Published 2017-02-21 · Federal Register document 2017-02661
Airworthiness Directives; The Boeing Company Airplanes
Publication summary
We are superseding Airworthiness Directive (AD) 2012-16-07 for certain The Boeing Company Model 737-500 series airplanes. AD 2012-16- 07 required inspections of the fuselage skin at the chem-milled steps, and repair if necessary. This new AD adds new inspections, permanent repairs of time-limited repairs, related investigative and corrective actions if necessary, and skin panel replacement. This AD was prompted by evaluation by the design approval holder (DAH) that indicates that the fuselage skin is subject to widespread fatigue damage (WFD), and reports of cracking in certain areas of the fuselage skin. 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 2026-09-03T22:23:54.997910+00:00. The title, summary and date are source facts.
- Source revision
- federal_register_ad_metadata_2017-90ba553c3b802c53
- Source row
- results[39]
- Raw source SHA-256
- 90ba553c3b802c5316e8d18f30db5da9f7731a87f58278ec2965f199ef4375e9
Final-rule publication
Recorded publication clauses
- AD identifier printed in this edition
- 2017-03-04
- Effective date printed in this edition
- 2017-03-28
Read 15 complete recorded clauses
Effective Date
(a) Effective Date
This AD is effective March 28, 2017.
Exact source excerpt. Text positions 18883–18945, end exclusive, in the original decoded publication. SHA-256: 79077a15febb2e1b39e28e633305c09212a83ef2607503d9b3b13c1390ba7363
Affected ADs
(b) Affected ADs
This AD replaces AD 2012-16-07, Amendment 39-17154 (77 FR 48423,
August 14, 2012) (``AD 2012-16-07'').
Exact source excerpt. Text positions 18945–19072, end exclusive, in the original decoded publication. SHA-256: fa25a71552ffaece98e326b036aa6ab1eebb287d74647d39c3e5175b3ee77c9a
Applicability wording · Applicability
(c) Applicability
(1) This AD applies to all The Boeing Company Model 737-500
series airplanes, certificated in any category.
(2) Installation of Supplemental Type Certificate (STC)
ST01219SE (http://rgl.faa.gov/Regulatory_and_Guidance_Library/
rgstc.nsf/0/ebd1cec7b301293e86257cb30045557a/$FILE/ST01219SE.pdf)
[[Page 11143]]
does not affect the ability to accomplish the actions required by
this AD. Therefore, for airplanes on which STC ST01219SE is
installed, a ``change in product'' alternative method of compliance
(AMOC) approval request is not necessary to comply with the
requirements of 14 CFR 39.17.
Exact source excerpt. Text positions 19072–19700, end exclusive, in the original decoded publication. SHA-256: de9af53ed8e55d354f81b9b15bfd0dae4533e368a4bc0485a608251ea07a982a
Subject
(d) Subject
Air Transport Association (ATA) of America Code 53, Fuselage.
Exact source excerpt. Text positions 19700–19780, 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 (DAH) that indicates that the fuselage skin is subject to
widespread fatigue damage (WFD), and reports of cracks at the chem-
milled steps in the fuselage skin. We are issuing this AD to detect
and correct cracking on the aft lower lobe fuselage skins, which
could result in rapid decompression of the airplane.
Exact source excerpt. Text positions 19780–20191, end exclusive, in the original decoded publication. SHA-256: 4689d4a2d505bf7e4e7d5cd9e419a85625448c6eeef91c1bde97b46b37dedb36
Compliance
(f) Compliance
Comply with this AD within the compliance times specified,
unless already done.
Exact source excerpt. Text positions 20191–20293, end exclusive, in the original decoded publication. SHA-256: 00fbfa31932483f627d0ce0a11cbd2e35e15d9231842b91ac85623ce533912d3
Inspections, Related Investigative and Corrective Actions
(g) Inspections, Related Investigative and Corrective Actions
At the applicable times specified in table 1 of paragraph 1.E.,
``Compliance,'' of Boeing Special Attention Service Bulletin 737-53-
1315, Revision 1, dated June 30, 2015 (``SASB 737-53-1315 R1''),
except as required by paragraphs (h)(1) and (h)(2) of this AD: Do
the applicable inspections to detect cracks in the fuselage skin
panels; and do all applicable related investigative and corrective
actions; in accordance with the Accomplishment Instructions of SASB
737-53-1315 R1, except as required by paragraphs (h)(3) and (h)(4)
of this AD. Do all applicable related investigative and corrective
actions before further flight. Repeat the applicable inspections
thereafter at the applicable intervals specified SASB 737-53-1315
R1. Accomplishment of a repair in accordance with ``Part 3: Repair''
of the Accomplishment Instructions of SASB 737-53-1315 R1, except as
required by paragraph (h)(3) of this AD, is terminating action for
the repetitive inspections required by this paragraph at the
repaired locations only.
