[Federal Register Volume 87, Number 120 (Thursday, June 23, 2022)]
[Proposed Rules]
[Pages 37454-37459]
From the Federal Register Online via the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]
[FR Doc No: 2022-13306]
========================================================================
Proposed Rules
Federal Register
________________________________________________________________________
This section of the FEDERAL REGISTER contains notices to the public of
the proposed issuance of rules and regulations. The purpose of these
notices is to give interested persons an opportunity to participate in
the rule making prior to the adoption of the final rules.
========================================================================
Federal Register / Vol. 87, No. 120 / Thursday, June 23, 2022 /
Proposed Rules
[[Page 37454]]
DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION
Federal Aviation Administration
14 CFR Part 39
[Docket No. FAA-2022-0682; Project Identifier MCAI-2021-01271-T]
RIN 2120-AA64
Airworthiness Directives; Airbus SAS Airplanes
AGENCY: Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), DOT.
ACTION: Notice of proposed rulemaking (NPRM).
-----------------------------------------------------------------------
SUMMARY: The FAA proposes to supersede Airworthiness Directive (AD)
2016-10-08, AD 2017-05-10, and AD 2019-01-05, which apply to certain
Airbus SAS Model A330-200, -200 Freighter, and -300 series airplanes;
and AD 2019-20-13, which applies to certain Airbus SAS Model A330-200,
A330-200 Freighter, A330-300, A340-200, A340-300, A340-500, and A340-
600 series airplanes. AD 2016-10-08 requires determining the flight
cycles accumulated on certain trimmable horizontal stabilizer actuators
(THSAs), and replacing the THSA if necessary. AD 2017-05-10, AD 2019-
01-05, and AD 2019-20-13 require revising the existing maintenance or
inspection program, as applicable. Since the FAA issued those ADs, the
FAA has determined that new or more restrictive airworthiness
limitations are necessary. This proposed AD would require revising the
existing maintenance or inspection program, as applicable, to
incorporate additional new or more restrictive airworthiness
limitations, as specified in a European Union Aviation Safety Agency
(EASA) AD, which is proposed for incorporation by reference. The FAA is
proposing this AD to address the unsafe condition on these products.
DATES: The FAA must receive comments on this proposed AD by August 8,
2022.
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 https://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: U.S. Department of Transportation, Docket
Operations, M-30, West Building Ground Floor, Room W12-140, 1200 New
Jersey Avenue SE, Washington, DC 20590, between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m.,
Monday through Friday, except Federal holidays.
For EASA material that will be incorporated by reference (IBR) in
this AD, contact EASA, Konrad-Adenauer-Ufer 3, 50668 Cologne, Germany;
telephone +49 221 8999 000; email [email protected]; internet
www.easa.europa.eu. You may find this material on the EASA website at
https://ad.easa.europa.eu. For Airbus SAS service information
identified in this proposed 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 https://www.airbus.com. You
may view this material at the FAA, Airworthiness Products Section,
Operational Safety 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 at https://www.regulations.gov by searching for and locating Docket No. FAA-2022-
0682.
Examining the AD Docket
You may examine the AD docket at https://www.regulations.gov by
searching for and locating Docket No. FAA-2022-0682; 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
mandatory continuing airworthiness information (MCAI), any comments
received, and other information. The street address for Docket
Operations is listed above.
FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Vladimir Ulyanov, Aerospace Engineer,
Large Aircraft Section, FAA, International Validation Branch, 2200
South 216th St., Des Moines, WA 98198; telephone 206-231-3229; email
[email protected].
SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION:
Comments Invited
The FAA invites you to send any written relevant data, views, or
arguments about this proposal. Send your comments to an address listed
under ADDRESSES. Include ``Docket No. FAA-2022-0682; Project Identifier
MCAI-2021-01271-T'' at the beginning of your comments. The most helpful
comments reference a specific portion of the proposal, explain the
reason for any recommended change, and include supporting data. The FAA
will consider all comments received by the closing date and may amend
this proposal because of those comments.
