[Federal Register Volume 79, Number 131 (Wednesday, July 9, 2014)]
[Proposed Rules]
[Pages 38801-38806]
From the Federal Register Online via the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]
[FR Doc No: 2014-15986]


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DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION

Federal Aviation Administration

14 CFR Part 39

[Docket No. FAA-2014-0431; Directorate Identifier 2013-NM-041-AD]
RIN 2120-AA64


Airworthiness Directives; the Boeing Company Airplanes

AGENCY: Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), DOT.

ACTION: Notice of proposed rulemaking (NPRM).

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SUMMARY: We propose to supersede Airworthiness Directive (AD) 2005-14-
07, which applies to certain The Boeing Company Model 727, 727C, 727-
100, 727-100C, 727-200, and 727-200F series airplanes. AD 2005-14-07 
currently requires repetitive inspections of the carriage attach 
fittings on the inboard and outboard foreflaps of each wing for 
cracking and other discrepancies, and corrective actions if necessary. 
Since we issued AD 2005-14-07, we received a report of broken inboard 
and outboard carriage attach fittings of the outboard foreflaps found 
during an inspection. This proposed AD would reduce certain repetitive 
inspection intervals for the inboard and outboard carriage attach 
fittings for the outboard foreflaps, require previously optional 
terminating actions which install improved outboard foreflap carriage 
attach fittings, and add new initial and repetitive inspections of 
those fittings and corrective actions if necessary. We are proposing 
this AD to detect and correct fatigue cracking of the attach fittings 
of the foreflap carriage of the wings, which could result in partial or 
complete loss of the foreflap and consequent loss of controllability of 
the airplane.

DATES: We must receive comments on this proposed AD by August 25, 2014.

ADDRESSES: You may send comments, using the procedures found in 14 CFR 
11.43 and 11.45, by any of the following methods:
     Federal eRulemaking Portal: Go to http://www.regulations.gov. Follow the instructions for submitting comments.
     Fax: 202-493-2251.
     Mail: U.S. Department of Transportation, Docket 
Operations, M-30, West Building Ground Floor, Room W12-140, 1200 New 
Jersey Avenue SE., Washington, DC 20590.
     Hand Delivery: Deliver to Mail address above between 9 
a.m. and 5 p.m., Monday through Friday, except Federal holidays.

[[Page 38802]]

    For service information identified in this AD, contact Boeing 
Commercial Airplanes, Attention: Data & Services Management, P.O. Box 
3707, MC 2H-65, Seattle, WA 98124-2207; telephone 206-544-5000, 
extension 1; fax 206-766-5680; Internet https://www.myboeingfleet.com. 
You may view this referenced service information at the FAA, Transport 
Airplane Directorate, 1601 Lind Avenue SW., Renton, WA. For information 
on the availability of this material at the FAA, call 425-227-1221.

Examining the AD Docket

    You may examine the AD docket on the Internet at http://www.regulations.gov by searching for and locating Docket No. FAA-2014-
0431; or in person at the Docket Management Facility between 9 a.m. and 
5 p.m., Monday through Friday, except Federal holidays. The AD docket 
contains this proposed AD, the regulatory evaluation, any comments 
received, and other information. The street address for the Docket 
Office (phone: 800-647-5527) is in the ADDRESSES section. Comments will 
be available in the AD docket shortly after receipt.

FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Chandraduth Ramdoss, Aerospace 
Engineer, Airframe Branch, ANM-120L, FAA, Los Angeles Aircraft 
Certification Office, 3960 Paramount Boulevard, Lakewood, CA 90712-
4137; phone: 562-627-5239; fax: 562-627-5210; email 
[email protected].

SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION:

Comments Invited

    We invite you to send any written relevant data, views, or 
arguments about this proposed AD. Send your comments to an address 
listed under the ADDRESSES section. Include ``Docket No. FAA-2014-0431; 
Directorate Identifier 2013-NM-041-AD'' at the beginning of your 
comments. We specifically invite comments on the overall regulatory, 
economic, environmental, and energy aspects of this proposed AD. We 
will consider all comments received by the closing date and may amend 
this proposed AD because of those comments.
    We will post all comments we receive, without change, to http://www.regulations.gov, including any personal information you provide. We 
will also post a report summarizing each substantive verbal contact we 
receive about this proposed AD.

