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Published 2008-02-05 · Federal Register document E8-1813

Airworthiness Directives; McDonnell Douglas 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, and DC-8-43 Airplanes; Model DC-8F-54 and DC-8F-55 Airplanes; Model DC-8-50, -60, -60F, -70, and -70F Series Airplanes; Model DC-9-10, -20, -30, -40, and -50 Series Airplanes; Model DC-9-81 (MD-81), DC-9-82 (MD-82), DC-9-83 (MD-83), and DC-9-87 (MD-87) Airplanes; and Model MD-88 Airplanes

Publication summary

The FAA is superseding an existing airworthiness directive (AD), which applies to certain McDonnell Douglas airplanes. The existing AD currently requires an initial general visual or dye penetrant inspection, repetitive dye penetrant inspections, and replacement, as necessary, of the rudder pedal bracket. The existing AD also currently requires, for certain airplanes, replacing the rudder pedal bracket assemblies with new, improved parts, which would terminate the repetitive inspections. For certain airplanes, this new AD requires initial inspection at a reduced threshold, removes an inspection option, and lengthens the repetitive inspection intervals. This AD results from reports of failures of the captain's rudder pedal brackets before reaching the initial inspection threshold identified in the existing AD. We are issuing this AD to prevent failure of the rudder pedal bracket assembly, which could result in the loss of rudder and braking control at either the captain's or first officer's position.

Why this record is shown

Source: Federal Register annual FAA metadata. Acquired 2026-09-03T22:23:26.953736+00:00. The title, summary and date are source facts.

Source revision
federal_register_ad_metadata_2008-e9cf118935fdae82
Source row
results[48]
Raw source SHA-256
e9cf118935fdae82a000e2c01764c770bd79679c1dd4c2b00fdcd3b030f92fe5

Final-rule publication

Recorded publication clauses

AD identifier printed in this edition
2008-03-12
Effective date printed in this edition
2008-03-11
Read 13 complete recorded clauses
Effective Date
Effective Date

    (a) This AD becomes effective March 11, 2008.

[[Page 6580]]

Exact source excerpt. Text positions 12533–12615, end exclusive, in the original decoded publication. SHA-256: f463cc7eb80e50f825e14cdaf3abec9ac304b951f19fad12fce9c33c45175ca7

Affected ADs
Affected ADs

    (b) This AD supersedes AD 2006-07-25.

Exact source excerpt. Text positions 12615–12672, end exclusive, in the original decoded publication. SHA-256: 4bb0caf9c5ec81678e9df18c6ade7943f826b15c5e665d89d8c219c09c329e33

Applicability wording · Applicability
Applicability

    (c) This AD applies to the airplanes identified in Table 1 of 
this AD, certificated in any category.

                         Table 1.--Applicability
------------------------------------------------------------------------
            McDonnell Douglas--                  As identified in--
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Model DC-8-11, DC-8-12, DC-8-21, DC-8-31,   McDonnell Douglas DC-8 Alert
 DC-8-32, DC-8-33, DC-8-41, DC-8-42, and     Service Bulletin A27-273,
 DC-8-43 airplanes; Model DC-8-51, DC-8-     Revision 5, dated February
 52, DC-8-53, and DC-8-55 airplanes; Model   18, 1993.
 DC-8F-54 and DC-8F-55 airplanes; Model DC-
 8-61, DC-8-62, and DC-8-63 airplanes;
 Model DC-8-61F, DC-8-62F, and DC-8-63F
 airplanes; Model DC-8-71, DC-8-72, and DC-
 8-73 airplanes; Model DC-8-71F, DC-8-72F,
 and DC-8-73F airplanes.
Model DC-9-11, DC-9-12, DC-9-13, DC-9-14,   Boeing Alert Service
 DC-9-15, and DC-9-15F airplanes; Model DC-  Bulletin DC9-27A307,
 9-21 airplanes; Model DC-9-31, DC-9-32,     Revision 7, dated August
 DC-9-32 (VC-9C), DC-9-32F, DC-9-33F, DC-9-  29, 2006.
 34, DC-9-34F, and DC-9-32F (C-9A, C-9B)
 airplanes; Model DC-9-41 airplanes; Model
 DC-9-51 airplanes; Model DC-9-81 (MD-81),
 DC-9-82 (MD-82), DC-9-83 (MD-83), and DC-
 9-87 (MD-87) airplanes; and Model MD-88
 airplanes.
------------------------------------------------------------------------

Exact source excerpt. Text positions 12672–14116, end exclusive, in the original decoded publication. SHA-256: d25bbc6846cabdc82653a39ba03aaffed93280a747482a736aff60b51b34b294

Unsafe Condition
Unsafe Condition

    (d) This AD results from reports of failures of the captain's 
rudder pedal brackets before reaching the initial inspection 
threshold identified in AD 2006-07-25. We are issuing this AD to 
prevent failure of the rudder pedal bracket assembly, which could 
result in the loss of rudder and braking control at either the 
captain's or first officer's position.

Exact source excerpt. Text positions 14116–14500, end exclusive, in the original decoded publication. SHA-256: 1faee4bf60116b3f5f98dac3d0dd88caeb74fb949c00336ae561240453b3fc79

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.

Exact source excerpt. Text positions 14500–14678, end exclusive, in the original decoded publication. SHA-256: 64a7a1579f37f56eafecd0aeb3c528e7c89f6292ed0cb53091423917642d5847

Service Information and Airplane Categories
Service Information and Airplane Categories

    (f) The term ``service bulletin,'' as used in this AD, means the 
Accomplishment Instructions of the applicable service bulletin 
identified in Table 2 of this AD. The term ``airplane category,'' as 
used in this AD, means the category identified in Table 2 of this 
AD.