Except for Confidential Business Information (CBI) as described in
the following paragraph, and other information as described in 14 CFR
11.35, the FAA will post all comments received, without change, to
https://www.regulations.gov, including any personal information you
provide. The agency will also post a report summarizing each
substantive verbal contact received about this NPRM.
Confidential Business Information
CBI is commercial or financial information that is both customarily
and actually treated as private by its owner. Under the Freedom of
Information Act (FOIA) (5 U.S.C. 552), CBI is exempt from public
disclosure. If your comments responsive to this NPRM contain commercial
or financial information that is customarily treated as private, that
you actually treat as private, and that is relevant or responsive to
this NPRM, it is important that you clearly designate the submitted
comments as CBI. Please mark each page of your submission containing
CBI as ``PROPIN.'' The FAA will treat such marked submissions as
confidential under the FOIA, and they will not be placed in the public
docket of this NPRM. Submissions containing CBI should be sent to
Vladimir Ulyanov, Aerospace Engineer, Large Aircraft Section, FAA,
International Validation Branch, 2200 South 216th St., Des Moines, WA
98198; telephone 206-231-3229; email [email protected]. Any
commentary that the FAA receives
[[Page 37455]]
which is not specifically designated as CBI will be placed in the
public docket for this rulemaking.
Background
The FAA issued AD 2016-10-08, Amendment 39-18519 (81 FR 31844, May
20, 2016) (AD 2016-10-08), which applies to certain Airbus SAS Model
A330-200, A330-200 Freighter, A330-300, A340-200, A340-300, A340-500,
and A340-600 series airplanes. Airbus SAS Model A340-200, A340-300,
A340-500, and A340-600 series airplanes were included in AD 2016-10-08,
but are not included in this proposed AD. Airbus SAS Model A340-200,
A340-300, A340-500, and A340-600 series airplanes are not included in
this proposed AD because EASA included these airplanes in EASA AD 2021-
0250, dated November 17, 2021 (EASA AD 2021-0250), and the FAA has
added the MCAI to the required airworthiness actions list (RAAL) for
Model A340 airplanes. AD 2016-10-08 requires inspecting certain THSAs
to determine the number of total flight cycles the THSA has
accumulated, and replacing the THSA if necessary. The FAA issued AD
2016-10-08 to detect and correct premature wear of the carbon friction
disks on the no-back brake of the THSA. Such a condition could lead to
reduced braking efficiency in certain load conditions and, in
conjunction with the inability of the power gear train to keep the ball
screw in its last commanded position, could result in uncommanded
movements of the trimmable horizontal stabilizer and loss of control of
the airplane.
The FAA issued AD 2017-05-10, Amendment 39-18821 (82 FR 13379,
March 13, 2017) (AD 2017-05-10), which applies to certain Airbus SAS
Model A330-200, A330-200 Freighter, and A330-300 series airplanes. AD
2017-05-10 requires revising the maintenance or inspection program to
incorporate new maintenance requirements and airworthiness limitations.
The FAA issued AD 2017-05-10 to prevent reduced structural integrity
and reduced control of these airplanes due to the failure of system
components.
The FAA issued AD 2019-01-05, Amendment 39-19544 (84 FR 4310,
February 15, 2019) (AD 2019-01-05), which applies to certain Airbus SAS
Model A330-200, A330-200 Freighter, and A330-300 series airplanes. AD
2019-01-05 requires revising the existing maintenance or inspection
program to incorporate new maintenance requirements and airworthiness
limitations. The FAA issued AD 2019-01-05 to prevent reduced airplane
control due to the failure of system components. AD 2019-01-05
specifies that accomplishing the revision required by paragraph (g) of
that AD terminates all requirements of AD 2017-05-10.
The FAA issued AD 2019-20-13, Amendment 39-19766 (84 FR 56378,
October 22, 2019) (AD 2019-20-13), which applies to certain Airbus SAS
Model A330-200, A330-200 Freighter, and A330-300 series airplanes. AD
2019-20-13 requires revising the existing maintenance or inspection
program, as applicable, to incorporate new or more restrictive
airworthiness limitations. The FAA issued AD 2019-20-13 to address the
failure of system components, which could reduce the controllability of
the airplane. AD 2019-20-13 specifies that accomplishing the actions
required by that AD terminates all requirements of AD 2019-01-05.