Discussion

    On June 29, 2005, we issued AD 2005-14-07, Amendment 39-14184 (70 
FR 39647, July 11, 2005), for certain Boeing Model 727, 727C, 727-100, 
727-100C, 727-200, and 727-200F series airplanes. AD 2005-14-07 
requires repetitive inspections of the carriage attach fittings on the 
inboard and outboard foreflaps of each wing for cracking and other 
discrepancies, and corrective actions if necessary. For certain 
airplanes, AD 2005-14-07 also concurrently requires various other 
actions related to the subject area. AD 2005-14-07 also provides for an 
optional terminating action for the repetitive inspection requirements 
and for an optional replacement that defers the repetitive inspections. 
AD 2005-14-07 resulted from reports of damaged or failed outboard 
foreflaps with a cracked or failed carriage attach fitting of the 
foreflap sequencing carriage. We issued AD 2005-14-07 to detect and 
correct fatigue cracking of the attach fittings of the foreflap 
carriage of the wings, which could result in partial or complete loss 
of the foreflap and consequent loss of controllability of the airplane.

Actions Since AD 2005-14-07, Amendment 39-14184 (70 FR 39647, July 11, 
2005) Was Issued

    Since we issued AD 2005-14-07, Amendment 39-14184 (70 FR 39647, 
July 11, 2005), we received a report of broken inboard and outboard 
carriage attach fittings of the outboard foreflaps found during an 
inspection required by AD 2005-14-07. The airplane had 47,125 flight 
cycles. Boeing stated that the metallurgical analysis determined that 
the cause of the broken fittings is a suspected static overload 
condition.

Relevant Service Information

    We reviewed Boeing Alert Service Bulletin 727-57A0135, Revision 4, 
dated September 26, 2012. For information on the procedures and 
compliance times, see this service information at http://www.regulations.gov by searching for Docket No. FAA-2014-0431.

FAA's Determination

    We are proposing this AD because we evaluated all the relevant 
information and determined the unsafe condition described previously is 
likely to exist or develop in other products of the same type design.

Proposed AD Requirements

    This proposed AD would retain all requirements of AD 2005-14-07, 
Amendment 39-14184 (70 FR 39647, July 11, 2005). This proposed AD would 
reduce certain repetitive inspection intervals for the inboard and 
outboard carriage attach fittings of the outboard foreflaps, require 
previously optional terminating actions which install improved outboard 
foreflap carriage attach fittings, and add new initial and repetitive 
inspections of those fittings and corrective action if necessary. This 
proposed AD would also require accomplishing the actions specified in 
the service information described previously. This proposed AD would 
also add a reference to Figure 3 of Boeing Alert Service Bulletin 727-
57A0135, Revision 3, dated June 27, 2002, in paragraph (i)(2) of this 
proposed AD that restates the requirements of paragraph (i) of AD 2005-
14-07, to provide for further information on corrective actions.
    The phrase ``corrective actions'' is used in this proposed AD. 
``Corrective actions'' are actions that correct or address any 
condition found. Corrective actions in an AD could include, for 
example, repairs.

Change to AD 2005-14-07, Amendment 39-14184 (70 FR 39647, July 11, 
2005)

    This proposed AD would retain all requirements of AD 2005-14-07, 
Amendment 39-14184 (70 FR 39647, July 11, 2005). Since AD 2005-14-07 
was issued, the AD format has been revised, and certain paragraphs have 
been rearranged. As a result, the corresponding paragraph identifiers 
have been redesignated in this proposed AD, as listed in the following 
table:

                     Revised Paragraph Designations
------------------------------------------------------------------------
   Requirement in AD 2005-14-07,
  Amendment 39-14184 (70 FR 39647,    Corresponding  requirement in this
           July 11, 2005)                        proposed AD
------------------------------------------------------------------------
             paragraph (f)                        paragraph (g)
             paragraph (g)                        paragraph (h)
             paragraph (h)                     paragraph (i)(1)
             paragraph (i)                     paragraph (i)(2)
             paragraph (j)                     paragraph (j)(1)
             paragraph (k)                     paragraph (j)(2)
             paragraph (l)                     paragraph (j)(3)
             paragraph (m)                     paragraph (j)(4)
             paragraph (n)                        paragraph (k)
             paragraph (o)                        paragraph (l)
             paragraph (p)                     paragraph (r)(1)
             paragraph (q)                     paragraph (r)(2)
------------------------------------------------------------------------

Costs of Compliance

    We estimate that this proposed AD affects 98 airplanes of U.S. 
registry.
    We estimate the following costs to comply with this proposed AD:

