Published 2016-12-08 · Federal Register document 2016-28210
Airworthiness Directives; Bombardier, Inc. Airplanes
Publication summary
We are adopting a new airworthiness directive (AD) for certain Bombardier, Inc. Model DHC-8-400 series airplanes. This AD was prompted by reports of cracked and corroded barrel nuts found at the mid-spar location of the horizontal-stabilizer-to-vertical-stabilizer attachment joint. This AD requires repetitive detailed inspections of each barrel nut and cradle, a check of the bolt torque of the preload indicating (PLI) washers, and corrective action if necessary. We are issuing this AD to address the unsafe condition on these products.
Why this record is shown
Source: Federal Register annual FAA metadata. Acquired 2026-09-03T22:23:51.853224+00:00. The title, summary and date are source facts.
- Source revision
- federal_register_ad_metadata_2016-48fe8cb6c57c00b7
- Source row
- results[384]
- Raw source SHA-256
- 48fe8cb6c57c00b74623eb2b71ad0abe73b95a424a8ac83fecd389da4d1e3a81
Final-rule publication
Recorded publication clauses
- AD identifier printed in this edition
- 2016-24-03
- Effective date printed in this edition
- 2017-01-12
Read 16 complete recorded clauses
Effective Date
(a) Effective Date
This AD is effective January 12, 2017.
Exact source excerpt. Text positions 14576–14640, end exclusive, in the original decoded publication. SHA-256: 6c8a48e2e0c360cc44f2088bfe5bb44f94f14f60206056902711afcf0057f2ca
Affected ADs
(b) Affected ADs
None.
Exact source excerpt. Text positions 14640–14669, end exclusive, in the original decoded publication. SHA-256: 871a4afc60ceeae06e8010585055188633d616078500c45937092bfe892239c0
Applicability wording · Applicability
(c) Applicability
This AD applies to Bombardier, Inc. Model DHC-8-400, -401, and -
402 airplanes, certificated in any category, serial numbers 4001 and
subsequent.
[[Page 88626]]
Exact source excerpt. Text positions 14669–14856, end exclusive, in the original decoded publication. SHA-256: ce1be5b6dcc8a045ec5cd1f27157e44441d0f253aca6228f13e72f48b800df1c
Subject
(d) Subject
Air Transport Association (ATA) of America Code 55, Stablizers.
Exact source excerpt. Text positions 14856–14938, end exclusive, in the original decoded publication. SHA-256: b5b53a63e9b8d8db79bef9bfbfe63e0f37283a7eb7c40618d687042c00a2fe38
Reason
(e) Reason
This AD was prompted by reports of cracked and corroded barrel
nuts found at the mid-spar location of the horizontal-stabilizer-to-
vertical-stabilizer attachment joint. We are issuing this AD to
detect and correct cracked and corroded barrel nuts, which could
compromise the structural integrity of the vertical-stabilizer
attachment joints and lead to loss of control of the airplane.
Exact source excerpt. Text positions 14938–15346, end exclusive, in the original decoded publication. SHA-256: 12667d886583a77ae6132bbf35b2b9945a698120630195adec648b610e738dfe
Compliance
(f) Compliance
Comply with this AD within the compliance times specified,
unless already done.
Exact source excerpt. Text positions 15346–15448, end exclusive, in the original decoded publication. SHA-256: 00fbfa31932483f627d0ce0a11cbd2e35e15d9231842b91ac85623ce533912d3
Detailed Inspection of Barrel Nuts for Cracks and Corrosion
(g) Detailed Inspection of Barrel Nuts for Cracks and Corrosion
(1) For airplanes that have accumulated 5,400 flight hours or
more, or have been in service 32 months or more since the date of
issuance of the original certificate of airworthiness or the date of
issuance of the original export certificate of airworthiness, as of
the effective date of this AD: Within 600 flight hours or 4 months,
whichever occurs first after the effective date of this AD, do a
detailed visual inspection for signs of cracks and corrosion of the
barrel nut and cradle, in accordance with paragraph 3.B.,
``Procedures,'' of the Accomplishment Instructions of Bombardier
Alert Service Bulletin A84-55-04, Revision C, dated May 3, 2016.
