[Federal Register Volume 76, Number 197 (Wednesday, October 12, 2011)]
[Rules and Regulations]
[Pages 63177-63183]
From the Federal Register Online via the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]
[FR Doc No: 2011-25617]


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DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION

Federal Aviation Administration

14 CFR Part 39

[Docket No. FAA-2011-0389; Directorate Identifier 2007-NM-189-AD; 
Amendment 39-16769; AD 2011-17-05]
RIN 2120-AA64


Airworthiness Directives; Airbus Model A300 B2-1C, A300 B2-203, 
A300 B2K-3C, A300-B4-103, A300 B4-203, and A300 B4-2C Airplanes

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

ACTION: Final rule.

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

SUMMARY: We are superseding an existing airworthiness directive (AD) 
that applies to 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:

* * * [C]racks * * * in sections 13 to 18 of the fuselage between 
rivets of longitudinal lap joints between frames 18 and 80 which 
could affect the structural integrity of the fuselage if not 
corrected.
* * * * *
    We are issuing this AD to require actions to correct the unsafe 
condition on these products.

DATES: This AD becomes effective November 16, 2011.
    The Director of the Federal Register approved the incorporation by 
reference of certain publications listed in this AD as of November 16, 
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: Dan Rodina, Aerospace Engineer, 
International Branch, ANM-116, Transport Airplane Directorate, FAA, 
1601 Lind Avenue, SW., Renton, Washington 98057-3356; telephone (425) 
227-2125; fax (425) 227-1149.

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 10, 2011 (76 FR 
26962), and proposed to supersede AD 90-01-10, Amendment 39-6448 (55 FR 
261, January 4, 1990). That NPRM proposed to correct an unsafe 
condition for the specified products. The MCAI states:

    This Airworthiness Directive (AD) is issued in order to prevent 
cracks development in sections 13 to 18 of the fuselage between 
rivets of longitudinal lap joints between frames 18 and 80 which 
could affect the structural integrity of the fuselage if not 
corrected.
    This new AD:

--Retains the requirements of DGAC AD 1989-061-092(B)R4 [which 
corresponds to FAA AD 90-01-10 (55 FR 261, January 4, 1990)], which 
is cancelled;
--Takes into account a new inspection program as detailed in AIRBUS 
Service Bulletins (SB) A300-53-0211 Revision 7, which will allow 
A300 aircraft to reach the Limit of Validity (LOV).

    This AD has been republished to correctly refer to SB A300-53-
0211 in Note 2 of the Compliance section.

    The inspection program consists of repetitive detailed inspections 
for disbonding and cracking of the fuselage inner doubler; eddy current 
and ultrasonic inspections of the fuselage longitudinal lap joints for 
cracking; and repair if necessary (i.e., repairing any cracking or 
disbonding, or contacting Airbus for repair instructions and doing the 
repair). 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 26962, May 10, 
2011) or on the determination of the cost to the public.

Clarification of Service Bulletin References

    Paragraphs (h)(1) and (j)(1) of the NPRM (76 FR 26962, May 10, 
2011) refer to Airbus Mandatory Service Bulletin A300-53-0211 as the 
service information for airplanes on which an inspection of the 
longitudinal lap joints has been done. For clarity, we have revised the 
paragraphs to refer to the latest service bulletin revision and, 
therefore, we have revised paragraphs (h)(1) and (j)(1) of this AD to 
refer to Airbus Mandatory Service Bulletin A300-53-0211, Revision 07, 
dated December 1, 2006.
    Paragraphs (l)(1), (1)(2), (m)(1), (m)(2), (n)(1), (n)(2), (o)(1), 
and (o)(2) of the NPRM (76 FR 26962, May 10, 2011) refer to Airbus 
Service Bulletin A300-53-229 for the definition of ``major'' and 
``minor'' disbonding. For clarity, we have revised the paragraphs to 
refer to the latest service bulletin revision and, therefore, we have 
revised paragraphs (l)(1), (1)(2), (m)(1), (m)(2), (n)(1), (n)(2), 
(o)(1), and (o)(2) of this AD to refer to Airbus Service Bulletin A300-
53-229, Revision 5, dated April 8, 1997.

Conclusion

    We reviewed the available data and determined that air safety and 
the public interest require adopting the AD with the changes described 
previously. We determined that these changes will not increase the 
economic burden on any operator or increase the scope of the AD.

