Published 2006-07-20 · Federal Register document E6-11412
Airworthiness Directives; Airbus Model A300 B2 and B4 Series Airplanes; and Model A300 B4-600, B4-600R, and F4-600R Series Airplanes, and Model C4-605R Variant F Airplanes (Collectively Called A300-600 Series Airplanes)
Publication summary
The FAA is superseding two existing airworthiness directives (AD) that apply to certain Airbus Model A300 B2, A300 B4, and A300-600 series airplanes. One AD currently requires an inspection for cracks of the lower outboard flange of gantry No. 4 in the main landing gear (MLG) bay area, and repair if necessary. The other AD currently requires, among other actions, repetitive inspections of the gantry lower flanges, and repair if necessary. This new AD requires new repetitive inspections for cracks in the lower flange of certain gantries, and repair if necessary, which ends the existing inspection requirements. This new AD also provides for optional terminating actions for the new repetitive inspections. This AD results from a report of a large fatigue crack along the outboard flange of beam No. 4 and a subsequent determination that existing inspections are inadequate. We are issuing this AD to detect and correct fatigue cracks in the lower flanges of gantries 1 through 5 inclusive in the MLG bay area, which could result in reduced structural integrity of the fuselage, and consequent rapid decompression of the airplane.
Why this record is shown
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- Source revision
- federal_register_ad_metadata_2006-8d787f8b35bc8016
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- results[253]
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Final-rule publication
Recorded publication clauses
- AD identifier printed in this edition
- 2006-15-04
- Effective date printed in this edition
- 2006-08-24
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Read 17 complete recorded clauses
Effective Date
Effective Date
(a) This AD becomes effective August 24, 2006.
(b) This AD supersedes ADs 2003-26-10 and 2004-18-13.
Exact source excerpt. Text positions 15716–15842, end exclusive, in the original decoded publication. SHA-256: 7d5e7a23294e2ef9728e1566f365552f85d45f16498ded15cb2e4d0536a65a09
Applicability wording · Applicability
Applicability
(c) This AD applies to Airbus airplanes identified in Table 1 of
this AD, certificated in any category.
Table 1.--Applicability
------------------------------------------------------------------------
-------------------------------------------------------------------------
Affected Airbus Airplanes
(1) All Model A300 B2-1A, B2-1C, B2K-3C, and B2-203 airplanes.
(2) All Model A300 B4-2C, B4-103, and B4-203 airplanes.
(3) All Model A300 B4-601, B4-603, B4-620, and B4-622 airplanes.
(4) All Model A300 B4-605R and B4-622R airplanes.
(5) All Model A300 F4-605R and F4-622R airplanes.
(6) All Model A300 C4-605R Variant F airplanes.
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Exact source excerpt. Text positions 15842–16623, end exclusive, in the original decoded publication. SHA-256: 2f9f68954b8ccef190655a3fd6fc5e550b551e02b48ff5620d45d29ce0407c56
Unsafe Condition
Unsafe Condition
(d) This AD results from a report of a large fatigue crack along
the outboard flange of beam No. 4. We are issuing this AD to detect
and correct fatigue cracks in the lower flanges of the left and
right gantries 1 through 5 inclusive in the main landing gear (MLG)
bay area, which could result in reduced structural integrity of the
fuselage, and consequent rapid decompression of the airplane.
Exact source excerpt. Text positions 16623–17046, end exclusive, in the original decoded publication. SHA-256: cf43aa5a6af54b634597af19b2614858c6341ac8afd529da06bb81b0e73f7d85
Compliance
Compliance
(e) You are responsible for having the actions required by this
AD performed within the compliance times specified, unless the
actions have already been done.
Restatement of Requirements of AD 2003-26-10
Exact source excerpt. Text positions 17046–17270, end exclusive, in the original decoded publication. SHA-256: ed693d93e9973b9eb5db58b72073526ac3a759f7bcfdad6e2acf7333f879ea6a
One-Time Inspection
One-Time Inspection
(f) For airplanes on which Airbus Modification 10147 has not
been done: At the later of the times specified in paragraphs (f)(1)
and (f)(2) of this AD: Do a one-time detailed inspection for
cracking of the lower outboard flange of gantry No. 4 in the MLG bay
area per paragraph 4.2.1 of Airbus All Operators Telex (AOT) A300-
53A0371, Revision 01 (for Model A300 B2 and B4 series airplanes); or
AOT A300-53A6145, Revision 01 (for Model A300-600 series airplanes);
both dated September 10, 2003; as applicable.
(1) Before the accumulation of 8,000 total flight cycles since
the date of issuance of the original Airworthiness Certificate or
the date of issuance of the Export Certificate of Airworthiness,
whichever is first.
(2) Within 30 days after January 22, 2004 (the effective date AD
2003-26-10).
Note 1: For the purposes of this AD, a detailed inspection is
defined as: ``An intensive visual examination of a specific
structural area, system, installation, or assembly to detect damage,
failure, or irregularity. Available lighting is normally
supplemented with a direct source of good lighting at intensity
deemed appropriate by the inspector. Inspection aids such as mirror,
magnifying lenses, etc., may be used. Surface cleaning and elaborate
access procedures may be required.''
Exact source excerpt. Text positions 17270–18615, end exclusive, in the original decoded publication. SHA-256: cae767d6854500891a073dc40c40f5c3439ee98765da75a5eb53a0e40a905c3d
Repair
Repair
(g) Repair any cracking found during the inspection required by
paragraph (f) of this AD before further flight, per a method
approved by either the Manager, International Branch, ANM-116,
Transport Airplane Directorate, FAA; the Direction
G[eacute]n[eacute]rale de l'Aviation Civile (DGAC) (or its delegated
agent); or the European Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) (or its
delegate agent).