(2) For airplanes that have less than 5,400 flight hours, and
have been in-service for less than 32 months since the date of
issuance of the original certificate of airworthiness or the date of
issuance of the original export certificate of airworthiness, as of
the effective date of this AD: Before the accumulation of 6,000
total flight hours or 36 months since the date of issuance of the
original certificate of airworthiness or the date of issuance of the
original export certificate of airworthiness, whichever occurs
first, do a detailed visual inspection of the barrel nut for signs
of cracks and corrosion of the barrel nut and cradle, in accordance
with paragraph 3.B., ``Procedures,'' of the Accomplishment
Instructions of Bombardier Alert Service Bulletin A84-55-04,
Revision C, dated May 3, 2016.
Exact source excerpt. Text positions 15448–17007, end exclusive, in the original decoded publication. SHA-256: d462a4421cb960526360e3de29d8c1654ba7b28499b3945b28a278cd43bc0d44
Corrective Actions, Detailed Inspection, and Repetitive Inspections
(h) Corrective Actions, Detailed Inspection, and Repetitive Inspections
Depending on the findings of any inspection required by
paragraphs (g) and (j) of this AD, do the applicable actions in
paragraphs (h)(1), (h)(2), and (h)(3) of this AD.
(1) If any barrel nut or cradle is found cracked or broken,
before further flight, replace the barrel nut and associated
hardware, in accordance with paragraph 3.B., ``Procedures,'' of the
Accomplishment Instructions of Bombardier Alert Service Bulletin
A84-55-04, Revision C, dated May 3, 2016.
(i) Concurrently with the replacement of any barrel nut, do a
detailed inspection for corrosion and damage of the bore of the
fitting, in accordance with paragraph 3.B., ``Procedures,'' of the
Accomplishment Instructions of Bombardier Alert Service Bulletin
A84-55-04, Revision C, dated May 3, 2016, and, before further
flight, repair all corrosion and damage, in accordance with
Bombardier Repair Drawing (RD) 8/4-55-1143, Issue 1, dated May 21,
2015. If the bore of the fitting cannot be repaired in accordance
with Bombardier RD 8/4-55-1143, Issue 1, dated May 21, 2015,
accomplish corrective actions in accordance with the procedures
specified in paragraph (n)(2) of this AD.
(ii) Within 600 flight hours or 4 months, whichever occurs
first, after the replacement of a cracked barrel nut, replace the
remaining barrel nuts and their associated hardware at the
horizontal-stabilizer-to-vertical-stabilizer attachment joints, in
accordance with paragraph 3.B., ``Procedures,'' of the
Accomplishment Instructions of Bombardier Alert Service Bulletin
A84-55-04, Revision C, dated May 3, 2016.
(2) If any corrosion is found on any barrel nut on the front or
rear-spar joints, before further flight, replace the barrel nut
accomplish corrective actions in accordance with the procedures
specified in paragraph (n)(2) of this AD.
(3) If any corrosion above level 1, as defined in Bombardier
Alert Service Bulletin A84-55-04, Revision C, dated May 3, 2016, is
found on a barrel nut at the mid-spar joint, before further flight,
replace the barrel nut and accomplish corrective actions in
accordance with the procedures specified in paragraph (n)(2) of this
AD.
(4) If all corrosion found is at level 1 or below, as defined in
Bombardier Alert Service Bulletin A84-55-04, Revision C, dated May
3, 2016, on a barrel nut at the mid-spar joint, repeat the
inspection specified in paragraph (g) of this AD at intervals not to
exceed 600 flight hours or 4 months, whichever occurs first, until
completion of the actions required by paragraph (k) of this AD.
Exact source excerpt. Text positions 17007–19658, end exclusive, in the original decoded publication. SHA-256: c910696d52086d8481f9c1a54836ab04326e6477030e294974acc99b8406dbd4
Preload Indicating (PLI) Washer Check
(i) Preload Indicating (PLI) Washer Check
For airplanes with PLI washers installed at the front and rear-
spar joints, before further flight after accomplishing any
inspection required by (g) of this AD and all applicable corrective
actions required by paragraph (h) of this AD, check the bolt
preload, and do all applicable corrective actions, in accordance
with paragraph 3.B., ``Procedures,'' of the Accomplishment
Instructions of Bombardier Alert Service Bulletin A84-55-04,
Revision C, dated May 3, 2016. Do all applicable corrective actions
before further flight.
