Airworthiness Directives; The Boeing Company Airplanes

[Federal Register Volume 88, Number 118 (Wednesday, June 21, 2023)]
[Rules and Regulations]
[Pages 40023-40058]
From the Federal Register Online via the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]
[FR Doc No: 2023-13155]


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

DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION

Federal Aviation Administration

14 CFR Part 39

[Docket No. FAA-2023-0923; Project Identifier AD-2022-01432-T; 
Amendment 39-22473; AD 2023-12-15]
RIN 2120-AA64


Airworthiness Directives; The Boeing Company Airplanes

AGENCY: Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), DOT.

ACTION: Final rule.

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

SUMMARY: The FAA is superseding Airworthiness Directive (AD) 2022-09-
18, which applied to all The Boeing Company Model 707, 717, and 727 
airplanes; Model DC-8, DC-9, and DC-10 airplanes; Model MD-10 and MD-11 
airplanes; Model DC-9-81 (MD-81), DC-9-82 (MD-82), DC-9-83 (MD-83), DC-
9-87 (MD-87), and MD-88 airplanes; and Model MD 90-30 airplanes. AD 
2022-09-18 required revising the limitations and operating procedures 
sections of the existing airplane flight manual (AFM) to incorporate 
specific operating procedures for, depending on the airplane model, 
instrument landing system (ILS) approaches, non-precision approaches, 
ground spoiler deployment, and go-around and missed approaches, when in 
the presence of interference from wireless broadband operations in the 
3.7-3.98 GHz frequency band (5G C-Band) as identified by Notices to Air 
Missions (NOTAMs). Since the FAA issued AD 2022-09-18, the FAA 
determined that additional limitations are needed due to the continued 
deployment of new 5G C-Band stations whose signals are expected to 
cover most of the contiguous United States at transmission frequencies 
between 3.7-3.98 GHz. This AD requires revising the limitations and 
operating procedures

[[Page 40024]]

sections of the AFM to incorporate specific operating procedures for, 
depending on the airplane model, ILS approaches, non-precision 
approaches, ground spoiler deployment, and go-around and missed 
approaches, due to the presence of 5G C-Band interference. The FAA is 
issuing this AD to address the unsafe condition on these products.

DATES: This AD is effective June 21, 2023.

ADDRESSES: AD Docket: You may examine the AD docket at regulations.gov 
under Docket No. FAA-2023-0923; or in person at Docket Operations 
between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m., Monday through Friday, except Federal 
holidays. The AD docket contains this final rule, any comments 
received, and other information. The address for Docket Operations is 
U.S. Department of Transportation, Docket Operations, M-30, West 
Building Ground Floor, Room W12-140, 1200 New Jersey Avenue SE, 
Washington, DC 20590.

FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Brett Portwood, Continued Operational 
Safety Technical Advisor, COS Program Management Section, Operational 
Safety Branch, FAA, 3960 Paramount Boulevard, Lakewood, CA 90712-4137; 
phone: 817-222-5390; email: [email protected].

SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: 

Background

    The FAA issued a notice of proposed rulemaking (NPRM) to amend 14 
CFR part 39 to supersede AD 2022-09-18, Amendment 39-22038 (87 FR 
31097, May 23, 2022) (AD 2022-09-18). AD 2022-09-18 applied to all The 
Boeing Company (Boeing) Model 707, 717, and 727 airplanes; Model DC-8, 
DC-9, and DC-10 airplanes; Model MD-10 and MD-11 airplanes; Model DC-9-
81 (MD-81), DC-9-82 (MD-82), DC-9-83 (MD-83), DC-9-87 (MD-87), and MD-
88 airplanes; and Model MD 90-30 airplanes. The NPRM published in the 
Federal Register on May 3, 2023 (88 FR 27749). The NPRM was prompted by 
a determination that radio altimeters cannot be relied upon to perform 
their intended function if they experience 5G C-Band interference, and 
a determination that during approach, landings, and go-arounds, as a 
result of this interference, certain airplane systems may not properly 
function, resulting in increased flightcrew workload while on approach 
with the flight director, autothrottle, or autopilot engaged.
    In the NPRM, the FAA proposed to retain the AFM revisions required 
by AD 2022-09-18 until June 30, 2023. On or before June 30, 2023, the 
FAA proposed to require replacing those AFM revisions with limitations 
requiring the same procedures for, depending on the airplane model, ILS 
approaches, non-precision approaches, ground spoiler deployment, and 
go-around and missed approaches, at all airports for non-radio 
altimeter tolerant airplanes. For radio altimeter tolerant airplanes, 
the FAA proposed that the procedures would not be required at 5G C-Band 
mitigated airports (5G CMAs) as identified in an FAA Domestic Notice. 
The FAA proposed this AD to address 5G C-Band interference that could 
result in increased flightcrew workload and could lead to reduced 
ability of the flightcrew to maintain safe flight and landing of the 
airplane.

