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Published 2010-07-01 · Federal Register document 2010-15651

Airworthiness Directives; The Boeing Company Model 747-100, 747-100B, 747-100B SUD, 747-200B, 747-200C, 747-200F, 747-300, 747-400, 747-400D, 747-400F, 747SR, and 747SP Series Airplanes

Publication summary

We are adopting a new airworthiness directive (AD) for certain Model 747 series airplanes. This AD requires replacing the power control relays for the main tank fuel boost pumps and jettison pumps, and the center tank scavenge pump, as applicable, with new relays having a ground fault interrupt (GFI) feature. This AD also requires revising the maintenance program to incorporate Airworthiness Limitations (AWLs) 28-AWL-23 (for Model 747-100, 747-100B, 747-100B SUD, 747-200B, 747-200C, 747-200F, 747-300, 747SP, and 747SR series airplanes), and AWLs 28-AWL-28 and 28-AWL-29 (for Model 747-400, 747- 400D, and 747-400F series airplanes). This AD results from fuel system reviews conducted by the manufacturer. We are issuing this AD to prevent damage to the fuel pumps caused by electrical arcing that could introduce an ignition source in the fuel tank, which, in combination with flammable fuel vapors, could result in a fuel tank explosion and consequent loss of the airplane.

Why this record is shown

Source: Federal Register annual FAA metadata. Acquired 2026-09-03T22:23:33.146842+00:00. The title, summary and date are source facts.

Source revision
federal_register_ad_metadata_2010-a7267cd3a71dbd26
Source row
results[198]
Raw source SHA-256
a7267cd3a71dbd2645583c8a673df65e4a7fa9360a96e3be0de5b81f9d68c9a0

Final-rule publication

Recorded publication clauses

AD identifier printed in this edition
2010-13-12
Effective date printed in this edition
2010-08-05
Read 11 complete recorded clauses
Effective Date
Effective Date

    (a) This airworthiness directive (AD) is effective August 5, 
2010.

Exact source excerpt. Text positions 19479–19568, end exclusive, in the original decoded publication. SHA-256: 6493555d200d0b1fbd6e3d846e5ebdbef848aa9808cbb6da31998e03df04803a

Affected ADs
Affected ADs

    (b) None.

Exact source excerpt. Text positions 19568–19597, end exclusive, in the original decoded publication. SHA-256: 027fbc44617399472b6ac4741da3aee18448654374228bcf4fe3f01df6b1539b

Applicability wording · Applicability
Applicability

    (c) This AD applies to The Boeing Company Model 747-100, 747-
100B, 747-100B SUD, 747-200B, 747-200C, 747-200F, 747-300, 747-400, 
747-400D, 747-400F, 747SR, and 747SP series airplanes, certificated 
in any category; as identified in Boeing Alert Service Bulletin 747-
28A2261, dated February 19, 2009.


    Note 1: This AD requires a revision to a certain operator 
maintenance document to include new inspections. Compliance with 
these inspections is required by 14 CFR 43.16 and 91.403(c). For 
airplanes that have been previously modified, altered, or repaired 
in the areas addressed by these limitations, the operator may not be 
able to accomplish the actions described in the revisions. In this 
situation, to comply with 14 CFR 43.16 and 91.403(c), the operator 
must request approval for an alternative method of compliance 
according to paragraph (k) 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.

Exact source excerpt. Text positions 19597–20642, end exclusive, in the original decoded publication. SHA-256: b4c09878a21ae4a83290fcc1b7eeedc5ed0d5fb69f02bc0eb8a96405dfc647a6

Subject
Subject

    (d) Air Transport Association (ATA) of America Code 28: Fuel.

Exact source excerpt. Text positions 20642–20718, end exclusive, in the original decoded publication. SHA-256: 564a3b0bb8d7b5a1810f3275157fec0cd09c337ce3688635ce34abdf3119127f

Unsafe Condition
Unsafe Condition

    (e) This AD results from fuel system reviews conducted by the 
manufacturer. The Federal Aviation Administration is issuing this AD 
to prevent damage to the fuel pumps caused by electrical arcing that 
could introduce an ignition source in the fuel tank which, in 
combination with flammable fuel vapors, could result in a fuel tank 
explosion and consequent loss of the airplane.

Exact source excerpt. Text positions 20718–21123, end exclusive, in the original decoded publication. SHA-256: bdbe384466fd01559f2ce00c801d609a41b58275bdd7216e43de7cdecac96f16

Compliance
Compliance

    (f) You are responsible for having the actions required by this 
AD performed within the compliance times specified, unless the 
actions have already been done.