          Table 2.--Service Information and Airplane Categories
------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                      Called
           For Model--               airplane              Use--
                                    category--
------------------------------------------------------------------------
(1) DC-8-11, DC-8-12, DC-8-21,                 1  McDonnell Douglas DC-8
 DC-8-31, DC-8-32, DC-8-33, DC-8-                  Alert Service
 41, DC-8-42, and DC-8-43                          Bulletin A27-273,
 airplanes; Model DC-8-51, DC-8-                   Revision 1, dated May
 52, DC-8-53, and DC-8-55                          16, 1989; or Revision
 airplanes; Model DC-8F-54 and                     5, dated February 18,
 DC-8F-55 airplanes; Model DC-8-                   1993.
 61, DC-8-62, and DC-8-63
 airplanes; Model DC-8-61F, DC-8-
 62F, and DC-8-63F airplanes;
 Model DC-8-71, DC-8-72, and DC-
 8-73 airplanes.
(2) DC-8-71F, DC-8-72F, and DC-8-              2
 73F airplanes.
(3) DC-9-11, DC-9-12, DC-9-13,                 3  McDonnell Douglas DC-9
 DC-9-14, DC-9-15, and DC-9-15F                    Alert Service
 airplanes; Model DC-9-21                          Bulletin A27-307,
 airplanes; Model DC-9-31, DC-9-                   Revision 1, dated May
 32, DC-9-32 (VC-9C), DC-9-32F,                    16, 1989; or Boeing
 DC-9-33F, DC-9-34, DC-9-34F,                      Alert Service
 and DC-9-32F (C-9A, C-9B)                         Bulletin DC9-27A307,
 airplanes; Model DC-9-41                          Revision 7, dated
 airplanes; Model DC-9-51                          August 29, 2006,
 airplanes.                                        after the effective
                                                   date of this AD, only
                                                   Revision 7 may be
                                                   used.
(4) DC-9-81 (MD-81), DC-9-82 (MD-              4
 82), DC-9-83 (MD-83), and DC-9-
 87 (MD-87) airplanes; and Model
 MD-88 airplanes.
------------------------------------------------------------------------

Requirements of AD 2006-07-25

Exact source excerpt. Text positions 14678–17187, end exclusive, in the original decoded publication. SHA-256: 8b795f8888b54b2407060021505a52652ee6a5f89005e1ca1a35e905ffa008dc

Initial Inspection Threshold
Initial Inspection Threshold

    (g) For airplane categories 1, 3, and 4, prior to the 
accumulation of 40,000 total landings or within 30 days after July 
5, 1989 (the effective date of AD 89-14-02, amendment 39-6245, which 
was superseded by AD 2006-07-25), whichever occurs later: Perform 
either a general visual inspection, dye penetrant inspection, or 
special detailed inspection (eddy current with dye penetrant or just 
dye penetrant), as applicable, for cracking of the captain's and 
first officer's rudder pedal bracket, part numbers (P/N) 5616067 and 
5616068, respectively, in accordance with the Accomplishment 
Instructions of the applicable service bulletin specified in Table 2 
of this AD. After the effective date of this AD, only the special 
detailed inspection specified in Boeing Alert Service Bulletin DC9-
27A307, Revision 7, dated August 29, 2006, may be used for airplanes 
identified in Revision 7. For airplane category 4: Do the inspection 
required by this paragraph until the inspection required by 
paragraph (j) of this AD is accomplished.

    Note 1: For the purposes of this AD, a general visual inspection 
is: ``A visual examination of an interior or exterior area, 
installation, or assembly to detect obvious damage, failure, or 
irregularity. This level of inspection is made from within touching 
distance unless otherwise specified. A mirror may be necessary to 
ensure visual access to all surfaces in the inspection area. This 
level of inspection is made under normally available lighting 
conditions such as daylight, hangar lighting, flashlight, or 
droplight and may require removal or opening of access panels or 
doors. Stands, ladders, or platforms may be required to gain 
proximity to the area being checked.''

    (1) If an initial general visual inspection is accomplished, and 
no crack is found, perform a dye penetrant inspection of the rudder 
pedal bracket assembly within 180 days after the general visual 
inspection, and thereafter accomplish dye penetrant inspections at 
intervals not to exceed 12 months or 2,500 landings, whichever 
occurs earlier. For airplane categories 3 and 4, repeat at this 
interval until the inspection required by paragraph (k) of this AD 
is accomplished.
    (2) If an initial dye penetrant inspection is accomplished, and 
no crack is found, accomplish repetitive dye penetrant inspections 
at intervals not to exceed 12 months or 2,500 landings, whichever 
occurs earlier. For airplane categories 3 and 4, repeat at this 
interval until the inspection required by paragraph (k) of this AD 
is accomplished.
    (3) If an initial special detailed inspection is accomplished 
after the effective date of this AD, and no crack is found, repeat 
the

[[Page 6581]]

inspection in accordance with paragraph (k) of this AD.

