[Federal Register Volume 69, Number 168 (Tuesday, August 31, 2004)]
[Proposed Rules]
[Pages 53016-53021]
From the Federal Register Online via the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]
[FR Doc No: 04-19835]


 ========================================================================
 Proposed Rules
                                                 Federal Register
 ________________________________________________________________________
 
 This section of the FEDERAL REGISTER contains notices to the public of 
 the proposed issuance of rules and regulations. The purpose of these 
 notices is to give interested persons an opportunity to participate in 
 the rule making prior to the adoption of the final rules.
 
 ========================================================================
 

  Federal Register / Vol. 69, No. 168 / Tuesday, August 31, 2004 / 
Proposed Rules  

[[Page 53016]]



DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION

Federal Aviation Administration

14 CFR Part 39

[Docket No. 2001-NM-243-AD]
RIN 2120-AA64


Airworthiness Directives; Airbus Model A330, A340-200, and A340-
300 Series Airplanes

AGENCY: Federal Aviation Administration, DOT.

ACTION: Supplemental notice of proposed rulemaking; reopening of 
comment period.

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

SUMMARY: This document revises an earlier proposed airworthiness 
directive (AD), applicable to the airplane models listed above. That 
proposed AD would have superseded an existing AD currently requiring 
repetitive inspections to detect discrepancies of the transfer tubes 
and the collar of the ball nut of the trimmable horizontal stabilizer 
actuator (THSA), and corrective action if necessary. The proposed AD 
would have expanded the applicability of the existing AD; and required 
new repetitive inspections for discrepancies of the ball screw 
assembly; corrective action if necessary; repetitive greasing of the 
THSA ball nut, and replacement of the THSA if necessary; and a 
modification or replacement (as applicable) of the ball nut assembly, 
which would end certain repetitive inspections. This new action revises 
the proposed AD by clarifying affected part numbers and adding a new 
compliance time for the inspection of the ball screw assembly which 
would apply under certain conditions. The actions specified by this new 
proposed AD are intended to prevent degraded operation of the THSA due 
to the entrance of water into the ball nut. Degraded operation could 
lead to reduced controllability of the airplane. This action is 
intended to address the identified unsafe condition.

DATES: Comments must be received by September 27, 2004.

ADDRESSES: Submit comments in triplicate to the Federal Aviation 
Administration (FAA), Transport Airplane Directorate, ANM-114, 
Attention: Rules Docket No. 2001-NM-243-AD, 1601 Lind Avenue, SW., 
Renton, Washington 98055-4056. Comments may be inspected at this 
location between 9 a.m. and 3 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 fax or the Internet must 
contain ``Docket No. 2001-NM-243-AD'' in the subject line and need not 
be submitted in triplicate. Comments sent via the Internet as attached 
electronic files must be formatted in Microsoft Word 97 or 2000 or 
ASCII text.
    The service information referenced in the proposed rule may be 
obtained from Airbus, 1 Rond Point Maurice Bellonte, 31707 Blagnac 
Cedex, France. This information may be examined at the FAA, Transport 
Airplane Directorate, 1601 Lind Avenue, SW., Renton, Washington.

FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Dan Rodina, Aerospace Engineer, 
International Branch, ANM-116, FAA, Transport Airplane Directorate, 
1601 Lind Avenue, SW., Renton, Washington 98055-4056; telephone (425) 
227-2125; fax (425) 227-1149.

SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION:

Comments Invited

    Interested persons are invited to participate in the making of the 
proposed 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 above. All 
communications received on or before the closing date for comments, 
specified above, will be considered before taking action on the 
proposed rule. The proposals contained in this action may be changed in 
light of the comments received.
    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 proposed 
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 proposed 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 summarizing each FAA-public contact concerned with 
the substance of this proposal will be filed in the Rules Docket.
    Commenters wishing the FAA to acknowledge receipt of their comments 
submitted in response to this action must submit a self-addressed, 
stamped postcard on which the following statement is made: ``Comments 
to Docket Number 2001-NM-243-AD.'' The postcard will be date stamped 
and returned to the commenter.

