[Federal Register Volume 84, Number 41 (Friday, March 1, 2019)]
[Proposed Rules]
[Pages 6981-6984]
From the Federal Register Online via the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]
[FR Doc No: 2019-03431]
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DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION
Federal Aviation Administration
14 CFR Part 39
[Docket No. FAA-2019-0114; Product Identifier 2018-NM-146-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 adopt a new airworthiness directive (AD) for all
The Boeing Company Model 737 series airplanes. This proposed AD was
prompted by a report that structural fatigue cracks can develop in
certain aluminum pressure module check valves prior to the design
limit. This proposed AD would require an inspection to determine the
part numbers of the four hydraulic systems A and B pressure module
check valves and applicable on-condition actions. We are proposing this
AD to address the unsafe condition on these products.
DATES: We must receive comments on this proposed AD by April 15, 2019.
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.
For service information identified in this NPRM, contact Boeing
Commercial Airplanes, Attention: Contractual & Data Services (C&DS),
2600 Westminster Blvd., MC 110-SK57, Seal Beach, CA 90740-5600;
telephone 562-797-1717; internet https://www.myboeingfleet.com. You may
view this referenced service information at the FAA, Transport
Standards Branch, 2200 South 216th St., Des Moines, WA. For information
on the availability of this material at the FAA, call 206-231-3195. It
is also available on the internet at http://www.regulations.gov by
searching for and locating Docket No. FAA-2019-0114.
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-2019-
0114; or in person at Docket Operations between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m.,
Monday through Friday, except Federal holidays. The AD docket contains
this NPRM, the regulatory evaluation, any comments received, and other
information. The street address for Docket Operations (phone: 800-647-
5527) is in the ADDRESSES section. Comments will be
[[Page 6982]]
available in the AD docket shortly after receipt.
FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Douglas Tsuji, Aerospace Engineer,
Systems and Equipment Section, FAA, Seattle ACO Branch, 2200 South
216th St., Des Moines, WA 98198; phone and fax: 206-231-3548; email:
[email protected].
SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION:
Comments Invited
We invite you to send any written relevant data, views, or
arguments about this proposal. Send your comments to an address listed
under the ADDRESSES section. Include ``Docket No. FAA-2019-0114;
Product Identifier 2018-NM-146-AD'' at the beginning of your comments.
We specifically invite comments on the overall regulatory, economic,
environmental, and energy aspects of this NPRM. We will consider all
comments received by the closing date and may amend this NPRM 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
We have received a report indicating that structural fatigue cracks
can develop in certain aluminum pressure module check valves installed
in the hydraulic systems A and B pressure modules prior to the design
limit. We have determined that it is necessary to replace Parker
pressure module check valves, which are made of aluminum, with Crissair
pressure module check valves, which are manufactured with stainless
steel, which is not susceptible to fractures. Structural fatigue cracks
in a check valve, if not addressed, could cause separation of the check
valve head from the check valve body when hydraulic pressure is
applied, resulting in injuries to maintenance personnel.
Related Service Information Under 1 CFR Part 51
We reviewed the following service information.
Boeing Special Attention Requirements Bulletin 737-29-1123
RB, dated October 2, 2018.
Boeing Special Attention Requirements Bulletin 737-29-1126
RB, dated October 2, 2018.
Boeing Special Attention Requirements Bulletin 737-29-1127
RB, dated October 8, 2018.
These documents are distinct since they apply to different airplane
models. The service information describes procedures for an inspection
to determine the part numbers of the four hydraulic systems A and B
pressure module check valves and applicable on-condition actions. On-
condition actions include replacement of Parker pressure module check
valves, part number H61C0552M1, with Crissair pressure module check
valves, part number 1C4196.
This service information is reasonably available because the
interested parties have access to it through their normal course of
business or by the means identified in the ADDRESSES section.
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 require accomplishment of the actions
identified in the service information described previously, except as
described under ``Differences Between Service Information and Proposed
AD,'' and except for any differences identified as exceptions in the
regulatory text of this proposed AD.
For information on the procedures and compliance times, see this
service information at http://www.regulations.gov by searching for and
locating Docket No. FAA-2019-0114.
Explanation of Requirements Bulletin
The FAA worked in conjunction with industry, under the
Airworthiness Directive Implementation Aviation Rulemaking Committee
(AD ARC), to enhance the AD system. One enhancement is a process for
annotating which steps in the service information are ``required for
compliance'' (RC) with an AD. Boeing has implemented this RC concept
into Boeing service bulletins.