Discussion of Final Airworthiness Directive

Comments

    The FAA provided the public with an opportunity to comment on the 
proposed AD and received comments from three commenters. The following 
presents the comments received on the NPRM and the FAA's response to 
each comment.

Support for NPRM

    Boeing and the Air Line Pilots Association, International (ALPA), 
supported the NPRM without change.
    The supportive comments from ALPA included additional viewpoints 
without a suggestion specific to the AD or a request the FAA can act 
on. These comments are outside the scope of this final rule.

Request To Extend Compliance Time

    Comment summary: American Airlines expressed concern regarding the 
compliance time for the proposed actions and requested the FAA revise 
the AD to provide a minimum of 30 days from the effective date of the 
AD.
    FAA response: The FAA understands the commenter's concern and made 
every effort to publish this AD as soon as possible. After refraining 
from operating at their FCC-authorized levels for a year and a half, 
wireless companies are now able to operate at higher levels, yet still 
not at the levels authorized. Specifically, wireless companies expect 
to operate their networks in urban areas with minimal restrictions due 
to the completion of retrofits. Additionally, the FAA anticipates 19 
additional telecommunication companies will begin transmitting in the 
C-Band after June 30, 2023. Although the FAA continues to work with the 
companies that intend to transmit in the 3.7-3.98-GHz band near 5G 
CMAs, the FAA has no agreement with those companies to provide the FAA 
with tower locations and other information necessary to support the 
current NOTAM/AMOC process. Therefore, the FAA will not be able to 
extend the June 30, 2023, date.

Conclusion

    The FAA reviewed the relevant data, considered any comments 
received, and determined that air safety requires adopting this AD as 
proposed. Accordingly, the FAA is issuing this AD to address the unsafe 
condition on these products. This AD is adopted as proposed in the 
NPRM.

Interim Action

    The FAA considers this AD to be an interim action. Once the 
Technical Standard Order (TSO) standard for radio altimeters is 
established, which will follow the existing international technical 
consensus on the establishment of the minimum operational performance 
standards (MOPS), the FAA anticipates that the MOPS will be 
incorporated into the TSO. Once a new radio altimeter TSO is developed, 
approved, and available, the FAA might consider additional rulemaking.

Effective Date

    Section 553(d) of the Administrative Procedure Act (APA) (5 U.S.C. 
551 et seq.) requires publication of a rule not less than 30 days 
before its effective date. However, section 553(d) authorizes agencies 
to make rules effective in less than 30 days when the agency finds 
``good cause.'' Radio altimeters cannot be relied upon to perform their 
intended function if they experience interference from wireless 
broadband operations in the 5G C-Band. This interference can cause 
other airplane systems to not properly function, resulting in increased 
flightcrew workload while on approach with the flight director, 
autothrottle, or autopilot engaged. To address this unsafe condition, 
the actions required by this AD must be accomplished before the 
compliance date of June 30, 2023. The FAA based this date on the 
changes to the 5G C-Band environment beginning on July 1, 2023. These 
changes include increased wireless broadband deployment and 
transmissions closer to the parameters authorized by the FCC. The 
earlier operators learn of the requirements in this AD, the earlier 
they can take action to ensure compliance. An effective date less than 
30 days would ensure the AD is codified earlier, thereby increasing 
awareness of its requirements. Therefore, the FAA finds that good cause 
exists pursuant to 5 U.S.C. 553(d)

[[Page 40025]]

for making this amendment immediately effective.

Costs of Compliance

    The cost information below describes the costs to change the AFM. 
Although this AD largely maintains the AFM limitations currently 
required by AD 2022-09-18, the FAA acknowledges that this AD may also 
impose costs on some aircraft operators from having to change their 
conduct to comply with the amended AFM. However, the FAA lacks the data 
necessary to quantify the costs associated with aircraft operators 
changing their conduct.
    The FAA estimates that this AD affects 476 airplanes of U.S. 
registry. The FAA estimates the following costs to comply with this AD:

                                                 Estimated Costs
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                                     Cost per      Cost on U.S.
                Action                         Labor cost           Parts cost        product        operators
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
AFM revision (retained actions from AD  1 work-hour x $85 per                 $0             $85         $40,460
 2022-09-18).                            hour \1\ = $85.
New AFM revisions (new action)........  1 work-hour x $85 per                  0              85      \2\ 40,460
                                         hour = $85.
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
\1\ The labor rate of $85 per hour is the average wage rate for an aviation mechanic.
\2\ The estimated cost for this revision would not constitute a significant economic impact (even for small
  entities) because $85 is a minimal cost compared to the regular costs of maintaining and operating a 707, 717,
  727, DC-8, DC-9, DC-10, MD 10, MD-11, DC-9-81, DC-9-82, DC-9-83, DC-9-87, MD-88, or MD-90-30 transport
  category airplane.

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.
    The FAA is 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

    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) Will not affect intrastate aviation in Alaska, and
    (3) 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.

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:
0
a. Removing Airworthiness Directive (AD) 2022-09-18, Amendment 39-22038 
(87 FR 31097, May 23, 2022), and
0
b. Adding the following new AD:

2023-12-15 The Boeing Company: Amendment 39-22473; Docket No. FAA-
2023-0923; Project Identifier AD-2022-01432-T.

(a) Effective Date

    This airworthiness directive (AD) is effective June 21, 2023.

(b) Affected ADs

    This AD replaces AD 2022-09-18, Amendment 39-22038 (87 FR 31097, 
May 23, 2022) (AD 2022-09-18).

(c) Applicability

    This AD applies to all The Boeing Company airplanes identified 
in paragraphs (c)(1) through (9) of this AD, certificated in any 
category.
    (1) Model 707-100 Long Body, -200, -100B Long Body, and -100B 
Short Body series airplanes, and Model 707-300, -300B, -300C, and -
400 series airplanes.
    (2) Model 717-200 airplanes.
    (3) Model 727, 727C, 727-100, 727-100C, 727-200, and 727-200F 
series airplanes.
    (4) Model DC-8-11, DC-8-12, DC-8-21, DC-8-31, DC-8-32, DC-8-33, 
DC-8-41, DC-8-42, DC-8-43, DC-8-51, DC-8-52, DC-8-53, DC-8-55, DC-
8F-54, DC-8F-55, DC-8-61, DC-8-62, DC-8-63, DC-8-61F, DC-8-62F, DC-
8-63F, DC-8-71, DC-8-72, DC-8-73, DC-8-71F, DC-8-72F, and DC-8-73F 
airplanes.
    (5) Model DC-9-11, DC-9-12, DC-9-13, DC-9-14, DC-9-15, DC-9-15F, 
DC-9-21, DC-9-31, DC-9-32, DC-9-32 (VC-9C), DC-9-32F, DC-9-32F (C-
9A, C-9B), DC-9-33F, DC-9-34, DC-9-34F, DC-9-41, and DC-9-51 
airplanes.
    (6) Model DC-10-10, DC-10-10F, DC-10-15, DC-10-30, DC-10-30F 
(KC-10A and KDC-10), DC-10-40, and DC-10-40F airplanes.
    (7) Model MD-10-10F and MD-10-30F airplanes.
    (8) Model MD-11 and MD-11F airplanes.
    (9) Model DC-9-81 (MD-81), DC-9-82 (MD-82), DC-9-83 (MD-83), DC-
9-87 (MD-87), MD-88, and MD-90-30 airplanes.

(d) Subject

    Air Transport Association (ATA) of America Code 34, Navigation.

(e) Unsafe Condition

    This AD was prompted by a determination that radio altimeters 
cannot be relied upon to perform their intended function if they 
experience interference from wireless broadband operations in the 
3.7-3.98 GHz frequency band (5G C-Band), and a determination that 
during approach, landings, and go-arounds, as a result of this 
interference, certain airplane systems may not properly function, 
resulting in increased flightcrew workload while on approach with 
the flight director, autothrottle, or autopilot engaged. The FAA is 
issuing this AD to address 5G C-Band interference that could result 
in increased flightcrew workload and could lead to reduced ability 
of the flightcrew to maintain safe flight and landing of the 
airplane.