Exact source excerpt. Text positions 19658–20241, end exclusive, in the original decoded publication. SHA-256: 241d98c6fdd9cca53373ee4bee2e454c8164529f7c7af8be7304b21e65f7673f
Repetitive Inspection Interval
(j) Repetitive Inspection Interval
Repeat the inspection and preload check required by paragraphs
(g) and (i) of this AD at intervals not to exceed 3,600 flight hours
or 18 months, whichever occurs first, except as provided by
paragraph (k) of this AD.
Exact source excerpt. Text positions 20241–20503, end exclusive, in the original decoded publication. SHA-256: ecf3ba6e34793da431b15e2ac6b908df80d67c3762908e5fb04a11e1580aa041
Optional Barrel Nut Replacement
(k) Optional Barrel Nut Replacement
Inspection and replacement of all barrel nuts at the horizontal-
stabilizer-to vertical-stabilizer attachment joints, in accordance
with paragraph 3.B., ``Procedures,'' of the Accomplishment
Instructions of Bombardier Alert Service Bulletin A84-55-04,
Revision C, dated May 3, 2016, extends the next inspection required
by paragraph (j) of this AD to within 6,000 flight hours or 36
months, whichever occurs first, after accomplishing the replacement.
Exact source excerpt. Text positions 20503–21002, end exclusive, in the original decoded publication. SHA-256: 9d19842e6c1d419628c09b0b293f4ba3360a989520809ac42167dedbf32592b6
Reporting Requirements
(l) Reporting Requirements
At the applicable time specified in paragraph (l)(1) or (l)(2)
of this AD, submit a report of the findings (both positive and
negative) of each inspection required by this AD to Technical Help
Desk--Q-series, telephone: 416-375-4000, fax: 416-375-4539, email:
[email protected], using the inspection form in
Bombardier Alert Service Bulletin A84-55-04, Revision C, dated May
3, 2016.
(1) If the inspection was done on or after the effective date of
this AD: Submit the report within 30 days after the inspection.
(2) If the inspection was done before the effective date of this
AD: Submit the report within 30 days after the effective date of
this AD.
Exact source excerpt. Text positions 21002–21704, end exclusive, in the original decoded publication. SHA-256: bfdb038cfa83e87b4fed47b7f614c1f439663902236e7da145444ed13cb3d6b2
Credit for Previous Actions
(m) Credit for Previous Actions
This paragraph provides credit for the corresponding actions
specified in paragraphs (g)(1), (g)(2), (h)(1), (h)(1)(i),
(h)(1)(ii), (h)(3), (h)(4), (i), (k), and (l) of this AD, if those
actions were performed before the effective date of this AD using
the service information identified in paragraphs (m)(1), (m)(2), and
(m)(3) of this AD.
(1) Bombardier Alert Service Bulletin A84-55-04, dated May 21,
2015.
(2) Bombardier Alert Service Bulletin A84-55-04, Revision A,
dated June 2, 2015.
(3) Bombardier Alert Service Bulletin A84-55-04, Revision B,
dated July 30, 2015.
Exact source excerpt. Text positions 21704–22335, end exclusive, in the original decoded publication. SHA-256: e3477c63dbee8db697ff57a8e5df0cbfc796b5545375a21898beb641195c6898
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, New
York ACO, ANE-170, 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 ACO, send it to ATTN: Program
Manager, Continuing Operational Safety, FAA, New York ACO, 1600
Stewart Avenue, Suite 410, Westbury, NY 11590; telephone 516-228-
7300; fax 516-794-5531. 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, New York ACO,
ANE-170, FAA; or Transport Canada Civil Aviation (TCCA); or
Bombardier, Inc.'s TCCA DAO. If approved by the DAO, the approval
must include the DAO-authorized signature.
(3) Reporting Requirements: A federal agency may not conduct or
sponsor, and a person is not required to respond to, nor shall a
person be subject to a penalty for
[[Page 88627]]
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 OMB
Control Number for this information collection is 2120-0056. Public
reporting for this collection of information is estimated to be
approximately 5 minutes per response, including the time for
reviewing instructions, completing and reviewing the collection of
information. All responses to this collection of information are
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.