Exact source excerpt. Text positions 17187–20008, end exclusive, in the original decoded publication. SHA-256: 300c3b55d0f60e557f3858c55330f5e0e630fe3f6e908c5786ccfec8448cb36a

Corrective Action
Corrective Action

    (h) Except as provided by paragraph (l) of this AD: If any crack 
is detected during any inspection required by paragraph (g) or (j) 
of this AD, before further flight, remove and replace the rudder 
pedal bracket assembly in accordance with the service bulletin. 
Prior to the accumulation of 40,000 total landings after replacement 
with a part that has the same number as the part inspected, resume 
the repetitive inspections in accordance with paragraph (g) or (k) 
of this AD, as applicable. Doing the action required by paragraph 
(l) of this AD terminates the requirements of this paragraph for 
airplane category 4.

Exact source excerpt. Text positions 20008–20657, end exclusive, in the original decoded publication. SHA-256: bf899b1978ff8e1105acfb3c331eb3aa65090505c24346a715849ccd29fde768

Terminating Action for Certain Airplanes
Terminating Action for Certain Airplanes

    (i) For airplane categories 3 and 4: Do the actions in 
paragraphs (i)(1) and (i)(2) of this AD in accordance with the 
Accomplishment Instructions of the applicable service bulletin 
specified in Table 2 of this AD.
    (1) Before the accumulation of 75,000 total landings on the 
captain's rudder pedal bracket assembly, P/N 5616067-501, or within 
60 months after May 16, 2006, whichever occurs later: Remove the 
rudder pedal bracket assembly and replace it with new, improved P/N 
5962903-501. Accomplishment of the replacement terminates the 
repetitive inspections of the captain's rudder pedal bracket 
assembly required by paragraphs (g), (h), (j), (k), and (l) of this 
AD.
    (2) Before the accumulation of 75,000 total landings on the 
first officer's rudder pedal bracket assembly, P/N 5616068-501, or 
within 60 months after May 16, 2006, whichever occurs later: Remove 
the rudder pedal bracket assembly and replace it with new, improved 
P/N 5962904-501. Accomplishment of the replacement terminates the 
repetitive inspections of the first officer's rudder pedal bracket 
assembly required by paragraphs (g), (h), (j), (k), and (l) of this 
AD.

New Requirements of This AD

Exact source excerpt. Text positions 20657–21896, end exclusive, in the original decoded publication. SHA-256: 65a2965eee9edb4ed96f732b5107aa2e25a8c9db9291975c491529f9d3720471

Revised Initial Inspection at Reduced Threshold for Certain Airplanes
Revised Initial Inspection at Reduced Threshold for Certain Airplanes

    (j) For airplane categories 2 and 4, at the applicable time 
specified in paragraph (j)(1), (j)(2) or (j)(3) of this AD: Do a 
general visual and penetrant inspection (for airplane category 2), 
and a special detailed inspection (for airplane category 4), as 
applicable, to detect cracking of the captain's and first officer's 
rudder pedal bracket, part numbers (P/N) 5616067 and 5616068, 
respectively, in accordance with the applicable service bulletin 
specified in Table 2 of this AD. Procedures for the dye penetrant 
inspection for airplane category 2 are contained only in the 
Accomplishment Instructions of McDonnell Douglas DC-8 Alert Service 
Bulletin A27-273, Revision 1, dated May 16, 1989. Procedures for the 
special detailed inspection are contained in Boeing Alert Service 
Bulletin DC9-27A307, Revision 7, dated August 29, 2006. Doing the 
applicable inspection required by this paragraph terminates the 
inspection requirements of paragraphs (g) and (h) of this AD for 
airplane category 4.
    (1) For category 2 airplanes: Before the accumulation of 40,000 
total landings on the installed part, or within 30 days after the 
effective date of this AD, whichever occurs later.
    (2) For category 4 airplanes that have accumulated fewer than 
25,000 total landings as of the effective date of this AD: Before 
the accumulation of 25,000 total landings, or within 3,000 landings 
after the effective date of this AD, whichever occurs later.
    (3) For category 4 airplanes that have accumulated 25,000 or 
more total landings as of the effective date of this AD, do the next 
inspection at the applicable time in paragraph (j)(3)(i) or 
(j)(3)(ii) of this AD.
    (i) For category 4 airplanes on which the corrective action 
specified in paragraph (h) of this AD has not been accomplished, do 
the inspection within 3,000 landings after the effective date of 
this AD.
    (ii) For category 4 airplanes on which the corrective action 
required by paragraph (h) of this AD has been accomplished, do the 
inspection at the earlier of the following: The next repetitive 
interval required by paragraph (h) of this AD; 40,000 total landings 
after doing the corrective action required by paragraph (h) of this 
AD; or 3,000 landings after the effective date of this AD.

Exact source excerpt. Text positions 21896–24261, end exclusive, in the original decoded publication. SHA-256: 49880f8b5b9fa5af5e9e5fbf1dd45cbec7d488394871a3f36fa88eca7cead28f

Repetitive Inspections at Revised Interval for Certain Airplanes
Repetitive Inspections at Revised Interval for Certain Airplanes

    (k) For airplane categories 3 and 4: Repeat the special detailed 
inspection required by paragraph (g) or (j) of this AD thereafter at 
intervals not to exceed 3,000 landings. Doing the first repetitive 
inspection required by this paragraph terminates the repetitive 
inspection requirements of paragraph (g) of this AD for airplane 
categories 3 and 4.