Exact source excerpt. Text positions 21123–21301, end exclusive, in the original decoded publication. SHA-256: 5877df455dd9912059102bd623ca0638c7e2180c9518aac695b1c2010d0559d2

Replacement
Replacement

    (g) Within 60 months after the effective date of this AD: 
Replace the power control relays for the main tank fuel boost pumps 
and jettison pumps, and the center tank scavenge pump, as 
applicable, with new relays having a ground fault interrupt feature, 
in accordance with the Accomplishment Instructions of Boeing Alert 
Service Bulletin 747-28A2261, dated February 19, 2009.

Exact source excerpt. Text positions 21301–21699, end exclusive, in the original decoded publication. SHA-256: 4be521cee8e6798e5bb83900e767c0034f5f2032c4b88692e08e0f1884bfaf00

Maintenance Program Revision
Maintenance Program Revision

    (h) Concurrently with the actions required by paragraph (g) of 
this AD: Revise the maintenance program by incorporating the 
applicable information in paragraphs (h)(1) and (h)(2) of this AD. 
The inspection interval for airworthiness limitations (AWLs) 28-AWL-
23, 28-AWL-28, and 28-AWL-29 starts on the date the replacement 
required by paragraph (g) of this AD is done.
    (1) For Model 747-400, 747-400D, and 747-400F series airplanes: 
Incorporate new airworthiness limitations 28-AWL-28 and 28-AWL-29 of 
Subsection D, ``AIRWORTHINESS LIMITATIONS--FUEL SYSTEMS,'' of Boeing 
747-400 Maintenance Planning Data (MPD) Document, Document D621U400-
9, Section 9, Revision December 2009. (These AWLs were first 
introduced in Revision October 2007 of the MPD document.) 
Incorporating AWLs 28-AWL-28 and 28-AWL-29 in accordance with 
paragraph (g)(3) of AD 2008-10-06, Amendment 39-15512; or AD 2008-
10-06 R1, Amendment 39-16160; is acceptable for compliance with the 
corresponding requirements specified in this paragraph.
    (2) For Model 747-100, 747-100B, 747-100B SUD, 747-200B, 747-
200C, 747-200F, 747-300, 747SP, and 747SR series airplanes: 
Incorporate new AWL 28-AWL-23 of Subsection D, ``AIRWORTHINESS 
LIMITATIONS--SYSTEMS,'' of Boeing 747-100/200/300/SP Airworthiness 
Limitations

[[Page 38001]]

(AWLs) and Certification Maintenance Requirements (CMRs), Document 
D6-13747-CMR, Revision March 2008. (This AWL was first introduced in 
Revision September 2007 of the AWLs/CMRs document.) Incorporating 
AWL 28-AWL-23 in accordance with paragraph (g) of AD 2008-10-07, 
Amendment 39-15513; or AD 2008-10-07 R1, Amendment 39-16070; is 
acceptable for compliance with the corresponding requirements 
specified in this paragraph.

Exact source excerpt. Text positions 21699–23478, end exclusive, in the original decoded publication. SHA-256: 61eca5fef2ca464daf638be1f36d8cd2e0cbc901ce4626db3b01cdca4de7bf1e

No Alternative Inspection or Inspection Intervals
No Alternative Inspection or Inspection Intervals

    (i) After accomplishing the actions required by paragraph (h) of 
this AD, no alternative inspections or inspection intervals may be 
used, unless the inspections or intervals are approved as an 
alternative method of compliance (AMOC) in accordance with the 
procedures specified in paragraph (k) of this AD.

Exact source excerpt. Text positions 23478–23844, end exclusive, in the original decoded publication. SHA-256: 3d97857cbdd87a05f63c057e2d956658037ace3f31f29bf67ce951e21a83767b

Credit for Actions Done Using Previous Service Information
Credit for Actions Done Using Previous Service Information

    (j) Incorporating new AWLs 28-AWL-28 and 28-AWL-29 of Subsection 
D, ``AIRWORTHINESS LIMITATIONS--FUEL SYSTEMS,'' of Boeing 747-400 
Maintenance Planning Data (MPD) Document, Document D621U400-9, 
Section 9, Revision April 2008; or Revision March 2009; before the 
effective date of this AD is acceptable for compliance with the 
requirements of paragraph (h)(1) of this AD.