Exact source excerpt. Text positions 22335–24594, end exclusive, in the original decoded publication. SHA-256: 3cc7a12df4ee14bcc4eb43fe06bb54e444392bcb64b54e9909fe43428e18760b
Related Information
(o) Related Information
(1) Refer to Mandatory Continuing Airworthiness Information
(MCAI) Canadian Airworthiness Directive CF-2015-13, dated June 25,
2015, 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-2016-4224.
(2) Service information identified in this AD that is not
incorporated by reference is available at the addresses specified in
paragraphs (p)(4) and (p)(5) of this AD.
Exact source excerpt. Text positions 24594–25102, end exclusive, in the original decoded publication. SHA-256: 97cb455ec8490448087b8db763d47f55358aded10ed93201244ec7fb8160b253
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) Bombardier Alert Service Bulletin A84-55-04, Revision C,
dated May 3, 2016.
(ii) Bombardier Repair Drawing (RD) 8/4-55-1143, Issue 1, dated
May 21, 2015.
(3) For service information identified in this AD, contact
Bombardier, Inc., Q-Series Technical Help Desk, 123 Garratt
Boulevard, Toronto, Ontario M3K 1Y5, Canada; telephone 416-375-4000;
fax 416-375-4539; email [email protected]; Internet
http://www.bombardier.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 25102–26417, end exclusive, in the original decoded publication. SHA-256: deba50d67269b7e49cff3e39432e5bdc1e4da403efd8b3a592c6cf6967eab948
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 2016-24-03 · 1 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: 3c29c4df5b59a65228453210ff225269898a4c9e14e8c62477b2996f00bd97d4. Source manifest: dc5592a96f88fc97ef6b655931f960af29ea6768ea23d62d43e3e5bbc1ce479f.
Official source · 2016-12-08
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 81, Number 236 (Thursday, December 8, 2016)]
[Rules and Regulations]
[Pages 88623-88627]
From the Federal Register Online via the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]
[FR Doc No: 2016-28210]
-----------------------------------------------------------------------
DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION
Federal Aviation Administration
14 CFR Part 39
[Docket No. FAA-2016-4224; Directorate Identifier 2015-NM-170-AD;
Amendment 39-18720; AD 2016-24-03]
RIN 2120-AA64
Airworthiness Directives; Bombardier, Inc. Airplanes
AGENCY: Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), Department of
Transportation (DOT).
ACTION: Final rule.
-----------------------------------------------------------------------
SUMMARY: We are adopting a new airworthiness directive (AD) for certain
Bombardier, Inc. Model DHC-8-400 series airplanes. This AD was prompted
by reports of cracked and corroded barrel nuts found at the mid-spar
location of the horizontal-stabilizer-to-vertical-stabilizer attachment
joint. This AD requires repetitive detailed
[[Page 88624]]
inspections of each barrel nut and cradle, a check of the bolt torque
of the preload indicating (PLI) washers, and corrective action if
necessary. We are issuing this AD to address the unsafe condition on
these products.
DATES: This AD is effective January 12, 2017.
The Director of the Federal Register approved the incorporation by
reference of certain publications listed in this AD as of January 12,
2017.
ADDRESSES: For service information identified in this final rule,
contact Bombardier, Inc., Q-Series Technical Help Desk, 123 Garratt
Boulevard, Toronto, Ontario M3K 1Y5, Canada; telephone 416-375-4000;
fax 416-375-4539; email [email protected]; Internet
http://www.bombardier.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-2016-4224.
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-2016-
4224; 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 Office (telephone
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: Aziz Ahmed, Aerospace Engineer,
Airframe and Mechanical Systems Branch, ANE-171, FAA, New York Aircraft
Certification Office (ACO), 1600 Stewart Avenue, Suite 410, Westbury,
NY 11590; telephone 516-228-7329; fax 516-794-5531.
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 Bombardier, Inc.
Model DHC-8-400 airplanes. The NPRM published in the Federal Register
on March 14, 2016 (81 FR 13298) (``the NPRM''). The NPRM was prompted
by reports of cracked and corroded barrel nuts found at the mid-spar
location of the horizontal-stabilizer-to-vertical-stabilizer attachment
joint. The NPRM proposed to require repetitive detailed inspections of
each barrel nut and cradle, a check of the bolt torque of the PLI
washers, and corrective action if necessary. We are issuing this AD to
detect and correct cracked and corroded barrel nuts, which could
compromise the structural integrity of the vertical-stabilizer
attachment joints and lead to loss of control of the airplane.
