[Federal Register Volume 65, Number 250 (Thursday, December 28, 2000)]
[Rules and Regulations]
[Pages 82259-82261]
From the Federal Register Online via the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]
[FR Doc No: 00-32763]
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DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION
Federal Aviation Administration
14 CFR Part 39
[Docket No. 2000-NM-399-AD; Amendment 39-12051; AD 2000-25-53]
RIN 2120-AA64
Airworthiness Directives; Airbus Model A330 Series Airplanes
AGENCY: Federal Aviation Administration, DOT.
ACTION: Final rule; request for comments.
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SUMMARY: This document publishes in the Federal Register an amendment
adopting airworthiness directive (AD) 2000-25-53, which was sent
previously to all known U.S. owners and operators of Airbus Model A330
series airplanes by individual notices. This AD requires either
repetitive detailed visual inspections or repetitive borescopic
inspections to detect cracking or other damage of the barrel nuts of
the engine aft mount; and replacement of any cracked nut and its
associated bolt with a new nut and bolt, or replacement of all 4 nuts
and their associated bolts if two or more nuts on the same engine mount
are found cracked. This action is prompted by issuance of mandatory
continuing airworthiness information by a foreign civil airworthiness
authority. The actions specified by this AD are intended to detect and
correct cracking of the aft engine mount nut, which could result in
reduced structural integrity of the engine-to-pylon aft mount assembly,
or, in the case of multiple cracked nuts, possible loss of an engine.
DATES: Effective January 2, 2001, to all persons except those persons
to whom it was made immediately effective by emergency AD 2000-25-53,
issued December 9, 2000, which contained the requirements of this
amendment.
The incorporation by reference of certain publications listed in
the regulations is approved by the Director of the Federal Register as
of January 2, 2001.
Comments for inclusion in the Rules Docket must be received on or
before January 29, 2001.
ADDRESSES: Submit comments in triplicate to the Federal Aviation
Administration (FAA), Transport Airplane Directorate, ANM-114,
Attention: Rules Docket No. 2000-NM-399-AD, 1601 Lind Avenue, SW.,
Renton, Washington 98055-4056. Comments may be inspected at this
location between 9 a.m. and 3 p.m., Monday through Friday, except
Federal holidays. Comments may be submitted via fax to (425) 227-1232.
Comments may also be sent via the Internet using the following address:
[email protected]. Comments sent via fax or the Internet must
contain ``Docket No. 2000-NM-399-AD'' in the subject line and need not
be submitted in triplicate. Comments sent via the Internet as attached
electronic files must be formatted in Microsoft Word 97 for Windows or
ASCII text.
The applicable service information may be obtained from Airbus
Industrie, 1 Rond Point Maurice Bellonte, 31707 Blagnac Cedex, France.
This information may be examined at the FAA, Transport Airplane
Directorate, 1601 Lind Avenue, SW., Renton, Washington; or at the
Office of the Federal Register, 800 North Capitol Street, NW., suite
700, Washington, DC.
FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Tim Backman, Aerospace Engineer,
International Branch, ANM-116, FAA, 1601 Lind Avenue, SW., Renton,
[[Page 82260]]
Washington 98055-4056; telephone (206) 227-2797; fax (206) 227-1149.
SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: On December 9, 2000, the FAA issued
emergency AD 2000-25-53, which is applicable to certain Airbus Model
A330 series airplanes. That action was prompted by issuance of
mandatory continuing airworthiness information by the Direction
Generale de l'Aviation Civile (DGAC), which is the airworthiness
authority for France.
The DGAC recently notified the FAA that an unsafe condition may
exist on certain Airbus Model A330 series airplanes. The DGAC advises
that there have been at least 5 occurrences of cracked aft engine mount
nuts with two found broken (having a crack from the top to the bottom
of the nut). Analysis of failed aft engine mount nuts has not yet
identified the root cause; however, the cracks resulted from tensile
overstress. The DGAC further advises that use of an anti-seize
compound, rather than engine oil, for bolt/nut lubrication decreases
the frictional loads on the threads of the bolt and nut, and
significantly increases the preload for a given torque value. If
excessive torque is applied to the bolt, the resultant preload on the
bolt and nut can cause overstress and failure of the nut. This
condition, if not corrected, could result in reduced structural
integrity of the engine-to-pylon aft mount assembly, or, in the case of
multiple cracked nuts, possible loss of an engine.
Explanation of Relevant Service Information
Airbus has issued All Operators Telex (AOT) A330-71A3014, dated
December 8, 2000, which describes procedures for repetitive detailed
visual or borescopic inspections to detect cracking and other damage of
the barrel nuts of the engine aft mount. Corrective actions include
replacing any damaged nut and its associated bolt with a new nut and
bolt having the same part number. If two or more nuts on the same
engine mount are found broken (i.e., having a crack from the top to the
bottom of the nut), the AOT prescribes replacement of all four nuts and
their associated bolts. The DGAC classified this AOT as mandatory and
issued French telegraphic airworthiness directive T2000-523-134(B),
dated December 8, 2000, to ensure the continued airworthiness of these
airplanes in France.
