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Published 2014-04-03 · Federal Register document 2014-07318

Airworthiness Directives; Airbus Airplanes

Publication summary

We are superseding Airworthiness Directive (AD) 2010-23-12 for certain Airbus Model A330 and Model A340 series airplanes. AD 2010-23- 12 required inspecting to determine the part number for Thales Avionics Angle of Attack (AoA) probes, and replacing any affected probe with a serviceable probe. This new AD adds airplanes to the applicability and, for certain airplanes, requires that those affected probes be replaced. This AD was prompted by reports that the AoA sensors on certain airplanes were modified and re-identified without performing the inspection to determine the part number; therefore, the affected probes were not replaced with serviceable probes. We are issuing this AD to prevent erroneous AoA information and consequent delayed activation or non-activation of the AoA protection systems, which, in combination with flight at a high angle of attack, could result in reduced controllability of the airplane.

Why this record is shown

Source: Federal Register annual FAA metadata. Acquired 2026-09-03T22:23:45.694519+00:00. The title, summary and date are source facts.

Source revision
federal_register_ad_metadata_2014-642efe379108139d
Source row
results[104]
Raw source SHA-256
642efe379108139d70cbf0492188bfdaee07f4da1173b6bc01335f4de404a707

Final-rule publication

Recorded publication clauses

AD identifier printed in this edition
2014-06-10
Effective date printed in this edition
2014-05-08
Read 15 complete recorded clauses
Effective Date
(a) Effective Date

    This airworthiness directive (AD) becomes effective May 8, 2014.

Exact source excerpt. Text positions 14054–14144, end exclusive, in the original decoded publication. SHA-256: c909227abd451cb786505615b2a4a03af33edd09eff3770ee0b278ede457f049

Affected ADs
(b) Affected ADs

    This AD supersedes AD 2010-23-12, Amendment 39-16501 (75 FR 
68698, November 9, 2010).

Exact source excerpt. Text positions 14144–14254, end exclusive, in the original decoded publication. SHA-256: 2660a9577428cbeb5ecce5f3d533507cbfd13cdbfac5c16d1c330f5073fd2c07

Applicability wording · Applicability
(c) Applicability

    This AD applies to Airbus airplanes, certificated in any 
category, as identified in paragraphs (c)(1) and (c)(2) of this AD,
    (1) Model A330-201, A330-202, A330-203, A330-223, A330-223F, 
A330-243, A330-243F, A330-301, A330-302, A330-303, A330-321, A330-
322, A330-323, A330-341, A330-342, and A330-343 airplanes; all 
manufacturer serial numbers.
    (2) Model A340-211, A340-212, A340-213, A340-311, A340-312, 
A340-313, A340-541, and A340-642 airplanes; all manufacturer serial 
numbers.

Exact source excerpt. Text positions 14254–14773, end exclusive, in the original decoded publication. SHA-256: f1d3a44fb985df4af3df1ccf8e5ccf9243b06f5252d2f006fb014f6e83f435b3

Subject
(d) Subject

    Air Transport Association (ATA) of America Code 34: Navigation.

Exact source excerpt. Text positions 14773–14855, end exclusive, in the original decoded publication. SHA-256: 3bdfd535d33d5109e3fcc21aba678a5b6cb3fc5687220dc2436483facbefc921

Reason
(e) Reason

    This AD was prompted by reports that the Angle of Attack (AoA) 
sensors on certain airplanes were modified and re-identified without 
performing the inspection to determine the part number; therefore, 
the affected probes were not replaced with serviceable probes. We 
are issuing this AD to prevent erroneous AoA information and 
consequent delayed activation or non-activation of the AoA 
protection systems, which, in combination with flight at a high 
angle of attack, could result in reduced controllability of the 
airplane.

Exact source excerpt. Text positions 14855–15403, end exclusive, in the original decoded publication. SHA-256: 0c18ba8097b08904721f531207635bb01d68849aef83340bcb5b42b402c2117a

Compliance
(f) Compliance

    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 15403–15581, end exclusive, in the original decoded publication. SHA-256: af3956da952ca797ed39bc4b318e4356f7014ac5b4c12bda0147d37f1ffa6cb8

