[Federal Register Volume 63, Number 244 (Monday, December 21, 1998)]
[Rules and Regulations]
[Pages 70319-70321]
From the Federal Register Online via the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]
[FR Doc No: 98-33540]
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DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION
Federal Aviation Administration
14 CFR Part 39
[Docket No. 98-NM-330-AD; Amendment 39-10955; AD 98-26-14]
RIN 2120-AA64
Airworthiness Directives; Bombardier Model CL-600-2B19 (Regional
Jet Series 100 and 200) Series Airplanes
AGENCY: Federal Aviation Administration, DOT.
ACTION: Final rule; request for comments.
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SUMMARY: This amendment adopts a new airworthiness directive (AD) that
is applicable to certain Bombardier Model CL-600-2B19 (Regional Jet
Series 100 and 200) series airplanes. This action requires a one-time
visual inspection to detect chafing or cracking of all electrical
wiring conduits located in the center fuel tank, and inadequate
clearance between the tube assemblies and adjacent structures; and
corrective actions, if necessary. This action also requires a
modification to reinforce the right wing crossflow shutoff valve
conduit. This amendment is prompted by issuance of mandatory continuing
airworthiness information by a foreign civil airworthiness authority.
The actions specified in this AD are intended to detect and correct
chafing or cracking of the electrical conduits in the center fuel tank
and inadequate clearance between tube assemblies and adjacent
structures, which could result in electrical arcing and consequent fire
or explosion in the center fuel tank.
DATES: Effective January 5, 1999.
The incorporation by reference of certain publications listed in
the regulations is approved by the Director of the Federal Register as
of January 5, 1999.
Comments for inclusion in the Rules Docket must be received on or
before January 20, 1999.
ADDRESSES: Submit comments in triplicate to the Federal Aviation
Administration (FAA), Transport Airplane Directorate, ANM-114,
Attention: Rules Docket No. 98-NM-330-AD, 1601 Lind Avenue, SW.,
Renton, Washington 98055-4056.
The service information referenced in this AD may be obtained from
Bombardier, Inc., Canadair, Aerospace Group, P.O. Box 6087, Station
Centreville, Montreal, Quebec H3C 3G9, Canada. This information may be
examined at the FAA, Transport Airplane Directorate, 1601 Lind Avenue,
SW., Renton, Washington; or at the FAA, Engine and Propeller
Directorate, New York Aircraft Certification Office, 10 Fifth Street,
Third Floor, Valley Stream, New York; or at the Office of the Federal
Register, 800 North Capitol Street, NW., suite 700, Washington, DC.
FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Luciano L. Castracane, Aerospace
Engineer, ANE-172, FAA, Engine and Propeller Directorate, New York
Aircraft Certification Office, 10 Fifth Street, Third Floor, Valley
Stream, New York 11581; telephone (516) 256-7535; fax (516) 568-2716.
SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: Transport Canada Aviation (TCA), which is
the airworthiness authority for Canada, recently notified the FAA that
an unsafe condition may exist on certain Bombardier Model CL-600-2B19
(Regional Jet Series 100 and 200) series airplanes. TCA advises that
two cases of chafing on the electrical wiring conduits of the right
wing crossflow valve in the center fuel tank have been reported.
Findings indicate that chafing of those electrical wiring conduits may
be caused by inadequate clearance between the tube assemblies and
adjacent structures. These conditions, if not corrected, could result
in electrical arcing and consequent fire or explosion in the center
fuel tank.
Explanation of Relevant Service Information
Bombardier has issued Alert Service Bulletin SB A601R-28-036,
Revision ``A,'' dated September 4, 1998, which describes procedures for
a one-time inspection to detect chafing or cracking of all electrical
wiring conduits in the center fuel tank, and inadequate clearance
between the tube assemblies and adjacent structures. The alert service
bulletin also describes procedures for corrective actions, which
include repairing or replacing any damaged conduit that is outside
specified limits with a tube assembly (as specified in the service
bulletin), and relocating and reforming the conduits to provide
adequate clearance. In addition, the alert service bulletin specifies
procedures for a modification to reinforce the crossflow shutoff valve
conduit with a bracket to ensure the continued safety of the electrical
[[Page 70320]]
conduit installation in the center fuel tank. Accomplishment of the
actions specified in the alert service bulletin is intended to
adequately address the identified unsafe condition. TCA classified this
alert service bulletin as mandatory and issued airworthiness directive
CF-98-35, dated September 15, 1998, in order to assure the continued
airworthiness of these airplanes in Canada.
FAA's Conclusions
This airplane model is manufactured in Canada and is type
certificated for operation in the United States under the provisions of
section 21.29 of the Federal Aviation Regulations (14 CFR 21.29) and
the applicable bilateral airworthiness agreement. Pursuant to this
bilateral airworthiness agreement, TCA has kept the FAA informed of the
situation described above. The FAA has examined the findings of TCA,
reviewed all available information, and determined that AD action is
necessary for products of this type design that are certificated for
operation in the United States.