Additionally, AD 2019-20-13 specifies that accomplishing the action
required by task number 274400-00004-1-E of Airbus A330 Airworthiness
Limitations Section (ALS) Part 4, System Equipment Maintenance
Requirements (SEMR), Revision 07, dated October 15, 2018, within the
compliance time specified for that task in Airbus A330 Airworthiness
Limitations Section (ALS) Part 4, System Equipment Maintenance
Requirements (SEMR), Revision 07, dated October 15, 2018, terminates
all requirements of AD 2017-25-13, Amendment 39-19127 (82 FR 59960,
December 18, 2017) (AD 2017-25-13), for Airbus SAS Model A330-200, -200
Freighter, and -300 series airplanes only. Lastly, AD 2019-20-13
specifies that accomplishing the action required by task number 213100-
00001-1-E of Airbus A330 Airworthiness Limitations Section (ALS) Part
4, System Equipment Maintenance Requirements (SEMR), Revision 07, dated
October 15, 2018, within the compliance time specified for that task in
Airbus A330 Airworthiness Limitations Section (ALS) Part 4, System
Equipment Maintenance Requirements (SEMR), Revision 07, dated October
15, 2018, terminates all requirements of AD 2014-16-22, Amendment 39-
17946 (79 FR 49442, August 21, 2014) (AD 2014-16-22) for Airbus SAS
Model A330-200, -200 Freighter, and -300 series airplanes only.
Actions Since AD 2016-10-08, AD 2017-05-10, AD 2019-01-05, and AD 2019-
20-13 Were Issued
Since the FAA issued AD 2016-10-08, AD 2017-05-10, AD 2019-01-05,
and AD 2019-20-13, the FAA has determined that new or more restrictive
airworthiness limitations are necessary. The required actions mandated
in AD 2016-10-08 are incorporated into Airbus A330 Airworthiness
Limitations Section (ALS) Part 4, System Equipment Maintenance
Requirements (SEMR), Revision 08, dated July 1, 2021 (which is referred
to in EASA AD 2021-0250, dated November 17, 2021) (EASA AD 2021-0250)
(also referred to as the MCAI).
EASA, which is the Technical Agent for the Member States of the
European Union, has issued EASA AD 2021-0250 to correct an unsafe
condition for all Airbus SAS Model A330-201, -202, -203, -223, and -243
airplanes; Model A330-223F and -243F airplanes; Model A330-301, -302, -
303, -321, -322, -323, -341, -342, and -343 airplanes; Model A330-841
airplanes; and Model A330-941 airplanes.
Airplanes with an original airworthiness certificate or original
export certificate of airworthiness issued after July 1, 2021, must
comply with the airworthiness limitations specified as part of the
approved type design and referenced on the type certificate data sheet;
this AD therefore does not include those airplanes in the
applicability.
This proposed AD was prompted by a determination that new or more
restrictive airworthiness limitations are necessary. The FAA is
proposing this AD to address the failure of system components, which
could reduce the controllability of the airplane. See the MCAI for
additional background information.
Related Service Information Under 1 CFR Part 51
EASA AD 2021-0250 describes airworthiness limitations for system
equipment maintenance requirements.
This proposed AD would require Airbus Service Bulletin A330-27-
3199, dated July 15, 2014, which the Director of the Federal Register
approved for incorporation by reference as of June 24, 2016 (81 FR
31844, May 20, 2016).
This proposed AD would also require A330 Airworthiness Limitations
Section (ALS) Part 4, System Equipment Maintenance Requirements (SEMR),
Revision 07, dated October 15, 2018, which the Director of the Federal
Register approved for incorporation by reference as of November 26,
2019 (84 FR 56378, October 22, 2019).
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.
[[Page 37456]]
FAA's Determination
This product has been approved by the aviation authority of another
country and is approved for operation in the United States. Pursuant to
the FAA's bilateral agreement with the State of Design Authority, it
has notified the FAA of the unsafe condition described in the MCAI
referenced above. The FAA is issuing this NPRM after determining that
the unsafe condition described previously is likely to exist or develop
in other products of the same type design.
