Published 2023-08-01 · Federal Register document R1-2023-15305
Airworthiness Directives; The Boeing Company Airplanes
Publication summary
The FAA is adopting a new airworthiness directive (AD) for all The Boeing Company Model 767 airplanes. This AD was prompted by reports of inoperative manual and alternate horizontal stabilizer trim switches. This AD requires repetitive inspections for immersion of each limit switch and position transmitter module (LSPTM) and of the LSPTM electrical wiring, repetitive inspections for blockage of the drain holes and cleaning of each drain hole, repetitive inspections for loose or cracked leveling compound, and applicable on-condition actions. For certain airplanes, this AD also requires installing two new drain holes, performing repetitive inspections for blockage of the drain holes and cleaning each drain hole, and applicable on-condition actions. The FAA is issuing this AD to address the unsafe condition on these products.
Why this record is shown
Source: Federal Register annual FAA metadata. Acquired 2026-09-03T22:24:14.395624+00:00. The title, summary and date are source facts.
- Source revision
- federal_register_ad_metadata_2023-81e907e5105d0f2c
- Source row
- results[219]
- Raw source SHA-256
- 81e907e5105d0f2c522e15b6fa8c7277117367b7f70b363862619549836b75e8
Final-rule publication
Recorded publication clauses
- AD identifier printed in this edition
- 2023-13-09
- Effective date printed in this edition
- 2023-08-24
Read 11 complete recorded clauses
Effective Date
(a) Effective Date
This airworthiness directive (AD) is effective August 24, 2023.
Exact source excerpt. Text positions 22182–22271, end exclusive, in the original decoded publication. SHA-256: 6aa4cd5b16472f695d1d28a75db644c47ffa9d4ec8e438c75246b5befbc34b67
Affected ADs
(b) Affected ADs
None.
[[Page 50018]]
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Applicability wording · Applicability
(c) Applicability
This AD applies to all The Boeing Company Model 767-200, -300, -
300F, -400ER, and -2C series airplanes, certificated in any
category.
Exact source excerpt. Text positions 22316–22476, end exclusive, in the original decoded publication. SHA-256: 8c8811e193ebf81afdae3f159906806a33321e44f47558eaacd9f95ab45dc6eb
Subject
(d) Subject
Air Transport Association (ATA) of America Code 27, Flight
controls;
Exact source excerpt. Text positions 22476–22564, end exclusive, in the original decoded publication. SHA-256: 026f46b1aec3257fee0a086452dd4a6ae671f908fd8b384a28e332a7681ac99e
Unsafe Condition
(e) Unsafe Condition
This AD was prompted by reports of inoperative manual and
alternate horizontal stabilizer trim switches; an investigation
found that certain drain holes were blocked, causing water and ice
to collect and subsequently cover the limit switch and position
transmitter modules (LSPTMs), which affected their function. The FAA
is issuing this AD to address collected water or ice that could
damage the LSPTMs and cause stabilizer trim position sensors to
generate corrupt or erroneous signals to the flight crew. This
condition, if not addressed, could result in misleading or confusing
flight deck indications, a high speed overrun during takeoff, or a
low altitude stall immediately after takeoff.
Exact source excerpt. Text positions 22564–23296, end exclusive, in the original decoded publication. SHA-256: 4d9633bac052ecef8a0f95ea928f05aac6556e35d3174a3a8a6201134a916e2b
Compliance
(f) Compliance
Comply with this AD within the compliance times specified,
unless already done.
Exact source excerpt. Text positions 23296–23398, end exclusive, in the original decoded publication. SHA-256: 00fbfa31932483f627d0ce0a11cbd2e35e15d9231842b91ac85623ce533912d3
Required Actions
(g) Required Actions
(1) For all Model 767-200, -300, -300F, and -400ER airplanes:
Except as specified by paragraph (h) of this AD, at the applicable
times specified in the ``Compliance'' paragraph of Boeing Alert
Requirements Bulletin 767-27A0240 RB, dated January 19, 2021, do all
applicable actions identified in, and in accordance with, the
Accomplishment Instructions of Boeing Alert Requirements Bulletin
767-27A0240 RB, dated January 19, 2021.
Note 1 to paragraph (g)(1): Guidance for accomplishing the
actions required by this AD can be found in Boeing Alert Service
Bulletin 767-27A0240, dated January 19, 2021, which is referred to
in Boeing Alert Requirements Bulletin 767-27A0240 RB, dated January
19, 2021.
