Published 2015-11-20 · Federal Register document 2015-28891
Airworthiness Directives; The Boeing Company Airplanes
Publication summary
We are adopting a new airworthiness directive (AD) for certain The Boeing Company Model 747-100, 747-100B, 747-100B SUD, 747-200B, 747-300, 747SR, and 747SP series airplanes. This AD was prompted by an evaluation by the design approval holder (DAH) indicating that certain fuselage skin lap joints are subject to widespread fatigue damage (WFD). This AD requires repetitive post-modification inspections for cracking of the skin or internal doubler along the edge fastener rows of the modification, and repair if necessary. We are issuing this AD to detect and correct fatigue cracking in certain fuselage skin lap joints, which could result in rapid depressurization of the airplane.
Why this record is shown
Source: Federal Register annual FAA metadata. Acquired 2026-09-03T22:23:48.517946+00:00. The title, summary and date are source facts.
- Source revision
- federal_register_ad_metadata_2015-3bb842c840a7e6e6
- Source row
- results[278]
- Raw source SHA-256
- 3bb842c840a7e6e6e43779ca68008e1e63ad8287ad840c3a981d1f66a934b14b
Final-rule publication
Recorded publication clauses
- AD identifier printed in this edition
- 2015-23-11
- Effective date printed in this edition
- 2015-12-28
Read 16 complete recorded clauses
Effective Date
(a) Effective Date
This AD is effective December 28, 2015.
Exact source excerpt. Text positions 16440–16505, end exclusive, in the original decoded publication. SHA-256: 29490ee47642a41859235376ccf891456966c9e8dc25bf3eb54c723b5abfd0c2
Affected ADs
(b) Affected ADs
None.
Exact source excerpt. Text positions 16505–16534, end exclusive, in the original decoded publication. SHA-256: 871a4afc60ceeae06e8010585055188633d616078500c45937092bfe892239c0
Applicability wording · Applicability
(c) Applicability
This AD applies to The Boeing Company Model 747-100, 747-100B,
747-100B SUD, 747-200B, 747-300, 747SR, and 747SP series airplanes,
certificated in any category, as identified in Boeing Alert Service
Bulletin 747-53A2367, Revision 5, dated July 8, 2014.
Exact source excerpt. Text positions 16534–16814, end exclusive, in the original decoded publication. SHA-256: c9c21653b3b845a0f78fea4ae2877c036e911d5338f27024b983ec33894ef71f
Subject
(d) Subject
Air Transport Association (ATA) of America Code 53, Fuselage.
Exact source excerpt. Text positions 16814–16894, end exclusive, in the original decoded publication. SHA-256: 297e69b8a6e159f28612e8bd82a91daa2fd8fd1d9d38af67161f67738908fa6c
Unsafe Condition
(e) Unsafe Condition
This AD was prompted by an evaluation by the design approval
holder indicating that certain fuselage skin lap joints are subject
to widespread fatigue damage. We are issuing this AD to detect and
correct fatigue cracking in certain fuselage skin lap joints, which
could result in rapid depressurization of the airplane.
Exact source excerpt. Text positions 16894–17245, end exclusive, in the original decoded publication. SHA-256: ac2ced1c9b95f9d6862f9b594e5534380e82eeeac08c75195f2c017bb878e375
Compliance
(f) Compliance
Comply with this AD within the compliance times specified,
unless already done.
Exact source excerpt. Text positions 17245–17347, end exclusive, in the original decoded publication. SHA-256: 00fbfa31932483f627d0ce0a11cbd2e35e15d9231842b91ac85623ce533912d3
Repetitive Post-Modification Inspections for Airplane Groups 1 Through 3, 7, and 8
(g) Repetitive Post-Modification Inspections for Airplane Groups 1
Through 3, 7, and 8
For airplanes identified as Groups 1 through 3, 7, and 8 in
Boeing Alert Service Bulletin 747-53A2367, Revision 5, dated July 8,
2014: Except as provided by paragraph (m) of this AD, at the
applicable time specified in table 3 of paragraph 1.E.,
``Compliance,'' of Boeing Alert Service Bulletin 747-53A2367,
Revision 5, dated July 8, 2014, do internal detailed and surface
high frequency eddy current (HFEC) inspections for cracks in the
skin and internal doubler along the edge fastener rows of the
modification, in accordance with the Accomplishment Instructions of
Boeing Alert Service Bulletin 747-53A2367, Revision 5, dated July 8,
2014. In unrepaired areas, repeat the internal detailed and surface
HFEC inspections for cracks in the skin or internal doubler along
the edge fastener rows of the modification thereafter at the
applicable intervals specified in paragraph 1.E., ``Compliance,'' of
Boeing Alert Service Bulletin 747-53A2367, Revision 5, dated July 8,
2014.