Exact source excerpt. Text positions 24261–24687, end exclusive, in the original decoded publication. SHA-256: d765a8bfabf729220db0d0142c8785c5fdd03230a5b55e07752503e74c0e2eba

Corrective Action Including Reduced Inspection Threshold for Certain Airplanes
Corrective Action Including Reduced Inspection Threshold for Certain 
Airplanes

    (l) For airplane category 4: If any crack is detected during any 
inspection required by paragraph (g), (j), or (k) of this AD: Before 
further flight, remove and replace the rudder pedal bracket assembly 
with a part that has the same part number as the one inspected, in 
accordance with the applicable service bulletin specified in Table 2 
of this AD. Before the accumulation of 25,000 total landings after 
replacement, resume the repetitive inspections in accordance with 
paragraph (k) of this AD. Doing the action in this paragraph 
terminates the requirements of paragraph (h) of this AD for airplane 
category 4.

Alternative Methods of Compliance (AMOCs)

     (m)(1) The Manager, Los Angeles Aircraft Certification Office, 
Transport Airplane Directorate, FAA, has the authority to approve 
AMOCs for this AD, if requested in accordance with the procedures 
found in 14 CFR 39.19.
    (2) To request a different method of compliance or a different 
compliance time for this AD, follow the procedures in 14 CFR 39.19. 
Before using any approved AMOC on any airplane to which the AMOC 
applies, notify your appropriate principal inspector (PI) in the FAA 
Flight Standards District Office (FSDO), or lacking a PI, your local 
FSDO.
    (3) AMOCs, approved previously in accordance with AD 2006-07-25, 
amendment 39-14552; and AD 89-14-02, amendment 39-6245; are approved 
as AMOCs for the corresponding requirements of this AD.

Exact source excerpt. Text positions 24687–26211, end exclusive, in the original decoded publication. SHA-256: 7d76c498ea6fd6bac8c8de9b8bf9dd9b8cfa51390dea37473337fc60c7556af3

Material Incorporated by Reference
Material Incorporated by Reference

    (n) You must use the service information listed in Table 3 of 
this AD to perform the actions that are required by this AD, unless 
the AD specifies otherwise.

             Table 3.--All Material Incorporated by Reference
------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                  Revision
        Service Bulletin           level                 Date
------------------------------------------------------------------------
 McDonnell Douglas DC-8 Alert             1  May 16, 1989.
 Service Bulletin A27-273.
 McDonnell Douglas DC-8 Alert             5  February 18, 1993.
 Service Bulletin A27-273.
 McDonnell Douglas DC-9 Alert             1  May 16, 1989.
 Service Bulletin A27-307.
 Boeing Alert Service bulletin            7  August 29, 2006.
 DC9-27A307.
------------------------------------------------------------------------

    (1) The Director of the Federal Register approved the 
incorporation by reference of McDonnell Douglas DC-8 Alert Service 
Bulletin A27-273, Revision 5, dated February 18, 1993; and Boeing 
Alert Service Bulletin DC9-27A307, Revision 7, dated August 29, 
2006; in accordance with 5 U.S.C. 552(a) and 1 CFR part 51.
    (2) On May 16, 2006 (71 FR 18201, April 11, 2006), the Director 
of the Federal Register approved the incorporation by reference of 
McDonnell Douglas DC-8 Alert Service Bulletin A27-273, Revision 1, 
dated May 16, 1989; and McDonnell Douglas DC-9 Alert Service 
Bulletin A27-307, Revision 1, dated May 16, 1989.
    (3) Contact Boeing Commercial Airplanes, Long Beach Division, 
3855 Lakewood Boulevard, Long Beach, California 90846, Attention: 
Data and Service Management, Dept. C1-L5A (D800-0024), for a copy of 
this service information. You may review copies at the FAA, 
Transport Airplane Directorate, 1601 Lind Avenue SW., Renton, 
Washington;

[[Page 6582]]

or 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 26211–28350, end exclusive, in the original decoded publication. SHA-256: ffddf87357328821d422a2f802503cf5049689ab4f7d0dabc0e8fa4b42c34ec2

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 2008-03-12 · 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: ab37ea64ad72630a0a46ce13041f67bd38a01a4aa5c12deee3248cfc6d42ed67. Source manifest: 20a63b38ca31c7d71be6185093a66aed874b547e0d24f6f7a18183ae45beef40.

Official source · 2008-02-05

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 73, Number 24 (Tuesday, February 5, 2008)]
[Rules and Regulations]
[Pages 6578-6582]
From the Federal Register Online via the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]
[FR Doc No: E8-1813]


=======================================================================
-----------------------------------------------------------------------

DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION

Federal Aviation Administration

14 CFR Part 39

[Docket No. FAA-2007-29061; Directorate Identifier 2006-NM-243-AD; 
Amendment 39-15362; AD 2008-03-12]
RIN 2120-AA64


Airworthiness Directives; McDonnell Douglas 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, and DC-8-43 
Airplanes; Model DC-8F-54 and DC-8F-55 Airplanes; Model DC-8-50, -60, -
60F, -70, and -70F Series Airplanes; Model DC-9-10, -20, -30, -40, and 
-50 Series Airplanes; Model DC-9-81 (MD-81), DC-9-82 (MD-82), DC-9-83 
(MD-83), and DC-9-87 (MD-87) Airplanes; and Model MD-88 Airplanes

AGENCY: Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), Department of 
Transportation (DOT).

ACTION: Final rule.

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

SUMMARY: The FAA is superseding an existing airworthiness directive 
(AD), which applies to certain McDonnell Douglas airplanes. The 
existing AD currently requires an initial general visual or dye 
penetrant inspection, repetitive dye penetrant inspections, and 
replacement, as necessary, of the rudder pedal bracket. The existing AD 
also currently requires, for certain airplanes, replacing the rudder 
pedal bracket assemblies with new, improved parts, which would 
terminate the repetitive inspections. For certain airplanes, this new 
AD requires initial inspection at a reduced threshold, removes an 
inspection option, and lengthens the repetitive inspection intervals. 
This AD results from reports of failures of the captain's rudder pedal 
brackets before reaching the initial inspection threshold identified in 
the existing AD. We are issuing this AD to prevent failure of the 
rudder pedal bracket assembly, which could result in the loss of rudder 
and braking control at either the captain's or first officer's 
position.