Transport Canada Civil Aviation (TCCA), which is the aviation
authority for Canada, issued Canadian Airworthiness Directive CF-2015-
13, dated June 25, 2015 (referred to after this as the Mandatory
Continuing Airworthiness Information, or ``the MCAI''), to correct an
unsafe condition for certain Bombardier, Inc. Model DHC-8-400 series
airplanes. The MCAI states:
There has been one in-service report of a cracked and corroded
barrel nut, part number (P/N) DSC228-12, found at the mid-spar
location of the horizontal stabilizer to vertical stabilizer
attachment joint. There have also been two other reports of corroded
barrel nuts found at mid-spar locations.
Preliminary investigation determined that the cracking is
initiated by corrosion. The corrosion may have been caused by
inadequate cadmium plating on the barrel nut. Failure of the barrel
nuts could compromise the structural integrity of the joint and
could lead to loss of control of the aeroplane.
This [Canadian] AD mandates initial and repetitive inspections
of the barrel nuts [and cradles for cracks and corrosion] at each
horizontal stabilizer to vertical stabilizer attachment joints.
Required actions include a bolt preload check of the PLI washers
and applicable corrective actions (retorque of the bolts and
replacement of the barrel nut), a detailed inspection of cracked or
broken barrel nuts for damaged bores of the fittings, replacement of
barrel nuts, and repair of damage and corrosion.
You may examine the MCAI in the AD docket on the Internet at http://www.regulations.gov by searching for and locating Docket No. FAA-2016-
4224.
Comments
We gave the public the opportunity to participate in developing
this AD. The following presents the comments received on the NPRM and
the FAA's response to each comment.
Support for the NPRM
The Air Line Pilots Association, International, and a commenter,
Lara Gabrys, supported the intent of the NPRM.
Request To Specify Revised Service Information
The source of service information in the NPRM--Bombardier Alert
Service Bulletin A84-55-04, Revision A, dated June 2, 2015--has been
revised. Horizon Air requested that we revise the NPRM to refer to the
latest version of the service information.
We agree and have revised this final rule to identify Bombardier
Alert Service Bulletin A84-55-04, Revision C, dated May 3, 2016, as the
appropriate source of service information. The revised service
information clarifies certain conditional actions; the major actions
remain essentially unchanged. We have also revised paragraph (m) of
this AD to include all earlier revisions as credit for prior
accomplishment of the corresponding actions specified in this AD.
Request for Terminating Action
Commenter Lara Gabrys expressed concern about the unsafe condition
and the lack of a permanent solution to address it.
We acknowledge the commenter's concern, and point out that this
final rule (as also specified in the NPRM) requires that operators
submit their inspection findings to Bombardier. Then, based on those
findings, Bombardier plans to develop a permanent solution to address
the unsafe condition. If terminating action is developed, approved, and
available, we might consider additional rulemaking. At this time,
however, we are issuing this final rule as proposed.
Request To Limit Required Actions
Paragraphs (g)(1), (g)(2), (h)(1)(i), (h)(1)(ii), (i), and (k) of
the proposed AD specified that certain actions be done in accordance
with ``the Accomplishment Instructions'' of the referenced service
information. Noting that ``the Accomplishment Instructions'' include
paragraphs 3.A., ``Job Set-Up,'' and 3.C., ``Close Out,'' Horizon Air
requested that the compliance method instead be limited to paragraph
3.B., ``Procedures''--the only section that corrects the unsafe
condition. Horizon Air objected to the inclusion of the specified set-
up and close-out procedures, which would restrict the operators'
ability to perform other maintenance in conjunction with the
incorporation of the service information.
[[Page 88625]]
We agree with the request, for the reasons provided by the
commenter. We have revised paragraphs (g)(1), (g)(2), (h)(1)(i),
(h)(1)(ii), (i), and (k) of this AD, as well as paragraph (h)(1) of
this AD, to refer to paragraph 3.B., ``Procedures.''
