service Bulletin
A320-57-1101, Revision 02, dated October 25, 2001, was approved
previously by the Director of the Federal Register as of April 21,
2004 (69 FR 17906, April 6, 2004).
(3) The incorporation by reference of Airbus Service Bulletin
A320-57-1101, dated July 24, 1997, was approved previously by the
Director of the Federal Register as of December 18, 1998 (63 FR
66753, December 3, 1998).
(4) 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.
Exact source excerpt. Text positions 26046–30293, end exclusive, in the original decoded publication. SHA-256: d510d02179c07439778eaa92333ed58870cc3f69f71131f3fc111b9561920d00
No replacement link has been established from this edition. The complete historical rule chain and current legal effect remain unknown.
Find all recorded historical references to AD 2006-04-11 · 0 printed reference observations in this pinned collection.
These are observations from one dated publication. Current legal status is unknown; aircraft applicability, installed configuration, compliance and burden require separate evidence. Missing or unparsed conditions remain unknown.
Why these observations are shown
They were extracted offline from the same immutable official HTML source as the complete recorded text. The dated source wording, original text coordinates and exact quote digests are retained. PDF/text agreement and current regulatory effect have not been qualified.
Observation revision: whole-ad-publication-clause-observations-1.0.1. Text SHA-256: 51b52a4a87f91e49b0d6774ddf79eb03852a87aec5e803c58fdbd34e47d6df21. Source manifest: 41710dff068a16d124cc545266310a5b5c6852c461d5ffb2f834996c32a8db1d.
Official source · 2006-02-21
Publication text
This is the complete recorded text of this dated publication.
Current legal effect is unknown. Aircraft applicability, installed configuration and compliance require separate evidence. PDF/text agreement has not been evaluated.
Read the complete official publication text
[Federal Register Volume 71, Number 34 (Tuesday, February 21, 2006)]
[Rules and Regulations]
[Pages 8792-8796]
From the Federal Register Online via the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]
[FR Doc No: 06-1504]
=======================================================================
-----------------------------------------------------------------------
DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION
Federal Aviation Administration
14 CFR Part 39
[Docket No. FAA-2006-23935; Directorate Identifier 2005-NM-060-AD;
Amendment 39-14492; AD 2006-04-11]
RIN 2120-AA64
Airworthiness Directives; Airbus Model A321-100 Series Airplanes
AGENCY: Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), Department of
Transportation (DOT).
ACTION: Final rule; request for comments.
-----------------------------------------------------------------------
SUMMARY: The FAA is superseding an existing airworthiness directive
(AD), which applies to certain Airbus Model A321-111, -112, and -131
series airplanes. That AD currently requires repetitive inspections to
detect fatigue cracking in the area surrounding certain attachment
holes of the forward pintle fittings of the main landing gear (MLG) and
the actuating cylinder anchorage fittings on the inner rear spar; and
repair, if necessary. The existing AD also provides for optional
terminating action for the repetitive inspections. This AD adds
inspections of three additional mounting holes and revises the
thresholds for the currently required inspections. This AD results from
manufacturer analysis of the fatigue and damage tolerance of the area
surrounding certain mounting holes of the MLG. We are issuing this AD
to detect and correct fatigue cracking on the inner rear spar of the
wings, which could result in reduced structural integrity of the
airplane.
DATES: This AD becomes effective March 8, 2006.
The Director of the Federal Register approved the incorporation by
reference of certain publications listed in the AD as of March 8, 2006.
The incorporation by reference of Airbus Service Bulletin A320-57-
1101, Revision 02, dated October 25, 2001, as listed in the
regulations, was approved previously by the Director of the Federal
Register as of April 21, 2004 (69 FR 17906, April 6, 2004).
[[Page 8793]]
The incorporation by reference of Airbus Service Bulletin A320-57-
1101, dated July 24, 1997, as listed in the regulations, was approved
previously by the Director of the Federal Register as of December 18,
1998 (63 FR 66753, December 3, 1998).
We must receive comments on this AD by April 24, 2006.
ADDRESSES: Use one of the following addresses to submit comments on
this AD.
<bullet> DOT Docket Web site: Go to http://dms.dot.gov and follow
the instructions for sending your comments electronically.
