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Published 2015-11-27 · Federal Register document 2015-29851

Airworthiness Directives; Airbus Airplanes

Publication summary

We are adopting a new airworthiness directive (AD) for all Airbus Model A330-200 Freighter, A330-200, A330-300, A340-200, A340- 300, A340-500, and A340-600 series airplanes. This AD was prompted by a report of skin disbonding on a composite side panel of a rudder installed on an A310 airplane. This AD requires a review of the maintenance records of the rudder to determine if any composite side shell panel repair has been done; a thermography inspection limited to the repair areas or complete side shells, as applicable, to identify possible in-service rudder repairs, damages, or fluid ingress; and applicable related investigative and corrective actions. We are issuing this AD to detect and correct the rudder skin disbonding, which could affect the structural integrity of the rudder, and could result in reduced controllability 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[286]
Raw source SHA-256
3bb842c840a7e6e6e43779ca68008e1e63ad8287ad840c3a981d1f66a934b14b

Final-rule publication

Recorded publication clauses

AD identifier printed in this edition
2015-24-01
Effective date printed in this edition
2016-01-04
Read 16 complete recorded clauses
Effective Date
(a) Effective Date

    This AD becomes effective January 4, 2016.

Exact source excerpt. Text positions 15921–15989, end exclusive, in the original decoded publication. SHA-256: 5e5118caea1be89c74532d23f37c01d1d6bbfab2c32b20e793719d3eb56e1399

Affected ADs
(b) Affected ADs

    None.

Exact source excerpt. Text positions 15989–16018, end exclusive, in the original decoded publication. SHA-256: 871a4afc60ceeae06e8010585055188633d616078500c45937092bfe892239c0

Applicability wording · Applicability
(c) Applicability

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

Exact source excerpt. Text positions 16018–16453, end exclusive, in the original decoded publication. SHA-256: 64d3b4f872fb3930ed32f8f929b77dab3ff8a4075571e31e631e339edc958861

Subject
(d) Subject

    Air Transport Association (ATA) of America Code 55, Stabilizers.

Exact source excerpt. Text positions 16453–16536, end exclusive, in the original decoded publication. SHA-256: e76651f310ef6540c30928159fd440108ee0f3b3e1a818ce527a8cf9b5d96299

Reason
(e) Reason

    This AD was prompted by a report of skin disbonding on a 
composite side panel of a rudder installed on an A310 airplane. We 
are issuing this AD to detect and correct the rudder skin 
disbonding, which could affect the structural integrity of the 
rudder, and could result in reduced controllability of the airplane.

Exact source excerpt. Text positions 16536–16871, end exclusive, in the original decoded publication. SHA-256: 8a430f3092c55baa0a2904cf224a7d4c12f63efd2b43a30e25c8b818051c3066

Compliance
(f) Compliance

    Comply with this AD within the compliance times specified, 
unless already done.

Exact source excerpt. Text positions 16871–16973, end exclusive, in the original decoded publication. SHA-256: 00fbfa31932483f627d0ce0a11cbd2e35e15d9231842b91ac85623ce533912d3

