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Published 2017-02-16 · Federal Register document 2017-03112

Airworthiness Directives; The Boeing Company Airplanes

Publication summary

We are superseding Airworthiness Directive (AD) 2005-13-30, for all The Boeing Company Model 737-100, -200, and -200C series airplanes. AD 2005-13-30 required repetitive inspections to detect discrepancies of certain fuselage skin panels located just aft of the wheel well, and repair if necessary. This new AD adds 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. This AD was prompted by an evaluation by the design approval holder (DAH) indicating 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 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[37]
Raw source SHA-256
90ba553c3b802c5316e8d18f30db5da9f7731a87f58278ec2965f199ef4375e9

Final-rule publication

Recorded publication clauses

AD identifier printed in this edition
2017-02-02
Effective date printed in this edition
2017-03-23
Read 17 complete recorded clauses
Effective Date
(a) Effective Date

    This AD is effective March 23, 2017.

Exact source excerpt. Text positions 16543–16605, end exclusive, in the original decoded publication. SHA-256: 523dc368d356c4e3abb19fbeb1b5018ecf7949685935b8e55356a07ac54415e5

Affected ADs
(b) Affected ADs

    This AD replaces AD 2005-13-30, Amendment 39-14167 (70 FR 36829, 
June 27, 2005) (``AD 2005-13-30'').

[[Page 10858]]

Exact source excerpt. Text positions 16605–16746, end exclusive, in the original decoded publication. SHA-256: 5d90c0b2087f67c88b35e115a09ccef86c2522a31f490d434fcc562e8b0e24ff

Applicability wording · Applicability
(c) Applicability

    This AD applies to all The Boeing Company Model 737-100, -200, 
and -200C series airplanes, certificated in any category.

Exact source excerpt. Text positions 16746–16892, end exclusive, in the original decoded publication. SHA-256: 0589ee5bf863a0ea2ff128ae22ce2ce045eea17b6b53cb9f398c417db1aa87de

Subject
(d) Subject

    Air Transport Association (ATA) of America Code 53, Fuselage.

Exact source excerpt. Text positions 16892–16972, end exclusive, in the original decoded publication. SHA-256: 297e69b8a6e159f28612e8bd82a91daa2fd8fd1d9d38af67161f67738908fa6c

Unsafe Condition
(e) Unsafe Condition

    This AD was prompted by an evaluation by the design approval 
holder indicating that the fuselage skin is subject to widespread 
fatigue damage, and reports of cracks at the chem-milled steps in 
the fuselage skin. We are issuing this AD to detect and correct 
fatigue cracking of the fuselage skin panels, which could cause 
rapid decompression of the airplane.

Exact source excerpt. Text positions 16972–17362, end exclusive, in the original decoded publication. SHA-256: 6433f006bf6f41f858317797c5d22700be89b2eb1c363da592d38db993ad7e72

Compliance
(f) Compliance

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

Exact source excerpt. Text positions 17362–17464, end exclusive, in the original decoded publication. SHA-256: 00fbfa31932483f627d0ce0a11cbd2e35e15d9231842b91ac85623ce533912d3

Actions for Group 1 Airplanes
(g) Actions for Group 1 Airplanes

    For Group 1 airplanes identified in Boeing Special Attention 
Service Bulletin 737-53-1065, Revision 3, dated June 30, 2015 
(``SASB 737-53-1065, R3''): Within 120 days after the effective date 
of this AD, accomplish actions to correct the unsafe condition 
(e.g., inspections, repairs, modifications, and related 
investigative and corrective actions) using a method approved in 
accordance with the procedures specified in paragraph (o) of this 
AD.

Exact source excerpt. Text positions 17464–17957, end exclusive, in the original decoded publication. SHA-256: 1f3b81c655425cb3a679f87efb6b17c191fb9ad34f4fa3153d0b2ee7655755c9

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

    Except for Group 1 airplanes identified in SASB 737-53-1065, R3: 
At the applicable times specified in tables 1 and 2 of paragraph 
1.E., ``Compliance,'' of SASB 737-53-1065, R3, except as required by 
paragraphs (i)(1) and (i)(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 737-53-1065, 
R3, except as required by paragraphs (i)(3) and (i)(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 in SASB 737-53-1065, R3. 
Accomplishment of a repair in accordance with ``Part 3: Repair'' of 
the Accomplishment Instructions of SASB 737-53-1065, R3, except as 
required by paragraph (i)(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 17957–19045, end exclusive, in the original decoded publication. SHA-256: 60018a738d0b06aa9128dbadbf1b2d44656578f7db6e84a1c338a207344aa338