(f) Compliance

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

(g) Definitions

    (1) For purposes of this AD, a ``5G C-Band mitigated airport'' 
(5G CMA) is an airport at

[[Page 40026]]

which the telecommunications companies have agreed to voluntarily 
limit their 5G deployment at the request of the FAA, as identified 
by an FAA Domestic Notice.
    (2) For purposes of this AD, a ``radio altimeter tolerant 
airplane'' is one for which the radio altimeter, as installed, 
demonstrates the tolerances specified in paragraphs (g)(2)(i) and 
(ii) of this AD, using a method approved by the FAA.
    (i) Tolerance to radio altimeter interference, for the 
fundamental emissions (3.7-3.98 GHz), at or above the power spectral 
density (PSD) curve threshold specified in figure 1 to paragraph 
(g)(2)(i) of this AD.
BILLING CODE 4910-13-P

Figure 1 to paragraph (g)(2)(i)--Fundamental Effective Isotropic PSD 
at Outside Interface of Aircraft Antenna
[GRAPHIC] [TIFF OMITTED] TR21JN23.120

    (ii) Tolerance to radio altimeter interference, for the spurious 
emissions (3.7-3.98 GHz), at or above the PSD curve threshold 
specified in figure 2 to paragraph (g)(2)(ii) of this AD.


[[Page 40027]]


Figure 2 to paragraph (g)(2)(ii)--Spurious Effective Isotropic PSD 
at Outside Interface of Aircraft Antenna
[GRAPHIC] [TIFF OMITTED] TR21JN23.121

    (3) For purposes of this AD, a ``non-radio altimeter tolerant 
airplane'' is one for which the radio altimeter, as installed, does 
not demonstrate the tolerances specified in paragraphs (g)(2)(i) and 
(ii) of this AD.

(h) Retained Airplane Flight Manual (AFM) Revision-Limitations

    This paragraph restates the requirements of paragraph (g) of AD 
2022-09-18.
    (1) For airplanes identified in paragraphs (c)(1) and (c)(3) 
through (6) of this AD: Within 2 days after May 23, 2022 (the 
effective date of AD 2022-09-18), revise the Limitations Section of 
the existing AFM to include the information specified in figure 3 to 
paragraph (h)(1) of this AD. This may be done by inserting a copy of 
figure 3 to paragraph (h)(1) of this AD into the existing AFM.


[[Page 40028]]


Figure 3 to paragraph (h)(1)--AFM Limitations Revision for Model 
707, 727, DC-8, DC-9 (except DC-9-81 (MD-81), DC-9-82 (MD-82), DC-9-
83 (MD-83), and DC-9-87 (MD-87)), and DC-10
[GRAPHIC] [TIFF OMITTED] TR21JN23.122

    (2) For airplanes identified in paragraphs (c)(2), (7), and (8) 
of this AD: Within 2 days after May 23, 2022 (the effective date of 
AD 2022-09-18), revise the Limitations Section of the existing AFM 
to include the information specified in figure 4 to paragraph (h)(2) 
of this AD. This may be done by inserting a copy of figure 4 to 
paragraph (h)(2) of this AD into the Limitations Section of the 
existing AFM.

Figure 4 to paragraph (h)(2)--AFM Limitations Revision for Model 
717, MD-10, and MD-11
[GRAPHIC] [TIFF OMITTED] TR21JN23.123

    (3) For airplanes identified in paragraph (c)(9) of this AD: 
Within 2 days after May 23, 2022 (the effective date of AD 2022-09-
18), revise the Limitations Section of the existing AFM to include 
the information specified in figure 5 to paragraph (h)(3) of this 
AD. This may be done by inserting a copy of figure 5 to paragraph 
(h)(3) of this AD into the Limitations Section of the existing AFM.


[[Page 40029]]


Figure 5 to paragraph (h)(3)--AFM Limitations Revision for Model DC-
9-81 (MD-81), DC-9-82 (MD-82), DC-9-83 (MD-83), DC-9-87 (MD-87), MD-
88, and MD-90-30
[GRAPHIC] [TIFF OMITTED] TR21JN23.124

(i) Retained AFM Revision-Operating Procedures

    This paragraph restates the requirements of paragraph (h) of AD 
2022-09-18.
    (1) For airplanes identified in paragraphs (c)(1) and (3) 
through (6) of this AD: Within 2 days after May 23, 2022 (the 
effective date of AD 2022-09-18), revise the Operating Procedures 
Section of the existing AFM to include the information specified in 
figure 6 to paragraph (i)(1) of this AD. This may be done by 
inserting a copy of figure 6 to paragraph (i)(1) of this AD into the 
Operating Procedures Section of the existing AFM.