Airbus AOT A330-71A3014, dated December 8, 2000, refers to Pratt &
Whitney Service Bulletin PW4G-100-71-16, Revision 1, dated September
15, 1999, as an additional source of service information for replacing
the nuts and bolts.
FAA's Conclusions
This airplane model is manufactured in France and is type
certificated for operation in the United States under the provisions of
section 21.29 of the Federal Aviation Regulations (14 CFR 21.29) and
the applicable bilateral airworthiness agreement. Pursuant to this
bilateral airworthiness agreement, the DGAC has kept the FAA informed
of the situation described above. The FAA has examined the findings of
the DGAC, reviewed all available information, and determined that AD
action is necessary for products of this type design that are
certificated for operation in the United States.
Explanation of the Requirements of the Rule
Since the unsafe condition described is likely to exist or develop
on other airplanes of the same type design registered in the United
States, the FAA issued emergency AD 2000-25-53 to detect and correct
cracking of the aft engine mount nut, which could result in reduced
structural integrity of the engine-to-pylon aft mount assembly, or, in
the case of multiple cracked nuts, possible loss of an engine. The AD
requires either repetitive detailed visual inspections or repetitive
borescopic inspections to detect cracking or other damage of the barrel
nuts of the engine aft mount; and replacement of any cracked nut and
its associated bolt with a new nut and bolt, or replacement of all 4
nuts and their associated bolts if two or more nuts on the same engine
mount are found cracked. The actions are required to be accomplished in
accordance with the AOT previously described.
Explanation of Applicability
This AD is applicable to Airbus Model A330 series airplanes
equipped with Pratt & Whitney 4000 series engines fitted with engine
aft mount nuts and bolts installed in accordance with Airbus
Modification 46948 (installed on in-service airplanes per Airbus
Service Bulletin A330-71-3012). The modification involves installing
bolts and nuts made of MP159 material, to replace nuts and bolts made
of the INCO718 material previously used. The Pratt & Whitney service
bulletin, described previously, describes instructions for installing
these parts, as referenced by Airbus Service Bulletin A330-71-3012.
Editorial Changes
Certain typographical errors were discovered in the version of AD
2000-25-53 that was sent previously to U.S. owners and operators of
Airbus Model A330 series airplanes. Specifically, there were two notes
identified as Note ``2'' and two notes identified as Note ``3.'' The
notes have been correctly identified in this AD.
Interim Action
This is considered to be interim action. The manufacturer reports
that further analysis is required to identify the root cause of the
barrel nut failure. Continued inspections will provide better insight
into the nature, cause, and prevalence of the cracking. If further
action is identified to address the unsafe condition, the FAA may
consider further rulemaking.
Determination of Rule's Effective Date
Since it was found that immediate corrective action was required,
notice and opportunity for prior public comment thereon were
impracticable and contrary to the public interest, and good cause
existed to make the AD effective immediately by individual notices
issued on December 9, 2000, to all known U.S. owners and operators of
Airbus Model A330 series airplanes. These conditions still exist, and
the AD is hereby published in the Federal Register as an amendment to
section 39.13 of the Federal Aviation Regulations (14 CFR 39.13) to
make it effective as to all persons.
Comments Invited
Although this action is in the form of a final rule that involves
requirements affecting flight safety and, thus, was not preceded by
notice and an opportunity for public comment, comments are invited on
this rule. Interested persons are invited to comment on this rule by
submitting such written data, views, or arguments as they may desire.
Communications shall identify the Rules Docket number and be submitted
in triplicate to the address specified under the caption ADDRESSES. All
communications received on or before the closing date for comments will
be considered, and this rule may be amended in light of the comments
received. Factual information that supports the commenter's ideas and
suggestions is extremely helpful in evaluating the effectiveness of the
AD action and determining whether additional rulemaking action would be
needed.
Comments are specifically invited on the overall regulatory,
economic, environmental, and energy aspects of the rule that might
suggest a need to modify the rule. All comments submitted will be
available, both before and after the closing date for comments, in the
Rules Docket for examination by
[[Page 82261]]
interested persons. A report that summarizes each FAA-public contact
concerned with the substance of this AD will be filed in the Rules
Docket.
Commenters wishing the FAA to acknowledge receipt of their comments
submitted in response to this rule must submit a self-addressed,
stamped postcard on which the following statement is made: ``Comments
to Docket Number 2000-NM-399-AD.'' The postcard will be date stamped
and returned to the commenter.
Regulatory Impact
The regulations adopted herein 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.
Therefore, it is determined that this final rule does not have
federalism implications under Executive Order 13132.
The FAA has determined that this regulation is an emergency
regulation that must be issued immediately to correct an unsafe
condition in aircraft, and that it is not a ``significant regulatory
action'' under Executive Order 12866. It has been determined further
that this action involves an emergency regulation under DOT Regulatory
Policies and Procedures (44 FR 11034, February 26, 1979). If it is
determined that this emergency regulation otherwise would be
significant under DOT Regulatory Policies and Procedures, a final
regulatory evaluation will be prepared and placed in the Rules Docket.