[[Page 38803]]



                                            Retained Estimated Costs
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
       Retained action         Work hours    Parts cost              Cost               Cost on U.S. operators
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Inspections of the carriage             4  None.........  $340 per airplane, per      $33,320, per inspection
 attach fittings for all                                   inspection cycle.           cycle.
 airplanes [retained actions
 from AD 2005-14-07,
 Amendment 39-14184 (70 FR
 39647, July 11, 2005)].
Installation of guide blocks           32  $0...........  $2,720 per airplane.......  Up to $266,560.
 for certain airplanes
 [retained actions from AD
 2005-14-07, Amendment 39-
 14184 (70 FR 39647, July
 11, 2005)].
Inspection of foreflap                  4  None.........  $340 per airplane.........  Up to $33,320.
 airload roller travel for
 certain airplanes [retained
 actions from AD 2005-14-07,
 Amendment 39-14184 (70 FR
 39647, July 11, 2005)].
Modification of the inboard             4  $0...........  $340 per airplane.........  Up to $33,320.
 jackscrews on the outboard
 flap for certain airplanes
 [retained actions from AD
 2005-14-07, Amendment 39-
 14184 (70 FR 39647, July
 11, 2005)].
Inspection of the entire               12  None.........  $1,020 per airplane.......  Up to $99,960.
 track and of the track rib
 faces for certain airplanes
 [retained actions from AD
 2005-14-07, Amendment 39-
 14184 (70 FR 39647, July
 11, 2005)].
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------


                                                        Estimated Costs for New Proposed Actions
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
               Action                       Labor cost             Parts cost                Cost per product                Cost on U.S. operators
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Inspection and functional check of    3 work-hours x $85 per  None................  $255, per inspection cycle.......  $24,990, per inspection cycle.
 outboard foreflap installation for    hour = $255 per
 all airplanes [new proposed action].  inspection cycle.
Replacement of carriage attach        2 work-hours x $85 per  $18,000.............  $18,170 per airplane.............  Up to $1,780,660.
 fitting on outboard foreflap for      hour = $170.
 certain airplanes [new proposed
 action].
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

    We estimate the following costs to do any necessary replacements 
that would be required based on the results of the proposed inspection. 
We have no way of determining the number of aircraft that might need 
these replacements:

                                               On-Condition Costs
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
              Action                      Labor cost               Parts cost               Cost per product
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Replacement of sequence carriage    2 work-hours x $85     Up to $175................  Up to $345.
 slider or sidewall rubstrips.       per hour = $170.
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

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 proposed 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 have determined that this proposed AD would not have federalism 
implications under Executive Order 13132. This proposed AD would not 
have a substantial direct effect on the States, on the relationship 
between the national Government and the States, or on the distribution 
of power and responsibilities among the various levels of government.
    For the reasons discussed above, I certify that the proposed 
regulation:
    (1) Is not a ``significant regulatory action'' under Executive 
Order 12866,
    (2) Is not a ``significant rule'' under the DOT Regulatory Policies 
and Procedures (44 FR 11034, February 26, 1979),
    (3) Will not affect intrastate aviation in Alaska, and
    (4) 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.

List of Subjects in 14 CFR Part 39

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

The Proposed Amendment

    Accordingly, under the authority delegated to me by the 
Administrator, the FAA proposes to amend 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 Airworthiness Directive (AD) 
2005-14-07, Amendment 39-14184 (70 FR 39647, July 22, 2005), and adding 
the following new AD:

The Boeing Company: Docket No. FAA-2014-0431; Directorate Identifier 
2013-NM-041-AD.

[[Page 38804]]

(a) Comments Due Date

    The FAA must receive comments on this AD action by August 25, 
2014.

(b) Affected ADs

    This AD supersedes AD 2005-14-07, Amendment 39-14184 (70 FR 
39647, July 11, 2005).

(c) Applicability

    This AD applies to Boeing Model 727, 727C, 727-100, 727-100C, 
727-200, and 727-200F series airplanes, certificated in any 
category, as listed in Boeing Alert Service Bulletin 727-57A0135, 
Revision 3, dated June 27, 2002.

(d) Subject

    Air Transport Association (ATA) of America Code 57, Wings.

(e) Unsafe Condition

    This AD was prompted by a report of broken carriage attach 
fittings of the inboard and outboard foreflaps found during an 
inspection and an additional report of broken inboard and outboard 
carriage attach fittings of the outboard foreflaps found during an 
inspection. We are issuing this AD to detect and correct fatigue 
cracking of the attach fittings of the foreflap carriage of the 
wings, which could result in partial or complete loss of the 
foreflap and consequent loss of controllability of the airplane.