Review the Maintenance Records
(g) Review the Maintenance Records

    Within 24 months after the effective date of this AD: Review the 
maintenance records of the rudder to determine if any composite side 
shell panel repair has been accomplished on the rudder since first 
installation on an airplane.
    (1) If, based on the maintenance record review, any repair 
identified in Figure A-GBBAA (Sheet 01 and 02) or Figure A-GBCAA 
(Sheet 02) of the service information specified in paragraphs 
(g)(1)(i) through (g)(1)(iii) of this AD is found: Within 24 months 
after the effective date of this AD, do a thermography inspection 
for repair, damages, and fluid ingress, limited to the repaired 
areas, in accordance with the Accomplishment Instructions of the 
applicable service information specified in paragraphs (g)(1)(i) 
through (g)(1)(iii) of this AD:
    (i) Airbus Service Bulletin A330-55-3043, Revision 1, dated 
August 20, 2014 (for Model A330-201, -202, -203, -223, -223F, -243, 
-243F, -301, -302, -303, -321, -322, -323, -341, -342, and -343 
airplanes).
    (ii) Airbus Service Bulletin A340-55-4039, Revision 1, dated 
August 20, 2014 (for Model A340-211, -212, -213, -311, -312, and -
313 airplanes).
    (iii) Airbus Service Bulletin A340-55-5007, Revision 1, dated 
August 20, 2014 (for Model A340-541 and -642 airplanes).
    (2) For a rudder for which maintenance records are unavailable 
or incomplete, do the actions specified in paragraphs (g)(2)(i) and 
(g)(2)(ii) of this AD:
    (i) No later than 3 months before accomplishment of the 
thermography inspection, as required by paragraph (g)(2)(ii) of this 
AD, contact Airbus to request related rudder manufacturing data by 
submitting the serial number of the rudder to Airbus.
    (ii) Within 24 months after the effective date of this AD: Do a 
thermography inspection for any repair on complete side shells to 
identify and mark any repair, in accordance with the Accomplishment 
Instructions of the applicable service information specified in 
paragraphs (g)(1)(i) through (g)(1)(iii) of this AD.

Exact source excerpt. Text positions 16973–19025, end exclusive, in the original decoded publication. SHA-256: e73a4cb331bacbb0b55a6166298c44be0149fc11035e5f6c608dbe867633eeb6

Related Investigative Actions, Corrective Actions, and Repetitive Inspections
(h) Related Investigative Actions, Corrective Actions, and Repetitive 
Inspections

    After the inspection as required by paragraph (g)(1) or (g)(2) 
of this AD: At the applicable compliance times specified in 
paragraph 1.E., ``Compliance,'' of Tables 3, 4A, 4B, 4C, 4D, and 5 
of the applicable service information specified in paragraphs 
(g)(1)(i) through (g)(1)(iii) of this AD, accomplish all applicable 
related investigative and corrective actions, in accordance with the 
Accomplishment Instructions of the applicable service information 
specified in paragraphs (g)(1)(i) through (g)(1)(iii) of this AD; 
except as provided by paragraphs (i)(1) and (i)(2) of this AD. 
Options provided in the service information specified in paragraphs 
(g)(1)(i) through (g)(1)(iii) of this AD for accomplishing the 
actions are acceptable for the corresponding requirements of this 
paragraph provided that the related investigative and corrective 
actions are done at the applicable times specified in paragraph 
1.E., ``Compliance,'' of the applicable service information 
specified in paragraphs (g)(1)(i) through (g)(1)(iii) of this AD, 
including applicable repetitive inspection intervals, except as 
required by paragraphs (i)(1) and (i)(2) of this AD. Thereafter 
repeat the inspections of the restored and repaired areas at the 
applicable compliance time specified in paragraph 1.E., 
``Compliance,'' of Tables 3, 4A, 4B, 4C, 4D, and 5 of the applicable 
service information specified in paragraphs (g)(1)(i) through 
(g)(1)(iii) of this AD.

Exact source excerpt. Text positions 19025–20576, end exclusive, in the original decoded publication. SHA-256: bbb10637f325369cbd2667f213dbd0790d6c5378f6f2bfe3ea9d4763481138c0

Exceptions to the Service Information
(i) Exceptions to the Service Information

    (1) Where the applicable service information specified in 
paragraphs (g)(1)(i) through (g)(1)(iii) of this AD specifies a 
compliance time relative to the date of the service information, 
this AD requires compliance within the specified compliance time 
after the effective date of this AD.
    (2) If the service information in paragraphs (g)(1)(i) through 
(g)(1)(iii) of this AD specifies to contact Airbus: At the 
applicable compliance times specified in paragraph 1.E., 
``Compliance,'' of the applicable service information specified in 
paragraphs (g)(1)(i) through (g)(1)(iii) of this AD, repair using a 
method approved by the Manager, International Branch, ANM-116, 
Transport Airplane Directorate, FAA; or the European Aviation Safety 
Agency (EASA); or Airbus's EASA Design Organization Approval (DOA).