Exact source excerpt. Text positions 20293–21395, end exclusive, in the original decoded publication. SHA-256: a4adbc62d5349be3c482ed219817a4443c0987ae5a78239d49185c243796cf1c
Exceptions to SASB 737-53-1315 R1
(h) Exceptions to SASB 737-53-1315 R1
(1) Where SASB 737-53-1315 R1, specifies compliance times
``after the Revision 1 date of this service bulletin,'' this AD
requires compliance within the specified compliance times after the
effective date of this AD.
(2) The Condition column of table 1 of Paragraph 1.E.,
``Compliance,'' of SASB 737-53-1315 R1, refers to airplanes in
certain configurations as of the ``issue date of Revision 1 of this
service bulletin.'' However, this AD applies to airplanes in the
specified configurations ``as of the effective date of this AD.''
(3) Where SASB 737-53-1315 R1, specifies contacting Boeing for
repair instructions or work instructions, before further flight,
repair or perform the work instructions using a method approved in
accordance with the procedures specified in paragraph (m) of this
AD, except as required by paragraph (h)(4) of this AD.
(4) For airplanes on which an operator has a record that a skin
panel was replaced with a production skin panel before 53,000 total
flight cycles: At the applicable time for the next inspection as
specified in table 1 of paragraph 1.E., ``Compliance,'' SASB 737-53-
1315 R1, except as provided by paragraphs (h)(1) and (h)(2) of this
AD: Perform inspections and applicable corrective actions using a
method approved in accordance with the procedures specified in
paragraph (m) of this AD.
(5) The Condition column of table 2 of Paragraph 1.E.,
``Compliance,'' of SASB 737-53-1315 R1, refers to airplanes in
certain configurations as of the ``issue date of Revision 1 of this
service bulletin.'' However, this AD applies to airplanes in the
specified configurations regardless of when the time limited repair
is installed.
Exact source excerpt. Text positions 21395–23149, end exclusive, in the original decoded publication. SHA-256: 1022147eac775f9fd28deac81fa99a902ff89600b6f7dc1edb7f435f4b4a4185
Actions for Airplanes With a Time Limited Repair Installed
(i) Actions for Airplanes With a Time Limited Repair Installed
For airplanes with a time limited repair installed as specified
in Boeing Special Attention Service Bulletin 737-53-1315, dated July
29, 2011; or SASB 737-53-1315 R1: At the applicable times specified
in table 2 of paragraph 1.E., ``Compliance,'' of SASB 737-53-1315
R1, except as provided by paragraphs (h)(1) and (h)(5) of this AD,
do the actions specified in paragraphs (i)(1) and (i)(2) of this AD.
(1) Do the applicable inspections to detect missing or loose
fasteners and any disbonding or cracking of bonded doublers; and do
all applicable related investigative and corrective actions; in
accordance with the Accomplishment Instructions of SASB 737-53-1315
R1, except as required by paragraph (h)(3) of this AD. Do all
applicable related investigative and corrective actions before
further flight. Repeat the applicable inspections thereafter at the
applicable intervals specified SASB 737-53-1315 R1.
(2) Make the time limited repair permanent and do all applicable
related investigative and corrective actions in accordance with the
Accomplishment Instructions of SASB 737-53-1315 R1, except as
required by paragraph (h)(3) of this AD. Do all applicable related
investigative and corrective actions before further flight.
Accomplishing the permanent repair required by this paragraph
terminates the inspections required by paragraph (i)(1) of this AD
for the permanently repaired area only.