[[Page 63178]]

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 about 5 products of U.S. 
registry.
    We estimate that it will take about 3,735 work-hours per product to 
comply with the new basic requirements of this AD. The average labor 
rate is $85 per work-hour. Based on these figures, we estimate the cost 
of the AD on U.S. operators to be $1,587,375, or $317,475 per product.

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 (76 FR 26962, May 10, 2011), 
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:

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 removing Amendment 39-6448 (55 FR 261, 
January 4, 1990) and adding the following new AD:

2011-17-05 Airbus: Amendment 39-16769. Docket No. FAA-2011-0389; 
Directorate Identifier 2007-NM-189-AD.

Effective Date

    (a) This airworthiness directive (AD) becomes effective November 
16, 2011.

Affected ADs

    (b) This AD supersedes AD 90-01-10, Amendment 39-6448 (55 FR 
261, January 4, 1990).

Applicability

    (c) This AD applies to Airbus Model A300 B2-1C, A300 B2-203, 
A300 B2K-3C, A300-B4-103, A300 B4-203, and A300 B4-2C airplanes; 
certificated in any category; serial numbers 0003 through 0156 
inclusive.

Subject

    (d) Air Transport Association (ATA) of America Code 53: 
Fuselage.

Reason

    (e) The mandatory continuing airworthiness information (MCAI) 
states:
    This Airworthiness Directive (AD) is issued in order to prevent 
cracks development in sections 13 to 18 of the fuselage between 
rivets of longitudinal lap joints between frames 18 and 80 which 
could affect the structural integrity of the fuselage if not 
corrected.
    This new AD:

--Retains the requirements of DGAC AD 1989-061-092(B)R4 [which 
corresponds to FAA AD 90-10-10 (55 FR 261, January 4, 1990)], which 
is cancelled;
--Takes into account a new inspection program as detailed in AIRBUS 
Service Bulletins (SB) A300-53-0211 Revision 7, which will allow 
A300 aircraft to reach the Limit of Validity (LOV).

    This AD has been republished to correctly refer to SB A300-53-
0211 in Note 2 of the Compliance section.
    The inspection program consists of repetitive detailed 
inspections for disbonding and cracking of the fuselage inner 
doubler; eddy current and ultrasonic inspections of the fuselage 
longitudinal lap joints for cracking; and repair if necessary (i.e., 
repairing any cracking or disbonding, or contacting Airbus for 
repair instructions and doing the repair).

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.

Repetitive Inspections of ``Special Areas'' and Repair or Modification 
if Necessary

    (g) For airplanes on which an eddy current inspection of the 
``special'' areas of the longitudinal lap joints has not been done 
as of the effective date of this AD in accordance with Airbus 
Mandatory Service Bulletin A300-53-0211: Prior to the accumulation 
of 24,000 total flight cycles, or within 2,000 flight cycles after 
the effective date of this AD, whichever occurs later; do an eddy 
current inspection for cracking of the ``special'' areas of the 
longitudinal lap joints, in accordance with the Accomplishment 
Instructions of Airbus Mandatory Service Bulletin A300-53-0211, 
Revision 07, dated December 1, 2006. If no cracking is found, repeat 
the inspection thereafter at the applicable intervals specified in 
Table 1 of this AD. If any crack is found during any inspection 
required by this paragraph, repair or modify before further flight, 
in accordance with the Accomplishment Instructions of Airbus 
Mandatory Service Bulletin A300-53-0211, Revision 07, dated December 
1, 2006; and do the applicable inspection of the repaired or 
modified area in accordance with paragraph (k) of this AD. 
``Special'' areas of the longitudinal lap joints are defined in 
Airbus Mandatory Service Bulletin A300-53-0211, Revision 07, dated 
December 1, 2006.

[[Page 63179]]



            Table 1--Repetitive Intervals for Inspecting Special Areas of the Longitudinal Lap Joints
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                      Inspect special area--
           For airplanes--                                           Repeat at intervals not to exceed--
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
All.................................  STGR5 LH and RH (FR54  3,600 flight cycles.
                                       through FR58).
All.................................  STGR22 LH and RH       2,700 flight cycles.
                                       (FR26 through FR40).
All.................................  STGR22 RH (FR58        3,000 flight cycles.
                                       through FR65).
All.................................  STGR31 LH/RH (FR26     3,000 flight cycles.
                                       through FR39).
MSN 0003............................  STGR31 LH/RH (FR54     3,600 flight cycles.
                                       through FR58).
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