Restatement of Requirements of AD 2004-18-13
Exact source excerpt. Text positions 18615–19067, end exclusive, in the original decoded publication. SHA-256: d068b64acb7f8fc6e9ac8a7a7c71c09fe6d73cbae7c9f9d1c36e69ba9d192e07
One-Time Inspection and Corrective Action
One-Time Inspection and Corrective Action
(h) For Model A300 B2-1A, B2-1C, B2K-3C, and B2-203 airplanes,
and Model A300 B4-2C, B4-103, and B4-203 airplanes, on which Airbus
Modification 3474 has been done: Prior to the accumulation of 16,300
total flight cycles, or within 500 flight cycles after July 30, 1998
(the effective date of AD 98-13-37), whichever occurs later, perform
a one-time ultrasonic inspection for cracking of the gantry lower
flanges in the MLG bay area, in accordance with Airbus AOT 53-11,
dated October 13, 1997.
(1) If any cracking is detected, prior to further flight, repair
in accordance with the AOT.
(2) If no cracking is detected, no further action is required by
this paragraph.
Exact source excerpt. Text positions 19067–19800, end exclusive, in the original decoded publication. SHA-256: dab54dd7d289f72c021d69a0bc3781f900678aa801d82880b050a2721772360d
Repetitive Inspections and Corrective Actions
Repetitive Inspections and Corrective Actions
(i) For Model A300 B4-601, B4-603, B4-605R, B4-620, B4-622R, C4-
605R Variant F airplanes, and F4-605R airplanes, on which Airbus
Modification 12169 has not been done in production: Perform the
requirements of paragraphs (i)(1), (i)(2), (i)(3), and (i)(4) of
this AD, in accordance with Airbus Service Bulletin A300-53-6128,
dated March 5, 2001.
(1) At the later of the times specified in paragraphs (i)(1)(i)
and (i)(1)(ii) of this AD, perform initial ultrasonic inspections or
high-frequency eddy current (HFEC) inspections for cracks of the
lower flanges of gantries 3, 4, and 5 between fuselage frames FR47
and FR54, in accordance with the Accomplishment Instructions,
including the Synoptic Chart contained in Figure 2, sheets 1 through
5 inclusive, of the service bulletin.
(i) In accordance with the thresholds specified in the Synoptic
Chart contained in Figure 2, sheets 1 through 5 inclusive, of the
service bulletin; or
(ii) Within 200 flight cycles after October 19, 2004 (the
effective date AD 2004-18-13).
(2) Perform repetitive ultrasonic inspections or high-frequency
eddy current inspections for cracks of the lower flanges of gantries
3, 4, and 5 between fuselage frames FR47 and FR54, in accordance
with the thresholds and Accomplishment Instructions, including the
Synoptic Chart contained in Figure 2, sheets 1 through 5 inclusive,
of the service bulletin.
(3) Perform repairs and reinforcements, in accordance with the
thresholds and the Accomplishment Instructions, including the
Synoptic Chart contained in Figure 2, sheets 1 through 5 inclusive,
of the service bulletin, except as specified in paragraph (i)(4) of
this AD.
(4) If a new crack is found during any action required by
paragraph (i)(1), (i)(2) or (i)(3) of this AD and the Synoptic Chart
contained in Figure 2, sheets 1 through 5 inclusive, of the service
bulletin specifies to contact Airbus for appropriate action: Prior
to further flight, repair per a method approved by the Manager,
International Branch, ANM-116; the DGAC (or its delegated agent); or
the European Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) (or its delegate agent).
Exact source excerpt. Text positions 19800–22015, end exclusive, in the original decoded publication. SHA-256: 8269630f338307225a484e8a4f2769edb605fb833442fcabf542ceca07682280
Credit for Inspections Accomplished in Accordance With AOT
Credit for Inspections Accomplished in Accordance With AOT
(j) Any inspection accomplished before October 19, 2004, in
accordance with Airbus AOT 53-11, dated October 13, 1997, is
acceptable for compliance with the corresponding inspection
specified in paragraph (i)(1) of this AD, for that inspection area
only. Operators must do the applicable inspections in paragraph
(i)(1) of this AD for the remaining inspection areas.
New Requirements of This AD
Exact source excerpt. Text positions 22015–22480, end exclusive, in the original decoded publication. SHA-256: 6ca3dbdff0324fcb8c6e76a98a0e98a4a31f775980748143fc77b8f4f6bd3984
Repetitive Inspections
Repetitive Inspections
(k) At the later of the applicable times specified in the
``Threshold (FC)'' and ``Grace
[[Page 41112]]
Period'' columns of Tables 1 and 2 in paragraph 1.E of the
applicable service bulletin in Table 2 of this AD: Do an ultrasonic
inspection or HFEC inspection, including rework of the pressure
diaphragm, for cracks in the lower flanges of the left and right
gantries 1 through 5 inclusive between FR47 and FR54, in accordance
with the Accomplishment Instructions of the applicable service
bulletin in Table 2 of this AD. Repeat the inspection at the
applicable times specified in the ``Interval (FC)'' column of Tables
1 and 2 in paragraph 1.E of the applicable service bulletin in Table
2 of this AD. Accomplishment of the initial inspection ends the
inspections required by paragraphs (f), (h), and (i) of this AD.