Availability of NPRMs

    Any person may obtain a copy of this NPRM by submitting a request 
to the FAA, Transport Airplane Directorate, ANM-114, Attention: Rules 
Docket No. 2001-NM-243-AD, 1601 Lind Avenue, SW., Renton, Washington 
98055-4056.

Discussion

    A proposal to amend part 39 of the Federal Aviation Regulations (14 
CFR part 39) to add an airworthiness directive (AD), applicable to 
certain Airbus Model A330, A340-200, and A340-300 series airplanes, was 
published as a notice of proposed rulemaking (NPRM) in the Federal 
Register on April 5, 2004 (69 FR 17610). That NPRM proposed to 
supersede AD 2001-11-09, amendment 39-12252 (66 FR 31143, June 11, 
2001), which is applicable to certain Airbus Model A330 and A340 series 
airplanes. That proposal would have continued to require repetitive 
inspections to detect discrepancies of the transfer tubes and the 
collar of the ball nut of the trimmable horizontal stabilizer actuator 
(THSA); and corrective action, if necessary. That proposal would have 
expanded the applicability of the existing AD; and would have required 
new repetitive inspections for discrepancies of the ball screw

[[Page 53017]]

assembly; corrective action if necessary; repetitive greasing of the 
THSA ball nut, and replacement of the THSA if necessary; and a 
modification or replacement (as applicable) of the ball nut assembly. 
Such modification or replacement (as applicable) would have terminated 
certain repetitive inspections. That NPRM was prompted by reports of 
additional incidents in which transfer tubes disconnected from the ball 
nut of the THSA. In response to these incidents, Airbus enhanced 
existing maintenance instructions for repetitive greasing of the THSA 
and developed procedures for new repetitive inspections for 
discrepancies of the ball screw assembly. The proposed requirements 
were intended to prevent degraded operation of the THSA due to the 
entrance of water into the ball nut, which, if not corrected, could 
result in reduced controllability of the airplane.

Explanation of New Relevant Service Information

    Airbus has issued Service Bulletin (SB) A330-27-3102, Revision 04, 
dated December 8, 2003. (The original NPRM refers to Airbus SB A330-27-
3102, Revision 03, dated June 20, 2003, as the acceptable source of 
service information for accomplishing certain inspections and 
corrective actions.) Revision 04 of the SB clarifies procedures for 
inspecting the lower attachment of the trimmable horizontal stabilizer 
to the THSA, and revises an incorrect airplane maintenance manual (AMM) 
reference, but adds no new procedures. Accordingly, we have revised 
paragraph (e) of this supplemental NPRM to refer to Revision 04 as the 
acceptable source of service information for the actions required by 
that paragraph. We have also revised paragraph (i)(2) of this 
supplemental NPRM (which was included as paragraph (h)(2) of the 
original NPRM) to state that inspections and corrective actions 
accomplished previously in accordance with Airbus SB A330-27-3102, 
Revision 03, are acceptable for compliance with paragraph (e). The 
Direction G[eacute]n[eacute]rale de l'Aviation Civile (DGAC), which is 
the airworthiness authority for France, has approved Airbus SB A330-27-
3102, Revision 04.

Comments

    Interested persons have been afforded an opportunity to participate 
in the making of this amendment. Due consideration has been given to 
the comments received.

Request To Clarify Affected Part Numbers

    Two commenters request that we revise paragraphs (d) and (e) of the 
original NPRM to clarify whether those paragraphs require repetitive 
greasing of the ball nut and repetitive inspections of the ball screw 
assembly of the THSA for any THSA having part number (P/N) 47172-300. 
The commenters note that both the referenced Airbus SBs and the 
parallel French airworthiness directive reference those THSAs as 
subject parts.
    We agree that we need to clarify paragraphs (d) and (e) of this 
supplemental NPRM. When we prepared the original NPRM, we considered 
the reference to ``P/N 47172'' to include P/N 47172-300. We now realize 
that our intent was not clear. Thus we have revised paragraphs (d) and 
(e) of this supplemental NPRM to specifically identify P/N 47172-300 as 
an affected P/N.