(2) For Model 767-200, -300, -300F, and -400ER airplanes, as
identified in Boeing Alert Requirements Bulletin 767-27A0243 RB,
dated May 28, 2021: Except as specified by paragraph (h) of this AD,
at the applicable times specified in the ``Compliance'' paragraph of
Boeing Alert Requirements Bulletin 767-27A0243 RB, dated May 28,
2021, do all applicable actions identified in, and in accordance
with, the Accomplishment Instructions of Boeing Alert Requirements
Bulletin 767-27A0243 RB, dated May 28, 2021. Accomplishing the
installation of two new drain holes required by this paragraph
terminates the repetitive inspections of the drain holes required by
paragraph (g)(1) of this AD.
Note 2 to paragraph (g)(2): Guidance for accomplishing the
actions required by this AD can be found in Boeing Alert Service
Bulletin 767-27A0243, dated May 28, 2021, which is referred to in
Boeing Alert Requirements Bulletin 767-27A0243 RB, dated May 28,
2021.
(3) For Model 767-2C airplanes: Within 90 days after the
effective date of this AD, inspect the LSPTMs, LSPTM electrical
wiring, drain holes, and leveling compound; install two new drain
holes as applicable; and do applicable on-condition actions in
accordance with a method approved by the Manager, AIR-520 Continued
Operational Safety Branch, FAA.
Exact source excerpt. Text positions 23398–25469, end exclusive, in the original decoded publication. SHA-256: dba99e521c4d91dc8727e4894c4af369bda4b4d3f0fd3f1026f77646963e93b0
Exceptions to Service Information Specifications
(h) Exceptions to Service Information Specifications
(1) Where Boeing Alert Requirements Bulletin 767-27A0243 RB,
dated May 28, 2021, uses the phrase ``the original issue date of the
Requirements Bulletin 767-27A0243 RB,'' this AD requires using ``the
effective date of this AD.''
(2) Where Boeing Alert Requirements Bulletin 767-27A0240 RB,
dated January 19, 2021, uses the phrase ``the original issue date of
the Requirements Bulletin 767-27A0240 RB,'' this AD requires using
``the effective date of this AD.''
(3) Where Boeing Alert Requirements Bulletin 767-27A0243 RB,
dated May 28, 2021, specifies a compliance time for Action 1
(accomplishment of Boeing Alert Requirements Bulletin 767-27A0240
RB, dated January 19, 2021), for this AD the compliance times for
accomplishing the actions in Boeing Alert Requirements Bulletin 767-
27A0240 RB, dated January 19, 2021, are as specified in paragraph
(g)(1) of this AD.
(4) Where the ``Repeat Interval (Not to Exceed)'' column of the
Compliance tables in Boeing Alert Requirements Bulletin 767-27A0240
RB, dated January 19, 2021, specifies ``90 days,'' this AD requires
using ``150 days.''
Exact source excerpt. Text positions 25469–26642, end exclusive, in the original decoded publication. SHA-256: c19deeb6bd0097774a9756981dbf523757b436a2621daa8cfb579725496c12e7
Alternative Methods of Compliance (AMOCs)
(i) Alternative Methods of Compliance (AMOCs)
(1) The Manager, AIR-520 Continued Operational Safety Branch,
FAA, has the authority to approve AMOCs for this AD, if requested
using the procedures found in 14 CFR 39.19. In accordance with 14
CFR 39.19, send your request to your principal inspector or
responsible Flight Standards Office, as appropriate. If sending
information directly to the manager of the certification office,
send it to the attention of the person identified in paragraph
(j)(1) of this AD. Information may be emailed to: [email protected].
(2) Before using any approved AMOC, notify your appropriate
principal inspector, or lacking a principal inspector, the manager
of the responsible Flight Standards Office.
(3) An AMOC that provides an acceptable level of safety may be
used for any repair, modification, or alteration required by this AD
if it is approved by The Boeing Company Organization Designation
Authorization (ODA) that has been authorized by the Manager, AIR-520
Continued Operational Safety Branch, FAA, to make those findings. To
be approved, the repair method, modification deviation, or
alteration deviation must meet the certification basis of the
airplane, and the approval must specifically refer to this AD.
Exact source excerpt. Text positions 26642–27923, end exclusive, in the original decoded publication. SHA-256: 804c07ef6baad40a7fd5b4a5fba14df37969c9ef5c03b15daf7259f459d2bfac
Additional Information
(j) Additional Information
(1) For more information about this AD, contact Doug Tsuji,
Aviation Safety Engineer, FAA, 2200 South 216th St., Des Moines, WA
98198; phone: 206-231-3548; email: [email protected].
(2) Service information identified in this AD that is not
incorporated by reference is available at the addresses specified in
paragraphs (k)(3) and (4) of this AD.
