2012-7008. Airworthiness Directives; Airbus Airplanes

AGENCY:

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

ACTION:

Final rule; request for comments.

SUMMARY:

We are adopting a new airworthiness directive (AD) for certain Airbus Model A330-200, A330-300, A340-500, and A340-600 series airplanes. This AD requires a detailed inspection for cracked and missing nuts, and replacement of cracked or missing nuts with new nuts having the same part number. This AD was prompted by reports of cracked nuts detected during production. We are issuing this AD to detect and correct cracked or missing nuts, and replace all affected nuts in multiple locations (including fuel tank areas) that could result in reduced structural integrity of the airplane.

DATES:

This AD becomes effective April 16, 2012.

The Director of the Federal Register approved the incorporation by reference of certain publications listed in the AD as of April 16, 2012.

We must receive comments on this AD by May 14, 2012.

ADDRESSES:

You may send comments by any of the following methods:

• Federal eRulemaking Portal: Go to http://www.regulations.gov. Follow the instructions for submitting comments.
• Fax: [phone].
• 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, between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m., Monday through Friday, except Federal holidays.

Examining the AD Docket

You may examine the AD docket on the Internet at http://www.regulations.gov;​; or in person at the Docket Operations office between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m., Monday through Friday, except Federal holidays. The AD docket contains this AD, the regulatory evaluation, any comments received, and other information. The street address for the Docket Operations office (telephone [phone]) is in the ADDRESSES section. Comments will be available in the AD docket shortly after receipt.

FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT:

Vladimir Ulyanov, Aerospace Engineer, International Branch, ANM-116, Transport Airplane Directorate, FAA, 1601 Lind Avenue SW., Renton, Washington 98057-3356; telephone [phone]; fax [phone].

SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION:

Discussion

The European Aviation Safety Agency (EASA), which is the Technical Agent for the Member States of the European Community, has issued EASA Airworthiness Directive 2010-0252, dated November 29, 2010 (referred to after this as “the MCAI”), to correct an unsafe condition for the specified products. The MCAI states:

During structural part assembly in Airbus production line, some nuts Part Number (P/N) ASNA2531-4 were found cracked.

Investigations were performed to determine batches of the affected nuts.

Static, fatigue and corrosion tests were performed and demonstrated that no immediate maintenance action is necessary. However, due to the large number of these nuts fitted on primary structural elements, this condition, if not corrected, could impair the structural integrity of the affected aeroplanes.

This [EASA] AD requires detailed inspection [for cracked and missing nuts] and replacement of nuts P/N ASNA2531-4 with new ones having the same P/N, in order to restore the structural integrity of the affected aeroplanes, and the accomplishment of the applicable corrective actions. [If no missing or cracked nut is found, replace with new nut.]

You may obtain further information by examining the MCAI in the AD docket.

Relevant Service Information

Airbus has issued Mandatory Service Bulletin A330-53-3183, including Appendices 01 and 02, dated September 30, 2010 (for Model A330-200 and -300 series airplanes); and Mandatory Service Bulletin A340-53-5056, including Appendices 01 and 02, dated October 7, 2010 (for Model A340-500 and -600 series airplanes). The actions described in this service information are intended to correct the unsafe condition identified in the MCAI.

FAA's Determination and Requirements of This AD

This product has been approved by the aviation authority of another country, and is approved for operation in the United States. Pursuant to our bilateral agreement with the State of Design Authority, we have been notified of the unsafe condition described in the MCAI and service information referenced above. We are issuing this AD because we evaluated all pertinent information and determined the unsafe condition exists and is likely to exist or develop on other products of the same type design.

There are no products of this type currently registered in the United States. However, this rule is necessary to ensure that the described unsafe condition is addressed if any of these products are placed on the U.S. Register in the future.

Differences Between the AD and the MCAI or Service Information

This AD differs from the MCAI and/or service information as follows: The MCAI and the service information include a reporting requirement. This AD does not require reporting of the inspection results to the airplane manufacturer.