Table 2.--Service Bulletins
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Airbus Service Bulletin-- For airplanes identified in--
------------------------------------------------------------------------
(1) A300-53-0379, Revision 01, dated Paragraphs (c)(1) and (c)(2) of
October 4, 2005. this AD inclusive.
(2) A300-53-6152, Revision 01, dated Paragraphs (c)(3) through
October 4, 2005. (c)(6) of this AD inclusive.
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Exact source excerpt. Text positions 22480–23956, end exclusive, in the original decoded publication. SHA-256: 9a810e2c04b617500d9a153e87ed76e29797183bca2c4fcc33ad1d482cf51df8
Corrective Action
Corrective Action
(l) If any crack is detected during any ultrasonic or HFEC
inspection required by paragraph (k) of this AD, before further
flight, repair the crack in accordance with the Accomplishment
Instructions of the applicable service bulletin in Table 2 of this
AD, except as provided by paragraph (n) of this AD.
Exact source excerpt. Text positions 23956–24289, end exclusive, in the original decoded publication. SHA-256: f1697ebd0f2b490dfff189b01e1517c75d238a54d3493b05ede86e61d0b2428e
Optional Terminating Actions
Optional Terminating Actions
(m) Accomplishment of the actions specified in Table 3 of this
AD ends the repetitive inspections required by paragraph (k) of this
AD.
Table 3.--Optional Termianting Actions
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
By doing all the
actions in accordance For airplanes
Before or at the same time with-- Reinforce-- with the Accomplishment identified in--
Instructions of--
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
(1) The actions required by paragraph The flanges of the left Airbus Service Bulletin Paragraphs (c)(1) and
(k) of this AD and the action and right portals 1 A300-53-0380, dated (c)(2) of this AD
specified in paragraph (m)(2) of through 5 inclusive August 5, 2005, except inclusive.
this AD. between FR47 and FR54 as provided by
of the landing gear, paragraph (n) of this
including a rotating AD.
probe inspection for
cracks of holes and
repair if necessary.
Airbus Service Bulletin Paragraphs (c)(3)
A300-53-6153, dated through (c)(6) of this
August 24, 2005, AD inclusive.
except as provided by
paragraph (n) of this
AD.
(2) The actions required by paragraph Portals 3, 4, and 5 of Airbus Service Bulletin Paragraphs (c)(1) and
(k) of this AD. the plates/skin. A300-53-0360, Revision (c)(2) of this AD
01, dated May 31, inclusive.
2006, except as
provided by paragraph
(n) of this AD.
Airbus Service Bulletin Paragraphs (c)(3)
A300-53-6132, Revision through (c)(6) of this
01, dated June 7, AD inclusive.
2006, except as
provided by paragraph
(n) of this AD.
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Exact source excerpt. Text positions 24289–27712, end exclusive, in the original decoded publication. SHA-256: c81e822315b0b9b3b6aa1d899015572e03dbafd42f98fabf63b860649c43560f
Repair of Certain Cracks
Repair of Certain Cracks
(n) Where the applicable service bulletin recommends contacting
Airbus for appropriate action: Before further flight, repair the
crack in accordance with a method approved by the Manager,
International Branch, ANM-116; the DGAC (or its delegated agent); or
the European Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) (or its delegate agent).
Exact source excerpt. Text positions 27712–28072, end exclusive, in the original decoded publication. SHA-256: 6a71b0a601d56c242e661be69ee0d27f73b1b0db289be7258d4e4abdf25bde25
Credit for Original Service Bulletins
Credit for Original Service Bulletins
(o) Accomplishing the inspections and repair before the
effective date of this AD in accordance with Airbus Service Bulletin
A300-53-0379, dated May 9, 2005; or Airbus Service Bulletin A300-53-
6152, dated May 9, 2005; as applicable; is acceptable for compliance
with the corresponding requirements of paragraphs (k) and (l) of
this AD.
(p) Accomplishing the reinforcement before the effective date of
this AD in accordance with Airbus Service Bulletin A300-53-0360,
dated May 3, 2002; and Airbus Service Bulletin A300-53-6132, dated
February 5, 2002; is acceptable for compliance with the
corresponding requirements of paragraph (m)(2) of this AD.
Exact source excerpt. Text positions 28072–28777, end exclusive, in the original decoded publication. SHA-256: 9b1d0a603698b459be4944068b4156c069e124563a51f4099551a303fb3c862d
No Inspection Report
No Inspection Report
(q) Although the service bulletins in this AD specify to submit
certain information to the manufacturer, this AD does not include
that requirement.
Alternative Methods of Compliance (AMOCs)
(r)(1) The Manager, International Branch, ANM-116, has the
authority to approve AMOCs for this AD, if requested in accordance
with the procedures found in 14 CFR 39.19.
(2) Before using any AMOC approved in accordance with Sec.
39.19 on any airplane to which the AMOC applies, notify the
appropriate principal inspector in the FAA Flight Standards
Certificate Holding District Office.
Exact source excerpt. Text positions 28777–29397, end exclusive, in the original decoded publication. SHA-256: 68a158c8d69b56343f0dc4ded06ce5477b62496ccbf5cc02f070dd61327f7b33
Related Information
Related Information
(s) French airworthiness directive F-2005-091 R1, issued
September 28, 2005, also addresses the subject of this AD.