A copy of it, if filed, may be obtained from the Rules Docket at
the location provided under the caption ADDRESSES.
List of Subjects in 14 CFR Part 39
Air transportation, Aircraft, Aviation safety, Incorporation by
reference, Safety.
Adoption of the Amendment
Accordingly, pursuant to the authority delegated to me by the
Administrator, the Federal Aviation Administration amends part 39 of
the Federal Aviation Regulations (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.
Sec. 39.13 [Amended]
2. Section 39.13 is amended by adding the following new
airworthiness directive:
2000-25-53 Airbus Industrie: Amendment 39-12051. Docket 2000-NM-399-
AD.
Applicability: Model A330 series airplanes equipped with Pratt &
Whitney 4000 series engines, certificated in any category; fitted
with engine aft mount nuts and bolts installed in accordance with
Airbus Modification 46948 (installed on in-service airplanes per
Airbus Service Bulletin A330-71-3012).
Note 1: This AD applies to each airplane identified in the
preceding applicability provision, regardless of whether it has been
modified, altered, or repaired in the area subject to the
requirements of this AD. For airplanes that have been modified,
altered, or repaired so that the performance of the requirements of
this AD is affected, the owner/operator must request approval for an
alternative method of compliance in accordance with paragraph (b) of
this AD. The request should include an assessment of the effect of
the modification, alteration, or repair on the unsafe condition
addressed by this AD; and, if the unsafe condition has not been
eliminated, the request should include specific proposed actions to
address it.
Compliance: Required as indicated, unless accomplished
previously.
To detect and correct cracking of the aft engine mount nut,
which could result in reduced structural integrity of the engine-to-
pylon aft mount assembly, or, in the case of multiple cracked nuts,
possible loss of an engine, accomplish the following:
Inspection
(a) Before the next flight, perform either a detailed visual or
borescopic inspection to detect cracking or other damage of all 4
barrel nuts of each engine aft mount, in accordance with paragraph
4.2.1 of Airbus All Operators Telex (AOT) A330-71A3014, dated
December 8, 2000. If any cracking or damage is detected, before
further flight, replace nuts and their associated bolts, as
applicable, in accordance with paragraph 4.2.2 of the AOT. Repeat
the inspection thereafter at least every 50 flight cycles.
Note 2: For the purposes of this AD, a detailed visual
inspection is defined as: ``An intensive visual examination of a
specific structural area, system, installation, or assembly to
detect damage, failure, or irregularity. Available lighting is
normally supplemented with a direct source of good lighting at
intensity deemed appropriate by the inspector. Inspection aids such
as mirror, magnifying lenses, etc., may be used. Surface cleaning
and elaborate access procedures may be required.''
Note 3: Airbus AOT A330-71A3014, dated December 8, 2000, refers
to Pratt & Whitney Service Bulletin PW4G-100-71-16, Revision 1,
dated September 15, 1999, as an additional source of service
information for replacing the nuts and bolts.
Alternative Methods of Compliance
(b) An alternative method of compliance or adjustment of the
compliance time that provides an acceptable level of safety may be
used if approved by the Manager, International Branch, ANM-116,
Transport Airplane Directorate, FAA. Operators shall submit their
requests through an appropriate FAA Principal Maintenance Inspector,
who may add comments and then send it to the Manager, International
Branch, ANM-116.
Note 4: Information concerning the existence of approved
alternative methods of compliance with this AD, if any, may be
obtained from the International Branch, ANM-116.
Special Flight Permits
(c) Special flight permits may be issued in accordance with
sections 21.197 and 21.199 of the Federal Aviation Regulations (14
CFR 21.197 and 21.199) to operate the airplane to a location where
the requirements of this AD can be accomplished.
Incorporation by Reference
(d) The actions shall be done in accordance with Airbus All
Operators Telex A330-71A3014, dated December 8, 2000. This
incorporation by reference was approved by the Director of the
Federal Register in accordance with 5 U.S.C. 552(a) and 1 CFR part
51. Copies may be obtained from Airbus Industrie, 1 Rond Point
Maurice Bellonte, 31707 Blagnac Cedex, France. Copies may be
inspected at the FAA, Transport Airplane Directorate, 1601 Lind
Avenue, SW., Renton, Washington; or at the Office of the Federal
Register, 800 North Capitol Street, NW., suite 700, Washington, DC.
Note 5: The subject of this AD is addressed in French
telegraphic airworthiness directive T2000-523-134(B), dated December
8, 2000.
Effective Date
(e) This amendment becomes effective on January 2, 2001, to all
persons except those persons to whom it was made immediately
effective by emergency AD 2000-25-53, issued December 9, 2000, which
contained the requirements of this amendment.
Issued in Renton, Washington, on December 18, 2000.
Dorenda D. Baker,
Acting Manager, Transport Airplane Directorate, Aircraft Certification
Service.
[FR Doc. 00-32763 Filed 12-27-00; 8:45 am]
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