Exact source excerpt. Text positions 23149–24645, end exclusive, in the original decoded publication. SHA-256: 36b5a0ef7930f3de7972df52edcba419d1a31b2c71af717d9fa223fa40086ee0
AD Provisions for Part 26 Supplemental Inspections
(j) AD Provisions for Part 26 Supplemental Inspections
Table 3 of paragraph 1.E., ``Compliance,'' of SASB 737-53-1315
R1, specifies post-modification airworthiness limitation inspections
in compliance with 14 CFR 25.571(a)(3) at the modified locations,
which support compliance with 14 CFR 121.1109(c)(2) or
129.109(b)(2). As airworthiness limitations, these inspections are
required by maintenance and operational rules. It is therefore
unnecessary to mandate them in this AD. Deviations from these
inspections require FAA approval, but do not require an alternative
method of compliance.
Exact source excerpt. Text positions 24645–25249, end exclusive, in the original decoded publication. SHA-256: e1d40651cc8cff66733ace87d1275746de2662d19cd37763676d2551e0f8f260
Skin Panel Replacement
(k) Skin Panel Replacement
At the later of the times specified in paragraphs (k)(1) and
(k)(2) of this AD: Replace the applicable skin panels, and do all
applicable related investigative and corrective actions, in
accordance with the Accomplishment Instructions of SASB 737-53-1315
R1. Do all applicable related investigative and corrective actions
before further flight. Doing the skin panel replacement required by
this paragraph terminates the inspection requirements of paragraph
(g) of this AD for that skin panel only, provided the skin panel
replacement was done with a production skin panel at or after 53,000
total flight cycles.
(1) Before 60,000 total flight cycles, but not before 53,000
total flight cycles.
(2) Within 6,000 flight cycles after the effective date of this
AD, but not before 53,000 total flight cycles.
Exact source excerpt. Text positions 25249–26106, end exclusive, in the original decoded publication. SHA-256: bfa5eaad29c3d64859b26c172e4485161dcc6b2b7588531f53c963f88b468654
Credit for Previous Actions
(l) Credit for Previous Actions
This paragraph provides credit for the zone 1 actions required
by paragraph (g) of this AD, as described in SASB 737-53-1315 R1, if
the zone 1, 2, and 3 actions, as described in Boeing Special
Attention Service Bulletin 737-53-1315, dated July 29, 2011, were
performed before the effective date of this AD using Boeing Special
Attention Service Bulletin 737-53-1315, dated July 29, 2011, except
as required by paragraph (h)(4) of this AD. Boeing Special Attention
Bulletin 737-53-1315, dated July 29, 2011, was incorporated by
reference in AD 2012-16-07.
Exact source excerpt. Text positions 26106–26707, end exclusive, in the original decoded publication. SHA-256: 808bafc4e9c6d547becb534887dd8eb69c9025d5aaf791e690e3c28ef9a31469
Alternative Methods of Compliance (AMOCs)
(m) Alternative Methods of Compliance (AMOCs)
(1) The Manager, Los Angeles 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 (n)(1) 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, Los Angeles 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.
(4) AMOCs approved previously for AD 2012-16-07 are approved as
AMOCs for the corresponding provisions of paragraph (g) of this AD.
Exact source excerpt. Text positions 26707–28135, end exclusive, in the original decoded publication. SHA-256: 74da04f7dbdd58ce2f8be17126f704338842c2362416af1103e86f2c822fad9a
Related Information
(n) Related Information
(1) For more information about this AD, contact Jennifer
Tsakoumakis, Aerospace Engineer, Airframe Branch, ANM-120L, FAA, Los
Angeles Aircraft Certification
[[Page 11144]]
Office (ACO), 3960 Paramount Boulevard, Lakewood, CA 90712-4137;
phone: 562-627-5264; fax: 562-627-5210; email:
[email protected].
(2) Service information identified in this AD that is not
incorporated by reference is available at the addresses specified in
paragraphs (o)(3) and (o)(4) of this AD.
Exact source excerpt. Text positions 28135–28648, end exclusive, in the original decoded publication. SHA-256: 8a14a050a697f7628ac7924a7f71b39521af51b3519752446eca8ae85411dd59
Material Incorporated by Reference
(o) Material Incorporated by Reference
(1) The Director of the Federal Register approved the
incorporation by reference (IBR) of the service information listed
in this paragraph under 5 U.S.C. 552(a) and 1 CFR part 51.
(2) You must use this service information as applicable to do
the actions required by this AD, unless the AD specifies otherwise.
(i) Boeing Special Attention Service Bulletin 737-53-1315,
Revision 1, dated June 30, 2015.
(ii) Reserved.