DATES: This AD becomes effective March 11, 2008.
    The Director of the Federal Register approved the incorporation by 
reference of certain publications listed in the AD as of March 11, 
2008.
    On May 16, 2006 (71 FR 18201, April 11, 2006), the Director of the 
Federal Register approved the incorporation by reference of certain 
other publications listed in the AD.

ADDRESSES: For service information identified in this AD, contact 
Boeing Commercial Airplanes, Long Beach Division, 3855 Lakewood 
Boulevard, Long Beach, California 90846, Attention: Data and Service 
Management, Dept. C1-L5A (D800-0024).

Examining the AD Docket

    You may examine the AD docket on the Internet at http://www.regulations.gov; 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 (telephone 800-647-5527) is the Document Management 
Facility, U.S. Department of Transportation, Docket Operations, M-30, 
West Building Ground Floor, Room W12-140, 1200 New Jersey Avenue, SE., 
Washington, DC 20590.

FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Wahib Mina, Aerospace Engineer, 
Airframe Branch, ANM-120L, FAA, Los Angeles Aircraft Certification 
Office, 3960 Paramount Boulevard, Lakewood, California 90712-4137; 
telephone (562) 627-5324; fax (562) 627-5210.

SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION:

Discussion

    The FAA issued a notice of proposed rulemaking (NPRM) to amend 14 
CFR part 39 to include an AD that supersedes AD 2006-07-25, amendment 
39-14552 (71 FR 18201, April 11, 2006). The existing AD applies to 
certain McDonnell Douglas airplanes. That NPRM was published in the 
Federal Register on August 31, 2007 (72 FR 50284). That NPRM proposed 
to retain the requirements of AD 2006-07-25. That NPRM also, for 
certain airplanes, proposed to reduce certain initial inspection 
thresholds, remove an inspection option, and lengthen certain 
repetitive inspection intervals.

Comments

    We provided the public the opportunity to participate in the 
development of this AD. We have considered the comments that have been 
received on the NPRM.

Request To Clarify Repetitive Inspections

    Air Transport Association (ATA), on behalf of its member American 
Airlines, requests that we clarify paragraphs (h) and (l) of the NPRM. 
These paragraphs specify repetitive inspections to continue based on 
the part number of the replaced rudder pedal bracket assemblies in 
accordance with paragraph (g) or (k) of the NPRM. The commenters state 
that the referenced rudder pedal bracket assemblies should be clarified 
to indicate that repetitive inspections apply only to rudder pedal 
bracket assemblies that are of the same part number as the ones 
inspected.
    We agree with the request for the reasons stated. The intent of the 
replacement in paragraphs (h) and (l) of the NPRM is to replace the 
rudder pedal bracket assemblies with a part that has the same part 
number as the part inspected. Therefore, we have revised paragraph (h) 
and (l) of the AD to replace the words ``new part'' with ``same part 
number as the one inspected.''

Request To Clarify Inspection Criteria in Paragraph (j) of the NPRM

    ATA, on behalf of its member ASTAR Air Cargo, requests that we 
clarify the inspection criteria in paragraph (j) of the NPRM. The 
commenters note that paragraph (j) of the NPRM specifies a special 
detailed inspection in accordance with McDonnell Douglas

[[Page 6579]]

DC-8 Alert Service Bulletin A27-273, Revision 1, dated May 16, 1989; or 
Revision 5, dated February 18, 1993. The commenters point out that the 
service bulletins do not have any inspection criteria listed.
    We agree with the commenters that the paragraph needs 
clarification. The intent of paragraph (j) of the AD is to specify a 
general visual inspection and penetrant inspection for Category 2 
airplanes in accordance with McDonnell Douglas DC-8 Alert Service 
Bulletin A27-273, Revision 1. Revision 1 of that service bulletin 
contains the inspection criteria. The intent of paragraph (j) was to 
specify a special detailed inspection for Category 4 airplanes in 
accordance with Boeing Alert Service Bulletin DC9-27A307, Revision 7, 
dated August 29, 2006. Revision 7 of that service bulletin contains the 
inspection criteria. We have revised paragraph (j) of the AD to clarify 
the requirements.

Request To Clarify Compliance Time in Paragraph (j)(1) of the NPRM

    ATA, on behalf of its member ASTAR Air Cargo, also notes that 
paragraph (j)(1) of the NPRM specifies a compliance time of within 
40,000 total landings or 30 days after the effective date of the AD, 
whichever occurs later. The commenters state that paragraph (j)(1) 
should refer instead to 40,000 total landings on the installed part.
    We agree with the commenters. McDonnell Douglas DC-8 Alert Service 
Bulletin A27-273, Revision 1, and Revision 5, specify a compliance time 
based on the accumulation of 40,000 total landings on the bracket 
assembly. We have revised paragraph (j)(1) of the AD to specify that 
the compliance time is 40,000 total landings on the installed part.

Conclusion

    We have carefully reviewed the available data, including the 
comments that have 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

    There are about 1,840 airplanes of the affected design in the 
worldwide fleet. The following table provides the estimated costs for 
U.S. operators to comply with this AD. The replacements are applicable 
only to Model DC-9-10, -20, -30, -40, and -50 series airplanes; Model 
DC-9-81 (MD-81), DC-9-82 (MD-82), DC-9-83 (MD-83), and DC-9-87 (MD-87) 
airplanes; and Model MD-88 airplanes.