<bullet> Government-wide rulemaking Web site: Go to http://www.regulations.gov and follow the instructions for sending your
comments electronically.
<bullet> Mail: Docket Management Facility; U.S. Department of
Transportation, 400 Seventh Street, SW., Nassif Building, Room PL-401,
Washington, DC 20590.
<bullet> Fax: (202) 493-2251.
<bullet> Hand Delivery: Room PL-401 on the plaza level of the
Nassif Building, 400 Seventh Street, SW., Washington, DC, between 9
a.m. and 5 p.m., Monday through Friday, except Federal holidays.
Contact Airbus, 1 Rond Point Maurice Bellonte, 31707 Blagnac Cedex,
France, for service information identified in this AD.
FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Dan Rodina, Aerospace Engineer,
International Branch, ANM-116, FAA, Transport Airplane Directorate,
1601 Lind Avenue, SW., Renton, Washington 98055-4056; telephone (425)
227-2125; fax (425) 227-1149.
SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION:
Discussion
On March 25, 2004, we issued AD 2004-07-15, amendment 39-13559 (69
FR 17906, April 6, 2004), for certain Airbus Model A321-111, -112, and
-131 series airplanes. That AD requires repetitive inspections to
detect fatigue cracking in the area surrounding certain attachment
holes of the forward pintle fittings of the main landing gear (MLG) and
the actuating cylinder anchorage fittings on the inner rear spar; and
repair, if necessary. That AD also provided for optional terminating
action for the repetitive inspections. That AD resulted from a fleet
survey by the manufacturer. We issued that AD to detect and correct
fatigue cracking on the inner rear spar of the wings, which could
result in reduced structural integrity of the airplane.
Actions Since Existing AD Was Issued
Since we issued AD 2004-07-15, Airbus conducted further analysis of
the fatigue and damage tolerance of the mounting holes of the inner
rear spar of the wing. The results of the analysis revealed that three
more mounting holes require inspection and that it is necessary to
decrease the thresholds of the repetitive inspections already required
by AD 2004-07-15.
Relevant Service Information
Airbus has issued Service Bulletin (SB) A320-57-1101, Revision 04,
dated November 22, 2004. (AD 2004-07-15 refers to Airbus SB A320-57-
1101, dated July 24, 1997; and Revision 02, dated October 25, 2001; as
appropriate sources of service information for the actions required by
that AD.) SB A320-57-1101, Revision 04, describes procedures for
performing repetitive ultrasonic inspections for fatigue cracking in
the area around certain mounting holes on the inner rear spar of the
wings. The thresholds specified in SB A320-57-1101, Revision 04, have
been reduced from those specified in SB A320-57-1101, Revision 02; and
from those thresholds specified in Airbus SB A320-57-1101, Revision 03,
dated July 30, 2003, which added three additional mounting holes to the
area subject to the repetitive inspections. The Direction
G[eacute]n[eacute]rale de l'Aviation Civile (DGAC), which is the
airworthiness authority for France, mandated SB A320-57-1101, Revision
03, and issued French airworthiness directive F-2004-166, dated October
13, 2004, to ensure the continued airworthiness of these airplanes in
France. Airbus SB A320-57-1101, Revision 04--which was released after
the issuance of French airworthiness directive F-2004-166--is also
acceptable for accomplishing the requirements of this AD.
We have reviewed later revisions of Airbus SB A320-57-1100, dated
July 28, 1997, which is designated as the appropriate source of
information for accomplishing the optional terminating action specified
in paragraph (b) of AD 2004-07-15. Those later revisions are Airbus SB
A320-57-1100, Revision 01, dated June 4, 1999; Revision 02, dated
October 25, 2001; and Revision 03, dated January 16, 2003. Though not
specified in AD 2004-07-15, SB A320-57-1100 includes Appendix 01 only,
while SB A320-57-1100, Revisions 01, 02, and 03 include Appendices 01
and 02. Any revision of SB A320-57-1100 is considered an acceptable
source of service information for accomplishing the optional
terminating action specified in paragraph (b) of AD 2004-07-15, which
is restated as paragraph (g) of this AD.