Retained Inspection of AoA Probes
(g) Retained Inspection of AoA Probes

    This paragraph restates the requirements of paragraph (g) of AD 
2010-23-12, Amendment 39-16501 (75 FR 68698, November 9, 2010). For 
airplanes on which an AoA sensor having part number (P/N) C16291AA 
is installed, except as provided by paragraph (l) of this AD: Within 
3 months after December 14, 2010 (the effective date of AD 2010-23-
12), perform a detailed inspection of the Thales Avionics AoA probes 
having P/N C16291AA for a serial number identification, in 
accordance with the Accomplishment Instructions of the applicable 
service information identified in paragraphs (g)(1), (g)(2), and 
(g)(3) of this AD. A review of airplane maintenance records is 
acceptable in lieu of this inspection if the serial number of the 
AoA probe can be conclusively determined from that review. If no AoA 
probe having P/N C16291AA and a serial number identified in Thales 
Service Bulletin C16291A-34-007, Revision 01, dated December 3, 
2009, is identified during the inspection required by this paragraph 
of this AD, no further action is required by this AD, except as 
provided by paragraph (l) of this AD.
    (1) Airbus Mandatory Service Bulletin A330-34-3232, dated 
January 20, 2010 (for Model A330-200 and A330-300 series airplanes).
    (2) Airbus Mandatory Service Bulletin A340-34-4239, dated 
January 20, 2010 (for Model A340-200 and A340-300 series airplanes).
    (3) Airbus Mandatory Service Bulletin A340-34-5072, dated 
January 20, 2010 (for Model A340-500, and A340-600 series 
airplanes).

Exact source excerpt. Text positions 15581–17133, end exclusive, in the original decoded publication. SHA-256: 732dc60540e7d66f2d2bb938549a8ebf8ac29af802a444d71f9f82a39705c300

Retained Replacement of Identified AoA Probes
(h) Retained Replacement of Identified AoA Probes

    This paragraph restates the requirements of paragraph (h) of AD 
2010-23-12, Amendment 39-16501 (75 FR 68698, November 9, 2010), with 
clarified procedures. If the serial number of the AoA probe 
identified during the inspection required by paragraph (g) of this 
AD corresponds to a suspect AoA probe specified in Thales Service 
Bulletin C16291A-34-007, Revision 01, dated December 3, 2009: At the 
applicable time specified in paragraph (h)(1) or (h)(2) of this AD, 
replace the affected AoA probe with a serviceable AoA probe, in 
accordance with one of the four options and associated 
Accomplishment Instructions specified in the applicable service 
bulletin identified in paragraphs (g)(1), (g)(2), and (g)(3) of this 
AD.
    (1) For airplanes on which Airbus Modification 53368 (back-up 
speed scale) has been embodied in production or Airbus Service 
Bulletin A330-34-3213, Airbus Service Bulletin A340-34-4213, or 
Airbus Service Bulletin A340-34-5060, as applicable, has been 
embodied in service:

[[Page 18625]]

Within 3 months after December 14, 2010 (the effective date of AD 
2010-23-12, Amendment 39-16501 (75 FR 68698, November 9, 2010)).
    (2) For airplanes on which Airbus Modification 53368 (back-up 
speed scale) has not been embodied in production and Airbus Service 
Bulletin A330-34-3213, Airbus Service Bulletin A340-34-4213, or 
Airbus Service Bulletin A340-34-5060, as applicable, has not been 
embodied in service: Within 15 months after December 14, 2010 (the 
effective date of AD 2010-23-12, Amendment 39-16501 (75 FR 68698, 
November 9, 2010)).

Exact source excerpt. Text positions 17133–18771, end exclusive, in the original decoded publication. SHA-256: 1d46d8518cb428e5835a2247a603305158a29e3c709b554d87c8b0f5ac91d916

New Replacement of AoA Probes
(i) New Replacement of AoA Probes

    For airplanes on which an AoA probe having P/N C16291AA or 
C16291AB, with a serial number identified in Thales Service Bulletin 
C16291A-34-007, Revision 04, dated October 11, 2012, is installed, 
except as provided by paragraph (l) of this AD: Within 6 months 
after the effective date of this AD, replace any AoA probe having P/
N C16291AA or C16291AB with a serviceable AoA probe, in accordance 
with the Accomplishment Instructions of the applicable service 
information identified in paragraph (i)(1), (i)(2), or (i)(3) of 
this AD. A review of airplane maintenance records is acceptable for 
compliance with the requirements of this paragraph if the records 
clearly demonstrate that the affected AoA probe has passed the 
inspection specified in Thales Service Bulletin C16291A-34-007, 
Revision 04, dated October 11, 2012.
    (1) Airbus Mandatory Service Bulletin A330-34-3232, Revision 01, 
dated September 17, 2013.
    (2) Airbus Mandatory Service Bulletin A340-34-4239, Revision 01, 
dated September 17, 2013.
    (3) Airbus Mandatory Service Bulletin A340-34-5072, Revision 01, 
dated September 17, 2013.

Exact source excerpt. Text positions 18771–19931, end exclusive, in the original decoded publication. SHA-256: 5c147be289b96ff56a092d55fca39e09337a2c56d70d43fadc1e2f88fefd9a3e

Exception to AD Requirements
(j) Exception to AD Requirements

    Airplanes on which Airbus Modification 58555 (installation of 
AoA sensors with P/N C16291AB) or Airbus Modification 46921 
(installation of AoA sensors with P/N 0861ED) has been embodied in 
production are not affected by the requirements in paragraphs (g), 
(h) and (i) of this AD, provided that no AoA sensor has been 
replaced since first flight.