Exact source excerpt. Text positions 20576–21442, end exclusive, in the original decoded publication. SHA-256: 0654439f6729632909cf2474f7ec71d894bd4fb10fc21ffd012584d195c3623d

Provisions for Certain Airplanes
(j) Provisions for Certain Airplanes

    Airplanes fitted with a rudder having a serial number (S/N) that 
is not in the range of S/N TS-1001 through S/N TS-1043 inclusive, S/
N TS-2001 through S/N TS-2074 inclusive, S/N TS-3000 through S/N TS-
3525 inclusive, S/N TS-4001 through S/N TS-4170 inclusive, S/N TS-
6001 through S/N TS-6246 inclusive, or S/N TS-5001 through S/N TS-
5138 inclusive, are not

[[Page 73963]]

affected by the requirements of paragraphs (g) and (h) of this AD 
provided that it is determined that no repair has been accomplished 
as described in the procedures identified in Figure A-GBBAA (Sheet 
01 and 02) or Figure A-GBCAA (Sheet 02) of the service information 
specified in paragraphs (g)(1)(i) through (g)(1)(iii) of this AD, as 
applicable, on the composite side shell panel of that rudder since 
first installation on an airplane.

Exact source excerpt. Text positions 21442–22309, end exclusive, in the original decoded publication. SHA-256: 2486e8d9cbc5e7abb19fb99af2eefd6303acb4d2aca29cf2fe82742b0cd1309b

Parts Installation Limitations
(k) Parts Installation Limitations

    As of the effective date of this AD, no person may install, on 
any airplane, a rudder, unless the record review and thermography 
inspection specified in paragraph (g) of this AD has been done on 
that rudder and thereafter all applicable related investigative 
actions, repetitive inspections, and corrective actions are done as 
required by paragraph (h) of this AD, except as provided in 
paragraph (j) of this AD.

Exact source excerpt. Text positions 22309–22769, end exclusive, in the original decoded publication. SHA-256: 752a36f8b63327da11eab1929d4425bd09297343d4b1f97baa2e365562b3bb2a

Repair Prohibition
(l) Repair Prohibition

    As of the effective date of this AD, no person may accomplish a 
side shell repair on any rudder using a structure repair manual 
procedure identified in Figure A-GBBAA (Sheet 01 and 02) or Figure 
A-GBCAA (Sheet 02) of the service information specified in 
paragraphs (g)(1)(i) through (g)(1)(iii) of this AD, as applicable, 
on any airplane.

Exact source excerpt. Text positions 22769–23142, end exclusive, in the original decoded publication. SHA-256: 2a6b247844a8e59556aa6e65ec2f3cc2d7ac36ceffeec74dd2b358b29c49bc58

Credit for Previous Actions
(m) Credit for Previous Actions

    This paragraph provides credit for the actions specified in this 
AD, if those actions were performed before the effective date of 
this AD using the service information in paragraphs (m)(1), (m)(2), 
and (m)(3) of this AD.
    (1) Airbus Service Bulletin A330-55-3043, dated February 7, 
2013.
    (2) Airbus Service Bulletin A340-55-4039, dated February 7, 
2013.
    (3) Airbus Service Bulletin A340-55-5007, dated February 7, 
2013.

Exact source excerpt. Text positions 23142–23617, end exclusive, in the original decoded publication. SHA-256: 1e227a3b37dc072c6e2439f882b47abd718cf1ef03a3d3ab5b2d9368817383bb

Other FAA AD Provisions
(n) 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) Contacting the Manufacturer: For any requirement in this AD 
to obtain corrective actions from a manufacturer, the action must be 
accomplished using a method approved by the Manager, International 
Branch, ANM-116, Transport Airplane Directorate, FAA; or the EASA; 
or Airbus's EASA DOA. If approved by the DOA, the approval must 
include the DOA-authorized signature.

Exact source excerpt. Text positions 23617–25055, end exclusive, in the original decoded publication. SHA-256: f539df529b774abc476354bf64ffd2cc3c60ae3b1451cf7972a4b7f48baf67c9

Related Information
(o) Related Information

    (1) Refer to Mandatory Continuing Airworthiness Information 
(MCAI) EASA Airworthiness Directive 2014-0033, dated February 4, 
2014, for related information. This MCAI may be found in the AD 
docket on the Internet at http://www.regulations.gov by searching 
for and locating Docket No. FAA-2014-0928.
    (2) Service information identified in this AD that is not 
incorporated by reference is available at the addresses specified in 
paragraphs (p)(3) and (p)(4) of this AD.