                                                                     Estimated Costs
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                  Average
                                         Work      labor                                                     Number of U.S.-
               Action                   hours     rate per         Parts            Cost per airplane     registered  airplanes         Fleet cost
                                                    hour
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
General visual inspection (required           3        $80  None...............  $240, per inspection    250....................  $60,000, per
 by AD 2006-07-25).                                                               cycle.                                           inspection cycle.
Dye penetrant (special detailed)              5         80  None...............  $400, per inspection    946....................  $378,400, per
 inspection (required by AD 2006-07-                                              cycle.                                           inspection cycle.
 25).
Replacements (required by AD 2006-07-         9         80  $9,466.............  $10,186...............  up to 946..............  up to $9,635,956.
 25).
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

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 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 amendment 39-14552 (71 FR 18201, April 11, 2006) and by adding 
the following new airworthiness directive (AD):

2008-03-12 McDonnell Douglas: Amendment 39-15362. Docket No. FAA-
2007-29061; Directorate Identifier 2006-NM-243-AD.

Effective Date

    (a) This AD becomes effective March 11, 2008.

[[Page 6580]]

Affected ADs

    (b) This AD supersedes AD 2006-07-25.

Applicability

    (c) This AD applies to the airplanes identified in Table 1 of 
this AD, certificated in any category.

                         Table 1.--Applicability
------------------------------------------------------------------------
            McDonnell Douglas--                  As identified in--
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Model DC-8-11, DC-8-12, DC-8-21, DC-8-31,   McDonnell Douglas DC-8 Alert
 DC-8-32, DC-8-33, DC-8-41, DC-8-42, and     Service Bulletin A27-273,
 DC-8-43 airplanes; Model DC-8-51, DC-8-     Revision 5, dated February
 52, DC-8-53, and DC-8-55 airplanes; Model   18, 1993.
 DC-8F-54 and DC-8F-55 airplanes; Model DC-
 8-61, DC-8-62, and DC-8-63 airplanes;
 Model DC-8-61F, DC-8-62F, and DC-8-63F
 airplanes; Model DC-8-71, DC-8-72, and DC-
 8-73 airplanes; Model DC-8-71F, DC-8-72F,
 and DC-8-73F airplanes.
Model DC-9-11, DC-9-12, DC-9-13, DC-9-14,   Boeing Alert Service
 DC-9-15, and DC-9-15F airplanes; Model DC-  Bulletin DC9-27A307,
 9-21 airplanes; Model DC-9-31, DC-9-32,     Revision 7, dated August
 DC-9-32 (VC-9C), DC-9-32F, DC-9-33F, DC-9-  29, 2006.
 34, DC-9-34F, and DC-9-32F (C-9A, C-9B)
 airplanes; Model DC-9-41 airplanes; Model
 DC-9-51 airplanes; Model DC-9-81 (MD-81),
 DC-9-82 (MD-82), DC-9-83 (MD-83), and DC-
 9-87 (MD-87) airplanes; and Model MD-88
 airplanes.
------------------------------------------------------------------------

Unsafe Condition

    (d) This AD results from reports of failures of the captain's 
rudder pedal brackets before reaching the initial inspection 
threshold identified in AD 2006-07-25. We are issuing this AD to 
prevent failure of the rudder pedal bracket assembly, which could 
result in the loss of rudder and braking control at either the 
captain's or first officer's position.

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.

Service Information and Airplane Categories

    (f) The term ``service bulletin,'' as used in this AD, means the 
Accomplishment Instructions of the applicable service bulletin 
identified in Table 2 of this AD. The term ``airplane category,'' as 
used in this AD, means the category identified in Table 2 of this 
AD.

          Table 2.--Service Information and Airplane Categories
------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                      Called
           For Model--               airplane              Use--
                                    category--
------------------------------------------------------------------------
(1) DC-8-11, DC-8-12, DC-8-21,                 1  McDonnell Douglas DC-8
 DC-8-31, DC-8-32, DC-8-33, DC-8-                  Alert Service
 41, DC-8-42, and DC-8-43                          Bulletin A27-273,
 airplanes; Model DC-8-51, DC-8-                   Revision 1, dated May
 52, DC-8-53, and DC-8-55                          16, 1989; or Revision
 airplanes; Model DC-8F-54 and                     5, dated February 18,
 DC-8F-55 airplanes; Model DC-8-                   1993.
 61, DC-8-62, and DC-8-63
 airplanes; Model DC-8-61F, DC-8-
 62F, and DC-8-63F airplanes;
 Model DC-8-71, DC-8-72, and DC-
 8-73 airplanes.
(2) DC-8-71F, DC-8-72F, and DC-8-              2
 73F airplanes.
(3) DC-9-11, DC-9-12, DC-9-13,                 3  McDonnell Douglas DC-9
 DC-9-14, DC-9-15, and DC-9-15F                    Alert Service
 airplanes; Model DC-9-21                          Bulletin A27-307,
 airplanes; Model DC-9-31, DC-9-                   Revision 1, dated May
 32, DC-9-32 (VC-9C), DC-9-32F,                    16, 1989; or Boeing
 DC-9-33F, DC-9-34, DC-9-34F,                      Alert Service
 and DC-9-32F (C-9A, C-9B)                         Bulletin DC9-27A307,
 airplanes; Model DC-9-41                          Revision 7, dated
 airplanes; Model DC-9-51                          August 29, 2006,
 airplanes.                                        after the effective
                                                   date of this AD, only
                                                   Revision 7 may be
                                                   used.
(4) DC-9-81 (MD-81), DC-9-82 (MD-              4
 82), DC-9-83 (MD-83), and DC-9-
 87 (MD-87) airplanes; and Model
 MD-88 airplanes.
------------------------------------------------------------------------