Alternative Methods of Compliance (AMOCs)

    (k)(1) The Manager, Seattle Aircraft Certification Office (ACO), 
FAA, has the authority to approve AMOCs for this AD, if requested 
using the procedures found in 14 CFR 39.19. Send information to 
Attn: Georgios Roussos, Aerospace Engineer, Systems and Equipment 
Branch, ANM-130S, FAA, Seattle Aircraft Certification Office, 1601 
Lind Avenue SW., Renton, Washington 98057-3356; telephone (425) 917-
6482; fax (425) 917-6590. Information may be e-mailed to [email protected].
    (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 principal maintenance inspector (PMI) or 
principal avionics inspector (PAI), as appropriate, or lacking a 
principal inspector, your local Flight Standards District Office. 
The AMOC approval letter must specifically reference this AD.

Exact source excerpt. Text positions 23844–25271, end exclusive, in the original decoded publication. SHA-256: c537f4d878d47634da01d2a33ac8ded4e68b0bc94f7dd660e0125c8b511a35a7

Material Incorporated by Reference
Material Incorporated by Reference

    (l) You must use the service information contained in Table 1 of 
this AD to do the actions required by this AD, as applicable, unless 
the AD specifies otherwise.

                                   Table 1--Material Incorporated by Reference
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                       Document                                  Revision                        Date
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Boeing Alert Service Bulletin 747[dash]28A2261.......  Original....................  February 19, 2009
Subsection D, ``AIRWORTHINESS LIMITATIONS--SYSTEMS,''  March 2008..................  March 2008
 of Boeing 747[dash]100/200/300/SP Airworthiness
 Limitations (AWLs) and Certification Maintenance
 Requirements (CMRs), Document D6[dash]13747-CMR.
Subsection D, ``AIRWORTHINESS LIMITATIONS--FUEL        December 2009...............  December 2009
 SYSTEMS,'' of Section 9 of the Boeing 747[dash]400
 Maintenance Planning Data (MPD) Document, Document
 D621U400-9.
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

     (1) The Director of the Federal Register approved the 
incorporation by reference of this service information under 5 
U.S.C. 552(a) and 1 CFR part 51.
    (2) For service information identified in this AD, contact 
Boeing Commercial Airplanes, Attention: Data & Services Management, 
P. O. Box 3707, MC 2H-65, Seattle, Washington 98124-2207; telephone 
206-544-5000, extension 1; fax 206-766-5680; e-mail 
[email protected]; Internet https://www.myboeingfleet.com.
    (3) You may review copies of the service information at the FAA, 
Transport Airplane Directorate, 1601 Lind Avenue SW., Renton, 
Washington. For information on the availability of this material at 
the FAA, call 425-227-1221.
    (4) You may also review copies of the 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, 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 25271–27601, end exclusive, in the original decoded publication. SHA-256: d0a74d9e4a05e986f87d629366947e5c72fa06ae8027b56ef984fbb8eec80f2c

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 2010-13-12 · 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: cb484d493d4a25cc7cfb42606d94df8969564f21022169cc24563d81d8b1237d. Source manifest: f748f401a1cddd3911929d33681bffa7f83cab1dce5107fbb41873cc5012e225.

Official source · 2010-07-01

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 75, Number 126 (Thursday, July 1, 2010)]
[Rules and Regulations]
[Pages 37997-38001]
From the Federal Register Online via the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]
[FR Doc No: 2010-15651]


-----------------------------------------------------------------------

DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION

Federal Aviation Administration

14 CFR Part 39

[Docket No. FAA-2009-0906; Directorate Identifier 2009-NM-075-AD; 
Amendment 39-16343; AD 2010-13-12]
RIN 2120-AA64


Airworthiness Directives; The Boeing Company Model 747-100, 747-
100B, 747-100B SUD, 747-200B, 747-200C, 747-200F, 747-300, 747-400, 
747-400D, 747-400F, 747SR, and 747SP Series Airplanes

AGENCY: Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), DOT.

ACTION: Final rule.

-----------------------------------------------------------------------

SUMMARY: We are adopting a new airworthiness directive (AD) for certain 
Model 747 series airplanes. This AD requires replacing the power 
control relays for the main tank fuel boost pumps and jettison pumps, 
and the center tank scavenge pump, as applicable, with new relays 
having a ground fault interrupt (GFI) feature. This AD also requires 
revising the maintenance program to incorporate Airworthiness 
Limitations (AWLs) 28-AWL-23 (for Model 747-100, 747-100B, 747-100B 
SUD, 747-200B, 747-200C, 747-200F, 747-300, 747SP, and 747SR series 
airplanes), and AWLs 28-AWL-28 and 28-AWL-29 (for Model 747-400, 747-
400D, and 747-400F

[[Page 37998]]

series airplanes). This AD results from fuel system reviews conducted 
by the manufacturer. We are issuing this AD to prevent damage to the 
fuel pumps caused by electrical arcing that could introduce an ignition 
source in the fuel tank, which, in combination with flammable fuel 
vapors, could result in a fuel tank explosion and consequent loss of 
the airplane.