(f) Compliance

    Comply with this AD within the compliance times specified, 
unless already done.

(g) Retained Inspections

    This paragraph restates the requirements of paragraph (f) of AD 
2005-14-07, Amendment 39-14184 (70 FR 39647, July 11, 2005), with 
revised service information and new compliance time. Except as 
provided by paragraph (l) of this AD: Within 1,000 flight cycles 
after August 15, 2005 (the effective date of AD 2005-14-07) or 
within 6 months after the effective date of this AD, whichever 
occurs first, and thereafter at intervals not to exceed 1,000 flight 
cycles, except as required by paragraph (m) of this AD (for outboard 
foreflaps), inspect as specified in paragraphs (g)(1) and (g)(2) of 
this AD in accordance with the Accomplishment Instructions of Boeing 
Alert Service Bulletin 727-57A0135, Revision 3, dated June 27, 2002; 
or Revision 4, dated September 26, 2012. As of the effective date of 
this AD, use only Boeing Alert Service Bulletin 727-57A0135, 
Revision 4, dated September 26, 2012. Accomplishing the actions of 
paragraph (m) or (o) of this AD terminates the inspections required 
by this paragraph for outboard foreflaps only.
    (1) A detailed inspection to detect cracks and surface 
deviations on all edges, surfaces, and lug attachment fastener holes 
on the two carriage attach fittings on the inboard and outboard 
foreflaps of each wing.
    (2) A high frequency eddy current (HFEC) inspection to detect 
cracks at the lug attachment fastener holes on the two carriage 
attach fittings on the inboard and outboard foreflaps of each wing.

(h) Retained Requirement for Crack or Surface Deviation Findings: 
Replacement

    This paragraph restates the requirements of paragraph (g) of AD 
2005-14-07, Amendment 39-14184 (70 FR 39647, July 11, 2005), with 
revised service information. If any crack is detected or if any 
surface deviation beyond the limits specified in Boeing Alert 
Service Bulletin 727-57A0135, Revision 3, dated June 27, 2002; or 
Revision 4, dated September 26, 2012; is detected during any 
inspection required by paragraph (g) or (m) of this AD, before 
further flight, replace the carriage attach fitting with a new, 
improved fitting or a new fitting having the same part number as the 
existing fitting, in accordance with the Accomplishment Instructions 
of Boeing Alert Service Bulletin 727-57A0135, Revision 3, dated June 
27, 2002; or Revision 4, dated September 26, 2012. As of the 
effective date of this AD, use only Boeing Alert Service Bulletin 
727-57A0135, Revision 4, dated September 26, 2012.

(i) Retained Measurement and Associated Corrective Action(s)

    (1) This paragraph restates the requirements of paragraph (h) of 
AD 2005-14-07, Amendment 39-14184 (70 FR 39647, July 11, 2005), with 
revised service information. Within 3,500 flight cycles after August 
15, 2005 (the effective date of AD 2005-14-07), inspect for 
interference between the carriage attach fitting and the carriage 
lug fitting, and do other related investigative actions by 
accomplishing all the actions specified in paragraph 3.C. and Figure 
2 of the Accomplishment Instructions of Boeing Alert Service 
Bulletin 727-57A0135, Revision 3, dated June 27, 2002; or paragraph 
3.B.3 and Figure 2 of the Accomplishment Instructions of Boeing 
Alert Service Bulletin 727-57A0135, Revision 4, dated September 26, 
2012. Do the actions in accordance with Boeing Alert Service 
Bulletin 727-57A0135, Revision 3, dated June 27, 2002; or Revision 
4, dated September 26, 2012. As of the effective date of this AD, 
use only Boeing Alert Service Bulletin 727-57A0135, Revision 4, 
dated September 26, 2012.
    (2) Paragraphs (i)(2)(i) and (i)(2)(ii) of this AD restate the 
requirements of paragraph (i) of AD 2005-14-07, Amendment 39-14184 
(70 FR 39647, July 11, 2005), with revised service information.
    (i) If any discrepancy is found during any action required by 
paragraph (i)(1) of this AD, before further flight, accomplish 
applicable corrective action(s) (e.g., adding a shim or reworking 
the carriage attachment lug assembly) in accordance with paragraph 
3.C. and Figure 2 or 3 of the Accomplishment Instructions of Boeing 
Alert Service Bulletin 727-57A0135, Revision 3, dated June 27, 2002; 
or paragraph 3.B.3. and Figure 3 of the Accomplishment Instructions 
of Boeing Alert Service Bulletin 727-57A0135, Revision 4, dated 
September 26, 2012; except as required by paragraph (i)(2)(ii) of 
this AD. As of the effective date of this AD, use only Boeing Alert 
Service Bulletin 727-57A0135, Revision 4, dated September 26, 2012.
    (ii) Where Boeing Alert Service Bulletin 727-57A0135, Revision 
3, dated June 27, 2002; or Revision 4, dated September 26, 2012; 
specify to contact the manufacturer if rework of the improved 
fitting is required: Before further flight, rework in accordance 
with a method approved by the Manager, Seattle Aircraft 
Certification Office (ACO), or Los Angeles ACO, FAA, or in 
accordance with data meeting the type certification basis of the 
airplane approved by an Authorized Representative (AR) for the 
Boeing Delegation Option Authorization (DOA) Organization who has 
been authorized by the FAA to make such findings, or using a method 
approved in accordance with the procedures specified in paragraph 
(s) of this AD. For a repair method to be approved, the repair must 
meet the certification basis of the airplane, and the approval must 
specifically reference this AD. As of the effective date of this AD, 
any new repair approval must be done using a method approved in 
accordance with the procedures specified in paragraph (s) of this 
AD.

