Airworthiness Directives; Airbus Model A330-200 and -300 Series Airplanes, and Model A340-200 and -300 Series Airplanes

[Federal Register Volume 76, Number 76 (Wednesday, April 20, 2011)]
[Rules and Regulations]
[Pages 22005-22007]
From the Federal Register Online via the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]
[FR Doc No: 2011-9278]



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Federal Register / Vol. 76, No. 76 / Wednesday, April 20, 2011 / 
Rules and Regulations

[[Page 22005]]



DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION

Federal Aviation Administration

14 CFR Part 39

[Docket No. FAA-2011-0311; Directorate Identifier 2010-NM-232-AD; 
Amendment 39-16668; AD 2011-09-06]
RIN 2120-AA64


Airworthiness Directives; Airbus Model A330-200 and -300 Series 
Airplanes, and Model A340-200 and -300 Series Airplanes

AGENCY: Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), Department of 
Transportation (DOT).

ACTION: Final rule; request for comments.

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SUMMARY: We are superseding an existing airworthiness directive (AD) 
for all Model A330 and A340 series airplanes. This AD results from 
mandatory continuing airworthiness information (MCAI) originated by an 
aviation authority of another country to identify and correct an unsafe 
condition on an aviation product. The MCAI describes the unsafe 
condition as:

    At the end of an escape slide deployment test performed on the 
left-hand forward pax [passenger]/crew door of an A330 aeroplane, 
the girt bar attaching the escape slide to the fuselage was found 
not in a locked position and detached from the aeroplane.
* * * * *
    This condition, if not corrected, could result in the slide 
detaching from the door after being inflated which, during an 
emergency, would impair the safe evacuation of occupants, possibly 
resulting in personal injuries.
* * * * *
This AD requires actions that are intended to address the unsafe 
condition described in the MCAI.

DATES: This AD becomes effective May 5, 2011.
    The Director of the Federal Register previously approved the 
incorporation by reference of certain documents listed in the AD as of 
March 19, 2002 (67 FR 6370, February 12, 2002).
    We must receive comments on this AD by June 6, 2011.

ADDRESSES: You may send comments by any of the following methods:
    <bullet> Federal eRulemaking Portal: Go to http://www.regulations.gov. Follow the instructions for submitting comments.
    <bullet> Fax: (202) 493-2251.
    <bullet> Mail: U.S. Department of Transportation, Docket 
Operations, M-30, West Building Ground Floor, Room W12-140, 1200 New 
Jersey Avenue, SE., Washington, DC 20590.
    <bullet> Hand Delivery: U.S. Department of Transportation, Docket 
Operations, M-30, West Building Ground Floor, Room W12-40, 1200 New 
Jersey Avenue, SE., Washington, DC, between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m., Monday 
through Friday, except Federal holidays.

Examining the AD Docket

    You may examine the AD docket on the Internet at http://www.regulations.gov; or in person at the Docket Operations office 
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 street address for 
the Docket Operations office (telephone (800) 647-5527) is in the 
ADDRESSES section. Comments will be available in the AD docket shortly 
after receipt.

FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Vladimir Ulyanov, Aerospace Engineer, 
International Branch, ANM-116, Transport Airplane Directorate, FAA, 
1601 Lind Avenue, SW., Renton, Washington 98057-3356; telephone (425) 
227-1138; fax (425) 227-1149.

SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION:

Discussion

    On January 31, 2002, we issued AD 2002-02-07, Amendment 39-12635 
(67 FR 6370, February 12, 2002). That AD required actions intended to 
address an unsafe condition on all Model A330 and A340 series 
airplanes.
    Since we issued AD 2002-02-07, Airbus has received certification on 
two new models: Model A330-223F and -243F airplanes. We are issuing 
this AD to include them in the requirements of that earlier AD. The 
European Aviation Safety Agency (EASA), which is the Technical Agent 
for the Member States of the European Community, has issued EASA 
Airworthiness Directive 2010-0135, dated July 5, 2010 (referred to 
after this as ``the MCAI''), to correct an unsafe condition for the 
specified products. The MCAI states:

    At the end of an escape slide deployment test performed on the 
left-hand forward pax [passenger]/crew door of an A330 aeroplane, 
the girt bar attaching the escape slide to the fuselage was found 
not in a locked position and detached from the aeroplane. The 
investigation has shown that a component of the slide release 
mechanism (slider) was found unserviceable (spring function 
inoperative due to corrosion or missing).
    This condition, if not corrected, could result in the slide 
detaching from the door after being inflated which, during an 
emergency, would impair the safe evacuation of occupants, possibly 
resulting in personal injuries.
    DGAC [Direction G[eacute]n[eacute]rale de l'Aviation Civile] AD 
F-2001-053R1 and DGAC AD F-2001-052R2 required the Functional check 
and lubrication of door girt bar slider and the associated 
corrective actions.
    This [EASA] AD, which supersedes DGAC AD F-2001-053R1 and DGAC 
AD F-2001-052R2 retaining their requirements, is issued to extend 
the applicability to the newly certified models A330-223F and A330-
243F, and to clarify the actions required by the superseded AD.

    The required actions include repetitive detailed inspection and 
operational checks of the spring function of the emergency exit door 
slider mechanism, and applying corrosion inhibitor. Corrective actions 
include repairing or replacing the slider with a new part. You may 
obtain further information by examining the MCAI in the AD docket.

Changes to the AD

    We have revised the applicability of this AD to coordinate with the 
applicability of the EASA airworthiness directive by specifying the 
model designations as identified in the U.S. Type Certificate Data 
Sheets. Model A340-541 and -642 airplanes that were included in the 
prior FAA AD are not included in this AD, because we have determined 
that those models are not affected by the identified unsafe condition.

FAA's Determination and Requirements of This AD

    This product has been approved by the aviation authority of another

[[Page 22006]]

country, and is approved for operation in the United States. Pursuant 
to our bilateral agreement with the State of Design Authority, we have 
been notified of the unsafe condition described in the MCAI and service 
information referenced above. We are issuing this AD because we 
evaluated all pertinent information and determined the unsafe condition 
exists and is likely to exist or develop on other products of the same 
type design.
    There are no products of this type currently registered in the 
United States. However, this rule is necessary to ensure that the 
described unsafe condition is addressed if any of these products are 
placed on the U.S. Register in the future.

Differences Between the AD and the MCAI or Service Information

    We have reviewed the MCAI and related service information and, in 
general, agree with their substance. But we might have found it 
necessary to use different words from those in the MCAI to ensure the 
AD is clear for U.S. operators and is enforceable. In making these 
changes, we do not intend to differ substantively from the information 
provided in the MCAI and related service information.
    We might also have required different actions in this AD from those 
in the MCAI in order to follow FAA policies. Any such differences are 
highlighted in a Note within the AD.

FAA's Determination of the Effective Date

    Since there are currently no domestic operators of this product, 
notice and opportunity for public comment before issuing this AD are 
unnecessary.

Comments Invited

    This AD is a final rule that involves requirements affecting flight 
safety, and we did not precede it by notice and opportunity for public 
comment. We invite you to send any written relevant data, views, or 
arguments about this AD. Send your comments to an address listed under 
the ADDRESSES section. Include ``Docket No. FAA-2011-0311; Directorate 
Identifier 2010-NM-232-AD'' at the beginning of your comments. We 
specifically invite comments on the overall regulatory, economic, 
environmental, and energy aspects of this AD. We will consider all 
comments received by the closing date and may amend this AD because of 
those comments.
    We will post all comments we receive, without change, to http://www.regulations.gov, including any personal information you provide. We 
will also post a report summarizing each substantive verbal contact we 
receive about this AD.

