Document ID: FAA-2015-8470-0004
Agency: faa
Document Type: Rule
Title: Airworthiness Directives: Airbus Airplanes
Posted Date: 2016-10-18T04:00Z

[Federal Register Volume 81, Number 201 (Tuesday, October 18, 2016)]
[Rules and Regulations]
[Pages 71596-71602]
From the Federal Register Online via the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]
[FR Doc No: 2016-23261]

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DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION

Federal Aviation Administration

14 CFR Part 39

[Docket No. FAA-2015-8470; Directorate Identifier 2013-NM-199-AD; 
Amendment 39-18674; AD 2016-20-08]
RIN 2120-AA64

Airworthiness Directives; Airbus Airplanes

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

ACTION: Final rule.

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SUMMARY: We are superseding Airworthiness Directive (AD) 95-21-09 for 
all Airbus Model A300 series airplanes, and Airbus Model A300 B4-600, 
B4-600R, and F4-600R series airplanes, and Model A300 C4-605R Variant F 
airplanes (collectively called Model A300-600 series airplanes). AD 95-
21-09 required repetitive inspections for cracking of the No. 2 flap 
beams, and replacement of the flap beams, if necessary; and provided 
optional modifications for extending certain inspection thresholds, and 
an optional terminating modification for certain inspections. This new 
AD requires reduced compliance times for inspections and also reduces 
the number of airplanes affected. This AD was prompted by a 
determination that the compliance times must be reduced. We are issuing 
this AD to detect and correct cracking of the No. 2 flap beams, which 
could result in rupture of the flap beams and reduced structural 
integrity of the airplane.

DATES: This AD is effective November 22, 2016.
    The Director of the Federal Register approved the incorporation by 
reference of certain publications listed in this AD as of November 22, 
2016.
    The Director of the Federal Register approved the incorporation by 
reference of certain other publications listed in this AD as of 
November 17, 1995 (60 FR 53847, October 18, 1995).

ADDRESSES: For service information identified in this final rule, 
contact Airbus SAS, Airworthiness Office--EAW, 1 Rond Point Maurice 
Bellonte, 31707 Blagnac Cedex, France; telephone +33 5 61 93 36 96; fax 
+33 5 61 93 44 51; email account.airworth-eas@airbus.com; Internet 
http://www.airbus.com. You may view this referenced service information 
at the FAA, Transport Airplane Directorate, 1601 Lind Avenue SW., 
Renton, WA. For information on the availability of

[[Page 71597]]

this material at the FAA, call 425-227-1221. It is also available on 
the Internet at http://www.regulations.gov by searching for and 
locating Docket No. FAA-2015-8470.

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-2015-
8470; or in person at the Docket Management Facility 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 address for the Docket Office (telephone 800-
647-5527) is Docket Management Facility, 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: Dan Rodina, Aerospace Engineer, 
International Branch, ANM-116, Transport Airplane Directorate, FAA, 
1601 Lind Avenue SW., Renton, WA 98057-3356; telephone 425-227-2125; 
fax 425-227-1149.

SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: 

Discussion

    We issued a notice of proposed rulemaking (NPRM) to amend 14 CFR 
part 39 to supersede AD 95-21-09, Amendment 39-9395 (60 FR 53847, 
October 18, 1995) (``AD 95-21-09''). AD 95-21-09 applied to all Airbus 
Model A300 and A300-600 series airplanes. The NPRM published in the 
Federal Register on January 20, 2016 (81 FR 3045) (``the NPRM'').
    The European Aviation Safety Agency (EASA), which is the Technical 
Agent for the Member States of the European Union, has issued EASA AD 
2013-0234R2, dated October 7, 2013 (referred to after this as the 
Mandatory Continuing Airworthiness Information, or ``the MCAI''), to 
correct an unsafe condition for certain Airbus Model A300 and A300-600 
series airplanes. The MCAI states:

    Fatigue and ``fail safe'' tests developed on a test specimen 
confirmed that cracks may appear and propagate from the bolt holes 
of the base member and the side members of flap beam No. 2.
    The development of such cracks, if not detected, could result in 
a rupture of flap beams No. 2, which could adversely affect the 
structural integrity of the airframe.
    To address this potential unsafe condition, Airbus issued 
Service Bulletin (SB) A300-57-0116 and SB A300-57-6005 and DGAC 
[Direction G[eacute]n[eacute]rale de l'Aviation Civile] France 
issued AD 1986-187-076(B), later revised, to require a repetitive 
inspection programme [and corrective action] for A300 and A300-600 
aeroplanes. [French AD 86-187-076(B)R3, dated March 2, 1994, 
corresponds to FAA AD 95-21-09, which superseded FAA AD 85-07-04, 
Amendment 39-5027 (50 FR 13013, April 2, 1985).]
    For A300 aeroplanes, and in the frame of the Extended Service 
Goal (ESG) exercise, it was shown that design changes (Airbus Mod. 
4740/Airbus SB A300-57-0128 or Airbus Mod. 5815/Airbus SB A300-57-
0141) were not sufficient to enable full ESG life without 
inspections.
    For A300-600 aeroplanes, since DGAC France AD 1986-187-076(B) 
was issued, a fleet survey and updated Fatigue and Damage Tolerance 
analyses have been performed in order to substantiate the second 
A300-600 ESG2 exercise. Airbus SB A300-57-6005 has been revised 
accordingly to decrease the inspection thresholds and intervals.
    For the reasons described above, this [EASA] AD retains the 
requirements of DGAC France AD 1986-187-076(B)R4, which is 
superseded, and requires those inspections to be accomplished at 
reduced thresholds and intervals.
    This [EASA] AD has been revised to correct typographical errors 
in some compliance times defined in Appendix 1, Tables 1 and 2.