(3) For Boeing service information identified in this AD,
contact Boeing Commercial Airplanes, Attention: Contractual & Data
Services (C&DS), 2600 Westminster Blvd., MC 110-SK57, Seal Beach, CA
90740-5600; telephone 562-797-1717; Internet https://www.myboeingfleet.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 28648–29913, end exclusive, in the original decoded publication. SHA-256: 194c9c2b24e6077db5dd23db233f6f55dd9018193988df13484eca38813ab8da
Explicit historical replacement wording
Find all recorded historical references to AD 2017-03-04 · 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: e1f9b4fd1fd633c754408bc537c03f8f5923e0be7a8479401143468948216df1. Source manifest: c4b38834ce93e302f131ed3619bc7a8bd4bb3be29b81acb756c2e96d3f088f99.
Official source · 2017-02-21
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 82, Number 33 (Tuesday, February 21, 2017)]
[Rules and Regulations]
[Pages 11140-11144]
From the Federal Register Online via the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]
[FR Doc No: 2017-02661]
-----------------------------------------------------------------------
DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION
Federal Aviation Administration
14 CFR Part 39
[Docket No. FAA-2016-6664; Directorate Identifier 2015-NM-177-AD;
Amendment 39-18795; AD 2017-03-04]
RIN 2120-AA64
Airworthiness Directives; The Boeing Company Airplanes
AGENCY: Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), DOT.
ACTION: Final rule.
-----------------------------------------------------------------------
SUMMARY: We are superseding Airworthiness Directive (AD) 2012-16-07 for
certain The Boeing Company Model 737-500 series airplanes. AD 2012-16-
07 required inspections of the fuselage skin at the chem-milled steps,
and repair if necessary. This new AD adds new inspections, permanent
repairs of time-limited repairs, related investigative and corrective
actions if necessary, and skin panel replacement. This AD was prompted
by evaluation by the design approval holder (DAH) that indicates that
the fuselage skin is subject to widespread fatigue damage (WFD), and
reports of cracking in certain areas of the fuselage skin. We are
issuing this AD to address the unsafe condition on these products.
DATES: This AD is effective March 28, 2017.
The Director of the Federal Register approved the incorporation by
reference of a certain publication listed in this AD as of March 28,
2017.
ADDRESSES: For service information identified in this final rule,
contact Boeing Commercial Airplanes, Attention: Contractual & Data
Services (C&DS), 2600 Westminster Blvd., MC 110-SK57, Seal Beach, CA
90740-5600; telephone 562-797-1717; 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-2016-
6664.
Examining the AD Docket
You may examine the AD docket on the Internet at http://www.regulations.govby searching for and locating Docket No. FAA-2016-
6664; 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: Jennifer Tsakoumakis, Aerospace
Engineer, Airframe Branch, ANM-120L, FAA, Los Angeles Aircraft
Certification Office (ACO), 3960 Paramount Boulevard, Lakewood, CA
90712-4137; phone: 562-627-5264; fax: 562-627-5210; email:
[email protected].
SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION:
Discussion
We issued a notice of proposed rulemaking (NPRM) to amend 14 CFR
part 39 to supersede AD 2012-16-07, Amendment 39-17154 (77 FR 48423,
August 14, 2012) (``AD 2012-16-07''). AD 2012-16-07 applied to certain
The Boeing Company Model 737-500 series airplanes. The NPRM published
in the Federal Register on May 13, 2016 (81 FR 29813) (``the NPRM'').
The NPRM was prompted by evaluation by the DAH that indicates that the
fuselage skin is subject to WFD, and reports of cracks at the chem-
milled steps in the fuselage skin. The NPRM proposed to continue to
require inspections of the fuselage skin at the chem-milled steps, and
repair if necessary. The NPRM also proposed to add new fuselage skin
inspections for cracking, inspections to detect missing or loose
fasteners and any disbonding or cracking of bonded doublers, permanent
repairs of time-limited repairs, related investigative and corrective
actions if necessary, and skin panel replacement. We are issuing this
AD to detect and correct cracking on the aft lower lobe fuselage skins,
which could result in rapid decompression 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 and
the FAA's response to each comment.
Request To Remove Time-Limited Repair Exception From Paragraph (g) of
the Proposed AD
Boeing requested that we remove the paragraph (h)(5) exception
specified in paragraph (g) of the proposed AD. Boeing stated that
paragraph (h)(5) of the proposed AD refers to structure with time-
limited repairs and is not applicable to paragraph (g) of the proposed
AD, which deals with actions on unrepaired structure.