Exact source excerpt. Text positions 25055–25561, end exclusive, in the original decoded publication. SHA-256: 021e9f1b344177c5ac065acf47fbbcdf942a164a2af472be195e9e1ef5e92c7a

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 this AD specifies otherwise.
    (i) Airbus Service Bulletin A330-55-3043, Revision 1, dated 
August 20, 2014.
    (ii) Airbus Service Bulletin A340-55-4039, Revision 1, dated 
August 20, 2014.
    (iii) Airbus Service Bulletin A340-55-5007, Revision 1, dated 
August 20, 2014.
    (3) 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; email [email protected]; 
Internet http://www.airbus.com.
    (4) 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.
    (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 25561–26958, end exclusive, in the original decoded publication. SHA-256: e8ed95c2e4e059f69c01b2a7af5baa17d4906dddc53cdc7995326224bb742246

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 2015-24-01 · 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: e7276f5c3dd0e80f68a0d5729f4e2a067b15018a7c04b40c39a712784bbdb17a. Source manifest: 35c0d15d02f303ddd4313acdb283d494c9f6379b70fb35b671d4c87a98f29336.

Official source · 2015-11-27

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 228 (Friday, November 27, 2015)]
[Rules and Regulations]
[Pages 73960-73963]
From the Federal Register Online via the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]
[FR Doc No: 2015-29851]


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DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION

Federal Aviation Administration

14 CFR Part 39

[Docket No. FAA-2014-0928; Directorate Identifier 2014-NM-040-AD; 
Amendment 39-18333; AD 2015-24-01]
RIN 2120-AA64


Airworthiness Directives; Airbus Airplanes

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

ACTION: Final rule.

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

SUMMARY: We are adopting a new airworthiness directive (AD) for all 
Airbus Model A330-200 Freighter, A330-200, A330-300, A340-200, A340-
300, A340-500, and A340-600 series airplanes. This AD was prompted by a 
report of skin disbonding on a composite side panel of a rudder 
installed on an A310 airplane. This AD requires a review of the 
maintenance records of the rudder to determine if any composite side 
shell panel repair has been done; a thermography inspection limited to 
the repair areas or complete side shells, as applicable, to identify 
possible in-service rudder repairs, damages, or fluid ingress; and 
applicable related investigative and corrective actions. We are issuing 
this AD to detect and correct the rudder skin disbonding, which could 
affect the structural integrity of the rudder, and could result in 
reduced controllability of the airplane.

DATES: This AD becomes effective January 4, 2016.
    The Director of the Federal Register approved the incorporation by 
reference of certain publications listed in this AD as of January 4, 
2016.

ADDRESSES: You may examine the AD docket on the Internet at http://www.regulations.gov/#!docketDetail;D=FAA-2014-0928 or in person at the 
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.
    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; 
email [email protected]; Internet http://www.airbus.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-2014-
0928.

FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: 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.

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 all Airbus Model A330-200 
Freighter, A330-200, A330-300, A340-200, A340-300, A340-500, and A340-
600 series airplanes. The NPRM published in the Federal Register on 
December 29, 2014 (79 FR 77972).
    The European Aviation Safety Agency (EASA), which is the Technical 
Agent for the Member States of the European Union, has issued EASA 
Airworthiness Directive 2014-0033, dated February 4, 2014 (referred to 
after this as the Mandatory Continuing Airworthiness Information, or 
``the MCAI''), to correct an unsafe condition for all Airbus Model 
A330-200 Freighter, A330-200, A330-300, A340-200, A340-300, A340-500, 
and A340-600 series airplanes. The MCAI states:

    A case of skin disbonding was reported on a composite side panel 
of a rudder installed on an A310 aeroplane.
    The investigation results revealed that this disbonding started 
from a skin panel area previously repaired in-service in accordance 
with the Structural Repair Manual (SRM).
    The initial damage has been identified as a disbonding between 
the core and skin of the repaired area. This damage may not be 
visually detectable and likely propagates during normal operation 
due to the variation of pressure during ground-air-ground cycles.
    Composite rudder side shell panels are also installed on A330 
and A340 aeroplanes, which may have been repaired in-service using a 
similar method.
    This condition, if not detected and corrected, could affect the 
structural integrity of the rudder, possibly resulting in reduced 
control of the aeroplane.
    For the reasons described above, this [EASA] AD requires a one-
time thermography inspection of a repaired rudder or a rudder whose 
maintenance records are incomplete and, depending on findings, 
accomplishment of applicable corrective and follow-up actions 
[including repetitive inspections].

    The related investigative actions in this AD include, as 
applicable, an ultrasonic inspection, an elasticity laminate checker 
inspection, a tap test inspection, detailed inspections, and 
thermography inspections, and ventilation of the core. The repetitive 
inspections include detailed inspections and thermography inspections. 
The corrective actions in this AD include repairs.
    The compliance time for the related investigative actions is before 
further flight after accomplishing the applicable inspection required 
by paragraph (g)(1) or (g)(2)(ii) of this AD.
    The intervals for the repetitive inspections are either 900 flight 
hours or 1,000 flight cycles, depending on the applicable conditions 
identified in the service information.
    The compliance times for the corrective actions range, depending on 
the applicable conditions identified in the service information, from 
before further flight to within 4,500 flight cycles but not to exceed 
24 months after accomplishing the applicable inspection required by 
paragraph (g)(1) or (g)(2)(ii) of this AD.
    You may examine the MCAI in the AD docket on the Internet at http://www.regulations.gov/#!documentDetail;D=FAA-2014-0928-0002.

Comments

    We gave the public the opportunity to participate in developing 
this AD. The following presents the comments received on the NPRM (79 
FR 77972, December 29, 2014) and the FAA's response to each comment.

Request To Use the Latest Service Information

    American Airlines (AAL) and Delta Airlines (DAL) requested that we 
revise the NPRM (79 FR 77972, December 29, 2014) to cite the latest 
service information.
    We agree with the commenters' request. Airbus has issued Airbus 
Service Bulletin A330-55-3043, Revision 1, dated August 20, 2014, 
Airbus Service Bulletin A340-55-4039, Revision 1, dated August 20, 
2014, and Airbus Service Bulletin A340-55-5007,

[[Page 73961]]

Revision 1, dated August 20, 2014. The new service information requires 
no additional work, and there are no new actions required by this AD. 
We have updated the AD with the latest service information, and we have 
also added a credit paragraph for previous actions done before the 
effective date of this AD using the service information cited in the 
NPRM (79 FR 77972, December 29, 2014).

Request To Clarify the Structural Repair Manual Repairs That Are 
Affected

    AAL requested that the NPRM (79 FR 77972, December 29, 2014) 
clarify the specific structural repair manual (SRM) repairs that are 
affected. AAL stated that paragraph (j) of the proposed AD states 
specific serial number ranges that are not affected by the AD provided 
that it is determined that no repair has been accomplished on the 
composite side shell panel of that rudder since first installation on 
the airplane. AAL believes this last sentence is too broad and not in 
line with the intent of the service information requirements. AAL 
commented that stating no repair has been accomplished limits 
acceptable repairs covered by an Airbus repair design approval sheet, 
designated engineering representative repairs, and other SRM repairs 
not affected by the improper practices that are the subject of the 
NPRM. AAL stated that paragraphs (g)(1) and paragraph (l) of the 
proposed AD list the affected SRM repairs in the service information 
figures.
    We agree with the commenter's request. We have revised paragraph 
(j) of this AD to clarify the specific repairs accomplished as 
described in the SRM procedures identified in Figure A-GBBAA (Sheet 01 
and 02) or Figure A-GBCAA (Sheet 02) of the service information 
specified in paragraphs (g)(1)(i) through (g)(1)(iii) of this AD, as 
applicable.