     (h) For airplanes on which an eddy current inspection of the 
``special'' areas of the longitudinal lap joints has been done 
before the effective date of this AD in accordance with the 
Accomplishment Instructions of Airbus Mandatory Service Bulletin 
A300-53-0211; except for airplanes on which a repair or modification 
of the ``special'' areas has been done in accordance with the 
Accomplishment Instructions of Airbus Mandatory Service Bulletin 
A300-53-0211: Do the next inspection of the ``special'' areas of the 
longitudinal lap joints at the earlier of the times specified in 
paragraphs (h)(1) and (h)(2) of this AD, in accordance with the 
Accomplishment Instructions of Airbus Mandatory Service Bulletin 
A300-53-0211, Revision 07, dated December 1, 2006. If no cracking is 
found, repeat the inspection thereafter at the applicable intervals 
specified in Table 2 of this AD. If any crack is found during any 
inspection required by this paragraph, repair or modify before 
further flight, in accordance with the Accomplishment Instructions 
of Airbus Mandatory Service Bulletin A300-53-0211, Revision 07, 
dated December 1, 2006, and do the applicable inspection of the 
repaired or modified area in accordance with paragraph (k) of this 
AD. ``Special'' areas of the longitudinal lap joints are defined in 
Airbus Mandatory Service Bulletin A300-53-0211, Revision 07, dated 
December 1, 2006.
    (1) Within 6,000 flight cycles after doing the last inspection 
of the ``special'' areas of the longitudinal lap joints, in 
accordance with Airbus Mandatory Service Bulletin A300-53-0211, 
Revision 07, dated December 1, 2006.
    (2) Within the applicable intervals specified in Table 2 of this 
AD, or within 60 days after the effective date of this AD, whichever 
occurs later.

            Table 2--Repetitive Intervals for Inspecting Special Areas of the Longitudinal Lap Joints
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                      Inspect special area--
           For airplanes--                                           Repeat at intervals not to exceed--
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
All.................................  STGR5 LH and RH (FR54  3,600 flight cycles.
                                       through FR58).
All.................................  STGR22 LH and RH       2,700 flight cycles.
                                       (FR26 through FR40).
All.................................  STGR22 RH (FR58        3,000 flight cycles.
                                       through FR65).
All.................................  STGR31 LH/RH (FR26     3,000 flight cycles.
                                       through FR39).
MSN 0003............................  STGR31 LH/RH (FR54     3,600 flight cycles.
                                       through FR58).
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Repetitive Inspections of ``Standard Areas'' and Repair or Modification 
if Necessary

    (i) For airplanes on which an eddy current inspection of the 
``standard'' areas of the longitudinal lap joints has not been done 
before the effective date of this AD in accordance with the 
Accomplishment Instructions of Airbus Mandatory Service Bulletin 
A300-53-0211: At the applicable time specified in Tables 3 and 4 of 
this AD, do an eddy current inspection for cracking of the 
longitudinal lap joints in the ``standard'' areas, in accordance 
with the Accomplishment Instructions of Airbus Mandatory Service 
Bulletin A300-53-0211, Revision 07, dated December 1, 2006. Repeat 
the inspection thereafter at the applicable intervals specified in 
Tables 3 and 4 of this AD. If any crack is found during any 
inspection required by this paragraph, repair or modify before 
further flight, in accordance with the Accomplishment Instructions 
of Airbus Mandatory Service Bulletin A300-53-0211, Revision 07, 
dated December 1, 2006, and do the applicable inspection of the 
applicable area specified in Tables 3 and 4 of this AD. ``Standard'' 
areas of the longitudinal lap joints are defined in Airbus Mandatory 
Service Bulletin A300-53-0211, Revision 07, dated December 1, 2006.