FAA's Determination of the Effective Date

Since there are currently no domestic operators of this product, notice and opportunity for public comment before issuing this AD are unnecessary.

Comments Invited

This AD is a final rule that involves requirements affecting flight safety, and we did not precede it by notice and opportunity for public comment. We invite you to send any written relevant data, views, or arguments about this AD. Send your comments to an address listed under the ADDRESSES section. Include “Docket No. FAA-2012-0292; Directorate Identifier 2011-NM-056-AD” at the beginning of your comments. We specifically invite comments on the overall regulatory, economic, environmental, and energy aspects of this AD. We will consider all comments received by the closing date and may amend this AD because of those comments.

We will post all comments we receive, without change, to http://www.regulations.gov,, including any personal information you provide. We will also post a report summarizing each substantive verbal contact we receive about this AD.

Authority for This Rulemaking

Title 49 of the United States Code specifies the FAA's authority to issue rules on aviation safety. Subtitle I, section 106, describes the authority of the FAA Administrator. “Subtitle VII: Aviation Programs,” describes in more detail the scope of the Agency's authority.

We are issuing this rulemaking under the authority described in “Subtitle VII, Part A, Subpart III, Section 44701: General requirements.” Under that section, Congress charges the FAA with promoting safe flight of civil aircraft in air commerce by prescribing regulations for practices, methods, and procedures the Administrator finds necessary for safety in air commerce. This regulation is within the scope of that authority because it addresses an unsafe condition that is likely to exist or develop on products identified in this rulemaking action.

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 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.

We prepared a regulatory evaluation of the estimated costs to comply with this AD and placed it in the AD docket.

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

1. The authority citation for part 39 continues to read as follows:

Authority: 49 U.S.C. 106(g), 40113, 44701.

§ 39.13

[Amended]

2. The FAA amends § 39.13 by adding the following new AD:

2012-06-10 Airbus: Amendment 39-16991. Docket No. FAA-2012-0292; Directorate Identifier 2011-NM-056-AD.

(a) Effective Date

This airworthiness directive (AD) becomes effective April 16, 2012.

(b) Affected ADs

None.

(c) Applicability

This AD applies to the Airbus airplanes, certificated in any category, identified in paragraphs (c)(1) and (c)(2) of this AD.

(1) Model A330-201, -202, -203, -223, -243, -301, -302,-303, -321, -322, -323, -341, -342, and -343 airplanes, manufacturer serial numbers 0895, 0898 through 0900 inclusive, 0903 through 0909 inclusive, 0911, 0913 through 0916 inclusive, 0918 through 0920 inclusive, 0922, 0923, 0926, 0927, 0930 through 0932 inclusive, 0934 through 0936 inclusive, 0940, and 0951.

(2) Model A340-541 and -642 airplanes, manufacturer serial numbers 0846, 0848, 0894, 0897, 0902, 0910, 0912, 0917, and 0929.

(d) Subject

Air Transport Association (ATA) of America Code 53: Fuselage.

(e) Reason

This AD was prompted by reports of cracked nuts detected during production. We are issuing this AD to detect and correct cracked or missing nuts, and replace all affected nuts in multiple locations (including fuel tank areas) that could result in reduced structural integrity of the airplane.

(f) Compliance

You are responsible for having the actions required by this AD performed within the compliance times specified, unless the actions have already been done.

(g) Inspection and Corrective Action in Fuel Tank Areas

For nuts having part number (P/N) ASNA2531-4, located in fuel tank areas overcoated with sealant: Within 144 months since first flight of the airplane or 6 months after the effective date of this AD, whichever comes later, do a detailed inspection for missing or cracked nuts having P/N ASNA2531-4, located in fuel tank areas overcoated with sealant, in accordance with the Accomplishment Instructions of Airbus Mandatory Service Bulletin A330-53-3183, excluding Appendices 01 and 02, dated September 30, 2010 (for Model A330-200 and -300 series airplanes); or Airbus Mandatory Service Bulletin A340-53-5056, excluding Appendices 01 and 02, dated October 7, 2010 (for Model A340-500 and -600 series airplanes).