Explanation of Requirements of Rule
Since an unsafe condition has been identified that is likely to
exist or develop on other airplanes of the same type design registered
in the United States, this AD is being issued to prevent electrical
arcing and consequent fire or explosion in the center fuel tank.
This AD requires a one-time visual inspection to detect chafing or
cracking of all electrical wiring conduits located in the center fuel
tank, and inadequate clearance between the tube assemblies and adjacent
structures; and corrective actions, if necessary.
This AD also requires a modification to reinforce the right wing
crossflow shutoff valve conduit by installing a bracket support kit.
The actions are required to be accomplished in accordance with the
alert service bulletin described previously, except as discussed below.
Differences Between This AD and the Relevant Service Information
Operators should note that, although the effectivity of the alert
service bulletin specifies serial numbers 7003 through 7067 inclusive,
and 7069 through 7246 inclusive, the applicability of this AD specifies
serial numbers 7003 through 7246 inclusive. (The Canadian airworthiness
directive specifies the same serial numbers as shown in the
Applicability of this AD.)
Operators also should note that, although Part A of the
Accomplishment Instructions of the alert service bulletin specifies
that the operator may accomplish inspections in accordance with either
Option 1 or Option 2, paragraph (a) of this AD requires the
accomplishment of Option 1. Option 1 specifies that corrective action
is required if any sign of damage or inadequate clearance is found,
whereas Option 2 specifies corrective action only if fuel leakage is
found. The FAA has determined that, in cases where certain known unsafe
conditions exist, and where actions to detect and correct that unsafe
condition can be readily accomplished, those actions must be required.
The FAA considers that Option 2 would not provide an adequate level of
safety for the affected fleet. [The Canadian airworthiness directive
also specifies Part A (Option 1) of the alert service bulletin.]
Determination of Rule's Effective Date
Since a situation exists that requires the immediate adoption of
this regulation, it is found that notice and opportunity for prior
public comment hereon are impracticable, and that good cause exists for
making this amendment effective in less than 30 days.
Comments Invited
Although this action is in the form of a final rule that involves
requirements affecting flight safety and, thus, was not preceded by
notice and an opportunity for public comment, comments are invited on
this rule. Interested persons are invited to comment on this rule by
submitting such written data, views, or arguments as they may desire.
Communications shall identify the Rules Docket number and be submitted
in triplicate to the address specified under the caption ADDRESSES.
All communications received on or before the closing date for
comments will be considered, and this rule may be amended in light of
the comments received. Factual information that supports the
commenter's ideas and suggestions is extremely helpful in evaluating
the effectiveness of the AD action and determining whether additional
rulemaking action would be needed.
Comments are specifically invited on the overall regulatory,
economic, environmental, and energy aspects of the rule that might
suggest a need to modify the rule. All comments submitted will be
available, both before and after the closing date for comments, in the
Rules Docket for examination by interested persons. A report that
summarizes each FAA-public contact concerned with the substance of this
AD will be filed in the Rules Docket.
Commenters wishing the FAA to acknowledge receipt of their comments
submitted in response to this rule must submit a self-addressed,
stamped postcard on which the following statement is made: ``Comments
to Docket Number 98-NM-330-AD.'' The postcard will be date stamped and
returned to the commenter.
Regulatory Impact
The regulations adopted herein will not have substantial direct
effects 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. Therefore, in
accordance with Executive Order 12612, it is determined that this final
rule does not have sufficient federalism implications to warrant the
preparation of a Federalism Assessment.
The FAA has determined that this regulation is an emergency
regulation that must be issued immediately to correct an unsafe
condition in aircraft, and that it is not a ``significant regulatory
action'' under Executive Order 12866. It has been determined further
that this action involves an emergency regulation under DOT Regulatory
Policies and Procedures (44 FR 11034, February 26, 1979). If it is
determined that this emergency regulation otherwise would be
significant under DOT Regulatory Policies and Procedures, a final
regulatory evaluation will be prepared and placed in the Rules Docket.
A copy of it, if filed, may be obtained from the Rules Docket at the
location provided under the caption ADDRESSES.
List of Subjects in 14 CFR Part 39
Air transportation, Aircraft, Aviation safety, Incorporation by
reference, Safety.
Adoption of the Amendment
Accordingly, pursuant to the authority delegated to me by the
Administrator, the Federal Aviation Administration amends part 39 of
the Federal Aviation Regulations (14 CFR part 39) as follows:
PART 39--AIRWORTHINESS DIRECTIVES
1. The authority citation for part 39 continues to read as follows:
Authority: 49 U.S.C. 106(g), 40113, 44701.