Exact source excerpt. Text positions 19931–20321, end exclusive, in the original decoded publication. SHA-256: 65c7b737e9fccedb33a63c2c993a5921410f05670e16a26f0d0e3f09fcc4fbea

Credit for Previous Actions
(k) Credit for Previous Actions

    This paragraph provides credit for actions required by paragraph 
(i) of this AD, if those actions were performed before the effective 
date of this AD using the service information identified in 
paragraph (k)(1), (k)(2), or (k)(3) of this AD, as applicable, which 
is not incorporated by reference in this AD.
    (1) Airbus Mandatory Service Bulletin A330-34-3232, dated 
January 20, 2010 (for Model A330-200 and A330-300 series airplanes).
    (2) Airbus Mandatory Service Bulletin A340-34-4239, dated 
January 20, 2010 (for Model A340-200 and A340-300 series airplanes).
    (3) Airbus Mandatory Service Bulletin A340-34-5072, dated 
January 20, 2010 (for Model A340-500, and A340-600 series 
airplanes).

Exact source excerpt. Text positions 20321–21069, end exclusive, in the original decoded publication. SHA-256: 225dbdd093e151c1a4dcc804cc7c97412830952cfd34b1f3a8ad82473d15cc44

Parts Installation Limitations
(l) Parts Installation Limitations

    (1) For airplanes on which an AoA sensor having part number (P/
N) C16291AA is installed: As of December 14, 2010 (the effective 
date of AD 2010-23-12, Amendment 39-16501 (75 FR 68698, November 9, 
2010)) and until the effective date of this AD, no person may 
install, on any airplane, a Thales Avionics AoA probe having P/N 
C16291AA and a serial number identified in Thales Service Bulletin 
C16291A-34-007, Revision 01, dated December 3, 2009, unless the AoA 
is fitted with an inspection label stating that Thales Service 
Bulletin C16291A-34-007, has been accomplished.
    (2) As of the effective date of this AD, no person may install, 
on any airplane, a Thales Avionics AoA probe having P/N C16291AA or 
P/N C16291AB and a serial number identified in Thales Service 
Bulletin C16291A-34-007, Revision 04, dated October 11, 2012, unless 
the AoA is fitted with an inspection label stating that Thales 
Service Bulletin C16291A-34-007, has been accomplished.

Exact source excerpt. Text positions 21069–22078, end exclusive, in the original decoded publication. SHA-256: 749d8bf5bbfef7c4fc66f12cbb000e5545ff5dd835fafaf7e1ef86836d9a7a49

Other FAA AD Provisions
(m) Other FAA AD Provisions

    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, 
WA 98057-3356; telephone (425) 227-1138; fax (425) 227-1149. 
Information may be emailed 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.

Exact source excerpt. Text positions 22078–23531, end exclusive, in the original decoded publication. SHA-256: 858fb7e24483287ee7183a0bd823ad2e7ac2f6b29fe82970a0ecbcddf5b50cf9

Related Information
(n) Related Information

    (1) Refer to Mandatory Continuing Airworthiness Information 
Airworthiness Directive 2013-0068, dated March 15, 2013, for related 
information. You may examine the AD docket on the Internet at http://www.regulations.gov/#!documentDetail;D=FAA-2013-0829-0002.
    (2) Service information identified in this AD that is not 
incorporated by reference may be viewed at the address specified in 
paragraphs (o)(5) and (o)(7) of this AD.

Exact source excerpt. Text positions 23531–23993, end exclusive, in the original decoded publication. SHA-256: 6f92703074a0fe36aa302ada7f6f3b35645c6bd248f13824db1950e9f9d5f9e9