DATES: This AD is effective August 5, 2010.
    The Director of the Federal Register approved the incorporation by 
reference of certain publications listed in the AD as of August 5, 
2010.

ADDRESSES: For service information identified in this AD, contact 
Boeing Commercial Airplanes, Attention: Data & Services Management, P. 
O. Box 3707, MC 2H-65, Seattle, Washington 98124-2207; telephone 206-
544-5000, extension 1; fax 206-766-5680; e-mail [email protected]; 
Internet  https://www.myboeingfleet.com.

Examining the AD Docket

    You may examine the AD docket on the Internet at http://www.regulations.gov; or in person at the Docket Management Facility 
between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m., Monday through Friday, except Federal 
holidays. The AD docket contains this AD, the regulatory evaluation, 
any comments received, and other information. The address for the 
Docket Office (telephone 800-647-5527) is the Document Management 
Facility, U.S. Department of Transportation, Docket Operations, M-30, 
West Building Ground Floor, Room W12-140, 1200 New Jersey Avenue, SE., 
Washington, DC 20590.

FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Georgios Roussos, Aerospace Engineer, 
Systems and Equipment Branch, ANM-130S, FAA, Seattle Aircraft 
Certification Office, 1601 Lind Avenue, SW., Renton, Washington 98057-
3356; telephone (425) 917-6482; fax (425) 917-6590.

SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION:

Discussion

    We issued a notice of proposed rulemaking (NPRM) to amend 14 CFR 
part 39 to include an airworthiness directive (AD) that would apply to 
certain Model 747 series airplanes. That NPRM was published in the 
Federal Register on October 13, 2009 (74 FR 52431). That NPRM proposed 
to require replacing the power control relays for the main tank fuel 
boost pumps and jettison pumps, and the center tank scavenge pump, as 
applicable, with new relays having a ground fault interrupt (GFI) 
feature. That NPRM also proposed to require revising the maintenance 
program to incorporate Airworthiness Limitations (AWLs) 28-AWL-23 (for 
Model 747-100, 747-100B, 747-100B SUD, 747-200B, 747-200C, 747-200F, 
747-300, 747SP, and 747SR series airplanes), and AWLs 28-AWL-28 and 28-
AWL-29 (for Model 747-400, 747-400D, and 747-400F series airplanes).

Relevant Service Information

    For Model 747-400, 747-400D, and 747-400F series airplanes, we have 
reviewed Subsection D, ``AIRWORTHINESS LIMITATIONS--FUEL SYSTEMS,'' of 
Boeing 747-400 Maintenance Planning Data (MPD) Document, Document 
D621U400-9, Section 9, Revision December 2009. This document includes 
the same repetitive inspection (test) to verify continued functionality 
of the GFI relays as did Subsection D, ``AIRWORTHINESS LIMITATIONS--
FUEL SYSTEMS,'' of Boeing 747-400 MPD Document, Document D621U400-9, 
Section 9, Revision April 2008 (which we referred to in the NPRM as an 
appropriate source of service information for incorporation into the 
maintenance program). Revision December 2009 clarifies the effectivity 
for AWL 28-AWL-28. We have revised paragraph (h)(1) of this AD to refer 
to Subsection D, ``AIRWORTHINESS LIMITATIONS--FUEL SYSTEMS,'' of Boeing 
747-400 MPD Document, Document D621U400-9, Section 9, Revision December 
2009. We have also added a new paragraph (j) to this final rule to 
provide credit for operators who have revised their maintenance program 
using Revision April 2008, or Revision March 2009, of Subsection D, 
``AIRWORTHINESS LIMITATIONS--FUEL SYSTEMS,'' of Boeing 747-400 MPD 
Document, Document D621U400-9, Section 9. We have also reidentified 
subsequent paragraphs accordingly.

Comments

    We gave the public the opportunity to participate in developing 
this AD. We considered all of the comments received from the 
commenters.

