[Federal Register Volume 67, Number 139 (Friday, July 19, 2002)]
[Rules and Regulations]
[Pages 47651-47653]
From the Federal Register Online via the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]
[FR Doc No: 02-17530]


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

DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION

Federal Aviation Administration

14 CFR Part 39

[Docket No. 2001-NM-65-AD; Amendment 39-12811; AD 2002-14-11]
RIN 2120-AA64


Airworthiness Directives; McDonnell Douglas Model MD-11 and -11F 
Airplanes

AGENCY: Federal Aviation Administration, DOT.

ACTION: Final rule.

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

SUMMARY: This amendment supersedes an existing airworthiness directive 
(AD), applicable to certain McDonnell Douglas Model MD-11 series 
airplanes, that currently requires replacing the ground support 
bracket(s); and rerouting the ground cables of the galley external 
power and main external power, or ground cables of the main external 
power; as applicable. This amendment requires a general visual 
inspection of the ground cables of the main external power and galley 
external power for excessive length, as applicable; and corrective 
actions, if necessary. This amendment is prompted by the FAA's 
determination that currently required actions may not adequately 
address the identified unsafe condition. The actions specified by this 
AD are intended to prevent arcing and heat damage to the attachment 
points of the main external and galley power receptacle ground wire, 
insulation blankets outboard and aft of the receptacle area, and 
adjacent power cables, which could result in smoke and fire in the 
forward cargo compartment.

DATES: Effective August 23, 2002.
    The incorporation by reference of McDonnell Douglas Alert Service 
Bulletin MD11-24A138, Revision 01, dated June 5, 2001, as listed in the 
regulations, is approved by the Director of the Federal Register as of 
August 23, 2002.
    The incorporation by reference of McDonnell Douglas Alert Service 
Bulletin MD11-24A138, dated April 3, 2000, as listed in the 
regulations, was approved previously by the Director of the Federal 
Register as of January 8, 2001 (65 FR 75616, December 4, 2000).

ADDRESSES: The service information referenced in this AD may be 
obtained from Boeing Commercial Aircraft Group, Long Beach Division, 
3855 Lakewood Boulevard, Long Beach, California 90846, Attention: Data 
and Service Management, Dept. C1-L5A (D800-0024). This information may 
be examined at the FAA, Transport Airplane Directorate, 1601 Lind 
Avenue, SW., Renton, Washington; or at the FAA, Los Angeles Aircraft 
Certification Office, 3960 Paramount Boulevard, Lakewood, California; 
or at the Office of the Federal Register, 800 North Capitol Street, 
NW., suite 700, Washington, DC.

FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Technical Information: Brett Portwood, 
Aerospace Engineer, Systems and Equipment Branch, ANM-130L, FAA, Los 
Angeles Aircraft Certification Office, 3960 Paramount Boulevard, 
Lakewood, California 90712-4137; telephone (562) 627-5350; fax (562) 
627-5210.
    Other Information: Sandi Carli, Airworthiness Directive Technical 
Writer/Editor; telephone (425) 687-4243, fax (425) 227-1232. Questions 
or comments may also be sent via the Internet using the following 
address: [email protected]. Questions or comments sent via the 
Internet as attached electronic files must be formatted in Microsoft 
Word 97 for Windows or ASCII text.

SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: A proposal to amend part 39 of the Federal 
Aviation Regulations (14 CFR part 39) by superseding AD 2000-24-13, 
amendment 39-12020 (65 FR 75616, December 4, 2000), which is applicable 
to certain McDonnell Douglas Model MD-11 and -11F airplanes, was 
published in the Federal Register on October 5, 2001 (66 FR 50877). The 
action continues to require replacing the ground support bracket(s); 
and rerouting the ground cables of the galley external power and main 
external power, or ground cables of the main external power; as 
applicable. The action proposed to require a general visual inspection 
of the ground cables of the main external power and galley external 
power for excessive length, as applicable; and corrective actions, if 
necessary.

Comments

    Interested persons have been afforded an opportunity to participate 
in the making of this amendment. No comments were submitted in response 
to the proposal or the FAA's determination of the cost to the public.

Explanation of Change to Applicability

    The FAA finds that Model MD-11 and -11F airplanes were not 
specifically identified by model name in the applicability of the 
proposed AD. However, those airplanes were identified by manufacturer's 
fuselage numbers in the effectivity listing of McDonnell Douglas Alert 
Service Bulletin MD11-24A138, Revision 01, dated June 5, 2001, which 
was referenced in the applicability of the proposed AD. Therefore, we 
have revised this AD to specifically reference Model MD-11 and -11F 
airplanes where appropriate. In addition, we have revised the 
applicability of the existing AD to identify model designations as 
published in the most recent type certificate data sheet for the 
affected models.

Explanation of Change to Inspection Definition

    For clarification purposes, the FAA has revised the definition of a 
``general visual inspection'' in Note 2 of this final rule.

Conclusion

    After careful review of the available data, the FAA has determined 
that air safety and the public interest require the adoption of the 
rule with the changes described above. The FAA has determined that 
these changes will neither increase the economic burden on any operator 
nor increase the scope of the AD.

