[Federal Register Volume 84, Number 47 (Monday, March 11, 2019)]
[Rules and Regulations]
[Pages 8598-8604]
From the Federal Register Online via the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]
[FR Doc No: 2019-03786]


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

DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION

Federal Aviation Administration

14 CFR Part 39

[Docket No. FAA-2018-0762; Product Identifier 2018-NM-033-AD; Amendment 
39-19580; AD 2019-03-28]
RIN 2120-AA64


Airworthiness Directives; Airbus SAS Airplanes

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

ACTION: Final rule.

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

SUMMARY: We are superseding Airworthiness Directive (AD) 2016-07-23, 
which applied to all Airbus SAS Model A318 and A319 series airplanes; 
Model A320-211, A320-212, A320-214, A320-216, A320-231, A320-232, and 
A320-233 airplanes; and Model A321-111, A321-112, A321-131, A321-211, 
A321-212, A321-213, A321-231, and A321-232 airplanes. AD 2016-07-23 
required, for certain airplanes, repetitive replacements of the fixed 
fairing upper and lower attachment studs of both the left-hand (LH) and 
right-hand (RH) main landing gear (MLG); and repetitive inspections for 
corrosion, wear, fatigue cracking, and loose studs of each forward stud 
assembly of the fixed fairing door upper and lower forward attachments 
of both the LH and RH MLG; and replacement if necessary. AD 2016-07-23 
also provided an optional terminating modification for the repetitive 
replacements of the fixed fairing upper and lower attachment studs. 
This AD retains the requirements of AD 2016-07-23 and, for certain 
airplanes, requires re-identification of the LH and RH MLG fixed 
fairing assemblies' part numbers. This AD was prompted by a 
determination that for some airplane configurations, associated fixed 
fairing assembly part numbers susceptible to fatigue cracking were not 
listed in certain service information required by AD 2016-07-23. In 
addition, we have determined that additional work is necessary to re-
identify the fixed fairing assembly part

[[Page 8599]]

number on certain airplanes. We are issuing this AD to address the 
unsafe condition on these products.

DATES: This AD is effective April 15, 2019.
    The Director of the Federal Register approved the incorporation by 
reference of a certain publication listed in this AD as of April 15, 
2019.
    The Director of the Federal Register approved the incorporation by 
reference of certain other publications listed in this AD as of June 6, 
2016 (81 FR 26115, May 2, 2016).

ADDRESSES: For service information identified in this final rule, 
contact Airbus SAS, Airworthiness Office--EIAS, Rond-Point Emile 
Dewoitine No: 2, 31700 Blagnac Cedex, France; telephone +33 5 61 93 36 
96; fax +33 5 61 93 44 51; email [email protected]; 
internet http://www.airbus.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-2018-0762.

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-2018-
0762; 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 final rule, the regulatory evaluation, any comments received, and 
other information. The address for Docket Operations (phone: 800-647-
5527) is U.S. Department of Transportation, Docket Operations, M-30, 
West Building Ground Floor, Room W12-140, 1200 New Jersey Avenue SE, 
Washington, DC 20590.

FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Sanjay Ralhan, Aerospace Engineer, 
International Section, Transport Standards Branch, FAA, 2200 South 
216th St., Des Moines, WA 98198; telephone and fax 206-231-3223.

SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION:

Discussion

    We issued a notice of proposed rulemaking (NPRM) to amend 14 CFR 
part 39 to supersede AD 2016-07-23, Amendment 39-18468 (81 FR 26115, 
May 2, 2016) (``AD 2016-07-23''). AD 2016-07-23 applied to all Airbus 
SAS Model A318 and A319 series airplanes; Model A320-211, A320-212, 
A320-214, A320-216, A320-231, A320-232, and A320-233 airplanes; and 
Model A321-111, A321-112, A321-131, A321-211, A321-212, A321-213, A321-
231, and A321-232 airplanes. The NPRM published in the Federal Register 
on August 31, 2018 (83 FR 44516). The NPRM was prompted by a 
determination that since we issued AD 2016-07-23, for some airplane 
configurations, associated fixed fairing assembly part numbers 
susceptible to fatigue cracking were not listed in certain service 
information required by AD 2016-07-23. In addition, we have determined 
that additional work is necessary to re-identify the fixed fairing 
assembly part number on certain airplanes. The NPRM proposed to retain 
the requirements of AD 2016-07-23 and, for certain airplanes, require 
re-identification of the LH and RH MLG fixed fairing assemblies' part 
numbers. The NPRM also proposed to provide an optional terminating 
modification for the repetitive replacements of the fixed fairing upper 
and lower attachment studs. We are issuing this AD to address in-flight 
detachment of an MLG fixed fairing and consequent damage to the 
airplane.
    The European Aviation Safety Agency (EASA), which is the Technical 
Agent for the Member States of the European Union, has issued EASA AD 
2018-0023, dated January 26, 2018; corrected February 5, 2018 (referred 
to after this as the Mandatory Continuing Airworthiness Information, or 
``the MCAI''); to correct an unsafe condition for all Airbus SAS Model 
A318 and A319 series airplanes; all Airbus SAS Model A320-211, A320-
212, A320-214, A320-216, A320-231, A320-232, and A320-233 airplanes; 
and all Airbus SAS Model A321-111, A321-112, A321-131, A321-211, A321-
212, A321-213, A321-231, and A321-232 airplanes. The MCAI states:

    Several occurrences were reported of in-flight loss of main 
landing gear (MLG) fixed and hinged fairings. The majority of 
reported events occurred following scheduled maintenance activities. 
One result of the investigation was that a discrepancy between the 
drawing and the maintenance manuals was discovered. The maintenance 
documents were corrected to prevent mis-rigging of the MLG fixed and 
hinged fairings, which could induce fatigue cracking.
    Prompted by these findings, Airbus issued Service Bulletin (SB) 
A320-52-1083, providing instructions for a one-time inspection of 
the MLG fixed fairing composite insert and the surrounding area, 
replacement of the adjustment studs at the lower forward position 
and adjustment to the new clearance tolerances. That SB was replaced 
by Airbus SB A320-52-1100 (modification (mod) 27716) introducing a 
re-designed location stud, rod end and location plate at the forward 
upper and lower leg fixed-fairing positions. Subsequently, reports 
were received of post-mod 27716/post-SB A320-52-1100 MLG fixed 
fairing assemblies with corrosion, which could also induce cracking.
    This condition, if not detected and corrected, could lead to 
further cases of in-flight detachment of a MLG fixed fairing, 
possibly resulting in injury to persons on the ground and/or damage 
to the aeroplane.
    To address this potential unsafe condition, EASA issued AD 2014-
0096 to require repetitive detailed inspections (DET) of the MLG 
fixed fairings, and, depending on findings, accomplishment of 
applicable corrective actions. That [EASA] AD also prohibited 
installation of certain MLG fixed fairing rod end assemblies and 
studs as replacement parts on aeroplanes incorporating Airbus mod 
27716 in production, or modified in accordance with Airbus SB A320-
52-1100 (any revision) in service.
    Since EASA AD 2014-0096 was issued, Airbus developed an 
alternative inspection programme to meet the [EASA] AD requirements. 
In addition, a terminating action (mod 155648) was developed, which 
was made available for in-service aeroplanes through Airbus SB A320-
52-1165.
    Consequently, EASA issued AD 2015-0001 (later revised), 
retaining the requirements of EASA AD 2014-0096, which was 
superseded, and adding an optional terminating action for the 
repetitive inspections. For post-mod aeroplanes, i.e. incorporating 
Airbus mod 155648 in production, or modified by Airbus SB A320-52-
1165 in service, the only remaining requirement was to ensure that 
pre-mod components are no longer installed.
    Since EASA AD 2015-0001R1 [which corresponds to FAA AD 2016-07-
23] was issued, Airbus revised SB A320-52-1165 to include additional 
work, to re-identify the fairing assembly part number (P/N). During 
the preparation of this additional work, it was noted that several 
configurations and associated P/N were not listed in the original 
SB, which may have an impact on aeroplanes on which SB A320-52-1165 
original issue or Revision (rev.) 01 was already accomplished. It 
has also been noticed that the instructions for reidentification of 
two P/N were not correct in revision 02 of this SB.
    For the reasons described above, this [EASA] AD retains the 
requirement of EASA AD 2015-0001R1, which is superseded, but 
requires using the SB at rev. 03.
    This [EASA] AD also requires accomplishment of additional work 
[re-identification of the part number for the LH and RH MLG fixed 
fairing assemblies] for those aeroplanes on which parts were 
replaced in accordance with the instructions of Airbus SB A320-52-
1165 at original issue, rev. 01 or rev. 02 and correct 
(re)identification as applicable.

    You may examine the MCAI in the AD docket on the internet at http://www.regulations.gov by searching for and locating Docket No. FAA-2018-
0762.

[[Page 8600]]

Comments

    We gave the public the opportunity to participate in developing 
this final rule. The following presents the comments received on the 
NPRM and the FAA's response to each comment.

Support for the NPRM

    United Airlines stated that it agreed with the intent of the NPRM.