Exact source excerpt. Text positions 29397–29540, end exclusive, in the original decoded publication. SHA-256: f1667ade33eb03fb21d334fdf4a5ead7a201a43e0ca74bfdbebfb75ce9349a06
Material Incorporated by Reference
Material Incorporated by Reference
(t) You must use the applicable service bulletins identified in
Table 4 of this AD to perform the actions that are required by this
AD, unless the AD specifies otherwise.
(1) The Director of the Federal Register approved the
incorporation by reference of the documents in Table 5 of this AD in
accordance with 5 U.S.C. 552(a) and 1 CFR part 51.
(2) On October 19, 2004 (69 FR 55329, September 14, 2004), the
Director of the Federal Register approved the incorporation by
reference of Airbus Service Bulletin A300-53-6128, excluding
Appendix 01, dated March 5, 2001.
(3) On January 22, 2004 (69 FR 867, January 7, 2004), the
Director of the Federal Register approved the incorporation by
reference of Airbus All Operators Telex A300-53A0371, Revision 01,
dated September 10, 2003; and Airbus All Operators Telex A300-
53A6145, Revision 01, dated September 10, 2003.
(4) On July 30, 1998 (63 FR 34589, June 25, 1998), the Director
of the Federal Register approved the incorporation by reference of
[[Page 41113]]
Airbus All Operators Telex (AOT) 53-11, dated October 13, 1997.
(5) Contact Airbus, 1 Rond Point Maurice Bellonte, 31707 Blagnac
Cedex, France, for a copy of this service information. You may
review copies at the Docket Management Facility, U.S. Department of
Transportation, 400 Seventh Street, SW., Room PL-401, Nassif
Building, Washington, DC; on the Internet at http://dms.dot.gov; or
at the National Archives and Records Administration (NARA). For
information on the availability of this material at the NARA, call
(202) 741-6030, or go to http://www.archives.gov/federal_register/code_of_federal_regulations/ibr_locations.html.
Table 4.--All Material Incorporated by Reference
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Service Bulletin Revision level Date
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Airbus All Operators Telex A300-53A0371. 01......................... September 10, 2003.
Airbus All Operators Telex A300-53A6145. 01......................... September 10, 2003.
Airbus All Operators Telex (AOT) 53-11.. Original................... October 13, 1997.
Airbus Service Bulletin A300-53-0379, 01......................... October 4, 2005.
excluding Appendix 01.
Airbus Service Bulletin A300-53-6128, Original................... March 5, 2001.
excluding Appendix 01.
Airbus Service Bulletin A300-53-6152, 01......................... October 4, 2005.
excluding Appendix 01.
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Table 5.--New Material Incorporated by Reference
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Service Bulletin Revision level Date
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Airbus Service Bulletin A300-53-0379, 01......................... October 4, 2005.
excluding Appendix 01.
Airbus Service Bulletin A300-53-6152, 01......................... October 4, 2005.
excluding Appendix 01.
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Exact source excerpt. Text positions 29540–33127, end exclusive, in the original decoded publication. SHA-256: 3b956671352463258fffa1473cdcf864df00007860e0e53d7cf2b57e1e8a9da7
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Official source · 2006-07-20
Publication text
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Read the complete official publication text
[Federal Register Volume 71, Number 139 (Thursday, July 20, 2006)]
[Rules and Regulations]
[Pages 41109-41113]
From the Federal Register Online via the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]
[FR Doc No: E6-11412]
[[Page 41109]]
-----------------------------------------------------------------------
DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION
Federal Aviation Administration
14 CFR Part 39
[Docket No. FAA-2006-23690; Directorate Identifier 2004-NM-133-AD;
Amendment 39-14684; AD 2006-15-04]
RIN 2120-AA64
Airworthiness Directives; Airbus Model A300 B2 and B4 Series
Airplanes; and Model A300 B4-600, B4-600R, and F4-600R Series
Airplanes, and Model C4-605R Variant F Airplanes (Collectively Called
A300-600 Series Airplanes)
AGENCY: Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), Department of
Transportation (DOT).
ACTION: Final rule.
-----------------------------------------------------------------------
SUMMARY: The FAA is superseding two existing airworthiness directives
(AD) that apply to certain Airbus Model A300 B2, A300 B4, and A300-600
series airplanes. One AD currently requires an inspection for cracks of
the lower outboard flange of gantry No. 4 in the main landing gear
(MLG) bay area, and repair if necessary. The other AD currently
requires, among other actions, repetitive inspections of the gantry
lower flanges, and repair if necessary. This new AD requires new
repetitive inspections for cracks in the lower flange of certain
gantries, and repair if necessary, which ends the existing inspection
requirements. This new AD also provides for optional terminating
actions for the new repetitive inspections. This AD results from a
report of a large fatigue crack along the outboard flange of beam No. 4
and a subsequent determination that existing inspections are
inadequate. We are issuing this AD to detect and correct fatigue cracks
in the lower flanges of gantries 1 through 5 inclusive in the MLG bay
area, which could result in reduced structural integrity of the
fuselage, and consequent rapid decompression of the airplane.
DATES: This AD becomes effective August 24, 2006.
The Director of the Federal Register approved the incorporation by
reference of Airbus Service Bulletin A300-53-0379, Revision 01,
excluding Appendix 01, dated October 4, 2005; and Airbus Service
Bulletin A300-53-6152, Revision 01, excluding Appendix 01, dated
October 4, 2005; listed in the AD as of August 24, 2006.
