Document ID: FAA-2023-1645-0001
Agency: faa
Document Type: Proposed Rule
Title: Airworthiness Directives: Airbus SAS Airplanes
Posted Date: 2023-08-01T04:00Z

[Federal Register Volume 88, Number 146 (Tuesday, August 1, 2023)]
[Proposed Rules]
[Pages 50067-50076]
From the Federal Register Online via the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]
[FR Doc No: 2023-16189]

 ========================================================================
 Proposed Rules
                                                 Federal Register
 ________________________________________________________________________
 
 This section of the FEDERAL REGISTER contains notices to the public of 
 the proposed issuance of rules and regulations. The purpose of these 
 notices is to give interested persons an opportunity to participate in 
 the rule making prior to the adoption of the final rules.
 
 ========================================================================
 

  Federal Register / Vol. 88, No. 146 / Tuesday, August 1, 2023 / 
Proposed Rules  

[[Page 50067]]

DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION

Federal Aviation Administration

14 CFR Part 39

[Docket No. FAA-2023-1645; Project Identifier MCAI-2022-01296-T]
RIN 2120-AA64

Airworthiness Directives; Airbus SAS Airplanes

AGENCY: Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), DOT.

ACTION: Notice of proposed rulemaking (NPRM).

-----------------------------------------------------------------------

SUMMARY: The FAA proposes to supersede Airworthiness Directive (AD) 
2019-12-07, which applies to all Airbus SAS Model A318-111, -112, -121, 
and -122 airplanes; Model A319-111, -112, -113, -114, -115, -131, -132, 
and -133 airplanes; Model A320-211, -212, -214, -216, -231, -232, and -
233 airplanes; and Model A321-111, -112, -131, -211, -212, -213, -231, 
and -232 airplanes. AD 2019-12-07 requires replacement of both main 
landing gear (MLG) shock absorbers, an identification of affected MLG 
sliding tubes; inspection of affected chromium plates and sliding tube 
axles for damage; and replacement of the sliding tube if necessary. AD 
2019-12-07 also requires repetitive inspections of affected MLG sliding 
tubes for cracking, replacement of cracked MLG sliding tubes, and 
eventual replacement of each affected MLG sliding tube. Since the FAA 
issued AD 2019-12-07, the FAA has determined that additional MLG 
sliding tubes are affected by the unsafe condition and that the 
repetitive inspection interval may be extended. This proposed AD would 
continue to require the actions specified in AD 2019-12-07 and would 
require repetitive inspections of additional MLG sliding tubes, 
replacement if necessary, and eventual replacement of the additional 
MLG sliding tubes. This proposed AD would also extend the repetitive 
inspection interval. This proposed AD would also prohibit the 
installation of affected parts under certain conditions. The FAA is 
proposing this AD to address the unsafe condition on these products.

DATES: The FAA must receive comments on this proposed AD by September 
15, 2023.

ADDRESSES: You may send comments, using the procedures found in 14 CFR 
11.43 and 11.45, by any of the following methods:
     Federal eRulemaking Portal: Go to 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: Deliver to Mail address above between 9 
a.m. and 5 p.m., Monday through Friday, except Federal holidays.
    AD Docket: You may examine the AD docket at regulations.gov under 
Docket No. FAA-2023-1645; or in person at Docket Operations between 9 
a.m. and 5 p.m., Monday through Friday, except Federal holidays. The AD 
docket contains this NPRM, the mandatory continuing airworthiness 
information (MCAI), any comments received, and other information. The 
street address for Docket Operations is listed above.
    Material Incorporated by Reference:
     For Airbus service information identified in this NPRM, 
contact Airbus SAS, Airworthiness Office--EIAS, Rond-Point Emile 
Dewoitine No: 2, 31700 Blagnac Cedex, France; telephone +33 5 61 93 36 
96; fax +33 5 61 93 44 51; email airbus.com">[email protected]airbus.com; 
website airbus.com.
     For Safran and Messier-Dowty service information 
identified in this NPRM, contact Safran Landing Systems, One Carbon 
Way, Walton, KY 41094; telephone 859-525-8583; fax 859-485-8827; 
website www.safran-landing-systems.com.
     You may view this service information at the FAA, 
Airworthiness Products Section, Operational Safety Branch, 2200 South 
216th St., Des Moines, WA. For information on the availability of this 
material at the FAA, call 206-231-3195.

FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Timothy Dowling, Aviation Safety 
Engineer, FAA, 1600 Stewart Avenue, Suite 410, Westbury, NY 11590; 
phone: 206-231-3667; email: [email protected].

SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION:

Comments Invited

    The FAA invites you to send any written relevant data, views, or 
arguments about this proposal. Send your comments to an address listed 
under ADDRESSES. Include ``Docket No. FAA-2023-1645; Project Identifier 
MCAI-2022-01296-T'' at the beginning of your comments. The most helpful 
comments reference a specific portion of the proposal, explain the 
reason for any recommended change, and include supporting data. The FAA 
will consider all comments received by the closing date and may amend 
the proposal because of those comments.
    Except for Confidential Business Information (CBI) as described in 
the following paragraph, and other information as described in 14 CFR 
11.35, the FAA will post all comments received, without change, to 
regulations.gov, including any personal information you provide. The 
agency will also post a report summarizing each substantive verbal 
contact received about this NPRM.