FAA's Determination and Requirements of This AD
This airplane model is manufactured in France and is type
certificated for operation in the United States under the provisions of
section 21.29 of the Federal Aviation Regulations (14 CFR 21.29) and
the applicable bilateral airworthiness agreement. Pursuant to this
bilateral airworthiness agreement, the DGAC has kept the FAA informed
of the situation described above. We have examined the DGAC's findings,
evaluated all pertinent information, and determined that we need to
issue an AD for products of this type design that are certificated for
operation in the United States.
We are issuing this AD to supersede AD 2004-07-15. This new AD
continues to require repetitive inspections to detect fatigue cracking
in the area surrounding certain attachment holes of the forward pintle
fittings of the MLG and the actuating cylinder anchorage fittings on
the inner rear spar; and repair, if necessary; and additional
inspections and repairs, if necessary; as specified in the service
information described previously; except as discussed under
``Difference Between French Airworthiness Directive and This AD'' and
``Differences Between This AD and Service Information.''
Difference Between French Airworthiness Directive and This AD
The applicability of French airworthiness directive F-2004-166
excludes airplanes on which Airbus SB A320-57-1100 was accomplished in
service. However, we have not excluded those airplanes in the
applicability of this AD; rather, this AD includes a requirement to
accomplish the actions specified in SB A320-57-1101, Revision 04, and
provides for doing SB A320-57-1100 as an optional terminating action
for the actions in SB A320-57-1101. This requirement will ensure that
the actions specified in SB A320-57-1101, Revision 04, are accomplished
on all affected airplanes. Operators must continue to operate the
airplane in the configuration required by this AD unless an alternative
method of compliance (AMOC) is approved.
Differences Between This AD and Service Information
Airbus SB A320-57-1101, Revision 04, does not describe any method
or service information to be used to repair any crack discovered during
any inspection specified by the service information. Therefore, this AD
requires operators to use a repair method that we
[[Page 8794]]
or the DGAC (or its delegated agent) approve.
Although the service bulletins describe procedures for reporting
inspection findings to Airbus, this AD does not require such a report.
Explanation of Change to Applicability
We have revised the applicability of the existing AD to identify
model designations as published in the most recent type certificate
data sheet for the affected models.
Change to Existing AD
This AD would retain certain requirements of AD 2004-07-15. Since
AD 2004-07-15 was issued, the AD format has been revised, and certain
paragraphs have been rearranged. As a result, the corresponding
paragraph identifiers have changed in this AD, as listed in the
following table:
Revised Paragraph Identifiers
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Corresponding requirement in
Requirement in AD 2004-07-15 this proposed AD
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Paragraph (a)........................... Paragraph (f).
Paragraph (b)........................... Paragraph (g).
Paragraph (c)........................... Paragraph (h).
Paragraph (d)........................... Paragraph (i).
Paragraph (e)........................... Paragraph (j).
Paragraph (f)........................... Paragraph (m).
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Clarification of 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.
Costs of Compliance
None of the airplanes affected by this action are on the U.S.
Register. All airplanes included in the applicability of this AD
currently are operated by non-U.S. operators under foreign registry;
therefore, they are not directly affected by this AD action. However,
we consider that this AD is necessary to ensure that the unsafe
condition is addressed in the event that any of these subject airplanes
are imported and placed on the U.S. Register in the future.
If an affected airplane is imported and placed on the U.S. Register
in the future, it would require approximately 22 work hours to
accomplish the required actions at an average labor rate of $65 per
work hour. Based on these figures, the cost impact of this AD would be
$1,430 per airplane.
If an operator elects to accomplish the optional terminating action
provided by this AD, it would take approximately 520 work hours to
accomplish, at an average labor rate of $65 per work hour. The cost of
required parts would be approximately $17,540 per airplane. Based on
these figures, the cost impact of the optional terminating action would
be $51,340 per airplane.
FAA's Determination of the Effective Date
No airplane affected by this AD is currently on the U.S. Register.
Therefore, providing notice and opportunity for public comment is
unnecessary before this AD is issued, and this AD may be made effective
in less than 30 days after it is published in the Federal Register.
Comments Invited
This AD is a final rule that involves requirements that affect
flight safety and was not preceded by notice and an opportunity for
public comment; however, we invite you to submit any relevant written
data, views, or arguments regarding this AD. Send your comments to an
address listed in the ADDRESSES section. Include ``Docket No. FAA-2006-
23935; Directorate Identifier 2005-NM-060-AD'' at the beginning of your
comments. We specifically invite comments on the overall regulatory,
economic, environmental, and energy aspects of the AD that might
suggest a need to modify it.