Request To Add On-Condition Compliance Time for Inspection of THSAs

    One commenter also notes that paragraph 3.2.3. of French 
airworthiness directives 2002-414(B) R2 and 2002-415(B) R2, both dated 
October 30, 2002, specifies to inspect, before the next flight, any 
THSA having P/N 47172-300 before the next flight if the ``PRIM X PITCH 
FAULT'' or ``STAB CTL FAULT'' message is displayed on the Electronic 
Centralized Aircraft Monitor (ECAM). (The French airworthiness 
directives identify Airbus Service Bulletins A330-27-3102 and A340-27-
4107 as the sources of instructions for this inspection.) The commenter 
notes that this provision for inspecting THSAs having P/N 47172-300 
before further flight was omitted from the original NPRM.
    We agree that this provision was inadvertently omitted from the 
original NPRM. Further, we note that this inspection was omitted for 
not only THSAs having P/N 47172-300, but also for P/Ns 47147-XXX and 
47172. Therefore, we have added a new paragraph (f) to this 
supplemental NPRM to specify that the inspection in paragraph (e) of 
this AD must be done before further flight if an applicable message is 
displayed on the ECAM.

Request To Correct Source for Replacement Procedures

    One commenter notes that paragraphs (d) and (e)(2) of the proposed 
AD specify replacement of the THSA in accordance with the applicable 
referenced SB. The commenter points out that the referenced SB does not 
contain procedures for such replacement. The commenter requests that we 
revise the proposed AD to specify replacement of the THSA in accordance 
with the AMM.
    We agree. Paragraph 3.B.(3) of Airbus SBs A330-27-3102, Revision 
04; and A340-27-4107, Revision 04, dated June 20, 2003; specify to 
replace the THSA but do not specify procedures for such replacement. 
Consequently, we have revised paragraphs (d) and (e)(2) of this 
supplemental NPRM to specify that any necessary replacement of the THSA 
must be accomplished in accordance with a method approved by us or the 
DGAC (or its delegated agent). Replacement of the THSA in accordance 
with Chapter 27-44-51 of the Airbus A330/A340 AMM is one approved 
method.

Request To Correct Reference to Secondary SB

    One commenter points out that references to a certain TRW SB in the 
``Explanation of Relevant Service Information'' section and Note 4 of 
the original NPRM are incorrect. The references to ``TRW Aeronautical 
Systems SB 47172-27-10'' should have read ``TRW Aeronautical Systems SB 
47147-27-10.'' Airbus SBs A330-27-3093 and A340-27-4099 refer to TRW 
Aeronautical Systems SB 47147-27-10 as the appropriate source of 
service information for modifying the ball nut of the THSA.
    We agree and have revised Note 4 of this supplemental NPRM 
accordingly. The relevant section of the preamble of the original NPRM 
is not restated in this supplemental NPRM, so no further change is 
possible in this regard.

Explanation of Additional Change Made to Supplemental NPRM

    For clarification, the FAA has revised the definition of a 
``general visual inspection'' in this action.

Conclusion

    Since certain changes described previously expand the scope of the 
original NPRM, the FAA has determined that it is necessary to reopen 
the comment period to provide additional opportunity for public 
comment.

Changes to 14 CFR Part 39/Effect on the Proposed AD

    On July 10, 2002, the FAA issued a new version of 14 CFR part 39 
(67 FR 47997, July 22, 2002), which governs the FAA's airworthiness 
directives system. The regulation now includes material that relates to 
altered products, special flight permits, and alternative methods of 
compliance (AMOCs). These changes

[[Page 53018]]

are reflected in this supplemental NPRM.

