[Federal Register Volume 70, Number 60 (Wednesday, March 30, 2005)]
[Rules and Regulations]
[Pages 16104-16109]
From the Federal Register Online via the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]
[FR Doc No: 05-6111]


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DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION

Federal Aviation Administration

14 CFR Part 39

[Docket No. 2001-NM-243-AD; Amendment 39-14028; AD 2005-07-04]
RIN 2120-AA64


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

AGENCY: Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), Department of 
Transportation (DOT).

ACTION: Final rule.

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SUMMARY: This amendment supersedes an existing airworthiness directive 
(AD), applicable to the airplane models listed above. That AD currently 
requires 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. This 
amendment expands the applicability of the existing AD; and requires 
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. The actions specified 
by this 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: Effective May 4, 2005.
    The incorporation by reference of certain publications, as listed 
in the regulations, is approved by the Director of the Federal Register 
as of May 4, 2005.
    The incorporation by reference of certain other publications, as 
listed in the regulations, was approved previously by the Director of 
the Federal Register as of June 26, 2001 (66 FR 31143, June 11, 2001).

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.

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) by superseding 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, was published as a 
supplemental notice of proposed rulemaking (NPRM) in the Federal 
Register on August 31, 2004 (69 FR 53016). That action proposed to 
expand the applicability of the existing AD; and require new repetitive 
inspections for discrepancies of the ball screw assembly; corrective 
action if necessary; repetitive greasing of the trimmable horizontal 
stabilizer actuator (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.

Explanation of New Relevant Service Information

    Since the preparation of the supplemental NPRM, Airbus has issued 
Service Bulletin A330-27-3102, Revision 05, dated July 7, 2004. (The 
supplemental NPRM refers to Airbus Service Bulletin A330-27-3102, 
Revision 04, dated December 8, 2003, as the acceptable source of 
service information for accomplishing certain inspections and 
corrective actions.) Airbus issued Revision 05 to expand the 
effectivity to include Models A330-302 and -303 airplanes, and to list 
additional manufacturer's serial numbers in the service bulletin. 
Revision 05 does not contain any new procedures. Accordingly, we have 
revised paragraph (e) of this AD to refer to Revision 05 as the 
acceptable source of service information for the actions required by 
that paragraph. We have also revised paragraph (i)(2) of this AD to 
state that inspections and corrective actions accomplished previously 
in accordance with Airbus Service Bulletin A330-27-3102, Revision 04, 
are acceptable for compliance with paragraph (e). We find that 
referring to Revision 05 does not result in an expansion of the 
applicability of this AD because the applicability of the supplemental 
NPRM includes all Airbus Model A330, A340-200, and A340-300 series 
airplanes.
    The Direction G[eacute]n[eacute]rale de l'Aviation Civile (DGAC), 
which is the airworthiness authority for France,

[[Page 16105]]

classified Airbus Service Bulletin A330-27-3102, Revision 05, as 
mandatory and issued French airworthiness directive F-2002-414 R3, 
dated July 7, 2004, to ensure the continued airworthiness of these 
airplanes in France. We have revised Note 8 of this AD to refer to this 
latest revision of the French airworthiness directive.

Explanation of Editorial Change

    We have revised paragraphs (c)(3) and (f) of this AD to more 
accurately state the warning messages that may be displayed on the 
electronic centralized aircraft monitor (ECAM) associated with the 
``PITCH TRIM ACTR (1CS)'' maintenance message.

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 Remove Paragraph (f)