Exact source excerpt. Text positions 27923–28311, end exclusive, in the original decoded publication. SHA-256: 2f5ce6e37fef6d19024227eaf4c77d52846666557b7abdc230b82be058955792
Material Incorporated by Reference
(k) Material Incorporated by Reference
(1) The Director of the Federal Register approved the
incorporation by reference (IBR) of the service information listed
in this paragraph under 5 U.S.C. 552(a) and 1 CFR part 51.
(2) You must use this service information as applicable to do
the actions required by this AD, unless the AD specifies otherwise.
(i) Boeing Alert Requirements Bulletin 767-27A0240 RB, dated
January 19, 2021.
(ii) Boeing Alert Requirements Bulletin 767-27A0243 RB, dated
May 28, 2021.
(3) For service information identified in this AD, contact
Boeing Commercial Airplanes, Attention: Contractual & Data Services
(C&DS), 2600 Westminster Blvd., MC 110-SK57, Seal Beach, CA 90740-
5600; telephone 562-797-1717; website myboeingfleet.com.
(4) You may view this service information at the FAA,
Airworthiness Products Section, Operational Safety Branch, 2200
South 216th St., Des Moines, WA. For information on the availability
of this material at the FAA, call 206-231-3195.
(5) You may view this service information that is incorporated
by reference at the National Archives and Records Administration
(NARA). For information on the availability of this material at
NARA, [email protected], or go to: www.archives.gov/federal-register/cfr/ibr-locations.html.
Exact source excerpt. Text positions 28311–29629, end exclusive, in the original decoded publication. SHA-256: 2ec7b2a0afc69596e0f40171007346d6cc17a1f1842426daf0bc6dab0ed1eb08
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 2023-13-09 · 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.
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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-1.2.0. Text SHA-256: 95d607c967ca44cef4cd5df29657422752f034d9b5115e29e5f1889f457489c4. Source manifest: f0447955b85bf201024507d98eb080b4ba6bba190b4c936ea15b8973153d6a01.
Official source · 2023-08-01
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 88, Number 146 (Tuesday, August 1, 2023)]
[Rules and Regulations]
[Pages 50014-50018]
From the Federal Register Online via the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]
[FR Doc No: R1-2023-15305]
-----------------------------------------------------------------------
DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION
Federal Aviation Administration
14 CFR Part 39
[Docket No. FAA-2022-0458; Project Identifier AD-2021-00633-T;
Amendment 39-22494; AD 2023-13-09]
RIN 2120-AA64
Airworthiness Directives; The Boeing Company Airplanes
AGENCY: Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), DOT.
ACTION: Final rule.
-----------------------------------------------------------------------
Editorial Note: Editorial Note: Rule document 2023-15305
originally published on pages 46673-46677 in the issue of Thursday,
July 20, 2023. In that publication, on page 46676, in the first
column, in the ``(c) Applicability'' paragraph, the text ``-300,''
should have appeared. The rule is
[[Page 50015]]
republished here corrected and in its entirety.
SUMMARY: The FAA is adopting a new airworthiness directive (AD) for all
The Boeing Company Model 767 airplanes. This AD was prompted by reports
of inoperative manual and alternate horizontal stabilizer trim
switches. This AD requires repetitive inspections for immersion of each
limit switch and position transmitter module (LSPTM) and of the LSPTM
electrical wiring, repetitive inspections for blockage of the drain
holes and cleaning of each drain hole, repetitive inspections for loose
or cracked leveling compound, and applicable on-condition actions. For
certain airplanes, this AD also requires installing two new drain
holes, performing repetitive inspections for blockage of the drain
holes and cleaning each drain hole, and applicable on-condition
actions. The FAA is issuing this AD to address the unsafe condition on
these products.
DATES: This AD is effective August 24, 2023.
The Director of the Federal Register approved the incorporation by
reference of certain publications listed in this AD as of August 24,
2023.
ADDRESSES:
AD Docket: You may examine the AD docket at regulations.gov under
Docket No. FAA-2022-0458; or in person at Docket Operations between 9
a.m. and 5 p.m., Monday through Friday, except Federal holidays. The AD
docket contains this final rule, any comments received, and other
information. The address for Docket Operations is U.S. Department of
Transportation, Docket Operations, M-30, West Building Ground Floor,
Room W12-140, 1200 New Jersey Avenue SE, Washington, DC 20590.
Material Incorporated by Reference:
<bullet> For service information identified in this final rule,
contact Boeing Commercial Airplanes, Attention: Contractual & Data
Services (C&DS), 2600 Westminster Blvd., MC 110-SK57, Seal Beach, CA
90740-5600; telephone 562-797-1717; website myboeingfleet.com.