Confidential Business Information

    CBI is commercial or financial information that is both customarily 
and actually treated as private by its owner. Under the Freedom of 
Information Act (FOIA) (5 U.S.C. 552), CBI is exempt from public 
disclosure. If your comments responsive to this NPRM contain commercial 
or financial information that is customarily treated as private, that 
you actually treat as private, and that is relevant or responsive to 
this NPRM, it is important that you clearly designate the submitted 
comments as CBI. Please mark each page of your submission containing 
CBI as ``PROPIN.'' The FAA will treat such marked submissions as 
confidential under the FOIA, and they will not be placed in the public 
docket of this NPRM. Submissions containing CBI should be sent to 
Timothy Dowling, Aviation Safety Engineer, FAA, 1600 Stewart Avenue, 
Suite 410, Westbury, NY 11590; phone: 206-231-3667; email: 
[email protected]. Any commentary that the FAA receives which 
is not specifically designated as

[[Page 50068]]

CBI will be placed in the public docket for this rulemaking.

Background

    The FAA issued AD 2019-12-07, Amendment 39-19662 (84 FR 30579, June 
27, 2019) (AD 2019-12-07), for all Airbus SAS Model A318-111, -112, -
121, and -122 airplanes; Model A319-111, -112, -113, -114, -115, -131, 
-132, and -133 airplanes; Model A320-211, -212, -214, -216, -231, -232, 
and -233 airplanes; and Model A321-111, -112, -131, -211, -212, -213, -
231, and -232 airplanes. AD 2019-12-07 was prompted by an MCAI 
originated by the European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA), which 
is the Technical Agent for the Member States of the European Union. 
EASA issued AD 2018-0135, dated June 26, 2018 (EASA AD 2018-0135), to 
correct an unsafe condition.
    AD 2019-12-07 requires replacement of both MLG shock absorbers, an 
identification of the part number and serial number of the MLG sliding 
tubes, inspection of affected chromium plates and sliding tube axles 
for damage, and replacement of the sliding tube if necessary. AD 2019-
12-07 also requires repetitive inspections of affected MLG sliding 
tubes for cracking, replacement of cracked MLG sliding tubes, and 
eventual replacement of each affected MLG sliding tube. The FAA issued 
AD 2019-12-07 to address cracking in an MLG sliding tube, which could 
lead to failure of an MLG sliding tube resulting in MLG collapse, 
damage to the airplane, and injury to passengers.

Actions Since AD 2019-12-07 Was Issued

    Since the FAA issued AD 2019-12-07, EASA superseded EASA AD 2018-
0135 and issued EASA AD 2022-0204R1, dated February 15, 2023; corrected 
February 17, 2023; (referred to after this as the MCAI) to correct an 
unsafe condition on all Airbus SAS Model A318-111, -112, -121, and -122 
airplanes; Model A319-111, -112, -113, -114, -115, -131, -132, and -133 
airplanes; Model A320-211, -212, -214, -215, -216, -231, -232, and -233 
airplanes; and Model A321-111, -112, -131, -211, -212, -213, -231, and 
-232 airplanes. Model A320-215 airplanes are not certificated by the 
FAA and are not included on the U.S. type certificate data sheet; this 
proposed AD therefore does not include those airplanes in the 
applicability The MCAI states that since EASA AD 2018-0135 was issued, 
two additional cases have been reported of cracking at the same 
location of MLG sliding tubes not affected by the inspection 
requirements and that service information was issued to include 
additional actions for the newly affected MLG sliding tubes. In 
addition, further investigation determined the repetitive inspection 
interval may be extended from 5,000 flight cycles to 10,000 flight 
cycles.
    The FAA has determined that additional MLG sliding tubes are 
affected by the unsafe condition and that the repetitive inspection 
interval may be extended. The FAA is proposing this AD to address 
cracking in an MLG sliding tube, which could lead to failure of an MLG 
sliding tube resulting in MLG collapse, damage to the airplane, and 
injury to passengers.
    You may examine the MCAI in the AD docket at regulations.gov under 
Docket No. FAA-2023-1645.

Related Service Information Under 1 CFR Part 51

    The FAA reviewed Airbus Service Bulletin A320-32-1441, Revision 02, 
dated August 23, 2022. This service information specifies procedures 
for inspections of the MLG sliding tubes for cracking and corrective 
actions (which includes replacing the MLG sliding tubes).
    The FAA also reviewed Safran Service Bulletin 200-32-321, Revision 
4, dated November 3, 2021; and Safran Service Bulletin 201-32-68, 
Revision 4, dated November 3, 2021. These documents specify the part 
numbers and serial numbers of the affected MLG sliding tubes. These 
documents are distinct since they apply to different airplane models.
    This proposed AD would also require the following service 
information, which the Director of the Federal Register approved for 
incorporation by reference as of August 1, 2019 (84 FR 30579, June 27, 
2019).
     Airbus Service Bulletin A320-32-1441, Revision 01, dated 
December 14, 2017.
     Messier-Dowty Service Bulletin 200-32-286, Revision 3, 
dated October 3, 2008.
     Messier-Dowty Service Bulletin 201-32-43, Revision 3, 
dated October 3, 2008.
     Safran Service Bulletin 200-32-321, Revision 2, dated 
October 3, 2017.
     Safran Service Bulletin 201-32-68, Revision 2, dated 
October 3, 2017.
    This proposed AD would also require Airbus Service Bulletin A320-
32-1416, including Appendix 01, dated March 10, 2014, which the 
Director of the Federal Register approved for incorporation by 
reference as of February 22, 2017 (82 FR 5362, January 18, 2017).
    This proposed AD would also require Airbus Service Bulletin A320-
32A1273, Revision 02, including Appendix 01, dated May 26, 2005, which 
the Director of the Federal Register approved for incorporation by 
reference as of June 29, 2007 (72 FR 29241, May 25, 2007).
    This proposed AD would also require Airbus All Operators Telex 
A320-32A1273, Revision 01, dated May 6, 2004, which the Director of the 
Federal Register approved for incorporation by reference as of June 23, 
2004 (69 FR 31867, June 8, 2004).
    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.