Material Incorporated by Reference
(o) Material Incorporated by Reference

    (1) The Director of the Federal Register approved the 
incorporation by reference (IBR) of the service information listed 
in this paragraph under 5 U.S.C. 552(a) and 1 CFR part 51.
    (2) You must use this service information as applicable to do 
the actions required by this AD, unless this AD specifies otherwise.
    (3) The following service information was approved for IBR on 
May 8, 2014.
    (i) Airbus Mandatory Service Bulletin A330-34-3232, Revision 01, 
dated September 17, 2013.
    (ii) Airbus Mandatory Service Bulletin A340-34-4239, Revision 
01, dated September 17, 2013.
    (iii) Airbus Mandatory Service Bulletin A340-34-5072, Revision 
01, dated September 17, 2013.
    (iv) Thales Service Bulletin C16291A-34-007, Revision 04, dated 
October 11, 2012.
    (4) The following service information was approved for IBR on 
December 14, 2010 (75 FR 68698, November 9, 2010).
    (i) Airbus Mandatory Service Bulletin A330-34-3232, excluding 
Appendix 01, dated January 20, 2010.
    (ii) Airbus Mandatory Service Bulletin A340-34-4239, excluding 
Appendix 01, dated January 20, 2010.
    (iii) Airbus Mandatory Service Bulletin A340-34-5072, excluding 
Appendix 01, dated January 20, 2010.
    (iv) Thales Service Bulletin C16291A-34-007, Revision 01, dated 
December 3, 2009.
    (5) For Airbus 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; email [email protected]; 
Internet http://www.airbus.com.
    (6) For Thales Avionics service information identified in this 
AD, contact Thales--Aerospace Division, 105, avenue du General 
Eisenhower--BP 63647, 31036 Toulouse Cedex 1, France; telephone +33 
(0)5 61 19 65 00; fax +33 (0)5 61 19 66 00; Internet http://www.thalesgroup.com/aerospace.
    (7) You may view this service information at the FAA, Transport 
Airplane Directorate, 1601 Lind Avenue SW., Renton, WA. For 
information on the availability of this material at the FAA, call 
425-227-1221.
    (8) You may view this 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/cfr/ibr-locations.html.

Exact source excerpt. Text positions 23993–26418, end exclusive, in the original decoded publication. SHA-256: a6a3bf0db8e7a15318cf7f7dc6368d01a24085bb1ea3fb81d0a958971a328682

Explicit historical replacement wording

Find all recorded historical references to AD 2014-06-10 · 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: c3a8fd9924c1e4526c2d9cfe280990aa62c1419cc3cd9e51ef2c3aa2dff37688. Source manifest: d3a023bb9828fbe5bcf5187dbe0f013cfbd704acc858251dabe9fc32d0bc9e37.

Official source · 2014-04-03

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 79, Number 64 (Thursday, April 3, 2014)]
[Rules and Regulations]
[Pages 18622-18625]
From the Federal Register Online via the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]
[FR Doc No: 2014-07318]


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

DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION

Federal Aviation Administration

14 CFR Part 39

[Docket No. FAA-2013-0829; Directorate Identifier 2013-NM-085-AD; 
Amendment 39-17814; AD 2014-06-10]
RIN 2120-AA64


Airworthiness Directives; Airbus Airplanes

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

ACTION: Final rule.

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

SUMMARY: We are superseding Airworthiness Directive (AD) 2010-23-12 for 
certain Airbus Model A330 and Model A340 series airplanes. AD 2010-23-
12 required inspecting to determine the part number for Thales Avionics 
Angle of Attack (AoA) probes, and replacing any affected probe with a 
serviceable probe. This new AD adds airplanes to the applicability and, 
for certain airplanes, requires that those affected probes be replaced. 
This AD was prompted by reports that the AoA sensors on certain 
airplanes were modified and re-identified without performing the 
inspection to determine the part number; therefore, the affected probes 
were not replaced with serviceable probes. We are issuing this AD to 
prevent erroneous AoA information and consequent delayed activation or 
non-activation of the AoA protection systems, which, in combination 
with flight at a high angle of attack, could result in reduced 
controllability of the airplane.

DATES: This AD becomes effective May 8, 2014.
    The Director of the Federal Register approved the incorporation by 
reference of certain publications listed in this AD as of May 8, 2014.
    The Director of the Federal Register approved the incorporation by 
reference of certain other publications listed in this AD as of 
December 14, 2010 (75 FR 68698, November 9, 2010).

ADDRESSES: You may examine the AD docket on the Internet at http://www.regulations.gov; or in person at the U.S. Department of 
Transportation, Docket Operations, M-30, West Building Ground Floor, 
Room W12-140, 1200 New Jersey Avenue SE., Washington, DC.
    For Airbus 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; email [email protected]; Internet http://www.airbus.com. You may view this service information at the FAA, 
Transport Airplane Directorate, 1601 Lind Avenue SW., Renton, 
Washington.
    For Thales Avionics service information identified in this AD, 
contact Thales--Aerospace Division, 105, avenue du General Eisenhower--
BP 63647, 31036 Toulouse Cedex 1, France; telephone +33 (0)5 61 19 65 
00; fax +33 (0)5 61 19 66 00; Internet http://www.thalesgroup.com/aerospace. You may view this 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.

FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Vladimir Ulyanov, Aerospace Engineer, 
International Branch, ANM-116, Transport Airplane Directorate, FAA, 
1601 Lind Avenue SW., Renton,

[[Page 18623]]

Washington 98057-3356; telephone (425) 227-1138; fax (425) 227-1149.

SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION:

Discussion

    We issued a notice of proposed rulemaking (NPRM) to amend 14 CFR 
part 39 to supersede AD 2010-23-12, Amendment 39-16501 (75 FR 68698, 
November 9, 2010). AD 2010-23-12 applied to certain Airbus Model A330 
and Model A340 series airplanes. The NPRM published in the Federal 
Register on September 26, 2013 (78 FR 59295). The NPRM was prompted by 
reports that the AoA sensors on certain airplanes were modified and re-
identified without performing the inspection to determine the part 
number; therefore, the affected probes were not replaced with 
serviceable probes. The NPRM proposed to require inspecting to 
determine the part number for Thales Avionics Angle of Attack (AoA) 
probes, and replacing any affected probe with a serviceable probe. We 
are issuing this AD to prevent erroneous AoA information and consequent 
delayed activation or non-activation of the AoA protection systems, 
which, in combination with flight at a high angle of attack, could 
result in reduced controllability of the airplane.
    The European Aviation Safety Agency (EASA), which is the Technical 
Agent for the Member States of the European Community, has issued EASA 
Airworthiness Directive 2013-0068, dated March 15, 2013 (referred to 
after this as the Mandatory Continuing Airworthiness Information, or 
``the MCAI''), to correct an unsafe condition for the specified 
products. The MCAI states:

    During Airbus Final Assembly Line reception flight tests, Angle 
of Attack (AoA) data from two different aeroplanes were found 
inaccurate, which was confirmed by flight data analysis.
    The results of the investigation conducted by Airbus and Thales 
on the removed sensors revealed oil residue between the stator and 
the rotor parts of the AoA vane position resolvers. This oil residue 
was the result of incorrect removal of machining oil during the 
manufacturing process of the AoA resolvers. At low temperatures, 
this oil residue becomes viscous (typically in cruise) causing 
delayed and/or reduced AoA vane movement. Multiple AoA sensors could 
be simultaneously affected, providing incorrect indications of the 
AoA of the aeroplane.
    This condition, if not corrected, could lead to erroneous AoA 
information and consequent delayed activation or non-activation of 
the AoA protection systems which, if during flight at a high angle 
of attack, could result in reduced control of the aeroplane.
    To address this unsafe condition, EASA issued AD 2010-0016R1 
[(http://ad.easa.europa.eu/blob/easa_ad_2013_0068.pdf/AD_2011-0007R1_1)] [which corresponds to FAA AD 2010-23-12, Amendment 39-
16501 (75 FR 68698, November 9, 2010)] to require the identification 
of the serial number (S/N) of each installed Thales Avionics 
(formerly SEXTANT), Part Number (P/N) C16291AA AoA sensor and the 
replacement of all suspect units with serviceable one. EASA AD 2010-
0016R1 also prohibited the (re) installation of these same S/N AoA 
sensors on any aeroplane, unless corrective measures had been 
accomplished.
    Since that [EASA] AD was issued, it was discovered that a part 
of the affected population of AoA sensors may have been modified and 
re-identified from P/N C16291AA to P/N C16291AB, in accordance with 
the instructions of Airbus Service Bulletin (SB) A330-34-3228 or SB 
A340-34-5070, as applicable to aeroplane type, without having passed 
the inspection in accordance with the instructions of Thales 
Avionics SB C16291A-34-007, Revision 01.
    For the reasons described above, this new [EASA] AD retains the 
requirements of EASA AD 2010-0016R1, which is superseded, [adds 
airplanes to the applicability, and requires, for the affected 
population that was not addressed by EASA AD 2010-0016R1, the 
replacement of the suspect units with serviceable ones.

You may examine the MCAI in the AD docket on the Internet at http://www.regulations.gov.

Revised Service Information

    Since the NPRM (78 FR 59295, September 26, 2013) was published, we 
have received the following service information:
    <bullet> Airbus Mandatory Service Bulletin A330-34-3232, Revision 
01, dated September 17, 2013 (for Model A330-200 and A330-300 series 
airplanes);
    <bullet> Airbus Mandatory Service Bulletin A340-34-4239, Revision 
01, dated September 17, 2013 (for Model A340-200 and A340-300 series 
airplanes); and
    <bullet> Airbus Mandatory Service Bulletin A340-34-5072, Revision 
01, dated September 17, 2013 (for Model A340-500, and A340-600 series 
airplanes).

Comments

    We gave the public the opportunity to participate in developing 
this AD. We considered the comment received.

Request To Include Revised Service Information

    Airbus asked that we include the service information identified 
previously under ``Revised Service Information'' as a means of 
compliance for accomplishing the required actions.
    We agree with the commenter and have included this new service 
information in paragraph (i) of this AD. We have also given credit for 
previous revisions of the service information by adding a new paragraph 
(k) to this AD and redesignating subsequent paragraphs accordingly.

