[Federal Register Volume 76, Number 175 (Friday, September 9, 2011)]
[Rules and Regulations]
[Pages 55785-55788]
From the Federal Register Online via the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]
[FR Doc No: 2011-22277]
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DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION
Federal Aviation Administration
14 CFR Part 39
[Docket No. FAA-2011-0471; Directorate Identifier 2010-NM-219-AD;
Amendment 39-16800; AD 2011-18-18]
RIN 2120-AA64
Airworthiness Directives; Bombardier, Inc. Model DHC-8-400 Series
Airplanes
AGENCY: Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), Department of
Transportation (DOT).
ACTION: Final rule.
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SUMMARY: We are adopting a new airworthiness directive (AD) for the
products listed above. This AD results from mandatory continuing
airworthiness information (MCAI) originated by an aviation authority of
another country to identify and correct an unsafe condition on an
aviation product. The MCAI describes the unsafe condition as:
Several operators have reported pitch oscillations and/or
elevator asymmetry caution lights illumination when flying with the
autopilot engaged. Investigations revealed that loose rivets in the
torque tube assemblies caused relative motion between the crank arms
and torque tubes.
Loose rivets could result in excessive wear and subsequent
significant backlash in the driving crank arms. This condition, if
left uncorrected, will progressively get worse and degrade the
controllability of the aeroplane.
We are issuing this AD to require actions to correct the unsafe
condition on these products.
DATES: This AD becomes effective October 14, 2011.
The Director of the Federal Register approved the incorporation by
reference of a certain publication listed in this AD as of October 14,
2011.
ADDRESSES: You may examine the AD docket on the Internet at http://www.regulations.gov or in person at the U.S. Department of
Transportation, Docket Operations, M-30, West Building Ground Floor,
Room W12-140, 1200 New Jersey Avenue, SE., Washington, DC.
FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Stephen Kowalski, Aerospace Engineer,
Airframe and Mechanical Systems Branch, ANE-171, FAA, New York Aircraft
Certification Office, 1600 Stewart Avenue, Suite 410, Westbury, New
York 11590; telephone (516) 228-7327; fax (516) 794-5531.
SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION:
Discussion
We issued a notice of proposed rulemaking (NPRM) to amend 14 CFR
part 39 to include an AD that would apply to the specified products.
That NPRM was published in the Federal Register on May 12, 2011 (76 FR
27617). That NPRM proposed to correct an unsafe condition for the
specified products. The MCAI states:
Several operators have reported pitch oscillations and/or
elevator asymmetry caution lights illumination when flying with the
autopilot engaged. Investigations revealed that loose rivets in the
torque tube assemblies caused relative motion between the crank arms
and torque tubes.
Loose rivets could result in excessive wear and subsequent
significant backlash in the driving crank arms. This condition, if
left
[[Page 55786]]
uncorrected, will progressively get worse and degrade the
controllability of the aeroplane.
Required actions include doing an inspection for the part number of the
left and right elevator torque tube assemblies and, if necessary,
replacing the elevator torque tube assembly or replacing the elevator
torque tube rivets, and re-identifying the assemblies. You may obtain
further information by examining the MCAI in the AD docket.
Comments
We gave the public the opportunity to participate in developing
this AD. We received no comments on the NPRM (76 FR 27617, May 12,
2011) or on the determination of the cost to the public.
Revised Service Information
Bombardier Service Bulletin 84-27-50, Revision `D,' dated September
22, 2010, has been issued for clarification, but adds no new actions.
We have updated the references in paragraphs (g), (h), (i), and (m) of
this AD to include Bombardier Service Bulletin 84-27-50, Revision `D,'
dated September 22, 2010. We have also updated Table 1 of this AD to
allow credit for Bombardier Service Bulletin 84-27-50, Revision `C,'
dated July 26, 2010.
Conclusion
We reviewed the relevant data, and determined that air safety and
the public interest require adopting the AD with the changes described
previously. We also determined that these changes will not increase the
economic burden on any operator or increase the scope of the AD.
Differences Between This AD and the MCAI or Service Information
We have reviewed the MCAI and related service information and, in
general, agree with their substance. But we might have found it
necessary to use different words from those in the MCAI to ensure the
AD is clear for U.S. operators and is enforceable. In making these
changes, we do not intend to differ substantively from the information
provided in the MCAI and related service information.
We might also have required different actions in this AD from those
in the MCAI in order to follow our FAA policies. Any such differences
are highlighted in a NOTE within the AD.