    The MCAI also reduces the number of airplanes identified in the 
applicability by exempting certain Model A300-600 airplanes on which 
certain Airbus modifications have been embodied. 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-2015-8470.

Comments

    We gave the public the opportunity to participate in developing 
this AD. The following presents the comments received on the NPRM and 
the FAA's response to each comment.

Request To Remove Certain Exceptions in the Proposed Applicability

    United Parcel Service (UPS) requested that the applicability 
exceptions in paragraphs (c)(3) and (c)(4) of the proposed AD be 
revised to remove Airbus Modifications 11133 and 12699 as exceptions. 
UPS stated that the exceptions provided in paragraphs (c)(3) and (c)(4) 
of the proposed AD are inconsistent with the effectivity specified in 
the service information referenced in the NPRM. UPS pointed out that 
the effectivity of Airbus Service Bulletin A300-57-6005, Revision 06, 
dated November 14, 2013, applies to airplanes with manufacturer serial 
number (MSN) 775 and subsequent, with MSN 775 as the production cut-in 
for Airbus Modification 11133. UPS asserted that this service 
bulletin's effectivity also does not list all post-modification 11133 
and 12699 airplanes. UPS stated that the determining factor for the 
service information effectivity is whether an airplane is approved for 
the extended service goal (ESG-2) operational life or not. UPS also 
pointed out that the effectivity of Airbus Service Bulletin A300-57-
6005, Revision 06, dated November 14, 2013, does not include Model A300 
F4-622 airplanes that are in a UPS configuration (Airbus Modifications 
11133, 12047, 12048, 12050, but not 12699), which would mean UPS would 
need to request an alternative method of compliance (AMOC) or other 
means to show compliance for those airplanes.
    We acknowledge the concern UPS identified regarding the clarity of 
the AD applicability. Therefore, we have revised the applicability to 
match the related MCAI, which should address UPS's concern. We do not 
intend for this AD to affect UPS's specified A300 F4-622R configuration 
(Airbus Modifications 11133, 12047, 12048, 12050, but not 12699). We 
have revised paragraph (c)(4) of this AD accordingly. However, we do 
not agree to delete references to both Airbus Modifications 11133 and 
12699 from the applicability of this AD since there are airplanes with 
these modifications in the worldwide fleet that might be imported and 
placed on the U.S. Register. Therefore, we have not removed references 
to Airbus Modifications 11133 and 12699 from paragraphs (c)(3) and 
(c)(4) of this AD.

Request To Remove Typographical Error

    UPS requested that paragraph (l)(2) of the proposed AD be revised 
to remove a typographical error that resulted in listing Model A300 F4-
622R airplanes twice.
    We agree that there was a typographical error, as described by UPS. 
We have removed the redundant reference in this AD.

Additional Change to This AD

    We added new paragraph (m) to this AD to specify clearly the 
required calculation method for establishing the average flight times 
(AFT) for the compliance times for certain inspections required by this 
AD. We also redesignated subsequent paragraphs.

Conclusion

    We reviewed the available data, including the comments received, 
and determined that air safety and the public interest require adopting 
this AD with the changes described previously

[[Page 71598]]

and minor editorial changes. We have determined that these changes:
     Are consistent with the intent that was proposed in the 
NPRM for correcting the unsafe condition; and
     Do not add any additional burden upon the public than was 
already proposed in the NPRM.

Related Service Information Under 1 CFR Part 51

    Airbus has issued Service Bulletins A300-57-0116, Revision 07, 
dated September 19, 2011, including Appendixes A and B; and A300-57-
6005, Revision 06, dated November 14, 2013. This service information 
describes procedures for ultrasonic inspections of the No. 2 flap beam 
base and side members. These documents are distinct since they apply to 
different airplane models. This service information 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

    We estimate that this AD affects 49 airplanes of U.S. registry.
    The actions required by AD 95-21-09 and retained in this AD, take 
about 6 work-hours per product, at an average labor rate of $85 per 
work-hour. Required parts cost about $0 per product. Based on these 
figures, the estimated cost of the actions that were required by AD 95-
21-09 is $510 per product, per inspection cycle.
    We also estimate that it takes about 6 work-hours per product to 
comply with the basic requirements of this AD. The average labor rate 
is $85 per work-hour. Based on these figures, we estimate the cost of 
this AD on U.S. operators to be $24,990 per inspection cycle, or $510 
per product, per inspection cycle.
    We have received no definitive data that would enable us to provide 
cost estimates for the on-condition actions specified in 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 that 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.