Table 3--Initial Compliance Times and Repetitive Intervals for Inspecting Standard Areas of the Longitudinal Lap
                                                     Joints
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                   Before the
        For airplanes--           accumulation       Inspect            Repeat at intervals not to exceed--
                                      of--       standard area--
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
All...........................  32,000 total     STGR5, 13, 22    3,600 flight cycles.
                                 flight cycles.   LH and RH,
                                                  STGR31 LH
                                                  (FR18 through
                                                  FR26).
All...........................  32,000 total     STGR27 RH,       8,000 flight cycles.
                                 flight cycles.   STGR39 RH
                                                  (FR18 through
                                                  FR20A, FR25A,
                                                  FR26).
All...........................  32,000 total     STGR43 LH,       5,700 flight cycles.
                                 flight cycles.   STGR46 RH,
                                                  STGR51 LH
                                                  (FR19 through
                                                  FR26).
All...........................  32,000 total     STGR5 LH/RH      3,000 flight cycles.
                                 flight cycles.   (FR26 through
                                                  FR40); STGR11
                                                  LH/RH (FR27
                                                  through FR32);
                                                  STGR13 LH/RH
                                                  (FR 26 through
                                                  FR28, FR31
                                                  through FR40);
                                                  STGR27 LH/RH
                                                  (FR 27 through
                                                  FR32); STGR43
                                                  LH/RH (FR 26
                                                  through FR39);
                                                  STGR49 RH
                                                  (FR26 through
                                                  FR39).
All...........................  32,000 total     STGR47 LH (FR26  5,700 flight cycles.
                                 flight cycles.   through FR39).
All...........................  32,000 total     STGR5, 13, 22    5,000 flight cycles.
                                 flight cycles.   LH/RH (FR40
                                                  through FR54).

[[Page 63180]]

 
All except MSN 0003...........  32,000 total     STGR13, 44, 52   3,600 flight cycles.
                                 flight cycles.   LH/RH (FR54
                                                  through FR58);
                                                  STGR22 LH/RH
                                                  (FR54, FR55);
                                                  STGR31 LH/RH
                                                  (FR54 through
                                                  FR58).
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

     (j) For airplanes on which an eddy current inspection of the 
``standard'' areas of the longitudinal lap joints has been done as 
of the effective date of this AD in accordance with the 
Accomplishment Instructions of Airbus Mandatory Service Bulletin 
A300-53-0211; except for airplanes on which a repair or modification 
of the ``standard areas'' has been done in accordance with Airbus 
Mandatory Service Bulletin A300-53-0211: Do the next inspection of 
the ``standard'' areas of the longitudinal lap joints at the earlier 
of the times specified in paragraphs (j)(1) and (j)(2) of this AD, 
in accordance with the Accomplishment Instructions of Airbus 
Mandatory Service Bulletin A300-53-0211, Revision 07, dated December 
1, 2006. Thereafter, if no cracking is found, repeat the inspection 
at the applicable intervals specified in Tables 3 and 4 of this AD. 
If any crack is found during any inspection required by this 
paragraph, repair or modify before further flight, in accordance 
with the Accomplishment Instructions of Airbus Mandatory Service 
Bulletin A300-53-0211, Revision 07, dated December 1, 2006, and do 
the applicable inspection of the repaired or modified area in 
accordance with paragraph (k) of this AD. ``Standard'' areas of the 
longitudinal lap joints are defined in Airbus Mandatory Service 
Bulletin A300-53-0211, Revision 07, dated December 1, 2006.

   Table 4--Initial Compliance Times and Repetitive Intervals for Inspecting Additional Standard Areas of the
                                             Longitudinal Lap Joints
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                   Before the
        For airplanes--           accumulation       Inspect            Repeat at intervals not to exceed--
                                      of--       standard area--
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Pre-Mod 1398..................  32,000 total     STGR5, 13 LH/RH  2,700 flight cycles.
                                 flight cycles.   22 LH (FR58
                                                  through FR65);
                                                  STGR31 LH
                                                  (FR58 through
                                                  FR72); STGR31
                                                  RH (FR65
                                                  through FR72).
All...........................  32,000 total     STGR27 RH,       8,000 flight cycles.
                                 flight cycles.   STGR39 RH
                                                  (FR58, FR59A,
                                                  FR63A through
                                                  FR65).
Post-Mod 1398.................  32,000 total     STGR5, 13 LH/RH  3,000 flight cycles.
                                 flight cycles.   22 LH (FR58
                                                  through FR65);
                                                  STGR31 LH
                                                  (FR58 through
                                                  FR72); STGR 31
                                                  RH (FR65
                                                  through FR72).
Pre-Mod 1398..................  32,000 total     STGR5, 13, 22    2,300 flight cycles.
                                 flight cycles.   LH/RH (FR65
                                                  through FR72).
Post-Mod 1398.................  32,000 total     STGR5, 13, 22    3,000 flight cycles.
                                 flight cycles.   LH/RH (FR65
                                                  through FR72).
All...........................  32,000 total     STGR44 LH (FR58  3,000 flight cycles.
                                 flight cycles.   through FR72);
                                                  STGR52 LH/RH
                                                  (FR58 through
                                                  FR65); STGR47
                                                  RH (FR58
                                                  through FR72);
                                                  STGR57 LH
                                                  (FR65 through
                                                  FR72).
All...........................  24,000 total     STGR22 RH (FR58  3,000 flight cycles.
                                 flight cycles.   through FR65).
All...........................  32,000 total     STGR6 LH/RH      3,000 flight cycles.
                                 flight cycles.   (FR72 through
                                                  FR80); STGR24
                                                  LH/RH (FR76
                                                  through FR80).
All...........................  32,000 total     STRG17 LH/RH     5,700 flight cycles.
                                 flight cycles.   (FR76 through
                                                  FR80); STGR29
                                                  LH/RH (FR72
                                                  through FR76);
                                                  STGR35 LH/RH
                                                  (FR72 through
                                                  FR80).
All...........................  27,000 total     STGR51 LH/RH     5,700 flight cycles.
                                 flight cycles.   (FR72 through
                                                  FR80).
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