Clarification of Applicability
This AD affects Model DHC-8-400, -401, and -402 airplanes. The
SUMMARY of the NPRM and paragraph (c) of the proposed AD identified the
affected airplanes as ``Model DHC-8-400 airplanes.'' Model DHC-8-400
series airplanes consist of Model DHC-8-400, -401, and -402 airplanes
and correspond to the affected airplanes identified in the MCAI. We
have therefore revised the SUMMARY to identify the affected airplanes
as certain ``Model DHC-8-400 series airplanes.'' We also revised
paragraph (c) of this AD to identify the applicability as ``Model DHC-
8-400, -401, and -402 airplanes'' with serial numbers 4001 and
subsequent.
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 for correcting the unsafe condition; and
<bullet> Do not add any additional burden upon the public than was
already proposed in the NPRM.
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
Bombardier, Inc. has issued Alert Service Bulletin A84-55-04,
Revision C, dated May 3, 2016. The service information describes
procedures for a detailed inspection and repair for cracks and
corrosion of the barrel nuts and cradles, a bolt preload check of the
PLI washers, applicable corrective actions, a detailed inspection and
repair for corrosion and damage of the bores of the fittings, and
replacement of the barrel nuts.
Bombardier, Inc. has also issued Bombardier Repair Drawing (RD) 8/
4-55-1143, Issue 1, dated May 21, 2015. The service information
describes procedures for repairing corrosion and damage of the fitting
bore.
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.
Costs of Compliance
We estimate that this AD affects 76 airplanes of U.S. registry.
We also estimate that it will take about 6 work-hours per product
to comply with the basic requirements of this AD and 1 work-hour per
product for reporting. The average labor rate is $85 per work-hour.
Required parts will cost about $0 per product. Based on these figures,
we estimate the cost of this AD on U.S. operators to be $45,220, or
$595 per product.
In addition, we estimate that any necessary follow-on actions would
take about 4 work-hours, and require parts costing $8,881, for a cost
of $9,221 per product. We have no way of determining the number of
aircraft that might need this action.
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.
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.
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):
2016-24-03 Bombardier, Inc.: Amendment 39-18720; Docket No. FAA-
2016-4224; Directorate Identifier 2015-NM-170-AD.
(a) Effective Date
This AD is effective January 12, 2017.
(b) Affected ADs
None.
(c) Applicability
This AD applies to Bombardier, Inc. Model DHC-8-400, -401, and -
402 airplanes, certificated in any category, serial numbers 4001 and
subsequent.
[[Page 88626]]
(d) Subject
Air Transport Association (ATA) of America Code 55, Stablizers.
(e) Reason
This AD was prompted by reports of cracked and corroded barrel
nuts found at the mid-spar location of the horizontal-stabilizer-to-
vertical-stabilizer attachment joint. We are issuing this AD to
detect and correct cracked and corroded barrel nuts, which could
compromise the structural integrity of the vertical-stabilizer
attachment joints and lead to loss of control of the airplane.
(f) Compliance
Comply with this AD within the compliance times specified,
unless already done.
(g) Detailed Inspection of Barrel Nuts for Cracks and Corrosion
(1) For airplanes that have accumulated 5,400 flight hours or
more, or have been in service 32 months or more since the date of
issuance of the original certificate of airworthiness or the date of
issuance of the original export certificate of airworthiness, as of
the effective date of this AD: Within 600 flight hours or 4 months,
whichever occurs first after the effective date of this AD, do a
detailed visual inspection for signs of cracks and corrosion of the
barrel nut and cradle, in accordance with paragraph 3.B.,
``Procedures,'' of the Accomplishment Instructions of Bombardier
Alert Service Bulletin A84-55-04, Revision C, dated May 3, 2016.
(2) For airplanes that have less than 5,400 flight hours, and
have been in-service for less than 32 months since the date of
issuance of the original certificate of airworthiness or the date of
issuance of the original export certificate of airworthiness, as of
the effective date of this AD: Before the accumulation of 6,000
total flight hours or 36 months since the date of issuance of the
original certificate of airworthiness or the date of issuance of the
original export certificate of airworthiness, whichever occurs
first, do a detailed visual inspection of the barrel nut for signs
of cracks and corrosion of the barrel nut and cradle, in accordance
with paragraph 3.B., ``Procedures,'' of the Accomplishment
Instructions of Bombardier Alert Service Bulletin A84-55-04,
Revision C, dated May 3, 2016.