We will post all comments we receive, without change, to http://dms.dot.gov, including any personal information you provide. We will
also post a report summarizing each substantive verbal contact with FAA
personnel concerning this AD. Using the search function of that Web
site, anyone can find and read the comments in any of our dockets,
including the name of the individual who sent the comment (or signed
the comment on behalf of an association, business, labor union, etc.).
You may review the DOT's complete Privacy Act Statement in the Federal
Register published on April 11, 2000 (65 FR 19477-78), or you may visit
http://dms.dot.gov.
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 DOT
street address stated in the ADDRESSES section. Comments will be
available in the AD docket shortly after the Docket Management System
receives them.
Authority for This Rulemaking
Title 49 of the United States Code specifies the FAA's authority to
issue rules on aviation safety. Subtitle I, section 106, describes the
authority of the FAA Administrator. Subtitle VII, Aviation Programs,
describes in more detail the scope of the Agency's authority.
We are issuing this rulemaking under the authority described in
subtitle VII, part A, subpart III, section 44701, ``General
requirements.'' Under that section, Congress charges the FAA with
promoting safe flight of civil aircraft in air commerce by prescribing
regulations for practices, methods, and procedures the Administrator
finds necessary for safety in air commerce. This regulation is within
the scope of that authority because it addresses an unsafe condition
that is likely to exist or develop on products identified in this
rulemaking action.
Regulatory Findings
We have determined that this AD will not have federalism
implications under Executive Order 13132. This AD will not have a
substantial direct effect on the States, on the relationship between
the National Government and the States, or on the distribution of power
and responsibilities among the various levels of government.
For the reasons discussed above, I certify that the regulation:
1. Is not a ``significant regulatory action'' under Executive Order
12866;
2. Is not a ``significant rule'' under the DOT Regulatory Policies
and Procedures (44 FR 11034, February 26, 1979); and
3. Will not have a significant economic impact, positive or
negative, on a substantial number of small entities under the criteria
of the Regulatory Flexibility Act.
We prepared a regulatory evaluation of the estimated costs to
comply with this AD 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:
[[Page 8795]]
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
removing amendment 39-13559 (69 FR 17906, April 6, 2004) and by adding
the following new airworthiness directive (AD):
2006-04-11 Airbus: Amendment 39-14492. Docket No. FAA-2006-23935;
Directorate Identifier 2005-NM-060-AD.
Effective Date
(a) This AD becomes effective March 8, 2006.
Affected ADs
(b) This AD supersedes AD 2004-07-15.
Applicability
(c) This AD applies to Airbus Model A321-111, -112, and -131
airplanes, certificated in any category; all manufacturer serial
numbers (MSN), except MSN 364 and 365; and except for those
airplanes that have received Airbus Modification 24977 in
production.
Unsafe Condition
(d) This AD results from manufacturer analysis of the fatigue
and damage tolerance of the area surrounding certain mounting holes
of the main landing gear (MLG). The FAA is issuing this AD to detect
and correct fatigue cracking on the inner rear spar of the wings,
which could result in reduced structural integrity 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.
Restatement of Requirements of AD 2004-07-15
Repetitive Inspections and Corrective Actions
(f) Prior to the accumulation of 20,000 total flight cycles, or
within 120 days after December 18, 1998 (the effective date of AD
98-25-05, amendment 39-10928), whichever occurs later, perform an
ultrasonic inspection to detect fatigue cracking in the area
surrounding certain attachment holes of the forward pintle fittings
of the MLG and the actuating cylinder anchorage fittings on the
inner rear spar, in accordance with Airbus Service Bulletin A320-57-
1101, dated July 24, 1997; or Revision 02, dated October 25, 2001.
(1) If no cracking is detected, prior to further flight, repair
the sealant in the inspected areas and repeat the ultrasonic
inspections thereafter at intervals not to exceed 7,700 flight
cycles, until paragraph (g), (i), or (k) of this AD is accomplished.
(2) If any cracking is detected, prior to further flight, repair
in accordance with a method approved by either the Manager,
International Branch, ANM-116, Transport Airplane Directorate, FAA;
or the Direction Generale de l'Aviation Civile (DGAC) (or its
delegated agent).