Proposed AD Requirements in This NPRM
This proposed AD would retain the requirements of AD 2016-10-08 and
AD 2019-20-13. This proposed AD would require revising the existing
maintenance or inspection program, as applicable, to incorporate new or
more restrictive airworthiness limitations, which are specified in EASA
AD 2021-0250 described previously, as proposed for incorporation by
reference. Accomplishing the actions required by this proposed AD would
terminate all requirements of AD 2014-16-22 for Airbus SAS Model A330-
200, -200 Freighter, and -300 series airplanes only, and would
terminate all requirements of AD 2017-25-13 for Airbus SAS Model A330-
200, -200 Freighter, and -300 series airplanes only. Any differences
with EASA AD 2021-0250 are identified as exceptions in the regulatory
text of this AD.
This proposed AD would require revisions to certain operator
maintenance documents to include new actions (e.g., inspections).
Compliance with these actions is required by 14 CFR 91.403(c). For
airplanes that have been previously modified, altered, or repaired in
the areas addressed by this proposed AD, the operator may not be able
to accomplish the actions described in the revisions. In this
situation, to comply with 14 CFR 91.403(c), the operator must request
approval for an alternative method of compliance (AMOC) according to
paragraph (s)(1) of this proposed AD.
Explanation of Required Compliance Information
In the FAA's ongoing efforts to improve the efficiency of the AD
process, the FAA developed a process to use some civil aviation
authority (CAA) ADs as the primary source of information for compliance
with requirements for corresponding FAA ADs. The FAA has been
coordinating this process with manufacturers and CAAs. As a result, the
FAA proposes to incorporate EASA AD 2021-0250 by reference in the FAA
final rule. This proposed AD would, therefore, require compliance with
EASA AD 2021-0250 in its entirety through that incorporation, except
for any differences identified as exceptions in the regulatory text of
this proposed AD. Using common terms that are the same as the heading
of a particular section in EASA AD 2021-0250 does not mean that
operators need comply only with that section. For example, where the AD
requirement refers to ``all required actions and compliance times,''
compliance with this AD requirement is not limited to the section
titled ``Required Action(s) and Compliance Time(s)'' in EASA AD 2021-
0250. Service information required by EASA AD 2021-0250 for compliance
will be available at https://www.regulations.gov by searching for and
locating Docket No. FAA-2022-0682 after the FAA final rule is
published.
Airworthiness Limitation ADs Using the New Process
The FAA's process of incorporating by reference MCAI ADs as the
primary source of information for compliance with corresponding FAA ADs
has been limited to certain MCAI ADs (primarily those with service
bulletins as the primary source of information for accomplishing the
actions required by the FAA AD). However, the FAA is now expanding the
process to include MCAI ADs that require a change to airworthiness
limitation documents, such as airworthiness limitation sections.
For these ADs that incorporate by reference an MCAI AD that changes
airworthiness limitations, the FAA requirements are unchanged.
Operators must revise the existing maintenance or inspection program,
as applicable, to incorporate the information specified in the new
airworthiness limitation document. The airworthiness limitations must
be followed according to 14 CFR 91.403(c) and 91.409(e).
The previous format of the airworthiness limitation ADs included a
paragraph that specified that no alternative actions (e.g.,
inspections) or intervals may be used unless the actions and intervals
are approved as an AMOC in accordance with the procedures specified in
the AMOCs paragraph under ``Additional FAA Provisions.'' This new
format includes a ``New Provisions for Alternative Actions and
Intervals'' paragraph that does not specifically refer to AMOCs, but
operators may still request an AMOC to use an alternative action or
interval.
Costs of Compliance
The FAA estimates that this proposed AD affects 138 airplanes of
U.S. registry. The FAA estimates the following costs to comply with
this proposed AD:
The FAA estimates the total cost per operator for the retained
actions from AD 2016-10-08 to be $255 per product (3 work-hours x $85
per work-hour) for inspecting the THSA for a total cost for U.S.
operators of $35,190. The retained on-condition cost for AD 2016-10-08
is $724,511 per product (23 work-hours x $85 per work-hour). The FAA
estimates the total cost per operator for the retained actions from AD
2019-20-13 to be $7,650 (90 work-hours x $85 per work-hour).