Request To Extend Compliance Time

    Deutsche Lufthansa AG (Lufthansa) requests that we extend the 
proposed compliance time from 60 months to the intervals specified in 
the latest approved maintenance review board report (MRBR). Further, 
Lufthansa states that it would like to know how the proposed compliance 
time was determined. Lufthansa states that it assumes that the 
probability of a failure is part of the determination of the proposed 
compliance time of 60 months. However, Lufthansa further asserts that 
this compliance time is not in line with its heavy maintenance layover 
schedule, which is based on the latest approved MRBR.
    We do not agree to extend the compliance time. In developing an 
appropriate compliance time for this AD, we considered not only the 
safety implications, but the manufacturer's recommendations, the 
availability of required parts, and the practical aspect of 
accomplishing the actions within an interval of time that corresponds 
to typical scheduled maintenance for affected operators. However, under 
the provisions of paragraph (k) of this AD, we will consider requests 
for approval of an extension of the compliance time if sufficient data 
are submitted to substantiate that the change would provide an 
acceptable level of safety. We have not changed the final rule in this 
regard.

Request To Clarify if Boeing Alert Service Bulletin 747-28A2261 
Terminates Requirements of Previous AD

    Japan Airlines (JAL) requests that we revise the NPRM to clarify 
whether accomplishing the actions specified in Boeing Alert Service 
Bulletin 747-28A2261, dated February 19, 2009, terminates the 
requirements of AD 97-26-07, Amendment 39-10250 (62 FR 65352, December 
12, 1997). JAL states that AD 97-26-07 presently requires repetitive 
inspections of the Number 1 and Number 4 main fuel tank boost pump 
wiring (which runs through the inboard fuel tanks) per Boeing Service 
Bulletin 747-28A2204. JAL asserts that the currently required 
inspection makes sure the wiring is not damaged. JAL also asserts that, 
after operators do the proposed modification, the GFI relays will 
monitor the electrical faults and remove the power from the fuel pump 
immediately to minimize the risk of ignition when wires become damaged. 
JAL states that clarifying the NPRM to identify Boeing Alert Service 
Bulletin 747-28A2261 as terminating action for AD 97-26-07 would save 
operators additional work.
    The FAA acknowledges that both AD 97-26-07 and this AD relate to 
potential electrical system faults in the fuel system. However, the FAA 
does not agree that this AD provides terminating action for the actions 
specified in AD 97-26-07. The Boeing GFI design addresses section 
25.981(a)(3) of the Federal Aviation Regulations (14 CFR 25.981(a)(3)) 
single failure requirement only. However the probability of the GFI 
having a latent failure condition, which would prevent it from 
detecting a fault current and removing power from the

[[Page 37999]]

fuel pump, is not shown to be extremely remote. The GFI does not have 
the ability to verify that fault protection is operational prior to 
application of power to the pump. Potential latent failures in the GFI 
function will be detected via a manual BIT test, which will be 
performed by operators at minimum 4,000 flight-hour maintenance 
intervals. We have made no change to the AD in this regard.

Request To Revise Description in the Relevant Service Information 
Section

    The Boeing Company (Boeing) requests that we revise the Relevant 
Service Information section of the NPRM to specify that the replacement 
given in Boeing Alert Service Bulletin 747-28A2261, dated February 19, 
2009, ``. . . also includes reworking certain wiring and doing an 
operational test of the main tank fuel boost pumps, the main tank 
jettison pumps (if applicable) and the center tank scavenge pump (if 
installed), and new relays.'' Boeing states that the wording in the 
NPRM specifies conducting only the main tank boost pumps and relay 
operational tests, while Boeing Alert Service Bulletin 747-28A2261, 
dated February 19, 2009, specifies operational checks of the main tank 
fuel boost pumps, the main tank jettison pumps, and the center tank 
fuel scavenge pump, as well as tests of the GFI relays, following 
procedures for replacing the relays, and making relevant wiring 
changes.
    We partially agree with Boeing. For the reasons provided by Boeing, 
we do agree that the suggested wording changes to the description of 
Boeing Alert Service Bulletin 747-28A2261, dated February 19, 2009, are 
more accurate. However, we do not agree to revise this final rule in 
this regard. Normally, the Relevant Service Information section of the 
NPRM is not restated in the final rule, unless service information that 
was not described in the NPRM is being added in the final rule (e.g., 
new revisions of a document). In this case, the Relevant Service 
Information section does appear in this final rule to describe a new 
revision of an MPD document being added to this final rule. Although 
the Relevant Service Information section does appear in this final 
rule, the description of Boeing Alert Service Bulletin 747-28A2261, 
dated February 19, 2009, is not restated in that section. We have made 
no change to the final rule in this regard.