    One commenter requests that we revise the supplemental NPRM to 
remove paragraph (f), which requires inspecting in accordance with 
paragraph (e) of the supplemental NPRM before further flight if a ``F/
CTL PRIM X PITCH FAULT'' or ``F/CTL STAB CTL FAULT'' warning message is 
displayed on the ECAM associated with the ``PITCH TRIM ACTR (1CS).'' 
The commenter states that it has no mechanism to document compliance 
with this requirement because, if the ECAM warning is displayed in 
flight, there is no process to ensure that the pilot will record the 
warning in the airplane logbook, though this is the general practice.
    The commenter further states that the normal procedures if the 
subject ECAM message appears would lead a mechanic to the Airbus A330/
A340 Troubleshooting Manual (TSM), most likely to TSM Task 27-90-00-
810-847, ``Failure of the Pitch Trim Actuator Detected by the FCPC1 or 
FCPC2.'' The commenter explains that the first step of this task would 
be to perform an operational test of the servo loops of the trimmable 
horizontal stabilizer. If this operational test shows no discrepancy, 
no further action would be necessary. If the test confirms a 
discrepancy, the TSM specifies a detailed visual inspection of the ball 
screw assembly in accordance with Task 27-44-51-210-805 of the Airbus 
A330/A340 Airplane Maintenance Manual (AMM). The commenter feels that 
the TSM is the primary source of guidance for diagnosing system 
problems and that the procedures in the TSM would provide adequate 
guidance should a subject ECAM message appear. Thus, the commenter 
states that the requirements of paragraph (f) of the supplemental NPRM 
are not warranted. The commenter does note that there is no mechanism 
for it ``to generate the requirement to refer to the specific TSM task 
and document its compliance in every instance.''
    We do not concur that paragraph (f) of this AD is unnecessary. 
Section 121.563 (``Reporting mechanical irregularities'') of the 
Federal Aviation Regulations (FARs) (14 CFR 121.563) requires that the 
pilot ensure that all mechanical irregularities that occur during 
flight are entered into the maintenance log at the end of the flight. 
That section also requires that, before each flight, the pilot must 
determine the status of any irregularity entered in the maintenance log 
at the end of the preceding flight. A ``F/CTL PRIM X PITCH FAULT'' 
message is informational only and will remain displayed on ECAM through 
landing because there is no action that the crew can take that will 
correct the failure. Crew procedures for the ``F/CTL STAB CTL FAULT'' 
will also not correct the failure; therefore that ECAM message will 
remain displayed through landing. ECAM messages remaining after the 
flight are considered mechanical irregularities that must be entered in 
the maintenance log in accordance with 14 CFR 121.563. We have not 
changed the AD in this regard.
    However, we do concur that performing an operational test in 
accordance with TSM Task 27-90-00-810-847 would be an acceptable means 
of complying with paragraph (e) of this AD, provided that, if the 
operational test confirms a discrepancy, the detailed inspection 
required by paragraph (e) of this AD, and any necessary corrective 
actions, are done before further flight. We have revised paragraph (e) 
of this AD accordingly.

Request To Allow Alternative Method for Repetitive Inspections

    The first commenter requests that, if we decide that it is 
necessary to retain paragraph (f) of the supplemental NPRM, we refer to 
AMM Task 27-44-51-210-805 as an alternative method for doing the 
repetitive inspections. A second commenter makes the same request. The 
commenters note that the procedures in this AMM task are equivalent to 
those in Airbus Service Bulletin A330-27-3102, Revision 04, which is 
referenced in the supplemental NPRM as the appropriate source of 
service information for the necessary inspection.
    We concur. We have revised paragraph (e) of this AD to state that 
an inspection done according to Task 27-44-51-210-805 of the AMM is 
acceptable for compliance with that paragraph. (Paragraph (f) of this 
AD refers to the inspection in paragraph (e).)

Request To Clarify Terminology

    One commenter requests that we revise paragraph (d) of the 
supplemental NPRM to revise the reference to grease being expelled 
through the ``drain hole.'' The commenter notes that the lubrication 
procedures specified in Chapter 12-22-27 of the Airbus A330/A340 AMM 
identify this orifice as the ``vent hole.'' The commenter requests that 
the terminology be changed for clarification. We concur and have 
revised paragraph (d) of this AD accordingly.

Request To Revise Cost Impact Estimate

    One commenter requests that we revise the number of affected 
airplanes estimated in the Cost Impact section of the supplemental 
NPRM. The commenter notes that we estimate that 9 Model A330 series 
airplanes would be affected. The commenter operates 10 affected U.S.-
registered Model A330 series airplanes.
    We concur. Since the issuance of the original NPRM and the 
supplemental NPRM, more Model A330 series airplanes have been 
registered in the U.S. We have revised the estimated number of affected 
Model A330 series airplanes to 19.

Conclusion

    After careful review of the available data, including the comments 
noted above, the FAA has determined that air safety and the public 
interest require the adoption of the rule with the changes previously 
described. 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 19 Model A330 series airplanes of U.S. 
registry that are affected by this 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 will 
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

[[Page 16106]]

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 $1,235, 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 required by this AD 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 requirement on U.S. operators is estimated to be 
$1,235, or $65 per airplane, per inspection cycle.
    The new greasing action that is required by this AD takes 
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 requirement on U.S. operators is estimated to be 
$1,235, 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 number of work                               Estimated cost
   For airplanes listed in Airbus SB--               hours               Estimated parts cost      per 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 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.