(h) Corrective Actions, Detailed Inspection, and Repetitive Inspections
Depending on the findings of any inspection required by
paragraphs (g) and (j) of this AD, do the applicable actions in
paragraphs (h)(1), (h)(2), and (h)(3) of this AD.
(1) If any barrel nut or cradle is found cracked or broken,
before further flight, replace the barrel nut and associated
hardware, in accordance with paragraph 3.B., ``Procedures,'' of the
Accomplishment Instructions of Bombardier Alert Service Bulletin
A84-55-04, Revision C, dated May 3, 2016.
(i) Concurrently with the replacement of any barrel nut, do a
detailed inspection for corrosion and damage of the bore of the
fitting, in accordance with paragraph 3.B., ``Procedures,'' of the
Accomplishment Instructions of Bombardier Alert Service Bulletin
A84-55-04, Revision C, dated May 3, 2016, and, before further
flight, repair all corrosion and damage, in accordance with
Bombardier Repair Drawing (RD) 8/4-55-1143, Issue 1, dated May 21,
2015. If the bore of the fitting cannot be repaired in accordance
with Bombardier RD 8/4-55-1143, Issue 1, dated May 21, 2015,
accomplish corrective actions in accordance with the procedures
specified in paragraph (n)(2) of this AD.
(ii) Within 600 flight hours or 4 months, whichever occurs
first, after the replacement of a cracked barrel nut, replace the
remaining barrel nuts and their associated hardware at the
horizontal-stabilizer-to-vertical-stabilizer attachment joints, in
accordance with paragraph 3.B., ``Procedures,'' of the
Accomplishment Instructions of Bombardier Alert Service Bulletin
A84-55-04, Revision C, dated May 3, 2016.
(2) If any corrosion is found on any barrel nut on the front or
rear-spar joints, before further flight, replace the barrel nut
accomplish corrective actions in accordance with the procedures
specified in paragraph (n)(2) of this AD.
(3) If any corrosion above level 1, as defined in Bombardier
Alert Service Bulletin A84-55-04, Revision C, dated May 3, 2016, is
found on a barrel nut at the mid-spar joint, before further flight,
replace the barrel nut and accomplish corrective actions in
accordance with the procedures specified in paragraph (n)(2) of this
AD.
(4) If all corrosion found is at level 1 or below, as defined in
Bombardier Alert Service Bulletin A84-55-04, Revision C, dated May
3, 2016, on a barrel nut at the mid-spar joint, repeat the
inspection specified in paragraph (g) of this AD at intervals not to
exceed 600 flight hours or 4 months, whichever occurs first, until
completion of the actions required by paragraph (k) of this AD.
(i) Preload Indicating (PLI) Washer Check
For airplanes with PLI washers installed at the front and rear-
spar joints, before further flight after accomplishing any
inspection required by (g) of this AD and all applicable corrective
actions required by paragraph (h) of this AD, check the bolt
preload, and do all applicable corrective actions, in accordance
with paragraph 3.B., ``Procedures,'' of the Accomplishment
Instructions of Bombardier Alert Service Bulletin A84-55-04,
Revision C, dated May 3, 2016. Do all applicable corrective actions
before further flight.
(j) Repetitive Inspection Interval
Repeat the inspection and preload check required by paragraphs
(g) and (i) of this AD at intervals not to exceed 3,600 flight hours
or 18 months, whichever occurs first, except as provided by
paragraph (k) of this AD.
(k) Optional Barrel Nut Replacement
Inspection and replacement of all barrel nuts at the horizontal-
stabilizer-to vertical-stabilizer attachment joints, in accordance
with paragraph 3.B., ``Procedures,'' of the Accomplishment
Instructions of Bombardier Alert Service Bulletin A84-55-04,
Revision C, dated May 3, 2016, extends the next inspection required
by paragraph (j) of this AD to within 6,000 flight hours or 36
months, whichever occurs first, after accomplishing the replacement.