    (1) Within the applicable time in paragraph (j)(1)(i) or 
(j)(1)(ii) of this AD after doing the last inspection of the 
``standard'' areas of the longitudinal lap joints in accordance with 
Airbus Mandatory Service Bulletin A300-53-0211, Revision 07, dated 
December 1, 2006.
    (i) For longitudinal lap joints with bonded doublers: 6,000 
flight cycles.
    (ii) For longitudinal lap joints without bonded doublers: 8,000 
flight cycles.
    (2) Within the applicable time specified in Tables 3 or 4 of 
this AD, or within 60 days after the effective date of this AD, 
whichever occurs later.

Post-Repair or Modification Inspections and Repair or Modification if 
Necessary

    (k) For airplanes on which a repair or modification has been 
done in accordance with the Accomplishment Instructions of Airbus 
Mandatory Service Bulletin A300-53-0211: At the applicable initial 
inspection time specified in Table 5 of this AD, do an eddy current 
inspection for cracking of the repaired or modified areas, in 
accordance with the Accomplishment Instructions of Airbus Mandatory 
Service Bulletin A300-53-0211, Revision 07, dated December 1, 2006. 
If no cracking is found, repeat the inspection thereafter at the 
applicable intervals specified in Table 5 of this AD. If any crack 
is found during any inspection required by this paragraph, repair or 
modify before further flight, in accordance with the Accomplishment 
Instructions of Airbus Mandatory Service Bulletin A300-53-0211, 
Revision 07, dated December 1, 2006.

[[Page 63181]]



                              Table 5--Post-Repair or Modification Compliance Time
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Repair or retrofit solution/area--
as identified in Airbus Mandatory   Initial inspection after  Follow-up inspections at intervals not to exceed--
 Service Bulletin A300-53-0211--      repair or retrofit--
 
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Repair 1: (Without cut out) also   Skin/doubler thickness
 applicable to the solution with
 removed inner doubler.
                                    < 1 inch: 10,000  1,000 flight cycles.
                                    flight cycles after
                                    repair.
                                    >= 1 inch and <   2,000 flight cycles.
                                    2 inch: 30,000 flight
                                    cycles after repair.
                                    >= 2 inch:        6,400 flight cycles.
                                    60,000 flight cycles
                                    after repair.
Repair 4 (With cut out)..........  Within 32,000 flight       5,000 flight cycles.
                                    cycles after repair.
Repair 4A (With cut out).........  Within 24,000 flight       5,300 flight cycles.
                                    cycles after repair.
Repair 7 (MSN 0095 at STGR52 LH    Within 37,000 flight       12,000 flight cycles.
 in Section 16).                    cycles after repair.
Repair 9 (MSN 0073 and 0095        Within 36,000 flight       5,000 flight cycles.
 STGR44 LH/RH in Sections 16 and    cycles after repair.
 17).
Repair 10 (Post-repair             Within 20,000 flight       11,000 flight cycles.
 inspections in Figure 13).         cycles after repair.
Repair 2 (With cut out)..........  Within 24,000 flight       5,300 flight cycles.
                                    cycles after repair.
Repair 3 (Without cut out).......  Within 24,000 flight       5,300 flight cycles.
                                    cycles after repair.
Retrofit 1 (Retrofit lap joint)..  Within 32,000 flight       5,000 flight cycles.
                                    cycles after retrofit.
Retrofit 2 Retrofit lower shell    Within 32,000 flight       3,000 flight cycles.
 (4 panel solution) STGR43 LH       cycles after retrofit.
 (FR26 through FR39), STGR43 RH
 (FR26 through FR38), and STGR49
 RH (FR26 through FR38).
Retrofit 2 Retrofit lower shell    Within 32,000 flight       5,700 flight cycles.
 (4 panel solution) STGR46 RH       cycles after retrofit.
 (FR19 through FR26), and STGR47
 LH (FR26 through FR39), and
 STGR51 LH (FR19 through FR26).
Retrofit 3 Retrofit lower shell    Within 32,000 flight       3,000 flight cycles.
 (3 panel solution) STGR43 LH       cycles after retrofit.
 (FR26 through FR39), and STGR43
 RH (FR26 through FR38).
Retrofit 3 Retrofit lower shell    Within 32,000 flight       5,700 flight cycles.
 (3 panel solution) STGR46 RH       cycles after retrofit.
 (FR19 through FR26), and STGR51
 LH (FR19 through FR26), and
 STGR54 LH (FR26 through FR39).
Retrofit 3A (STGR43 LH/RH between  Within 32,000 flight       5,000 flight cycles.
 FR37 and FR39 in Section 14).      cycles after retrofit.
Retrofit 4 (Retrofit lap joint     Within 42,000 flight       5,000 flight cycles.
 without cut out).                  cycles after retrofit.
Retrofit 5 (Retrofit lap joint)..  Within 42,000 flight       5,000 flight cycles.
                                    cycles after retrofit.
Retrofit 6 (Retrofit lap joint)..  Within 34,000 flight       12,000 flight cycles.
                                    cycles after retrofit.
Retrofit 7 (Retrofit lap joint)..  Within 47,600 flight       5,400 flight cycles.
                                    cycles after retrofit.
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Fuselage Inner Doubler Inspections and Repair if Necessary

