[Federal Register Volume 66, Number 248 (Thursday, December 27, 2001)]
[Rules and Regulations]
[Pages 66737-66739]
From the Federal Register Online via the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]
[FR Doc No: 01-31430]


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DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION

Federal Aviation Administration

14 CFR Part 39

[Docket No. 2001-NM-361-AD; Amendment 39-12571; AD 2001-26-07]
RIN 2120-AA64


Airworthiness Directives; Gulfstream Model G-IV 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 Gulfstream Model G-IV series airplanes. This 
action requires an inspection of the electrical connections for the 
fire extinguisher bottles; an inspection after any subsequent 
maintenance affecting the fire extinguisher bottles; and corrective 
action, if necessary. This action is prompted by a report indicating 
that the electrical connections for the fire extinguisher bottle squibs 
had been improperly installed either during manufacturing or during 
subsequent maintenance. This action is necessary to prevent fire 
extinguishing agent from being discharged into the wrong location, 
which could result in failure to extinguish an in-flight fire on an 
affected engine and jeopardize operation of the opposite engine.

DATES: Effective January 11, 2002.
    The incorporation by reference of certain publications listed in 
the regulations is approved by the Director of the Federal Register as 
of January 11, 2002.
    Comments for inclusion in the Rules Docket must be received on or 
before January 28, 2002.

ADDRESSES: Submit comments in triplicate to the Federal Aviation 
Administration (FAA), Transport Airplane Directorate, ANM-114, 
Attention: Rules Docket No. 2001-NM-361-AD, 1601 Lind Avenue, SW., 
Renton, Washington 98055-4056. Comments may be inspected at this 
location between 9:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m., Monday through Friday, except 
Federal holidays. Comments may be submitted via fax to (425) 227-1232. 
Comments may also be sent via the Internet using the following address: 
[email protected]. Comments sent via the Internet must contain 
``Docket No. 2001-NM-361-AD'' in the subject line and need not be 
submitted in triplicate. Comments sent via fax or the Internet as 
attached electronic files must be formatted in Microsoft Word 97 for 
Windows or ASCII text.
    The service information referenced in this AD may be obtained from 
Gulfstream Aerospace Corporation, P.O. Box 2206, M/S D-10, Savannah, 
Georgia 31402-9980. This information may be examined at the FAA, 
Transport Airplane Directorate, 1601 Lind Avenue, SW., Renton, 
Washington; or at the FAA, Atlanta Aircraft Certification Office, One 
Crown Center, 1895 Phoenix Boulevard, suite 450, Atlanta, Georgia 
30349; or at the Office of the Federal Register, 800 North Capitol 
Street, NW., suite 700, Washington, DC.

FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: John J. Philbin, Aerospace Engineer, 
Systems and Flight Test Branch, ACE-116A, FAA, Atlanta Aircraft 
Certification Office, One Crown Center, 1895 Phoenix Boulevard, suite 
450, Atlanta, Georgia 30349; telephone (770) 703-6072; fax (770) 703-
6097.

SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: The FAA has received a report that, during 
an inspection of a Gulfstream Model G-IV series airplane, the 
electrical connections for the left and right fire extinguisher bottle 
squibs were found to be improperly installed. The improper installation 
occurred either during manufacturing or during subsequent maintenance 
affecting the fire extinguisher bottles. The manufacturer states that a 
contributing factor for improper connection of the fire extinguisher 
bottle is the potential for the identification labels to migrate up the 
wiring harness, which increases the possibility for a technician to 
connect the wiring to incorrect terminals. This condition, if not 
corrected, could cause fire extinguishing agent to be discharged into 
the wrong location, which could result in failure to extinguish an in-
flight fire on an affected engine and jeopardize operation of the 
opposite engine.

FAA Determination

    The FAA has determined that issuance of this AD, applicable to 
Gulfstream Model G-IV series airplanes, serial numbers 1253 through 
1464 inclusive, is necessary because of the potential for improper 
connection of the electrical connections, as described previously. The 
FAA adds that wire marking tags often have been found much farther from 
the terminal ends than intended by the design, and it is uncertain when 
the discrepancies in tag installation began during production.
    However, the FAA has been notified by the manufacturer that the 
identified unsafe condition has been addressed on Model G-IV series 
airplanes, serial numbers 1465 and subsequent, by a clarification in 
the build instructions. Therefore, it is unnecessary to include those 
airplanes in the applicability of this AD.

Explanation of Relevant Service Information

    The FAA has reviewed and approved Gulfstream GIV Alert Customer 
Bulletin No. 30, dated November 2, 2001, which describes procedures for 
an inspection of the electrical connections for the engine fire 
extinguisher bottles; and corrective action, if necessary.

[[Page 66738]]

Explanation of the Requirements of the Rule

    Since an unsafe condition has been identified that is likely to 
exist or develop on other airplanes of the same type design, this AD is 
being issued to prevent fire extinguishing agent from being discharged 
into the wrong location, which could result in failure to extinguish an 
in-flight fire on an affected engine and jeopardize operation of the 
opposite engine. This AD requires accomplishment of the actions 
specified in the alert customer bulletin described previously, except 
as discussed below. This AD also requires that operators report the 
results of the inspection findings (both positive and negative) to the 
FAA.