Exact source excerpt. Text positions 17347–18432, end exclusive, in the original decoded publication. SHA-256: 34e45ae22dc400b4afd4d44dc92e282e4c4fa05215c4eb36d972ba77bd346ea2
Initial Post-Modification Inspections for Airplane Groups 4 Through 6, and 9 Through 11, With External Doublers Installed as Specified in Boeing Service Bulletin 747-53-2272
(h) Initial Post-Modification Inspections for Airplane Groups 4 Through
6, and 9 Through 11, With External Doublers Installed as Specified in
Boeing Service Bulletin 747-53-2272
For airplanes identified as Groups 4 through 6, and 9 through
11, in Boeing Alert Service Bulletin 747-53A2367, Revision 5, dated
July 8, 2014, with external doublers installed as specified in
Boeing Service Bulletin 747-53-2272: Except as provided by paragraph
(m) of this AD, at the applicable time specified in table 4 of
paragraph 1.E., ``Compliance,'' of Boeing Alert Service Bulletin
747-53A2367, Revision 5, dated July 8, 2014, do external detailed,
low frequency eddy current (LFEC), and HFEC inspections for cracks
in the skin and external doubler, in accordance with the
Accomplishment Instructions of Boeing Alert Service Bulletin 747-
53A2367, Revision 5, dated July 8, 2014.
Exact source excerpt. Text positions 18432–19315, end exclusive, in the original decoded publication. SHA-256: 12ad00de3d84962eebee5f7be7632ae87517f800c980e0a611343fd00f91091d
Repetitive Post-Modification Inspections for Airplane Groups 4 Through 6, and 9 Through 11 With External Doublers Installed as Specified in Boeing Service Bulletin 747-53-2272
(i) Repetitive Post-Modification Inspections for Airplane Groups 4
Through 6, and 9 Through 11 With External Doublers Installed as
Specified in Boeing Service Bulletin 747-53-2272
For airplanes with no crack findings during the inspections
required by paragraph (h) of this AD: Do the applicable actions
required by paragraphs (i)(1) and (i)(2) of this AD.
(1) For airplanes with less than 15,000 flight cycles since
stringer 6 external doublers were installed, as specified in Boeing
Service Bulletin 747-53-2272: At the applicable intervals specified
in table 4 of
[[Page 72576]]
paragraph 1.E., ``Compliance,'' of Boeing Alert Service Bulletin
747-53A2367, Revision 5, dated July 8, 2014, in unrepaired areas,
repeat the external detailed and LFEC inspections for cracks in the
skin, and the external detailed and HFEC inspections for cracks in
the external doubler, in accordance with the Accomplishment
Instructions of Boeing Alert Service Bulletin 747-53A2367, Revision
5, dated July 8, 2014.
(2) For airplanes with 15,000 or more flight cycles since the
stringer 6 external doublers were installed, as specified in Boeing
Service Bulletin 747-53-2272: At the applicable intervals specified
in table 4 of paragraph 1.E., ``Compliance,'' of Boeing Alert
Service Bulletin 747-53A2367, Revision 5, dated July 8, 2014, in
unrepaired areas, do external detailed and LFEC inspections for
cracks in the skin; and do internal and external detailed and HFEC
inspections for cracks in the skin and external doubler; in
accordance with the Accomplishment Instructions of Boeing Alert
Service Bulletin 747-53A2367, Revision 5, dated July 8, 2014.
Exact source excerpt. Text positions 19315–20994, end exclusive, in the original decoded publication. SHA-256: b2641d25ff13b593ed1369941cff9e365d737a2316ae88b7aa62ff2f5334f58b
Repetitive Post-Modification Inspections for Airplane Groups 4 Through 6, and 9 Through 11 With External Doublers Installed as Specified in Boeing Alert Service Bulletin 747-53A2367
(j) Repetitive Post-Modification Inspections for Airplane Groups 4
Through 6, and 9 Through 11 With External Doublers Installed as
Specified in Boeing Alert Service Bulletin 747-53A2367
For airplanes identified as Groups 4 through 6, and 9 through
11, in Boeing Alert Service Bulletin 747-53A2367, Revision 5, dated
July 8, 2014, with external doublers installed as specified in
Boeing Alert Service Bulletin 747-53A2367: Except as provided by
paragraph (m) of this AD, at the applicable time specified in table
5 of paragraph 1.E., ``Compliance,'' of Boeing Alert Service
Bulletin 747-53A2367, Revision 5, dated July 8, 2014, do internal
detailed and surface HFEC inspections for cracks in the skin and
internal doubler along the edge fastener rows of the modification,
in accordance with the Accomplishment Instructions of Boeing Alert
Service Bulletin 747-53A2367, Revision 5, dated July 8, 2014. In
unrepaired areas, repeat the internal detailed and surface HFEC
inspections for cracks in the skin or internal doubler along the
edge fastener rows of the modification thereafter at the applicable
interval specified in paragraph 1.E., ``Compliance,'' of Boeing
Alert Service Bulletin 747-53A2367, Revision 5, dated July 8, 2014.