(j) Retained Concurrent Requirements

    (1) This paragraph restates the requirements of paragraph (j) of 
AD 2005-14-07, Amendment 39-14184 (70 FR 39647, July 11, 2005), with 
new paragraph reference. For Model 727 airplanes listed in Boeing 
727 Service Bulletin 57-59, Revision 1, dated September 27, 1965: 
Before or at the same time with the requirements of paragraph (i) or 
(o) of this AD, install guide blocks and bushings in the midflap 
ribs in accordance with the Accomplishment Instructions of Boeing 
727 Service Bulletin 57-59, Revision 1, dated September 27, 1965.
    (2) This paragraph restates the requirements of paragraph (k) of 
AD 2005-14-07, Amendment 39-14184 (70 FR 39647, July 11, 2005), with 
new paragraph reference. For Model 727 airplanes listed in Boeing 
Service Bulletin 727-27-133, Revision 1, dated May 9, 1972: Before 
or at the same time with the requirements of paragraph (i) or (o) of 
this AD, do the actions specified in paragraphs (j)(2)(i) and 
(j)(2)(ii) of this AD, as applicable.
    (i) For Groups I and II airplanes identified in Boeing Service 
Bulletin 727-27-133, Revision 1, dated May 9, 1972: Do a one-time 
inspection of the airload support roller for travel on the foreflap 
track in accordance with Part I of the Accomplishment Instructions 
of Boeing Service Bulletin 727-27-133, Revision 1, dated May 9, 
1972.
    (A) If the airload support roller travels within the limits 
specified in Boeing Service Bulletin 727-27-133, Revision 1, dated 
May 9, 1972, modify the control drum of the inboard flap and inboard 
jackscrews of the outboard flap, in accordance with Part II of the 
Accomplishment Instructions of Boeing Service Bulletin 727-27-133, 
Revision 1, dated May 9, 1972.
    (B) If the airload support roller travels beyond the limits 
specified in Boeing Service Bulletin 727-27-133, Revision 1, dated 
May 9, 1972, repair in accordance with a method approved by the 
Manager, Seattle ACO, or Los Angeles ACO, FAA; or in accordance with 
data meeting the type certification basis of the airplane approved 
by an AR for the Boeing DOA Organization who has been authorized by 
the FAA to make such

[[Page 38805]]