FAA's Determination

    This product has been approved by the aviation authority of another 
country, and is approved for operation in the United States. Pursuant 
to the FAA's bilateral agreement with this State of Design Authority, 
it has notified the FAA of the unsafe condition described in the MCAI 
and service information referenced above. The FAA is issuing this NPRM 
after determining that unsafe condition described previously is likely 
to exist or develop on other products of the same type design.

Proposed AD Requirements in This NPRM

    This proposed AD would retain all of the requirements of AD 2019-
12-07, except the repetitive inspection interval is extended. This 
proposed AD would also require repetitive inspections of additional MLG 
sliding tubes, replacement if necessary, and eventual replacement of 
the additional MLG sliding tubes. This proposed AD would also prohibit 
the installation of affected parts under certain conditions.

Costs of Compliance

    The FAA estimates that this AD, if adopted as proposed, would 
affect 1,525 airplanes of U.S. registry.
    The FAA estimates the following costs to comply with this proposed 
AD:

[[Page 50069]]

                                                          Estimated Costs for Required Actions
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
               Action                      Labor cost                Parts cost                 Cost per product             Cost on U.S. operators
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Retained actions from paragraph (g)  8 work-hours x $85     Up to $45,310...............  Up to $45,990...............  Up to $13,659,030.*
 of AD 2019-12-07 (297 airplanes *).  per hour = $680.
Retained actions from paragraphs     18 work-hours x $85    $0..........................  $1,530......................  $2,333,250.
 (h) and (j) of AD 2019-12-07.        per hour = $1,530.
Retained actions from paragraphs     13 work-hours x $85    Up to $3,920................  Up to $5,025................  Up to $7,663,125.
 (o), (p), and (q) of AD 2019-12-07.  per hour = $1,105.
New proposed actions (in paragraphs  9 work-hours x $85     Up to $3,920................  Up to $4,685................  Up to $7,144,625.
 (o), (p), and (q) of this proposed   per hour = $765.
 AD).
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
* Operators should note that, although all U.S.-registered airplanes are subject to the retained requirements of paragraph (g) of this proposed AD,
  there are only 297 possible affected MLG sliding tubes in the worldwide fleet. The FAA has no way of knowing how many affected MLG sliding tubes, if
  any, are installed in U.S.-registered airplanes.

    The FAA estimates the following costs to do any necessary on-
condition actions that would be required based on the results of any 
required actions. The FAA has no way of determining the number of 
aircraft that might need these on-condition actions:

                 Estimated Costs of On-Condition Actions
------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                             Cost per
              Labor cost                   Parts cost        product
------------------------------------------------------------------------
7 work-hours x $85 per hour = $595....          $1,960           $2,555
------------------------------------------------------------------------

Authority for This Rulemaking

    Title 49 of the United States Code specifies the FAA's authority to 
issue rules on aviation safety. Subtitle I, section 106, describes the 
authority of the FAA Administrator. Subtitle VII: Aviation Programs, 
describes in more detail the scope of the Agency's authority.
    The FAA is issuing this rulemaking under the authority described in 
Subtitle VII, Part A, Subpart III, Section 44701: General requirements. 
Under that section, Congress charges the FAA with promoting safe flight 
of civil aircraft in air commerce by prescribing regulations for 
practices, methods, and procedures the Administrator finds necessary 
for safety in air commerce. This regulation is within the scope of that 
authority because it addresses an unsafe condition that is likely to 
exist or develop on products identified in this rulemaking action.

Regulatory Findings

    The FAA has 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) Will not affect intrastate aviation in Alaska, and
    (3) 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.

The Proposed Amendment

    Accordingly, under the authority delegated to me by the 
Administrator, the FAA proposes to amend 14 CFR part 39 as follows:

PART 39--AIRWORTHINESS DIRECTIVES

0
1. The authority citation for part 39 continues to read as follows:

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

Sec.  39.13  [Amended]

0
2. The FAA amends Sec.  39.13 by:
0
a. Removing Airworthiness Directive (AD) 2019-12-07, Amendment 39-19662 
(84 FR 30579, June 27, 2019); and
0
b. Adding the following new AD:

Airbus SAS: Docket No. FAA-2023-1645; Project Identifier MCAI-2022-
01296-T.

(a) Comments Due Date

    The FAA must receive comments on this airworthiness directive 
(AD) by September 15, 2023.

(b) Affected ADs

    This AD replaces AD 2019-12-07, Amendment 39-19662 (84 FR 30579, 
June 27, 2019) (AD 2019-12-07).

(c) Applicability

    This AD applies to Airbus SAS airplanes identified in paragraphs 
(c)(1) through (4) of this AD, certificated in any category, all 
manufacturer serial numbers (MSNs).
    (1) Model A318-111, -112, -121, and -122 airplanes.
    (2) Model A319-111, -112, -113, -114, -115, -131, -132, and -133 
airplanes.
    (3) Model A320-211, -212, -214, -216, -231, -232, and -233 
airplanes.
    (4) Model A321-111, -112, -131, -211, -212, -213, -231, and -232 
airplanes.

(d) Subject

    Air Transport Association (ATA) of America Code 32, Landing 
gear.

