[Federal Register Volume 69, Number 197 (Wednesday, October 13, 2004)]
[Rules and Regulations]
[Pages 60799-60801]
From the Federal Register Online via the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]
[FR Doc No: 04-22470]



[[Page 60799]]

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DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION

Federal Aviation Administration

14 CFR Part 39

[Docket No. 2003-NM-13-AD; Amendment 39-13817; AD 2004-20-12]
RIN 2120-AA64


Airworthiness Directives; Airbus Model A300 B2 and B4 Series 
Airplanes; Model A300 B4-600, A300 B4-600R, A300 F4-600R Series 
Airplanes, and A300 C4-605R Variant F Airplanes (Collectively Called 
A300-600); and Model A310 Series Airplanes

AGENCY: Federal Aviation Administration, DOT.

ACTION: Final rule.

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SUMMARY: This amendment adopts a new airworthiness directive (AD), 
applicable to all Airbus Model A300 B2 and B4 series airplanes; Model 
A300 B4-600, A300 B4-600R, A300 F4-600R series airplanes, and A300 C4-
605R Variant F airplanes (collectively called A300-600); and Model A310 
series airplanes. This amendment requires a detailed inspection of 
certain pulleys and control cables in the rear fuselage for corrosion 
and damage; and corrective action, if necessary. This action is 
necessary to detect and correct frayed or corroded control cables for 
the elevator and rudder, which could result in a ruptured control 
cable, and possible reduced controllability of the airplane. This 
action is intended to address the identified unsafe condition.

DATES: Effective November 17, 2004.
    The incorporation by reference of certain publications listed in 
the regulations is approved by the Director of the Federal Register as 
of November 17, 2004.

ADDRESSES: The service information referenced in this AD may be 
obtained from Airbus, 1 Rond Point Maurice Bellonte, 31707 Blagnac 
Cedex, France. This information may be examined at the Federal Aviation 
Administration (FAA), Transport Airplane Directorate, Rules Docket, 
1601 Lind Avenue, SW., Renton, Washington; or at the National Archives 
and Records Administration (NARA). For information on the availability 
of this material at NARA, call (202) 741-6030, or go to: http://www.archives.gov/federal_register/code_of_federal_regulations/ibr_locations.html.

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: A proposal to amend part 39 of the Federal 
Aviation Regulations (14 CFR part 39) to include an airworthiness 
directive (AD) that is applicable to all Airbus Model A300 B2 and A300 
B4; Model A300 B4-600, B4-600R, C4-605R Variant F, and F4-600R 
(collectively called A300-600); and Model A310 series airplanes; was 
published in the Federal Register on May 7, 2004 (69 FR 25511). That 
action proposed to require a detailed inspection of certain pulleys and 
control cables in the rear fuselage for corrosion and damage; and 
corrective action, if necessary.

Comments

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

Request To Give Credit for Actions Done Previously

    One commenter requests that we revise the proposed AD to give 
credit for actions done previously according to the original issue of 
Airbus Service Bulletin A300-27A0197, including Appendix 01, dated 
August 8, 2002. (The proposed AD refers to Airbus Service Bulletin 
A300-27A0197, Revision 01, including Appendix 01, dated February 26, 
2003; as the appropriate source of service information for doing the 
proposed actions on Model A300 B2 and A300 B4 series airplanes.) The 
commenter notes that the Accomplishment Instructions in Revision 01 of 
the service bulletin are unchanged from those in the original issue of 
the service bulletin.
    We concur. We have reviewed the original issue of Airbus Service 
Bulletin A300-27A0197 and concur that the Accomplishment Instructions 
are the same as those in Revision 01. We have added a new paragraph (c) 
to this final rule (and re-identified subsequent paragraphs 
accordingly) to give credit for actions done per the original issue of 
Airbus Service Bulletin A300-27A0197.