Figure 6 to paragraph (i)(1)--AFM Operating Procedures Revision for 
Model 707, 727, DC-8, DC-9 (except DC-9-81 (MD-81), DC-9-82 (MD-82), 
DC-9-83 (MD-83), and DC-9-87 (MD-87)), and DC-10
[GRAPHIC] [TIFF OMITTED] TR21JN23.125

    (2) For airplanes identified in paragraph (c)(2) of this AD: 
Within 2 days after May 23, 2022 (the effective date of AD 2022-09-
18), revise the Operating Procedures Section of the existing AFM to 
include the information specified in figure 7 to paragraph (i)(2) of 
this AD. This may be done by inserting a copy of figure 7 to 
paragraph (i)(2) of this AD into the Operating Procedures Section of 
the existing AFM.

[[Page 40030]]

Figure 7 to paragraph (i)(2)--AFM Operating Procedures Revision for 
Model 717
[GRAPHIC] [TIFF OMITTED] TR21JN23.126

    (3) For airplanes identified in paragraph (c)(7) of this AD: 
Within 2 days after May 23, 2022 (the effective date of AD 2022-09-
18), revise the Operating Procedures Section of the existing AFM to 
include the information specified in figure 8 to paragraph (i)(3) of 
this AD. This may be done by inserting a copy of figure 8 to 
paragraph (i)(3) of this AD into the Operating Procedures Section of 
the existing AFM.


[[Page 40031]]


Figure 8 to paragraph (i)(3)--AFM Operating Procedures Revision for 
Model MD-10
[GRAPHIC] [TIFF OMITTED] TR21JN23.127


[[Page 40032]]


[GRAPHIC] [TIFF OMITTED] TR21JN23.128


[[Page 40033]]


[GRAPHIC] [TIFF OMITTED] TR21JN23.129


[[Page 40034]]


[GRAPHIC] [TIFF OMITTED] TR21JN23.130


[[Page 40035]]


[GRAPHIC] [TIFF OMITTED] TR21JN23.131

    (4) For airplanes identified in paragraph (c)(8) of this AD: 
Within 2 days after the effective date of this AD, revise the 
Operating Procedures Section of the existing AFM to include the 
information specified in figure 9 to paragraph (i)(4) of this AD. 
This may be done by inserting a copy of figure 9 to paragraph (i)(4) 
of this AD into the Operating Procedures Section of the existing 
AFM.


[[Page 40036]]


    Figure 9 to paragraph (i)(4)--AFM Operating Procedures Revision 
for Model MD-11
[GRAPHIC] [TIFF OMITTED] TR21JN23.132


[[Page 40037]]


[GRAPHIC] [TIFF OMITTED] TR21JN23.133


[[Page 40038]]


[GRAPHIC] [TIFF OMITTED] TR21JN23.134


[[Page 40039]]


[GRAPHIC] [TIFF OMITTED] TR21JN23.135


[[Page 40040]]


[GRAPHIC] [TIFF OMITTED] TR21JN23.136


[[Page 40041]]


[GRAPHIC] [TIFF OMITTED] TR21JN23.137

    (5) For airplanes identified in paragraph (c)(9) of this AD: 
Within 2 days after the effective date of this AD, revise the 
Operating Procedures Section of the existing AFM to include the 
information specified in figure 10 to paragraph (i)(5) of this AD. 
This may be done by inserting a copy of figure 10 to paragraph 
(i)(5) of this AD into the Operating Procedures Section of the 
existing AFM.

    Figure 10 to paragraph (i)(5)--AFM Operating Procedures Revision 
for Model DC-9-81 (MD-81), DC-9-82 (MD-82), DC-9-83 (MD-83), DC-9-87 
(MD-87), MD-88, and MD-90-30 
[GRAPHIC] [TIFF OMITTED] TR21JN23.138

(j) New Requirement: AFM Limitations Revision for Non-Radio Altimeter 
Tolerant Airplanes

    (1) For non-radio altimeter tolerant airplanes identified in 
paragraphs (c)(1) and (c)(3) through (6) of this AD, do the actions 
specified in paragraphs (j)(1)(i) and (ii) of this AD.
    (i) On or before June 30, 2023, revise the Limitations Section 
of the existing AFM to include the information specified in figure 
11 to paragraph (j)(1) of this AD. This may be done by inserting a 
copy of figure 11 to paragraph (j)(1) of this AD into the existing 
AFM. Incorporating the AFM revision required by this paragraph 
terminates the AFM revision required by paragraph (h)(1) of this AD.
    (ii) Before further flight after incorporating the limitations 
specified in figure 11 to paragraph (j)(1) of this AD, remove the 
AFM revision required by paragraph (h)(1) of this AD.