Cost Impact

    There are approximately 9 Model A330 series airplanes of U.S. 
registry that would be affected by this proposed AD. Currently, there 
are no affected Model A340-200 or -300 series airplanes on the U.S. 
Register. However, if an affected Model A340-200 or -300 series 
airplane is imported and placed on the U.S. Register in the future, the 
following costs would also apply to those airplanes.
    The inspections (in accordance with Airbus All Operators Telex 
(AOT) A330-27A3088 or A340-27A4093, as applicable) that are currently 
required by AD 2001-11-09 take approximately 1 work hour per airplane, 
per inspection cycle, at an average labor rate of $65 per work hour. 
Based on these figures, the cost impact of the currently required 
actions on U.S. operators is estimated to be $585, or $65 per airplane, 
per inspection cycle.
    The new inspections (in accordance with Airbus SBs A330-27-3088 or 
A340-27-4093, as applicable) that are proposed in this supplemental 
NPRM would take approximately 1 work hour per airplane, per inspection 
cycle, at an average labor rate of $65 per work hour. Based on these 
figures, the cost impact of this proposed requirement on U.S. operators 
is estimated to be $585, or $65 per airplane, per inspection cycle.
    The new greasing action that is proposed in this supplemental NPRM 
would take approximately 1 work hour per airplane, per maintenance 
cycle, at an average labor rate of $65 per work hour. Based on these 
figures, the cost impact of this proposed requirement on U.S. operators 
is estimated to be $585, or $65 per airplane, per maintenance cycle.
    In addition to the actions stated above, certain airplanes may be 
subject to additional actions. The following table contains the cost 
impact estimate for each airplane affected by the SBs listed below, at 
an average labor rate of $65 per work hour:

----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                                                     Estimated
   For airplanes listed in Airbus SB--     Estimated number of work      Estimated parts cost        cost per
                                                     hours                                           airplane
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
A330-27-3085 or A340-27-4089, both        12........................  No charge.................            $780
 Revision 02.
A330-27-3093 or A340-27-4099, both        6.........................  No charge.................             390
 Revision 01.
A330-27-3052, Revision 03...............  6.........................  No charge.................             390
A330-27-3007, Revision 01...............  1.........................  No charge.................              65
A330-27-3015............................  2.........................  No charge.................             130
A330-27-3047, Revision 01...............  2.........................  No charge.................             130
A330-27-3050............................  2.........................  No charge.................             130
A330-55-3020, Revision 01...............  2 (inspection only).......  None......................             130
A340-27-4059, Revision 03...............  6.........................  No charge.................             390
A340-27-4007............................  2.........................  No charge.................             130
A340-27-4025............................  2.........................  No charge.................             130
A340-27-4054, Revision 01...............  2.........................  No charge.................             130
A340-27-4057............................  2.........................  No charge.................             130
A340-55-4021, Revision 01...............  2 (inspection only).......  None......................             130
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

    The cost impact figures discussed above are based on assumptions 
that no operator has yet accomplished any of the proposed 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 proposed herein would 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 proposal would not have federalism implications 
under Executive Order 13132.
    For the reasons discussed above, I certify that this proposed 
regulation (1) is not a ``significant regulatory action'' under 
Executive Order 12866; (2) is not a ``significant rule'' under the DOT 
Regulatory Policies and Procedures (44 FR 11034, February 26, 1979); 
and (3) if promulgated, 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 copy of the draft 
regulatory evaluation prepared for this action is contained in the 
Rules Docket. A copy of it may be obtained by contacting the Rules 
Docket at the location provided under the caption ADDRESSES.

List of Subjects in 14 CFR Part 39

    Air transportation, Aircraft, Aviation safety, Safety.

The Proposed Amendment

    Accordingly, pursuant to the authority delegated to me by the 
Administrator, the Federal Aviation Administration proposes to amend 
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 39-12252 (66 FR 
31143, June 11, 2001), and by adding a new airworthiness directive 
(AD), to read as follows:

Airbus: Docket 2001-NM-243-AD. Supersedes AD 2001-11-09, Amendment 
39-12252.