Request To Refer to Revised Service Information

    United Airlines requested that paragraphs (i), (k), (l), (m) and 
(q) of the proposed AD be revised to refer to Airbus Service Bulletin 
A320-52-1163, Revision 02, dated May 11, 2018, rather than Airbus 
Service Bulletin A320-52-1163, Revision 01, including Appendix 01, 
dated June 22, 2015. The commenter noted that Airbus made a number of 
updates and clarifications in Airbus Service Bulletin A320-52-1163, 
Revision 02, dated May 11, 2018, and that EASA AD 2018-0023 allows for 
use of later approved revisions of Airbus Service Bulletin A320-52-
1163, Revision 01, dated June 22, 2015. In addition, the commenter 
pointed out that the FAA issued alternative method of compliance (AMOC) 
letter AIR-676-18-331, dated August 14, 2018, which permits all 
operators with airplanes affected by AD 2016-07-23 to use Airbus 
Service Bulletin A320-52-1163, Revision 02, dated May 11, 2018, instead 
of Airbus Service Bulletin A320-52-1163, Revision 01, including 
Appendix 01, dated June 22, 2015.
    We disagree with the commenter's request to change the final rule 
to refer to Airbus Service Bulletin A320-52-1163, Revision 02, dated 
May 11, 2018. Airbus Service Bulletin A320-52-1163, Revision 02, dated 
May 11, 2018, would expand the requirements of the proposed AD because 
it modifies the work steps for the removal of cover plates. To change 
the requirements of the proposed AD would necessitate (under the 
provisions of the Administrative Procedure Act) reissuing the notice, 
reopening the period for public comment, considering additional 
comments subsequently received, and eventually issuing a final rule. 
That procedure could add unwarranted time to the rulemaking process.
    However, we note that paragraph (v)(1)(ii) of this AD states that 
AMOCs approved previously for AD 2016-07-23 are approved as AMOCs for 
the corresponding provisions of this AD. This provision allows 
operators to utilize the AMOC included in letter AIR-676-18-331, dated 
August 14, 2018, for completing the applicable actions required by this 
AD; that AMOC identifies new revisions of the applicable service 
information as an appropriate source of service information.
    Regarding the use of ``or later approved'' revisions of service 
information, we may not refer to any document that does not yet exist. 
In general terms, we are required by Office of the Federal Register 
(OFR) regulations for approval of materials incorporated by reference, 
as specified in 1 CFR 51.1(f), to either publish the service document 
contents as part of the actual AD language; or submit the service 
document to the OFR for approval as referenced material, in which case 
we may only refer to such material in the text of an AD. The AD may 
refer to the service document only if the OFR approved it for 
incorporation by reference. See 1 CFR part 51. To allow operators to 
use later revisions of the referenced document (issued after 
publication of the AD), either we must revise the AD to reference 
specific later revisions, or operators must request approval to use 
later revisions as an AMOC with this AD under the provisions of 
paragraph (v)(1) of this AD. We have not revised this AD in regard to 
this issue.

Request To Remove Redundant Paragraphs

    Delta Air Lines recommended that paragraphs (s) and (t) of the 
proposed AD be deleted. The commenter stated that paragraph (s) of the 
proposed AD appears to be redundant to paragraph (n) of the proposed 
AD, with the exception that it does not include references to 
paragraphs (h) and (j) of the proposed AD. The commenter requested 
clarification as to why paragraph (s) of the proposed AD is needed in 
addition to paragraph (n) of the proposed AD, and why paragraphs (h) 
and (j) of the proposed AD were not included in paragraph (s) of the 
proposed AD but were included in paragraph (n) of the proposed AD. 
Furthermore, the commenter observed that paragraph (t) of the proposed 
AD appears to be redundant to paragraph (p) of the proposed AD and 
requested why both paragraphs are needed since they appear to require 
the same action.
    We disagree with the commenter's request to delete paragraphs (s) 
and (t) of this AD; however, we do agree to provide clarification. The 
seemingly redundant paragraphs are a result of our method for 
superseding an AD. To ensure the continuity of the required actions 
between the existing AD (the AD being superseded, in this case AD 2016-
07-23) and the effective date of the new AD, we restate the pertinent 
requirements of the existing AD and identify the new requirements of 
this AD. In this AD paragraphs (g) through (q) are the restated 
requirements of AD 2016-07-23, and the new requirements are paragraphs 
(r) through (t) of this AD.
    Paragraph (s) of this AD is new information regarding terminating 
action and is applicable starting on the effective date of this AD. 
Paragraphs (n)(1), (n)(2), and (n)(3) of this AD include restated 
requirements from AD 2016-07-23 and became effective on June 6, 2016, 
the effective date of AD 2016-07-23. However, in addition to the 
restated requirements, paragraph (n)(3) of this AD was updated to refer 
to the latest revision of the service information: Airbus Service 
Bulletin A320-52-1165, Revision 03, excluding Appendix 01 and including 
Appendix 02, dated November 9, 2017.
    Paragraph (s) of this AD also refers to Airbus Service Bulletin 
A320-52-1165, Revision 03, excluding Appendix 01 and including Appendix 
02, dated November 9, 2017, which was issued after the publication of 
AD 2016-07-23. Airbus Service Bulletin A320-52-1165, Revision 03, 
excluding Appendix 01 and including Appendix 02, dated November 9, 
2017, includes, for some airplane configurations, associated fixed 
fairing assembly part numbers susceptible to fatigue cracking that were 
not listed in the retained service information referred to in paragraph 
(n)(3) of AD 2016-07-23. We acknowledge paragraph (n)(3) of this AD 
does include redundant information since it refers to Airbus Service 
Bulletin A320-52-1165, Revision 03, excluding Appendix 01 and including 
Appendix 02, dated November 9, 2017, in addition to the retained 
service information.
    The reason paragraphs (h) and (j) of this AD were not referenced in 
paragraph (s) of this AD is because it is only necessary to identify 
the required actions terminated by paragraph (s) of this AD. Paragraphs 
(h) and (j) of this AD include the compliance times only. Once the 
corresponding requirements are terminated, the compliance times in 
paragraphs (h) and (j) of this AD are no longer relevant. However, for 
clarity and consistency with references in paragraph (n)(3) of this AD, 
we have revised paragraph (s) of this AD to refer to paragraphs (g) 
through (m) of this AD.
    In regard to the apparent redundancy between paragraphs (p) and (t) 
of this AD, we agree clarification is needed. Paragraph (t) of this AD 
includes new information regarding the parts installation prohibition 
and is applicable starting on the effective date of this AD. The 
compliance time for the