On October 19, 2004 (69 FR 55329, September 14, 2004), the Director
of the Federal Register approved the incorporation by reference of
Airbus Service Bulletin A300-53-6128, excluding Appendix 01, dated
March 5, 2001.
On January 22, 2004 (69 FR 867, January 7, 2004), the Director of
the Federal Register approved the incorporation by reference of Airbus
All Operators Telex A300-53A0371, Revision 01, dated September 10,
2003; and Airbus All Operators Telex A300-53A6145, Revision 01, dated
September 10, 2003.
On July 30, 1998 (63 FR 34589, June 25, 1998), the Director of the
Federal Register approved the incorporation by reference of Airbus All
Operators Telex (AOT) 53-11, dated October 13, 1997.
ADDRESSES: You may examine the AD docket on the Internet at http://dms.dot.gov or in person at the Docket Management Facility, U.S.
Department of Transportation, 400 Seventh Street SW., Nassif Building,
Room PL-401, Washington, DC.
Contact Airbus, 1 Rond Point Maurice Bellonte, 31707 Blagnac Cedex,
France, for service information identified in this AD.
FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Thomas Stafford, Aerospace Engineer,
International Branch, ANM-116, FAA, Transport Airplane Directorate,
1601 Lind Avenue, SW., Renton, Washington 98055-4056; telephone (425)
227-1622; fax (425) 227-1149.
SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION:
Examining the Docket
You may examine the airworthiness directive (AD) docket on the
Internet at http://dms.dot.gov or in person at the Docket Management
Facility office between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m., Monday through Friday,
except Federal holidays. The Docket Management Facility office
(telephone (800) 647-5227) is located on the plaza level of the Nassif
Building at the street address stated in the ADDRESSES section.
Discussion
The FAA issued a supplemental notice of proposed rulemaking (NPRM)
to amend 14 CFR part 39 to include an AD that supersedes AD 2003-26-10,
amendment 39-13408 (69 FR 867, January 7, 2004), and AD 2004-18-13,
amendment 39-13792 (69 FR 55329, dated September 14, 2004). The
existing ADs apply to certain Airbus Model A300 B2 and A300 B4 series
airplanes, and Model A300 B4-600, B4-600R, and F4-600R series
airplanes, and Model C4-605R Variant F airplanes (collectively called
A300-600 series airplanes). That supplemental NPRM was published in the
Federal Register on May 17, 2006 (71 FR 28615). That supplemental NPRM
proposed to continue to require an inspection for cracks of the lower
outboard flange of gantry No. 4 in the main landing gear (MLG) bay
area, and repair if necessary. That supplemental NPRM also proposed to
continue to require repetitive inspections of the gantry lower flanges,
and repair if necessary. In addition, that supplemental NPRM proposed
to require new repetitive inspections for cracks in the lower flange of
certain gantries, and repair if necessary, which ends the existing
inspection requirements. That supplemental NPRM also proposed optional
terminating actions for the new repetitive inspections. That
supplemental also revised the original NPRM by including additional
airplanes that were excluded from the applicability.
Comments
We provided the public the opportunity to participate in the
development of this AD. We have considered the comment that has been
received on the supplemental NPRM.
Request To Refer to Latest Service Bulletin
Airbus states that it has issued Service Bulletins A300-53-0360,
Revision 01, dated May 31, 2006; and A300-53-6132, Revision 01, dated
June 7, 2006; whose original issues are listed in paragraph (m)(2) of
the supplemental NPRM.
We infer that Airbus is requesting that Revision 01 of Service
Bulletins A300-53-0360 and A300-53-6132 be referred to in paragraph
(m)(2) of the AD. We agree. We have reviewed Revision 01 of both
service bulletins. Revision 01 of both service bulletins revises three
illustrations. The reinforcement procedures in Revision 01 of both
service bulletins are identical to that in the original issues of the
service bulletins. No additional work is required for airplanes
modified in accordance with the original issues of the service
bulletins. Therefore, we have revised paragraph (m)(2) of this AD to
refer to Revision 01 of both service bulletins and added a new
paragraph (p) to the AD (subsequent paragraphs have been redesignated)
to give credit for accomplishing the original issues of both service
bulletins.
Explanation of Change Made to the Supplemental NPRM
Paragraphs (g), (i)(4), and (n) of the supplemental NPRM specify
making repairs using a method approved by either the FAA or the
Direction G[eacute]n[eacute]rale de l'Aviation Civile (DGAC) (or its
delegated agent). The European
[[Page 41110]]
Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) has assumed responsibility for the
airplane modes that would be subject to this AD. Therefore, we have
revised those paragraphs of this AD to specify making repairs using a
method approved by either the FAA, the DGAC (or its delegated agent),
or the EASA (or its delegated agent).
Conclusion
We have carefully reviewed the available data, including the
comment that has been received, and determined that air safety and the
public interest require adopting the AD with the changes described
previously. We have determined that these changes will neither increase
the economic burden on any operator nor increase the scope of the AD.
Costs of Compliance
This AD will affect about 165 airplanes of U.S. registry. The
following table provides the estimated costs for U.S. operators to
comply with this AD. Not all actions must be completed on all
airplanes.
Estimated Costs for Required Actions
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Number of U.S.-
Action Work hours Average labor Parts Cost per airplane registered Fleet cost
rate per hour airplanes
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
One-time inspection (required by AD 1 $80 None...................... $80...................... 23 $1,840.
2003-26-10).
One-time inspection (required by AD 4 80 None...................... $320..................... 43 $13,760.
2004-18-13).