Explanation of Additional Change

    We have revised the applicability statement of this final rule to 
identify model designations as published in the most recent type 
certificate data sheet for the affected models.

Conclusion

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

Interim Action

    We consider this AD interim action. If final action is later 
identified, we may consider further rulemaking then.

Cost Impact

    We estimate that 174 airplanes of U.S. registry will be affected by 
this AD, and that it will take approximately 1 work hour per airplane 
to accomplish the required inspection. The average labor rate is $65 
per work hour. Based on these figures, the cost impact of this AD on 
U.S. operators is estimated to be $11,310, or $65 per airplane.
    The cost impact figure discussed above is 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.

[[Page 60800]]

List of Subjects in 14 CFR Part 39

    Air transportation, Aircraft, Aviation safety, Incorporation by 
reference, Safety.

Adoption of the Amendment

0
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

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

2004-20-12 Airbus: Amendment 39-13817. Docket 2003-NM-13-AD.

    Applicability: All Model A300 B2 and B4 series airplanes; Model 
A300 B4-600, A300 B4-600R, A300 F4-600R series airplanes, and A300 
C4-605R Variant F airplanes (collectively called A300-600); and 
Model A310 series airplanes; certificated in any category.
    Compliance: Required as indicated, unless accomplished 
previously.
    To detect and correct frayed or corroded control cables for the 
elevator and rudder, which could result in a ruptured control cable, 
and possible reduced controllability of the airplane, accomplish the 
following:

Definitions

    (a) The term ``service bulletin,'' as used in this AD, means the 
Accomplishment Instructions of the following service bulletins, as 
applicable:
    (1) For Model A300 B2 and A300 B4 series airplanes: Airbus 
Service Bulletin A300-27A0197, Revision 01, including Appendix 01, 
dated February 26, 2003;
    (2) For Model A300 B4-600, A300 B4-600R, A300 F4-600R series 
airplanes; and A300 C4-605R Variant F airplanes (collectively called 
A300-600): Airbus Service Bulletin A300-27A6051, including Appendix 
01, dated August 8, 2002; and
    (3) For Model A310 series airplanes: Airbus Service Bulletin 
A310-27A2098, including Appendix 01, dated August 8, 2002.
    (b) In this AD, the phrase ``date of airworthiness 
certification'' means the date of issuance of the original 
Airworthiness Certificate or the original Export Certificate of 
Airworthiness, whichever occurs first.
    (c) For Model A300 B2 and A300 B4 series airplanes: Actions 
accomplished before the effective date of this AD according to 
Airbus Service Bulletin A300-27A0197, including Appendix 01, dated 
August 8, 2002; are acceptable for compliance with the corresponding 
actions required by this AD.