Change to Paragraph (g) of This AD

    The NPRM (78 FR 59295, September 26, 2013) contained a 
typographical error in paragraph (g) of the NPRM. The last sentence of 
paragraph (g) of the NPRM referred to ``paragraph (l) of this AD.'' 
Paragraph (l) of the NPRM contained the ``Other FAA AD Provisions'' 
text. The last sentence of paragraph (g) of the NPRM should have 
referred to the ``Parts Installation Limitations'' text, which was in 
paragraph (k) of the NPRM. However, we have not changed the last 
sentence in paragraph (g) of this AD to refer to paragraph (k) of this 
AD, because the reference to paragraph (l) of this AD is now correct. 
As stated previously, a new paragraph (k) was added to this AD and, 
therefore, paragraph (k) of the NPRM is now referred to as paragraph 
(l) in this AD.

Conclusion

    We reviewed the available data, including the comment received, and 
determined that air safety and the public interest require adopting 
this AD with the changes described previously. We have determined that 
these changes:
    <bullet> Are consistent with the intent that was proposed in the 
NPRM (78 FR 59295, September 26, 2013) for correcting the unsafe 
condition; and
    <bullet> Do not add any additional burden upon the public than was 
already proposed in the NPRM (78 FR 59295, September 26, 2013).

Costs of Compliance

    We estimate that this AD affects about 70 products of U.S. 
registry.
    The actions that were required by AD 2010-23-12, Amendment 39-16501 
(75 FR 68698, November 9, 2010), and are retained in this AD take about 
3 work-hours per product, at an average labor rate of $85 per work 
hour. Based on these figures, the estimated cost of the retained 
required actions is $255 per product.
    We estimate that it takes about 9 work-hours per product to comply 
with the new basic requirements of this AD. The average labor rate is 
$85 per work-hour. Required parts cost about $0 per product. Where the 
service information lists required parts costs that are covered under 
warranty, we have assumed that there will be no charge for these parts. 
As we do not control warranty coverage for affected parties, some 
parties may incur costs higher

[[Page 18624]]

than estimated here. Based on these figures, we estimate the cost of 
the AD on U.S. operators to be $53,550, or $765 per product.
    We have received no definitive data that would enable us to provide 
cost estimates for the optional terminating action specified in this 
AD.

Authority for This Rulemaking

    Title 49 of the United States Code specifies the FAA's authority to 
issue rules on aviation safety. Subtitle I, section 106, describes the 
authority of the FAA Administrator. ``Subtitle VII: Aviation 
Programs,'' describes in more detail the scope of the Agency's 
authority.
    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 that 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);
    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.

Examining the AD Docket

    You may examine the AD docket on the Internet at http://www.regulations.gov/#!docketDetail;D=FAA-2013-0597; 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.

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 airworthiness directive (AD) 
2010-23-12, Amendment 39-16501 (75 FR 68698, November 9, 2010), and 
adding the following new AD:

2014-06-10 Airbus: Amendment 39-17814. Docket No. FAA-2013-0829; 
Directorate Identifier 2013-NM-085-AD.

(a) Effective Date

    This airworthiness directive (AD) becomes effective May 8, 2014.

(b) Affected ADs

    This AD supersedes AD 2010-23-12, Amendment 39-16501 (75 FR 
68698, November 9, 2010).

(c) Applicability

    This AD applies to Airbus airplanes, certificated in any 
category, as identified in paragraphs (c)(1) and (c)(2) of this AD,
    (1) Model A330-201, A330-202, A330-203, A330-223, A330-223F, 
A330-243, A330-243F, A330-301, A330-302, A330-303, A330-321, A330-
322, A330-323, A330-341, A330-342, and A330-343 airplanes; all 
manufacturer serial numbers.
    (2) Model A340-211, A340-212, A340-213, A340-311, A340-312, 
A340-313, A340-541, and A340-642 airplanes; all manufacturer serial 
numbers.

(d) Subject

    Air Transport Association (ATA) of America Code 34: Navigation.

(e) Reason

    This AD was prompted by reports that the Angle of Attack (AoA) 
sensors on certain airplanes were modified and re-identified without 
performing the inspection to determine the part number; therefore, 
the affected probes were not replaced with serviceable probes. We 
are issuing this AD to prevent erroneous AoA information and 
consequent delayed activation or non-activation of the AoA 
protection systems, which, in combination with flight at a high 
angle of attack, could result in reduced controllability of the 
airplane.