Requirements of AD 2006-07-25

Initial Inspection Threshold

    (g) For airplane categories 1, 3, and 4, prior to the 
accumulation of 40,000 total landings or within 30 days after July 
5, 1989 (the effective date of AD 89-14-02, amendment 39-6245, which 
was superseded by AD 2006-07-25), whichever occurs later: Perform 
either a general visual inspection, dye penetrant inspection, or 
special detailed inspection (eddy current with dye penetrant or just 
dye penetrant), as applicable, for cracking of the captain's and 
first officer's rudder pedal bracket, part numbers (P/N) 5616067 and 
5616068, respectively, in accordance with the Accomplishment 
Instructions of the applicable service bulletin specified in Table 2 
of this AD. After the effective date of this AD, only the special 
detailed inspection specified in Boeing Alert Service Bulletin DC9-
27A307, Revision 7, dated August 29, 2006, may be used for airplanes 
identified in Revision 7. For airplane category 4: Do the inspection 
required by this paragraph until the inspection required by 
paragraph (j) of this AD is accomplished.

    Note 1: For the purposes of this AD, a general visual inspection 
is: ``A visual examination of an interior or exterior area, 
installation, or assembly to detect obvious damage, failure, or 
irregularity. This level of inspection is made from within touching 
distance unless otherwise specified. A mirror may be necessary to 
ensure visual access to all surfaces in the inspection area. This 
level of inspection is made under normally available lighting 
conditions such as daylight, hangar lighting, flashlight, or 
droplight and may require removal or opening of access panels or 
doors. Stands, ladders, or platforms may be required to gain 
proximity to the area being checked.''

    (1) If an initial general visual inspection is accomplished, and 
no crack is found, perform a dye penetrant inspection of the rudder 
pedal bracket assembly within 180 days after the general visual 
inspection, and thereafter accomplish dye penetrant inspections at 
intervals not to exceed 12 months or 2,500 landings, whichever 
occurs earlier. For airplane categories 3 and 4, repeat at this 
interval until the inspection required by paragraph (k) of this AD 
is accomplished.
    (2) If an initial dye penetrant inspection is accomplished, and 
no crack is found, accomplish repetitive dye penetrant inspections 
at intervals not to exceed 12 months or 2,500 landings, whichever 
occurs earlier. For airplane categories 3 and 4, repeat at this 
interval until the inspection required by paragraph (k) of this AD 
is accomplished.
    (3) If an initial special detailed inspection is accomplished 
after the effective date of this AD, and no crack is found, repeat 
the

[[Page 6581]]

inspection in accordance with paragraph (k) of this AD.

Corrective Action

    (h) Except as provided by paragraph (l) of this AD: If any crack 
is detected during any inspection required by paragraph (g) or (j) 
of this AD, before further flight, remove and replace the rudder 
pedal bracket assembly in accordance with the service bulletin. 
Prior to the accumulation of 40,000 total landings after replacement 
with a part that has the same number as the part inspected, resume 
the repetitive inspections in accordance with paragraph (g) or (k) 
of this AD, as applicable. Doing the action required by paragraph 
(l) of this AD terminates the requirements of this paragraph for 
airplane category 4.

Terminating Action for Certain Airplanes

    (i) For airplane categories 3 and 4: Do the actions in 
paragraphs (i)(1) and (i)(2) of this AD in accordance with the 
Accomplishment Instructions of the applicable service bulletin 
specified in Table 2 of this AD.
    (1) Before the accumulation of 75,000 total landings on the 
captain's rudder pedal bracket assembly, P/N 5616067-501, or within 
60 months after May 16, 2006, whichever occurs later: Remove the 
rudder pedal bracket assembly and replace it with new, improved P/N 
5962903-501. Accomplishment of the replacement terminates the 
repetitive inspections of the captain's rudder pedal bracket 
assembly required by paragraphs (g), (h), (j), (k), and (l) of this 
AD.
    (2) Before the accumulation of 75,000 total landings on the 
first officer's rudder pedal bracket assembly, P/N 5616068-501, or 
within 60 months after May 16, 2006, whichever occurs later: Remove 
the rudder pedal bracket assembly and replace it with new, improved 
P/N 5962904-501. Accomplishment of the replacement terminates the 
repetitive inspections of the first officer's rudder pedal bracket 
assembly required by paragraphs (g), (h), (j), (k), and (l) of this 
AD.