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 removing Airworthiness Directive (AD) 
95-21-09, Amendment 39-9395 (60 FR 53847, October 18, 1995), and adding 
the following new AD:

2016-20-08 Airbus: Amendment 39-18674; Docket No. FAA-2015-8470; 
Directorate Identifier 2013-NM-199-AD.

(a) Effective Date

    This AD is effective November 22, 2016.

(b) Affected ADs

    This AD replaces AD 95-21-09, Amendment 39-9395 (60 FR 53847, 
October 18, 1995) (``AD 95-21-09'').

(c) Applicability

    This AD applies to the Airbus airplanes identified in paragraphs 
(c)(1) through (c)(5) of this AD, certificated in any category.
    (1) Airbus Model A300 B2-1A, B2-1C, B2K-3C, B2-203, B4-2C, B4-
103, and B4-203 airplanes, all manufacturer serial numbers (MSNs).
    (2) Airbus Model A300 B4-601, B4-603, B4-620, B4-622, B4-605R, 
and B4-622R airplanes, all MSNs.
    (3) Airbus Model A300 F4-605R, all MSNs, except those airplanes 
on which both Airbus Modifications 11133 and 12699 have been 
embodied.
    (4) Airbus Model A300 F4-622R airplanes, all MSNs, except those 
airplanes on which the modifications identified in paragraph 
(c)(4)(i) or (c)(4)(ii) of this AD have been embodied.
    (i) All Airbus Modifications 11133, 12047, 12048, and 12050 have 
been embodied.
    (ii) Both Airbus Modifications 11133 and 12699 have been 
embodied.
    (5) Airbus Model A300 C4-605R Variant F airplanes, all MSNs.

(d) Subject

    Air Transport Association (ATA) of America Code 57, Wings.

(e) Reason

    This AD was prompted by a determination that the compliance 
times must be reduced. We are issuing this AD to detect and correct 
cracking of the No. 2 flap beams, which could result in rupture of 
the flap beams and reduced structural integrity of the airplane.

(f) Compliance

    Comply with this AD within the compliance times specified, 
unless already done.

(g) Retained Inspection and Corrective Actions for Model A300 Series 
Airplanes, With Note 3 of AD 95-21-09 Incorporated and Additional 
Terminating Provisions

    This paragraph restates the requirements of paragraph (a) of AD 
95-21-09, with Note 3 of AD 95-21-09 incorporated and additional 
terminating provisions. For Model A300 series airplanes: Prior to 
the accumulation of 15,000 total landings, or within the next 120 
days after May 9, 1985 (the effective date of AD 85-07-04, Amendment 
39-5027 (50 FR 13013, April 2, 1985) (``AD 85-07-04'')), whichever 
occurs later, inspect for cracking of the base steel member and 
light alloy side members of the No. 2 flap beams, left hand and 
right hand, in accordance with the Accomplishment Instructions of 
Airbus Service Bulletin A300-57-116, Revision 6, dated July 16, 
1993. Accomplishing the requirements of paragraph (h) or (l) of this 
AD terminates the requirements of this paragraph. Measurement of 
crack length is performed by measurement of the probe displacement 
(perpendicular to symmetry plane of beam) between defect indication 
appearance and its complete disappearance. The bolt hole indication 
should not be interpreted as an indication of a defect. These two 
indications appear very close together because the defects originate 
from the bolt holes.

[[Page 71599]]

    (1) If no cracking is detected: Except as provided by paragraph 
(i) of this AD, repeat the inspection at intervals not to exceed 
1,700 landings until the requirements of paragraph (h) or (l) of 
this AD are accomplished.
    (2) If any crack is detected that is less than or equal to 4 
millimeters (mm): Repeat the inspection at intervals not to exceed 
250 landings, until the requirements of paragraph (h) or (l) of this 
AD are accomplished.
    (3) If any crack is detected that exceeds 4 mm: Prior to further 
flight, replace the flap beam in accordance with the Accomplishment 
Instructions of Airbus Service Bulletin A300-57-116, Revision 6, 
dated July 16, 1993, and prior to the accumulation of 15,000 flight 
cycles on the replaced flap beam, perform the ultrasonic inspection 
as required by paragraph (h) or (l) of this AD.