Request To Remove Proposed Requirement to Incorporate AWLs

    All Nippon Airways (ANA) requests that we revise the NPRM to remove 
paragraph (h)(1), which proposed to require incorporating AWLs 28-AWL-
28 and 28-AWL-29 into the maintenance program. ANA asserts that 
paragraph (g)(3) of AD 2008-10-06, Amendment 39-15512 (73 FR 25990, May 
8, 2008), already requires incorporation of AWLs 28-AWL-24 through 28-
AWL-29. ANA believes that the proposed requirement is duplicating an 
existing requirement.
    We do not agree to remove paragraph (h)(1) of this AD. We 
acknowledge that paragraph (g)(3) of AD 2008-10-06 does specify 
revising the maintenance program to incorporate AWLs 28-AWL-24 through 
28-AWL-29--as an option. AD 2008-10-06 does not require incorporation 
of AWLs 28-AWL-24 through 28-AWL-29. Therefore, this AD does not 
duplicate a requirement and there is no reason to remove the 
requirement from this AD. However, we have revised paragraph (h)(1) of 
this AD to clarify that revising the maintenance program to include 
AWLs 28-AWL-28 and 28-AWL-29 in accordance with paragraph (g)(3) of AD 
2008-10-06, Amendment 39-15512 (73 FR 25990, May 8, 2008) ; or AD 2008-
10-06 R1, Amendment 39-16160 (75 FR 906, January 7, 2010); is 
acceptable for compliance with the corresponding requirements specified 
in paragraph (h)(1) of this AD.

Request To Allow Later Revisions of Maintenance Planning Data (MPD) 
Document

    United Airlines states that it concurs with the contents of the 
NPRM, but requests that we revise paragraph (h)(1) of the NPRM to allow 
use of later revisions of Section 9 of the Boeing 747-400 MPD Document, 
Document D621U400-9, Revision April 2008. United Airlines did not 
provide justification for this request.
    We understand United Airlines' request and operator's desire to 
have some flexibility in AD compliance actions. However, we cannot 
allow use of later revisions of Section 9 of the Boeing 747-400 MPD 
Document, Document D621U400-9. We cannot use the phrase, ``or later 
FAA-approved revisions,'' in an AD when referring to the service 
document because doing so violates Office of the Federal Register (OFR) 
regulations for approval of materials ``incorporated by reference'' in 
rules. In general terms, we are required by these OFR regulations to 
either publish the service document contents as part of the actual AD 
language; or submit the service document to the OFR for approval as 
``referenced'' material, in which case we may only refer to such 
material in the text of an AD. The AD may refer to the service document 
only if the OFR approved it for ``incorporation by reference.'' To 
allow operators to use later revisions of the referenced document 
(issued after publication of the AD), either we must revise the AD to 
reference specific later revisions, or operators must request approval 
to use later revisions as an alternative method of compliance with this 
AD under the provisions of paragraph (k) of this AD. However, as 
explained previously, we have revised this final rule to refer to 
Subsection D, ``AIRWORTHINESS LIMITATIONS--FUEL SYSTEMS,'' of Boeing 
747-400 MPD Document, Document D621U400-9, Section 9, Revision December 
2009.

Explanation of Additional Changes Made to this AD

    We have revised paragraph (h)(2) of this AD to clarify that 
revising the maintenance program to include AWL 28-AWL-23 in accordance 
with paragraph (g) of AD 2008-10-07, Amendment 39-15513 (73 FR 25977, 
May 8, 2008); or AD 2008-10-07 R1, Amendment 39-16070 (74 FR 56098, 
October 30, 2009); is acceptable for compliance with the corresponding 
requirements specified in paragraph (h)(2) of this AD.
    We have revised this AD to identify the legal name of the 
manufacturer as published in the most recent type certificate data 
sheet for the affected airplane models.

Conclusion

    We reviewed the relevant data, considered the comments received, 
and determined that air safety and the public interest require adopting 
the AD with the changes described previously. We also determined that 
these changes will not increase the economic burden on any operator or 
increase the scope of the AD.

Explanation of Change to Costs of Compliance

    Since issuance of the NPRM, we have increased the labor rate used 
in the Costs of Compliance from $80 per work-hour to $85 per work-hour. 
The Costs of Compliance information, below, reflects this increase in 
the specified hourly labor rate.

Costs of Compliance

    We estimate that this proposed AD would affect 258 airplanes of 
U.S. registry. The following table provides the estimated costs for 
U.S. operators to comply with this AD.