Optional Terminating Action
(g) Accomplishment of visual and eddy current inspections to
detect cracking in the area surrounding certain attachment holes of
the forward pintle fittings of the MLG and the actuating cylinder
anchorage fittings on the inner rear spar; follow-on corrective
actions, as applicable; and rework of the attachment holes; in
accordance with Airbus Service Bulletin A320-57-1100, including
Appendix 01, dated July 28, 1997; or Revision 03, including
Appendices 01 and 02, dated January 16, 2003; constitutes
terminating action for the repetitive inspection requirements of
this AD. Actions accomplished in accordance with Airbus Service
Bulletin A320-57-1100, Revision 01, including Appendices 01 and 02,
dated June 4, 1999; or Revision 02, including Appendices 01 and 02,
dated October 25, 2001; are considered acceptable for compliance
with the optional terminating action specified in this paragraph. If
any cracking is detected during accomplishment of any inspection
described in the service bulletin, and the service bulletin
specifies to contact Airbus for appropriate action: Prior to further
flight, repair in accordance with a method approved by either the
Manager, International Branch, ANM-116; or the DGAC (or its
delegated agent).
Repetitive Inspections for Airplanes Not Previously Inspected Per
Paragraph (f)
(h) For airplanes on which the initial inspection required by
paragraph (f) of this AD has not been accomplished as of April 21,
2004 (the effective date of AD 2004-07-15): Accomplish the
inspection required by paragraph (f) of this AD, at the earlier of
the times specified in paragraphs (h)(1) and (h)(2) of this AD. If
no cracking is found, repeat the inspection thereafter at intervals
not to exceed 5,500 flight cycles or 10,200 flight hours, whichever
occurs first, until paragraph (g) or (k) of this AD is accomplished.
Accomplishment of this paragraph eliminates the need to accomplish
repetitive inspections at the intervals required by paragraph (f)(1)
of this AD.
(1) Prior to the accumulation of 20,000 total flight cycles.
(2) Prior to the accumulation of 37,300 total flight hours, or
within 120 days after April 21, 2004, whichever occurs later.
Repetitive Inspections for Airplanes Previously Inspected Per
Paragraph (f)
(i) For airplanes on which the initial inspection required by
paragraph (f) of this AD has been accomplished as of April 21, 2004,
and no cracking was found: Do the next inspection at the earlier of
the times specified in paragraphs (i)(1) and (i)(2) of this AD, and
repeat the inspection thereafter at intervals not to exceed 5,500
flight cycles or 10,200 flight hours, whichever occurs first, until
paragraph (g) or (k) of this AD is accomplished. Accomplishment of
this paragraph terminates the repetitive inspections required by
paragraph (f)(1) of this AD.
(1) Within 7,700 flight cycles since the most recent inspection.
(2) At the later of the times specified in paragraph (i)(2)(i)
or (i)(2)(ii) of this AD:
(i) Within 5,500 flight cycles or 10,200 flight hours since the
most recent inspection, whichever occurs first.
(ii) Within 120 days after April 21, 2004.
Existing Repair
(j) If any cracking is detected during any inspection required
by paragraph (h) or (i) of this AD: Prior to further flight, repair
in accordance with a method approved by either the Manager,
International Branch, ANM-116; or the DGAC (or its delegated agent).
New Requirements of This AD
Initial and Repetitive Inspections
(k) Within the applicable compliance times specified by
paragraph (k)(1), (k)(2), or (k)(3) of this AD, perform an
ultrasonic inspection for cracking of the attachment holes of the
MLG pintle fittings in the inner rear spar in accordance with the
Accomplishment Instructions of Airbus Service Bulletin A320-57-1101,
Revision 03, dated July 30, 2003; or Revision 04, dated November 22,
2004. If no cracking is found, repeat the inspection thereafter at
intervals not to exceed 5,500 flight cycles or 10,200 flight hours,
whichever occurs first, until paragraph (g) of this AD is
accomplished. Accomplishment of this paragraph terminates the
repetitive inspections required by paragraphs (f)(1), (h), and (i)
of this AD.