<bullet> You may view this service information at the FAA,
Airworthiness Products Section, Operational Safety Branch, 2200 South
216th St., Des Moines, WA. For information on the availability of this
material at the FAA, call 206-231-3195. It is also available at
regulations.gov under Docket No. FAA-2022-0458.
FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Doug Tsuji, Aviation Safety Engineer,
FAA, 2200 South 216th St., Des Moines, WA 98198; phone: 206-231-3548;
email: [email protected].
SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION:
Background
The FAA issued a notice of proposed rulemaking (NPRM) to amend 14
CFR part 39 by adding an AD that would apply to all The Boeing Company
Model 767 airplanes. The NPRM published in the Federal Register on
April 25, 2022 (87 FR 24276). The NPRM was prompted by reports of
inoperative manual and alternate horizontal stabilizer trim switches,
as a result of blocked drain holes in the area aft of body station
(STA) 1725.5, which caused water to accumulate and eventually submerge
the three LSPTMs, affecting their function. In the NPRM, the FAA
proposed to require repetitive inspections for immersion of each LSPTM
and of the LSPTM electrical wiring, repetitive inspections for blockage
of the drain holes and cleaning of each drain hole, repetitive
inspections for loose or cracked leveling compound, and applicable on-
condition actions. For certain airplanes, the FAA proposed to also
require installing two new drain holes, performing repetitive
inspections for blockage of the drain holes and cleaning each drain
hole, and applicable on-condition actions. The FAA is issuing this AD
to address collected water or ice that could damage the LSPTMs and
cause stabilizer trim position sensors to generate corrupt or erroneous
signals to the flight crew. This condition, if not addressed, could
result in misleading or confusing flight deck indications, a high speed
overrun during takeoff, or a low altitude stall immediately after
takeoff.
Discussion of Final Airworthiness Directive
Comments
The FAA received comments from The Air Line Pilots Association,
International (ALPA), United Airlines, and an individual who supported
the NPRM without change.
The FAA received additional comments from four commenters,
including UPS, FedEx, Delta Air Lines (Delta), and Aviation Partners
Boeing (APB). The following presents the comments received on the NPRM
and the FAA's response to each comment.
Effect of Winglets on Accomplishment of the Proposed Actions
APB stated that the installation of winglets per Supplemental Type
Certificate (STC) ST01920SE does not affect the accomplishment of the
manufacturer's service instructions.
The FAA agrees with the commenter that STC ST01920SE does not
affect the accomplishment of the manufacturer's service instructions.
Therefore, the installation of STC ST01920SE does not affect the
ability to accomplish the actions required by this AD. The FAA has not
changed this AD in this regard.
Request To Revise Inspection Interval
FedEx requested that the repetitive interval for the inspections
specified in Boeing Alert Requirements Bulletin 767-27A0240 RB, dated
January 19, 2021, be revised from 90 days to 225 days. FedEx noted
that, in anticipation of an AD, it had begun inspecting all Model 767-
300F aircraft at 90 day intervals, but could not maintain that
schedule, and even a 120 day inspection interval was challenging to
comply with. FedEx added that, during those initial inspections, it
found only one aircraft with a clogged drain hole and no evidence of
water pooling, damaged leveling compound, or damaged LSPTMs in its
fleet. Based on those findings, FedEx stated that it had revised its
inspection intervals to 450 flight cycles (the equivalent of 225 days).
FedEx noted that if the FAA mandates a 90 day repetitive interval, it
will be forced to ground aircraft. FedEx concluded that a 225 day
inspection interval would eliminate undue burden on operators while
maintaining an acceptable level of safety.
The FAA partially agrees with the commenter's request. Based on the
FAA's risk assessment, the FAA has determined that a 225 day interval,
which equates to approximately 3 inspections during the 24 month
interval before the new drain holes must be added, is not adequate to
address the unsafe condition because the inspections would not be
frequent enough. However, the FAA has determined that extending the
interval to 150 days, which equates to approximately 5 inspections
during the 24 month interval before the new drain holes must be added,
provides an adequate level of safety. The FAA has added paragraph
(h)(4) of this AD to specify the 150 day inspection interval.