Exceptions to SASB 737-53-1065, R3
(i) Exceptions to SASB 737-53-1065, R3

    (1) Where SASB 737-53-1065, R3 specifies compliance times 
``after the Revision 3 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 paragraph 1.E., ``Compliance,'' of 
SASB 737-53-1065, R3 refers to airplanes in certain configurations 
as of the ``issue date of Revision 3 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 737-53-1065, R3 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 (o) of this 
AD, except as required by paragraph (i)(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 59,000 total 
flight cycles: At the applicable time for the next inspection as 
specified in tables 1 and 2 of paragraph 1.E., ``Compliance,'' of 
SASB 737-53-1065, R3, except as provided by paragraphs (i)(1) and 
(i)(2) of this AD, perform inspections and applicable corrective 
actions using a method approved in accordance with the procedures 
specified in paragraph (o) of this AD.

Exact source excerpt. Text positions 19045–20458, end exclusive, in the original decoded publication. SHA-256: aca4b63f3c8806f6d584cff7159aec710c8f1dd3284a2f12e5edb9fad93b6fd2

Actions for Airplanes With a Time Limited Repair Installed
(j) Actions for Airplanes With a Time Limited Repair Installed

    Except for Group 1 airplanes identified in SASB 737-53-1065, R3: 
Do the applicable actions required by paragraphs (j)(1) and (j)(2) 
of this AD.
    (1) For airplanes with a time limited repair installed as 
specified in Boeing Special Attention Service Bulletin 737-53-1065, 
Revision 2, dated April 19, 2001: At the applicable times specified 
in table 3 of paragraph 1.E., ``Compliance,'' of SASB 737-53-1065, 
R3, except as provided by paragraphs (i)(1) and (i)(2) of this AD, 
do the actions specified in paragraphs (j)(1)(i) and (j)(1)(ii) of 
this AD.
    (i) 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 737-53-1065, 
R3, except as required by paragraph (i)(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 in SASB 737-53-1065, R3.
    (ii) Make the time limited repair permanent; and do all 
applicable related investigative and corrective actions; in 
accordance the Accomplishment Instructions of SASB 737-53-1065, R3, 
except as required by paragraph (i)(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 (j)(1)(i) of this 
AD for the permanently repaired area only.
    (2) For airplanes with a time limited repair installed as 
specified in SASB 737-53-1065, R3: At the applicable times specified 
in table 4 of paragraph 1.E., ``Compliance,'' of SASB 737-53-1065, 
R3, do the actions specified in paragraphs (j)(2)(i) and (j)(2)(ii) 
of this AD.
    (i) 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 737-53-1065, 
R3, except as required by paragraph (i)(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 in SASB 737-53-1065, R3.
    (ii) Make the time limited repair permanent; and do all 
applicable related investigative and corrective actions; in 
accordance the Accomplishment Instructions of SASB 737-53-1065, R3, 
except as required by paragraph (i)(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 (j)(2)(i) of this 
AD for the permanently repaired area only.

Exact source excerpt. Text positions 20458–23421, end exclusive, in the original decoded publication. SHA-256: 41ba128a3ab7450131a70e46a22fccc599f90b9cc27ca704e2938d00227e9c60

Modification of Certain Permanent Repairs
(k) Modification of Certain Permanent Repairs

    Except for Group 1 airplanes identified in SASB 737-53-1065, R3: 
For airplanes with an existing time limited repair that was made 
permanent as specified in Boeing Special Attention Service Bulletin 
737-53-1065, Revision 2, dated April 19, 2001, at the applicable 
times specified in table 5 of paragraph 1.E., ``Compliance,'' of 
SASB 737-53-1065, R3, except as required by paragraph (i)(1) of this 
AD, modify the existing permanent repair; and do all applicable 
related investigative and corrective actions; in accordance the 
Accomplishment Instructions of SASB 737-53-1065, R3, except as 
required by paragraph (i)(3) of this AD. Do all applicable related 
investigative and corrective actions before further flight.