Authority for This Rulemaking

    Title 49 of the United States Code specifies the FAA's authority to 
issue rules on aviation safety. Subtitle I, section 106, describes the 
authority of the FAA Administrator. ``Subtitle VII: Aviation 
Programs,'' describes in more detail the scope of the Agency's 
authority.
    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 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 this AD:
    (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 affect intrastate aviation in Alaska, and
    (4) Will not have a significant economic impact, positive or 
negative, on a substantial number of small entities under the criteria 
of the Regulatory Flexibility Act.

List of Subjects in 14 CFR Part 39

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

Adoption of the Amendment

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

PART 39--AIRWORTHINESS DIRECTIVES

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

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


Sec.  39.13  [Amended]

0
2. The FAA amends Sec.  39.13 by removing Amendment 39-12635 (67 FR 
6370, February 12, 2002) and adding the following new AD:

2011-09-06 Airbus: Amendment 39-16668. Docket No. FAA-2011-0311; 
Directorate Identifier 2010-NM-232-AD.

Effective Date

    (a) This airworthiness directive (AD) becomes effective May 5, 
2011.

Affected ADs

    (b) This AD supersedes AD 2002-02-07, Amendment 39-12635.

Applicability

    (c) This AD applies to Airbus Model A330-201, -202, -203, -223, 
-223F, -243, -243F, -301, -302, -303, -321, -322, -323, -341, -342, 
and -343 airplanes, and Model A340-211, -212, -213, -311, -312, and 
-313 airplanes; certificated in any category; all manufacturer 
serial numbers.

Subject

    (d) Air Transport Association (ATA) of America Code 52: Doors.

Reason

    (e) The mandatory continued airworthiness information (MCAI) 
states:

    At the end of an escape slide deployment test performed on the 
left-hand forward pax [passenger]/crew door of an A330 aeroplane, 
the girt bar attaching the escape slide to the fuselage was found 
not in a locked position and detached from the aeroplane.
* * * * *
    This condition, if not corrected, could result in the slide 
detaching from the door after being inflated which, during an 
emergency, would impair the safe evacuation of occupants, possibly 
resulting in personal injuries.
* * * * *

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.

Restatement of Requirements of AD 2002-02-07

Inspection

    (g) For all airplanes except Model A330-223F and -243F 
airplanes: Within 18 months since date of manufacture, or within 550 
flight hours after March 19, 2002 (the effective date of AD 2002-02-
07), whichever occurs later: Perform a detailed inspection and an 
operational check of the spring function of the emergency exit door 
slider mechanism, in accordance with Airbus All Operators Telex 
(AOT) A330-52A3063 (for Model A330 series airplanes) or A340-52A4075 
(for Model A340 series airplanes), as applicable, both Revision 01, 
both dated January 3, 2001.

    Note 1: For the purposes of this AD, a detailed inspection is 
defined as: ``An

[[Page 22007]]

intensive visual examination of a specific structural area, system, 
installation, or assembly to detect damage, failure, or 
irregularity. Available lighting is normally supplemented with a 
direct source of good lighting at intensity deemed appropriate by 
the inspector. Inspection aids such as mirror, magnifying lenses, 
etc., may be used. Surface cleaning and elaborate access procedures 
may be required.''

    (1) If all sliders lock properly: Before further flight, apply 
corrosion inhibitor to the sliders, in accordance with Airbus AOT 
A330-52A3063 (for Model A330 series airplanes) or A340-52A4075 (for 
Model A340 series airplanes), as applicable, both Revision 01, both 
dated January 3, 2001. Thereafter, repeat the inspection and 
operational check at least every 18 months.
    (2) If any slider does not lock properly: Before further flight, 
repair the slider or replace it with a new part, and apply corrosion 
inhibitor to the sliders; in accordance with Airbus AOT A330-52A3063 
(for Model A330 series airplanes) or A340-52A4075 (for Model A340 
series airplanes), as applicable, both Revision 01, both dated 
January 3, 2001. Thereafter, repeat the inspection and operational 
check at least every 18 months.