[[Page 8601]]

parts installation prohibition specified in paragraph (t)(2) of this AD 
depends on whether an airplane is in a pre- or post-Airbus Modification 
155648 or pre-or post-Airbus Service Bulletin A320-52-1165, Revision 
03, excluding Appendix 01 and including Appendix 02, dated November 9, 
2017, configuration.
    Paragraph (p) of this AD is the restated parts installation 
prohibition from AD 2016-07-23, which became effective on June 6, 2016, 
the effective date of AD 2016-07-23. In the restatement in paragraphs 
(p)(2) and (p)(4) of the proposed AD, we inadvertently did not include 
the effective date of June 6, 2016. We have revised paragraphs (p)(2) 
and (p)(4) of this AD to include the effective date of AD 2016-07-23. 
In addition, we have revised paragraph (p) of this AD to clarify that 
the prohibition specified in paragraph (p) of this AD is applicable 
only until the effective date of this AD and that on the effective date 
of this AD, the prohibition specified in paragraph (t) of this AD must 
be complied with.

Conclusion

    We reviewed the relevant data, considered the comments received, 
and determined that air safety and the public interest require adopting 
this final rule as proposed, except for minor editorial changes. We 
have determined that these minor changes:
     Are consistent with the intent that was proposed in the 
NPRM for addressing the unsafe condition; and
     Do not add any additional burden upon the public than was 
already proposed in the NPRM.
    We also determined that these changes will not increase the 
economic burden on any operator or increase the scope of this final 
rule

Related Service Information Under 1 CFR Part 51

    Airbus has issued the following service information.
     Airbus Service Bulletin A320-52-1100, Revision 01, dated 
March 12, 1999, which the Director of the Federal Register approved for 
incorporation by reference as of June 6, 2016 (81 FR 26115, May 2, 
2016).
     Airbus Service Bulletin A320-52-1163, Revision 01, 
including Appendix 01, dated June 22, 2015, which the Director of the 
Federal Register approved for incorporation by reference as of June 6, 
2016 (81 FR 26115, May 2, 2016).
     Airbus Service Bulletin A320-52-1165, Revision 03, 
excluding Appendix 01 and including Appendix 02, dated November 9, 
2017. The service information describes procedures for replacing the 
fixed fairing attachment stud assemblies of the MLG door assembly with 
new assemblies, and re-identifying the part number of the LH and RH MLG 
fixed fairing assemblies. The actions in this service information are 
an optional terminating modification.
    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.

Costs of Compliance

    We estimate that this AD affects 901 airplanes of U.S. registry. We 
estimate the following costs to comply with this AD:

                                                 Estimated Costs
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                                                 Cost on U.S.
                    Labor cost                          Parts cost        Cost per product        operators
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
18 work-hours x $85 per hour = $1,530............              $4,110               $5,640          $5,081,640.
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------


                                      Estimated Costs For Optional Actions
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                   Labor cost                               Parts cost                   Cost per product
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Up to 18 work-hours x $85 per hour = $1,530....  Up to $4,110...................  Up to $5,640.
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

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

                                               On-Condition Costs
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                   Labor cost                               Parts cost                   Cost per product
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Up to 20 work-hours x $85 per hour = $1,700....  Up to $4,110...................  Up to $5,810.
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

    According to the manufacturer, some or all of the costs of this AD 
may be covered under warranty, thereby reducing the cost impact on 
affected individuals. We do not control warranty coverage for affected 
individuals. As a result, we have included all costs in our cost 
estimate.

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

[[Page 8602]]

products identified in this rulemaking action.
    This 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 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 that 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);
    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.

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 Airworthiness Directive (AD) 
2016-07-23, Amendment 39-18468 (81 FR 26115, May 2, 2016), and adding 
the following new AD:

2019-03-28 Airbus SAS: Amendment 39-19580; Docket No. FAA-2018-0762; 
Product Identifier 2018-NM-033-AD.

(a) Effective Date

    This AD is effective April 15, 2019.

(b) Affected ADs

    This AD replaces AD 2016-07-23, Amendment 39-18468 (81 FR 26115, 
May 2, 2016) (``AD 2016-07-23'').

(c) Applicability

    This AD applies to the Airbus SAS airplanes identified in 
paragraphs (c)(1) through (c)(4) of this AD, certificated in any 
category, all manufacturer serial numbers.
    (1) Model A318-111, A318-112, A318-121, and A318-122 airplanes.
    (2) Model A319-111, A319-112, A319-113, A319-114, A319-115, 
A319-131, A319-132, and A319-133 airplanes.
    (3) Model A320-211, A320-212, A320-214, A320-216, A320-231, 
A320-232, and A320-233 airplanes.
    (4) Model A321-111, A321-112, A321-131, A321-211, A321-212, 
A321-213, A321-231, and A321-232 airplanes.

(d) Subject

    Air Transport Association (ATA) of America Code 52, Doors.