New Requirements of This AD

Revised Initial Inspection at Reduced Threshold for Certain Airplanes

    (j) For airplane categories 2 and 4, at the applicable time 
specified in paragraph (j)(1), (j)(2) or (j)(3) of this AD: Do a 
general visual and penetrant inspection (for airplane category 2), 
and a special detailed inspection (for airplane category 4), as 
applicable, to detect cracking of the captain's and first officer's 
rudder pedal bracket, part numbers (P/N) 5616067 and 5616068, 
respectively, in accordance with the applicable service bulletin 
specified in Table 2 of this AD. Procedures for the dye penetrant 
inspection for airplane category 2 are contained only in the 
Accomplishment Instructions of McDonnell Douglas DC-8 Alert Service 
Bulletin A27-273, Revision 1, dated May 16, 1989. Procedures for the 
special detailed inspection are contained in Boeing Alert Service 
Bulletin DC9-27A307, Revision 7, dated August 29, 2006. Doing the 
applicable inspection required by this paragraph terminates the 
inspection requirements of paragraphs (g) and (h) of this AD for 
airplane category 4.
    (1) For category 2 airplanes: Before the accumulation of 40,000 
total landings on the installed part, or within 30 days after the 
effective date of this AD, whichever occurs later.
    (2) For category 4 airplanes that have accumulated fewer than 
25,000 total landings as of the effective date of this AD: Before 
the accumulation of 25,000 total landings, or within 3,000 landings 
after the effective date of this AD, whichever occurs later.
    (3) For category 4 airplanes that have accumulated 25,000 or 
more total landings as of the effective date of this AD, do the next 
inspection at the applicable time in paragraph (j)(3)(i) or 
(j)(3)(ii) of this AD.
    (i) For category 4 airplanes on which the corrective action 
specified in paragraph (h) of this AD has not been accomplished, do 
the inspection within 3,000 landings after the effective date of 
this AD.
    (ii) For category 4 airplanes on which the corrective action 
required by paragraph (h) of this AD has been accomplished, do the 
inspection at the earlier of the following: The next repetitive 
interval required by paragraph (h) of this AD; 40,000 total landings 
after doing the corrective action required by paragraph (h) of this 
AD; or 3,000 landings after the effective date of this AD.

Repetitive Inspections at Revised Interval for Certain Airplanes

    (k) For airplane categories 3 and 4: Repeat the special detailed 
inspection required by paragraph (g) or (j) of this AD thereafter at 
intervals not to exceed 3,000 landings. Doing the first repetitive 
inspection required by this paragraph terminates the repetitive 
inspection requirements of paragraph (g) of this AD for airplane 
categories 3 and 4.

Corrective Action Including Reduced Inspection Threshold for Certain 
Airplanes

    (l) For airplane category 4: If any crack is detected during any 
inspection required by paragraph (g), (j), or (k) of this AD: Before 
further flight, remove and replace the rudder pedal bracket assembly 
with a part that has the same part number as the one inspected, in 
accordance with the applicable service bulletin specified in Table 2 
of this AD. Before the accumulation of 25,000 total landings after 
replacement, resume the repetitive inspections in accordance with 
paragraph (k) of this AD. Doing the action in this paragraph 
terminates the requirements of paragraph (h) of this AD for airplane 
category 4.

Alternative Methods of Compliance (AMOCs)

     (m)(1) The Manager, Los Angeles Aircraft Certification Office, 
Transport Airplane Directorate, FAA, has the authority to approve 
AMOCs for this AD, if requested in accordance with the procedures 
found in 14 CFR 39.19.
    (2) To request a different method of compliance or a different 
compliance time for this AD, follow the procedures in 14 CFR 39.19. 
Before using any approved AMOC on any airplane to which the AMOC 
applies, notify your appropriate principal inspector (PI) in the FAA 
Flight Standards District Office (FSDO), or lacking a PI, your local 
FSDO.
    (3) AMOCs, approved previously in accordance with AD 2006-07-25, 
amendment 39-14552; and AD 89-14-02, amendment 39-6245; are approved 
as AMOCs for the corresponding requirements of this AD.

Material Incorporated by Reference

    (n) You must use the service information listed in Table 3 of 
this AD to perform the actions that are required by this AD, unless 
the AD specifies otherwise.

             Table 3.--All Material Incorporated by Reference
------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                  Revision
        Service Bulletin           level                 Date
------------------------------------------------------------------------
 McDonnell Douglas DC-8 Alert             1  May 16, 1989.
 Service Bulletin A27-273.
 McDonnell Douglas DC-8 Alert             5  February 18, 1993.
 Service Bulletin A27-273.
 McDonnell Douglas DC-9 Alert             1  May 16, 1989.
 Service Bulletin A27-307.
 Boeing Alert Service bulletin            7  August 29, 2006.
 DC9-27A307.
------------------------------------------------------------------------

    (1) The Director of the Federal Register approved the 
incorporation by reference of McDonnell Douglas DC-8 Alert Service 
Bulletin A27-273, Revision 5, dated February 18, 1993; and Boeing 
Alert Service Bulletin DC9-27A307, Revision 7, dated August 29, 
2006; in accordance with 5 U.S.C. 552(a) and 1 CFR part 51.
    (2) On May 16, 2006 (71 FR 18201, April 11, 2006), the Director 
of the Federal Register approved the incorporation by reference of 
McDonnell Douglas DC-8 Alert Service Bulletin A27-273, Revision 1, 
dated May 16, 1989; and McDonnell Douglas DC-9 Alert Service 
Bulletin A27-307, Revision 1, dated May 16, 1989.
    (3) Contact Boeing Commercial Airplanes, Long Beach Division, 
3855 Lakewood Boulevard, Long Beach, California 90846, Attention: 
Data and Service Management, Dept. C1-L5A (D800-0024), for a copy of 
this service information. You may review copies at the FAA, 
Transport Airplane Directorate, 1601 Lind Avenue SW., Renton, 
Washington;

[[Page 6582]]

or 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 24, 2008.
Ali Bahrami,
Manager, Transport Airplane Directorate, Aircraft Certification 
Service.
 [FR Doc. E8-1813 Filed 2-4-08; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE 4910-13-P


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