Cost Impact

    There are approximately 149 Model MD-11 and -11F airplanes of the 
affected design in the worldwide fleet. The FAA estimates that 59 
airplanes of U.S. registry will be affected by this AD.
    The actions that are currently required by AD 2000-24-13, and 
retained in this amendment, take approximately 1 work hour (for Group 1 
airplanes) or 2 work hours (for Group 2 airplanes) per airplane to 
accomplish the required actions, at an average labor rate of $60 per 
work hour. Required parts cost approximately $337 (for Group 1 
airplanes) or $647 (for Group 2 airplanes) per airplane. Based on these 
figures, the cost impact of the currently required actions on U.S. 
operators is estimated to be $397 (for Group 1 airplanes) or $767 (for 
Group 2 airplanes), per airplane.
    The new actions that are required by this AD action will take 
approximately 1 work hour per airplane to accomplish, at an average 
labor rate of $60 per work hour. Based on these figures, the cost 
impact of the new requirements of this

[[Page 47652]]

AD is estimated to be $3,540, or $60 per airplane.
    The cost impact figures discussed above are based on assumptions 
that no operator has yet accomplished any of the requirements of this 
AD action, and that no operator would accomplish those actions in the 
future if this AD were not adopted. The cost impact figures discussed 
in AD rulemaking actions represent only the time necessary to perform 
the specific actions actually required by the AD. These figures 
typically do not include incidental costs, such as the time required to 
gain access and close up, planning time, or time necessitated by other 
administrative actions.

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.
    For the reasons discussed above, I certify that this action (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. A final evaluation has been prepared for this action 
and it is contained in the Rules Docket. A copy of it 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 removing amendment 39-12020 (65 FR 
75616, December 4, 2000), and by adding a new airworthiness directive 
(AD), amendment 39-12811, to read as follows:

2002-14-11  McDonnell Douglas: Amendment 39-12811. Docket 2001-NM-
65-AD. Supersedes AD 2000-24-13, Amendment 39-12020.

    Applicability: Model MD-11 and -11F airplanes, as listed in 
McDonnell Douglas Alert Service Bulletin MD11-24A138, Revision 01, 
dated June 5, 2001; 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 prevent arcing and heat damage to the attachment points of 
the main external and galley power receptacle ground wire, 
insulation blankets outboard and aft of the receptacle area, and 
adjacent power cables, which could result in smoke and fire in the 
forward cargo compartment, accomplish the following:

Replacement and Rerouting

    (a) Within 12 months after January 8, 2001 (the effective date 
of AD 2000-24-13, amendment 39-12020), accomplish the actions 
specified in paragraph (a)(1) or (a)(2) of this AD, as applicable, 
in accordance with McDonnell Douglas Alert Service Bulletin MD11-
24A138, dated April 3, 2000, or Revision 01, dated June 5, 2001. As 
of the effective date of this AD, only Revision 01 of the service 
bulletin shall be used.
    (1) For Group 1 airplanes listed in the original version of the 
service bulletin, excluding fuselage number 0456: Replace the ground 
support brackets with new brackets and reroute the ground cables of 
the galley external power and main external power.
    (2) For Group 2 airplanes listed in the original version of the 
service bulletin and fuselage number 0456: Replace the ground 
support bracket and reroute the ground cables of the main external 
power.

Inspection and Corrective Actions, If Necessary

    (b) Within 12 months after the effective date of this AD, 
accomplish the actions specified in paragraph (b)(1) or (b)(2) of 
this AD, as applicable, in accordance with McDonnell Douglas Alert 
Service Bulletin MD11-24A138, Revision 01, dated June 5, 2001.
    (1) For Group 3 airplanes listed in Revision 01 of the service 
bulletin: Do a general visual inspection of the ground cables of the 
main external power and galley external power for excessive length. 
If any cable length is excessive, before further flight, do 
applicable corrective actions (e.g., cut cable assembly to correct 
length and install a terminal on the cut end of the cable) per 
Condition 2 of Figure 3 of the service bulletin.
    (2) For Group 4 airplanes listed in Revision 01 of the service 
bulletin: Do a general visual inspection of the ground cables of the 
main external power for excessive length. If any cable length is 
excessive, before further flight, do applicable corrective actions 
(e.g., cut cable assembly to correct length and install a terminal 
on the cut end of the cable) per Condition 2 of Figure 4 of the 
service bulletin.

    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 from within 
touching distance unless otherwise specified. A mirror may be 
necessary to enhance visual access to all exposed 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.''

Alternative Methods of Compliance

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

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

Special Flight Permits

    (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.

Incorporation by Reference

    (e) The actions shall be done in accordance with McDonnell 
Douglas Alert Service Bulletin MD11-24A138, dated April 3, 2000, or 
McDonnell Douglas Alert Service Bulletin MD11-24A138, Revision 01, 
dated June 5, 2001; as applicable.
    (1) This incorporation by reference of McDonnell Douglas Alert 
Service Bulletin MD11-24A138, Revision 01, dated June 5, 2001, is 
approved by the Director of the Federal Register in accordance with 
5 U.S.C. 552(a) and 1 CFR part 51.

[[Page 47653]]

    (2) The incorporation by reference of McDonnell Douglas Alert 
Service Bulletin MD11-24A138, dated April 3, 2000, was approved 
previously by the Director of the Federal Register as of January 8, 
2001 (65 FR 75616, December 4, 2000).
    (3) Copies may be obtained from Boeing Commercial Aircraft 
Group, Long Beach Division, 3855 Lakewood Boulevard, Long Beach, 
California 90846, Attention: Data and Service Management, Dept. C1-
L5A (D800-0024). Copies may be inspected at the FAA, Transport 
Airplane Directorate, 1601 Lind Avenue, SW., Renton, Washington; or 
at the FAA, Los Angeles Aircraft Certification Office, 3960 
Paramount Boulevard, Lakewood, California; or at the Office of the 
Federal Register, 800 North Capitol Street, NW., suite 700, 
Washington, DC.

Effective Date

    (f) This amendment becomes effective on August 23, 2002.

    Issued in Renton, Washington, on July 2, 2002.
Jeffrey E. Duven,
Acting Manager, Transport Airplane Directorate, Aircraft Certification 
Service.
[FR Doc. 02-17530 Filed 7-18-02; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE 4910-13-P