[[Page 40042]]

Figure 11 to paragraph (j)(1)--AFM Limitations Revision for Model 
707, 727, DC-8, DC-9 (except DC-9-81 (MD-81), DC-9-82 (MD-82), DC-9-
83 (MD-83), and DC-9-87 (MD-87)), and DC-10
[GRAPHIC] [TIFF OMITTED] TR21JN23.139

    (2) For non-radio altimeter tolerant airplanes identified in 
paragraphs (c)(2), (7), and (8) of this AD, do the actions specified 
in paragraphs (j)(2)(i) and (ii) of this AD.
    (i) On or before June 30, 2023, revise the Limitations Section 
of the existing AFM to include the information specified in figure 
12 to paragraph (j)(2) of this AD. This may be done by inserting a 
copy of figure 12 to paragraph (j)(2) of this AD into the existing 
AFM. Incorporating the AFM revision required by this paragraph 
terminates the AFM revision required by paragraph (h)(2) of this AD.
    (ii) Before further flight after incorporating the limitations 
specified in figure 12 to paragraph (j)(2) of this AD, remove the 
AFM revision required by paragraph (h)(2) of this AD.

Figure 12 to paragraph (j)(2)--AFM Limitations Revision for Model 
717, MD-10, and MD-11
[GRAPHIC] [TIFF OMITTED] TR21JN23.140

    (3) For non-radio altimeter tolerant airplanes identified in 
paragraph (c)(9) of this AD, do the actions specified in paragraphs 
(j)(3)(i) and (ii) of this AD.
    (i) On or before June 30, 2023, revise the Limitations Section 
of the existing AFM to include the information specified in figure 
13 to paragraph (j)(3) of this AD. This may be done by inserting a 
copy of figure 13 to paragraph (j)(3) of this AD into the existing 
AFM. Incorporating the AFM revision required by this paragraph 
terminates the AFM revision required by paragraph (h)(3) of this AD.
    (ii) Before further flight after incorporating the limitations 
specified in figure 13 to paragraph (j)(3) of this AD, remove the 
AFM revision required by paragraph (h)(3) of this AD.


[[Page 40043]]


Figure 13 to paragraph (j)(3)--AFM Limitations Revision for Model 
DC-9-81 (MD-81), DC-9-82 (MD-82), DC-9-83 (MD-83), DC-9-87 (MD-87), 
MD-88, and MD-90-30
[GRAPHIC] [TIFF OMITTED] TR21JN23.141

(k) New Requirement: AFM Limitations Revision for Radio Altimeter 
Tolerant Airplanes

    (1) For radio altimeter tolerant airplanes identified in 
paragraphs (c)(1) and (c)(3) through (6) of this AD, do the actions 
specified in paragraphs (k)(1)(i) and (ii) of this AD.
    (i) On or before June 30, 2023, revise the Limitations Section 
of the existing AFM to include the information specified in figure 
14 to paragraph (k)(1) of this AD. This may be done by inserting a 
copy of figure 14 to paragraph (k)(1) of this AD into the existing 
AFM. Incorporating the AFM revision required by this paragraph 
terminates the AFM revision required by paragraph (h)(1) of this AD.
    (ii) Before further flight after incorporating the limitations 
specified in figure 14 to paragraph (k)(1) of this AD, remove the 
AFM revision required by paragraph (h)(1) of this AD.

Figure 14 to paragraph (k)(1)--AFM Limitations Revision for Model 
707, 727, DC-8, DC-9 (except DC-9-81 (MD-81), DC-9-82 (MD-82), DC-9-
83 (MD-83), and DC-9-87 (MD-87)), and DC-10
[GRAPHIC] [TIFF OMITTED] TR21JN23.142

    (2) For radio altimeter tolerant airplanes identified in 
paragraphs (c)(2), (7), and (8) of this AD, do the actions specified 
in paragraphs (k)(2)(i) and (ii) of this AD.
    (i) On or before June 30, 2023, revise the Limitations Section 
of the existing AFM to include the information specified in figure 
15 to paragraph (k)(2) of this AD. This may be done by inserting a 
copy of figure 15 to paragraph (k)(2) of this AD into the existing 
AFM. Incorporating the AFM revision required by this paragraph 
terminates the AFM revision required by paragraph (h)(2) of this AD.
    (ii) Before further flight after incorporating the limitations 
specified in figure 15 to paragraph (k)(2) of this AD, remove the 
AFM revision required by paragraph (h)(2) of this AD.