[[Page 70321]]
Sec. 39.13 [Amended]
2. Section 39.13 is amended by adding the following new
airworthiness directive:
98-26-14 BOMBARDIER, INC. (Formerly Canadair): Amendment 39-10955.
Docket 98-NM-330-AD.
Applicability: Model CL-600-2B19 (Regional Jet Series 100 and
200) series airplanes, serial numbers 7003 through 7246 inclusive;
certificated in any category.
Note 1: This AD applies to each airplane identified in the
preceding applicability provision, regardless of whether it has been
modified, altered, or repaired in the area subject to the
requirements of this AD. For airplanes that have been modified,
altered, or repaired so that the performance of the requirements of
this AD is affected, the owner/operator must request approval for an
alternative method of compliance in accordance with paragraph (c) of
this AD. The request should include an assessment of the effect of
the modification, alteration, or repair on the unsafe condition
addressed by this AD; and, if the unsafe condition has not been
eliminated, the request should include specific proposed actions to
address it.
Compliance: Required as indicated, unless accomplished
previously.
To detect and correct chafing or cracking of all electrical
wiring conduits in the center fuel tank and inadequate clearance
between tube assemblies and adjacent structures, which could result
in electrical arcing and consequent fire or explosion in the center
fuel tank, accomplish the following:
(a) Within 60 days or 400 flight hours after the effective date
of this AD, whichever occurs first, accomplish a one-time visual
inspection of all electrical wiring conduits located in the center
fuel tank to detect discrepancies (chafing and cracking of conduits,
and inadequate clearance between tube assemblies and adjacent
structures), in accordance with Part A (Option 1) of the
Accomplishment Instructions of Canadair Alert Service Bulletin SB
A601R-28-036, Revision ``A,'' dated September 4, 1998. During the
visual inspection of all electrical wiring conduits in the center
fuel tank, pay particular attention to the right wing crossflow
shutoff valve conduit.
(1) If no discrepancy is found, no further action is required by
this paragraph.
(2) If any discrepancy is found that is within the limits
specified in the Accomplishment Instructions of the alert service
bulletin, no further action is required by this paragraph.
(3) If any discrepancy is found that is outside the limits
specified in the Accomplishment Instructions of the alert service
bulletin, prior to further flight, repair or replace any damaged
conduit with a tube assembly (as specified in the alert service
bulletin), and provide adequate clearance between the tube assembly
and adjacent structure, in accordance with Part B of the
Accomplishment Instructions of the alert service bulletin.
(b) Within 60 days or 400 flight hours after the effective date
of this AD, whichever occurs first, install a bracket modification
kit to reinforce the right wing crossflow shutoff valve conduit in
the center fuel tank, in accordance with Part C of the
Accomplishment Instructions of Canadair Alert Service Bulletin SB
A601R-28-036, Revision ``A,'' dated September 4, 1998.
(c) An alternative method of compliance or adjustment of the
compliance time that provides an acceptable level of safety may be
used if approved by the Manager, New York Aircraft Certification
Office (ACO), FAA, Engine and Propeller Directorate. Operators shall
submit their requests through an appropriate FAA Principal
Maintenance Inspector, who may add comments and then send it to the
Manager, New York ACO.
Note 2: Information concerning the existence of approved
alternative methods of compliance with this AD, if any, may be
obtained from the New York ACO.
(d) Special flight permits may be issued in accordance with
sections 21.197 and 21.199 of the Federal Aviation Regulations (14
CFR 21.197 and 21.199) to operate the airplane to a location where
the requirements of this AD can be accomplished.
(e) The actions shall be done in accordance with Canadair Alert
Service Bulletin SB A601R-28-036, Revision ``A,'' dated September 4,
1998. This incorporation by reference was approved by the Director
of the Federal Register in accordance with 5 U.S.C. 552(a) and 1 CFR
part 51. Copies may be obtained from Bombardier, Inc., Canadair,
Aerospace Group, P.O. Box 6087, Station Centreville, Montreal,
Quebec H3C 3G9, Canada. Copies may be inspected at the FAA,
Transport Airplane Directorate, 1601 Lind Avenue, SW., Renton,
Washington; or at the FAA, Engine and Propeller Directorate, New
York Aircraft Certification Office, 10 Fifth Street, Third Floor,
Valley Stream, New York; or at the Office of the Federal Register,
800 North Capitol Street, NW., suite 700, Washington, DC.
Note 3: The subject of this AD is addressed in Canadian
airworthiness directive CF-98-35, dated September 15, 1998.
(f) This amendment becomes effective on January 5, 1999.
Issued in Renton, Washington, on December 14, 1998.
Darrell M. Pederson,
Acting Manager, Transport Airplane Directorate, Aircraft Certification
Service.
[FR Doc. 98-33540 Filed 12-18-98; 8:45 am]
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