Exact source excerpt. Text positions 20994–22249, end exclusive, in the original decoded publication. SHA-256: 5faef65033c432ad60680c294e51dfe5e9ab306ed7883346c46b3968545390f9
Repetitive Post-Modification Inspections for Airplane Groups 12 and 13
(k) Repetitive Post-Modification Inspections for Airplane Groups 12 and
13
For airplanes identified as Groups 12 and 13 in Boeing Alert
Service Bulletin 747-53A2367, Revision 5, dated July 8, 2014: Except
as provided by paragraph (m) of this AD, at the applicable time
specified in table 6 of paragraph 1.E., ``Compliance,'' of Boeing
Alert Service Bulletin 747-53A2367, Revision 5, dated July 8, 2014,
do internal detailed and surface HFEC inspections for cracks in the
skin and internal doubler along the edge fastener rows of the
modification, in accordance with the Accomplishment Instructions of
Boeing Alert Service Bulletin 747-53A2367, Revision 5, dated July 8,
2014. In unrepaired areas, repeat the internal detailed and surface
HFEC inspections for cracks in the skin or internal doubler along
the edge fastener rows of the modification thereafter at the
applicable interval specified in paragraph 1.E., ``Compliance,'' of
Boeing Alert Service Bulletin 747-53A2367, Revision 5, dated July 8,
2014.
Exact source excerpt. Text positions 22249–23278, end exclusive, in the original decoded publication. SHA-256: cc3a5f8b48022d412befc65130634f47975eccdc11d95b53bf0e40f9917aff0f
Corrective Actions
(l) Corrective Actions
If any cracking is found during any inspection required by this
AD: Before further flight, repair the cracking using a method
approved in accordance with the procedures specified in paragraph
(n) of this AD.
Exact source excerpt. Text positions 23278–23518, end exclusive, in the original decoded publication. SHA-256: 641ee35d00e325abd502404f5996631680b5f49922e302358788ae5ed68dd3a0
Exception to Boeing Alert Service Bulletin 747-53A2367, Revision 5, Dated July 8, 2014
(m) Exception to Boeing Alert Service Bulletin 747-53A2367, Revision 5,
Dated July 8, 2014
Where paragraph 1.E., ``Compliance,'' of Boeing Alert Service
Bulletin 747-53A2367, Revision 5, dated July 8, 2014, specifies a
compliance time ``after the Revision 5 date of this service
bulletin,'' this AD requires compliance within the specified
compliance time ``after the effective date of this AD.''
Exact source excerpt. Text positions 23518–23926, end exclusive, in the original decoded publication. SHA-256: ae946779fa8031f24ddf1cc02d266e1bd8970726860c9a404fad9ccf2d51a13b
Alternative Methods of Compliance (AMOCs)
(n) Alternative Methods of Compliance (AMOCs)
(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. 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 manager of the ACO, send it to the
attention of the person identified in paragraph (o) of this AD.
Information may be emailed to: [email protected].
(2) 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.
(3) An AMOC that provides an acceptable level of safety may be
used for any repair, modification, or alteration required by this AD
if it is approved by the Boeing Commercial Airplanes Organization
Designation Authorization (ODA) that has been authorized by the
Manager, Seattle ACO, to make those findings. To be approved, the
repair method, modification deviation, or alteration deviation must
meet the certification basis of the airplane and the approval must
specifically refer to this AD.
Exact source excerpt. Text positions 23926–25205, end exclusive, in the original decoded publication. SHA-256: c3e7f91708ca9c1381af84a4405d5147910fb3190662241f50546d72d2b2821c
Related Information
(o) Related Information
For more information about this AD, contact Nathan Weigand,
Aerospace Engineer, Airframe Branch, ANM-120S, FAA, Seattle Aircraft
Certification Office, 1601 Lind Avenue SW., Renton, WA 98057-3356;
phone: 425-917-6428; fax: 425-917-6590; email:
[email protected].