The FAA has determined that revising the existing maintenance or
inspection program takes an average of 90 work-hours per operator,
although the agency recognizes that this number may vary from operator
to operator. Since operators incorporate maintenance or inspection
program changes for their affected fleet(s), the FAA has determined
that a per-operator estimate is more accurate than a per-airplane
estimate.
The FAA estimates the total cost per operator for the new proposed
actions to be $7,650 (90 work-hours x $85 per work-hour).
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.
Regulatory Findings
The FAA 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
[[Page 37457]]
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) Would not affect intrastate aviation in Alaska, and
(3) Would 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:
0
a. Removing Airworthiness Directive (AD) AD 2016-10-08, Amendment 39-
18519 (81 FR 31844, May 20, 2016); AD 2017-05-10, Amendment 39-18821
(82 FR 13379, March 13, 2017); AD 2019-01-05, Amendment 39-19544 (84 FR
4310, February 15, 2019); and AD 2019-20-13, Amendment 39-19766 (84 FR
56378, October 22, 2019); and
0
b. Adding the following new AD:
Airbus SAS: Docket No. FAA-2022-0682; Project Identifier MCAI-2021-
01271-T.
(a) Comments Due Date
The FAA must receive comments on this airworthiness directive
(AD) by August 8, 2022.
(b) Affected ADs
(1) This AD replaces the ADs identified in paragraphs (b)(1)(i)
through (iv) of this AD.
(i) AD 2016-10-08, Amendment 39-18519 (81 FR 31844, May 20,
2016) (AD 2016-10-08).
(ii) AD 2017-05-10, Amendment 39-18821 (82 FR 13379, March 13,
2017) (AD 2017-05-10).
(iii) AD 2019-01-05, Amendment 39-19544 (84 FR 4310, February
15, 2019) (AD 2019-01-05).
(iv) AD 2019-20-13, Amendment 39-19766 (84 FR 56378, October 22,
2019) (AD 2019-20-13).
(2) This AD affects AD 2014-16-22, Amendment 39-17946 (79 FR
49442, August 21, 2014) (AD 2014-16-22); and AD 2017-25-13,
Amendment 39-19127 (82 FR 59960, December 18, 2017) (AD 2017-25-13).
(c) Applicability
This AD applies to Airbus SAS airplanes specified in paragraphs
(c)(1) through (5) of this AD, certificated in any category, with an
original airworthiness certificate or original export certificate of
airworthiness issued on or before July 1, 2021.
(1) Model A330-201, -202, -203, -223, and -243 airplanes.
(2) Model A330-223F and -243F airplanes.
(3) Model A330-301, -302, -303, -321, -322, -323, -341, -342,
and -343 airplanes.
(4) Model A330-841 airplanes.
(5) Model A330-941 airplanes.
(d) Subject
Air Transport Association (ATA) of America Code 05, Time Limits/
Maintenance Checks.
(e) Unsafe Condition
This AD was prompted by a determination that new or more
restrictive airworthiness limitations are necessary. The FAA is
issuing this AD to address the failure of system components, which
could reduce the controllability of the airplane.
(f) Compliance
Comply with this AD within the compliance times specified,
unless already done.
(g) Retained Inspection To Determine Trimmable Horizontal Stabilizer
Actuator (THSA) Part Number and Accumulated Total Flight Cycles, With
Removed References to Certain Models
This paragraph restates the requirements of paragraph (g) of AD
2016-10-08, with removed references to certain models. For Model
A330-200 Freighter, A330-200, and A330-300 series airplanes: Within
90 days after June 24, 2016 (the effective date of AD 2016-10-08),
inspect the THSA to determine if it has part number 47147-500,
47147-700, 47172-300, 47172-500, 47172-510, or 47172-520, and to
determine the total number of flight cycles accumulated since the
THSA's first installation on an airplane, or since the most recent
no-back brake (NBB) replacement. A review of airplane delivery or
maintenance records is acceptable in lieu of this inspection if the
part number of the THSA can be conclusively determined from that
review. Accomplishing the revision of the existing maintenance or
inspection program required by paragraph (o) of this AD terminates
the requirements of this paragraph.