Request To Clarify Exception Language
Delta requested that paragraph (h)(3) of the proposed AD be revised
to clarify the intent. Delta claimed the wording is very confusing and
initially lead it to believe that both service bulletins, Boeing Alert
Requirements Bulletin 767-27A0243 RB, dated May 28, 2021, and Boeing
Alert Requirements Bulletin 767-27A0240 RB, dated January 19, 2021,
must be accomplished in 90 days. Delta added that it understands the
intent of paragraph (h)(3) of the proposed AD is to address a
discrepancy where Boeing Alert Requirements
[[Page 50016]]
Bulletin 767-27A0243 RB, dated May 28, 2021, Action 1, gives a
compliance time of 24 months to do Boeing Alert Requirements Bulletin
767-27A0240 RB, dated January 19, 2021, which in turn has an initial
compliance time of 90 days. Delta suggested that paragraph (h)(3) could
be clarified to specify the compliance times for each referenced
bulletin.
The FAA agrees with the commenter's request. The FAA has revised
paragraph (h)(3) of this AD to clarify that although Action 1 in Boeing
Alert Requirements Bulletin 767-27A0243 RB, dated May 28, 2021,
specifies to accomplish the actions in Boeing Alert Requirements
Bulletin 767-27A0240 RB, dated January 19, 2021, within 24 months after
the date of issuance of the original airworthiness certificate or
original export certificate of airworthiness, or within 24 months after
the original issue date of Boeing Alert Requirements Bulletin 767-
27A0243 RB, whichever occurs later; Boeing Alert Requirements Bulletin
767-27A0240 RB, dated January 19, 2021, contains the applicable
compliance times for accomplishing the actions specified in Action1.
The applicable compliance times for all other actions in Boeing Alert
Requirements Bulletin 767-27A0243 RB, dated May 28, 2021, is at the
times specified in Boeing Alert Requirements Bulletin 767-27A0243 RB,
dated May 28, 2021, except as specified in paragraph (h)(1) of this AD.
Request To Delay AD Issuance Until Parts Are Available
FedEx requested that the FAA delay issuance of a final rule until
parts are available from Boeing. FedEx noted that it is planning to
modify its aircraft as soon as possible, which would allow it to stop
the repetitive inspections. However, FedEx stated that it has been
trying unsuccessfully to order the necessary parts from Boeing since
August, 2021. FedEx added that it was told the delivery schedule was
``to be determined,'' causing it to miss many scheduled aircraft
checks.
The FAA disagrees with the commenter's request. The FAA notes that
this AD requires repetitive inspections until the terminating
modification is accomplished, so delaying issuance of this AD would
also delay those vital inspections. Additionally, the FAA has confirmed
with the manufacturer that adequate parts will be available to comply
with this AD in the required compliance time. This AD has not been
changed regarding this issue.
Request To Revise Certain Notes
FedEx requested that the FAA revise Note 1 to paragraph (g)(1) and
Note 2 to paragraph (g)(2). FedEx requested revised wording to ensure
that the new AD would not require the service information referenced in
those notes.
The FAA agrees to clarify. The wording in the notes is intended to
inform operators that the service information specified contains
additional guidance for accomplishing the required actions. The service
information referenced in the notes is not mandated by this AD, and
operators are not required to use it. This AD has not been changed
regarding this issue.
Request To Allow Skipping Close Access in Certain Situations
Delta requested that the proposed AD be revised to allow operators
to skip certain close access steps. Delta stated that certain
conditions in Boeing Alert Requirements Bulletin 767-27A0240 RB, dated
January 19, 2021; and Boeing Alert Requirements Bulletin 767-27A0243
RB, dated May 28, 2021, include reference to close access or open
access steps. Delta added that, based on how an operator would perform
the steps, it doesn't make sense to close access when finishing the
actions in one table, only to have to open access to begin work on the
actions in the next table. Delta noted that some close access steps in
Boeing Alert Requirements Bulletin 767-27A0240 RB, dated January 19,
2021, include a flagnote allowing operators to skip the close access
steps if additional work is required. Delta concluded that the flagnote
should have been included for close access steps throughout Boeing
Alert Requirements Bulletin 767-27A0240 RB, dated January 19, 2021; and
Boeing Alert Requirements Bulletin 767-27A0243 RB, dated May 28, 2021.
The FAA agrees to clarify. The close access steps are not listed in
the ``Action'' or ``Method of Compliance'' columns in the referenced
service information. Instead, the close access steps are in a ``Refer
to'' column, which is for reference only; the procedures within that
column are not required by this AD and are for guidance only.
Therefore, operators may deviate from those steps using accepted
procedures. Acceptable deviations include not performing close access
steps until all applicable actions are completed. This AD has not been
changed regarding this issue.