(1) If any nut is found missing: Before further flight, repair the condition according to a method approved by the Manager, International Branch, ANM-116, Transport Airplane Directorate, FAA; or EASA (or its delegated agent).

(2) If any nut is found cracked: Before further flight, replace the cracked nuts with new nuts having the same part number, in accordance with the Accomplishment Instructions of Airbus Mandatory Service Bulletin A330-53-3183, excluding Appendices 01 and 02, dated September 30, 2010 (for Model A330-200 and -300 series airplanes); or Airbus Mandatory Service Bulletin A340-53-5056, excluding Appendices 01 and 02, dated October 7, 2010 (for Model A340-500 and -600 series airplanes).

(3) For any nut that is neither missing nor cracked: Before further flight, replace nut with a new nut having the same part number, in accordance with the Accomplishment Instructions of Airbus Mandatory Service Bulletin A330-53-3183, excluding Appendices 01 and 02, dated September 30, 2010 (for Model A330-200 and -300 series airplanes); or Airbus Mandatory Service Bulletin A340-53-5056, excluding Appendices 01 and 02, dated October 7, 2010 (for Model A340-500 and -600 series airplanes).

(g) Inspection and Corrective Action in Fuel Tank Areas

For nuts having part number (P/N) ASNA2531-4, located in fuel tank areas overcoated with sealant: Within 144 months since first flight of the airplane or 6 months after the effective date of this AD, whichever comes later, do a detailed inspection for missing or cracked nuts having P/N ASNA2531-4, located in fuel tank areas overcoated with sealant, in accordance with the Accomplishment Instructions of Airbus Mandatory Service Bulletin A330-53-3183, excluding Appendices 01 and 02, dated September 30, 2010 (for Model A330-200 and -300 series airplanes); or Airbus Mandatory Service Bulletin A340-53-5056, excluding Appendices 01 and 02, dated October 7, 2010 (for Model A340-500 and -600 series airplanes).

(1) If any nut is found missing: Before further flight, repair the condition according to a method approved by the Manager, International Branch, ANM-116, Transport Airplane Directorate, FAA; or EASA (or its delegated agent).

(2) If any nut is found cracked: Before further flight, replace the cracked nuts with new nuts having the same part number, in accordance with the Accomplishment Instructions of Airbus Mandatory Service Bulletin A330-53-3183, excluding Appendices 01 and 02, dated September 30, 2010 (for Model A330-200 and -300 series airplanes); or Airbus Mandatory Service Bulletin A340-53-5056, excluding Appendices 01 and 02, dated October 7, 2010 (for Model A340-500 and -600 series airplanes).

(3) For any nut that is neither missing nor cracked: Before further flight, replace nut with a new nut having the same part number, in accordance with the Accomplishment Instructions of Airbus Mandatory Service Bulletin A330-53-3183, excluding Appendices 01 and 02, dated September 30, 2010 (for Model A330-200 and -300 series airplanes); or Airbus Mandatory Service Bulletin A340-53-5056, excluding Appendices 01 and 02, dated October 7, 2010 (for Model A340-500 and -600 series airplanes).

(h) Inspection and Corrective Action in Areas Other Than Fuel Tank Areas

For nuts having P/N ASNA2531-4 not located in fuel tank areas: Within 72 months since first flight of airplane or 6 months after the effective date of this AD, whichever comes later, do a detailed inspection for missing or cracked nuts, in accordance with the Accomplishment Instructions of Airbus Mandatory Service Bulletin A330-53-3183, excluding Appendices 01 and 02, dated September 30, 2010 (for Model A330-200 and -300 series airplanes); or Airbus Mandatory Service Bulletin A340-53-5056, excluding Appendices 01 and 02, dated October 7, 2010 (for Model A340-500 and -600 series airplanes).

