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[Federal Register Volume 78, Number 106 (Monday, June 3, 2013)]
[Proposed Rules]
[Pages 33010-33012]
From the Federal Register Online via the Government Printing Office [www.gpo.gov]
[FR Doc No: 2013-13006]

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DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION

Federal Aviation Administration

14 CFR Part 39

[Docket No. FAA-2013-0460; Directorate Identifier 2012-NM-222-AD]
RIN 2120-AA64

Airworthiness Directives; Saab AB, Saab Aerosystems Airplanes

AGENCY: Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), DOT.

ACTION: Notice of proposed rulemaking (NPRM).

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SUMMARY: We propose to adopt a new airworthiness directive (AD) for all 
Saab AB, Saab Aerosystems Model 340B airplanes. This proposed AD was 
prompted by a report that the elevator position quoted in an aircraft 
maintenance manual is incorrect for Saab 340B airplane. This proposed 
AD would require an inspection of the stick pusher rigging and an 
adjustment to the correct setting if necessary. We are proposing this 
AD to correct the rigging of the elevator position of the stick pusher 
to reduce the probability of a negative effect on the handling quality 
during stall, which could result in reduced controllability of the 
airplane.

DATES: We must receive comments on this proposed AD by July 18, 2013.

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: (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, between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m., Monday 
through Friday, except Federal holidays.
    For service information identified in this proposed AD, contact 
Saab AB, Saab Aeronautics, SE-581 88, Link[ouml]ping, Sweden; telephone 
+46 13 18 5591; fax +46 13 18 4874; email 
saab340techsupport@saabgroup.com; Internet http://www.saabgroup.com. 
You may review copies of the referenced service information at the FAA, 
Transport Airplane Directorate, 1601 Lind Avenue SW., Renton, WA. For 
information on the availability of this material at the FAA, call 425-
227-1221.

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 proposed AD, the regulatory 
evaluation, any comments received, and other information. The street 
address for the Docket Operations office (telephone (800) 647-5527) is 
in the ADDRESSES section. Comments will be available in the AD docket 
shortly after receipt.

FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Shahram Daneshmandi, Aerospace 
Engineer, International Branch, ANM-116, Transport Airplane 
Directorate, FAA, 1601 Lind Avenue SW., Renton, Washington 98057-3356; 
telephone (425) 227-1112; fax (425) 227-1149.

SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: 

Comments Invited

    We invite you to send any written relevant data, views, or 
arguments about this proposed AD. Send your comments to an address 
listed under the ADDRESSES section. Include ``Docket No. FAA-2013-0460; 
Directorate Identifier 2012-NM-222-AD'' at the beginning of your 
comments. We specifically invite comments on the overall regulatory, 
economic, environmental, and energy aspects of this proposed AD. We 
will consider all comments received by the closing date and may amend 
this proposed AD based on 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 proposed AD.

Discussion

    The European Aviation Safety Agency (EASA), which is the aviation 
authority for the Member States of the European Community, has issued 
EASA Airworthiness Directive 2012-0256, dated December 3, 2012 
(referred to after this as the Mandatory Continuing Airworthiness 
Information, or ``the MCAI''), to correct an unsafe condition for the 
specified products. The MCAI states:

    The standard stick pusher maximum elevator position of a SAAB 
340B, prior to delivery, is set at 7.5 degrees trailing edge down. 
It was recently discovered that this value has been incorrectly 
referenced in the SAAB 340B Aircraft Maintenance Manual (AMM), which 
quotes an elevator position of 4 degrees trailing edge down for all 
aeroplanes, which is the correct value for SAAB SF340A aeroplanes 
only.
    If a SAAB 340B aeroplane has been re-rigged in accordance with 
current AMM procedure, there is a possibility that the deflection of 
the elevator will be less than intended.
    This condition, if not corrected, will affect the stall 
characteristics on the outer part of the envelope at maximum flap 
setting and aft centre of gravity (CG) configuration, possibly 
resulting in reduced control of the aeroplane.
    To address this potential unsafe condition, SAAB AB Aeronautics 
issued Service Bulletin (SB) 340-27-105 to reduce the probability of 
a negative effect on the handling quality during stall.
    For the reasons described above, this [EASA] AD requires a one-
time inspection of the stick pusher rigging and, depending on 
findings, adjustment to the correct setting.

The reference in the aircraft maintenance manual (AMM) for setting the 
maximum elevator position of the stick pusher of SAAB 340B model was 
corrected in December 2012 to show the correct value of 7.5 degrees 
trailing edge down. The revised AMM showing the correct value was 
provided to the operators of Saab 340B Model airplanes by the 
manufacturer. You may obtain further information by examining the MCAI 
in the AD docket.

Relevant Service Information

    Saab has issued Service Bulletin 340-27-105, Revision 01, dated 
August 31, 2012. 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 Proposed 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

[[Page 33011]]

MCAI and service information referenced above. We are proposing this AD 
because we evaluated all pertinent information and determined an unsafe 
condition exists and is likely to exist or develop on other products of 
the same type design.

Costs of Compliance

    Based on the service information, we estimate that this proposed AD 
would affect about 109 products of U.S. registry. We also estimate that 
it would take about 12 work-hours per product to comply with the basic 
requirements of this proposed AD. The average labor rate is $85 per 
work-hour. Required parts would cost about $10 per product. Where the 
service information lists required parts costs that are covered under 
warranty, we have assumed that there will be no charge for these parts. 
As we do not control warranty coverage for affected parties, some 
parties may incur costs higher than estimated here. Based on these 
figures, we estimate the cost of the proposed AD on U.S. operators to 
be $112,270, or $1,030 per product.