We agree with Boeing's request to remove the paragraph (h)(5)
reference in paragraph (g) of this AD for the reason provided by
Boeing. We have revised paragraph (g) of this AD accordingly.
Request To Revise Proposed Compliance Time and Method of Compliance
Boeing requested that we revise paragraphs (h)(4), (k)(1), and
(k)(2) of the proposed AD to specify that the skin
[[Page 11141]]
panel replacement condition is ``before'' 53,000 total flight cycles,
not ``at or before'' 53,000 total flight cycles; ``and at or after''
53,000 total flight cycles, not ``before'' for the terminating action
in paragraph (k) of the proposed AD. Boeing explained if a skin panel
is replaced at 53,000 total flight cycles, no additional safety
inspections would be needed due to the limit of validity (LOV).
Boeing also requested that we revise the compliance time for skin
panel replacement in paragraph (h)(4) of the proposed AD to a time
approved by the FAA through the alternative method of compliance (AMOC)
process instead of the time specified in the service information.
Boeing asserted that a reset of the compliance times is necessary if
the panel is replaced before 53,000 total flight cycles. Since a Boeing
authorized representative may not approve extensions of compliance
times, Boeing pointed out that the AMOC approval for a reset of the
compliance times from total flight cycles to flight cycles from when
the panel is replaced would have to come from the FAA.
We partially agree with Boeing's requests. We agree to revise the
compliance time condition to ``before 53,000 total flight cycles'' in
paragraphs (h)(4), (k)(1), and (k)(2) of this AD; and to ``at or after
53,000 total flight cycles'' in paragraph (k) of this AD for the
terminating action to address Boeing's LOV concerns.
We also acknowledge the request to change the compliance time in
paragraph (h)(4) of this AD from the applicable time for the next
inspection as specified in the service information to a time approved
by the FAA. However, we have determined that a change to this AD is not
necessary. Operators may always request approval for alternative
compliance times using a method approved in accordance with the
procedures specified in paragraph (m) of this AD. The compliance time
in paragraph (h)(4) of this AD is an appropriate compliance time and
provides an acceptable level of safety. It should also provide
operators with sufficient information for maintenance planning purposes
and allow the inspections to be done during scheduled maintenance
intervals for most affected operators.
Request To Provide Specific Service Information References
Boeing requested that we revise paragraphs (i)(1) and (i)(2) of the
proposed AD to provide reference to the specific part of the service
information. Boeing stated that paragraph (g) of the proposed AD
includes specific service information part references, so this change
would make paragraph (i) consistent with the formatting of paragraph
(g) of the proposed AD.
We do not agree with Boeing's requests. Paragraph (g) of this AD,
in part, specifies the specific service information paragraph reference
for doing repairs that are terminating action for the repetitive
inspections at the repaired locations only. We determined that this
reference is needed for clarity. We do not agree that the other
references are needed for clarity. We have not changed this AD in this
regard.
Request To Clarify Post-modification Airworthiness Limitation
Inspections
Boeing requested that we revise paragraph (j) of the proposed AD to
specify that table 3 of paragraph 1.E., ``Compliance,'' of Boeing
Special Attention Service Bulletin 737-53-1315, Revision 1, dated June
30, 2015 (``SASB 737-53-1315 R1''), is for post-modification
airworthiness limitation inspections at the modified locations. Boeing
explained that, since airworthiness limitation inspections are required
by maintenance and operational rules, it is unnecessary to mandate them
in this AD.
We agree with Boeing's request. We have revised paragraph (j) of
this AD to clarify that the post-modification inspections are
airworthiness limitations that are required by maintenance and
operational rules; therefore, these inspections are not required by
this AD.
Request To Revise Corrective Actions in Paragraph (k) of the Proposed
AD
Boeing requested that we revise paragraph (k) of the proposed AD,
which specifies replacing the applicable skin panels and doing all
applicable related investigative and corrective actions. Boeing
requested that we remove the phrases ``do all applicable related
investigative and corrective actions,'' in accordance with the
Accomplishment Instructions of SASB 737-53-1315 R1 and ``do all
applicable related investigative and corrective actions before further
flight.'' Boeing suggested replacing these phrases with in accordance
with ``Part 2: Skin Panel Replacement of the Accomplishment
Instructions of Boeing Special Attention Service Bulletin 737-53-1315,
Revision 1, dated June 30, 2015,'' to be similar to the wording in
other NPRMs.