Request To Not Require Certain Actions
UPS requested that the proposed AD be revised to not require the
actions specified in paragraph (g)(2) of the proposed AD. UPS stated
that it understands that accomplishment of the repetitive inspections
at the shorter interval specified in Boeing Alert Requirements Bulletin
767-27A0240 RB, dated January 19, 2021, is an acceptable means to
detect and prevent the accumulation of water and ice in the area of the
LSPTMs. UPS suggested that these frequent inspections provide an
equivalent level of safety as adding new drain holes and inspections
with a longer inspection interval. Therefore, UPS requested that the
actions in paragraph (g)(2) of the proposed AD be made optional and
terminate the actions in paragraph (g)(1) of the proposed AD if
accomplished.
The FAA disagrees with the commenter's request. The addition of the
two drain holes will create a configuration where multiple unique
blockage events must occur before the accumulation of water or ice can
happen. The FAA has therefore determined that the addition of drain
holes, combined with the repetitive inspections, cleaning, and on-
condition actions, is the best method to address the unsafe condition.
However, under the provisions specified in paragraph (i) of this AD,
the FAA will consider requests for alternative methods of compliance
(AMOCs). This AD has not been changed regarding this issue.
Conclusion
The FAA reviewed the relevant data, considered any comments
received, and determined that air safety requires adopting this AD as
proposed. Accordingly, the FAA is issuing this AD to address the unsafe
condition on these products. Except for minor editorial changes, and
any other changes described previously, this AD is adopted as proposed
in the NPRM. None of the changes will increase the economic burden on
any operator.
Related Service Information Under 1 CFR Part 51
The FAA reviewed Boeing Alert Requirements Bulletin 767-27A0240 RB,
dated January 19, 2021, which specifies procedures for repetitive
general visual inspections (GVIs) for immersion in water or ice of each
LSPTM and of the LSPTM electrical wiring, repetitive GVIs for blockage
of the three drain holes and cleaning of each drain hole, repetitive
GVIs for loose or cracked leveling compound, and applicable on-
condition actions. On-condition actions include removing any water or
ice, doing a detailed inspection for damage (corrosion or water damage)
of any immersed LSPTM
[[Page 50017]]
or LSPTM electrical wiring, installing a serviceable LSPTM, repairing
or replacing any damaged LSPTM electrical wiring, clearing any drain
hole blockages, and repairing any loose or cracked leveling compound.
The FAA also reviewed Boeing Alert Requirements Bulletin 767-
27A0243 RB, dated May 28, 2021. This service information specifies
procedures for installing two new drain holes, performing repetitive
GVIs for blockage of the five drain holes and cleaning each drain hole,
and applicable on-condition actions. On-condition actions include
clearing any drain hole blockages.
This service information is reasonably available because the
interested parties have access to it through their normal course of
business or by the means identified in ADDRESSES.
Costs of Compliance
The FAA estimates that this AD affects 613 airplanes of U.S.
registry. The FAA estimates the following costs to comply with this AD:
Estimated Costs
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Action Labor cost Parts cost Cost per product Cost on U.S. operators
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Drill drain holes............ 5 work-hours x $2,770 $3,195.................. Up to $1,958,535.
$85 per hour =
$425.
Repetitive GVI and cleaning 2 work-hours x 0 $170 per inspection Up to $104,210 per
of 5 drain holes. $85 per hour = cycle. inspection cycle.
$170 per
inspection
cycle.
Repetitive GVI of LSPTM...... 1 work-hour x 0 $85 per inspection cycle $52,105 per inspection
$85 per hour = cycle.
$85 per
inspection
cycle.
Repetitive GVI of LSPTM 1 work-hour x 0 $85 per inspection cycle $52,105 per inspection
electrical wiring. $85 per hour = cycle.
$85 per
inspection
cycle.
Repetitive GVI and cleaning 1 work-hour x 0 $85 per inspection cycle $52,105 per inspection
of 3 drain holes. $85 per hour = cycle.
$85 per
inspection
cycle.
Repetitive GVI of leveling 1 work-hour x 0 $85 per inspection cycle $52,105 per inspection
compound. $85 per hour = cycle.
$85 per
inspection
cycle.
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
The FAA estimates the following costs to do any necessary
inspections that would be required based on the results of the
inspection. The agency has no way of determining the number of aircraft
that might need these inspections:
On-Condition Costs
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Cost per
Action Labor cost Parts cost product
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Detailed inspection of LSPTM or LSPTM 1 work-hour x $85 per hour = $85 $0 $85
electrical wiring.
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
The FAA has received no definitive data on which to base the cost
estimates for the other on-condition actions specified in this AD.