(e) Reason

    This AD was prompted by a determination that cracks were found 
in the main landing gear (MLG) sliding tubes due to certain 
manufacturing defects that might not be identified using the current 
on-wing scheduled inspections. In addition, since AD 2019-12-07 was 
issued, the FAA has determined that additional MLG sliding tubes are 
affected by the unsafe condition. The FAA is issuing this AD to 
address cracking in an MLG sliding tube, which could lead to failure 
of an MLG sliding tube resulting in MLG collapse, damage to the 
airplane, and injury to passengers.

(f) Compliance

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

[[Page 50070]]

(g) Retained Replacement, With No Changes

    This paragraph restates the requirements of paragraph (g) of AD 
2019-12-07, with no changes. Within 41 months after June 29, 2007 
(the effective date of AD 2007-11-11, Amendment 39-15068 (72 FR 
29241, May 25, 2007) (AD 2007-11-11)), replace all MLG shock 
absorbers equipped with MLG sliding tubes having serial numbers 
listed in Airbus All Operators Telex (AOT) A320-32A1273, Revision 
01, dated May 6, 2004; or the Accomplishment Instructions of Airbus 
Service Bulletin A320-32A1273, Revision 02, including Appendix 01, 
dated May 26, 2005; with new or serviceable MLG shock absorbers 
equipped with MLG sliding tubes having serial numbers not listed in 
Airbus AOT A320-32A1273, Revision 01, dated May 6, 2004; or the 
Accomplishment Instructions of Airbus Service Bulletin A320-32A1273, 
Revision 02, including Appendix 01, dated May 26, 2005; using a 
method approved by the Manager, International Section, Transport 
Standards Branch, FAA; or the European Aviation Safety Agency 
(EASA); or Airbus SAS's EASA Design Organization Approval (DOA). If 
approved by the DOA, the approval must include the DOA-authorized 
signature. As of June 29, 2007, only Airbus Service Bulletin A320-
32A1273, Revision 02, including Appendix 01, dated May 26, 2005, may 
be used to determine the affected MLG sliding tubes.
    Note 1 to paragraph (g): Guidance on the replacement specified 
in paragraph (g) of this AD can be found in Airbus A318/A319/A320/
A321 Aircraft Maintenance Manual Chapter 32-11-13, page block 401.

(h) Retained MLG Sliding Tube Part Number and Serial Number 
Identification, With No Changes

    This paragraph restates the requirements of paragraph (h) of AD 
2019-12-07, with no changes. Within three months after February 22, 
2017 (the effective date of AD 2017-01-11, Amendment 39-18778 (82 FR 
5362, January 18, 2017) (AD 2017-01-11)): Do an inspection to 
identify the part number and serial number of the MLG sliding tubes 
installed on the airplane. A review of airplane maintenance records 
is acceptable in lieu of this inspection if the part number and 
serial number of the MLG sliding tubes can be conclusively 
determined from that review.

(i) Retained Identification of Airplanes, With an Updated Reference

    This paragraph restates the requirements of paragraph (i) of AD 
2019-12-07, with an updated reference. An airplane with a MSN not 
listed in figure 1 to paragraph (i) of this AD is not affected by 
the requirements of paragraph (j) of this AD, provided it can be 
determined that no MLG sliding tube having a part number and serial 
number listed in figure 2 to paragraph (i) of this AD has been 
installed on that airplane since first flight of the airplane.
BILLING CODE 4910-13-P

Figure 1 to Paragraph (i)--Affected Airplanes Listed by MSN
[GRAPHIC] [TIFF OMITTED] TP01AU23.041

[[Page 50071]]

Figure 2 to Paragraph (i)--Affected MLG Sliding Tubes
[GRAPHIC] [TIFF OMITTED] TP01AU23.042

[[Page 50072]]

[GRAPHIC] [TIFF OMITTED] TP01AU23.043

BILLING CODE 4910-13-C

[[Page 50073]]

(j) Retained Inspections, With an Updated Reference

    This paragraph restates the inspections required by paragraph 
(j) of AD 2019-12-07, with an updated reference. For each MLG 
sliding tube identified as required by paragraph (h) of this AD, 
having a part number and serial number listed in figure 2 to 
paragraph (i) of this AD: Within 3 months after February 22, 2017 
(the effective date of AD 2017-01-11) inspect affected MLG axles and 
brake flanges by doing a detailed visual inspection of the chromium 
plates for damage, and a Barkhausen noise inspection of the MLG 
sliding tube axles for damage, in accordance with the Accomplishment 
Instructions of Airbus Service Bulletin A320-32-1416, including 
Appendix 01, dated March 10, 2014. For Model A318 series airplanes, 
use the procedures specified for Model A319 series airplanes in 
Airbus Service Bulletin A320-32-1416, including Appendix 01, dated 
March 10, 2014.

(k) Retained Corrective Action for Paragraph (j) of This AD, With No 
Changes

    This paragraph restates the requirements of paragraph (k) of 
2019-12-07, with no changes. If, during any inspection required by 
paragraph (j) of this AD, any damage is detected: Before further 
flight, replace the MLG sliding tube with a serviceable MLG sliding 
tube, in accordance with the Accomplishment Instructions of Airbus 
Service Bulletin A320-32-1416, including Appendix 01, dated March 
10, 2014. For Model A318 series airplanes, use the procedures 
specified for Model A319 series airplanes in Airbus Service Bulletin 
A320-32-1416, including Appendix 01, dated March 10, 2014.