We disagree with the request to refer to ``Part 2'' of SASB 737-53-
1315 R1. We do not agree that the reference is needed for clarity. We
also do not agree with removing the phrase ``all applicable related
investigative and corrective actions'' because that phrase indicates
there are on-condition actions. The skin panel replacement includes a
conditional action that specifies reinstalling a certain lap joint
modification. The sentence ``do all applicable related investigative
and corrective actions before further flight'' is included to reinforce
the compliance time for the on-condition actions. We have not changed
this AD in regard to these requests.
Request To Revise the NPRM To Address Certain Repaired Areas
For airplanes subject to the requirements of paragraph (g) of the
proposed AD, Boeing requested that we add a paragraph that specifies
that inspections are not required in areas that are spanned by an FAA-
approved repair that has met certain conditions. Boeing submitted
specific conditions. Boeing stated that its request is to address
elimination of inspections for repairs that have been accomplished for
damage other than chem-mill cracking.
We do not agree with Boeing's request. Paragraph (g) of this AD
specifies to do the applicable inspections and related investigative
and corrective actions specified in the Accomplishment Instructions of
SASB 737-53-1315 R1. This service information already contains the
criteria Boeing proposed. Therefore, this criteria does not need to be
repeated in this AD. We have not changed this AD in this regard.
Effect of Winglets on Accomplishment of the Proposed Actions
Aviation Partners Boeing stated that accomplishing the Supplemental
Type Certificate (STC) ST01219SE does not affect the actions specified
in the NPRM.
We concur with the commenter. We have redesignated paragraph (c) of
the proposed AD as (c)(1) and added paragraph (c)(2) to this AD to
state that installation of STC ST01219SE does not affect the ability to
accomplish the actions required by this final rule. Therefore, for
airplanes on which STC ST01219SE is installed, a ``change in product''
alternative method of compliance (AMOC) approval request is not
necessary to comply with the requirements of 14 CFR 39.17.
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:
[[Page 11142]]
<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
We reviewed SASB 737-53-1315 R1. The service information describes
procedures for inspection and repair of the fuselage skin panels
between station 727 and station 1016, and between stringers S-14 and S-
25; and also describes procedures for skin panel replacement. 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 33 airplanes of U.S. registry.
We estimate the following costs to comply with this AD:
Estimated Costs
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Parts Cost on U.S.
Action Labor cost cost Cost per product operators
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Inspections (actions retained 23 work-hours x $85 per $0 $1,955 per $64,515 per
from AD 2012-16[dash]07). hour = $1,955 per inspection cycle. inspection cycle.
inspection cycle.
Inspections (new action)......... Up to 1,515 work-hours x 0 Up to $128,775 per Up to $4,249,575
$85 per hour = $128,775 inspection cycle. per inspection
per inspection cycle. cycle.
Skin panel replacement (new 688 work-hours x $85 per 96,000 $154,480........... $5,097,840.
action). hour = $58,480.
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
We estimate the following costs to do any necessary repairs that
would be required based on the results of the inspection. We have no
way of determining the number of aircraft that might need these
repairs:
On-Condition Costs
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Action Labor cost Parts cost Cost per product
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Time-limited repair................... 24 work-hours x $85 per hour = (\1\) $2,040.
$2,040..
Permanent repair...................... 31 work-hours x $85 per hour = (\1\) 2,635.
$2,635..
Permanent repair inspection........... 4 work-hours x $85 per hour = (\1\) 340 per inspection
$340 per inspection cycle. cycle.
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
\1\ We have received no definitive data that would enable us to provide parts 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
We have 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 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 removing Airworthiness Directive (AD)
2012-16-07, Amendment 39-17154 (77 FR 48423, August 14, 2012), and
adding the following new AD:
2017-03-04 The Boeing Company: Amendment 39-18795; Docket No. FAA-
2016-6664; Directorate Identifier 2015-NM-177-AD.
(a) Effective Date
This AD is effective March 28, 2017.
(b) Affected ADs
This AD replaces AD 2012-16-07, Amendment 39-17154 (77 FR 48423,
August 14, 2012) (``AD 2012-16-07'').
(c) Applicability
(1) This AD applies to all The Boeing Company Model 737-500
series airplanes, certificated in any category.