New Requirements of This AD

Inspection

    (h) For Model A330-223F and -243F airplanes: Within 18 months 
since date of manufacture, or within 550 flight hours after the 
effective date of this AD, whichever occurs later: Perform a 
detailed inspection and an operational check of the spring function 
of the emergency exit door slider mechanism, in accordance with 
Airbus AOT A330-52A3063, Revision 01, dated January 3, 2001.
    (1) If all sliders lock properly: Before further flight, apply 
corrosion inhibitor to the sliders, in accordance with Airbus AOT 
A330-52A3063, Revision 01, dated January 3, 2001. Thereafter, repeat 
the inspection and operational check at least every 18 months.
    (2) If any slider does not lock properly: Before further flight, 
repair the slider or replace it with a new part, and apply corrosion 
inhibitor to the sliders; in accordance with Airbus AOT A330-
52A3063, Revision 01, dated January 3, 2001. Thereafter, repeat the 
inspection and operational check at least every 18 months.

FAA AD Differences

    Note 2: This AD differs from the MCAI and/or service information 
as follows: No differences.

Other FAA AD Provisions

    (i) The following provisions also apply to this AD:
    (1) Alternative Methods of Compliance (AMOCs): The Manager, 
International Branch, ANM-116, Transport Airplane Directorate, FAA, 
has the authority to approve AMOCs for this AD, if requested using 
the procedures found in 14 CFR 39.19. In accordance with 14 CFR 
39.19, send your request to your principal inspector or local Flight 
Standards District Office, as appropriate. If sending information 
directly to the International Branch, send it to ATTN: Vladimir 
Ulyanov, Aerospace Engineer, International Branch, ANM-116, 
Transport Airplane Directorate, FAA, 1601 Lind Avenue, SW., Renton, 
Washington 98057-3356; telephone (425) 227-1138; fax (425) 227-1149. 
Information may be e-mailed to: [email protected]. 
Before using any approved AMOC, notify your appropriate principal 
inspector, or lacking a principal inspector, the manager of the 
local flight standards district office/certificate holding district 
office. The AMOC approval letter must specifically reference this 
AD.
    (2) Airworthy Product: For any requirement in this AD to obtain 
corrective actions from a manufacturer or other source, use these 
actions if they are FAA-approved. Corrective actions are considered 
FAA-approved if they are approved by the State of Design Authority 
(or their delegated agent). You are required to assure the product 
is airworthy before it is returned to service.

Related Information

    (j) Refer to Mandatory Continuing Airworthiness Information 
(MCAI) European Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) Airworthiness 
Directive 2010-0135, dated July 5, 2010; and Airbus AOTs A330-
52A3063 and A340-52A4075, both Revision 01, both dated January 3, 
2001; for related information.

Material Incorporated by Reference

    (k) You must use Airbus All Operators Telex A330-52A3063, 
Revision 01, dated January 3, 2001; or Airbus All Operators Telex 
A340-52A4075, Revision 01, dated January 3, 2001; as applicable; to 
do the actions required by this AD, unless the AD specifies 
otherwise.
    (1) The Director of the Federal Register previously approved the 
incorporation by reference of these documents on March 19, 2002 (67 
FR 6370, February 12, 2002).
    (2) For service information identified in this AD, contact 
Airbus SAS--Airworthiness Office--EAL, 1 Rond Point Maurice 
Bellonte, 31707 Blagnac Cedex, France; telephone +33 5 61 93 36 96; 
fax +33 5 61 93 45 80; e-mail [email protected]; 
Internet http://www.airbus.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 April 12, 2011.
Ali Bahrami,
Manager, Transport Airplane Directorate, Aircraft Certification 
Service.
[FR Doc. 2011-9278 Filed 4-19-11; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE 4910-13-P

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