Request To Add the Manufacturer Part Number

    DAL requested that the NPRM (79 FR 77972, December 29, 2014) 
include the manufacturer part numbers of the rudder serial numbers 
specified in paragraph (j), which provides only a list of rudder serial 
numbers not affected by the requirements of paragraphs (g) and (h) of 
the proposed AD. DAL commented that in the event of future aircraft 
acquisitions or rudder (component only) purchases, operators will need 
the manufacturer part numbers associated with the listed serial numbers 
to determine AD applicability.
    We disagree with the commenter's request to add part numbers to 
paragraph (j) of this AD. The rudder serial number, regardless of the 
part number, is the key to identifying whether the rudder is not 
affected. Only rudders that have certain serial numbers that meet the 
conditions specified in paragraph (j) of this AD are exempt from the 
actions required by paragraphs (g) and (h) of this AD. Airbus has 
informed us that rudders with the same manufacturer part number might 
or might not be affected; it is the serial number that determines 
whether it is an affected rudder. We have not changed the AD in this 
regard.

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> Are consistent with the intent that was proposed in the 
NPRM (79 FR 77972, December 29, 2014) for correcting the unsafe 
condition; and
    <bullet> Do not add any additional burden upon the public than was 
already proposed in the NPRM (79 FR 77972, December 29, 2014).
    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

    Airbus has issued the following service information:
    <bullet> Airbus Service Bulletin A330-55-3043, Revision 1, dated 
August 20, 2014.
    <bullet> Airbus Service Bulletin A340-55-4039, Revision 1, dated 
August 20, 2014.
    <bullet> Airbus Service Bulletin A340-55-5007, Revision 1, dated 
August 20, 2014.
    The service information describes procedures for a review of the 
maintenance records of the rudder to determine if any composite side 
shell panel repair has been done; a thermography inspection limited to 
the repair areas or complete side shells, as applicable, to identify 
possible in-service rudder repairs, damages, or fluid ingress; and 
applicable related investigative and corrective actions. 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.

Costs of Compliance

    We estimate that this AD affects 55 airplanes of U.S. registry.
    We also estimate that it would take about 45 work-hours per product 
to comply with the basic requirements of this AD. The average labor 
rate is $85 per work-hour. Required parts would cost about $0 per 
product. Based on these figures, we estimate the cost of this AD on 
U.S. operators to be $210,375, or $3,825 per product.
    We have received no definitive data that would enable us to provide 
cost estimates for the on-condition actions specified in this AD.

Paperwork Reduction Act

    A federal agency may not conduct or sponsor, and a person is not 
required to respond to, nor shall a person be subject to penalty for 
failure to comply with a collection of information subject to the 
requirements of the Paperwork Reduction Act unless that collection of 
information displays a current valid OMB control number. The control 
number for the collection of information required by this AD is 2120-
0056. The paperwork cost associated with this AD has been detailed in 
the Costs of Compliance section of this document and includes time for 
reviewing instructions, as well as completing and reviewing the 
collection of information. Therefore, all reporting associated with 
this AD is mandatory. Comments concerning the accuracy of this burden 
and suggestions for reducing the burden should be directed to the FAA 
at 800 Independence Ave. SW., Washington, DC 20591, ATTN: Information 
Collection Clearance Officer, AES-200.

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.

[[Page 73962]]

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-2014-0928; 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 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 adding the following new airworthiness 
directive (AD):

2015-24-01 Airbus: Amendment 39-18333. Docket No. FAA-2014-0928; 
Directorate Identifier 2014-NM-040-AD.

(a) Effective Date

    This AD becomes effective January 4, 2016.

(b) Affected ADs

    None.

(c) Applicability

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

(d) Subject

    Air Transport Association (ATA) of America Code 55, Stabilizers.

(e) Reason

    This AD was prompted by a report of skin disbonding on a 
composite side panel of a rudder installed on an A310 airplane. We 
are issuing this AD to detect and correct the rudder skin 
disbonding, which could affect the structural integrity of the 
rudder, and could result in reduced controllability of the airplane.

(f) Compliance

    Comply with this AD within the compliance times specified, 
unless already done.

