[Federal Register Volume 84, Number 119 (Thursday, June 20, 2019)]
[Rules and Regulations]
[Pages 28719-28722]
From the Federal Register Online via the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]
[FR Doc No: 2019-13059]
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DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION
Federal Aviation Administration
14 CFR Part 39
[Docket No. FAA-2018-1068; Product Identifier 2018-NM-140-AD; Amendment
39-19655; AD 2019-11-09]
RIN 2120-AA64
Airworthiness Directives; Airbus SAS Airplanes
AGENCY: Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), Department of
Transportation (DOT).
ACTION: Final rule.
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SUMMARY: The FAA is adopting a new airworthiness directive (AD) for all
Airbus SAS Model A319-113 and -114 airplanes, and Model A320-211 and -
212 airplanes. This AD was prompted by a report that a life-limit of
64,000 flight cycles has been established for certain titanium
crossbeams of the forward engine mount. This AD requires repetitive
replacements of all affected crossbeams of the forward engine mount, as
specified in European Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) ADs, which are
incorporated by reference. The FAA is issuing this AD to address the
unsafe condition on these products.
DATES: This AD is effective July 25, 2019.
The Director of the Federal Register approved the incorporation by
reference of certain publications listed in this AD as of July 25,
2019.
ADDRESSES: For the material incorporated by reference (IBR) in this
final rule, contact the EASA, Konrad-Adenauer-Ufer 3, 50668 Cologne,
Germany; telephone +49 221 89990 1000; email [email protected];
internet www.easa.europa.eu. You may find this IBR material on the EASA
website at https://ad.easa.europa.eu. You may view this IBR material 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 in the AD docket on the
internet at http://www.regulations.gov.
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-
1068; 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 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
The FAA issued a notice of proposed rulemaking (NPRM) to amend 14
CFR part 39 by adding an AD that would apply to all Airbus SAS Model
A319-113 and -114 airplanes, and Model A320-211 and -212 airplanes. The
NPRM published in the Federal Register on February 7, 2019 (84 FR
2465). The NPRM was prompted by a report that a life-limit of 64,000
flight cycles has been established for certain titanium crossbeams of
the forward engine mount. The NPRM proposed to require repetitive
replacements of all affected crossbeams of the forward engine mount.
The FAA is issuing this AD to address failure of a crossbeam of the
forward engine mount, which could result in detachment of the engine
and
[[Page 28720]]
consequent reduced controllability of the airplane.
The EASA, which is the Technical Agent for the Member States of the
European Union, has issued EASA AD 2018-0212R1, dated March 28, 2019
(``EASA AD 2018-0212R1'') (also referred to as the Mandatory Continuing
Airworthiness Information, or ``the MCAI''), to correct an unsafe
condition for all Airbus SAS Model A319-113 and -114 airplanes, and
Model A320-211 and -212 airplanes. The MCAI states:
The forward engine mount crossbeam of the CFM56-5A engine, [part
number] P/N 238-0204-501, is made of titanium. A life limit of
64,000 FC [flight cycles] has been demonstrated. Due to potential
transferability of a crossbeam from one aeroplane to another, it is
necessary to track the life of this part and to remove it before
exceeding the life limit.
This condition, if not corrected, could lead to forward engine
mount crossbeam failure, possibly resulting in engine detachment in
flight and consequent reduced control of the aeroplane.
To address this potential unsafe condition, Airbus published the
SB [Service Bulletin A320-71-1073, dated June 8, 2018], providing
instructions to identify the P/N of the crossbeam installed on an
aeroplane and to remove affected crossbeam before exceeding the life
limit. Airbus also issued SB A320-71-1076, providing modification
instructions for installation of improved forward engine mount steel
crossbeams P/N 642-2002-503. Consequently, EASA issued AD 2018-0212
[which was referred to as the appropriate source of service
information for accomplishing the actions specified in the FAA
NPRM], requiring the implementation of the new life limit for the
affected crossbeams.
Since that [EASA] AD was issued, following a re-assessment of
comments received during the consultation period of [Proposed
Airworthiness Directive] PAD 18-091 which preceded EASA AD 2018-
0212, EASA agrees that an affected crossbeam having P/N 238-0204-501
can be (re)installed on any aeroplane, provided its accumulated life
is less than the applicable life limit.
For the reason described above, this [EASA] AD is revised
accordingly.
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-
1068.
Comments
The FAA 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
Donovan Twiddle, Jr., agreed that the proposed AD should be
implemented.