(1) For airplanes that have never been inspected in accordance
with Airbus Service Bulletin A320-57-1101, dated July 24, 1997; or
Revision 02, dated October 25, 2001: Before the accumulation of
20,000 total flight cycles or 37,300 total flight hours, whichever
occurs first; or within 120 days after the effective date of this
AD; whichever occurs later.
(2) For airplanes previously inspected in accordance with Airbus
Service Bulletin A320-57-1101, dated July 24, 1997; or Revision 02,
dated October 25, 2001, that have accumulated less than 18,900 total
flight cycles or 35,300 total flight hours as of the effective date
of this AD: Within 5,500 flight cycles or 10,200 flight hours,
whichever occurs first, after the previous inspection performed in
accordance with Airbus Service Bulletin A320-57-1101, Revision 02,
dated October 25, 2001; or within 120 days after the effective date
of this AD; whichever occurs later.
(3) For airplanes previously inspected in accordance with Airbus
Service Bulletin A320-57-1101, dated July 24, 1997; or Revision 02,
dated October 25, 2001, that have accumulated 18,900 or more flight
cycles or 35,300 or more flight hours as of the effective date of
this AD: Before the accumulation of 24,400 total flight cycles or
45,600 total flight hours, whichever occurs first; or within 120
days after the effective date of this AD; whichever occurs later.
New Repair
(l) If any crack is detected during any inspection required by
paragraph (k) of this AD: Prior to further flight, repair in
accordance with a method approved by either the Manager,
International Branch, ANM-116; or the DGAC (or its delegated agent).
[[Page 8796]]
No Reporting Requirement
(m) Although Airbus Service Bulletin A320-57-1101, Revision 02,
dated October 25, 2001; and Revision 04, dated November 22, 2004;
describe procedures for reporting inspection findings to Airbus,
this AD does not require such a report.
Alternative Methods of Compliance (AMOCs)
(n)(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
(o) French airworthiness directive F-2004-166, dated October 13,
2004, also addresses the subject of this AD.
Material Incorporated by Reference
(p) You must use the service information specified in Table 1 of
this AD to perform the actions that are required by this AD, unless
the AD specifies otherwise.
Table 1.--All Material Incorporated by Reference
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Airbus service bulletin Revision level Date
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
A320-57-1100, including Appendix 01...... Original.................... July 28, 1997.
A320-57-1100, including Appendices 01 and 03.......................... January 16, 2003.
02.
A320-57-1101............................. Original.................... July 24, 1997.
A320-57-1101............................. 02.......................... October 25, 2001.
A320-57-1101............................. 03.......................... July 30, 2003.
A320-57-1101............................. 04.......................... November 22, 2004.
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
The optional terminating action specified in paragraph (g) of
this AD should be done in accordance with the service bulletins
specified in Table 2 of this AD.
Table 2.--Optional Service Bulletins
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Airbus service bulletin Revision level Date
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
A320-57-1100, including Appendix 01...... Original.................... July 28, 1997.
A320-57-1100, including Appendices 01 and 03.......................... January 16, 2003.
02.
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
(1) The Director of the Federal Register approved the
incorporation by reference of the service bulletins specified in
Table 3 of this AD, in accordance with 5 U.S.C. 552(a) and 1 CFR
part 51.
Table 3.--New Material Incorporated by Reference
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Airbus service bulletin Revision level Date
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
A320-57-1100, including Appendix 01...... Original.................... July 28, 1997.
A320-57-1100, including Appendices 01 and 03.......................... January 16, 2003.
02.
A320-57-1101............................. 03.......................... July 30, 2003.
A320-57-1101............................. 04.......................... November 22, 2004.
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
(2) The incorporation by reference of Airbus Service Bulletin
A320-57-1101, Revision 02, dated October 25, 2001, was approved
previously by the Director of the Federal Register as of April 21,
2004 (69 FR 17906, April 6, 2004).
(3) The incorporation by reference of Airbus Service Bulletin
A320-57-1101, dated July 24, 1997, was approved previously by the
Director of the Federal Register as of December 18, 1998 (63 FR
66753, December 3, 1998).
(4) 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 February 9, 2006.
Kalene C. Yanamura,
Acting Manager, Transport Airplane Directorate, Aircraft Certification
Service.
[FR Doc. 06-1504 Filed 2-17-06; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE 4910-13-P
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