[[Page 38000]]



                                                                 Table--Estimated costs
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                                                                     Number of U.S.-
              Action                     Work hours         Average labor         Parts           Cost per product     registered         Fleet cost
                                                            rate per hour                                               airplanes
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Replacement......................  \1\ 10 to 14..........             $85  \1\ $16,800 to       \1\ $17,650 to                  258  \1\ $4,553,700 to
                                                                            $36,200.             $37,390.                             $9,646,620.
Revision of Airworthiness          1.....................              85  None...............  85.................             258  $21,930.
 Limitations section.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
\1\ Depending on airplane configuration.

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

    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.
    You can find our regulatory evaluation and the estimated costs of 
compliance in the AD Docket.

List of Subjects in 14 CFR Part 39

    Air transportation, Aircraft, Aviation safety, Incorporation by 
reference, Safety.

Adoption of the Amendment

0
Accordingly, under the authority delegated to me by the Administrator, 
the FAA amends 14 CFR part 39 as follows:

PART 39--AIRWORTHINESS DIRECTIVES

0
1. The authority citation for part 39 continues to read as follows:

    Authority:  49 U.S.C. 106(g), 40113, 44701.


Sec.  39.13  [Amended]

0
2. The FAA amends Sec.  39.13 by adding the following new AD:

2010-13-12 The Boeing Company: Amendment 39-16343. Docket No. FAA-
2009-0906; Directorate Identifier 2009-NM-075-AD.

Effective Date

    (a) This airworthiness directive (AD) is effective August 5, 
2010.

Affected ADs

    (b) None.

Applicability

    (c) This AD applies to The Boeing Company Model 747-100, 747-
100B, 747-100B SUD, 747-200B, 747-200C, 747-200F, 747-300, 747-400, 
747-400D, 747-400F, 747SR, and 747SP series airplanes, certificated 
in any category; as identified in Boeing Alert Service Bulletin 747-
28A2261, dated February 19, 2009.


    Note 1: This AD requires a revision to a certain operator 
maintenance document to include new inspections. Compliance with 
these inspections is required by 14 CFR 43.16 and 91.403(c). For 
airplanes that have been previously modified, altered, or repaired 
in the areas addressed by these limitations, the operator may not be 
able to accomplish the actions described in the revisions. In this 
situation, to comply with 14 CFR 43.16 and 91.403(c), the operator 
must request approval for an alternative method of compliance 
according to paragraph (k) 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.

Subject

    (d) Air Transport Association (ATA) of America Code 28: Fuel.

Unsafe Condition

    (e) This AD results from fuel system reviews conducted by the 
manufacturer. The Federal Aviation Administration is issuing this AD 
to prevent damage to the fuel pumps caused by electrical arcing that 
could introduce an ignition source in the fuel tank which, in 
combination with flammable fuel vapors, could result in a fuel tank 
explosion and consequent loss of the airplane.

Compliance

    (f) You are responsible for having the actions required by this 
AD performed within the compliance times specified, unless the 
actions have already been done.

Replacement

    (g) Within 60 months after the effective date of this AD: 
Replace the power control relays for the main tank fuel boost pumps 
and jettison pumps, and the center tank scavenge pump, as 
applicable, with new relays having a ground fault interrupt feature, 
in accordance with the Accomplishment Instructions of Boeing Alert 
Service Bulletin 747-28A2261, dated February 19, 2009.

Maintenance Program Revision

    (h) Concurrently with the actions required by paragraph (g) of 
this AD: Revise the maintenance program by incorporating the 
applicable information in paragraphs (h)(1) and (h)(2) of this AD. 
The inspection interval for airworthiness limitations (AWLs) 28-AWL-
23, 28-AWL-28, and 28-AWL-29 starts on the date the replacement 
required by paragraph (g) of this AD is done.
    (1) For Model 747-400, 747-400D, and 747-400F series airplanes: 
Incorporate new airworthiness limitations 28-AWL-28 and 28-AWL-29 of 
Subsection D, ``AIRWORTHINESS LIMITATIONS--FUEL SYSTEMS,'' of Boeing 
747-400 Maintenance Planning Data (MPD) Document, Document D621U400-
9, Section 9, Revision December 2009. (These AWLs were first 
introduced in Revision October 2007 of the MPD document.) 
Incorporating AWLs 28-AWL-28 and 28-AWL-29 in accordance with 
paragraph (g)(3) of AD 2008-10-06, Amendment 39-15512; or AD 2008-
10-06 R1, Amendment 39-16160; is acceptable for compliance with the 
corresponding requirements specified in this paragraph.
    (2) For Model 747-100, 747-100B, 747-100B SUD, 747-200B, 747-
200C, 747-200F, 747-300, 747SP, and 747SR series airplanes: 
Incorporate new AWL 28-AWL-23 of Subsection D, ``AIRWORTHINESS 
LIMITATIONS--SYSTEMS,'' of Boeing 747-100/200/300/SP Airworthiness 
Limitations