[[Page 40044]]


Figure 15 to paragraph (k)(2)--AFM Limitations Revision for Model 
717, MD-10, and MD-11
[GRAPHIC] [TIFF OMITTED] TR21JN23.143

    (3) For radio altimeter tolerant airplanes identified in 
paragraph (c)(9) of this AD, do the actions specified in paragraphs 
(k)(3)(i) and (ii) of this AD.
    (i) On or before June 30, 2023, revise the Limitations Section 
of the existing AFM to include the information specified in figure 
16 to paragraph (k)(3) of this AD. This may be done by inserting a 
copy of figure 16 to paragraph (k)(3) of this AD into the existing 
AFM. Incorporating the AFM revision required by this paragraph 
terminates the AFM revision required by paragraph (h)(3) of this AD.
    (ii) Before further flight after incorporating the limitations 
specified in figure 16 to paragraph (k)(3) of this AD, remove the 
AFM revision required by paragraph (h)(3) of this AD.

Figure 16 to paragraph (k)(3)--AFM Limitations Revision for Model 
DC-9-81 (MD-81), DC-9-82 (MD-82), DC-9-83 (MD-83), DC-9-87 (MD-87), 
MD-88, and MD-90-30
[GRAPHIC] [TIFF OMITTED] TR21JN23.144

(l) New Requirement: AFM Operating Procedures Revision

    (1) For airplanes identified in paragraphs (c)(1) and (3) 
through (6) of this AD, do the actions specified in paragraphs 
(l)(1)(i) and (ii) of this AD.
    (i) On or before June 30, 2023, revise the Operating Procedures 
Section of the existing AFM to include the information specified in 
figure 17 to paragraph (l)(1) of this AD. This may be done by 
inserting a copy of figure 17 to paragraph (l)(1) of this AD into 
the Operating Procedures Section of the existing AFM. Incorporating 
the AFM revision required by this paragraph terminates the AFM 
revision required by paragraph (i)(1) of this AD.
    (ii) Before further flight after incorporating the limitations 
specified in figure 17 to paragraph (l)(1) of this AD, remove the 
AFM revision required by paragraph (i)(1) of this AD.


[[Page 40045]]


Figure 17 to paragraph (1)(1)--AFM Operating Procedures Revision for 
Model 707, 727, DC-8, DC-9 (except DC-9-81 (MD-81), DC-9-82 (MD-82), 
DC-9-83 (MD-83), and DC-9-87 (MD-87)), and DC-10

[GRAPHIC] [TIFF OMITTED] TR21JN23.145

    (2) For airplanes identified in paragraph (c)(2) of this AD, do 
the actions specified in paragraphs (l)(2)(i) and (ii) of this AD.
    (i) On or before June 30, 2023, revise the Operating Procedures 
Section of the existing AFM to include the information specified in 
figure 18 to paragraph (l)(2) of this AD. This may be done by 
inserting a copy of figure 18 to paragraph (l)(2) of this AD into 
the Operating Procedures Section of the existing AFM. Incorporating 
the AFM revision required by this paragraph terminates the AFM 
revision required by paragraph (i)(2) of this AD.
    (ii) Before further flight after incorporating the limitations 
specified in figure 18 to paragraph (l)(2) of this AD, remove the 
AFM revision required by paragraph (i)(2) of this AD.

Figure 18 to paragraph (l)(2)--AFM Operating Procedures Revision for 
Model 717
[GRAPHIC] [TIFF OMITTED] TR21JN23.146


[[Page 40046]]


    (3) For airplanes identified in paragraph (c)(7) of this AD, do 
the actions specified in paragraphs (l)(3)(i) and (ii) of this AD.
    (i) On or before June 30, 2023, revise the Operating Procedures 
Section of the existing AFM to include the information specified in 
figure 19 to paragraph (l)(3) of this AD. This may be done by 
inserting a copy of figure 19 to paragraph (l)(3) of this AD into 
the Operating Procedures Section of the existing AFM. Incorporating 
the AFM revision required by this paragraph terminates the AFM 
revision required by paragraph (i)(3) of this AD.
    (ii) Before further flight after incorporating the limitations 
specified in figure 19 to paragraph (l)(3) of this AD, remove the 
AFM revision required by paragraph (i)(3) of this AD.