Exact source excerpt. Text positions 23421–24198, end exclusive, in the original decoded publication. SHA-256: 5eb73f2dc80b7c1b3e410a25557cc85d119835b50db88234af79c0498237a21d

Post-Modification Inspections
(l) Post-Modification Inspections

    Table 6 of paragraph 1.E., ``Compliance,'' of SASB 737-53-1065, 
R3 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 24198–24781, end exclusive, in the original decoded publication. SHA-256: 01aa4f7792153fa3a952e3de704ccb4c21f1333a8f513e6a6be0f5d9a672a9a6

Skin Panel Replacement
(m) Skin Panel Replacement

    Except for Group 1 airplanes identified in SASB 737-53-1065, R3: 
At the later of the times specified in paragraphs (m)(1) and (m)(2) 
of this AD, replace the applicable skin panels, in accordance with 
the Part 8 of the Accomplishment Instructions of SASB 737-53-1065, 
R3. Doing the skin panel replacement required by this paragraph 
terminates the inspection requirements of paragraph (h) of this AD 
for that skin panel only, provided the skin panel was replaced with 
a production skin panel at or after 59,000 total flight cycles.
    (1) Before 60,000 total flight cycles, but not before 59,000 
total flight cycles.
    (2) Within 6,000 flight cycles after the effective date of this 
AD, but not before 59,000 total flight cycles.

[[Page 10859]]

Exact source excerpt. Text positions 24781–25570, end exclusive, in the original decoded publication. SHA-256: 3ece79e717122e2f35a65031265bb9fddb819b37751b346fb3bb23c592ec9c6f

Credit for Previous Actions
(n) Credit for Previous Actions

    This paragraph provides credit for the actions required by 
paragraph (h) of this AD, if those actions were performed before the 
effective date of this AD using Boeing Special Attention Service 
Bulletin 737-53-1065, Revision 2, dated April 19, 2001, which was 
incorporated by reference in AD 2005-13-30.

Exact source excerpt. Text positions 25570–25915, end exclusive, in the original decoded publication. SHA-256: cc8a34cdd9e0bc30b6fec6e095f0d303f47fbd7a6ce899b4914447b7e560cdb2

Alternative Methods of Compliance (AMOCs)
(o) 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 (p) 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 2005-13-30, are approved as 
AMOCs for the corresponding provisions of paragraph (h) of this AD.

Exact source excerpt. Text positions 25915–27341, end exclusive, in the original decoded publication. SHA-256: d79eb7099a02fff0fbac11bda5fb89991f2e76f4f97fda712be4dcd9ce620911

Related Information
(p) Related Information

    For more information about this AD, contact Jennifer 
Tsakoumakis, Aerospace Engineer, Airframe Branch, ANM-120L, FAA, Los 
Angeles ACO, 3960 Paramount Boulevard, Lakewood, CA 90712-4137; 
phone: 562-627-5264; fax: 562-627-5210; email: 
[email protected].

Exact source excerpt. Text positions 27341–27627, end exclusive, in the original decoded publication. SHA-256: f7ecd3fece5476ac40fda7cfe52623c0ae3e382e8d03f0c2aa60b6ee83364da4

Material Incorporated by Reference
(q) 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 737-53-1065, 
Revision 3, 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 27627–28892, end exclusive, in the original decoded publication. SHA-256: ee98e0721cb2473de814a7b18dca04cfa7e74ac4dce5422e4c3548f032364181

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 2017-02-02 · 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: 6efb1d7b625679461dbe352ddc062a6fef41cd7ca6057968cf3ad45f33bbef91. Source manifest: 39882a2a1180bdb68ee2f76b415e833b21560ae530406601aacf61794082d2b5.

Official source · 2017-02-16

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 31 (Thursday, February 16, 2017)]
[Rules and Regulations]
[Pages 10855-10859]
From the Federal Register Online via the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]
[FR Doc No: 2017-03112]


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DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION

Federal Aviation Administration

14 CFR Part 39

[Docket No. FAA-2016-6430; Directorate Identifier 2015-NM-176-AD; 
Amendment 39-18781; AD 2017-02-02]
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) 2005-13-30, 
for all The Boeing Company Model 737-100, -200, and -200C series 
airplanes. AD 2005-13-30 required repetitive inspections to detect 
discrepancies of certain fuselage skin panels located just aft of the 
wheel well, and repair if necessary. This new AD adds 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. This AD was prompted 
by an evaluation by the design approval holder (DAH) indicating 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 address the unsafe condition on these products.

DATES: This AD is effective March 23, 2017.
    The Director of the Federal Register approved the incorporation by 
reference of a certain publication listed in this AD as of March 23, 
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-
6430.