Request for Exception to EASA AD Requirement
Delta Air Lines (DAL) asked that the proposed AD include an
exception to the language in paragraph (2) of EASA AD 2018-2012, which
specifies ``Replacing on an aeroplane any affected crossbeam with
crossbeam having P/N 642-2002-503 in accordance with instructions
provided by Airbus is an acceptable alternative method to comply with
the requirements of paragraph (1) of this [EASA] AD, provided that,
following modification, no affected crossbeam is installed on that
aeroplane.'' DAL stated that omitting the language ``provided that,
following modification, no affected crossbeam is installed on that
aeroplane'' would allow for the crossbeam having P/N 642-2002-503 to be
managed like any other CFM56 life-limited engine component, while
continuing to prohibit installing a crossbeam that has been modified to
have P/N 642-2002-503.
DAL pointed out that, since the NPRM was published, the EASA has
issued EASA AD 2018-0212R1, which addresses its original request
(described previously) and, therefore, requested that the NPRM be
revised to refer to EASA AD 2018-0212R1 as the appropriate source of
information for complying with the proposed AD.
The FAA agrees that this final rule should refer to EASA AD 2018-
0212R1 for accomplishing the required actions. As noted by the
commenter, paragraph (2) of EASA AD 2018-0212R1 does not contain the
language ``provided that, following modification, no affected crossbeam
is installed on that aeroplane.'' The agency determined that no
additional work is required for airplanes that have accomplished the
actions as required by EASA AD 2018-0212, dated September 28, 2018
(``EASA AD 2018-0212''). Therefore, the agency has revised all
applicable sections in this final rule to also specify EASA AD 2018-
0212R1.
Request To Revise Crossbeam Accumulated Life Definition
DAL asked that the FAA revise the proposed AD to include a revised
definition of crossbeam accumulated life. DAL stated that it received
information from Airbus indicating that the data contained in the life
estimation tables of EASA AD 2018-0212 and EASA AD 2018-0212R1, and in
Airbus Service Bulletin A320-71-1073, dated June 8, 2018, and Revision
01, dated January 3, 2019, was generated using 2015 fleet utilization
data. DAL noted that Airbus has received updated fleet utilization data
from 2017 that better estimates the flight cycle count for operators,
and substantiates a compliance window later than the January 31, 2019
date required by EASA AD 2018-0212 and EASA AD 2018-0212R1, and the
referenced service information. DAL added that there are operators that
have the ability to trace the actual accumulated mount assembly and
crossbeam flight cycles from dates earlier than ``Life estimation done
on'' date of the life estimation tables included in Appendix 01 of EASA
AD 2018-0212 and EASA AD 2018-0212R1. DAL explained that Airbus has
been able to provide operators with an accumulated life estimation that
takes Airbus's updated fleet utilization Monte Carlo counting method
and the operator's actual flight cycle data into account. DAL went on
to explain that the updated Monte Carlo counting method also includes
crossbeams where the date of manufacture was not explicitly known and
was assumed to be before January 1, 1988. For crossbeams where the date
of manufacture was not identified, DAL stated that it believes the use
of Airbus data and maintenance records, while still assuming a date of
manufacture before January 1, 1988, would not adversely affect the
level of safety of the airplane. By still assuming the worst case
scenario for the date of manufacture, DAL asserted that the most
conservative estimate for crossbeam accumulated life is still being
used. DAL provided a revised definition of crossbeam accumulated life,
and stated that the proposed definition would allow operators to use
the updated Monte Carlo counting method from Airbus and maintenance
records for all crossbeams, as well as also taking into account the
fact that the final rule should require the use of ``total flight
cycles.''
The FAA does not agree with the commenter's request. The agency has
not received any new life estimation data either from EASA or Airbus,
other than that referenced in EASA AD 2018-0212R1. After the NPRM
comment period closed, the FAA contacted EASA; EASA confirmed that the
life estimation table in Appendix 1 of EASA AD 2018-0212R1 is based on
the latest data received from Airbus. In addition, the agency does not
have access to the latest data referenced by DAL. In order to calculate
flight cycles based on new fleet utilization information received from
Airbus, which would allow DAL to continue operation with the affected
part later than EASA's estimation, DAL may request approval of an
alternative method of compliance (AMOC) under
[[Page 28721]]
the provisions of paragraph (i)(1) of this AD. The FAA has not changed
this AD regarding this issue.
Conclusion
The FAA reviewed the relevant data, considered the comments
received, and determined that air safety and the public interest
require adopting this final rule with the changes described previously
and minor editorial changes. The FAA has 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.
The FAA has also determined that these changes will not increase
the economic burden on any operator or increase the scope of this final
rule.