(h) Retained Ultrasonic Inspection and Corrective Action for Model A300 
Series Airplanes, With Additional Terminating Provisions

    This paragraph restates the requirements of paragraph (b) of AD 
95-21-09, with additional terminating provisions. For Model A300 
series airplanes: Prior to the accumulation of 15,000 total 
landings, or within the next 1,000 landings after November 17, 1995 
(the effective date of AD 95-21-09), whichever occurs later, perform 
an ultrasonic inspection to detect cracking of the No. 2 flap beams, 
in accordance with Airbus Service Bulletin A300-57-116, Revision 6, 
dated July 16, 1993. Accomplishment of this inspection terminates 
the inspections required by paragraph (g) of this AD. Accomplishment 
of the requirements of paragraph (l) of this AD terminates the 
requirements of this paragraph.
    (1) If no cracking is detected: Except as provided by paragraph 
(i) of this AD, repeat the ultrasonic inspections thereafter at 
intervals not to exceed 1,700 landings.
    (2) If any crack is detected beyond the bolt hole, and that 
crack is less than or equal to 4 mm in length: Repeat the ultrasonic 
inspections thereafter at intervals not to exceed 250 landings.
    (3) If any crack is detected beyond the bolt hole and that crack 
is greater than 4 mm in length: Prior to further flight, replace the 
flap beam in accordance with Airbus Service Bulletin A300-57-116, 
Revision 6, dated July 16, 1993; and prior to the accumulation of 
15,000 flight cycles on the replaced flap beam, perform the 
ultrasonic inspection as required by this paragraph.

(i) Retained Modification of the No. 2 Track Beam for Model A300 Series 
Airplanes, With Changes to Compliance Extension

    This paragraph restates the provisions of paragraph (c) of AD 
95-21-09, with changes to compliance extension. For Model A300 
series airplanes: After accomplishing the initial inspection 
required by paragraph (h) of this AD, accomplishment of either 
paragraph (i)(1) or (i)(2) of this AD before the effective date of 
this AD extends the fatigue life of the No. 2 flap track beam as 
specified in those paragraphs, provided that no cracking is detected 
during any inspection required by paragraph (g) or (h) of this AD.
    (1) Removal of any damage and the installation of larger 
diameter bolts on the No. 2 flap track beam (Modification No. 4740), 
in accordance with Airbus Service Bulletin A300-57-128, Revision 3, 
dated January 26, 1990, extends the interval for the first 
repetitive inspection required by paragraph (h) of this AD from 
1,700 landings to 12,000 landings, provided that Modification No. 
4740 is accomplished prior to the accumulation of 16,700 total 
landings on the flap beams. Following accomplishment of the first 
repetitive inspection, subsequent repetitive inspections shall be 
performed at intervals not to exceed 1,700 landings.
    (2) Cold working of the bolt holes and the installation of 
larger diameter bolts on the No. 2 flap track beam (Modification No. 
5815), in accordance with Airbus Service Bulletin A300-57-141, 
Revision 7, dated July 16, 1993, extends the interval for the first 
repetitive inspection required by paragraph (h) of this AD from 
1,700 landings to the interval specified in paragraph (i)(2)(i) or 
(i)(2)(ii) of this AD.
    (i) If interference fit bolts that are \15/32\-inch in diameter 
are fitted, the interval for the first repetitive inspection 
required by paragraph (h) of this AD is extended to 22,000 landings, 
provided that Modification No. 5815 is accomplished prior to the 
accumulation of 16,700 total landings on the flap beam. Following 
accomplishment of the first repetitive inspection required by 
paragraph (h) of this AD, subsequent repetitive inspections shall be 
performed at intervals not to exceed 1,700 landings.
    (ii) If interference fit bolts that are \7/16\- or \3/8\-inch in 
diameter are fitted, the interval for the first repetitive 
inspection required by paragraph (h) of this AD is extended to 
33,000 landings, provided that Modification No. 5815 is accomplished 
prior to the accumulation of 16,700 total landings on the flap beam. 
Following accomplishment of the first repetitive inspection required 
by paragraph (h) of this AD, subsequent repetitive inspections shall 
be performed at intervals not to exceed 1,700 landings.

(j) Retained Ultrasonic Inspection and Corrective Actions for Model 
A300-600 Series Airplanes, With Terminating Provisions

    This paragraph restates the requirements of paragraph (d) of AD 
95-21-09, with terminating provisions. For Model A300-600 series 
airplanes: Prior to the accumulation of 15,000 total landings, or 
within the next 1,000 landings after November 17, 1995 (the 
effective date of AD 95-21-09), whichever occurs later, perform an 
ultrasonic inspection to detect cracking of the No. 2 flap track 
beams, in accordance with Airbus Service Bulletin A300-57-6005, 
Revision 2, dated December 16, 1993. Accomplishing the actions 
required by paragraph (l) of this AD terminates the requirements of 
this paragraph.
    (1) If no cracking is detected, repeat the ultrasonic 
inspections thereafter at intervals not to exceed 1,700 landings.
    (2) If any crack is detected beyond the bolt hole and that crack 
is less than or equal to 4 mm in length: Repeat the ultrasonic 
inspections thereafter at intervals not to exceed 250 landings.
    (3) If any crack is detected beyond the bolt hole and that crack 
is greater than 4 mm in length: Prior to further flight, replace the 
flap beam in accordance with Airbus Service Bulletin A300-57-6005, 
Revision 2, dated December 16, 1993, and prior to the accumulation 
of 15,000 landings on the replaced flap beam, perform the ultrasonic 
inspection required by paragraph (j) of this AD.