    Applicability: All Model A330, A340-200, and A340-300 series 
airplanes; certificated in any category.
    Compliance: Required as indicated, unless accomplished 
previously.
    To prevent degraded operation of the trimmable horizontal 
stabilizer actuator (THSA) due to the entrance of water into the 
ball nut, which could result in reduced controllability of the 
airplane, accomplish the following:

[[Page 53019]]

Requirements of AD 2001-11-09

Repetitive Inspections

    (a) For Model A330, A340-200, and A340-300 series airplanes 
equipped with a THSA part number (P/N) 47172, and on which Airbus 
Modification 45299 has been performed: Within 150 flight hours from 
June 26, 2001 (the effective date of AD 2001-11-09, amendment 39-
12252), perform a detailed inspection to detect discrepancies in the 
THSA (including distortion of the transfer tubes, disconnection of 
the tubes, and distortion of the collar of the ball nut), in 
accordance with Airbus All Operators Telex (AOT) A330-27A3088 (for 
Model A330 series airplanes) or A340-27A4093 (for Model A340 series 
airplanes), both dated April 5, 2001, as applicable. If any 
discrepancy, as defined in paragraph 4-2-2/Rejection Criteria of the 
applicable AOT, is detected, prior to further flight, replace the 
THSA with a serviceable one, in accordance with the applicable AOT.

    Note 1: For the purposes of this AD, a detailed inspection is 
defined as: ``An intensive visual examination of a specific 
structural area, system, installation, or assembly to detect damage, 
failure, or irregularity. Available lighting is normally 
supplemented with a direct source of good lighting at intensity 
deemed appropriate by the inspector. Inspection aids such as mirror, 
magnifying lenses, etc., may be used. Surface cleaning and elaborate 
access procedures may be required.''

    (b) At intervals not to exceed 150 flight hours, repeat the 
inspection mandated in paragraph (a) of this AD, until paragraph (c) 
of this AD has been accomplished.

New Requirements of This AD

Repetitive Detailed Inspections of THSA Ball Nut and Corrective 
Action

    (c) For airplanes equipped with a THSA having P/N 47172 or 
47147-400: At the applicable compliance time specified in paragraph 
(c)(1), (c)(2), or (c)(3) of this AD, perform a detailed inspection 
of the transfer tubes and collar on the THSA ball nut to detect 
discrepancies, including ball migration, distortion, or evidence of 
disconnection of the THSA ball nut; in accordance with Airbus 
Service Bulletin A330-27-3088 (for Model A330 series airplanes) or 
A340-27-4093 (for Model A340-200 and -300 series airplanes), both 
Revision 04, both dated September 5, 2002; as applicable. Repeat 
this inspection at intervals not to exceed 150 flight hours until 
paragraph (g) of this AD is accomplished. If any discrepancy is 
found during any inspection in accordance with this paragraph, 
before further flight, repair the THSA, in accordance with a method 
approved by the Manager, International Branch, ANM-116, Transport 
Airplane Directorate, FAA; or the Direction G[eacute]n[eacute]rale 
de l'Aviation Civile (DGAC) (or its delegated agent).
    (1) For airplanes equipped with a THSA having P/N 47172 or 
47147-400: Except as provided by paragraph (c)(3) of this AD, for 
airplanes inspected before the effective date of this AD in 
accordance with paragraph (a) of this AD, do the initial inspection 
within 150 flight hours since the most recent inspection in 
accordance with paragraph (a) or (b) of this AD. Accomplishment of 
this inspection terminates the repetitive inspections required by 
paragraph (b) of this AD.
    (2) For airplanes equipped with a THSA having P/N 47172 or 
47147-400: Except as provided by paragraph (c)(3) of this AD, for 
airplanes not inspected before the effective date of this AD in 
accordance with paragraph (a) of this AD, do the initial inspection 
within 150 flight hours after the effective date of this AD. 
Accomplishment of this inspection within the compliance time 
specified in paragraph (a) of this AD eliminates the need to 
accomplish the inspection in paragraph (a) of this AD and terminates 
the repetitive inspections required by paragraph (b) of this AD.
    (3) For airplanes equipped with a THSA having P/N 47172 or 
47147-400: If the ``PRIM X PITCH FAULT'' or ``STAB CTL FAULT'' 
message is displayed on the Electronic Centralized Aircraft Monitor 
(ECAM) associated with the ``PITCH TRIM ACTR (1CS)'' maintenance 
message, do the inspection in paragraph (c) of this AD before 
further flight after the message is displayed on the ECAM.