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-
6430; 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

[[Page 10856]]

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 2005-13-30, Amendment 39-14167 (70 FR 36829, 
June 27, 2005) (``AD 2005-13-30''). AD 2005-13-30 applied to all Boeing 
Model 737-100, -200, and -200C series airplanes. The NPRM published in 
the Federal Register on May 11, 2016 (81 FR 29202) (``the NPRM''). The 
NPRM was prompted by an evaluation by the DAH indicating 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 require 
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 fatigue cracking of the fuselage 
skin panels, which could cause 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 Revise Compliance Time

    Boeing requested that we revise paragraph (i)(4) of the proposed AD 
to specify that the exception to the service information is for 
airplanes on which an operator has a record that a skin panel was 
replaced with a production skin panel ``before'' 59,000 total flight 
cycles, instead of ``at or before'' 59,000 total flight cycles, because 
of limit of validity (LOV) issues. Boeing also requested that we revise 
the condition statement regarding the time the skin panel was replaced 
in paragraph (m) of the proposed AD from ``after'' 59,000 total flight 
cycles to ``at or after'' 59,000 total flight cycles; and in paragraphs 
(m)(1) and (m)(2) of the proposed AD from ``at or before'' to 
``before.'' Boeing explained that if a skin panel is replaced at or 
after 59,000 total flight cycles, no additional safety inspections 
would be needed due to the LOV. Boeing stated that upon reaching the 
LOV the airplane will be retired domestically and no longer supported 
by Boeing.
    Boeing also requested that we revise the compliance time for the 
skin panel replacement in paragraph (i)(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 stated that since a Boeing Commercial Airplanes Organization 
Designation Authorization (ODA) representative cannot approve 
extensions to the compliance times required by an AD, the AMOC approval 
would have to come from the FAA.
    We partially agree with Boeing's requests. We agree to change the 
identification of the affected airplanes as requested by Boeing in 
paragraphs (i)(4), (m), (m)(1), and (m)(2) of this AD. These changes 
will address the LOV issues expressed by Boeing. We do not agree with 
changing the compliance time from the applicable time for the next 
inspection as specified in the service information. We have determined 
that this is an appropriate compliance time and provides an acceptable 
level of safety. It also provides operators with sufficient information 
for maintenance planning purposes.

Request To Revise Instructions for Skin Panel Replacement

    Boeing requested that we revise paragraph (m) of the proposed AD, 
which specifies replacing the applicable skin panels and doing all 
applicable related investigative and corrective actions, with replacing 
the skin panels in accordance with Part 8 of the Accomplishment 
Instructions of Boeing Special Attention Service Bulletin 737-53-1065, 
Revision 3, dated June 30, 2015 (``SASB 737-53-1065, R3'').
    We agree with replacing the skin panels in accordance with Part 8 
of the Accomplishment Instructions of SASB 737-53-1065, R3. Part 8 of 
the Accomplishment Instructions of SASB 737-53-1065, R3 adequately 
specifies the required actions. We have revised paragraph (m) of this 
AD accordingly.

Request To Add Service Information Paragraph Part References

    Boeing requested that we revise paragraphs (j)(1)(ii), (j)(2)(ii), 
and (k) of the proposed AD by adding the service information paragraph 
part references. Boeing stated that paragraph (h) of the proposed AD 
includes the part reference.
    We do not agree with Boeing's requests. Paragraph (h) 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 (l) of the proposed AD to 
specify that table 6 of paragraph 1.E., ``Compliance,'' of SASB 737-53-
1065, R3 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 (l) of 
this AD accordingly.

Request To Revise the NPRM To Address Certain Repaired Areas

    For airplanes subject to the requirements of paragraph (h) 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 (h) of this AD 
specifies to do the applicable inspections and related investigative 
and corrective actions specified in the Accomplishment Instructions of 
SASB 737-53-1065, R3. This service information already contains the 
criteria Boeing proposed. Therefore, the criteria do not need to be 
repeated in this AD. We have not changed this 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 for correcting the unsafe condition; and

[[Page 10857]]

    <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 737-53-1065, R3. The service information describes 
procedures for inspection and repair of the fuselage skin panels 
between body station (BS) 727 and BS 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 9 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
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Inspection [actions retained from  Up to 88 work-hours x            $0  Up to $7,480 per     Up to $67,320 per
 AD 2005-13-30].                    $85 per hour = $7,480                inspection cycle.    inspection cycle.
                                    per inspection cycle.
Inspection [new action]..........  Up to 1,914 work-hours x          0  Up to $162,690 per   Up to $1,464,210
                                    $85 per hour = $162,690              inspection cycle.    per inspection
                                    per inspection cycle.                                     cycle.
Skin panel replacement [new        688 work-hours x $85 per     96,000  $154,480...........  $1,390,320.
 action].                           hour = $58,480.
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