(h) Retained THSA Replacement for Model A330-200 Freighter, A330-200,
A330-300, With Removed References to Certain Models and Service
Information
This paragraph restates the requirements of paragraph (h) of AD
2016-10-08, with removed references to certain models and service
information. For Model A330-200 Freighter, A330-200, and A330-300
series airplanes having a THSA with a part number specified in
paragraph (g) of this AD: At the applicable time specified in
paragraph (h)(1), (2), or (3) of this AD, replace each affected THSA
with a serviceable THSA, in accordance with the Accomplishment
Instructions of Airbus Service Bulletin A330-27-3199, dated July 15,
2014. Accomplishing the revision of the existing maintenance or
inspection program required by paragraph (o) of this AD terminates
the requirements of this paragraph.
Note 1 to paragraphs (h) and (i): The THSA life limits
specified in Part 4--Aging System Maintenance of the Airbus A330
Airworthiness Limitations Sections are still relevant, as applicable
to airplane model and THSA part number.
(1) For a THSA that has accumulated or exceeded 20,000 total
flight cycles since the THSA's first installation on an airplane, or
since the most recent NBB replacement, whichever is later, as of
June 24, 2016 (the effective date of AD 2016-10-08): Within 6 months
after June 24, 2016.
(2) For a THSA that has accumulated or exceeded 16,000 total
flight cycles, but less than 20,000 total flight cycles since the
THSA's first installation on an airplane, or since the most recent
NBB replacement, whichever is later, as of June 24, 2016 (the
effective date of AD 2016-10-08): Within 12 months after June 24,
2016, but without exceeding 20,000 total flight cycles.
(3) For a THSA that has accumulated less than 16,000 total
flight cycles since first installation on an airplane, or since the
most recent NBB replacement, whichever is later, as of June 24, 2016
(the effective date of AD 2016-10-08): At the applicable time
specified in paragraph (i) of this AD.
(i) Retained Replacement Times for Model A330-200 Freighter, A330-200,
and A330-300 Series Airplanes With THSAs Having Less Than 16,000 Total
Flight Cycles as of the Effective Date of This AD, With Removed
References to Certain Models and Service Information
This paragraph restates the requirements of paragraph (i) of AD
2016-10-08, with removed references to certain models and service
information. The requirements of this paragraph apply to Model A330-
200 Freighter, A330-200, and A330-300 series airplanes having a THSA
with a part number specified in paragraph (g) of this AD that has
accumulated less than 16,000 total flight cycles since first
installation on an airplane, or since the most recent NBB
replacement, whichever is later, as of June 24, 2016 (the effective
date of AD 2016-10-08). Not later than the date specified in
paragraphs (i)(1), (2), and (3) of this AD, as applicable: For any
THSA having reached or exceeded on that date the corresponding
number of total flight cycles as specified in paragraphs (i)(1),
(2), and (3) of this AD, as applicable, replace the THSA with a
serviceable unit, in accordance with the Accomplishment Instructions
of Airbus Service Bulletin A330-27-3199, dated July 15, 2014.
Accomplishing the revision of the existing maintenance or inspection
program required by paragraph (o) of this AD terminates the
requirements of this paragraph.
(1) As of 12 months after June 24, 2016 (the effective date of
AD 2016-10-08): The THSA flight-cycle limit (since first
installation on an airplane, or since last NBB replacement,
[[Page 37458]]
whichever occurs later) is 16,000 total flight cycles.
(2) As of July 31, 2017: The THSA flight-cycle limit (since
first installation on an airplane, or since last NBB replacement,
whichever occurs later) is 14,000 total flight cycles.
(3) As of July 31, 2018: The THSA flight-cycle limit (since
first installation on an airplane, or since last NBB replacement,
whichever occurs later) is 12,000 total flight cycles.