Authority for This Rulemaking

    Title 49 of the United States Code specifies the FAA's authority to 
issue rules on aviation safety. Subtitle I, section 106, describes the 
authority of the FAA Administrator. Subtitle VII, Aviation Programs, 
describes in more detail the scope of the Agency's authority.
    We are issuing this rulemaking under the authority described in 
subtitle VII, part A, subpart III, section 44701, ``General 
requirements.'' Under that section, Congress charges the FAA with 
promoting safe flight of civil aircraft in air commerce by prescribing 
regulations for practices, methods, and procedures the Administrator 
finds necessary for safety in air commerce. This regulation is within 
the scope of that authority because it addresses an unsafe condition 
that is likely to exist or develop on products identified in this 
rulemaking action.

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

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 removing amendment 39-12252 (66 FR 
31143, June 11, 2001), and by adding a new airworthiness directive 
(AD), amendment 39-14028, to read as follows:

2005-07-04 Airbus: Amendment 39-14028. 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 16107]]

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 ``F/CTL PRIM X PITCH FAULT'' or ``F/CTL 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 Airbus A330/A340 Airplane Maintenance 
Manual (AMM) 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 vent 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 05, dated July 7, 2004 (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. A detailed 
inspection done in accordance with Task 27-44-51-210-805 of the 
Airbus A330/A340 AMM is one approved method of compliance with the 
inspection requirements of this paragraph. An operational test in 
accordance with Task 27-90-00-810-847 is another approved method for 
compliance with the inspection requirements of this paragraph, 
provided that, if the operational test confirms a discrepancy, the 
detailed inspection required by this paragraph, and applicable 
corrective actions, are done before further flight.
    (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 ``F/CTL PRIM X PITCH FAULT'' or ``F/CTL 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, 
dated October 24, 2001, 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

[[Page 16108]]

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, 
dated June 27, 2002, 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 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 A330-55-3020 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
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
A330-27-3007.............  01.......................  September 18, 1996  Replace rudder      Samm Avionique
                                                                           servo controls      Service Bulletin
                                                                           with modified       SC5300-27-24-01,
                                                                           parts.              dated April 15,
                                                                                               1994.
A330-27-3015.............  Original.................  June 7, 1995......  Modify the control  Lucas Aerospace
                                                                           valve detent and    Service Bulletin
                                                                           the jamming         47147-27-02,
                                                                           protection device   Revision 1, dated
                                                                           on the THSA.        January 31, 1996.
A330-27-3047.............  01.......................  November 26, 1997.  Replace hydraulic   Lucas Aerospace
                                                                           motors on the       Service Bulletin
                                                                           THSA with new       47147-27-04,
                                                                           parts.              Revision 1, dated
                                                                                               June 20, 1997.
A330-27-3050.............  Original.................  November 15, 1996.  Replace mechanical  Lucas Aerospace
                                                                           input shaft for     Service Bulletin
                                                                           THSA with           47147-27-05,
                                                                           modified part.      dated November 8,
                                                                                               1996.
A330-27-3052.............  03.......................  December 5, 2001..  Replace THSA with   Lucas Aerospace
                                                                           a modified THSA.    Service Bulletin
                                                                                               47147-27-07,
                                                                                               dated May 4,
                                                                                               1998.
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
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
A340-27-4007.............  Original.................  April 7, 1994.....  Replace hydraulic   Lucas Aerospace
                                                                           motors on the       Service Bulletin
                                                                           THSA with new       47147-27-01,
                                                                           parts.              dated May 4,
                                                                                               1998.
A340-27-4025.............  Original.................  June 7, 1995......  Modify the control  Lucas Aerospace
                                                                           valve detent and    Service Bulletin
                                                                           the jamming         47147-27-02,
                                                                           protection device   Revision 1, dated
                                                                           on the THSA.        January 31, 1996.
A340-27-4054.............  01.......................  November 26, 1997.  Replace hydraulic   Lucas Aerospace
                                                                           motors on the       Service Bulletin
                                                                           THSA with new       47147-27-04,
                                                                           parts.              Revision 1, dated
                                                                                               June 20, 1997.
A340-27-4057.............  Original.................  November 15, 1996.  Replace mechanical  Lucas Aerospace
                                                                           input shaft for     Service Bulletin
                                                                           THSA with           47147-27-05,
                                                                           modified part.      dated November 8,
                                                                                               1996.
A340-27-4059.............  03.......................  December 5, 2001..  Replace THSA with   Lucas Aerospace
                                                                           a modified THSA.    Service Bulletin
                                                                                               47147-27-07,
                                                                                               dated May 4,
                                                                                               1998.
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