(f) Compliance

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

(g) Retained Inspection of AoA Probes

    This paragraph restates the requirements of paragraph (g) of AD 
2010-23-12, Amendment 39-16501 (75 FR 68698, November 9, 2010). For 
airplanes on which an AoA sensor having part number (P/N) C16291AA 
is installed, except as provided by paragraph (l) of this AD: Within 
3 months after December 14, 2010 (the effective date of AD 2010-23-
12), perform a detailed inspection of the Thales Avionics AoA probes 
having P/N C16291AA for a serial number identification, in 
accordance with the Accomplishment Instructions of the applicable 
service information identified in paragraphs (g)(1), (g)(2), and 
(g)(3) of this AD. A review of airplane maintenance records is 
acceptable in lieu of this inspection if the serial number of the 
AoA probe can be conclusively determined from that review. If no AoA 
probe having P/N C16291AA and a serial number identified in Thales 
Service Bulletin C16291A-34-007, Revision 01, dated December 3, 
2009, is identified during the inspection required by this paragraph 
of this AD, no further action is required by this AD, except as 
provided by paragraph (l) of this AD.
    (1) Airbus Mandatory Service Bulletin A330-34-3232, dated 
January 20, 2010 (for Model A330-200 and A330-300 series airplanes).
    (2) Airbus Mandatory Service Bulletin A340-34-4239, dated 
January 20, 2010 (for Model A340-200 and A340-300 series airplanes).
    (3) Airbus Mandatory Service Bulletin A340-34-5072, dated 
January 20, 2010 (for Model A340-500, and A340-600 series 
airplanes).

(h) Retained Replacement of Identified AoA Probes

    This paragraph restates the requirements of paragraph (h) of AD 
2010-23-12, Amendment 39-16501 (75 FR 68698, November 9, 2010), with 
clarified procedures. If the serial number of the AoA probe 
identified during the inspection required by paragraph (g) of this 
AD corresponds to a suspect AoA probe specified in Thales Service 
Bulletin C16291A-34-007, Revision 01, dated December 3, 2009: At the 
applicable time specified in paragraph (h)(1) or (h)(2) of this AD, 
replace the affected AoA probe with a serviceable AoA probe, in 
accordance with one of the four options and associated 
Accomplishment Instructions specified in the applicable service 
bulletin identified in paragraphs (g)(1), (g)(2), and (g)(3) of this 
AD.
    (1) For airplanes on which Airbus Modification 53368 (back-up 
speed scale) has been embodied in production or Airbus Service 
Bulletin A330-34-3213, Airbus Service Bulletin A340-34-4213, or 
Airbus Service Bulletin A340-34-5060, as applicable, has been 
embodied in service:

[[Page 18625]]

Within 3 months after December 14, 2010 (the effective date of AD 
2010-23-12, Amendment 39-16501 (75 FR 68698, November 9, 2010)).
    (2) For airplanes on which Airbus Modification 53368 (back-up 
speed scale) has not been embodied in production and Airbus Service 
Bulletin A330-34-3213, Airbus Service Bulletin A340-34-4213, or 
Airbus Service Bulletin A340-34-5060, as applicable, has not been 
embodied in service: Within 15 months after December 14, 2010 (the 
effective date of AD 2010-23-12, Amendment 39-16501 (75 FR 68698, 
November 9, 2010)).

(i) New Replacement of AoA Probes

    For airplanes on which an AoA probe having P/N C16291AA or 
C16291AB, with a serial number identified in Thales Service Bulletin 
C16291A-34-007, Revision 04, dated October 11, 2012, is installed, 
except as provided by paragraph (l) of this AD: Within 6 months 
after the effective date of this AD, replace any AoA probe having P/
N C16291AA or C16291AB with a serviceable AoA probe, in accordance 
with the Accomplishment Instructions of the applicable service 
information identified in paragraph (i)(1), (i)(2), or (i)(3) of 
this AD. A review of airplane maintenance records is acceptable for 
compliance with the requirements of this paragraph if the records 
clearly demonstrate that the affected AoA probe has passed the 
inspection specified in Thales Service Bulletin C16291A-34-007, 
Revision 04, dated October 11, 2012.
    (1) Airbus Mandatory Service Bulletin A330-34-3232, Revision 01, 
dated September 17, 2013.
    (2) Airbus Mandatory Service Bulletin A340-34-4239, Revision 01, 
dated September 17, 2013.
    (3) Airbus Mandatory Service Bulletin A340-34-5072, Revision 01, 
dated September 17, 2013.

(j) Exception to AD Requirements

    Airplanes on which Airbus Modification 58555 (installation of 
AoA sensors with P/N C16291AB) or Airbus Modification 46921 
(installation of AoA sensors with P/N 0861ED) has been embodied in 
production are not affected by the requirements in paragraphs (g), 
(h) and (i) of this AD, provided that no AoA sensor has been 
replaced since first flight.