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 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 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. 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 proposed 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.

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 adding the following new AD:

Saab AB, Saab Aerosystems: Docket No. FAA-2013-0460; Directorate 
Identifier 2012-NM-222-AD.

(a) Comments Due Date

    We must receive comments by July 18, 2013.

(b) Affected ADs

    None.

(c) Applicability

    This AD applies to Saab AB, Saab Aerosystems Model 340B 
airplanes, certificated in any category, all serial numbers.

(d) Subject

    Air Transport Association (ATA) of America Code 27: Flight 
Controls.

(e) Reason

    This AD was prompted by a report that the elevator position 
quoted in an aircraft maintenance manual is incorrect for Saab 340B 
airplane. We are issuing this AD to correct the rigging of the 
elevator position of the stick pusher to reduce the probability of a 
negative effect on the handling quality during stall, which could 
result in reduced controllability 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) Actions

    Within 24 months after the effective date of this AD, inspect 
the stick pusher rigging, in accordance with the Accomplishment 
Instructions of Saab Service Bulletin 340-27-105, Revision 1, dated 
August 31, 2012. If an incorrect setting of the stick pusher maximum 
elevator position is found, before further flight, adjust the stick 
pusher rigging and do all applicable related investigative and 
corrective actions in accordance with the Accomplishment 
Instructions of Saab Service Bulletin 340-27-105, Revision 1, dated 
August 31, 2012.

(h) Reporting Requirement

    If during the inspection required by paragraph (g) of this AD, 
the elevator position is found outside specified limit, submit a 
report of the findings to: Saab AB, Business Area Support and 
Services, Air Division, Technical Support email: 
Saab340.techsupport@saabgroup.com Fax: +46 (0) 13 18 48 74 at the 
applicable time specified in paragraph (h)(1) or (h)(2) of this AD. 
The report must include the value and corrective action. Under the 
provisions of the Paperwork Reduction Act (44 U.S.C. 3501 et seq.), 
the Office of Management and Budget (OMB) has approved the 
information collection requirements contained in this AD and has 
assigned OMB Control Number 2120 0056.
    (1) If the inspection was done on or after the effective date of 
this AD: Submit the report within 30 days after the corrective 
action.
    (2) If the inspection and corrective action was done before the 
effective date of this AD: Submit the report within 30 days after 
the effective date of this AD.

(i) Credit for Previous Actions

    This paragraph provides credit for actions required by paragraph 
(g) of this AD, if those actions were performed before the effective 
date of this AD using Saab Service Bulletin 340-27-105, dated July 
12, 2012.

(j) Other FAA AD Provisions

    The following provisions also apply to this AD:
    (1) Alternative Methods of Compliance (AMOCs): The Manager, ANM-
116, International Branch, Transport Airplane Directorate, 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 Branch, send it to ATTN: Shahram 
Daneshmandi, Aerospace Engineer, International Branch, ANM-116, 
Transport Airplane Directorate, FAA, 1601 Lind Avenue SW., Renton, 
Washington 98057-3356; telephone (425) 227-1112; fax (425) 227-1149. 
Information may be emailed to: 9-ANM-116-AMOC-REQUESTS@faa.gov. 
Before using any approved AMOC, notify your appropriate principal 
inspector, or lacking a principal inspector, the manager of the 
local flight standards district office/

[[Page 33012]]

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.
    (3) Reporting Requirements: A federal agency may not conduct or 
sponsor, and a person is not required to respond to, nor shall a 
person be subject to a penalty for failure to comply with a 
collection of information subject to the requirements of the 
Paperwork Reduction Act unless that collection of information 
displays a current valid OMB Control Number. The OMB Control Number 
for this information collection is 2120 0056. Public reporting for 
this collection of information is estimated to be approximately 5 
minutes per response, including the time for reviewing instructions, 
completing and reviewing the collection of information. All 
responses to this collection of information are mandatory. Comments 
concerning the accuracy of this burden and suggestions for reducing 
the burden should be directed to the FAA at: 800 Independence Ave. 
SW., Washington, DC 20591, Attn: Information Collection Clearance 
Officer, AES-200.

(k) Related Information

    (1) Refer to Mandatory Continuing Airworthiness Information 
(MCAI) European Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) Airworthiness 
Directive 2012-0256, dated December 3, 2012; and Saab Service 
Bulletin 340-27-105, Revision 01, dated August 31, 2012; for related 
information.
    (2) For service information identified in this AD, contact Saab 
AB, Saab Aeronautics, SE-581 88, Link[ouml]ping, Sweden; telephone 
+46 13 18 5591; fax +46 13 18 4874; email 
saab340techsupport@saabgroup.com; Internet http://www.saabgroup.com. 
You may review copies of the referenced service information at the 
FAA, Transport Airplane Directorate, 1601 Lind Avenue SW., Renton, 
WA. For information on the availability of this material at the FAA, 
call 425-227-1221.

    Issued in Renton, Washington, on May 22, 2013.
Jeffrey E. Duven,
Acting Manager, Transport Airplane Directorate, Aircraft Certification 
Service.
[FR Doc. 2013-13006 Filed 5-31-13; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE 4910-13-P
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