Inspection and Corrective Action

    (d) At the applicable time in paragraph (d)(1), (d)(2), (d)(3), 
or (d)(4) of this AD, do a detailed inspection for corrosion and 
damage (e.g., frayed or broken wires) of the pulleys and cables of 
the rudder, elevator, trimmable horizontal stabilizer, and rudder 
trim control located at the rear of the fuselage; including any 
applicable testing and lubrication following the inspection. If any 
corrosion or damage is found that is outside the limits specified in 
the service bulletin, prior to further flight, replace the affected 
cable with a new cable; including any applicable testing and 
lubrication following the replacement. Accomplish all the actions in 
accordance with the applicable service bulletin.
    (1) For airplanes that have accumulated, as of the effective 
date of this AD, less than 20,000 total flight hours and less than 
10 years since the date of airworthiness certification: Inspect at 
the later of the times specified in paragraphs (d)(1)(i) and 
(d)(1)(ii) of this AD.
    (i) Prior to the accumulation of 20,000 total flight hours, or 
within 10 years since the date of airworthiness certification, 
whichever occurs earliest.
    (ii) Within 1,800 flight hours after the effective date of this 
AD.
    (2) For airplanes that have accumulated, as of the effective 
date of this AD, either 20,000 or more total flight hours or more 
than 10 years since the date of airworthiness certification, but 
less than 25,000 total flight hours and 13 years since the date of 
airworthiness certification: Inspect at the later of the times 
specified in paragraphs (d)(2)(i) and (d)(2)(ii) of this AD.
    (i) Prior to the accumulation of 25,000 total flight hours, or 
within 13 years since the date of airworthiness certification, 
whichever occurs earliest.
    (ii) Within 1,800 flight hours after the effective date of this 
AD.
    (3) For airplanes that have accumulated, as of the effective 
date of this AD, either 25,000 or more total flight hours or more 
than 13 years since the date of airworthiness certification, but 
less than 30,000 total flight hours and 16 years since the date of 
airworthiness certification: Inspect at the later of the times 
specified in paragraphs (d)(3)(i) and (d)(3)(ii) of this AD.
    (i) Prior to the accumulation of 30,000 total flight hours, or 
within 16 years since the date of airworthiness certification, 
whichever occurs earliest.
    (ii) Within 1,200 flight hours after the effective date of this 
AD.
    (4) For airplanes that have accumulated, as of the effective 
date of this AD, either 30,000 or more total flight hours or more 
than 16 years since the date of airworthiness certification: Inspect 
within 600 flight hours after the effective date of this AD.

    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.''

Reporting

    (e) Submit a report of the findings (both positive and negative) 
of the inspection required by paragraph (d) of this AD to Airbus, 
Customer Services Directorate, 1 Rond Point Maurice Bellonte, 31707 
Blagnac Cedex, France; Attn: AI/SE-D32 Technical Data and 
Documentation Services, or fax: (+33) 5 61 93 28 06. Send the report 
at the applicable time specified in paragraph (e)(1) or (e)(2) of 
this AD. The Inspection Record Sheet in Appendix 01 of the 
applicable service bulletin may be used. Include the inspection 
results, a description of any discrepancy found, the airplane serial 
number, the number of landings and flight hours on the airplane, the 
service bulletin number, and the date of inspection. Under the 
provisions of the Paperwork Reduction Act of 1980 (44 U.S.C. 3501 et 
seq.), the Office of Management and Budget (OMB) has approved the 
information collection requirements contained in this AD and has 
assigned OMB Control Number 2120-0056.
    (1) If the inspection is done after the effective date of this 
AD: Submit the report within 60 days after the inspection.
    (2) If the inspection was done prior to the effective date of 
this AD: Submit the report within 60 days after the effective date 
of this AD.

Alternative Methods of Compliance

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

Incorporation by Reference

    (g) Unless otherwise specified in this AD, the actions must be 
done in accordance with Airbus Service Bulletin A300-27A0197, 
Revision 01, including Appendix 01, dated February 26, 2003; Airbus 
Service Bulletin A300-27A6051, including Appendix 01, dated August 
8, 2002; and Airbus Service Bulletin A310-27A2098, including 
Appendix 01, dated August 8, 2002; as applicable. 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 Airbus, 1 Rond Point Maurice Bellonte, 31707 Blagnac 
Cedex, France. Copies may be inspected at the FAA, Transport 
Airplane Directorate, 1601 Lind Avenue, SW., Renton, Washington; or 
at the National Archives and Records Administration (NARA). For 
information on the availability of this material at NARA, call (202) 
741-6030, or go to: http://www.archives.gov/federal_register/code_of_federal_regulations/ibr_locations.html.

    Note 2: The subject of this AD is addressed in French 
airworthiness directive 2002-608(B) R1, dated January 8, 2003.

Effective Date

    (h) This amendment becomes effective on November 17, 2004.


[[Page 60801]]


    Issued in Renton, Washington, on September 29, 2004.
Kalene C. Yanamura,
Acting Manager, Transport Airplane Directorate, Aircraft Certification 
Service.
[FR Doc. 04-22470 Filed 10-12-04; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE 4910-13-P