(k) Credit for Previous Actions

    This paragraph provides credit for actions required by paragraph 
(i) of this AD, if those actions were performed before the effective 
date of this AD using the service information identified in 
paragraph (k)(1), (k)(2), or (k)(3) of this AD, as applicable, which 
is not incorporated by reference in this AD.
    (1) Airbus Mandatory Service Bulletin A330-34-3232, dated 
January 20, 2010 (for Model A330-200 and A330-300 series airplanes).
    (2) Airbus Mandatory Service Bulletin A340-34-4239, dated 
January 20, 2010 (for Model A340-200 and A340-300 series airplanes).
    (3) Airbus Mandatory Service Bulletin A340-34-5072, dated 
January 20, 2010 (for Model A340-500, and A340-600 series 
airplanes).

(l) Parts Installation Limitations

    (1) For airplanes on which an AoA sensor having part number (P/
N) C16291AA is installed: As of December 14, 2010 (the effective 
date of AD 2010-23-12, Amendment 39-16501 (75 FR 68698, November 9, 
2010)) and until the effective date of this AD, no person may 
install, on any airplane, a Thales Avionics AoA probe having P/N 
C16291AA and a serial number identified in Thales Service Bulletin 
C16291A-34-007, Revision 01, dated December 3, 2009, unless the AoA 
is fitted with an inspection label stating that Thales Service 
Bulletin C16291A-34-007, has been accomplished.
    (2) As of the effective date of this AD, no person may install, 
on any airplane, a Thales Avionics AoA probe having P/N C16291AA or 
P/N C16291AB and a serial number identified in Thales Service 
Bulletin C16291A-34-007, Revision 04, dated October 11, 2012, unless 
the AoA is fitted with an inspection label stating that Thales 
Service Bulletin C16291A-34-007, has been accomplished.

(m) Other FAA AD Provisions

    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, 
WA 98057-3356; telephone (425) 227-1138; fax (425) 227-1149. 
Information may be emailed 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.

(n) Related Information

    (1) Refer to Mandatory Continuing Airworthiness Information 
Airworthiness Directive 2013-0068, dated March 15, 2013, for related 
information. You may examine the AD docket on the Internet at http://www.regulations.gov/#!documentDetail;D=FAA-2013-0829-0002.
    (2) Service information identified in this AD that is not 
incorporated by reference may be viewed at the address specified in 
paragraphs (o)(5) and (o)(7) of this AD.

(o) Material Incorporated by Reference

    (1) The Director of the Federal Register approved the 
incorporation by reference (IBR) of the service information listed 
in this paragraph under 5 U.S.C. 552(a) and 1 CFR part 51.
    (2) You must use this service information as applicable to do 
the actions required by this AD, unless this AD specifies otherwise.
    (3) The following service information was approved for IBR on 
May 8, 2014.
    (i) Airbus Mandatory Service Bulletin A330-34-3232, Revision 01, 
dated September 17, 2013.
    (ii) Airbus Mandatory Service Bulletin A340-34-4239, Revision 
01, dated September 17, 2013.
    (iii) Airbus Mandatory Service Bulletin A340-34-5072, Revision 
01, dated September 17, 2013.
    (iv) Thales Service Bulletin C16291A-34-007, Revision 04, dated 
October 11, 2012.
    (4) The following service information was approved for IBR on 
December 14, 2010 (75 FR 68698, November 9, 2010).
    (i) Airbus Mandatory Service Bulletin A330-34-3232, excluding 
Appendix 01, dated January 20, 2010.
    (ii) Airbus Mandatory Service Bulletin A340-34-4239, excluding 
Appendix 01, dated January 20, 2010.
    (iii) Airbus Mandatory Service Bulletin A340-34-5072, excluding 
Appendix 01, dated January 20, 2010.
    (iv) Thales Service Bulletin C16291A-34-007, Revision 01, dated 
December 3, 2009.
    (5) For Airbus 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; email [email protected]; 
Internet http://www.airbus.com.
    (6) For Thales Avionics service information identified in this 
AD, contact Thales--Aerospace Division, 105, avenue du General 
Eisenhower--BP 63647, 31036 Toulouse Cedex 1, France; telephone +33 
(0)5 61 19 65 00; fax +33 (0)5 61 19 66 00; Internet http://www.thalesgroup.com/aerospace.
    (7) You may view this service information at the FAA, Transport 
Airplane Directorate, 1601 Lind Avenue SW., Renton, WA. For 
information on the availability of this material at the FAA, call 
425-227-1221.
    (8) You may view this 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/cfr/ibr-locations.html.

    Issued in Renton, Washington, on March 17, 2014.
Dionne Palermo,
Acting Manager, Transport Airplane Directorate, Aircraft Certification 
Service.
[FR Doc. 2014-07318 Filed 4-2-14; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE 4910-13-P


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