    (l) For airplanes on which any inspections of the fuselage 
bonded inner doublers of the longitudinal lap joints in Sections 13 
through 18 (except Sections 16 and 17 at Stringer 31 left-hand and 
right-hand) for disbonding and cracking have not been done as of the 
effective date of this AD in accordance with Airbus Service Bulletin 
A300-53-229: Prior to the accumulation of 24,000 total flight cycles 
or within 15 years since new, whichever occurs first; or within 60 
days after the effective date of this AD; whichever occurs later, do 
a detailed inspection of the fuselage bonded inner doublers of the 
longitudinal lap joints in Sections 13 through 18 (except Sections 
16 and 17 at Stringer 31 left-hand and right-hand) for disbonding 
and cracking, in accordance with the Accomplishment Instructions of 
Airbus Service Bulletin A300-53-229, Revision 5, dated April 8, 
1997. If no disbonding and no cracking is found, repeat the 
inspection thereafter at the applicable intervals specified in Table 
6 of this AD.

    Table 6--Repetitive Intervals for Inspections for Disbonding and
                                Cracking
------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                     Inspect at intervals not to exceed--
             For area--
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Sections 13 and 14 as specified in   Within 7 years or 12,000 flight
 Airbus Service Bulletin              cycles after doing the inspection,
 A300[dash]53[dash]229, Revision 5,   whichever occurs first.
 dated April 8, 1997.
Sections 15 through 18 as specified  Within 8.5 years or 12,000 flight
 in Airbus Service Bulletin           cycles after doing the inspection,
 A300[dash]53[dash]229, Revision 5,   whichever occurs first.
 dated April 8, 1997.
------------------------------------------------------------------------

     (1) If no cracking is found and ``minor'' disbonding, as 
defined in Airbus Service Bulletin A300-53-229, Revision 5, dated 
April 8, 1997, is found: Repeat the inspection thereafter at 
intervals not to exceed 1 year for areas below stringer 22, and at 
intervals not to exceed 2 years for areas above and including 
stringer 22.
    (2) If no cracking is found and ``major'' disbonding, as defined 
in Airbus Service Bulletin A300-53-229, Revision 5, dated April 8, 
1997, is found: Within 1,000 flight cycles after doing the 
inspection, repair, in accordance with the Accomplishment 
Instructions of Airbus Service Bulletin A300-53-229, Revision 5, 
dated April 8, 1997.
    (3) If any cracking is found, repair prior to further flight, in 
accordance with Airbus Service Bulletin A300-53-229, Revision 5, 
dated April 8, 1997.
    (m) For airplanes on which any inspections of the fuselage 
bonded inner doublers of the longitudinal lap joints in Sections 13 
through 18 (except Sections 16 and 17 at Stringer 31 left-hand and 
right-hand) for disbonding and cracking have been done as of the 
effective date of this AD in accordance with Airbus Service Bulletin 
A300-53-229; except for airplanes on which a repair of that area has 
been done in accordance with Airbus Service