(l) Retained Definition for Serviceable MLG Sliding Tube, With Updated 
References

    This paragraph restates the definition for serviceable MLG 
sliding tube specified in paragraph (l) of AD 2019-12-07, with 
updated references. For the purpose of paragraph (k) of this AD, a 
serviceable MLG sliding tube is defined as an MLG sliding tube that 
meets the criterion in either paragraph (l)(1) or (2) of this AD.
    (1) An MLG sliding tube having a part number and serial number 
not listed in figure 2 to paragraph (i) of this AD.
    (2) An MLG sliding tube having a part number and serial number 
listed in figure 2 to paragraph (i) of this AD that has passed the 
inspections required by paragraph (j) of this AD.

(m) Retained Parts Installation Prohibition, With Updated References

    This paragraph restates the parts installation prohibition 
specified in paragraph (m) of AD 2019-12-07, with updated 
references.
    (1) For airplanes that have an MLG sliding tube installed that 
has a part number and serial number listed in figure 2 to paragraph 
(i) of this AD: After an airplane is returned to service following 
accomplishment of the actions required by paragraphs (h), (i), and 
(j) of this AD, no person may install on any airplane an MLG sliding 
tube having a part number and serial number listed in figure 2 to 
paragraph (i) of this AD, unless that MLG sliding tube has passed 
the inspection required by paragraph (j) of this AD.
    (2) For airplanes that, as of February 22, 2017 (the effective 
date of AD 2017-01-11), do not have an MLG sliding tube installed 
that has a part number and serial number listed in figure 2 to 
paragraph (i) of this AD: No person may install, on any airplane, an 
MLG sliding tube having a part number and serial number listed in 
figure 2 to paragraph (i) of this AD unless that MLG sliding tube 
has passed the inspection required by paragraph (j) of this AD.

(n) Retained Definitions, With No Changes

    This paragraph restates the definitions specified in paragraph 
(n) of AD 2019-12-07, with no changes. For the purpose of paragraphs 
(o), (p), (q), (r), and (s) of this AD, the following definitions 
apply.
    (1) Affected MLG shock absorber: An MLG shock absorber having a 
part number and serial number as identified in Messier-Dowty Service 
Bulletin 200-32-286, Revision 3, dated October 3, 2008, for Model 
A318, A319, and A320 series airplanes; and Messier-Dowty Service 
Bulletin 201-32-43, Revision 3, dated October 3, 2008, for Model 
A321 series airplanes.
    (2) Affected MLG sliding tube: An MLG sliding tube having a part 
number and serial number as identified in Appendix B of Safran 
Service Bulletin 200-32-321, Revision 2, dated October 3, 2017, for 
Model A318, A319, and A320 series airplanes, or Safran Service 
Bulletin 201-32-68, Revision 2, dated October 3, 2017, for Model 
A321 series airplanes; except those parts that passed an inspection 
as specified in Safran Service Bulletin 200-32-321 or Safran Service 
Bulletin 201-32-68, as applicable; and those parts that, after that 
inspection, have been repaired, using instructions approved by the 
Manager, International Section, Transport Standards Branch, FAA; or 
EASA; or Airbus SAS's EASA DOA. If approved by the DOA, the approval 
must include the DOA-authorized signature.
    Note 2 to paragraph (n)(2) of this AD: The affected MLG sliding 
tubes identified in paragraph (n)(2) of this AD are referred to as 
affected ``Batch 1'' MLG sliding tubes in EASA AD 2022-0204R1, dated 
February 15, 2023; corrected February 17, 2023.
    (3) Serviceable MLG sliding tube: An MLG sliding tube that is 
not affected, or an affected MLG sliding tube, that has not exceeded 
10,000 flight cycles since first installation on an airplane, or an 
affected MLG sliding tube that, within the last 5,000 flight cycles 
before installation on an airplane, passed an inspection specified 
in Airbus Service Bulletin A320-32-1441.

(o) Retained Repetitive Inspections, With New Service Information and 
Extended Inspection Interval

    This paragraph restates the repetitive inspections required by 
paragraph (o) of AD 2019-12-07, with new service information and 
extended inspection interval. At the compliance time specified in 
figure 3 to paragraph (o) of this AD, and thereafter at intervals 
not to exceed 10,000 flight cycles: Do a detailed inspection of each 
affected MLG sliding tube, in accordance with the Accomplishment 
Instructions of Airbus Service Bulletin A320-32-1441, Revision 01, 
dated December 14, 2017; or Airbus Service Bulletin A320-32-1441, 
Revision 02, dated August 23, 2022. As of the effective date of this 
AD, only use Airbus Service Bulletin A320-32-1441, Revision 02, 
dated August 23, 2022, for the actions required by this paragraph.

Figure 3 to Paragraph (o)--Initial Compliance Time for MLG Sliding Tube 
Inspection
[GRAPHIC] [TIFF OMITTED] TP01AU23.044

[[Page 50074]]

    Note 3 to paragraph (o): If no reliable data regarding the 
number of flight cycles accumulated by the MLG sliding tube are 
available, operators may refer to the guidance specified in Chapter 
5.2, ``Traceability,'' of Section 1, of Part 1 of the Airbus A318/
A319/A320/A321 Airworthiness Limitations Section.