In an effort to further improve the quality of ADs and AD-related
Boeing service information, a joint process improvement initiative was
worked between the FAA and Boeing. The initiative resulted in the
development of a new process in which the service information more
clearly identifies the actions needed to address the unsafe condition
in the ``Accomplishment Instructions.'' The new process results in a
Boeing Requirements Bulletin, which contains only the actions needed to
address the unsafe condition (i.e., only the RC actions).
Difference Between Service Information and Proposed AD
The effectivity of Boeing Special Attention Requirements Bulletin
737-29-1123 RB, dated October 2, 2018, is limited to Boeing Model 737-
600, -700, -700C, -800, -900, and -900ER airplanes, line numbers 1
through 7032 inclusive. However, the applicability of this proposed AD
includes all Boeing Model 737-600, -700, -700C, -800, -900, and -900ER
airplanes. Because the affected parts are rotable parts, we have
determined that these parts could later be installed on airplanes that
were initially delivered with acceptable parts, thereby subjecting
those airplanes to the unsafe condition. This difference has been
coordinated with Boeing.
The effectivity of Boeing Special Attention Requirements Bulletin
737-29-1126 RB, dated October 2, 2018, is limited to Boeing Model 737-8
and 737-9 airplanes, line numbers 5602 through 7050 inclusive. However,
the applicability of this proposed AD includes all Boeing Model 737-8
and 737-9 airplanes, and any future 737 series derivative model.
Because the affected parts are rotable parts, we have determined that
these parts could later be installed on airplanes that were initially
delivered with acceptable parts, thereby subjecting those airplanes to
the unsafe condition. This difference has been coordinated with Boeing.
Costs of Compliance
We estimate that this proposed AD affects 1,747 airplanes of U.S.
registry. We estimate the following costs to comply with this proposed
AD:
Estimated Costs for Required Actions
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Cost per Cost on U.S.
Action Labor cost Parts cost product operators
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Inspection for Parker pressure module 1 work-hour x $85 per $0 $85 $148,495
check valves, part number H61C0552M1. hour = $85.
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[[Page 6983]]
We estimate the following costs to do any necessary on-condition
actions (per check valve replacement) that would be required. We have
no way of determining the number of aircraft that might need these on-
condition actions:
Estimated Costs of On-Condition Actions
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Cost per
Labor cost Parts cost product
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2 work-hours x $85 per hour = $170.... $6,652 $6,822
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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.
This proposed AD is issued in accordance with authority delegated
by the Executive Director, Aircraft Certification Service, as
authorized by FAA Order 8000.51C. In accordance with that order,
issuance of ADs is normally a function of the Compliance and
Airworthiness Division, but during this transition period, the
Executive Director has delegated the authority to issue ADs applicable
to transport category airplanes and associated appliances to the
Director of the System Oversight Division.
Regulatory Findings
We 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 this 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 adding the following new airworthiness
directive (AD):
The Boeing Company: Docket No. FAA-2019-0114; Product Identifier
2018-NM-146-AD.
(a) Comments Due Date
We must receive comments by April 15, 2019.
(b) Affected ADs
None.
(c) Applicability
This AD applies to all The Boeing Company Model 737 series
airplanes, certificated in any category.
(d) Subject
Air Transport Association (ATA) of America Code 29, Hydraulic
power.
(e) Unsafe Condition
This AD was prompted by a report indicating that structural
fatigue cracks can develop in certain aluminum pressure module check
valves prior to the design limit. We are issuing this AD to address
structural fatigue cracks in certain aluminum check valves, which
could cause separation of the check valve head from the check valve
body when hydraulic pressure is applied, resulting in injuries to
maintenance personnel.
(f) Compliance
Comply with this AD within the compliance times specified,
unless already done.
(g) Required Actions
(1) For airplanes identified as Group 1 in Boeing Special
Attention Requirements Bulletin 737-29-1127 RB, dated October 8,
2018: Within 120 days after the effective date of this AD, inspect
the airplane and do all applicable on-condition actions using a
method approved in accordance with the procedures specified in
paragraph (j) of this AD.
(2) Except as specified by paragraph (h)(3) of this AD: For
airplanes identified as Groups 2 and 3 in Boeing Special Attention
Requirements Bulletin 737-29-1127 RB, dated October 8, 2018; at the
applicable times specified in the ``Compliance'' paragraph of Boeing
Special Attention Requirements Bulletin 737-29-1127 RB, dated
October 8, 2018, do all applicable actions identified in, and in
accordance with, the Accomplishment Instructions of Boeing Special
Attention Requirements Bulletin 737-29-1127 RB, dated October 8,
2018.