(1) If any nut is found missing: Before further flight, repair the condition according to a method approved by the Manager, International Branch, ANM-116; or EASA (or its delegated agent).

(2) If any nut is found cracked: Before further flight, replace that nut with a new nut having the same part number, in accordance with the Accomplishment Instructions of Airbus Mandatory Service Bulletin A330-53-3183, excluding Appendices 01 and 02, dated September 30, 2010 (for Model A330-200 and -300 series airplanes); or Airbus Mandatory Service Bulletin A340-53-5056, excluding Appendices 01 and 02, dated October 7, 2010 (for Model A340-500 and -600 series airplanes).

(3) For any nut that is neither missing nor cracked: Before further flight, replace that nut with a new nut having the same part number, in accordance with the Accomplishment Instructions of Airbus Mandatory Service Bulletin A330-53-3183, excluding Appendices 01 and 02, dated September 30, 2010 (for Model A330-200 and -300 series airplanes); or Airbus Mandatory Service Bulletin A340-53-5056, excluding Appendices 01 and 02, dated October 7, 2010 (for Model A340-500 and -600 series airplanes).

(i) Other FAA AD Provisions

The following provisions also apply to this AD:

(1) Alternative Methods of Compliance (AMOCs): The Manager, ANM-116, International Branch, 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 Branch, send it to ATTN: Vladimir Ulyanov, Aerospace Engineer, International Branch, ANM-116, Transport Airplane Directorate, FAA, 1601 Lind Avenue SW., Renton, Washington 98057-3356; telephone [phone]; fax [phone]. Information may be emailed to: [e-mail]. 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. The AMOC approval letter must specifically reference this AD.

(2) Airworthy Product: For any requirement in this AD to obtain corrective actions from a manufacturer or other source, use these actions if they are FAA-approved. Corrective actions are considered FAA-approved if they are approved by the State of Design Authority (or their delegated agent). You are required to assure the product is airworthy before it is returned to service.

(j) Related Information

Refer to Mandatory Continuing Airworthiness Information (MCAI) European Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) Airworthiness Directive 2010-0252, dated November 29, 2010, and the service information identified in paragraphs (k)(1) and (k)(2) of this AD for related information.

(1) Airbus Mandatory Service Bulletin A330-53-3183, excluding Appendices 01 and 02, dated September 30, 2010.

(2) Airbus Mandatory Service Bulletin A340-53-5056, excluding Appendices 01 and 02, dated October 7, 2010.

(k) Material Incorporated by Reference

(1) You must use the following service information to do the actions required by this AD, unless the AD specifies otherwise. The Director of the Federal Register approved the incorporation by reference (IBR) of the following service information under 5 U.S.C. 552(a) and 1 CFR part 51:

(i) Airbus Mandatory Service Bulletin A330-53-3183, excluding Appendices 01 and 02, dated September 30, 2010.

(ii) Airbus Mandatory Service Bulletin A340-53-5056, excluding Appendices 01 and 02, dated October 7, 2010.

(2) For service information identified in this AD, contact Airbus SAS—Airworthiness Office—EAL, 1 Rond Point Maurice Bellonte, 31707 Blagnac Cedex, France; telephone [phone]; fax [phone]; email [e-mail]; Internet http://www.airbus.com,,

(3) You may review copies of the service information at the FAA, Transport Airplane Directorate, 1601 Lind Avenue SW., Renton, Washington. For information on the availability of this material at the FAA, call 425-227-1221.

(4) You may also review copies of the 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/​code_​of_​federal_​regulations/​ibr_​locations.html.

Issued in Renton, Washington, on March 8, 2012.

Ali Bahrami,

Manager, Transport Airplane Directorate, Aircraft Certification Service.