(j) Retained THSA Replacement Intervals for Model A330-200 Freighter,
A330-200, and A330-300 Series Airplanes, With Removed Service
Information
This paragraph restates the requirements of paragraph (k) of AD
2016-10-08, with removed service information. For Model A330-200
Freighter, A330-200, and A330-300 series airplanes with any part
installed, as required by paragraph (h) or (i) of this AD, having a
part number identified in paragraph (g) of this AD: From the dates
specified in paragraph (i) of this AD, as applicable, and prior to
exceeding the accumulated number of total flight cycles
corresponding to each time, replace each affected THSA with a
serviceable part, in accordance with the Accomplishment Instructions
of Airbus Service Bulletin A330-27-3199, dated July 15, 2014.
Accomplishing the revision of the existing maintenance or inspection
program required by paragraph (o) of this AD terminates the
requirements of this paragraph.
(k) Retained Definition of Serviceable THSA, With Updated Paragraph
References
This paragraph restates the requirements of paragraph (l) of AD
2016-10-08, with updated paragraph references. For the purposes of
paragraphs (g) through (j) and (l) of this AD, a serviceable THSA is
a THSA:
(1) Having a part number identified in paragraph (g) of this AD
that has not exceeded any of the total accumulated flight cycles
identified in paragraphs (i)(1) through (3) of this AD; or
(2) Having a part number that is not identified in paragraph (g)
of this AD.
(l) Retained Parts Installation Limitation, With Updated Paragraph
References
This paragraph restates the requirements of paragraph (m) of AD
2016-10-08, with updated paragraph references. For Model A330-200
Freighter, A330-200, and A330-300 series airplanes: From each date
specified in paragraphs (i)(1), (2), and (3) of this AD, a THSA
having a part number identified in paragraph (g) of this AD may be
installed on any airplane, provided the THSA has not exceeded the
corresponding number of accumulated total flight cycles.
Accomplishing the revision of the existing maintenance or inspection
program required by paragraph (o) of this AD terminates the
requirements of this paragraph.
(m) Retained Revision of the Existing Maintenance or Inspection
Program, With No Changes
This paragraph restates the requirements of paragraph (g) of AD
2019-20-13, with no changes. For Model A330-200 Freighter, A330-200,
and A330-300 series airplanes with an original airworthiness
certificate or original export certificate of airworthiness issued
on or before October 15, 2018: Within 90 days after November 26,
2019 (the effective date of AD 2019-20-13), revise the existing
maintenance or inspection program, as applicable, to incorporate the
information specified in Airbus A330 Airworthiness Limitations
Section (ALS) Part 4, System Equipment Maintenance Requirements
(SEMR), Revision 07, dated October 15, 2018. The component life
limits and the initial compliance time for doing the tasks are at
the times specified in Airbus A330 Airworthiness Limitations Section
(ALS) Part 4, System Equipment Maintenance Requirements (SEMR),
Revision 07, dated October 15, 2018, or within 90 days after
November 26, 2019, whichever occurs later. Accomplishing the
revision of the existing maintenance or inspection program required
by paragraph (o) of this AD terminates the requirements of this
paragraph.
(n) Retained Restrictions on Alternative Actions and Intervals, With a
New Exception
This paragraph restates the requirements of paragraph (h) of AD
2019-20-13, with a new exception. Except as required by paragraph
(o) of this AD, after the existing maintenance or inspection program
has been revised as required by paragraph (m) of this AD, no
alternative actions (e.g., inspections) or intervals may be used
unless the actions and intervals are approved as an alternative
method of compliance (AMOC) in accordance with the procedures
specified in paragraph (s)(1) of this AD.
(o) New Revision of the Existing Maintenance or Inspection Program
Except as specified in paragraph (p) of this AD: Comply with all
required actions and compliance times specified in, and in
accordance with, EASA AD 2021-0250, dated November 17, 2021 (EASA AD
2021-0250). Accomplishing the revision of the existing maintenance
or inspection program required by this paragraph terminates the
requirements of paragraphs (g), through (j), (l), and (m) of this
AD.