    We estimate the following costs to do any necessary repairs that 
will 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
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                                         Parts       Cost per
                    Action                                    Labor cost                  cost        product
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Time-limited repair...........................  24 work-hours x $85 per hour = $2,040      (\1\)      \1\ $2,040
Permanent repair..............................  43 work-hours x $85 per hour = $3,655      (\1\)       \1\ 3,655
Permanent repair inspection...................  7 work-hours x $85 per hour = $595...      (\1\)         \1\ 595
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
\1\ We have received no definitive data that will enable us to provide parts cost estimates for the on-condition
  actions specified in this AD.

    According to the manufacturer, some of the costs of this AD may be 
covered under warranty, thereby reducing the cost impact on affected 
individuals. We do not control warranty coverage for affected 
individuals. As a result, we have included all costs in our cost 
estimate.

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) 
2005-13-30, Amendment 39-14167 (70 FR 36829, June 27, 2005), and adding 
the following new AD:

2017-02-02 The Boeing Company: Amendment 39-18781; Docket No. FAA-
2016-6430; Directorate Identifier 2015-NM-176-AD.

(a) Effective Date

    This AD is effective March 23, 2017.

(b) Affected ADs

    This AD replaces AD 2005-13-30, Amendment 39-14167 (70 FR 36829, 
June 27, 2005) (``AD 2005-13-30'').

[[Page 10858]]

(c) Applicability

    This AD applies to all The Boeing Company Model 737-100, -200, 
and -200C series airplanes, certificated in any category.

(d) Subject

    Air Transport Association (ATA) of America Code 53, Fuselage.

(e) Unsafe Condition

    This AD was prompted by an evaluation by the design approval 
holder indicating that the fuselage skin is subject to widespread 
fatigue damage, and reports of cracks at the chem-milled steps in 
the fuselage skin. We are issuing this AD to detect and correct 
fatigue cracking of the fuselage skin panels, which could cause 
rapid decompression of the airplane.

(f) Compliance

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

(g) Actions for Group 1 Airplanes

    For Group 1 airplanes identified in Boeing Special Attention 
Service Bulletin 737-53-1065, Revision 3, dated June 30, 2015 
(``SASB 737-53-1065, R3''): Within 120 days after the effective date 
of this AD, accomplish actions to correct the unsafe condition 
(e.g., inspections, repairs, modifications, and related 
investigative and corrective actions) using a method approved in 
accordance with the procedures specified in paragraph (o) of this 
AD.

(h) Inspections, Related Investigative and Corrective Actions

    Except for Group 1 airplanes identified in SASB 737-53-1065, R3: 
At the applicable times specified in tables 1 and 2 of paragraph 
1.E., ``Compliance,'' of SASB 737-53-1065, R3, except as required by 
paragraphs (i)(1) and (i)(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 737-53-1065, 
R3, except as required by paragraphs (i)(3) and (i)(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 in SASB 737-53-1065, R3. 
Accomplishment of a repair in accordance with ``Part 3: Repair'' of 
the Accomplishment Instructions of SASB 737-53-1065, R3, except as 
required by paragraph (i)(3) of this AD, is terminating action for 
the repetitive inspections required by this paragraph at the 
repaired locations only.

(i) Exceptions to SASB 737-53-1065, R3

    (1) Where SASB 737-53-1065, R3 specifies compliance times 
``after the Revision 3 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 paragraph 1.E., ``Compliance,'' of 
SASB 737-53-1065, R3 refers to airplanes in certain configurations 
as of the ``issue date of Revision 3 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 737-53-1065, R3 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 (o) of this 
AD, except as required by paragraph (i)(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 59,000 total 
flight cycles: At the applicable time for the next inspection as 
specified in tables 1 and 2 of paragraph 1.E., ``Compliance,'' of 
SASB 737-53-1065, R3, except as provided by paragraphs (i)(1) and 
(i)(2) of this AD, perform inspections and applicable corrective 
actions using a method approved in accordance with the procedures 
specified in paragraph (o) of this AD.