(l) Reporting Requirements
At the applicable time specified in paragraph (l)(1) or (l)(2)
of this AD, submit a report of the findings (both positive and
negative) of each inspection required by this AD to Technical Help
Desk--Q-series, telephone: 416-375-4000, fax: 416-375-4539, email:
[email protected], using the inspection form in
Bombardier Alert Service Bulletin A84-55-04, Revision C, dated May
3, 2016.
(1) If the inspection was done on or after the effective date of
this AD: Submit the report within 30 days after the inspection.
(2) If the inspection was done before the effective date of this
AD: Submit the report within 30 days after the effective date of
this AD.
(m) Credit for Previous Actions
This paragraph provides credit for the corresponding actions
specified in paragraphs (g)(1), (g)(2), (h)(1), (h)(1)(i),
(h)(1)(ii), (h)(3), (h)(4), (i), (k), and (l) of this AD, if those
actions were performed before the effective date of this AD using
the service information identified in paragraphs (m)(1), (m)(2), and
(m)(3) of this AD.
(1) Bombardier Alert Service Bulletin A84-55-04, dated May 21,
2015.
(2) Bombardier Alert Service Bulletin A84-55-04, Revision A,
dated June 2, 2015.
(3) Bombardier Alert Service Bulletin A84-55-04, Revision B,
dated July 30, 2015.
(n) Other FAA AD Provisions
The following provisions also apply to this AD:
(1) Alternative Methods of Compliance (AMOCs): The Manager, New
York ACO, ANE-170, 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 ACO, send it to ATTN: Program
Manager, Continuing Operational Safety, FAA, New York ACO, 1600
Stewart Avenue, Suite 410, Westbury, NY 11590; telephone 516-228-
7300; fax 516-794-5531. 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, New York ACO,
ANE-170, FAA; or Transport Canada Civil Aviation (TCCA); or
Bombardier, Inc.'s TCCA DAO. If approved by the DAO, the approval
must include the DAO-authorized signature.
(3) Reporting Requirements: A federal agency may not conduct or
sponsor, and a person is not required to respond to, nor shall a
person be subject to a penalty for
[[Page 88627]]
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 OMB
Control Number for this information collection is 2120-0056. Public
reporting for this collection of information is estimated to be
approximately 5 minutes per response, including the time for
reviewing instructions, completing and reviewing the collection of
information. All responses to this collection of information are
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.
(o) Related Information
(1) Refer to Mandatory Continuing Airworthiness Information
(MCAI) Canadian Airworthiness Directive CF-2015-13, dated June 25,
2015, 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-2016-4224.
(2) Service information identified in this AD that is not
incorporated by reference is available at the addresses specified in
paragraphs (p)(4) and (p)(5) 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) Bombardier Alert Service Bulletin A84-55-04, Revision C,
dated May 3, 2016.
(ii) Bombardier Repair Drawing (RD) 8/4-55-1143, Issue 1, dated
May 21, 2015.
(3) For service information identified in this AD, contact
Bombardier, Inc., Q-Series Technical Help Desk, 123 Garratt
Boulevard, Toronto, Ontario M3K 1Y5, Canada; telephone 416-375-4000;
fax 416-375-4539; email [email protected]; Internet
http://www.bombardier.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 15, 2016.
Paul Bernado,
Acting Manager, Transport Airplane Directorate, Aircraft Certification
Service.
[FR Doc. 2016-28210 Filed 12-7-16; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE 4910-13-P
Why this text is shown
The complete text was extracted from the official GovInfo HTML edition for this publication. Acquired 2026-10-09T02:24:14.912642+00:00. Text extraction preserves the recorded source wording; it does not determine current requirements.
Open the captured official edition
- Source SHA-256
- 32431f5355bf84c5a5441262d6d77df4643d1337c1c0d440bf86de12f735ea4c
- Text SHA-256
- 3c29c4df5b59a65228453210ff225269898a4c9e14e8c62477b2996f00bd97d4
Return to the full metadata catalog · Search complete publication text · Explore retained publication text and evidence
Coverage and limits
These are dated publication metadata, recorded clauses and literal source observations. Word, model-label, header and reference matches do not establish current legal effect, manufacturer/model identity, aircraft applicability, installed configuration or compliance.
The collection uses 33 explicit annual source snapshots. Source captures and operative-text qualifications have separate states. Missing information remains unknown.