(p) Exceptions to EASA AD 2021-0250
(1) Where EASA AD 2021-0250 refers to its effective date, this
AD requires using the effective date of this AD.
(2) The requirements specified in paragraphs (1) and (2) of EASA
AD 2021-0250 do not apply to this AD.
(3) Paragraph (3) of EASA AD 2021-0250 specifies to ``revise the
AMP'' within 12 months after its effective date, but this AD
requires revising the existing maintenance or inspection program, as
applicable, within 90 days after the effective date of this AD.
(4) The initial compliance time for doing the tasks specified in
paragraph (3) of EASA 2021-0250 is at the applicable ``limitations
and associated thresholds'' as incorporated by the requirements of
paragraph (3) of EASA AD 2021-0250, or within 90 days after the
effective date of this AD, whichever occurs later.
(5) The provisions specified in paragraphs (4) and (5) of EASA
AD 2021-0250 do not apply to this AD.
(6) The ``Remarks'' section of EASA AD 2021-0250 does not apply
to this AD.
(q) New Provisions for Alternative Actions and Intervals
After the existing maintenance or inspection program has been
revised as required by paragraph (o) of this AD, no alternative
actions (e.g., inspections) and intervals are allowed unless they
are approved as specified in the provisions of the ``Ref.
Publications'' section of EASA AD 2021-0250.
(r) Terminating Action for AD 2014-16-22 and AD 2017-25-13
(1) Accomplishing the action required by task number 213100-
00001-1-E of Airbus A330 Airworthiness Limitations Section (ALS)
Part 4, System Equipment Maintenance Requirements (SEMR), Revision
07, dated October 15, 2018, or using ``The ALS'' specified in EASA
AD 2021-0250, within the compliance time specified for that task
terminates all requirements of AD 2014-16-22 for Airbus SAS Model
A330-200, -200 Freighter, and -300 series airplanes only.
(2) Accomplishing the action required by task number 274400-
000041-E of Airbus A330 Airworthiness Limitations Section (ALS) Part
4, System Equipment Maintenance Requirements (SEMR), Revision 07,
dated October 15, 2018, or using ``The ALS'' specified in EASA AD
2021-0250, within the compliance time specified for that task
terminates all requirements of AD 2017-25-13 for Airbus SAS Model
A330-200, -200 Freighter, and -300 series airplanes only.
(s) Additional FAA AD Provisions
The following provisions also apply to this AD:
(1) Alternative Methods of Compliance (AMOCs): The Manager,
Large Aircraft Section, International Validation 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 responsible Flight
Standards Office, as appropriate. If sending information directly to
the Large Aircraft Section, International Validation Branch, send it
to the attention of the person identified in paragraph (t)(2) 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
responsible Flight Standards 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, Large Aircraft
Section, International Validation 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.
(t) Related Information
(1) For EASA AD 2021-0250, contact EASA, Konrad-Adenauer-Ufer 3,
50668 Cologne, Germany; telephone +49 221 8999 000; email
[email protected]; internet
[[Page 37459]]
www.easa.europa.eu. You may find this EASA AD on the EASA website at
https://ad.easa.europa.eu. You may view this material at the FAA,
Airworthiness Products Section, Operational Safety Branch, 2200
South 216th St., Des Moines, WA. For information on the availability
of this material at the FAA, call 206-231-3195. This material may be
found in the AD docket at https://www.regulations.gov by searching
for and locating Docket No. FAA-2022-0682.
(2) For more information about this AD, contact Vladimir
Ulyanov, Aerospace Engineer, Large Aircraft Section, FAA,
International Validation Branch, 2200 South 216th St., Des Moines,
WA 98198; telephone 206-231-3229; email [email protected].
(3) For Airbus SAS 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 https://www.airbus.com. You may view this service
information at the FAA, Airworthiness Products Section, Operational
Safety Branch, 2200 South 216th St., Des Moines, WA. For information
on the availability of this material at the FAA, call 206-231-3195.
Issued on June 16, 2022.
Christina Underwood,
Acting Director, Compliance & Airworthiness Division, Aircraft
Certification Service.
[FR Doc. 2022-13306 Filed 6-22-22; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE 4910-13-P