Related IBR Material Under 1 CFR Part 51
EASA ADs 2018-0212 and 2018-0212R1 describe procedures for
repetitive replacements of all affected crossbeams of the forward
engine mount and an optional replacement as an acceptable method of
compliance for the required replacement. These documents are distinct
since AD 2018-0212R1 includes updated requirements and definitions, and
references updated service information. This material 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
The FAA estimates that this AD affects 59 airplanes of U.S.
registry. The FAA estimates the following costs to comply with this AD:
Estimated Costs for Required Actions
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Labor cost Parts cost Cost per product Cost on U.S. operators
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Up to 134 work-hours x $85 per hour = Up to $23,278.......... Up to $34,668.......... Up to $2,045,412.
Up to $11,390.
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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.
The FAA is 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 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
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) Will not affect intrastate aviation in Alaska, and
(3) Will not have a significant economic impact, positive or
negative, on a substantial number of small entities under the criteria
of the Regulatory Flexibility Act.
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 adding the following new airworthiness
directive (AD):
2019-11-09 Airbus SAS: Amendment 39-19655; Docket No. FAA-2018-1068;
Product Identifier 2018-NM-140-AD.
(a) Effective Date
This AD is effective July 25, 2019.
(b) Affected ADs
None.
(c) Applicability
This AD applies to all Airbus SAS Model A319-113 and -114
airplanes, and Model A320-211 and -212 airplanes, certificated in
any category.
(d) Subject
Air Transport Association (ATA) of America Code 71, Powerplant.
(e) Reason
This AD was prompted by a report that a life-limit of 64,000
flight cycles has been established for certain titanium crossbeams
of the forward engine mount. The FAA is issuing this AD to address
failure of a crossbeam of the forward engine mount, which could
result in detachment of the engine and consequent reduced
controllability of the airplane.
(f) Compliance
Comply with this AD within the compliance times specified,
unless already done.
(g) Requirements
Except as specified in paragraph (h) of this AD: Comply with all
required actions and compliance times specified in, and in
accordance with European Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) AD 2018-0212,
dated September 28, 2018 (``EASA AD 2018-0212''), or EASA AD 2018-
0212R1, dated March 28, 2019 (``EASA AD 2018-0212R1'').
(h) Exceptions to EASA ADs 2018-0212 and 2018-0212R1
(1) For purposes of determining compliance with the requirements
of this AD: Where EASA ADs 2018-0212 and 2018-0212R1 refer to the
effective date of EASA
[[Page 28722]]
AD 2018-0212 (October 12, 2018), this AD requires using the
effective date of this AD.
(2) Where paragraph (2) of EASA ADs 2018-0212 and 2018-0212R1
specifies replacing ``with instructions provided by Airbus,'' for
this AD, the replacement must be done using a method approved in
accordance with the procedures specified in paragraph (i)(2) of this
AD.
(3) Where paragraphs (1) and (3) of EASA ADs 2018-0212 and 2018-
0212R1 specify flight cycles (FC), this AD requires using ``total
flight cycles.''
(4) The ``Remarks'' sections of EASA ADs 2018-0212 and 2018-
0212R1 do not apply.
(i) Other FAA AD Provisions
The following provisions also apply to this AD:
(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 (j) of this AD. Information may
be emailed to: [email protected]. Before using any
approved AMOC, notify your appropriate principal inspector, or
lacking a principal inspector, the manager of the local flight
standards district office/certificate holding district office.
(2) Contacting the Manufacturer: For any requirement in this AD
to obtain instructions from a manufacturer, the instructions must be
accomplished using a method approved by the Manager, International
Section, Transport Standards Branch, FAA; or 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): For any service information
referenced in EASA AD 2018-0212 or EASA AD 2018-0212R1 that contains
RC procedures and tests: Except as required by paragraph (i)(2) of
this AD, RC 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.
(j) Related Information
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.
(k) 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.
(i) European Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) AD 2018-0212, dated
September 28, 2018.
(ii) European Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) AD 2018-0212R1,
dated March 28, 2019.
(3) For EASA AD 2018-0212 and EASA AD 2018-0212R1, contact the
EASA, Konrad-Adenauer-Ufer 3, 50668 Cologne, Germany; telephone +49
221 89990 6017; email [email protected]; internet
www.easa.europa.eu. You may find these EASA ADs on the EASA website
at https://ad.easa.europa.eu.
(4) You may view these EASA ADs 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. EASA AD
2018-0212 and EASA AD 2018-0212R1 may be found in the AD docket on
the internet at http://www.regulations.gov by searching for and
locating Docket No. FAA-2018-1068.
(5) You may view this material 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 June 10, 2019.
Michael Kaszycki,
Acting Director, System Oversight Division, Aircraft Certification
Service.
[FR Doc. 2019-13059 Filed 6-19-19; 8:45 am]
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