[[Page 63182]]

Bulletin A300-53-229: At the applicable time specified in Table 6 of 
this AD, or within 60 days after the effective date of this AD, 
whichever occurs later, do a detailed inspection of the fuselage 
bonded inner doublers of the longitudinal lap joints in Sections 13 
through 18 (except Sections 16 and 17 at Stringer 31 left-hand and 
right-hand) for disbonding and cracking, in accordance with the 
Accomplishment Instructions of Airbus Service Bulletin A300-53-229, 
Revision 5, dated April 8, 1997. If no disbonding and no cracking is 
found, repeat the inspection at the applicable intervals specified 
in Table 6 of this AD.
    (1) If no cracking is found and ``minor'' disbonding, as defined 
in Airbus Service Bulletin A300-53-229, Revision 5, dated April 8, 
1997, is found: Repeat the inspection thereafter at intervals not to 
exceed 1 year for areas below stringer 22, and at intervals not to 
exceed 2 years for areas above and including stringer 22.
    (2) If no cracking is found and ``major'' disbonding, as defined 
in Airbus Service Bulletin A300-53-229, Revision 5, dated April 8, 
1997, is found: Within 1,000 flight cycles after doing the 
inspection, repair, in accordance with the Accomplishment 
Instructions of Airbus Service Bulletin A300-53-229, Revision 5, 
dated April 8, 1997.
    (3) If any cracking is found, repair prior to further flight, in 
accordance with Airbus Service Bulletin A300-53-229, Revision 5, 
dated April 8, 1997.
    (n) For airplanes on which any inspections of the fuselage 
bonded inner doublers of the longitudinal lap joints in Sections 16 
and 17 at Stringer 31 left-hand and right-hand for disbonding and 
cracking have not been done as of the effective date of this AD in 
accordance with Airbus Service Bulletin A300-53-229: Prior to the 
accumulation of 24,000 total flight cycles or within 12 years since 
new, whichever occurs first; or within 60 days after the effective 
date of this AD; whichever occurs later, do a detailed inspection of 
the fuselage bonded inner doubles of the longitudinal lap joints in 
Sections 16 and 17 at Stringer 31 left-hand and right-hand for 
disbonding and cracking, in accordance with the Accomplishment 
Instructions of Airbus Service Bulletin A300-53-229, Revision 5, 
dated April 8, 1997. If no disbonding and no cracking is found, 
repeat the inspection thereafter at intervals not to exceed 7 years 
or 12,000 flight cycles, whichever occurs first.
    (1) If no cracking is found and ``minor'' disbonding, as defined 
in Airbus Service Bulletin A300-53-229, Revision 5, dated April 8, 
1997, is found: Repeat the inspection thereafter at intervals not to 
exceed 1 year for areas below stringer 22, and at intervals not to 
exceed 2 years for areas above and including stringer 22. Doing a 
repair in accordance with Airbus Service Bulletin A300-53-229, 
Revision 5, dated April 8, 1997, terminates the repetitive 
inspections required by this paragraph for that area.
    (2) If no cracking is found and ``major'' disbonding, as defined 
in Airbus Service Bulletin A300-53-229, Revision 5, dated April 8, 
1997, is found: Within 1,000 flight cycles after doing the 
inspection, repair, in accordance with the Accomplishment 
Instructions of Airbus Service Bulletin A300-53-229, Revision 5, 
dated April 8, 1997.
    (3) If any cracking is found, repair prior to further flight, in 
accordance with Airbus Service Bulletin A300-53-229, Revision 5, 
dated April 8, 1997.
    (o) For airplanes on which any inspections of the fuselage 
bonded inner doublers of the longitudinal lap joints in Sections 16 
and 17 at Stringer 31 left-hand and right-hand for disbonding and 
cracking have been done as of the effective date of this AD in 
accordance with Airbus Service Bulletin A300-53-229; except 
airplanes on which a repair of that area has been done in accordance 
with Airbus Service Bulletin A300-53-229: Within 7 years or 12,000 
flight cycles after doing the inspection, whichever occurs first; or 
within 60 days after the effective date of this AD; whichever occurs 
later, do a detailed inspection of the fuselage bonded inner doubles 
of the longitudinal lap joints in Sections 16 and 17 at Stringer 31 
left-hand and right-hand for disbonding and cracking in accordance 
with the Accomplishment Instructions of Airbus Service Bulletin 
A300-53-229, Revision 5, dated April 8, 1997. If no disbonding and 
corrosion are found, repeat the inspection thereafter at intervals 
not to exceed 7 years or 12,000 flight cycles, whichever occurs 
first.
    (1) If no cracking is found and ``minor'' disbonding, as defined 
in Airbus Service Bulletin A300-53-229, Revision 5, dated April 8, 
1997, is found: Repeat the inspection thereafter at intervals not to 
exceed 1 year for areas below stringer 22, and at intervals not to 
exceed 2 years for areas above and including stringer 22. Doing a 
repair in accordance with Airbus Service Bulletin A300-53-229, 
Revision 5, dated April 8, 1997, terminates the repetitive 
inspections required by this paragraph for that area.
    (2) If no cracking is found and ``major'' disbonding, as defined 
in Airbus Service Bulletin A300-53-229, Revision 5, dated April 8, 
1997, is found: Within 1,000 flight cycles after doing the 
inspection, repair, in accordance with the Accomplishment 
Instructions of Airbus Service Bulletin A300-53-229, Revision 5, 
dated April 8, 1997.
    (3) If any cracking is found, repair prior to further flight, in 
accordance with Airbus Service Bulletin A300-53-229, Revision 5, 
dated April 8, 1997.
    (p) Although Airbus Service Bulletin A300-53-229, Revision 5, 
dated April 8, 1997; and Airbus Mandatory Service Bulletin A300-53-
0211, Revision 07, dated December 1, 2006; specify to submit certain 
information to the manufacturer, this AD does not include that 
requirement.