Authority for This Rulemaking
Title 49 of the United States Code specifies the FAA's authority to
issue rules on aviation safety. Subtitle I, section 106, describes the
authority of the FAA Administrator. Subtitle VII: Aviation Programs,
describes in more detail the scope of the Agency's authority.
The FAA is issuing this rulemaking under the authority described in
Subtitle VII, Part A, Subpart III, Section 44701: General requirements.
Under that section, Congress charges the FAA with promoting safe flight
of civil aircraft in air commerce by prescribing regulations for
practices, methods, and procedures the Administrator finds necessary
for safety in air commerce. This regulation is within the scope of that
authority because it addresses an unsafe condition that is likely to
exist or develop on products identified in this rulemaking action.
Regulatory Findings
This AD will not have federalism implications under Executive Order
13132. This AD will not have a substantial direct effect on the States,
on the relationship between the national government and the States, or
on the distribution of power and responsibilities among the various
levels of government.
For the reasons discussed above, I certify that this AD:
(1) Is not a ``significant regulatory action'' under Executive
Order 12866,
(2) Will not affect intrastate aviation in Alaska, and
(3) Will not have a significant economic impact, positive or
negative, on a substantial number of small entities under the criteria
of the Regulatory Flexibility Act.
List of Subjects in 14 CFR Part 39
Air transportation, Aircraft, Aviation safety, Incorporation by
reference, Safety.
The Amendment
Accordingly, under the authority delegated to me by the
Administrator, the FAA amends 14 CFR part 39 as follows:
PART 39--AIRWORTHINESS DIRECTIVES
0
1. The authority citation for part 39 continues to read as follows:
Authority: 49 U.S.C. 106(g), 40113, 44701.
Sec. 39.13 [Amended]
0
2. The FAA amends Sec. 39.13 by adding the following new airworthiness
directive:
2023-13-09 The Boeing Company: Amendment 39-22494; Docket No. FAA-
2022-0458; Project Identifier AD-2021-00633-T.
(a) Effective Date
This airworthiness directive (AD) is effective August 24, 2023.
(b) Affected ADs
None.
[[Page 50018]]
(c) Applicability
This AD applies to all The Boeing Company Model 767-200, -300, -
300F, -400ER, and -2C series airplanes, certificated in any
category.
(d) Subject
Air Transport Association (ATA) of America Code 27, Flight
controls;
(e) Unsafe Condition
This AD was prompted by reports of inoperative manual and
alternate horizontal stabilizer trim switches; an investigation
found that certain drain holes were blocked, causing water and ice
to collect and subsequently cover the limit switch and position
transmitter modules (LSPTMs), which affected their function. The FAA
is issuing this AD to address collected water or ice that could
damage the LSPTMs and cause stabilizer trim position sensors to
generate corrupt or erroneous signals to the flight crew. This
condition, if not addressed, could result in misleading or confusing
flight deck indications, a high speed overrun during takeoff, or a
low altitude stall immediately after takeoff.
(f) Compliance
Comply with this AD within the compliance times specified,
unless already done.
(g) Required Actions
(1) For all Model 767-200, -300, -300F, and -400ER airplanes:
Except as specified by paragraph (h) of this AD, at the applicable
times specified in the ``Compliance'' paragraph of Boeing Alert
Requirements Bulletin 767-27A0240 RB, dated January 19, 2021, do all
applicable actions identified in, and in accordance with, the
Accomplishment Instructions of Boeing Alert Requirements Bulletin
767-27A0240 RB, dated January 19, 2021.
Note 1 to paragraph (g)(1): Guidance for accomplishing the
actions required by this AD can be found in Boeing Alert Service
Bulletin 767-27A0240, dated January 19, 2021, which is referred to
in Boeing Alert Requirements Bulletin 767-27A0240 RB, dated January
19, 2021.
(2) For Model 767-200, -300, -300F, and -400ER airplanes, as
identified in Boeing Alert Requirements Bulletin 767-27A0243 RB,
dated May 28, 2021: Except as specified by paragraph (h) of this AD,
at the applicable times specified in the ``Compliance'' paragraph of
Boeing Alert Requirements Bulletin 767-27A0243 RB, dated May 28,
2021, do all applicable actions identified in, and in accordance
with, the Accomplishment Instructions of Boeing Alert Requirements
Bulletin 767-27A0243 RB, dated May 28, 2021. Accomplishing the
installation of two new drain holes required by this paragraph
terminates the repetitive inspections of the drain holes required by
paragraph (g)(1) of this AD.
Note 2 to paragraph (g)(2): Guidance for accomplishing the
actions required by this AD can be found in Boeing Alert Service
Bulletin 767-27A0243, dated May 28, 2021, which is referred to in
Boeing Alert Requirements Bulletin 767-27A0243 RB, dated May 28,
2021.