(k) Retained Optional Action With Note 5 of AD 95-21-09 Incorporated 
and Changes To Terminating Action

    This paragraph restates the provisions of paragraph (e) of AD 
95-21-09, with Note 5 of AD 95-21-09 incorporated and changes to 
terminating action. For Model A300-600 series airplanes: 
Installation of oversized transition fit bolts in cold-worked holes, 
in accordance with Airbus Service Bulletin A300-57-6006, Revision 4, 
dated July 25, 1994 (Modification No. 5815), constitutes terminating 
action for the repetitive inspection requirements of paragraph (j) 
of this AD, provided that no cracking is detected during any 
inspection required by paragraph (j) of this AD, and provided that 
the installation is accomplished prior to the accumulation of 15,000 
total landings and before the effective date of this AD. If any bolt 
requires oversizing above \7/16\-inch diameter during accomplishment 
of this installation, prior to further flight, repair using a method 
approved by the Manager, Standardization Branch, ANM-113, FAA, 
Transport Airplane Directorate; or by the Manager, International 
Branch, ANM-116, Transport Airplane Directorate, FAA. As of the 
effective date of this AD, any new repair approval must be done 
using a method approved by the Manager, International Branch, ANM-
116, Transport Airplane Directorate, FAA. If Airbus Service Bulletin 
A300-57-6005, Revision 2, dated December 16, 1993, was accomplished 
concurrently with Airbus Service Bulletin A300-57-6006, Revision 3, 
dated December 16, 1993 (Modification No. 5815), the ultrasonic 
inspection for cracking required by paragraph (j) of this AD need 
not be performed since the eddy current inspection detailed for 
Modification No. 5815 is more comprehensive.

(l) New Requirement of This AD: Initial and Repetitive Ultrasonic 
Inspections

    At the applicable time specified in paragraph (l)(1) or (l)(2) 
of this AD and, thereafter at intervals not to exceed those defined 
in table 3 to paragraph (l) of this AD, as applicable, accomplish an 
ultrasonic inspection for cracking of the steel base member and the 
aluminum side members' flap beam on the left-hand (LH) and right-
hand (RH) sides, in accordance with the Accomplishment Instructions 
of Airbus Service Bulletin A300-57-0116, Revision 07, dated 
September 19, 2011, including Appendixes A and B; or Airbus Service 
Bulletin A300-57-6005, Revision 06, dated November 14, 2013; as 
applicable. For the purposes of this AD, average flight time

[[Page 71600]]

(AFT) must be established as specified in paragraph (m) of this AD. 
Doing the actions required by this paragraph terminates the 
requirements of paragraphs (g) through (k) of this AD.
    (1) For Model A300 B2-1A, B2-1C, B2K-3C, B2-203, B4-2C, B4-103, 
and B4-203 airplanes (referred to as Model A300 series airplanes): 
Within the applicable compliance time defined in table 1 to 
paragraph (l) of this AD.
    (2) For Model A300 B4-601, B4-603, B4-620, B4-622, B4-605R, B4-
622R, F4-605R, F4-622R airplanes, and Model A300 C4-605R Variant F 
airplanes (referred to as Model A300-600 series airplanes): At the 
later of the times specified in paragraphs (l)(2)(i) and (l)(2)(ii) 
of this AD.
    (i) Within the compliance time defined in table 2 to paragraph 
(l) of this AD.
    (ii) Within 300 flight cycles or 640 flight hours after the 
effective date of this AD, whichever occurs first.