(2) Installation of Supplemental Type Certificate (STC)
ST01219SE (http://rgl.faa.gov/Regulatory_and_Guidance_Library/
rgstc.nsf/0/ebd1cec7b301293e86257cb30045557a/$FILE/ST01219SE.pdf)
[[Page 11143]]
does not affect the ability to accomplish the actions required by
this AD. Therefore, for airplanes on which STC ST01219SE is
installed, a ``change in product'' alternative method of compliance
(AMOC) approval request is not necessary to comply with the
requirements of 14 CFR 39.17.
(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 (DAH) that indicates that the fuselage skin is subject to
widespread fatigue damage (WFD), and reports of cracks at the chem-
milled steps in the fuselage skin. We are issuing this AD to detect
and correct cracking on the aft lower lobe fuselage skins, which
could result in rapid decompression of the airplane.
(f) Compliance
Comply with this AD within the compliance times specified,
unless already done.
(g) Inspections, Related Investigative and Corrective Actions
At the applicable times specified in table 1 of paragraph 1.E.,
``Compliance,'' of Boeing Special Attention Service Bulletin 737-53-
1315, Revision 1, dated June 30, 2015 (``SASB 737-53-1315 R1''),
except as required by paragraphs (h)(1) and (h)(2) of this AD: Do
the applicable inspections to detect cracks in the fuselage skin
panels; and do all applicable related investigative and corrective
actions; in accordance with the Accomplishment Instructions of SASB
737-53-1315 R1, except as required by paragraphs (h)(3) and (h)(4)
of this AD. Do all applicable related investigative and corrective
actions before further flight. Repeat the applicable inspections
thereafter at the applicable intervals specified SASB 737-53-1315
R1. Accomplishment of a repair in accordance with ``Part 3: Repair''
of the Accomplishment Instructions of SASB 737-53-1315 R1, except as
required by paragraph (h)(3) of this AD, is terminating action for
the repetitive inspections required by this paragraph at the
repaired locations only.
(h) Exceptions to SASB 737-53-1315 R1
(1) Where SASB 737-53-1315 R1, specifies compliance times
``after the Revision 1 date of this service bulletin,'' this AD
requires compliance within the specified compliance times after the
effective date of this AD.
(2) The Condition column of table 1 of Paragraph 1.E.,
``Compliance,'' of SASB 737-53-1315 R1, refers to airplanes in
certain configurations as of the ``issue date of Revision 1 of this
service bulletin.'' However, this AD applies to airplanes in the
specified configurations ``as of the effective date of this AD.''
(3) Where SASB 737-53-1315 R1, specifies contacting Boeing for
repair instructions or work instructions, before further flight,
repair or perform the work instructions using a method approved in
accordance with the procedures specified in paragraph (m) of this
AD, except as required by paragraph (h)(4) of this AD.
(4) For airplanes on which an operator has a record that a skin
panel was replaced with a production skin panel before 53,000 total
flight cycles: At the applicable time for the next inspection as
specified in table 1 of paragraph 1.E., ``Compliance,'' SASB 737-53-
1315 R1, except as provided by paragraphs (h)(1) and (h)(2) of this
AD: Perform inspections and applicable corrective actions using a
method approved in accordance with the procedures specified in
paragraph (m) of this AD.
(5) The Condition column of table 2 of Paragraph 1.E.,
``Compliance,'' of SASB 737-53-1315 R1, refers to airplanes in
certain configurations as of the ``issue date of Revision 1 of this
service bulletin.'' However, this AD applies to airplanes in the
specified configurations regardless of when the time limited repair
is installed.
(i) Actions for Airplanes With a Time Limited Repair Installed
For airplanes with a time limited repair installed as specified
in Boeing Special Attention Service Bulletin 737-53-1315, dated July
29, 2011; or SASB 737-53-1315 R1: At the applicable times specified
in table 2 of paragraph 1.E., ``Compliance,'' of SASB 737-53-1315
R1, except as provided by paragraphs (h)(1) and (h)(5) of this AD,
do the actions specified in paragraphs (i)(1) and (i)(2) of this AD.