FAA AD Differences

    Note 1: This AD differs from the MCAI and/or service information 
as follows:
    (1) Although the MCAI or service information allows further 
flight after cracks are found during compliance with the required 
action, this AD requires that you repair the crack(s) before further 
flight.
    (2) The MCAI or service information does not include enforceable 
compliance times for certain actions; however, this AD requires that 
those actions be done at the enforceable times specified in this AD.
    (3) Although the MCAI or service information tells you to submit 
information to the manufacturer, paragraph (p) of this AD specifies 
that such submittal is not required.

Other FAA AD Provisions

    (q) The following provisions also apply to this AD:
    (1) Alternative Methods of Compliance (AMOCs): The Manager, 
International Branch, ANM-116, 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 International 
Branch, send it to ATTN: Dan Rodina, Aerospace Engineer, 
International Branch, ANM-116, Transport Airplane Directorate, FAA, 
1601 Lind Avenue, SW., Renton, Washington 98057-3356; telephone 
(425) 227-2125; fax (425) 227-1149. Information may be e-mailed to: 
[email protected]. 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

    (r) Refer to MCAI European Aviation Safety Agency Airworthiness 
Directive 2007-0091, dated April 10, 2007, corrected June 23, 2008; 
Airbus Service Bulletin A300-53-229, Revision 5, dated April 8, 
1997; and Airbus Mandatory Service Bulletin A300-53-0211, Revision 
07, dated December 1, 2006; for related information.

Material Incorporated by Reference

    (s) You must use Airbus Service Bulletin A300-53-229, Revision 
5, dated April 8, 1997, including Appendix A300SB/53-229, dated 
April 10, 1989; and Airbus Mandatory Service Bulletin A300-53-0211, 
Revision 07, dated December 1, 2006; as applicable; to do the 
actions required by this AD, unless the AD specifies otherwise. Only 
pages 1, 2, 5, 11, and 12, of Airbus Service Bulletin A300-53-229, 
Revision 5, dated April 8, 1997, show revision level 5 and issue 
date April 8, 1997; pages 3, 4-10, and 13-17 show revision level 4 
and issue date March 30, 1994, and pages 1-17 of Appendix A300SB/53-
229 show issue date April 10, 1989.
    (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.
    (2) For service information identified in this AD, contact 
Airbus SAS--EAW (Airworthiness Office), 1 Rond Point Maurice 
Bellonte, 31707 Blagnac Cedex, France;

[[Page 63183]]

telephone +33 5 61 93 36 96; fax +33 5 61 93 44 51; e-mail 
[email protected]; Internet http://www.airbus.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 September 23, 2011.
Ali Bahrami,
Manager, Transport Airplane Directorate, Aircraft Certification 
Service.
[FR Doc. 2011-25617 Filed 10-11-11; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE 4910-13-P