(p) Retained Corrective Actions for Certain Inspections Required by 
Paragraph (o) of This AD, With New Service Information

    This paragraph restates the corrective actions required by 
paragraph (p) of AD 2019-12-07 for certain inspections required by 
paragraph (o) of this AD, with new service information. For 
airplanes on which any inspection required by paragraph (o) of this 
AD has been done before the effective date of this AD, comply with 
paragraph (p)(1) or (2) of this AD, as applicable. For airplanes on 
which any inspection required by paragraph (o) of this AD has been 
done on or after the effective date of this AD, comply with 
paragraph (y)(1) or (3) of this AD, as applicable.
    (1) If any crack is detected on an MLG sliding tube, before 
further flight, replace that MLG sliding tube with a serviceable MLG 
sliding tube, in accordance with the Accomplishment Instructions of 
Airbus Service Bulletin A320-32-1441, Revision 01, dated December 
14, 2017; or Airbus Service Bulletin A320-32-1441, Revision 02, 
dated August 23, 2022.
    (2) Replacement of an MLG on an airplane with an MLG having a 
serviceable MLG sliding tube installed is an acceptable method to 
comply with the requirements of paragraph (p)(1) of this AD for that 
airplane.

(q) Retained Part Replacement, With New Reference to New Parts 
Installation Limitation

    This paragraph restates the parts replacement required by 
paragraph (q) of AD 2019-12-07, with new reference to new parts 
installation limitation.
    (1) Within 10 years after August 1, 2019 (the effective date of 
AD 2019-12-07), replace each affected MLG sliding tube with an MLG 
sliding tube that is not affected. Installation of an MLG sliding 
tube that is not affected on an airplane constitutes terminating 
action for the repetitive inspections required by paragraph (o) of 
this AD for that airplane. As of the effective date of this AD, 
operators also must comply with the parts installation limitation 
specified in paragraph (aa) of this AD.
    (2) Replacement of an MLG on an airplane with an MLG that does 
not have an affected MLG sliding tube installed is an acceptable 
method to comply with the requirements of paragraph (q)(1) of this 
AD for that airplane. As of the effective date of this AD, operators 
also must comply with the parts installation limitation specified in 
paragraph (aa) of this AD.

(r) Retained Parts Installation Limitation, With a New Exception to 
Paragraph (r)(1) of This AD

    This paragraph restates the parts installation limitation 
specified in paragraph (r) of AD 2019-12-07, with a new exception to 
paragraph (r)(1) of this AD.
    (1) As of August 1, 2019 (the effective date of AD 2019-12-07) 
and before the effective date of this AD, no person may install on 
any airplane an affected MLG shock absorber assembly containing a 
discrepant MLG sliding tube part number. As of the effective date of 
this AD, comply with the parts installation limitation specified in 
paragraph (aa)(1) of this AD.
    (2) Do not install an affected MLG sliding tube on any airplane 
as specified in paragraph (r)(2)(i) or (ii) of this AD, as 
applicable.
    (i) For an airplane with an affected MLG sliding tube installed 
as of August 1, 2019 (the effective date of AD 2019-12-07): After 
replacement of each affected MLG sliding tube as required by 
paragraph (q) of this AD.
    (ii) For an airplane that does not have an affected MLG sliding 
tube installed as of August 1, 2019 (the effective date of AD 2019-
12-07): As of August 1, 2019.

(s) Retained Identification of Airplanes Not Affected by Certain 
Requirements of This AD, With No Changes

    This paragraph restates the airplanes not affected provision 
specified in paragraph (s) of AD 2019-12-07, with no changes. An 
airplane on which Airbus Modification 161202 or Modification 161346 
has been installed in production is not affected by the requirements 
of paragraphs (g), (h), (j), (o), and (q) of this AD, provided it 
has been verified that no affected MLG sliding tube is installed on 
that airplane.

(t) Retained Credit for Previous Actions, With No Changes

    This paragraph restates the credit for previous actions 
specified in paragraph (t) of AD 2019-12-07, with no changes.
    (1) This paragraph provides credit for the actions required by 
paragraph (g) of this AD, if those actions were performed before 
June 29, 2007 (the effective date of AD 2007-11-11), using Airbus 
AOT A320-32A1273, Revision 01, dated May 6, 2004. This document was 
incorporated by reference in AD 2004-11-13, Amendment 39-13659 (69 
FR 31867, June 8, 2004).
    (2) This paragraph provides credit for the initial inspection 
and applicable corrective actions required by paragraphs (o) and (p) 
of this AD if those actions were performed before August 1, 2019 
(the effective date of AD 2019-12-07), using the Accomplishment 
Instructions in Airbus Service Bulletin A320-32-1441, dated December 
28, 2016.

(u) Retained Service Information Exception, With No Changes

    This paragraph restates the service information exception 
specified in paragraph (u) of AD 2019-12-07, with no changes. The 
service information specified in paragraph (g) of this AD has 
instructions to send any cracked part to Messier-Dowty. This AD does 
not include such a requirement.

(v) Retained No Reporting Requirement, With New Service Information

    This paragraph restates the no reporting requirement provision 
specified in paragraph (v) of AD 2019-12-07, with new service 
information. Although Airbus Service Bulletin A320-32-1441, Revision 
01, dated December 14, 2017; and Airbus Service Bulletin A320-32-
1441, Revision 02, dated August 23, 2022; specify to submit certain 
information to the manufacturer, and specify that action as ``RC'' 
(required for compliance), this AD does not include that 
requirement.