Exact source excerpt. Text positions 25205–25501, end exclusive, in the original decoded publication. SHA-256: e9cffe72f1eb8acabd1cef7f19e6b4bbb2246f09d5f16852219b45e1cd119b08
Material Incorporated by Reference
(p) 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 the AD specifies otherwise.
(i) Boeing Alert Service Bulletin 747-53A2367, Revision 5, dated
July 8, 2014.
(ii) Reserved.
(3) For service information identified in this AD, contact
Boeing Commercial Airplanes, Attention: Data & Services Management,
P.O. Box 3707, MC 2H-65, Seattle, WA 98124-2207; telephone 206-544-
5000, extension 1; fax 206-766-5680; Internet https://www.myboeingfleet.com.
(4) You may view this service information at 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.
(5) 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 25501–26750, end exclusive, in the original decoded publication. SHA-256: 94722538360e52c88359835ac1274ea72fca61be1ed1d50ac604263bb98f3350
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 2015-23-11 · 0 printed reference observations in this pinned collection.
These are observations from one dated publication. Current legal status is unknown; aircraft applicability, installed configuration, compliance and burden require separate evidence. Missing or unparsed conditions remain unknown.
Why these observations are shown
They were extracted offline from the same immutable official HTML source as the complete recorded text. The dated source wording, original text coordinates and exact quote digests are retained. PDF/text agreement and current regulatory effect have not been qualified.
Observation revision: whole-ad-publication-clause-observations-1.0.1. Text SHA-256: 55941492c54131bb5fbbd6d536634377ccbe16ae13264401b01e4d0fac0b0b36. Source manifest: b3c7aa517716b392cb913f62ff0c8adcbdb48d6efbd9c79c7d28fea8d977c771.
Official source · 2015-11-20
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 80, Number 224 (Friday, November 20, 2015)]
[Rules and Regulations]
[Pages 72573-72576]
From the Federal Register Online via the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]
[FR Doc No: 2015-28891]
-----------------------------------------------------------------------
DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION
Federal Aviation Administration
14 CFR Part 39
[Docket No. FAA-2015-1266; Directorate Identifier 2014-NM-151-AD;
Amendment 39-18327; AD 2015-23-11]
RIN 2120-AA64
Airworthiness Directives; The Boeing Company Airplanes
AGENCY: Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), DOT.
ACTION: Final rule.
-----------------------------------------------------------------------
SUMMARY: We are adopting a new airworthiness directive (AD) for certain
The Boeing Company Model 747-100, 747-100B, 747-100B SUD, 747-200B,
747-300, 747SR, and 747SP series airplanes. This AD was prompted by an
evaluation by the design approval holder (DAH) indicating that certain
fuselage skin lap joints are subject to widespread fatigue damage
(WFD). This AD requires repetitive post-modification inspections for
cracking of the skin or internal doubler along the edge fastener rows
of the modification, and repair if necessary. We are issuing this AD to
detect and correct fatigue cracking in certain fuselage skin lap
joints, which could result in rapid depressurization of the airplane.
DATES: This AD is effective December 28, 2015.
The Director of the Federal Register approved the incorporation by
reference of a certain publication listed in this AD as of December 28,
2015.
ADDRESSES: For service information identified in this AD, contact
Boeing Commercial Airplanes, Attention: Data & Services Management, P.
O. Box 3707, MC 2H-65, Seattle, WA 98124-2207; telephone 206-544-5000,
extension 1; fax 206-766-5680; Internet https://www.myboeingfleet.com.
You may view this referenced 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. It
is also available on the Internet at http://www.regulations.gov by
searching for and locating Docket No. FAA-2015-1266.
Examining the AD Docket
You may examine the AD docket on the Internet at http://www.regulations.gov by searching for and locating Docket No. FAA-2015-
1266; 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 (phone: 800-647-
5527) is Docket 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: Nathan Weigand, Aerospace Engineer,
Airframe Branch, ANM-120S, FAA, Seattle Aircraft Certification Office,
1601 Lind Avenue SW., Renton, WA 98057-3356; phone: 425-917-6428; fax:
425-917-6590; email: [email protected].
SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION:
Discussion
We issued a notice of proposed rulemaking (NPRM) to amend 14 CFR
part 39 by adding an AD that would apply to certain The Boeing Company
Model 747-100, 747-100B, 747-100B SUD, 747-200B, 747-300, 747SR, and
747SP series airplanes. The NPRM published in the Federal Register on
May 5, 2015 (80 FR 25630). The NPRM was prompted by an evaluation by
the DAH indicating that certain fuselage skin lap joints are subject to
WFD. The NPRM proposed to require repetitive post-modification
inspections for cracking of the skin or internal doubler along the edge
fastener rows of the modification, and repair if necessary. We are
issuing this AD to detect and correct fatigue cracking in certain
fuselage skin lap joints, which could result in rapid depressurization
of the airplane.