(j) Actions for Airplanes With a Time Limited Repair Installed

    Except for Group 1 airplanes identified in SASB 737-53-1065, R3: 
Do the applicable actions required by paragraphs (j)(1) and (j)(2) 
of this AD.
    (1) For airplanes with a time limited repair installed as 
specified in Boeing Special Attention Service Bulletin 737-53-1065, 
Revision 2, dated April 19, 2001: At the applicable times specified 
in table 3 of paragraph 1.E., ``Compliance,'' of SASB 737-53-1065, 
R3, except as provided by paragraphs (i)(1) and (i)(2) of this AD, 
do the actions specified in paragraphs (j)(1)(i) and (j)(1)(ii) of 
this AD.
    (i) 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 737-53-1065, 
R3, except as required by paragraph (i)(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 in SASB 737-53-1065, R3.
    (ii) Make the time limited repair permanent; and do all 
applicable related investigative and corrective actions; in 
accordance the Accomplishment Instructions of SASB 737-53-1065, R3, 
except as required by paragraph (i)(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 (j)(1)(i) of this 
AD for the permanently repaired area only.
    (2) For airplanes with a time limited repair installed as 
specified in SASB 737-53-1065, R3: At the applicable times specified 
in table 4 of paragraph 1.E., ``Compliance,'' of SASB 737-53-1065, 
R3, do the actions specified in paragraphs (j)(2)(i) and (j)(2)(ii) 
of this AD.
    (i) 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 737-53-1065, 
R3, except as required by paragraph (i)(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 in SASB 737-53-1065, R3.
    (ii) Make the time limited repair permanent; and do all 
applicable related investigative and corrective actions; in 
accordance the Accomplishment Instructions of SASB 737-53-1065, R3, 
except as required by paragraph (i)(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 (j)(2)(i) of this 
AD for the permanently repaired area only.

(k) Modification of Certain Permanent Repairs

    Except for Group 1 airplanes identified in SASB 737-53-1065, R3: 
For airplanes with an existing time limited repair that was made 
permanent as specified in Boeing Special Attention Service Bulletin 
737-53-1065, Revision 2, dated April 19, 2001, at the applicable 
times specified in table 5 of paragraph 1.E., ``Compliance,'' of 
SASB 737-53-1065, R3, except as required by paragraph (i)(1) of this 
AD, modify the existing permanent repair; and do all applicable 
related investigative and corrective actions; in accordance the 
Accomplishment Instructions of SASB 737-53-1065, R3, except as 
required by paragraph (i)(3) of this AD. Do all applicable related 
investigative and corrective actions before further flight.

(l) Post-Modification Inspections

    Table 6 of paragraph 1.E., ``Compliance,'' of SASB 737-53-1065, 
R3 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.

(m) Skin Panel Replacement

    Except for Group 1 airplanes identified in SASB 737-53-1065, R3: 
At the later of the times specified in paragraphs (m)(1) and (m)(2) 
of this AD, replace the applicable skin panels, in accordance with 
the Part 8 of the Accomplishment Instructions of SASB 737-53-1065, 
R3. Doing the skin panel replacement required by this paragraph 
terminates the inspection requirements of paragraph (h) of this AD 
for that skin panel only, provided the skin panel was replaced with 
a production skin panel at or after 59,000 total flight cycles.
    (1) Before 60,000 total flight cycles, but not before 59,000 
total flight cycles.
    (2) Within 6,000 flight cycles after the effective date of this 
AD, but not before 59,000 total flight cycles.

[[Page 10859]]

(n) Credit for Previous Actions

    This paragraph provides credit for the actions required by 
paragraph (h) of this AD, if those actions were performed before the 
effective date of this AD using Boeing Special Attention Service 
Bulletin 737-53-1065, Revision 2, dated April 19, 2001, which was 
incorporated by reference in AD 2005-13-30.

(o) 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 (p) 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 2005-13-30, are approved as 
AMOCs for the corresponding provisions of paragraph (h) of this AD.

(p) Related Information

    For more information about this AD, contact Jennifer 
Tsakoumakis, Aerospace Engineer, Airframe Branch, ANM-120L, FAA, Los 
Angeles ACO, 3960 Paramount Boulevard, Lakewood, CA 90712-4137; 
phone: 562-627-5264; fax: 562-627-5210; email: 
[email protected].

(q) 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 737-53-1065, 
Revision 3, 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 11, 2017.
Michael Kaszycki,
Acting Manager, Transport Airplane Directorate, Aircraft Certification 
Service.
[FR Doc. 2017-03112 Filed 2-15-17; 8:45 am]
 BILLING CODE 4910-13-P


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