Repetitive inspections (required by AD 12 80 None...................... $960, per inspection 78 $74,880, per inspection cycle.
2004-18-13). cycle.
Repetitive inspections (new proposed 16 80 None...................... $1,280, per inspection 78 $99,840, per inspection cycle.
actions). cycle.
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Estimated Costs for Optional Actions
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Number of
Average Cost per U.S.-
Optional action Work hours labor rate Parts airplane registered
per hour airplanes
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Reinforcement specified in 807.............. $80 Between $87,100 Between $151,660 23
Airbus Service Bulletin A300- and $121,560 and $186,120
53-0380, dated August 5, 2005. depending on kit depending on
purchased. airplane
configuration.
Reinforcement specified in 807.............. 80 Between $82,460 Between $147,020 120
Airbus Service Bulletin A300- and $87,070 and $151,630
53-6153, dated August 24, depending on kit depending on
2005. purchased. airplane
configuration.
Reinforcement specified in Between 24 and 80 Between $250 and Between $2,170 23
Airbus Service Bulletin A300- 128 depending on $1,000 depending and $11,240
53-0360, Revision 01, dated airplane on kit purchased. depending on
May 31, 2002. configuration. airplane
configuration.
Reinforcement specified in 109.............. 80 Between $260 and Between $8,980 120
Airbus Service Bulletin A300- $950 depending and $9,670
53-6132, Revision 01, dated on kit purchased. depending on
June 7, 2006. airplane
configuration.
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
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); and
(3) Will not have a significant economic impact, positive or
negative, on a substantial number of small entities
[[Page 41111]]
under the criteria of the Regulatory Flexibility Act.
We prepared a regulatory evaluation of the estimated costs to
comply with this AD and placed it in the AD docket. See the ADDRESSES
section for a location to examine the regulatory evaluation.
List of Subjects in 14 CFR Part 39
Air transportation, Aircraft, Aviation safety, Incorporation by
reference, Safety.
Adoption of the Amendment
0
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 Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) amends Sec. 39.13 by
removing amendments 39-13408 (69 FR 867, January 7, 2004) and 39-13792
(69 FR 55329, September 14, 2004, and by adding the following new
airworthiness directive (AD):
2006-15-04 Airbus: Amendment 39-14684. Docket No. FAA-2006-23690;
Directorate Identifier 2004-NM-133-AD.
Effective Date
(a) This AD becomes effective August 24, 2006.
(b) This AD supersedes ADs 2003-26-10 and 2004-18-13.
Applicability
(c) This AD applies to Airbus airplanes identified in Table 1 of
this AD, certificated in any category.
Table 1.--Applicability
------------------------------------------------------------------------
-------------------------------------------------------------------------
Affected Airbus Airplanes
(1) All Model A300 B2-1A, B2-1C, B2K-3C, and B2-203 airplanes.
(2) All Model A300 B4-2C, B4-103, and B4-203 airplanes.
(3) All Model A300 B4-601, B4-603, B4-620, and B4-622 airplanes.
(4) All Model A300 B4-605R and B4-622R airplanes.
(5) All Model A300 F4-605R and F4-622R airplanes.
(6) All Model A300 C4-605R Variant F airplanes.
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Unsafe Condition
(d) This AD results from a report of a large fatigue crack along
the outboard flange of beam No. 4. We are issuing this AD to detect
and correct fatigue cracks in the lower flanges of the left and
right gantries 1 through 5 inclusive in the main landing gear (MLG)
bay area, which could result in reduced structural integrity of the
fuselage, and consequent rapid decompression of the airplane.
Compliance
(e) You are responsible for having the actions required by this
AD performed within the compliance times specified, unless the
actions have already been done.
Restatement of Requirements of AD 2003-26-10
One-Time Inspection
(f) For airplanes on which Airbus Modification 10147 has not
been done: At the later of the times specified in paragraphs (f)(1)
and (f)(2) of this AD: Do a one-time detailed inspection for
cracking of the lower outboard flange of gantry No. 4 in the MLG bay
area per paragraph 4.2.1 of Airbus All Operators Telex (AOT) A300-
53A0371, Revision 01 (for Model A300 B2 and B4 series airplanes); or
AOT A300-53A6145, Revision 01 (for Model A300-600 series airplanes);
both dated September 10, 2003; as applicable.
(1) Before the accumulation of 8,000 total flight cycles since
the date of issuance of the original Airworthiness Certificate or
the date of issuance of the Export Certificate of Airworthiness,
whichever is first.
(2) Within 30 days after January 22, 2004 (the effective date AD
2003-26-10).
Note 1: For the purposes of this AD, a detailed inspection is
defined as: ``An intensive visual examination of a specific
structural area, system, installation, or assembly to detect damage,
failure, or irregularity. Available lighting is normally
supplemented with a direct source of good lighting at intensity
deemed appropriate by the inspector. Inspection aids such as mirror,
magnifying lenses, etc., may be used. Surface cleaning and elaborate
access procedures may be required.''
Repair
(g) Repair any cracking found during the inspection required by
paragraph (f) of this AD before further flight, per a method
approved by either the Manager, International Branch, ANM-116,
Transport Airplane Directorate, FAA; the Direction
G[eacute]n[eacute]rale de l'Aviation Civile (DGAC) (or its delegated
agent); or the European Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) (or its
delegate agent).