Costs of Compliance
We estimate that this AD will affect 66 products of U.S. registry.
We also estimate the following costs to comply with this AD.
Estimated Costs
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Cost per Cost on U.S.
Action Labor cost Parts cost product operators
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Inspection..................... 2 x $85 per hour = $170 None.................. $170 $11,220
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We estimate the following costs to do any necessary replacements
that would be required based on the results of the required inspection.
We have no way of determining the number of aircraft that might need
these replacements:
On-Condition Costs
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Cost per
Action Labor cost Parts cost product
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Replace left torque tube...................... 15 work-hours x $85 per hour = $4,354 $5,629
$1,275.
Replace right torque tube..................... 15 work-hours x $85 per hour = 5,913 7,188
$1,275.
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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 Findings
We determined that this AD will not have federalism implications
under Executive Order 13132. This AD 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.
For the reasons discussed above, I certify this AD:
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. 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.
We prepared a regulatory evaluation of the estimated costs to
comply with this AD and placed it in the AD docket.
Examining the AD Docket
You may examine the AD docket on the Internet at http://www.regulations.gov; or in person at the Docket Operations office
between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m., Monday through Friday, except Federal
holidays. The AD docket contains the NPRM, the regulatory evaluation,
any comments received, and other information. The street address for
the Docket Operations office (telephone (800) 647-5527) is in the
ADDRESSES section. Comments will be available in the AD docket shortly
after receipt.
List of Subjects in 14 CFR Part 39
Air transportation, Aircraft, Aviation safety, Incorporation by
reference, Safety.
Adoption of the Amendment
Accordingly, under the authority delegated to me by the
Administrator, the FAA amends 14 CFR part 39 as follows:
[[Page 55787]]
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. The FAA amends Sec. 39.13 by adding the following new AD:
2011-18-18 Bombardier, Inc.: Amendment 39-16800. Docket No. FAA-
2011-0471; Directorate Identifier 2010-NM-219-AD.
Effective Date
(a) This airworthiness directive (AD) becomes effective October
14, 2011.
Affected ADs
(b) None.
Applicability
(c) This AD applies to Bombardier, Inc. Model DHC-8-400, -401,
and -402 airplanes; certificated in any category; serial numbers
4001 through 4305 inclusive.
Subject
(d) Air Transport Association (ATA) of America Code 27: Flight
controls.
Reason
(e) The mandatory continuing airworthiness information (MCAI)
states:
Several operators have reported pitch oscillations and/or
elevator asymmetry caution lights illumination when flying with the
autopilot engaged. Investigations revealed that loose rivets in the
torque tube assemblies caused relative motion between the crank arms
and torque tubes.
Loose rivets could result in excessive wear and subsequent
significant backlash in the driving crank arms. This condition, if
left uncorrected, will progressively get worse and degrade the
controllability of the aeroplane.
Compliance
(f) You are responsible for having the actions required by this
AD performed within the compliance times specified, unless the
actions have already been done.
Inspection for Part Number
(g) At the applicable times identified in paragraphs (g)(1) and
(g)(2) of this AD, do an inspection to determine the part numbers of
the left and right elevator torque tubes, in accordance with the
Accomplishment Instructions of Bombardier Service Bulletin 84-27-50,
Revision `D,' dated September 22, 2010. A review of airplane
maintenance records is acceptable in lieu of this inspection if the
part numbers of the left and right elevator torque tubes can be
conclusively determined from that review.
(1) For airplanes that have accumulated 8,000 or more total
flight hours as of the effective date of this AD: Within 2,000
flight hours after the effective date of this AD.
(2) For airplanes that have accumulated less than 8,000 total
flight hours as of the effective date of this AD: Within 6,000
flight hours after the effective date of this AD, but before the
accumulation of 10,000 total flight hours.
Corrective Actions
(h) If, as a result of the inspection required by paragraph (g)
of this AD, any left elevator torque tube has part number (P/N)
82760709-009, at the applicable time in paragraph (g)(1) or (g)(2)
of this AD, do the actions in paragraph (h)(1) or (h)(2) of this AD.
(1) Replace the elevator torque tube with a new elevator torque
tube having P/N 82760709-011, in accordance with the Accomplishment
Instructions of Bombardier Service Bulletin 84-27-50, Revision `D,'
dated September 22, 2010.
(2) Replace the rivets in each elevator torque tube assembly
with Hi Lite pins having P/N B0206001AG8 and collars having P/N
HST1070CY, and re-identify the elevator torque tube assembly having
P/N 82760709-009, in accordance with the Accomplishment Instructions
of Bombardier Service Bulletin 84-27-50, Revision `D,' dated
September 22, 2010.