Repetitive Greasing Procedure

    (d) For airplanes equipped with a THSA having P/N 47172, 47172-
300, or 47147-XXX (where ``XXX'' is any dash number): Within 700 
flight hours after accomplishment of the last greasing of the ball 
nut of the THSA, grease the ball nut of the THSA in accordance with 
a method approved by the Manager, International Branch, ANM-116; or 
the DGAC (or its delegated agent). Doing the actions in Chapter 12-
22-27, page block 301, of the Airplane Maintenance Manual is one 
approved method. Repeat the greasing procedures at intervals not to 
exceed 700 flight hours. If, during any accomplishment of the 
greasing procedure, the new grease is expelled from the transfer 
tube (instead of through the drain hole): Before further flight, 
replace the THSA with a new or serviceable THSA in accordance with a 
method approved by either the Manager, International Branch, ANM-
116, Transport Airplane Directorate, FAA; or the DGAC (or its 
delegated agent). Replacement of the THSA in accordance with Chapter 
27-44-51 of the Airbus A330/A340 AMM is one approved method.

Repetitive Inspections of the Ball Screw Assembly and Corrective 
Actions

    (e) For airplanes equipped with a THSA having P/N 47172, 47172-
300, or 47147-XXX (where ``XXX'' is any dash number): Except as 
provided by paragraph (f) of this AD, within 700 flight hours after 
the effective date of this AD, perform a detailed inspection of the 
ball screw assembly for discrepancies; including cracks, metallic 
debris, dents, corrosion, loose nuts, and damaged or missing lock 
washers and pins; and an inspection of the gap between the secondary 
nut tenons and the transfer plates using a feeler gage to ensure 
free movement; in accordance with Airbus Service Bulletins A330-27-
3102, Revision 04, dated December 8, 2003 (for Model A330 series 
airplanes); or A340-27-4107, Revision 04, dated June 20, 2003 (for 
Model A340-200 and -300 series airplanes); as applicable.
    (1) Repeat the inspection at intervals not to exceed 700 flight 
hours, except as provided by paragraph (f) of this AD.
    (2) If any discrepancy is found that is outside the limits 
specified in the applicable service bulletin, before further flight, 
replace the THSA with a new part, in accordance with a method 
approved by either the Manager, International Branch, ANM-116; or 
the DGAC (or its delegated agent). Replacement of the THSA in 
accordance with Chapter 27-44-51 of the Airbus A330/A340 AMM is one 
approved method.

    Note 2: There is no terminating action at this time for the 
repetitive actions required by paragraphs (d) and (e) of this AD.

    (f) If the ``PRIM X PITCH FAULT'' or ``STAB CTL FAULT'' message 
is displayed on the ECAM associated with the ``PITCH TRIM ACTR 
(1CS)'' maintenance message, do the inspection in paragraph (e) of 
this AD before further flight after the message is displayed on the 
ECAM.

Modification

    (g) Within 24 months after the effective date of this AD, modify 
the ball nut of each THSA by doing paragraph (g)(1) or (g)(2) of 
this AD, as applicable. Accomplishment of paragraph (g)(1) or (g)(2) 
of this AD terminates the repetitive inspections required by 
paragraph (c) of this AD.
    (1) For THSAs having P/N 47172: Modify the ball nut of the THSA, 
or replace the existing THSA with a serviceable part having P/N 
47172-300; in accordance with Airbus Service Bulletin A330-27-3085 
(for Model A330 series airplanes) or A340-27-4089 (for Model A340-
313 series airplanes), both Revision 02, both dated September 5, 
2002; as applicable.

    Note 3: Airbus Service Bulletins A330-27-3085 and A340-27-4089 
refer to TRW Aeronautical Systems Service Bulletin 47172-27-03 as 
the appropriate source of service information for additional 
instructions for accomplishing the modification of the ball nut of 
the THSA.