(w) New Definitions for New Requirements of This AD

    For the purpose of paragraphs (x), (y), (z), (aa), and (bb) of 
this AD, the following definitions apply.
    (1) Affected MLG sliding tube: An MLG sliding tube having a part 
number identified in Safran Service Bulletin 200-32-321, Revision 4, 
dated November 3, 2021, for Model A318, A319, and A320 series 
airplanes, or Safran Service Bulletin 201-32-68, Revision 4, dated 
November 3, 2021, for Model A321 series airplanes; except those 
having a serial number identified in Appendix B of Safran Service 
Bulletin 200-32-321, Revision 2, dated October 3, 2017, for Model 
A318, A319, and A320 series airplanes, or Safran Service Bulletin 
201-32-68, Revision 2, dated October 3, 2017, for Model A321 series 
airplanes; and except those parts that passed an inspection as 
specified in Safran Service Bulletin 200-32-321 or Safran Service 
Bulletin 201-32-68, as applicable; and those parts that, after that 
inspection, have been repaired, using instructions approved by the 
Manager, International Section, Transport Standards Branch, FAA; or 
EASA; or Airbus SAS's EASA DOA. If approved by the DOA, the approval 
must include the DOA-authorized signature.
    Note 4 to paragraph (w)(1) of this AD: The affected MLG sliding 
tubes identified in paragraph (w)(1) of this AD are referred to as 
affected ``Batch 2'' MLG sliding tubes in EASA AD 2022-0204R1, dated 
February 15, 2023; corrected February 17, 2023.
    (2) Serviceable MLG sliding tube: Any MLG sliding tube other 
than those identified in paragraphs (w)(2)(i) thru (iii) of this AD.
    (i) Any MLG sliding tube having a part number and serial number 
listed in figure 2 to paragraph (i) of this AD.
    (ii) Any affected MLG sliding tube identified in paragraph 
(n)(2) of this AD.
    (iii) Any affected MLG sliding tube identified in paragraph 
(w)(1) of this AD.

(x) New Inspections for Additional Affected MLG Sliding Tubes

    At the compliance time specified in figure 4 to paragraph (x) of 
this AD, and thereafter at intervals not to exceed 10,000 flight 
cycles: Do a detailed inspection of each affected MLG sliding tube, 
as defined in paragraph (w)(1) of this AD, in accordance with the 
Accomplishment Instructions of Airbus Service Bulletin A320-32-1441, 
Revision 02, dated August 23, 2022.

Figure 4 to Paragraph (x)--Initial Compliance Time for MLG Sliding Tube 
Inspection

[[Page 50075]]

[GRAPHIC] [TIFF OMITTED] TP01AU23.045

    Note 5 to paragraph (x): If no reliable data regarding the 
number of flight cycles accumulated by the MLG sliding tube are 
available, operators may refer to the guidance specified in Chapter 
5.2, ``Traceability,'' of Section 1, of Part 1 of the Airbus A318/
A319/A320/A321 Airworthiness Limitations Section.

(y) New Corrective Actions

    (1) For airplanes on which any inspection required by paragraph 
(o) of this AD has been done on or after the effective date of this 
AD: If any crack is detected on an MLG sliding tube, before further 
flight, replace that MLG sliding tube with a serviceable MLG sliding 
tube, as defined in paragraph (w)(2) of this AD, in accordance with 
the Accomplishment Instructions of Airbus Service Bulletin A320-32-
1441, Revision 02, dated August 23, 2022.
    (2) If, during any inspection required by paragraph (x) of this 
AD, any crack is detected on an MLG sliding tube: Before further 
flight, replace that MLG sliding tube with a serviceable MLG sliding 
tube, as defined in paragraph (w)(2) of this AD, in accordance with 
the Accomplishment Instructions of Airbus Service Bulletin A320-32-
1441, Revision 02, dated August 23, 2022.
    (3) Replacement of an MLG on an airplane with an MLG having a 
serviceable MLG sliding tube, as defined in paragraph (w)(2) of this 
AD, installed is an acceptable method to comply with the 
requirements of paragraph (y)(1) or (2) of this AD for that 
airplane.

(z) New Replacement for Additional Affected Parts

    (1) Within 10 years after the effective date of this AD, replace 
each affected MLG sliding tube, as defined in paragraph (w)(1) of 
this AD, with a serviceable MLG sliding tube, as defined in 
paragraph (w)(2) of this AD. Replacement on an airplane of all 
affected MLG sliding tubes with serviceable MLG sliding tubes 
constitutes terminating action for the repetitive inspections 
required by paragraph (x) of this AD for that airplane.
    (2) Replacement of an MLG on an airplane with an MLG that has a 
serviceable MLG sliding tube, as defined in paragraph (w)(2) of this 
AD, installed is an acceptable method to comply with the requirement 
of paragraph (z)(1) of this AD for that airplane.

(aa) New Parts Installation Limitation

    (1) As of the effective date of this AD, no person may install 
on any airplane an MLG shock absorber assembly that contains any MLG 
sliding tube identified in paragraphs (aa)(i) through (iii) of this 
AD.
    (i) Any MLG sliding tube having a part number and serial number 
listed in figure 2 to paragraph (i) of this AD.
    (ii) Any affected MLG sliding tube identified in paragraph 
(n)(2) of this AD.
    (iii) Any affected MLG sliding tube identified in paragraph 
(w)(1) of this AD.
    (2) Do not install an affected MLG sliding tube identified in 
paragraph (w)(1) of this AD on any airplane as specified in 
paragraph (aa)(2)(i) or (ii) of this AD, as applicable.
    (i) For an airplane with an affected MLG sliding tube installed 
as of the effective date of this AD: After replacement of each 
affected MLG sliding tube as required by paragraph (z) of this AD.
    (ii) For an airplane that does not have an affected MLG sliding 
tube installed as of the effective date of this AD: As of the 
effective date of this AD.