findings, or using a method approved in accordance with the 
procedures specified in paragraph (s) of this AD. For a repair 
method to be approved, the repair must meet the certification basis 
of the airplane, and the approval must specifically reference this 
AD. As of the effective date of this AD, any new repair approval 
must be done using a method approved in accordance with the 
procedures specified in paragraph (s) of this AD.
    (ii) For Group III airplanes identified in Boeing Service 
Bulletin 727-27-133, Revision 1, dated May 9, 1972: Modify the 
inboard jackscrews of the outboard flap (i.e., replacing the down 
stop at the inboard jackscrews of the outboard flap) in accordance 
with Part II of the Accomplishment Instructions of Boeing Service 
Bulletin 727-27-133, Revision 1, dated May 9, 1972.
    (3) This paragraph restates the requirements of paragraph (l) of 
AD 2005-14-07, Amendment 39-14184 (70 FR 39647, July 11, 2005), with 
new paragraph reference. For Model 727 airplanes listed in Boeing 
727 Service Bulletin 57-72, dated September 21, 1966: Before or at 
the same time with the requirements of paragraph (i) or (o) of this 
AD, do the actions specified in paragraphs (j)(3)(i) through 
(j)(3)(iv) of this AD.
    (i) Chamfer the upper and lower flanges at the aft end of the 
foreflap tracks in accordance with the Accomplishment Instructions 
of Boeing 727 Service Bulletin 57-72, dated September 21, 1966.
    (ii) Do a standard magnetic particle inspection of the entire 
foreflap tracks for cracks in accordance with the Accomplishment 
Instructions of Boeing 727 Service Bulletin 57-72, dated September 
21, 1966. If any crack is detected, before further flight, repair in 
accordance with a method approved by the Manager, Seattle ACO, or 
Los Angeles ACO, FAA; or in accordance with data meeting the type 
certification basis of the airplane approved by an AR for the Boeing 
DOA Organization who has been authorized by the FAA to make such 
findings, or using a method approved in accordance with the 
procedures specified in paragraph (s) of this AD. For a repair 
method to be approved, the repair must meet the certification basis 
of the airplane, and the approval must specifically reference this 
AD. As of the effective date of this AD, any new repair approval 
must be done using a method approved in accordance with the 
procedures specified in paragraph (s) of this AD.
    (iii) Do a general visual inspection of the track rib faces at 
the front and rear spars to verify if the opening in the spars is 
flush with or clear of the plane of the rib faces, in accordance 
with the Accomplishment Instructions of Boeing 727 Service Bulletin 
57-72, dated September 21, 1966. If the opening is not flush or 
clear with the plane, before further flight, rework the spar opening 
in accordance with the Accomplishment Instructions of Boeing 727 
Service Bulletin 57-72, dated September 21, 1966.
    (iv) Do a general visual inspection of the head or shank of 
bolts by securing the foreflap links to the foreflap tracks to 
verify if they protrude beyond the edge of the track flange in 
accordance with the Accomplishment Instructions of Boeing 727 
Service Bulletin 57-72, dated September 21, 1966. If the head or 
shank of the bolts protrude beyond the edge of the track flange, 
before further flight, rework in accordance with the Accomplishment 
Instructions of Boeing 727 Service Bulletin 57-72, dated September 
21, 1966.
    (v) For the purposes of this AD, a general visual inspection is 
defined as: ``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 
enhance visual access to all exposed surfaces in the inspection 
area. This level of inspection is made under normally available 
lighting conditions such as daylight, hangar lighting, flashlight, 
or droplight and may require removal or opening of access panels or 
doors. Stands, ladders, or platforms may be required to gain 
proximity to the area being checked.''
    (4) This paragraph restates the requirements of paragraph (m) of 
AD 2005-14-07, Amendment 39-14184 (70 FR 39647, July 11, 2005), with 
a new paragraph identifier. For airplanes other than those 
identified in the service information specified in paragraphs (j)(1) 
through (j)(3) of this AD: Before or at the same time with the 
requirements of paragraph (i) or (o) of this AD, do an inspection to 
verify if any of the parts listed in the ``Spares Affected'' 
paragraph of each service information referenced in paragraphs 
(j)(1) through (j)(3) of this AD are installed on the airplane. If 
any part identified in that paragraph is found installed, before 
further flight, do the applicable corrective and investigative 
action(s) specified in paragraphs (j)(1) through (j)(3) of this AD.

(k) Retained Optional Terminating Actions

    This paragraph restates the requirements of paragraph (n) of AD 
2005-14-07, Amendment 39-14184 (70 FR 39647, July 11, 2005), with no 
changes. Replacement of the two carriage attach fittings on the 
inboard and outboard foreflaps of each wing with new, improved 
fittings, in accordance with the Accomplishment Instructions of 
Boeing Alert Service Bulletin 727-57A0135, Revision 3, dated June 
27, 2002; and accomplishment of the actions specified in paragraphs 
(j)(1) through (j)(4) of this AD, as applicable, before or 
concurrently with the replacement; constitutes terminating action 
for paragraphs (g) through (j) of this AD and paragraph (l) of this 
AD for those replaced fittings on the outboard and inboard 
foreflaps.