Comments
We gave the public the opportunity to participate in developing
this AD. The following presents the comments received on the NPRM (80
FR 25630, May 5, 2015) and the FAA's response to each comment.
Request To Remove Warranty Statement
Boeing requested that we remove the statement that ``some of the
costs of this proposed AD may be covered under warranty'' in the Costs
of Compliance section of the NPRM (80 FR 25630, May 5, 2015). Boeing
stated that the actions in the NPRM are not covered by warranty.
We agree with the commenter's request. We have revised the Costs of
Compliance section of this final rule accordingly.
Request To Revise Paragraph Headings
Boeing requested that we revise the headings of paragraphs (g),
(h), (j), and (k) of the proposed AD (80 FR 25630, May 5, 2015) by
removing reference to the inspections as ``repetitive'' or ``initial.''
Boeing stated that these revisions will provide consistency among
paragraph headings because paragraphs (g), (j), and (k) of the proposed
AD do not have an initial inspection program, yet paragraph (h) of the
proposed AD has only an initial inspection.
We acknowledge the commenter's concern and agree to clarify the
headings. We do not presume that the term ``repetitive'' necessarily
excludes the initial action. An action cannot be repeated without
accomplishment of the initial action. In addition, in many ADs we use
the term ``repetitive'' actions for paragraphs that include the initial
action and repetitive actions. Paragraphs (g), (j), and (k) of this AD
include both a sentence specifying the initial inspection and a
sentence specifying the repetitive inspections. We have not changed
this AD in this regard.
Request To Clarify Compliance Time
Boeing requested that we clarify the compliance time in paragraphs
(g), (h), (j), and (k) of the proposed AD (80 FR
[[Page 72574]]
25630, May 5, 2015) by revising ``at the applicable time'' to ``at the
applicable time and repeat intervals.'' Boeing stated that these
revisions would clarify that the applicable time also includes the
repeat intervals per Boeing Alert Service Bulletin 747-53A2367,
Revision 5, dated July 8, 2014.
We do not agree to combine the initial inspection and the
repetitive inspection times into one statement because ADs typically
call out initial inspections and repetitive inspections in separate
sentences. Paragraph (h) of this AD specifies only an initial
inspection. Paragraphs (g), (j), and (k) of this AD specifies an
initial inspection and states that the repetitive inspections are for
the unrepaired areas, which are to be done at the applicable times
specified in Boeing Alert Service Bulletin 747-53A2367, Revision 5,
dated July 8, 2014. We have not changed this AD in this regard.
Request To Delete the Unrepaired Area Statement From Paragraphs (g) (j)
and (k) of the Proposed AD (80 FR 25630, May 5, 2015)
Boeing requested that we delete the last sentence in paragraphs
(g), (j), and (k) of the proposed AD (80 FR 25630, May 5, 2015), which
states ``In unrepaired areas, repeat the . . . inspections for cracks .
. . .'' Boeing stated that the sentence is confusing as the unrepaired
area case is actually for no cracks found in the modification area
after doing the inspection as specified in the applicable tables 3, 5,
and 6 of Boeing Alert Service Bulletin 747-53A2367, Revision 5, dated
July 8, 2014. Boeing explained that the proposed AD wording may cause
confusion when information is provided in a different format than the
service bulletin tables.
We do not agree with the commenter's request because the text ``in
unrepaired areas'' matches the text in Boeing Alert Service Bulletin
747-53A2367, Revision 5, dated July 8, 2014. Paragraphs (g), (j), and
(k) of this AD specify doing actions at the applicable time specified
in tables 3, 5, and 6 of paragraph 1.E., ``Compliance,'' of Boeing
Alert Service Bulletin 747-53A2367, Revision 5, dated July 8, 2014. In
these tables, the compliance time is specified for the actions required
for the unrepaired area. We have not revised this AD in this regard.
Request To Combine Paragraphs
Boeing requested that we combine paragraphs (h) and (i) of the
proposed AD (80 FR 25630, May 5, 2015) by deleting paragraph (i) of the
proposed AD and revising paragraph (h) of the proposed AD from ``at the
applicable time'' to ``at the applicable time and repeat intervals.''