    (2) For THSAs having P/N 47147-2XX, 47147-3XX, or 47147-400 
(where ``XX'' represents any dash number): Modify the ball nut of 
the THSA, or replace the existing THSA with an improved part having 
P/N 47147-500; as applicable; in accordance with Airbus Service 
Bulletin A330-27-3093 (for Model A330 series airplanes), or A340-27-
4099 (for Model A340-200 and -300 series airplanes), both Revision 
01, both dated September 5, 2002; as applicable.

    Note 4: Airbus Service Bulletins A330-27-3093 and A340-27-4099 
refer to TRW Aeronautical Systems Service Bulletin 47147-27-10 as 
the appropriate source of service information for additional 
instructions for accomplishing the modification of the ball nut of 
the THSA.

Previous/Concurrent Requirements

    (h) Prior to or concurrently with accomplishment of the 
requirements of

[[Page 53020]]

paragraph (g)(2) of this AD, do all of the actions specified in the 
Accomplishment Instructions of the applicable Airbus service 
bulletins listed in Table 1 or 2 of this AD, as applicable, in 
accordance with those service bulletins.

    Note 5: Airbus Service Bulletin A330-27-3093, Revision 01, dated 
September 5, 2002, specifies that the actions in Airbus Service 
Bulletin A330-27-3052 must be accomplished previously or 
concurrently. Airbus Service Bulletin A330-27-3052, Revision 03, 
dated December 5, 2001, specifies that the actions in Airbus Service 
Bulletins A330-27-3007, A330-27-3015, A330-27-3047, A330-27-3050, 
and A330-27-3020 must be accomplished previously or concurrently.


    Note 6: Airbus Service Bulletin A340-27-4099, Revision 01, dated 
September 5, 2002, specifies that the actions in Airbus Service 
Bulletin A340-27-4059 must be accomplished previously or 
concurrently. Airbus Service Bulletin A340-27-4059, Revision 03, 
dated December 5, 2001, specifies that the actions in Airbus Service 
Bulletins A340-27-4007, A340-27-4025, A340-27-4054, A340-27-4057, 
and A340-55-4021, must be accomplished previously or concurrently.


                   Table 1.--Previous/Concurrent Requirements for Model A330 Series Airplanes
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                                               Additional source
    Airbus service bulletin       Revision level           Date              Main action           of service
                                                                                                  information
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
A330-27-3052..................  03................  December 5, 2001.  Replace THSA with a     Lucas Aerospace
                                                                        modified THSA.          Service Bulletin
                                                                                                47147-27-07.
A330-27-3007..................  01................  September 18,      Replace rudder servo    Samm Avionique
                                                     1996.              controls with           Service Bulletin
                                                                        modified parts.         SC5300-27-24-01.
A330-27-3015..................  Original..........  June 7, 1995.....  Modify the control      Lucas Aerospace
                                                                        valve detent and the    Service Bulletin
                                                                        jamming protection      47147-27-02.
                                                                        device on the THSA.
A330-27-3047..................  01................  November 26, 1997  Replace hydraulic       Lucas Aerospace
                                                                        motors on the THSA      Service Bulletin
                                                                        with new parts.         47147-27-04.
A330-27-3050..................  Original..........  November 15, 1996  Replace mechanical      Lucas Aerospace
                                                                        input shaft for THSA    Service Bulletin
                                                                        with modified part.     47147-27-05.
A330-55-3020..................  01................  October 21, 1998.  Perform a general       None.
                                                                        visual inspection of
                                                                        the THSA screw jack
                                                                        fitting assembly for
                                                                        correct installation
                                                                        of a washer; and
                                                                        correctly install
                                                                        washer as applicable.
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------