Note 1 to paragraphs (g)(2) through (g)(4) of this AD: Guidance
for accomplishing the actions required by this AD can be found in
Boeing Special Attention Service Bulletin 737-29-1123, dated October
2, 2018; Boeing Special Attention Service Bulletin 737-29-1126,
dated October 2, 2018; and Boeing Special Attention Service Bulletin
737-29-1127, dated October 8, 2018; which are referred to in Boeing
Special Attention Requirements Bulletin 737-29-1123 RB, dated
October 2, 2018; Boeing Special Attention Requirements Bulletin 737-
29-1126 RB, dated October 2, 2018; or Boeing Special Attention
Requirements Bulletin 737-29-1127 RB, dated October 8, 2018.
(3) Except as specified by paragraph (h)(1) of this AD: For
Boeing Model 737-600, -700, -700C, -800, -900, and -900ER airplanes
that have an original certificate of airworthiness or export
certificate of airworthiness issued on or before the effective date
of this AD; at the applicable times specified in the ``Compliance''
paragraph of Boeing Special Attention Requirements Bulletin 737-29-
1123 RB, dated October 2, 2018, do all applicable actions identified
in, and in accordance with, the Accomplishment Instructions of
Boeing Special Attention Requirements Bulletin 737-29-1123 RB, dated
October 2, 2018.
(4) Except as specified by paragraph (h)(2) of this AD: For
Boeing Model 737-8 and 737-9 airplanes that have an original
certificate of airworthiness or export certificate of airworthiness
issued on or before the
[[Page 6984]]
effective date of this AD; at the applicable times specified in the
``Compliance'' paragraph of Boeing Special Attention Requirements
Bulletin 737-29-1126 RB, dated October 2, 2018, do all applicable
actions identified in, and in accordance with, the Accomplishment
Instructions of Boeing Special Attention Requirements Bulletin 737-
29-1126 RB, dated October 2, 2018.
(h) Exceptions to Service Information Specifications
For purposes of determining compliance with the requirements of
this AD:
(1) Where Boeing Special Attention Requirements Bulletin 737-29-
1123 RB, dated October 2, 2018, uses the phrase ``the original issue
date of Requirements Bulletin 737-29-1123 RB,'' this AD requires
using ``the effective date of this AD.''
(2) Where Boeing Special Attention Requirements Bulletin 737-29-
1126 RB, dated October 2, 2018, uses the phrase ``the original issue
date of Requirements Bulletin 737-29-1126 RB,'' this AD requires
using ``the effective date of this AD.''
(3) Where Boeing Special Attention Requirements Bulletin 737-29-
1127 RB, dated October 8, 2018, uses the phrase ``the original issue
date of Requirements Bulletin 737-29-1127 RB,'' this AD requires
using ``the effective date of this AD.''
(i) Parts Installation Prohibition
As of the effective date of this AD, no person may install a
Parker pressure module check valve, part number H61C0552M1, or
hydraulic pressure module assembly, part number 65-17821-() that
contains a Parker pressure module check valve, part number
H61C0552M1, on any airplane.
(j) Alternative Methods of Compliance (AMOCs)
(1) The Manager, Seattle ACO Branch, 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 certification office, send it to the attention of the
person identified in paragraph (k)(1) 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, modification, or alteration required by this AD
if it is approved by the Boeing Commercial Airplanes Organization
Designation Authorization (ODA) that has been authorized by the
Manager, Seattle ACO Branch, FAA, to make those findings. To be
approved, the repair method, modification deviation, or alteration
deviation must meet the certification basis of the airplane, and the
approval must specifically refer to this AD.
(k) Related Information
(1) For more information about this AD, contact Douglas Tsuji,
Aerospace Engineer, Systems and Equipment Section, FAA, Seattle ACO
Branch, 2200 South 216th St., Des Moines, WA 98198; phone and fax:
206-231-3548; email: [email protected].
(2) For service information identified in this AD, contact
Boeing Commercial Airplanes, Attention: Contractual & Data Services
(C&DS), 2600 Westminster Blvd., MC 110-SK57, Seal Beach, CA 90740-
5600; telephone 562-797-1717; internet https://www.myboeingfleet.com. You may view this referenced service
information at the FAA, Transport Standards Branch, 2200 South 216th
St., Des Moines, WA. For information on the availability of this
material at the FAA, call 206-231-3195.
Issued in Des Moines, Washington, on February 22, 2019.
Dionne Palermo,
Acting Director, System Oversight Division, Aircraft Certification
Service.
[FR Doc. 2019-03431 Filed 2-28-19; 8:45 am]
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