(e) Reason

    This AD was prompted by reports of in-flight loss of fixed and 
hinged main landing gear (MLG) fairings, and reports of post-
modification MLG fixed fairing assemblies that have wear and 
corrosion. This AD was also prompted by a determination that for 
some airplane configurations, associated fixed fairing assembly part 
numbers susceptible to fatigue cracking were not listed in certain 
service information required by AD 2016-07-23. In addition, we have 
determined that additional work is necessary to re-identify the 
fixed fairing assembly part number on certain airplanes. We are 
issuing this AD to prevent in-flight detachment of an MLG fixed 
fairing and consequent damage to the airplane.

(f) Compliance

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

(g) Retained Repetitive Replacements, With No Changes

    This paragraph restates the requirements of paragraph (g) of AD 
2016-07-23, with no changes. For airplanes in pre-Airbus 
Modification 27716 and pre-Airbus Service Bulletin A320-52-1100 
configuration, with any of the components installed that are 
identified in paragraphs (g)(1) through (g)(5) of this AD: At the 
applicable compliance time specified in paragraph (h) of this AD, 
replace fixed fairing upper and lower attachment studs of both left-
hand (LH) and right-hand (RH) MLG, in accordance with the 
Accomplishment Instructions of Airbus Service Bulletin A320-52-1163, 
Revision 01, including Appendix 01, dated June 22, 2015. Repeat the 
replacements thereafter at intervals not to exceed 6,500 flight 
cycles.
    (1) Plate--support having part number (P/N) D5284024820000.
    (2) Plate--support having P/N D5284024820200.
    (3) Stud--adjustment having P/N D5284024420000.
    (4) Rod end assembly (lower) having P/N D5284000500000.
    (5) Rod end assembly (upper) having P/N D5284000600000.

(h) Retained Compliance Times for the Requirements of Paragraph (g) of 
This AD, With No Changes

    This paragraph restates the requirements of paragraph (h) of AD 
2016-07-23, with no changes. For airplanes identified in paragraph 
(g) of this AD, except as provided by paragraph (o) of this AD: Do 
the initial replacement required by paragraph (g) of this AD at the 
latest of the times specified in paragraphs (h)(1) through (h)(4) of 
this AD.
    (1) Before the accumulation of 6,500 total flight cycles since 
the airplane's first flight.
    (2) Within 6,500 flight cycles since the last installation of a 
pre-Airbus Modification 27716 stud on the airplane.
    (3) Within 1,500 flight cycles after June 6, 2016 (the effective 
date of AD 2016-07-23).
    (4) Within 8 months after June 6, 2016 (the effective date of AD 
2016-07-23).

(i) Retained Repetitive Inspections, With No Changes

    This paragraph restates the requirements of paragraph (i) of AD 
2016-07-23, with no changes. For airplanes in post-Airbus 
Modification 27716 or post-Airbus Service Bulletin A320-52-1100 
configuration, with any of the components installed that are 
identified in paragraphs (i)(1), (i)(2), and (i)(3) of this AD: At 
the applicable compliance time specified in paragraph (j) of this 
AD, do a detailed inspection of the LH and RH MLG forward stud 
assemblies of the fixed fairing door upper and lower forward 
attachments of both LH and RH MLG for indications of corrosion, 
wear, fatigue cracking, and loose studs, in accordance with the 
Accomplishment Instructions of Airbus Service Bulletin A320-52-1163, 
Revision 01, including Appendix 01, dated June 22, 2015. Repeat the 
detailed inspection thereafter at intervals not to exceed 12 months. 
Replacement of both LH and RH MLG forward stud assemblies on an 
airplane, in accordance with the Accomplishment Instructions of 
Airbus Service Bulletin A320-52-1163, Revision 01, including 
Appendix 01, dated June 22, 2015, extends the interval for the next 
detailed inspection to 72 months; and the inspection must be 
repeated thereafter at intervals not to exceed 12 months.
    (1) Stud--adjustment having P/N D5285600720000.
    (2) Rod end assembly (lower) having P/N D5285600400000.
    (3) Rod end assembly (upper) having P/N D5285600500000.

(j) Retained Compliance Times for the Requirements of Paragraph (i) of 
This AD, With No Changes

    This paragraph restates the requirements of paragraph (j) of AD 
2016-07-23, with no changes. For airplanes identified in paragraph 
(i) of this AD, except as provided by paragraph (o) of this AD: Do 
the initial inspection required by paragraph (i) of this

[[Page 8603]]

AD at the latest of the times specified in paragraphs (j)(1) through 
(j)(4) of this AD.
    (1) Before the accumulation of 72 months since the airplane's 
first flight.
    (2) Within 72 months since the last installation of a post-
Airbus Modification 27716 assembly or since accomplishment of the 
actions specified in Airbus Service Bulletin A320-52-1100.
    (3) Within 1,500 flight cycles after June 6, 2016 (the effective 
date of AD 2016-07-23).
    (4) Within 8 months after June 6, 2016 (the effective date of AD 
2016-07-23).