(g) Review the Maintenance Records

    Within 24 months after the effective date of this AD: Review the 
maintenance records of the rudder to determine if any composite side 
shell panel repair has been accomplished on the rudder since first 
installation on an airplane.
    (1) If, based on the maintenance record review, any repair 
identified in Figure A-GBBAA (Sheet 01 and 02) or Figure A-GBCAA 
(Sheet 02) of the service information specified in paragraphs 
(g)(1)(i) through (g)(1)(iii) of this AD is found: Within 24 months 
after the effective date of this AD, do a thermography inspection 
for repair, damages, and fluid ingress, limited to the repaired 
areas, in accordance with the Accomplishment Instructions of the 
applicable service information specified in paragraphs (g)(1)(i) 
through (g)(1)(iii) of this AD:
    (i) Airbus Service Bulletin A330-55-3043, Revision 1, dated 
August 20, 2014 (for Model A330-201, -202, -203, -223, -223F, -243, 
-243F, -301, -302, -303, -321, -322, -323, -341, -342, and -343 
airplanes).
    (ii) Airbus Service Bulletin A340-55-4039, Revision 1, dated 
August 20, 2014 (for Model A340-211, -212, -213, -311, -312, and -
313 airplanes).
    (iii) Airbus Service Bulletin A340-55-5007, Revision 1, dated 
August 20, 2014 (for Model A340-541 and -642 airplanes).
    (2) For a rudder for which maintenance records are unavailable 
or incomplete, do the actions specified in paragraphs (g)(2)(i) and 
(g)(2)(ii) of this AD:
    (i) No later than 3 months before accomplishment of the 
thermography inspection, as required by paragraph (g)(2)(ii) of this 
AD, contact Airbus to request related rudder manufacturing data by 
submitting the serial number of the rudder to Airbus.
    (ii) Within 24 months after the effective date of this AD: Do a 
thermography inspection for any repair on complete side shells to 
identify and mark any repair, in accordance with the Accomplishment 
Instructions of the applicable service information specified in 
paragraphs (g)(1)(i) through (g)(1)(iii) of this AD.

(h) Related Investigative Actions, Corrective Actions, and Repetitive 
Inspections

    After the inspection as required by paragraph (g)(1) or (g)(2) 
of this AD: At the applicable compliance times specified in 
paragraph 1.E., ``Compliance,'' of Tables 3, 4A, 4B, 4C, 4D, and 5 
of the applicable service information specified in paragraphs 
(g)(1)(i) through (g)(1)(iii) of this AD, accomplish all applicable 
related investigative and corrective actions, in accordance with the 
Accomplishment Instructions of the applicable service information 
specified in paragraphs (g)(1)(i) through (g)(1)(iii) of this AD; 
except as provided by paragraphs (i)(1) and (i)(2) of this AD. 
Options provided in the service information specified in paragraphs 
(g)(1)(i) through (g)(1)(iii) of this AD for accomplishing the 
actions are acceptable for the corresponding requirements of this 
paragraph provided that the related investigative and corrective 
actions are done at the applicable times specified in paragraph 
1.E., ``Compliance,'' of the applicable service information 
specified in paragraphs (g)(1)(i) through (g)(1)(iii) of this AD, 
including applicable repetitive inspection intervals, except as 
required by paragraphs (i)(1) and (i)(2) of this AD. Thereafter 
repeat the inspections of the restored and repaired areas at the 
applicable compliance time specified in paragraph 1.E., 
``Compliance,'' of Tables 3, 4A, 4B, 4C, 4D, and 5 of the applicable 
service information specified in paragraphs (g)(1)(i) through 
(g)(1)(iii) of this AD.

(i) Exceptions to the Service Information

    (1) Where the applicable service information specified in 
paragraphs (g)(1)(i) through (g)(1)(iii) of this AD specifies a 
compliance time relative to the date of the service information, 
this AD requires compliance within the specified compliance time 
after the effective date of this AD.
    (2) If the service information in paragraphs (g)(1)(i) through 
(g)(1)(iii) of this AD specifies to contact Airbus: At the 
applicable compliance times specified in paragraph 1.E., 
``Compliance,'' of the applicable service information specified in 
paragraphs (g)(1)(i) through (g)(1)(iii) of this AD, repair using a 
method approved by the Manager, International Branch, ANM-116, 
Transport Airplane Directorate, FAA; or the European Aviation Safety 
Agency (EASA); or Airbus's EASA Design Organization Approval (DOA).