Boeing explained that it is confusing to have separate paragraphs
address initial and repetitive inspections for a particular aircraft as
both initial and repetitive inspections are addressed within table 4 of
Boeing Alert Service Bulletin 747-53A2367, Revision 5, dated July 8,
2014.
We acknowledge that table 4 of Boeing Alert Service Bulletin 747-
53A2367, Revision 5, dated July 8, 2014, contains compliance times for
both initial and repetitive inspections. However, we do not agree with
the commenter's request because the AD includes separate paragraphs in
order to clarify the repetitive inspection intervals. For the initial
inspections, table 4 of paragraph 1.E., ``Compliance,'' of Boeing Alert
Service Bulletin 747-53A2367, Revision 5, dated July 8, 2014, specifies
two crack conditions, which are based on the number of fight cycles on
the airplane since stringer 6 external doublers were installed. To aid
the operators in determining which repetitive inspection(s) they are
required to do, this AD provides the repetitive inspections (as
restated from the NPRM (80 FR 25630, May 5, 2015)), depending on the
applicable condition, in separate repetitive inspection paragraphs
(paragraphs (i)(1) and (i)(2) of this AD). We have not changed this AD
in this regard.
Request To Revise External Inspection Wording
Boeing requested that we remove the word ``external'' from
paragraph (h) of the proposed AD (80 FR 25630, May 5, 2015), which
specified ``external detailed, low frequency eddy current, and high
frequency eddy current inspections.'' Boeing explained that if
paragraphs (h) and (i) of the proposed AD are combined, both external
and internal detailed inspections are required. Boeing stated that
removing ``external'' from the inspection direction would therefore
cover all airplane conditions.
As stated previously, we do not agree to combine paragraphs (h) and
(i) of this AD into one paragraph. Therefore, the terminology in
paragraph (h) of this AD matches Boeing Alert Service Bulletin 747-
53A2367, Revision 5, dated July 8, 2014, which specifies doing external
detailed, low frequency eddy current (LFEC), and high frequency eddy
current (HFEC) inspections for cracks. We have not changed this AD in
this regard.
Request To Revise Headings of Paragraphs (h), (i), and (j) of the
Proposed AD (80 FR 25630, May 5, 2015)
Boeing requested that we revise the headings of paragraphs (h),
(i), and (j) of the proposed AD (80 FR 25630, May 5, 2015) by adding a
reference to the applicable service information. Boeing stated that
these changes will add consistency among paragraphs (h), (i), and (j)
of the proposed AD in identifying an installed external doubler
modification.
We agree with the commenter's request. We have revised the headings
of paragraphs (h), (i), and (j) of this AD accordingly.
Request To Correct Typographical Error
Boeing noted that a phrase describing the major action in paragraph
(j) of the proposed AD (80 FR 25630, May 5, 2015) was duplicated and
asked that we correct this.
We agree with the commenter's request. We have revised paragraph
(j) of this AD accordingly.
Conclusion
We reviewed the relevant data, considered the comments received,
and determined that air safety and the public interest require adopting
this AD with the changes described previously and minor editorial
changes. We have determined that these minor changes:
<bullet> [Agr]re consistent with the intent that was proposed in
the NPRM (80 FR 25630, May 5, 2015) for correcting the unsafe
condition; and
<bullet> Do not add any additional burden upon the public than was
already proposed in the NPRM (80 FR 25630, May 5, 2015).
We also determined that these changes will not increase the
economic burden on any operator or increase the scope of this AD.
Related Service Information Under 1 CFR Part 51
We reviewed Boeing Alert Service Bulletin 747-53A2367, Revision 5,
dated July 8, 2014. This service information describes procedures for
inspections and repair for cracks in the skin and doublers along the
edge fastener rows of modifications in the fuselage. This service
information is reasonably available because the interested parties have
access to it through their normal course of business or by the means
identified in the ADDRESSES section of this AD.
[[Page 72575]]
Costs of Compliance
We estimate that this AD affects 50 airplanes of U.S. registry.
We estimate the following costs to comply with this AD:
Estimated Costs
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Cost on U.S.
Action Labor cost Parts cost Cost per product operators
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Post-modification inspection... 124 work-hours x $85 $0 $10,540 per $527,000 per
per hour = $10,540 per inspection cycle. inspection
inspection cycle. cycle.
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
We have received no definitive data that would enable us to provide
cost estimates for the on-condition actions 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
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),
(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 adding the following new airworthiness
directive (AD):
2015-23-11 The Boeing Company: Amendment 39-18327; Docket No. FAA-
2015-1266; Directorate Identifier 2014-NM-151-AD.
(a) Effective Date
This AD is effective December 28, 2015.