  Table 1 to Paragraph (l) of This AD--Inspection Compliance Times for
                       Model A300 Series Airplanes
------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                    Compliance times for
                              Compliance times for    airplanes with an
   Airplane configuration       airplanes with an    AFT of more than or
                              AFT of less than 1.5      equal to 1.5
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Model A300 B2-1A, B2-1C, B2K- Within 15,000 flight  Within 15,000 flight
 3C, B2-203 airplanes on       cycles or 16,900      cycles or 16,900
 which Airbus Modifications    flight hours since    flight hours since
 4740 and 5815 have not been   first flight of the   first flight of the
 embodied.                     airplane, whichever   airplane, whichever
                               occurs first.         occurs first.
Model A300 B4-103 airplanes   Within 15,000 flight  Within 15,000 flight
 on which Airbus               cycles or 20,500      cycles or 20,500
 Modifications 4740 and 5815   flight hours since    flight hours since
 have not been embodied.       first flight of the   first flight of the
                               airplane, whichever   airplane, whichever
                               occurs first.         occurs first.
Model A300 B4-2C, and B4-203  Within 16,200 flight  Within 15,000 flight
 airplanes on which Airbus     cycles or 22,200      cycles or 34,000
 Modifications 4740 and 5815   flight hours since    flight hours since
 have not been embodied.       first flight of the   first flight of the
                               airplane, whichever   airplane, whichever
                               occurs first.         occurs first.
Model A300 B2-1A, B2-1C, B2K- Within 12,000 flight  Within 12,000 flight
 3C, B2-203 airplanes on       cycles or 13,500      cycles or 13,500
 which Airbus Modification     flight hours since    flight hours since
 4740 has been embodied.       embodiment of         embodiment of
                               Airbus Modification   Airbus Modification
                               4740, whichever       4740, whichever
                               occurs first.         occurs first.
Model A300 B4-103 airplanes   Within 12,000 flight  Within 12,000 flight
 on which Airbus               cycles or 16,400      cycles or 16,400
 Modification 4740 has been    flight hours since    flight hours since
 embodied.                     embodiment of         embodiment of
                               Airbus Modification   Airbus Modification
                               4740, whichever       4740, whichever
                               occurs first.         occurs first.
Model A300 B4-2C, and B4-203  Within 12,900 flight  Within 12,000 flight
 airplanes on which Airbus     cycles or 17,700      cycles or 27,200
 Modification 4740 has been    flight hours since    flight hours since
 embodied.                     embodiment of         embodiment of
                               Airbus Modification   Airbus Modification
                               4740, whichever       4740, whichever
                               occurs first.         occurs first.
Model A300 B2-1A, B2-1C, B2K- Within 33,000 flight  Within 33,000 flight
 3C, B2-203 airplanes on       cycles or 37,200      cycles or 37,200
 which Airbus Modification     flight hours since    flight hours since
 5815 has been embodied and    embodiment of         embodiment of
 no bolt larger than \7/16\-   Airbus Modification   Airbus Modification
 inch diameter is fitted.      5815, whichever       5815, whichever
                               occurs first.         occurs first.
Model A300 B4-103 airplanes   Within 33,000 flight  Within 33,000 flight
 on which Airbus               cycles or 45,200      cycles or 45,200
 Modification 5815 has been    flight hours since    flight hours since
 embodied and no bolt larger   embodiment of         embodiment of
 than \7/16\-inch diameter     Airbus Modification   Airbus Modification
 is fitted.                    5815, whichever       5815, whichever
                               occurs first.         occurs first.
Model A300 B4-2C, and B4-203  Within 35,600 flight  Within 33,000 flight
 airplanes on which Airbus     cycles or 48,800      cycles or 74,900
 Modification 5815 has been    flight hours since    flight hours since
 embodied and no bolt larger   embodiment of         embodiment of
 than \7/16\-inch diameter     Airbus Modification   Airbus Modification
 is fitted.                    5815, whichever       5815, whichever
                               occurs first.         occurs first.
Model A300 B2-1A, B2-1C, B2K- Within 22,000 flight  Within 22,000 flight
 3C, B2-203 airplanes on       cycles or 24,800      cycles or 24,800
 which Airbus Modification     flight hours since    flight hours since
 5815 has been embodied and    embodiment of         embodiment of
 at least one bolt with a      Airbus Modification   Airbus Modification
 \15/32\-inch diameter is      5815, whichever       5815, whichever
 fitted.                       occurs first.         occurs first.
Model A300 B4-103 airplanes   Within 22,000 flight  Within 22,000 flight
 on which Airbus               cycles or 30,100      cycles or 30,100
 Modification 5815 has been    flight hours since    flight hours since
 embodied and at least one     embodiment of         embodiment of
 bolt with a \15/32\-inch      Airbus Modification   Airbus Modification
 diameter is fitted.           5815, whichever       5815, whichever
                               occurs first.         occurs first.
Model A300 B4-2C, and B4-     Within 23,700 flight  Within 22,000 flight
 203, airplanes on which       cycles or 32,500      cycles or 49,900
 Airbus Modification 5815      flight hours since    flight hours since
 has been embodied and at      embodiment of         embodiment of
 least one bolt with a \15/    Airbus Modification   Airbus Modification
 32\-inch diameter is fitted.  5815, whichever       5815, whichever
                               occurs first.         occurs first.
------------------------------------------------------------------------

Table 2 to Paragraph (1) of This AD--Compliance Times for Model A300-600
                            Series Airplanes
------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                    Compliance times for
                              Compliance times for    airplanes with an
   Airplane configuration       airplanes with an    AFT of more than or
                              AFT of less than 1.5      equal to 1.5
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Model A300-600 series         Within 16,200 flight  Within 15,000 flight
 airplanes on which Airbus     cycles or 24,300      cycles or 32,400
 Modification 5815 and         flight hours since    flight hours since
 Airbus Modification 11133     first flight of the   first flight of the
 have not been embodied.       airplane, whichever   airplane, whichever
                               occurs first.         occurs first.
Model A300-600 series         Within 35,600 flight  Within 33,000 flight
 airplanes on which Airbus     cycles or 53,400      cycles or 71,200
 Modification 5815 has been    flight hours since    flight hours since
 embodied and no bolt larger   embodiment of         embodiment of
 than \7/16\-inch diameter     Airbus Modification   Airbus Modification
 is fitted.                    5815, whichever       5815, whichever
                               occurs first.         occurs first.
Model A300-600 series         Within 23,700 flight  Within 22,000 flight
 airplanes on which Airbus     cycles or 35,600      cycles or 47,500
 Modification 5815 has been    flight hours since    flight hours since
 embodied and at least one     embodiment of         embodiment of
 bolt \15/32\-inch diameter    Airbus Modification   Airbus Modification
 is fitted.                    5815, whichever       5815, whichever
                               occurs first.         occurs first.