Restatement of Requirements of AD 2004-18-13
One-Time Inspection and Corrective Action
(h) For Model A300 B2-1A, B2-1C, B2K-3C, and B2-203 airplanes,
and Model A300 B4-2C, B4-103, and B4-203 airplanes, on which Airbus
Modification 3474 has been done: Prior to the accumulation of 16,300
total flight cycles, or within 500 flight cycles after July 30, 1998
(the effective date of AD 98-13-37), whichever occurs later, perform
a one-time ultrasonic inspection for cracking of the gantry lower
flanges in the MLG bay area, in accordance with Airbus AOT 53-11,
dated October 13, 1997.
(1) If any cracking is detected, prior to further flight, repair
in accordance with the AOT.
(2) If no cracking is detected, no further action is required by
this paragraph.
Repetitive Inspections and Corrective Actions
(i) For Model A300 B4-601, B4-603, B4-605R, B4-620, B4-622R, C4-
605R Variant F airplanes, and F4-605R airplanes, on which Airbus
Modification 12169 has not been done in production: Perform the
requirements of paragraphs (i)(1), (i)(2), (i)(3), and (i)(4) of
this AD, in accordance with Airbus Service Bulletin A300-53-6128,
dated March 5, 2001.
(1) At the later of the times specified in paragraphs (i)(1)(i)
and (i)(1)(ii) of this AD, perform initial ultrasonic inspections or
high-frequency eddy current (HFEC) inspections for cracks of the
lower flanges of gantries 3, 4, and 5 between fuselage frames FR47
and FR54, in accordance with the Accomplishment Instructions,
including the Synoptic Chart contained in Figure 2, sheets 1 through
5 inclusive, of the service bulletin.
(i) In accordance with the thresholds specified in the Synoptic
Chart contained in Figure 2, sheets 1 through 5 inclusive, of the
service bulletin; or
(ii) Within 200 flight cycles after October 19, 2004 (the
effective date AD 2004-18-13).
(2) Perform repetitive ultrasonic inspections or high-frequency
eddy current inspections for cracks of the lower flanges of gantries
3, 4, and 5 between fuselage frames FR47 and FR54, in accordance
with the thresholds and Accomplishment Instructions, including the
Synoptic Chart contained in Figure 2, sheets 1 through 5 inclusive,
of the service bulletin.
(3) Perform repairs and reinforcements, in accordance with the
thresholds and the Accomplishment Instructions, including the
Synoptic Chart contained in Figure 2, sheets 1 through 5 inclusive,
of the service bulletin, except as specified in paragraph (i)(4) of
this AD.
(4) If a new crack is found during any action required by
paragraph (i)(1), (i)(2) or (i)(3) of this AD and the Synoptic Chart
contained in Figure 2, sheets 1 through 5 inclusive, of the service
bulletin specifies to contact Airbus for appropriate action: Prior
to further flight, repair per a method approved by the Manager,
International Branch, ANM-116; the DGAC (or its delegated agent); or
the European Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) (or its delegate agent).
Credit for Inspections Accomplished in Accordance With AOT
(j) Any inspection accomplished before October 19, 2004, in
accordance with Airbus AOT 53-11, dated October 13, 1997, is
acceptable for compliance with the corresponding inspection
specified in paragraph (i)(1) of this AD, for that inspection area
only. Operators must do the applicable inspections in paragraph
(i)(1) of this AD for the remaining inspection areas.
New Requirements of This AD
Repetitive Inspections
(k) At the later of the applicable times specified in the
``Threshold (FC)'' and ``Grace
[[Page 41112]]
Period'' columns of Tables 1 and 2 in paragraph 1.E of the
applicable service bulletin in Table 2 of this AD: Do an ultrasonic
inspection or HFEC inspection, including rework of the pressure
diaphragm, for cracks in the lower flanges of the left and right
gantries 1 through 5 inclusive between FR47 and FR54, in accordance
with the Accomplishment Instructions of the applicable service
bulletin in Table 2 of this AD. Repeat the inspection at the
applicable times specified in the ``Interval (FC)'' column of Tables
1 and 2 in paragraph 1.E of the applicable service bulletin in Table
2 of this AD. Accomplishment of the initial inspection ends the
inspections required by paragraphs (f), (h), and (i) of this AD.
Table 2.--Service Bulletins
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Airbus Service Bulletin-- For airplanes identified in--
------------------------------------------------------------------------
(1) A300-53-0379, Revision 01, dated Paragraphs (c)(1) and (c)(2) of
October 4, 2005. this AD inclusive.
(2) A300-53-6152, Revision 01, dated Paragraphs (c)(3) through
October 4, 2005. (c)(6) of this AD inclusive.
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Corrective Action
(l) If any crack is detected during any ultrasonic or HFEC
inspection required by paragraph (k) of this AD, before further
flight, repair the crack in accordance with the Accomplishment
Instructions of the applicable service bulletin in Table 2 of this
AD, except as provided by paragraph (n) of this AD.
Optional Terminating Actions
(m) Accomplishment of the actions specified in Table 3 of this
AD ends the repetitive inspections required by paragraph (k) of this
AD.
Table 3.--Optional Termianting Actions
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
By doing all the
actions in accordance For airplanes
Before or at the same time with-- Reinforce-- with the Accomplishment identified in--
Instructions of--
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
(1) The actions required by paragraph The flanges of the left Airbus Service Bulletin Paragraphs (c)(1) and
(k) of this AD and the action and right portals 1 A300-53-0380, dated (c)(2) of this AD
specified in paragraph (m)(2) of through 5 inclusive August 5, 2005, except inclusive.
this AD. between FR47 and FR54 as provided by
of the landing gear, paragraph (n) of this
including a rotating AD.
probe inspection for
cracks of holes and
repair if necessary.