Differences Between Service Bulletin and This AD

    Because it is not known whether the improper installation of the 
electrical connections for the fire extinguisher bottles occurred 
during the manufacturing process or during subsequent maintenance, this 
AD requires inspection of those electrical connections following any 
maintenance affecting the fire extinguisher bottles. The alert customer 
bulletin does not refer to inspection following maintenance. This AD 
also requires that inspection findings be reported to the FAA, whereas 
the alert customer bulletin recommends notice to Gulfstream that the 
Accomplishment Instructions of the alert customer bulletin have been 
performed.

Interim Action

    This is considered to be interim action until final action is 
identified, at which time the FAA may consider further rulemaking.

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.
    Submit comments using the following format:
     Organize comments issue-by-issue. For example, discuss a 
request to change the compliance time and a request to change the 
service bulletin reference as two separate issues.
     For each issue, state what specific change to the AD is 
being requested.
     Include justification (e.g., reasons or data) for each 
request.
    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 2001-NM-361-AD.'' The postcard will be date stamped 
and returned to the commenter.

Regulatory Impact

    The regulations adopted herein 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. Therefore, it 
is determined that this final rule does not have federalism 
implications under Executive Order 13132.
    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.


Sec. 39.13  [Amended]

    2. Section 39.13 is amended by adding the following new 
airworthiness directive:

2001-26-07  Gulfstream Aerospace Corporation: Amendment 39-12571. 
Docket 2001-NM-361-AD.

    Applicability: Model G-IV series airplanes, serial numbers 1253 
through 1464 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 (e) 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 prevent fire extinguishing agent from being discharged into 
the wrong location, which could result in failure to extinguish an 
in-flight fire on an affected engine and jeopardize operation of the 
opposite engine, accomplish the following:

Inspections

    (a) Within the next 25 flight hours, but no later than 10 days 
after the effective date of this AD: Perform a general visual 
inspection of the electrical connections of the fire extinguisher 
bottles for correct connections, in accordance with Gulfstream GIV 
Alert Customer Bulletin No. 30, dated November 2, 2001.


[[Page 66739]]


    Note 2: For the purposes of this AD, a general visual inspection 
is defined as: ``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 under normally 
available lighting conditions such as daylight, hangar lighting, 
flashlight, or drop-light, 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.''

    (b) Prior to further flight following any maintenance affecting 
the fire extinguisher bottles that is accomplished after performing 
the inspection required by paragraph (a) of this AD: Perform the 
inspection required by paragraph (a) of this AD, in accordance with 
Gulfstream GIV Alert Customer Bulletin No. 30, dated November 2, 
2001.

Corrective Action

    (c) If any incorrect electrical connection is detected during 
the inspection required by paragraph (a) or (b) of this AD, prior to 
further flight, correct that connection in accordance with the 
Accomplishment Instructions of Gulfstream GIV Alert Customer 
Bulletin No. 30, dated November 2, 2001.

Reporting

    (d) Submit a report of inspection findings (both positive and 
negative) of the inspection required by paragraph (a) of this AD to 
the Manager, Atlanta Aircraft Certification Office (ACO), FAA, One 
Crown Center, 1895 Phoenix Boulevard, suite 450, Atlanta, Georgia 
30349; fax (770) 703-6097; at the applicable time specified in 
paragraph (d)(1) or (d)(2) of this AD. The report must include the 
inspection results, a description of any discrepancies found, 
airplane serial number, and number of landings and flight hours on 
the airplane. Information collection requirements contained in this 
regulation have been approved by the Office of Management and Budget 
(OMB) under the provisions of the Paperwork Reduction Act of 1980 
(44 U.S.C. 3501 et seq.) and have been assigned OMB Control Number 
2120-0056.
    (1) For airplanes on which the inspection required by paragraph 
(a) of this AD is accomplished after the effective date of this AD: 
Submit the report within 35 days after performing the inspection 
required by paragraph (a) of this AD.
    (2) For airplanes on which the inspection required by paragraph 
(a) of this AD has been accomplished prior to the effective date of 
this AD: Submit the report within 35 days after the effective date 
of this AD.

Alternative Methods of Compliance

    (e) 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, Atlanta ACO. Operators shall submit 
their requests through an appropriate FAA Principal Maintenance 
Inspector, who may add comments and then send it to the Manager, 
Atlanta ACO.

    Note 3: Information concerning the existence of approved 
alternative methods of compliance with this AD, if any, may be 
obtained from the Atlanta ACO.

Special Flight Permits

    (f) 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.

Incorporation by Reference

    (g) The actions shall be done in accordance with Gulfstream GIV 
Alert Customer Bulletin No. 30, dated November 2, 2001. 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 Gulfstream Aerospace Corporation, 
P.O. Box 2206, M/S D-10, Savannah, Georgia 31402-9980. Copies may be 
inspected at the FAA, Transport Airplane Directorate, 1601 Lind 
Avenue, SW., Renton, Washington; or at the FAA, Atlanta Aircraft 
Certification Office, One Crown Center, 1895 Phoenix Boulevard, 
suite 450, Atlanta, Georgia; or at the Office of the Federal 
Register, 800 North Capitol Street, NW., suite 700, Washington, DC.

Effective Date

    (h) This amendment becomes effective on January 11, 2002.

    Issued in Renton, Washington, on December 14, 2001.
Kalene C. Yanamura,
Acting Manager, Transport Airplane Directorate, Aircraft Certification 
Service.
[FR Doc. 01-31430 Filed 12-26-01; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE 4910-13-P