(bb) New Identification of Airplanes Not Affected by Certain 
Requirements of This AD

    An airplane on which Airbus Modification 161202 or Modification 
161346 has been installed in production is not affected by the 
requirements for affected MLG sliding tubes in paragraph (x) of this 
AD and the requirement of paragraph (z) of this AD, provided it has 
been verified that no affected MLG sliding tube, as defined in 
paragraph (w)(2) of this AD, is installed on that airplane.

(cc) No Reporting Requirement for New Actions

    Although Airbus Service Bulletin A320-32-1441, Revision 01, 
dated December 14, 2017; and Airbus Service Bulletin A320-32-1441, 
Revision 02, dated August 23, 2022; specify to submit certain 
information to the manufacturer, and specify that action as ``RC'' 
(required for compliance), this AD does not include that 
requirement.

(dd) Additional AD Provisions

    (1) Alternative Methods of Compliance (AMOCs): The Manager, 
International Validation Branch, FAA, has the authority to approve 
AMOCs for this AD, if requested using the procedures found in 14 CFR 
39.19. In accordance with 14 CFR 39.19, send your request to your 
principal inspector or responsible Flight Standards Office, as 
appropriate. If sending information directly to the manager of the 
International Validation Branch, mail it to the address identified 
in paragraph (ee)(2) of this AD or email to: 9-AVS-AIR-730-AMOC[email protected]. If mailing information, also submit information by 
email.
    (i) Before using any approved AMOC, notify your appropriate 
principal inspector, or lacking a principal inspector, the manager 
of the responsible Flight Standards Office.
    (ii) AMOCs approved for AD 2019-12-07 are approved as AMOCs for 
the corresponding provisions of this AD.
    (2) Contacting the Manufacturer: For any requirement in this AD 
to obtain instructions from a manufacturer, the instructions must be 
accomplished using a method approved by the Manager, International 
Validation Branch, FAA; or the European Union Aviation Safety Agency 
(EASA); or Airbus SAS'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 
paragraphs (u), (v), and (dd)(2) 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.

(ee) Additional Information

    (1) Refer to EASA AD 2022-0204R1, dated February 15, 2023; 
corrected February 17, 2023; for related information. This EASA AD 
may be found in the AD docket at regulations.gov under Docket No. 
FAA-2023-1645.
    (2) For more information about this AD, contact Timothy Dowling, 
Aviation Safety Engineer, FAA, 1600 Stewart Avenue, Suite 410, 
Westbury, NY 11590; phone: 206-231-3667; email: 
[email protected].
    (3) Service information identified in this AD that is not 
incorporated by reference is available at the addresses specified in 
paragraphs (ff)(8) and (10) of this AD.

(ff) 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.

[[Page 50076]]

    (3) The following service information was approved for IBR on 
[DATE 35 DAYS AFTER PUBLICATION OF THE FINAL RULE].
    (i) Airbus Service Bulletin A320-32-1441, Revision 02, dated 
August 23, 2022.
    (ii) Safran Service Bulletin 200-32-321, Revision 4, dated 
November 3, 2021.
    (iii) Safran Service Bulletin 201-32-68, Revision 4, dated 
November 3, 2021.
    (4) The following service information was approved for IBR on 
August 1, 2019 (84 FR 30579, June 27, 2019).
    (i) Airbus Service Bulletin A320-32-1441, Revision 01, dated 
December 14, 2017.
    (ii) Messier-Dowty Service Bulletin 200-32-286, Revision 3, 
dated October 3, 2008.
    (iii) Messier-Dowty Service Bulletin 201-32-43, Revision 3, 
dated October 3, 2008.
    (iv) Safran Service Bulletin 200-32-321, Revision 2, dated 
October 3, 2017.
    (v) Safran Service Bulletin 201-32-68, Revision 2, dated October 
3, 2017.
    (5) The following service information was approved for IBR on 
February 22, 2017 (82 FR 5362, January 18, 2017).
    (i) Airbus Service Bulletin A320-32-1416, including Appendix 01, 
dated March 10, 2014.
    (ii) [Reserved]
    (6) The following service information was approved for IBR on 
June 29, 2007 (72 FR 29241, May 25, 2007).
    (i) Airbus Service Bulletin A320-32A1273, Revision 02, including 
Appendix 01, dated May 26, 2005.
    (ii) [Reserved]
    (7) The following service information was approved for IBR on 
June 23, 2004 (69 FR 31867, June 8, 2004).
    (i) Airbus All Operators Telex A320-32A1273, Revision 01, dated 
May 6, 2004.
    (ii) [Reserved]
    (8) For Airbus service information identified in this AD, 
contact Airbus SAS, Airworthiness Office--EIAS, Rond-Point Emile 
Dewoitine No: 2, 31700 Blagnac Cedex, France; telephone +33 5 61 93 
36 96; fax +33 5 61 93 44 51; email airbus.com">[email protected]airbus.com; 
website airbus.com.
    (9) For Safran and Messier-Dowty service information identified 
in this AD, contact Safran Landing Systems, One Carbon Way, Walton, 
KY 41094; telephone (859) 525-8583; fax (859) 485-8827; internet 
www.safran-landing-systems.com.
    (10) You may view this service information at the FAA, 
Airworthiness Products Section, Operational Safety Branch, 2200 
South 216th St., Des Moines, WA. For information on the availability 
of this material at the FAA, call 206-231-3195.
    (11) 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, email [email protected], or go to: www.archives.gov/federal-register/cfr/ibr-locations.html.

    Issued on July 25, 2023.
Victor Wicklund,
Deputy Director, Compliance & Airworthiness Division, Aircraft 
Certification Service.
[FR Doc. 2023-16189 Filed 7-31-23; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE 4910-13-P