[[Page 71601]]

 
Model A300-600 series         Within 35,600 flight  Within 33,000 flight
 airplanes on which Airbus     cycles or 53,400      cycles or 71,200
 Modification 11133 has been   flight hours since    flight hours since
 embodied.                     first flight,         first flight,
                               whichever occurs      whichever occurs
                               first.                first.
------------------------------------------------------------------------

  Table 3 to Paragraph (1) of This AD--Repetitive Inspection Intervals
------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                     Repetitive interval
                               Repetitive interval   (not to exceed) for
       Airplane models         (not to exceed) for    airplanes with an
                                airplanes with an   AFT equal to or more
                              AFT of less than 1.5        than 1.5
------------------------------------------------------------------------
A300 B2-1A, B2-1C, B2K-3C,    1,500 flight cycles   1,500 flight cycles
 B2-203.                       or 1,600 flight       or 1,600 flight
                               hours, whichever      hours, whichever
                               occurs first.         occurs first.
A300 B4-103 airplanes.......  1,500 flight cycles   1,500 flight cycles
                               or 2,000 flight       or 2,000 flight
                               hours, whichever      hours, whichever
                               occurs first.         occurs first.
A300 B4-2C, and B4-203......  1,600 flight cycles   1,500 flight cycles
                               or 2,200 flight       or 3,400 flight
                               hours, whichever      hours, whichever
                               occurs first.         occurs first.
A300-600 series airplanes...  1,600 flight cycles   1,500 flight cycles
                               or 2,400 flight       or 3,200 flight
                               hours, whichever      hours, whichever
                               occurs first.         occurs first.
------------------------------------------------------------------------

(m) Calculating the AFT

    For the purpose of this AD, the AFT must be established as 
specified in paragraphs (m)(1), (m)(2), and (m)(3) of this AD.
    (1) For the initial inspection, the average flight time is the 
total accumulated flight hours, counted from take-off to touch-down, 
divided by the total accumulated flight cycles at the effective date 
of this AD.
    (2) For the first repeated inspection interval, the average 
flight time is the total accumulated flight hours divided by the 
total accumulated flight cycles at the time of the inspection 
threshold.
    (3) For all inspection intervals onward, the average flight time 
is the flight hours divided by the flight cycles accumulated between 
the last two inspections.

(n) New Requirement of This AD: Corrective Action

    If any crack is found during any inspection required by 
paragraph (l) of this AD: Before further flight, replace the flap 
beam using a method approved by the Manager, International Branch, 
ANM-116, Transport Airplane Directorate, FAA; or the European 
Aviation Safety Agency (EASA); or Airbus's EASA Design Organization 
Approval (DOA). Replacement of the flap beam does not constitute 
terminating action for the inspections required by paragraph (l) of 
this AD.

(o) Credit for Previous Actions

    (1) This paragraph provides credit for inspections required by 
paragraph (g) of this AD, if those inspections were performed before 
November 17, 1995 (the effective date of AD 95-21-09) using Airbus 
Service Bulletin A300-57-116, Revision 1, dated August 27, 1983; 
Revision 2, dated April 24, 1984; Revision 3, dated July 20, 1984; 
Revision 4, dated August 13, 1986; or Revision 5, dated July 10, 
1989; as applicable.
    (2) This paragraph provides credit for actions required by 
paragraph (l) of this AD, if those actions were performed before the 
effective date of this AD using the applicable service information 
identified in paragraphs (o)(2)(i) through (o)(2)(x) of this AD.
    (i) Airbus Service Bulletin A300-57-6005, Revision 2, dated 
December 16, 1993, which was previously incorporated by reference on 
November 17, 1995 (60 FR 53847, October 18, 1995).
    (ii) Airbus Service Bulletin A300-57-6005, Revision 03, dated 
November 25, 1997.
    (iii) Airbus Service Bulletin A300-57-6005, Revision 04, dated 
October 25, 1999.
    (iv) Airbus Service Bulletin A300-57-6005, Revision 05, dated 
April 25, 2013.
    (v) Airbus Service Bulletin A300-57-116, Revision 1, dated 
August 27, 1983.
    (vi) Airbus Service Bulletin A300-57-116, Revision 2, dated 
April 24, 1984.
    (vii) Airbus Service Bulletin A300-57-116, Revision 3, dated 
July 20, 1984.
    (viii) Airbus Service Bulletin A300-57-116, Revision 4, dated 
August 13, 1986.
    (ix) Airbus Service Bulletin A300-57-116, Revision 5, dated July 
10, 1989.
    (x) Airbus Service Bulletin A300-57-116, Revision 6, dated July 
16, 1993, which was previously incorporated by reference on November 
17, 1995 (60 FR 53847, October 18, 1995).