(l) Retained Optional Deferral of Inspection

    This paragraph restates the optional deferral of paragraph (o) 
of AD 2005-14-07, Amendment 39-14184 (70 FR 39647, July 11, 2005), 
with no changes. Replacement of the two carriage attach fittings on 
the inboard and outboard foreflaps of each wing with new fittings 
having the same part number as the existing fittings, in accordance 
with the Accomplishment Instructions of Boeing Alert Service 
Bulletin 727-57A0135, Revision 3, dated June 27, 2002; and 
accomplishment of the actions specified in paragraphs (j)(1) through 
(j)(4) of this AD, as applicable, before or concurrently with the 
replacement; defers the next inspection required by paragraph (g) of 
this AD for 10,000 flight cycles after the replacement. Thereafter, 
repeat the inspections required by paragraph (g) of this AD at 
intervals not to exceed 1,000 flight cycles, except as required by 
paragraph (m) of this AD.

(m) New Requirement of This AD: Detailed and HFEC Inspections of 
Outboard Foreflaps, With Reduced Repetitive Intervals

    Within 1,000 flight cycles after the most recent accomplishment 
of the inspections required by paragraph (g) of this AD, do a 
detailed inspection to detect cracks and surface deviations on all 
edges, surfaces, and lug attachment fastener holes, and a HFEC 
inspection to detect cracks at the lug attachment fastener holes, on 
the two carriage attach fittings on the outboard foreflaps of each 
wing, in accordance with the Accomplishment Instructions of Boeing 
Alert Service Bulletin 727-57A0135, Revision 4, dated September 26, 
2012, and do all applicable corrective actions required by paragraph 
(h) of this AD. Repeat the inspections thereafter at intervals not 
to exceed 200 flight cycles until the requirements of paragraph (o) 
of this AD is accomplished. Accomplishing the requirements of this 
paragraph terminates the requirements of paragraph (g) of this AD 
for the outboard foreflaps only.

(n) New Requirement of This AD: Inspection and Check of Outboard 
Foreflap Installation and Corrective Action

    Within 200 flight cycles or 6 months after the effective date of 
this AD, whichever occurs first, do a general visual inspection and 
function check for damage and incorrect operation of the outboard 
foreflap installations, and all applicable corrective actions, in 
accordance with the Accomplishment Instructions of Boeing Alert 
Service Bulletin 727-57A0135, Revision 4, dated September 26, 2012. 
Do the applicable corrective actions before further flight. 
Thereafter, repeat the inspection and check at intervals not to 
exceed 500 flight cycles.

(o) New Requirement of This AD: Replacement of Previously Un-Replaced 
(or ``Original Configuration'') Carriage Attach Fittings on the 
Outboard Foreflap

    For airplanes on which any production carriage attach fitting is 
still installed on the outboard foreflap: Within 3,000 flight cycles 
or 3 years after the effective date of this AD, whichever occurs 
first, replace all production carriage attach fittings with new, 
improved carriage attach fittings, in accordance with the 
Accomplishment Instructions of Boeing Alert Service Bulletin 727-
57A0135, Revision 4, dated September 26, 2012, and do all applicable 
concurrent actions required by paragraph (k) of this AD. 
Accomplishing the requirements of this paragraph terminates the 
requirements of paragraphs (g) and (m) of this AD for outboard 
foreflaps only.

[[Page 38806]]

(p) New Requirement of This AD: Inspection, Corrective Action and 
Replacement of Fittings Replaced in Accordance With Paragraph (l) of 
This AD

    For airplanes on which a new carriage attach fitting with the 
original part number on the outboard foreflap was installed in 
accordance with paragraph (l) of this AD: Do the actions specified 
in paragraphs (p)(1) and (p)(2) of this AD.
    (1) Within 1,000 flight cycles after the effective date of this 
AD, do a detailed inspection for cracks and surface deviation on all 
edges surfaces, and lug attachment fastener holes, and a HFEC 
inspection for cracks at the lug attachment fastener holes, on the 
carriage attach fittings for the outboard foreflaps, and do all 
applicable corrective actions, in accordance with the Accomplishment 
Instructions of Boeing Alert Service Bulletin 727-57A0135, Revision 
4, dated September 26, 2012. Repeat the inspection at intervals not 
to exceed 200 flight cycles. Do all applicable corrective actions 
before further flight.
    (2) Within 3,000 flight cycles or 3 years after the effective 
date of this AD, replace the fitting with a new, improved fitting in 
accordance with the Accomplishment Instructions of Boeing Alert 
Service Bulletin 727-57A0135, Revision 4, dated September 26, 2012. 
Accomplishing the requirements of this paragraph terminates the 
requirements of paragraphs (g), (m), and (p)(1) of this AD for that 
outboard foreflap only.