[[Page 38001]]

(AWLs) and Certification Maintenance Requirements (CMRs), Document 
D6-13747-CMR, Revision March 2008. (This AWL was first introduced in 
Revision September 2007 of the AWLs/CMRs document.) Incorporating 
AWL 28-AWL-23 in accordance with paragraph (g) of AD 2008-10-07, 
Amendment 39-15513; or AD 2008-10-07 R1, Amendment 39-16070; is 
acceptable for compliance with the corresponding requirements 
specified in this paragraph.

No Alternative Inspection or Inspection Intervals

    (i) After accomplishing the actions required by paragraph (h) of 
this AD, no alternative inspections or inspection intervals may be 
used, unless the inspections or intervals are approved as an 
alternative method of compliance (AMOC) in accordance with the 
procedures specified in paragraph (k) of this AD.

Credit for Actions Done Using Previous Service Information

    (j) Incorporating new AWLs 28-AWL-28 and 28-AWL-29 of Subsection 
D, ``AIRWORTHINESS LIMITATIONS--FUEL SYSTEMS,'' of Boeing 747-400 
Maintenance Planning Data (MPD) Document, Document D621U400-9, 
Section 9, Revision April 2008; or Revision March 2009; before the 
effective date of this AD is acceptable for compliance with the 
requirements of paragraph (h)(1) of this AD.

Alternative Methods of Compliance (AMOCs)

    (k)(1) The Manager, Seattle Aircraft Certification Office (ACO), 
FAA, has the authority to approve AMOCs for this AD, if requested 
using the procedures found in 14 CFR 39.19. Send information to 
Attn: Georgios Roussos, Aerospace Engineer, Systems and Equipment 
Branch, ANM-130S, FAA, Seattle Aircraft Certification Office, 1601 
Lind Avenue SW., Renton, Washington 98057-3356; telephone (425) 917-
6482; fax (425) 917-6590. Information may be e-mailed to [email protected].
    (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 principal maintenance inspector (PMI) or 
principal avionics inspector (PAI), as appropriate, or lacking a 
principal inspector, your local Flight Standards District Office. 
The AMOC approval letter must specifically reference this AD.

Material Incorporated by Reference

    (l) You must use the service information contained in Table 1 of 
this AD to do the actions required by this AD, as applicable, unless 
the AD specifies otherwise.

                                   Table 1--Material Incorporated by Reference
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                       Document                                  Revision                        Date
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Boeing Alert Service Bulletin 747[dash]28A2261.......  Original....................  February 19, 2009
Subsection D, ``AIRWORTHINESS LIMITATIONS--SYSTEMS,''  March 2008..................  March 2008
 of Boeing 747[dash]100/200/300/SP Airworthiness
 Limitations (AWLs) and Certification Maintenance
 Requirements (CMRs), Document D6[dash]13747-CMR.
Subsection D, ``AIRWORTHINESS LIMITATIONS--FUEL        December 2009...............  December 2009
 SYSTEMS,'' of Section 9 of the Boeing 747[dash]400
 Maintenance Planning Data (MPD) Document, Document
 D621U400-9.
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

     (1) The Director of the Federal Register approved the 
incorporation by reference of this service information under 5 
U.S.C. 552(a) and 1 CFR part 51.
    (2) For service information identified in this AD, contact 
Boeing Commercial Airplanes, Attention: Data & Services Management, 
P. O. Box 3707, MC 2H-65, Seattle, Washington 98124-2207; telephone 
206-544-5000, extension 1; fax 206-766-5680; e-mail 
[email protected]; Internet https://www.myboeingfleet.com.
    (3) You may review copies of the service information at the FAA, 
Transport Airplane Directorate, 1601 Lind Avenue SW., Renton, 
Washington. For information on the availability of this material at 
the FAA, call 425-227-1221.
    (4) You may also review copies of the 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, 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 June 10, 2010.
Jeffrey E. Duven,
Acting Manager, Transport Airplane Directorate, Aircraft Certification 
Service.

[FR Doc. 2010-15651 Filed 6-30-10; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE 4910-13-P


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