                    Table 2.--Previous/Concurrent Requirements for Model A340 Series Airplanes
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                                               Additional source
    Airbus service bulletin       Revision level           Date              Main action           of service
                                                                                                  information
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
A340-27-4059..................  03................  December 5, 2001.  Replace THSA with a     Lucas Aerospace
                                                                        modified THSA.          Service Bulletin
                                                                                                47147-27-07.
A340-27-4007..................  Original..........  April 7, 1994....  Replace hydraulic       Lucas Aerospace
                                                                        motors on the THSA      Service Bulletin
                                                                        with new parts.         47147-27-01.
A340-27-4025..................  Original..........  June 7, 1995.....  Modify the control      Lucas Aerospace
                                                                        valve detent and the    Service Bulletin
                                                                        jamming protection      47147-27-02.
                                                                        device on the THSA.
A340-27-4054..................  01................  November 26, 1997  Replace hydraulic       Lucas Aerospace
                                                                        motors on the THSA      Service Bulletin
                                                                        with new parts.         47147-27-04.
A340-27-4057..................  Original..........  November 15, 1996  Replace mechanical      Lucas Aerospace
                                                                        input shaft for THSA    Service Bulletin
                                                                        with modified part.     47147-27-05.
A340-55-4021..................  01................  October 21, 1998.  Perform a general       None.
                                                                        visual inspection of
                                                                        the THSA screw jack
                                                                        fitting assembly for
                                                                        correct installation
                                                                        of a washer; and
                                                                        correctly install
                                                                        washer as applicable.
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------


    Note 7: 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.''

Actions Accomplished Previously

    (i) Actions accomplished before the effective date of this AD in 
accordance with previous revisions of the service information 
referenced in this AD are acceptable for corresponding actions 
required by this AD as specified in paragraphs (i)(1), (i)(2), 
(i)(3), and (i)(4) of this AD.
    (1) Inspections and corrective actions accomplished in 
accordance with Airbus Service Bulletin A330-27-3088 (for Model A330 
series airplanes) or A340-27-4093 (for Model A340-200 and -300 
series airplanes), both Revision 03, both including Appendix 01, 
both dated October 19, 2001; as applicable; are acceptable for 
compliance with paragraph (c) of this AD.

[[Page 53021]]

    (2) Inspections and corrective actions accomplished in 
accordance with Airbus Service Bulletin A330-27-3102, Revision 02, 
including Appendix 01, dated November 7, 2002, or Revision 03, 
including Appendix 01, dated June 20, 2003 (for Model A330 series 
airplanes); or A340-27-4107, Revision 03, including Appendix 01, 
dated December 4, 2002 (for Model A340-200 and -300 series 
airplanes); as applicable; are acceptable for compliance with 
paragraph (e) of this AD.
    (3) Modifications accomplished in accordance with Airbus Service 
Bulletin A330-27-3085 (for Model A330 series airplanes) or A340-27-
4089 (for Model A340-313 series airplanes), both Revision 01, both 
dated January 23, 2002; as applicable; are acceptable for compliance 
with paragraph (g)(1) of this AD.
    (4) Modifications accomplished in accordance with Airbus Service 
Bulletin A330-27-3093 (for Model A330 series airplanes), or A340-27-
4099 (for Model A340-200 and -300 series airplanes), both dated June 
27, 2002; as applicable; are acceptable for compliance with 
paragraph (g)(2) of this AD.

No Reporting Required

    (j) Where Airbus Service Bulletins A330-27-3088, Revision 04, 
dated September 5, 2002; A340-27-4093, Revision 04, dated September 
5, 2002; A330-27-3102, Revision 03, dated June 20, 2003; and A340-
27-4107, Revision 04, dated June 20, 2003; describe procedures for 
completing a reporting sheet with inspection results, this AD does 
not require that action.

Alternative Methods of Compliance

    (k) In accordance with 14 CFR 39.19, the Manager, International 
Branch, ANM-116, is authorized to approve alternative methods of 
compliance for this AD.

    Note 8: The subject of this AD is addressed in French 
airworthiness directives 2002-414(B) R2 and 2002-415(B) R2, both 
dated October 30, 2002.


    Issued in Renton, Washington, on August 19, 2004.
Kalene C. Yanamura,
Acting Manager, Transport Airplane Directorate, Aircraft Certification 
Service.
[FR Doc. 04-19835 Filed 8-30-04; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE 4910-13-P