(k) Retained Corrective Action, With Revised Service Information

    This paragraph restates the requirements of paragraph (k) of AD 
2016-07-23, with revised service information. If any discrepancy 
(including any indication of corrosion, wear, fatigue cracking, or 
loose studs) of any MLG forward stud assembly is found during any 
inspection required by paragraph (i) of this AD, except as specified 
in paragraph (l) of this AD: Before further flight, replace the 
discrepant upper and lower fixed fairing forward stud assemblies of 
the LH and RH MLG, in accordance with the Accomplishment 
Instructions of Airbus Service Bulletin A320-52-1163, Revision 01, 
including Appendix 01, dated June 22, 2015; or Airbus Service 
Bulletin A320-52-1165, Revision 01, dated October 23, 2015, 
excluding Appendix 01, dated November 3, 2014, and including 
Appendix 02, dated October 23, 2015; or Airbus Service Bulletin 
A320-52-1165, Revision 03, excluding Appendix 01 and including 
Appendix 02, dated November 9, 2017. As of the effective date of 
this AD only Airbus Service Bulletin A320-52-1163, Revision 01, 
including Appendix 01, dated June 22, 2015; or Airbus Service 
Bulletin A320-52-1165, Revision 03, excluding Appendix 01 and 
including Appendix 02, dated November 9, 2017, may be used.

(l) Retained Corrective Action or Repetitive Inspections for Certain 
Corrosion Findings, With Revised Service Information

    This paragraph restates the requirements of paragraph (l) of AD 
2016-07-23, with revised service information. If any corrosion is 
found during any inspection required by paragraph (i) of this AD on 
any MLG fixed fairing forward stud assembly (upper, lower, LH or 
RH), but the corroded stud is not loose: Do the action specified in 
paragraph (l)(1) or (l)(2) of this AD.
    (1) Before further flight, replace the affected assembly, in 
accordance with the Accomplishment Instructions of Airbus Service 
Bulletin A320-52-1163, Revision 01, including Appendix 01, dated 
June 22, 2015; or Airbus Service Bulletin A320-52-1165, Revision 01, 
dated October 23, 2015, excluding Appendix 01, dated November 3, 
2014, and including Appendix 02, dated October 23, 2015; or Airbus 
Service Bulletin A320-52-1165, Revision 03, excluding Appendix 01 
and including Appendix 02, dated November 9, 2017. As of the 
effective date of this AD only Airbus Service Bulletin A320-52-1163, 
Revision 01, including Appendix 01, dated June 22, 2015; or Airbus 
Service Bulletin A320-52-1165, Revision 03, excluding Appendix 01 
and including Appendix 02, dated November 9, 2017, may be used.
    (2) Within 4 months after finding corrosion, and thereafter at 
intervals not to exceed 4 months, do a detailed inspection for 
indications of corrosion, wear, fatigue cracking, and loose studs of 
the forward stud assembly of the affected (LH or RH) MLG, in 
accordance with the Accomplishment Instructions of Airbus Service 
Bulletin A320-52-1163, Revision 01, including Appendix 01, dated 
June 22, 2015.

(m) Retained Corrective Action for Inspections Specified in Paragraph 
(l)(2) of This AD, With Revised Service Information

    This paragraph restates the requirements of paragraph (m) of AD 
2016-07-23, with revised service information. If any indication of 
wear, fatigue cracking, or loose studs of any forward stud assembly 
is found during any inspection required by paragraph (l)(2) of this 
AD: Before further flight, replace the affected (LH or RH) MLG fixed 
fairing forward stud assembly, in accordance with the Accomplishment 
Instructions of Airbus Service Bulletin A320-52-1163, Revision 01, 
including Appendix 01, dated June 22, 2015; or Airbus Service 
Bulletin A320-52-1165, Revision 01, dated October 23, 2015, 
excluding Appendix 01, dated November 3, 2014, and including 
Appendix 02, dated October 23, 2015; or Airbus Service Bulletin 
A320-52-1165, Revision 03, excluding Appendix 01 and including 
Appendix 02, dated November 9, 2017. As of the effective date of 
this AD only Airbus Service Bulletin A320-52-1163, Revision 01, 
including Appendix 01, dated June 22, 2015; or Airbus Service 
Bulletin A320-52-1165, Revision 03, excluding Appendix 01 and 
including Appendix 02, dated November 9, 2017, may be used.

(n) Retained Terminating Action, With Revised Service Information

    This paragraph restates the requirements of paragraph (n) of AD 
2016-07-23, with revised service information.
    (1) Replacement of parts on an airplane, as required by 
paragraph (g), (k), (l)(1), or (m) of this AD, does not constitute 
terminating action for the repetitive inspections required by 
paragraph (i) of this AD, except as specified in paragraph (n)(3) of 
this AD.
    (2) The repetitive replacements required by paragraph (g) of 
this AD may be terminated by modification of the airplane to post-
Airbus Modification 27716 configuration, including a resonance 
frequency inspection for debonding of the composite insert and 
delamination of the honeycomb area around the insert, and all 
applicable corrective actions, in accordance with the Accomplishment 
Instructions of Airbus Service Bulletin A320-52-1100, Revision 01, 
dated March 12, 1999, provided all applicable corrective actions are 
done before further flight. Thereafter, refer to paragraph (i) of 
this AD to determine the compliance time for the next detailed 
inspection required by this AD.
    (3) Modification of an airplane, in accordance with the 
Accomplishment Instructions of Airbus Service Bulletin A320-52-1165, 
Revision 01, dated October 23, 2015, excluding Appendix 01, dated 
November 3, 2014, and including Appendix 02, dated October 23, 2015; 
or Airbus Service Bulletin A320-52-1165, Revision 03, excluding 
Appendix 01 and including Appendix 02, dated November 9, 2017, 
constitutes terminating action for actions required by paragraphs 
(g) through (m) of this AD for the airplane on which the 
modification is done. As of the effective date of this AD only 
Airbus Service Bulletin A320-52-1165, Revision 03, excluding 
Appendix 01 and including Appendix 02, dated November 9, 2017, may 
be used.