(1) Do the applicable inspections to detect missing or loose
fasteners and any disbonding or cracking of bonded doublers; and do
all applicable related investigative and corrective actions; in
accordance with the Accomplishment Instructions of SASB 737-53-1315
R1, except as required by paragraph (h)(3) of this AD. Do all
applicable related investigative and corrective actions before
further flight. Repeat the applicable inspections thereafter at the
applicable intervals specified SASB 737-53-1315 R1.
(2) Make the time limited repair permanent and do all applicable
related investigative and corrective actions in accordance with the
Accomplishment Instructions of SASB 737-53-1315 R1, except as
required by paragraph (h)(3) of this AD. Do all applicable related
investigative and corrective actions before further flight.
Accomplishing the permanent repair required by this paragraph
terminates the inspections required by paragraph (i)(1) of this AD
for the permanently repaired area only.
(j) AD Provisions for Part 26 Supplemental Inspections
Table 3 of paragraph 1.E., ``Compliance,'' of SASB 737-53-1315
R1, specifies post-modification airworthiness limitation inspections
in compliance with 14 CFR 25.571(a)(3) at the modified locations,
which support compliance with 14 CFR 121.1109(c)(2) or
129.109(b)(2). As airworthiness limitations, these inspections are
required by maintenance and operational rules. It is therefore
unnecessary to mandate them in this AD. Deviations from these
inspections require FAA approval, but do not require an alternative
method of compliance.
(k) Skin Panel Replacement
At the later of the times specified in paragraphs (k)(1) and
(k)(2) of this AD: Replace the applicable skin panels, and do all
applicable related investigative and corrective actions, in
accordance with the Accomplishment Instructions of SASB 737-53-1315
R1. Do all applicable related investigative and corrective actions
before further flight. Doing the skin panel replacement required by
this paragraph terminates the inspection requirements of paragraph
(g) of this AD for that skin panel only, provided the skin panel
replacement was done with a production skin panel at or after 53,000
total flight cycles.
(1) Before 60,000 total flight cycles, but not before 53,000
total flight cycles.
(2) Within 6,000 flight cycles after the effective date of this
AD, but not before 53,000 total flight cycles.
(l) Credit for Previous Actions
This paragraph provides credit for the zone 1 actions required
by paragraph (g) of this AD, as described in SASB 737-53-1315 R1, if
the zone 1, 2, and 3 actions, as described in Boeing Special
Attention Service Bulletin 737-53-1315, dated July 29, 2011, were
performed before the effective date of this AD using Boeing Special
Attention Service Bulletin 737-53-1315, dated July 29, 2011, except
as required by paragraph (h)(4) of this AD. Boeing Special Attention
Bulletin 737-53-1315, dated July 29, 2011, was incorporated by
reference in AD 2012-16-07.
(m) Alternative Methods of Compliance (AMOCs)
(1) The Manager, Los Angeles 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 (n)(1) 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, Los Angeles 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.
(4) AMOCs approved previously for AD 2012-16-07 are approved as
AMOCs for the corresponding provisions of paragraph (g) of this AD.
(n) Related Information
(1) For more information about this AD, contact Jennifer
Tsakoumakis, Aerospace Engineer, Airframe Branch, ANM-120L, FAA, Los
Angeles Aircraft Certification
[[Page 11144]]
Office (ACO), 3960 Paramount Boulevard, Lakewood, CA 90712-4137;
phone: 562-627-5264; fax: 562-627-5210; email:
[email protected].
(2) Service information identified in this AD that is not
incorporated by reference is available at the addresses specified in
paragraphs (o)(3) and (o)(4) of this AD.
(o) Material Incorporated by Reference
(1) The Director of the Federal Register approved the
incorporation by reference (IBR) of the service information listed
in this paragraph under 5 U.S.C. 552(a) and 1 CFR part 51.
(2) You must use this service information as applicable to do
the actions required by this AD, unless the AD specifies otherwise.
(i) Boeing Special Attention Service Bulletin 737-53-1315,
Revision 1, dated June 30, 2015.
(ii) Reserved.
(3) For Boeing service information identified in this AD,
contact Boeing Commercial Airplanes, Attention: Contractual & Data
Services (C&DS), 2600 Westminster Blvd., MC 110-SK57, Seal Beach, CA
90740-5600; telephone 562-797-1717; Internet https://www.myboeingfleet.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 January 31, 2017.
Michael Kaszycki,
Acting Manager, Transport Airplane Directorate, Aircraft Certification
Service.
[FR Doc. 2017-02661 Filed 2-17-17; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE 4910-13-P
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