(q) New Requirement of This AD: Inspection and Corrective Actions on 
Fittings Replaced According to Paragraph (k), (o), or (p) of This AD on 
Outboard Foreflaps

    For airplanes on which a new, improved carriage attach fitting 
on the outboard foreflap was replaced in accordance with the 
requirements of paragraph (k), (o), or (p) of this AD: Within 20,000 
flight cycles after installing that fitting, do a detailed 
inspection for cracks and surface deviation on all edges surfaces, 
and lug attachment fastener holes, and a HFEC inspection for cracks 
at the lug attachment fastener holes, on the carriage attach 
fittings for the outboard foreflaps, and do all applicable 
corrective actions, in accordance with the Accomplishment 
Instructions of Boeing Alert Service Bulletin 727-57A0135, Revision 
4, dated September 26, 2012. Do all applicable corrective actions 
before further flight. Repeat the inspection thereafter at intervals 
not to exceed 1,400 flight cycles. Accomplishing the requirements of 
this paragraph terminates the requirements of paragraph (g) of this 
AD for outboard foreflaps only.

(r) Retained Credit for Previously Accomplished Service Bulletins

    (1) This paragraph restates the credit provided by paragraph (p) 
of AD 2005-14-07, Amendment 39-14184 (70 FR 39647, July 11, 2005), 
with no changes. Installations accomplished before August 15, 2005 
(the effective date of AD 2005-14-07), in accordance with Boeing 727 
Service Bulletin 57-59, dated September 2, 1965, are acceptable for 
compliance with the requirements of paragraph (j)(1) of this AD.
    (2) This paragraph restates the credit provided by paragraph (q) 
of AD 2005-14-07, Amendment 39-14184 (70 FR 39647, July 11, 2005), 
with no changes. Inspections and modifications accomplished before 
August 15, 2005 (the effective date of AD 2005-14-07), in accordance 
with Boeing Service Bulletin 727-27-133, dated October 7, 1971, are 
acceptable for compliance with the requirements of paragraph (j)(2) 
of this AD.

(s) Alternative Methods of Compliance (AMOCs)

    (1) The Manager, Los Angeles Aircraft Certification Office 
(ACO), 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 manager of the ACO, send it to the 
attention of the person identified in paragraph (u) of this AD. 
Information may be emailed to: [email protected].
    (2) 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.
    (3) An AMOC that provides an acceptable level of safety may be 
used for any repair required by this AD if it is approved by the 
Boeing Commercial Airplanes Organization Designation Authorization 
(ODA) that has been authorized by the Manager, Los Angeles ACO, to 
make those findings. For a repair method to be approved, the repair 
must meet the certification basis of the airplane, and the approval 
must specifically refer to this AD.
    (4) AMOCs approved for AD 2005-14-07, Amendment 39-14184 (70 FR 
39647, July 11, 2005), are approved as AMOCs for the corresponding 
provisions of this AD.

(t) Related Information

    (1) For more information about this AD, contact Chandraduth 
Ramdoss, Aerospace Engineer, Airframe Branch, ANM-120L, FAA, Los 
Angeles Aircraft Certification Office, 3960 Paramount Boulevard, 
Lakewood, CA 90712-4137; phone: 562-627-5239; fax: 562-627-5210; 
email [email protected].
    (2) For service information identified in this AD, contact 
Boeing Commercial Airplanes, Attention: Data & Services Management, 
P.O. Box 3707, MC 2H-65, Seattle, WA 98124-2207; telephone 206-544-
5000, extension 1; fax 206-766-5680; Internet https://www.myboeingfleet.com. You may view this referenced service 
information at the FAA, Transport Aircraft Directorate, 1601 Lind 
Avenue SW., Renton, WA. For information on the availability of this 
material at the FAA, call 425-227-1221.

    Issued in Renton, Washington, on June 27, 2014.
John P. Piccola,
Acting Manager, Transport Aircraft Directorate, Aircraft Certification 
Service.
[FR Doc. 2014-15986 Filed 7-8-14; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE 4910-13-P