(p) Other FAA AD Provisions

    The following provisions also apply to this AD:
    (1) Alternative Methods of Compliance (AMOCs): The Manager, 
International Branch, ANM-116, 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: Dan Rodina, 
Aerospace Engineer, International Branch, ANM-116, Transport 
Airplane Directorate, FAA, 1601 Lind Avenue SW., Renton, WA 98057-
3356; telephone 425-227-2125; fax 425-227-1149. Information may be 
emailed to: 9-ANM-116-AMOC-REQUESTS@faa.gov.
    (i) 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.
    (ii) AMOCs approved previously for AD 95-21-09, are approved as 
AMOCs for the corresponding provisions of paragraphs (g) through (j) 
of this AD.
    (2) Contacting the Manufacturer: As of the effective date of 
this AD, for any requirement in this AD to obtain corrective actions 
from a manufacturer, the action must be accomplished using a method 
approved by the Manager, International Branch, ANM-116, Transport 
Airplane Directorate, FAA; or EASA; or Airbus's EASA DOA. If 
approved by the DOA, the approval must include the DOA-authorized 
signature.
    (3) Required for Compliance (RC): Except as required by 
paragraph (n) of this AD: If any service information contains 
procedures or tests that are identified as RC, those 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.

(q) Related Information

    (1) Refer to Mandatory Continuing Airworthiness Information 
(MCAI) EASA AD 2013-0234R2, dated October 7, 2013, for related 
information. This MCAI may be found in the AD docket on the Internet 
at http://www.regulations.gov by searching for and locating Docket 
No. FAA-2015-8470.
    (2) Service information identified in this AD that is not 
incorporated by reference is available at the addresses specified in 
paragraphs (r)(5) and (r)(6) of this AD.

[[Page 71602]]

(r) 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.
    (3) The following service information was approved for IBR on 
November 22, 2016.
    (i) Airbus Service Bulletin A300-57-0116, Revision 07, dated 
September 19, 2011, including Appendixes A and B. Only the first 
page of Appendixes A and B of this document are identified as 
appendixes.
    (ii) Airbus Service Bulletin A300-57-6005, Revision 06, dated 
November 14, 2013.
    (4) The following service information was approved for IBR on 
November 17, 1995 (60 FR 53847, October 18, 1995).
    (i) Airbus Service Bulletin A300-57-116, Revision 6, dated July 
16, 1993, which contains the following effective pages: Pages 1 
through 11 of this document are identified as Revision 6, dated July 
16, 1993.
    (ii) Airbus Service Bulletin A300-57-128, Revision 3, dated 
January 26, 1990, which contains the following effective pages: Page 
1 is identified as Revision 3, dated January 26, 1990; pages 2 
through 5 are identified as Revision 1, dated February 7, 1986; and 
pages 6 through 14 are identified as the original issue, dated 
August 27, 1983.
    (iii) Airbus Service Bulletin A300-57-141, Revision 7, dated 
July 16, 1993, which contains the following effective pages: Pages 1 
through 24 of this document are identified as Revision 7, dated July 
16, 1993.
    (iv) Airbus Service Bulletin A300-57-6005, Revision 2, dated 
December 16, 1993, which contains the following effective pages: 
Pages 1 through 4 are identified as Revision 2, dated December 16, 
1993; pages 5 through 7 and 9 are identified as Revision 1, dated 
February 26, 1993; and page 8 is identified as the original issue, 
dated August 13, 1986.
    (v) Airbus Service Bulletin A300-57-6006, Revision 4, dated July 
25, 1994, which contains the following effective pages: Pages 1, 2, 
5, and 7 are identified as Revision 4, dated July 25, 1994; and 
pages 3, 4, 6, and 8 through 20 are identified as Revision 3, dated 
December 16, 1993.
    (5) For service information identified in this AD, contact 
Airbus SAS, Airworthiness Office--EAW, 1 Rond Point Maurice 
Bellonte, 31707 Blagnac Cedex, France; telephone +33 5 61 93 36 96; 
fax +33 5 61 93 44 51; email account.airworth-eas@airbus.com; 
Internet http://www.airbus.com.
    (6) You may view this 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.
    (7) You may view this 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/cfr/ibr-locations.html.

    Issued in Renton, Washington, on September 19, 2016.
Dionne Palermo,
Acting Manager, Transport Airplane Directorate, Aircraft Certification 
Service.
[FR Doc. 2016-23261 Filed 10-17-16; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE 4910-13-P