(o) Retained Exceptions to Certain AD Actions, With No Changes

    This paragraph restates the requirements of paragraph (o) of AD 
2016-07-23, with no changes. An airplane on which Airbus 
Modification 155648 has been embodied in production is not affected 
by the requirements of paragraphs (g) and (i) of this AD, provided 
that no affected component, identified by part number as specified 
in paragraphs (g)(1) through (g)(5) and (i)(1) through (i)(3) of 
this AD, has been installed on that airplane since first flight of 
the airplane.

(p) Retained Parts Installation Prohibition, With a Change to 
Compliance Requirements

    This paragraph restates the requirements of paragraph (p) of AD 
2016-07-23, with a change to compliance requirements. Comply with 
this parts installation prohibition paragraph until the effective 
date of this AD. As of the effective date of this AD, comply with 
paragraph (t) of this AD.
    (1) For airplanes in pre-Airbus Modification 27716 or pre-Airbus 
Service Bulletin A320-52-1100 configuration: No person may install a 
component identified in paragraphs (g)(1) through (g)(5) of this AD 
on any airplane after doing the actions provided in paragraph (n)(2) 
of this AD.
    (2) For airplanes in post-Airbus Modification 27716 or post 
Airbus Service Bulletin A320-52-1100 configuration: As of June 6, 
2016 (the effective date of AD 2016-07-23), no person may install a 
component identified in paragraphs (g)(1) through (g)(5) of this AD 
on any airplane.
    (3) For airplanes in pre-Airbus Modification 155648 or pre-
Airbus Service Bulletin A320-52-1165 configuration: No person may 
install a component identified in paragraphs (g)(1) through (g)(5) 
and (i)(1) through (i)(3) of this AD on any airplane after doing the 
actions provided in paragraph (n)(3) of this AD.
    (4) For airplanes in post-Airbus Modification 155648 or post-
Airbus Service Bulletin A320-52-1165 configuration: As of June 6, 
2016 (the effective date of AD 2016-07-23), no person may install a 
component identified in (g)(1) through (g)(5) and (i)(1) through 
(i)(3) of this AD on any airplane.

(q) Retained No Reporting Requirement, With No Changes

    This paragraph restates the requirements of paragraph (q) of AD 
2016-07-23, with no changes. Although Airbus Service Bulletin A320-
52-1163, Revision 01, including Appendix 01, dated June 22, 2015, 
specifies

[[Page 8604]]

to submit certain information to the manufacturer, and specifies 
that action as ``RC'' (Required for Compliance), this AD does not 
include that requirement.

(r) New Requirement of This AD: Additional Work

    For any airplane on which, before the effective date of this AD, 
any part was installed or replaced, in accordance with the 
Accomplishment Instructions of Airbus Service Bulletin A320-52-1165, 
dated November 3, 2014; Revision 01, dated October 13, 2015; or 
Revision 02, dated February 12, 2016: Within 12 months after the 
effective date of this AD, accomplish the instructions identified as 
``additional work'' in the Accomplishment Instructions of Airbus 
Service Bulletin A320-52-1165, Revision 03, excluding Appendix 01 
and including Appendix 02, dated November 9, 2017, as applicable to 
the airplane configuration.

(s) New Terminating Action

    Modification of an airplane in accordance with the 
Accomplishment Instructions of Airbus Service Bulletin A320-52-1165, 
Revision 03, excluding Appendix 01 and including Appendix 02, dated 
November 9, 2017, or as specified in paragraph (r) of this AD 
constitutes terminating action for the requirements of paragraphs 
(g) through (m) of this AD for that airplane.

(t) New Parts Installation Prohibition

    (1) Do not install on any airplane a component specified in 
paragraphs (g)(1) through (g)(5) of this AD, as required by 
paragraph (t)(1)(i) or (t)(1)(ii) of this AD, as applicable.
    (i) For airplanes in pre-Airbus Modification 27716 or pre-Airbus 
Service Bulletin A320-52-1100 configuration: After completing the 
optional modification specified in paragraph (n)(2) of this AD.
    (ii) For airplanes in post-Airbus Modification 27716 or post 
Airbus Service Bulletin A320-52-1100 configuration: As of the 
effective date of this AD.
    (2) Do not install on any airplane a component specified in 
paragraphs (g)(1) through (g)(5) of this AD or paragraphs (i)(1) 
through (i)(3) of this AD, as required by paragraph (t)(2)(i) or 
(t)(2)(ii) of this AD, as applicable.
    (i) For airplanes in pre-Airbus Modification 155648 or pre-
Airbus Service Bulletin A320-52-1165, Revision 03, excluding 
Appendix 01 and including Appendix 02, dated November 9, 2017, 
configuration: After completion of the additional work required by 
paragraph (r) of this AD.
    (ii) For airplanes in post-Airbus Modification 155648 or post-
Airbus Service Bulletin A320-52-1165, Revision 03, excluding 
Appendix 01 and including Appendix 02, dated November 9, 2017, 
configuration: As of the effective date of this AD.