(b) Affected ADs
None.
(c) Applicability
This AD applies to The Boeing Company Model 747-100, 747-100B,
747-100B SUD, 747-200B, 747-300, 747SR, and 747SP series airplanes,
certificated in any category, as identified in Boeing Alert Service
Bulletin 747-53A2367, Revision 5, dated July 8, 2014.
(d) Subject
Air Transport Association (ATA) of America Code 53, Fuselage.
(e) Unsafe Condition
This AD was prompted by an evaluation by the design approval
holder indicating that certain fuselage skin lap joints are subject
to widespread fatigue damage. We are issuing this AD to detect and
correct fatigue cracking in certain fuselage skin lap joints, which
could result in rapid depressurization of the airplane.
(f) Compliance
Comply with this AD within the compliance times specified,
unless already done.
(g) Repetitive Post-Modification Inspections for Airplane Groups 1
Through 3, 7, and 8
For airplanes identified as Groups 1 through 3, 7, and 8 in
Boeing Alert Service Bulletin 747-53A2367, Revision 5, dated July 8,
2014: Except as provided by paragraph (m) of this AD, at the
applicable time specified in table 3 of paragraph 1.E.,
``Compliance,'' of Boeing Alert Service Bulletin 747-53A2367,
Revision 5, dated July 8, 2014, do internal detailed and surface
high frequency eddy current (HFEC) inspections for cracks in the
skin and internal doubler along the edge fastener rows of the
modification, in accordance with the Accomplishment Instructions of
Boeing Alert Service Bulletin 747-53A2367, Revision 5, dated July 8,
2014. In unrepaired areas, repeat the internal detailed and surface
HFEC inspections for cracks in the skin or internal doubler along
the edge fastener rows of the modification thereafter at the
applicable intervals specified in paragraph 1.E., ``Compliance,'' of
Boeing Alert Service Bulletin 747-53A2367, Revision 5, dated July 8,
2014.
(h) Initial Post-Modification Inspections for Airplane Groups 4 Through
6, and 9 Through 11, With External Doublers Installed as Specified in
Boeing Service Bulletin 747-53-2272
For airplanes identified as Groups 4 through 6, and 9 through
11, in Boeing Alert Service Bulletin 747-53A2367, Revision 5, dated
July 8, 2014, with external doublers installed as specified in
Boeing Service Bulletin 747-53-2272: Except as provided by paragraph
(m) of this AD, at the applicable time specified in table 4 of
paragraph 1.E., ``Compliance,'' of Boeing Alert Service Bulletin
747-53A2367, Revision 5, dated July 8, 2014, do external detailed,
low frequency eddy current (LFEC), and HFEC inspections for cracks
in the skin and external doubler, in accordance with the
Accomplishment Instructions of Boeing Alert Service Bulletin 747-
53A2367, Revision 5, dated July 8, 2014.
(i) Repetitive Post-Modification Inspections for Airplane Groups 4
Through 6, and 9 Through 11 With External Doublers Installed as
Specified in Boeing Service Bulletin 747-53-2272
For airplanes with no crack findings during the inspections
required by paragraph (h) of this AD: Do the applicable actions
required by paragraphs (i)(1) and (i)(2) of this AD.
(1) For airplanes with less than 15,000 flight cycles since
stringer 6 external doublers were installed, as specified in Boeing
Service Bulletin 747-53-2272: At the applicable intervals specified
in table 4 of
[[Page 72576]]
paragraph 1.E., ``Compliance,'' of Boeing Alert Service Bulletin
747-53A2367, Revision 5, dated July 8, 2014, in unrepaired areas,
repeat the external detailed and LFEC inspections for cracks in the
skin, and the external detailed and HFEC inspections for cracks in
the external doubler, in accordance with the Accomplishment
Instructions of Boeing Alert Service Bulletin 747-53A2367, Revision
5, dated July 8, 2014.
(2) For airplanes with 15,000 or more flight cycles since the
stringer 6 external doublers were installed, as specified in Boeing
Service Bulletin 747-53-2272: At the applicable intervals specified
in table 4 of paragraph 1.E., ``Compliance,'' of Boeing Alert
Service Bulletin 747-53A2367, Revision 5, dated July 8, 2014, in
unrepaired areas, do external detailed and LFEC inspections for
cracks in the skin; and do internal and external detailed and HFEC
inspections for cracks in the skin and external doubler; in
accordance with the Accomplishment Instructions of Boeing Alert
Service Bulletin 747-53A2367, Revision 5, dated July 8, 2014.