(i) If, as a result of the inspection required by paragraph (g)
of this AD, any right elevator torque tube has P/N 82760757-009, at
the applicable time in paragraph (g)(1) or (g)(2) of this AD, do the
actions in paragraph (i)(1) or (i)(2) of this AD.
(1) Replace the elevator torque tube with a new elevator torque
tube having P/N 82760757-011, in accordance with the Accomplishment
Instructions of Bombardier Service Bulletin 84-27-50, Revision `D,'
dated September 22, 2010.
(2) Replace the rivets in each elevator torque tube assembly
with Hi Lite pins having P/N B0206001AG8 and collars having P/N
HST1070CY, and re-identify the elevator torque tube assembly having
P/N 82760757-009, in accordance with the Accomplishment Instructions
of Bombardier Service Bulletin 84-27-50, Revision `D,' dated
September 22, 2010.
Credit for Actions Accomplished in Accordance With Previous Service
Information
(j) Actions done before the effective date of this AD, in
accordance with the service bulletins listed in table 1 of this AD,
are considered acceptable for compliance with the corresponding
action specified in this AD.
Table 1--Credit Service Bulletins
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Service Bulletin Revision Date
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Bombardier Service Bulletin 84- Original......... March 3, 2010.
27-50.
Bombardier Service Bulletin 84- A................ April 28, 2010.
27-50.
Bombardier Service Bulletin 84- B................ May 19, 2010.
27-50.
Bombardier Service Bulletin 84- C................ July 26, 2010.
27-50.
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Parts Installation
(k) As of the effective date of this AD, no person may install
on any airplane an elevator torque tube assembly having P/N
82760709-009 or 82760757-009.
FAA AD Differences
Note 1: This AD differs from the MCAI and/or service
information as follows: No differences.
Other FAA AD Provisions
(l) The following provisions also apply to this AD:
(1) Alternative Methods of Compliance (AMOCs): The Manager, New
York Aircraft Certification Office (ACO), ANE-170, FAA, has the
authority to approve AMOCs for this AD, if requested using the
procedures found in 14 CFR 39.19. In accordance with 14 CFR 39.19,
send your request to your principal inspector or local Flight
Standards District Office, as appropriate. If sending information
directly to the ACO, send it to ATTN: Program Manager, Continuing
Operational Safety, FAA, New York ACO, 1600 Stewart Avenue, Suite
410, Westbury, New York 11590; telephone 516-228-7300; fax 516-794-
5531. Before using any approved AMOC, notify your appropriate
principal inspector, or lacking a principal inspector, the manager
of the local flight standards district office/certificate holding
district office. The AMOC approval letter must specifically
reference this AD.
(2) Airworthy Product: For any requirement in this AD to obtain
corrective actions from a manufacturer or other source, use these
actions if they are FAA-approved. Corrective actions are considered
FAA-approved if they are approved by the State of Design Authority
(or their delegated agent). You are required to assure the product
is airworthy before it is returned to service.
Related Information
(m) Refer to MCAI Canadian Airworthiness Directive CF-2010-27,
dated August 20, 2010; and Bombardier Service Bulletin 84-27-50,
Revision `D,' dated September 22, 2010; for related information.
Material Incorporated by Reference
(n) You must use Bombardier Service Bulletin 84-27-50, Revision
`D,' dated September 22, 2010, to do the actions required by this
AD, unless the AD specifies otherwise.
(1) The Director of the Federal Register approved the
incorporation by reference of this service information under 5
U.S.C. 552(a) and 1 CFR part 51.
[[Page 55788]]
(2) For service information identified in this AD, contact
Bombardier, Inc., Q-Series Technical Help Desk, 123 Garratt
Boulevard, Toronto, Ontario M3K 1Y5, Canada; telephone 416-375-4000;
fax 416-375-4539; e-mail [email protected]; Internet
http://www.bombardier.com.
(3) You may review copies of the service information at the FAA,
Transport Airplane Directorate, 1601 Lind Avenue, SW., Renton,
Washington. For information on the availability of this material at
the FAA, call 425-227-1221.
(4) You may also review copies of the service information that
is incorporated by reference 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.
Issued in Renton, Washington, on August 23, 2011.
Ali Bahrami,
Manager, Transport Airplane Directorate, Aircraft Certification
Service.
[FR Doc. 2011-22277 Filed 9-8-11; 8:45 am]
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