(u) Credit for Previous Actions

    (1) This paragraph provides credit for optional actions provided 
by paragraph (n)(2) of this AD, if those actions were performed 
before the effective date of this AD using Airbus Service Bulletin 
A320-52-1100, dated December 7, 1998, which was not previously 
incorporated by reference.
    (2) This paragraph provides credit for the actions required by 
paragraphs (g), (i), (k), (l), and (m) of this AD, if those actions 
were performed before the effective date of this AD using Airbus 
Service Bulletin A320-52-1163, dated February 4, 2014, which was not 
previously incorporated by reference.
    (3) This paragraph provides credit for the actions required by 
paragraphs (k), (l)(1), (m), and (n)(3) of this AD if those actions 
were performed before the effective date of this AD using Airbus 
Service Bulletin A320-52-1165, Revision 01, dated October 23, 2015, 
excluding Appendix 01, dated November 3, 2014, and including 
Appendix 02, dated October 23, 2015, which was previously 
incorporated by reference in AD 2016-07-23.

(v) Other FAA AD Provisions

    (1) Alternative Methods of Compliance (AMOCs): The Manager, 
International Section, Transport Standards 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 International Section, send it to the attention of 
the person identified in paragraph (w)(2) of this AD. Information 
may be emailed to: [email protected].
    (i) 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.
    (ii) AMOCs approved previously for AD 2016-07-23 are approved as 
AMOCs for the corresponding provisions of this AD.
    (2) Contacting the Manufacturer: As of the effective date of 
this AD, for any requirement in this AD to obtain corrective actions 
from a manufacturer, the action must be accomplished using a method 
approved by the Manager, International Section, Transport Standards 
Branch, FAA; or the European Aviation Safety Agency (EASA); or 
Airbus SAS's EASA Design Organization Approval (DOA). If approved by 
the DOA, the approval must include the DOA-authorized signature.
    (3) Required for Compliance (RC): Except as specified by 
paragraph (q) of this AD: If any service information contains 
procedures or tests that are identified as RC, those procedures and 
tests must be done to comply with this AD; any procedures or tests 
that are not identified as RC are recommended. Those procedures and 
tests that are not identified as RC may be deviated from using 
accepted methods in accordance with the operator's maintenance or 
inspection program without obtaining approval of an AMOC, provided 
the procedures and tests identified as RC can be done and the 
airplane can be put back in an airworthy condition. Any 
substitutions or changes to procedures or tests identified as RC 
require approval of an AMOC.

(w) Related Information

    (1) Refer to Mandatory Continuing Airworthiness Information 
(MCAI) EASA AD 2018-0023, dated January 26, 2018; corrected February 
5, 2018; for related information. This MCAI may be found in the AD 
docket on the internet at http://www.regulations.gov by searching 
for and locating Docket No. FAA-2018-0762.
    (2) For more information about this AD, contact Sanjay Ralhan, 
Aerospace Engineer, International Section, Transport Standards 
Branch, FAA, 2200 South 216th St., Des Moines, WA 98198; telephone 
and fax 206-231-3223.
    (3) Service information identified in this AD that is not 
incorporated by reference is available at the addresses specified in 
paragraphs (x)(5) and (x)(6) of this AD.

(x) Material Incorporated by Reference

    (1) The Director of the Federal Register approved the 
incorporation by reference (IBR) of the service information listed 
in this paragraph under 5 U.S.C. 552(a) and 1 CFR part 51.
    (2) You must use this service information as applicable to do 
the actions required by this AD, unless this AD specifies otherwise.
    (3) The following service information was approved for IBR on 
April 15, 2019.
    (i) Airbus Service Bulletin A320-52-1165, Revision 03, excluding 
Appendix 01 and including Appendix 02, dated November 9, 2017.
    (ii) [Reserved]
    (4) The following service information was approved for IBR on 
June 6, 2016 (81 FR 26115, May 2, 2016).
    (i) Airbus Service Bulletin A320-52-1100, Revision 01, dated 
March 12, 1999.
    (ii) Airbus Service Bulletin A320-52-1163, Revision 01, 
including Appendix 01, dated June 22, 2015.
    (5) For service information identified in this AD, contact 
Airbus SAS, Airworthiness Office--EIAS, Rond-Point Emile Dewoitine 
No: 2, 31700 Blagnac Cedex, France; telephone +33 5 61 93 36 96; fax 
+33 5 61 93 44 51; email [email protected]; internet 
http://www.airbus.com.
    (6) You may view this 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.
    (7) You may view this 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/cfr/ibr-locations.html.

    Issued in Des Moines, Washington, on February 22, 2019.
Jeffrey E. Duven,
Director, System Oversight Division, Aircraft Certification Service.
[FR Doc. 2019-03786 Filed 3-8-19; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE 4910-13-P