(j) Provisions for Certain Airplanes

    Airplanes fitted with a rudder having a serial number (S/N) that 
is not in the range of S/N TS-1001 through S/N TS-1043 inclusive, S/
N TS-2001 through S/N TS-2074 inclusive, S/N TS-3000 through S/N TS-
3525 inclusive, S/N TS-4001 through S/N TS-4170 inclusive, S/N TS-
6001 through S/N TS-6246 inclusive, or S/N TS-5001 through S/N TS-
5138 inclusive, are not

[[Page 73963]]

affected by the requirements of paragraphs (g) and (h) of this AD 
provided that it is determined that no repair has been accomplished 
as described in the procedures identified in Figure A-GBBAA (Sheet 
01 and 02) or Figure A-GBCAA (Sheet 02) of the service information 
specified in paragraphs (g)(1)(i) through (g)(1)(iii) of this AD, as 
applicable, on the composite side shell panel of that rudder since 
first installation on an airplane.

(k) Parts Installation Limitations

    As of the effective date of this AD, no person may install, on 
any airplane, a rudder, unless the record review and thermography 
inspection specified in paragraph (g) of this AD has been done on 
that rudder and thereafter all applicable related investigative 
actions, repetitive inspections, and corrective actions are done as 
required by paragraph (h) of this AD, except as provided in 
paragraph (j) of this AD.

(l) Repair Prohibition

    As of the effective date of this AD, no person may accomplish a 
side shell repair on any rudder using a structure repair manual 
procedure identified in Figure A-GBBAA (Sheet 01 and 02) or Figure 
A-GBCAA (Sheet 02) of the service information specified in 
paragraphs (g)(1)(i) through (g)(1)(iii) of this AD, as applicable, 
on any airplane.

(m) Credit for Previous Actions

    This paragraph provides credit for the actions specified in this 
AD, if those actions were performed before the effective date of 
this AD using the service information in paragraphs (m)(1), (m)(2), 
and (m)(3) of this AD.
    (1) Airbus Service Bulletin A330-55-3043, dated February 7, 
2013.
    (2) Airbus Service Bulletin A340-55-4039, dated February 7, 
2013.
    (3) Airbus Service Bulletin A340-55-5007, dated February 7, 
2013.

(n) 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) Contacting the Manufacturer: For any requirement in this AD 
to obtain corrective actions from a manufacturer, the action must be 
accomplished using a method approved by the Manager, International 
Branch, ANM-116, Transport Airplane Directorate, FAA; or the EASA; 
or Airbus's EASA DOA. If approved by the DOA, the approval must 
include the DOA-authorized signature.

(o) Related Information

    (1) Refer to Mandatory Continuing Airworthiness Information 
(MCAI) EASA Airworthiness Directive 2014-0033, dated February 4, 
2014, for related information. This MCAI may be found in the AD 
docket on the Internet at http://www.regulations.gov by searching 
for and locating Docket No. FAA-2014-0928.
    (2) Service information identified in this AD that is not 
incorporated by reference is available at the addresses specified in 
paragraphs (p)(3) and (p)(4) of this AD.

(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 this AD specifies otherwise.
    (i) Airbus Service Bulletin A330-55-3043, Revision 1, dated 
August 20, 2014.
    (ii) Airbus Service Bulletin A340-55-4039, Revision 1, dated 
August 20, 2014.
    (iii) Airbus Service Bulletin A340-55-5007, Revision 1, dated 
August 20, 2014.
    (3) 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; email [email protected]; 
Internet http://www.airbus.com.
    (4) 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.
    (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 9, 2015.
Michael Kaszycki,
Acting Manager, Transport Airplane Directorate, Aircraft Certification 
Service.
[FR Doc. 2015-29851 Filed 11-25-15; 8:45 am]
 BILLING CODE 4910-13-P


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