[[Page 16109]]

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 excluding Appendix 01, 
both dated October 19, 2001; as applicable; are acceptable for 
compliance with paragraph (c) of this AD.
    (2) Inspections and corrective actions accomplished in 
accordance with Airbus Service Bulletin A330-27-3102, Revision 02, 
excluding Appendix 01, dated November 7, 2002, Revision 03, 
excluding Appendix 01, dated June 20, 2003, or Revision 04, dated 
December 8, 2003 (for Model A330 series airplanes); or A340-27-4107, 
Revision 03, excluding 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 05, dated July 7, 2004; 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.

Incorporation by Reference

    (l) Unless otherwise specified in this AD, the actions shall be 
done in accordance with Airbus All Operators Telex A330-27A3088, 
dated April 5, 2001; Airbus All Operators Telex A340-27A4093, dated 
April 5, 2001; or the Airbus service bulletins listed in Table 3 of 
this AD; as applicable.

                          Table 3.--Airbus Service Bulletins Incorporated by Reference
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
          Service bulletin                        Revision                                Date
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
A330-27-3007........................  01..............................  September 18, 1996.
A330-27-3015........................  Original........................  June 7, 1995.
A330-27-3047........................  01..............................  November 26, 1997.
A330-27-3050........................  Original........................  November 15, 1996.
A330-27-3052........................  03..............................  December 5, 2001.
A330-27-3085........................  02..............................  September 5, 2002.
A330-27-3088, excluding Appendix 01.  04..............................  September 5, 2002.
A330-27-3093........................  01..............................  September 5, 2002.
A330-27-3102, excluding Appendix 01.  05..............................  July 7, 2004.
A330-55-3020........................  01..............................  October 21, 1998.
A340-27-4007........................  Original........................  April 7, 1994.
A340-27-4025........................  Original........................  June 7, 1995.
A340-27-4054........................  01..............................  November 26, 1997.
A340-27-4057........................  Original........................  November 15, 1996.
A340-27-4059........................  03..............................  December 5, 2001.
A340-27-4089........................  02..............................  September 5, 2002.
A340-27-4093, excluding Appendix 01.  04..............................  September 5, 2002.
A340-27-4099........................  01..............................  September 5, 2002.
A340-27-4107, excluding Appendix 01.  04..............................  June 20, 2003.
A340-55-4021........................  01..............................  October 21, 1998.
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

    Airbus Service Bulletin A330-27-3007, Revision 01, contains the 
following effective pages:

------------------------------------------------------------------------
                         Revision level shown
       Page No.               on the page        Date shown on the page
------------------------------------------------------------------------
1, 7..................  01....................  September 18, 1996.
2-6...................  Original..............  October 5, 1994.
------------------------------------------------------------------------

    (1) The incorporation by reference of the Airbus Service 
Bulletins in Table 3 of this AD is approved by the Director of the 
Federal Register in accordance with 5 U.S.C. 552(a) and 1 CFR part 
51.
    (2) The incorporation by reference of Airbus All Operators Telex 
A330-27A3088, dated April 5, 2001; and Airbus All Operators Telex 
A340-27A4093, dated April 5, 2001; was approved previously by the 
Director of the Federal Register as of June 26, 2001 (66 FR 31143, 
June 11, 2001).
    (3) To get copies of this service information, go to Airbus, 1 
Rond Point Maurice Bellonte, 31707 Blagnac Cedex, France. To inspect 
copies of this service information, go to the FAA, Transport 
Airplane Directorate, 1601 Lind Avenue, SW., Renton, Washington; or 
to the National Archives and Records Administration (NARA). For 
information on the availability of this material at the NARA, call 
(202) 741-6030, or go to http://www.archives.gov/federal_register/code_of_federal_regulations/ibr_locations.html.

    Note 8: The subject of this AD is addressed in French 
airworthiness directives F-2002-414 R3, dated July 7, 2004, and 
2002-415(B) R2, dated October 30, 2002.

Effective Date

    (m) This amendment becomes effective on May 4, 2005.

    Issued in Renton, Washington, on March 17, 2005.
Jeffrey E. Duven,
Acting Manager, Transport Airplane Directorate, Aircraft Certification 
Service.
[FR Doc. 05-6111 Filed 3-29-05; 8:45 am]
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