(3) For Model 767-2C airplanes: Within 90 days after the
effective date of this AD, inspect the LSPTMs, LSPTM electrical
wiring, drain holes, and leveling compound; install two new drain
holes as applicable; and do applicable on-condition actions in
accordance with a method approved by the Manager, AIR-520 Continued
Operational Safety Branch, FAA.
(h) Exceptions to Service Information Specifications
(1) Where Boeing Alert Requirements Bulletin 767-27A0243 RB,
dated May 28, 2021, uses the phrase ``the original issue date of the
Requirements Bulletin 767-27A0243 RB,'' this AD requires using ``the
effective date of this AD.''
(2) Where Boeing Alert Requirements Bulletin 767-27A0240 RB,
dated January 19, 2021, uses the phrase ``the original issue date of
the Requirements Bulletin 767-27A0240 RB,'' this AD requires using
``the effective date of this AD.''
(3) Where Boeing Alert Requirements Bulletin 767-27A0243 RB,
dated May 28, 2021, specifies a compliance time for Action 1
(accomplishment of Boeing Alert Requirements Bulletin 767-27A0240
RB, dated January 19, 2021), for this AD the compliance times for
accomplishing the actions in Boeing Alert Requirements Bulletin 767-
27A0240 RB, dated January 19, 2021, are as specified in paragraph
(g)(1) of this AD.
(4) Where the ``Repeat Interval (Not to Exceed)'' column of the
Compliance tables in Boeing Alert Requirements Bulletin 767-27A0240
RB, dated January 19, 2021, specifies ``90 days,'' this AD requires
using ``150 days.''
(i) Alternative Methods of Compliance (AMOCs)
(1) The Manager, AIR-520 Continued Operational Safety Branch,
FAA, has the authority to approve AMOCs for this AD, if requested
using the procedures found in 14 CFR 39.19. In accordance with 14
CFR 39.19, send your request to your principal inspector or
responsible Flight Standards Office, as appropriate. If sending
information directly to the manager of the certification office,
send it to the attention of the person identified in paragraph
(j)(1) of this AD. Information may be emailed to: [email protected].
(2) Before using any approved AMOC, notify your appropriate
principal inspector, or lacking a principal inspector, the manager
of the responsible Flight Standards Office.
(3) An AMOC that provides an acceptable level of safety may be
used for any repair, modification, or alteration required by this AD
if it is approved by The Boeing Company Organization Designation
Authorization (ODA) that has been authorized by the Manager, AIR-520
Continued Operational Safety Branch, FAA, to make those findings. To
be approved, the repair method, modification deviation, or
alteration deviation must meet the certification basis of the
airplane, and the approval must specifically refer to this AD.
(j) Additional Information
(1) For more information about this AD, contact Doug Tsuji,
Aviation Safety Engineer, FAA, 2200 South 216th St., Des Moines, WA
98198; phone: 206-231-3548; email: [email protected].
(2) Service information identified in this AD that is not
incorporated by reference is available at the addresses specified in
paragraphs (k)(3) and (4) of this AD.
(k) Material Incorporated by Reference
(1) The Director of the Federal Register approved the
incorporation by reference (IBR) of the service information listed
in this paragraph under 5 U.S.C. 552(a) and 1 CFR part 51.
(2) You must use this service information as applicable to do
the actions required by this AD, unless the AD specifies otherwise.
(i) Boeing Alert Requirements Bulletin 767-27A0240 RB, dated
January 19, 2021.
(ii) Boeing Alert Requirements Bulletin 767-27A0243 RB, dated
May 28, 2021.
(3) For service information identified in this AD, contact
Boeing Commercial Airplanes, Attention: Contractual & Data Services
(C&DS), 2600 Westminster Blvd., MC 110-SK57, Seal Beach, CA 90740-
5600; telephone 562-797-1717; website myboeingfleet.com.
(4) You may view this service information at the FAA,
Airworthiness Products Section, Operational Safety Branch, 2200
South 216th St., Des Moines, WA. For information on the availability
of this material at the FAA, call 206-231-3195.
(5) You may view this service information that is incorporated
by reference at the National Archives and Records Administration
(NARA). For information on the availability of this material at
NARA, [email protected], or go to: www.archives.gov/federal-register/cfr/ibr-locations.html.
Issued on June 28, 2023.
Michael Linegang,
Acting Director, Compliance & Airworthiness Division, Aircraft
Certification Service.
[FR Doc. R1-2023-15305 Filed 7-31-23; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE 0099-10-D
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