Airbus Service Bulletin Paragraphs (c)(3)
A300-53-6153, dated through (c)(6) of this
August 24, 2005, AD inclusive.
except as provided by
paragraph (n) of this
AD.
(2) The actions required by paragraph Portals 3, 4, and 5 of Airbus Service Bulletin Paragraphs (c)(1) and
(k) of this AD. the plates/skin. A300-53-0360, Revision (c)(2) of this AD
01, dated May 31, inclusive.
2006, except as
provided by paragraph
(n) of this AD.
Airbus Service Bulletin Paragraphs (c)(3)
A300-53-6132, Revision through (c)(6) of this
01, dated June 7, AD inclusive.
2006, except as
provided by paragraph
(n) of this AD.
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Repair of Certain Cracks
(n) Where the applicable service bulletin recommends contacting
Airbus for appropriate action: Before further flight, repair the
crack in accordance with a method approved by the Manager,
International Branch, ANM-116; the DGAC (or its delegated agent); or
the European Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) (or its delegate agent).
Credit for Original Service Bulletins
(o) Accomplishing the inspections and repair before the
effective date of this AD in accordance with Airbus Service Bulletin
A300-53-0379, dated May 9, 2005; or Airbus Service Bulletin A300-53-
6152, dated May 9, 2005; as applicable; is acceptable for compliance
with the corresponding requirements of paragraphs (k) and (l) of
this AD.
(p) Accomplishing the reinforcement before the effective date of
this AD in accordance with Airbus Service Bulletin A300-53-0360,
dated May 3, 2002; and Airbus Service Bulletin A300-53-6132, dated
February 5, 2002; is acceptable for compliance with the
corresponding requirements of paragraph (m)(2) of this AD.
No Inspection Report
(q) Although the service bulletins in this AD specify to submit
certain information to the manufacturer, this AD does not include
that requirement.
Alternative Methods of Compliance (AMOCs)
(r)(1) The Manager, International Branch, ANM-116, has the
authority to approve AMOCs for this AD, if requested in accordance
with the procedures found in 14 CFR 39.19.
(2) Before using any AMOC approved in accordance with Sec.
39.19 on any airplane to which the AMOC applies, notify the
appropriate principal inspector in the FAA Flight Standards
Certificate Holding District Office.
Related Information
(s) French airworthiness directive F-2005-091 R1, issued
September 28, 2005, also addresses the subject of this AD.
Material Incorporated by Reference
(t) You must use the applicable service bulletins identified in
Table 4 of this AD to perform the actions that are required by this
AD, unless the AD specifies otherwise.
(1) The Director of the Federal Register approved the
incorporation by reference of the documents in Table 5 of this AD in
accordance with 5 U.S.C. 552(a) and 1 CFR part 51.
(2) On October 19, 2004 (69 FR 55329, September 14, 2004), the
Director of the Federal Register approved the incorporation by
reference of Airbus Service Bulletin A300-53-6128, excluding
Appendix 01, dated March 5, 2001.
(3) On January 22, 2004 (69 FR 867, January 7, 2004), the
Director of the Federal Register approved the incorporation by
reference of Airbus All Operators Telex A300-53A0371, Revision 01,
dated September 10, 2003; and Airbus All Operators Telex A300-
53A6145, Revision 01, dated September 10, 2003.
(4) On July 30, 1998 (63 FR 34589, June 25, 1998), the Director
of the Federal Register approved the incorporation by reference of
[[Page 41113]]
Airbus All Operators Telex (AOT) 53-11, dated October 13, 1997.
(5) Contact Airbus, 1 Rond Point Maurice Bellonte, 31707 Blagnac
Cedex, France, for a copy of this service information. You may
review copies at the Docket Management Facility, U.S. Department of
Transportation, 400 Seventh Street, SW., Room PL-401, Nassif
Building, Washington, DC; on the Internet at http://dms.dot.gov; or
at the National Archives and Records Administration (NARA). For
information on the availability of this material at the NARA, call
(202) 741-6030, or go to http://www.archives.gov/federal_register/code_of_federal_regulations/ibr_locations.html.
Table 4.--All Material Incorporated by Reference
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Service Bulletin Revision level Date
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Airbus All Operators Telex A300-53A0371. 01......................... September 10, 2003.
Airbus All Operators Telex A300-53A6145. 01......................... September 10, 2003.
Airbus All Operators Telex (AOT) 53-11.. Original................... October 13, 1997.
Airbus Service Bulletin A300-53-0379, 01......................... October 4, 2005.
excluding Appendix 01.
Airbus Service Bulletin A300-53-6128, Original................... March 5, 2001.
excluding Appendix 01.
Airbus Service Bulletin A300-53-6152, 01......................... October 4, 2005.
excluding Appendix 01.
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Table 5.--New Material Incorporated by Reference
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Service Bulletin Revision level Date
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Airbus Service Bulletin A300-53-0379, 01......................... October 4, 2005.
excluding Appendix 01.
Airbus Service Bulletin A300-53-6152, 01......................... October 4, 2005.
excluding Appendix 01.
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Issued in Renton, Washington, on July 7, 2006.
Ali Bahrami,
Manager, Transport Airplane Directorate, Aircraft Certification
Service.
[FR Doc. E6-11412 Filed 7-19-06; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE 4910-13-P
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