Figure 19 to paragraph (l)(3)--AFM Operating Procedures Revision for 
Model MD-10

[GRAPHIC] [TIFF OMITTED] TR21JN23.147


[[Page 40047]]


[GRAPHIC] [TIFF OMITTED] TR21JN23.148


[[Page 40048]]


[GRAPHIC] [TIFF OMITTED] TR21JN23.149


[[Page 40049]]


[GRAPHIC] [TIFF OMITTED] TR21JN23.150


[[Page 40050]]


[GRAPHIC] [TIFF OMITTED] TR21JN23.151


[[Page 40051]]


[GRAPHIC] [TIFF OMITTED] TR21JN23.152

    (4) For airplanes identified in paragraph (c)(8) of this AD, do 
the actions specified in paragraphs (l)(4)(i) and (ii) of this AD.
    (i) On or before June 30, 2023, revise the Operating Procedures 
Section of the existing AFM to include the information specified in 
figure 20 to paragraph (l)(4) of this AD. This may be done by 
inserting a copy of figure 20 to paragraph (l)(4) of this AD into 
the Operating Procedures Section of the existing AFM. Incorporating 
the AFM revision required by this paragraph terminates the AFM 
revision required by paragraph (i)(4) of this AD.
    (ii) Before further flight after incorporating the limitations 
specified in figure 20 to paragraph (l)(4) of this AD, remove the 
AFM revision required by paragraph (i)(4) of this AD.


[[Page 40052]]


Figure 20 to paragraph (l)(4)--AFM Operating Procedures Revision for 
Model MD-11
[GRAPHIC] [TIFF OMITTED] TR21JN23.153


[[Page 40053]]


[GRAPHIC] [TIFF OMITTED] TR21JN23.154


[[Page 40054]]


[GRAPHIC] [TIFF OMITTED] TR21JN23.155


[[Page 40055]]


[GRAPHIC] [TIFF OMITTED] TR21JN23.156


[[Page 40056]]


[GRAPHIC] [TIFF OMITTED] TR21JN23.157


[[Page 40057]]


[GRAPHIC] [TIFF OMITTED] TR21JN23.158

    (5) For airplanes identified in paragraph (c)(9) of this AD, do 
the actions specified in paragraphs (l)(5)(i) and (ii) of this AD.
    (i) On or before June 30, 2023, revise the Operating Procedures 
Section of the existing AFM to include the information specified in 
figure 21 to paragraph (l)(5) of this AD. This may be done by 
inserting a copy of figure 21 to paragraph (l)(5) of this AD into 
the Operating Procedures Section of the existing AFM. Incorporating 
the AFM revision required by this paragraph terminates the AFM 
revision required by paragraph (i)(5) of this AD.
    (ii) Before further flight after incorporating the limitations 
specified in figure 21 to paragraph (l)(5) of this AD, remove the 
AFM revision required by paragraph (i)(5) of this AD.


[[Page 40058]]


Figure 21 to paragraph (l)(5)--AFM Operating Procedures Revision for 
Model DC-9-81 (MD-81), DC-9-82 (MD-82), DC-9-83 (MD-83), DC-9-87 
(MD-87), MD-88, and MD-90-30
[GRAPHIC] [TIFF OMITTED] TR21JN23.159

(m) Alternative Methods of Compliance (AMOCs)

    (1) The Manager, Operational Safety Branch, 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 responsible Flight 
Standards Office, as appropriate. If sending information directly to 
the manager of the Operational Safety Branch, send it to the 
attention of the person identified in paragraph (n) 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 responsible Flight Standards Office.
    (3) AMOCs approved for AD 2021-23-12, Amendment 39-21810 (86 FR 
69984, December 9, 2021) providing relief for specific radio 
altimeter installations are approved as AMOCs for the requirements 
specified in paragraph (h) of this AD until June 30, 2023.

(n) Related Information

    For more information about this AD, contact Brett Portwood, 
Continued Operational Safety Technical Advisor, COS Program 
Management Section, Operational Safety Branch, FAA, 3960 Paramount 
Boulevard, Lakewood, CA 90712-4137; phone: 817-222-5390; email: 
[email protected].

(o) Material Incorporated by Reference

    None.

    Issued on June 9, 2023.
Michael Linegang,
Acting Director, Compliance & Airworthiness Division, Aircraft 
Certification Service.
[FR Doc. 2023-13155 Filed 6-16-23; 11:15 am]
BILLING CODE 4910-13-C

The complete text was extracted from the official GovInfo HTML edition for this publication. Acquired 2026-10-09T01:34:45.523656+00:00. Text extraction preserves the recorded source wording; it does not determine current requirements.

Open the captured official edition

Source SHA-256

4d7b07f92771721d9edbad19dfe65fdbf8ab53499a8e9a6f6f5db91043bdfe82

Text SHA-256

055be8ad20717be28a758ed13669f50d2f93ad22759911db171a6361931fa5bd