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]
=======================================================================
-----------------------------------------------------------------------
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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