(j) Repetitive Post-Modification Inspections for Airplane Groups 4
Through 6, and 9 Through 11 With External Doublers Installed as
Specified in Boeing Alert Service Bulletin 747-53A2367
For airplanes identified as Groups 4 through 6, and 9 through
11, in Boeing Alert Service Bulletin 747-53A2367, Revision 5, dated
July 8, 2014, with external doublers installed as specified in
Boeing Alert Service Bulletin 747-53A2367: Except as provided by
paragraph (m) of this AD, at the applicable time specified in table
5 of paragraph 1.E., ``Compliance,'' of Boeing Alert Service
Bulletin 747-53A2367, Revision 5, dated July 8, 2014, do internal
detailed and surface HFEC inspections for cracks in the skin and
internal doubler along the edge fastener rows of the modification,
in accordance with the Accomplishment Instructions of Boeing Alert
Service Bulletin 747-53A2367, Revision 5, dated July 8, 2014. In
unrepaired areas, repeat the internal detailed and surface HFEC
inspections for cracks in the skin or internal doubler along the
edge fastener rows of the modification thereafter at the applicable
interval specified in paragraph 1.E., ``Compliance,'' of Boeing
Alert Service Bulletin 747-53A2367, Revision 5, dated July 8, 2014.
(k) Repetitive Post-Modification Inspections for Airplane Groups 12 and
13
For airplanes identified as Groups 12 and 13 in Boeing Alert
Service Bulletin 747-53A2367, Revision 5, dated July 8, 2014: Except
as provided by paragraph (m) of this AD, at the applicable time
specified in table 6 of paragraph 1.E., ``Compliance,'' of Boeing
Alert Service Bulletin 747-53A2367, Revision 5, dated July 8, 2014,
do internal detailed and surface HFEC inspections for cracks in the
skin and internal doubler along the edge fastener rows of the
modification, in accordance with the Accomplishment Instructions of
Boeing Alert Service Bulletin 747-53A2367, Revision 5, dated July 8,
2014. In unrepaired areas, repeat the internal detailed and surface
HFEC inspections for cracks in the skin or internal doubler along
the edge fastener rows of the modification thereafter at the
applicable interval specified in paragraph 1.E., ``Compliance,'' of
Boeing Alert Service Bulletin 747-53A2367, Revision 5, dated July 8,
2014.
(l) Corrective Actions
If any cracking is found during any inspection required by this
AD: Before further flight, repair the cracking using a method
approved in accordance with the procedures specified in paragraph
(n) of this AD.
(m) Exception to Boeing Alert Service Bulletin 747-53A2367, Revision 5,
Dated July 8, 2014
Where paragraph 1.E., ``Compliance,'' of Boeing Alert Service
Bulletin 747-53A2367, Revision 5, dated July 8, 2014, specifies a
compliance time ``after the Revision 5 date of this service
bulletin,'' this AD requires compliance within the specified
compliance time ``after the effective date of this AD.''
(n) Alternative Methods of Compliance (AMOCs)
(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. 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 manager of the ACO, send it to the
attention of the person identified in paragraph (o) of this AD.
Information may be emailed to: [email protected].
(2) 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.
(3) An AMOC that provides an acceptable level of safety may be
used for any repair, modification, or alteration required by this AD
if it is approved by the Boeing Commercial Airplanes Organization
Designation Authorization (ODA) that has been authorized by the
Manager, Seattle ACO, to make those findings. To be approved, the
repair method, modification deviation, or alteration deviation must
meet the certification basis of the airplane and the approval must
specifically refer to this AD.
(o) Related Information
For more information about this AD, contact Nathan Weigand,
Aerospace Engineer, Airframe Branch, ANM-120S, FAA, Seattle Aircraft
Certification Office, 1601 Lind Avenue SW., Renton, WA 98057-3356;
phone: 425-917-6428; fax: 425-917-6590; email:
[email protected].
(p) 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 the AD specifies otherwise.
(i) Boeing Alert Service Bulletin 747-53A2367, Revision 5, dated
July 8, 2014.
(ii) Reserved.
(3) For service information identified in this AD, contact
Boeing Commercial Airplanes, Attention: Data & Services Management,
P.O. Box 3707, MC 2H-65, Seattle, WA 98124-2207; telephone 206-544-
5000, extension 1; fax 206-766-5680; Internet https://www.myboeingfleet.com.
(4) You may view this service information at 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.
(5) 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 November 4, 2015.
Dionne Palermo,
Acting Manager, Transport Airplane Directorate, Aircraft Certification
Service.
[FR Doc. 2015-28891 Filed 11-19-15; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE 4910-13-P
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