Document ID: FAA-2016-3984-0005
Agency: faa
Document Type: Proposed Rule
Title: Airworthiness Directives: Airbus Airplanes
Posted Date: 2017-03-22T04:00Z

[Federal Register Volume 82, Number 54 (Wednesday, March 22, 2017)]
[Proposed Rules]
[Pages 14642-14646]
From the Federal Register Online via the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]
[FR Doc No: 2017-05251]

 ========================================================================
 Proposed Rules
                                                 Federal Register
 ________________________________________________________________________
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 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. 82, No. 54 / Wednesday, March 22, 2017 / 
Proposed Rules  

[[Page 14642]]

DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION

Federal Aviation Administration

14 CFR Part 39

[Docket No. FAA-2016-3984; Directorate Identifier 2014-NM-119-AD]
RIN 2120-AA64

Airworthiness Directives; Airbus Airplanes

AGENCY: Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), DOT.

ACTION: Supplemental notice of proposed rulemaking (SNPRM); reopening 
of comment period.

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

SUMMARY: We are revising an earlier proposal to supersede Airworthiness 
Directive (AD) 2013-10-03 for all Airbus Model A330-200, -200 
Freighter, and -300 series airplanes; and Model A340-200, -300, -500, 
and -600 series airplanes. This action revises the notice of proposed 
rulemaking (NPRM) by adding a replacement of certain main landing gear 
(MLG) with MLG that have an improved bogie beam. We are proposing this 
AD to address the unsafe condition on these products. Since these 
actions impose an additional burden over those proposed in the NPRM, we 
are reopening the comment period to allow the public the chance to 
comment on these proposed changes.

DATES: We must receive comments on this SNPRM by May 8, 2017.

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 http://www.regulations.gov. Follow the instructions for submitting comments.
     Fax: 202-493-2251.
     Mail: U.S. Department of Transportation, Docket 
Operations, M-30, West Building Ground Floor, Room W12-140, 1200 New 
Jersey Avenue SE., Washington, DC 20590.
     Hand Delivery: U.S. Department of Transportation, Docket 
Operations, M-30, West Building Ground Floor, Room W12-140, 1200 New 
Jersey Avenue SE., Washington, DC, between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m., Monday 
through Friday, except Federal holidays.
    For Airbus service information identified in this SNPRM, contact 
Airbus SAS, Airworthiness Office--EAL, 1 Rond Point Maurice Bellonte, 
31707 Blagnac Cedex, France; telephone: +33 5 61 93 36 96; fax: +33 5 
61 93 45 80; email: airworthiness.A330-A340@airbus.com; Internet http://www.airbus.com.
    For Messier-Bugatti-Dowty service information identified in this 
SNPRM, contact Messier Services Americas, Customer Support Center, 
45360 Severn Way, Sterling, VA 20166-8910; phone: 703-450-8233; fax: 
703-404-1621; Internet: https://techpubs.services/messier-dowty.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 this material at the FAA, call 425-
227-1221.

Examining the AD Docket

    You may examine the AD docket on the Internet at http://www.regulations.gov by searching for and locating Docket No. FAA-2016-
3984; 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 proposed AD, the regulatory evaluation, any comments 
received, and other information. The street address for the Docket 
Office (telephone: 800-647-5527) is in the ADDRESSES section. Comments 
will be available in the AD docket shortly after receipt.

FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Vladimir Ulyanov, Aerospace Engineer, 
International Branch, ANM-116, Transport Airplane Directorate, FAA, 
1601 Lind Avenue SW., Renton, WA 98057-3356; telephone: 425-227-1138; 
fax: 425-227-1149.

SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION:

Comments Invited

    We invite you to send any written relevant data, views, or 
arguments about this proposed AD. Send your comments to an address 
listed under the ADDRESSES section. Include ``Docket No. FAA-2016-3984; 
Directorate Identifier 2014-NM-119-AD'' at the beginning of your 
comments. We specifically invite comments on the overall regulatory, 
economic, environmental, and energy aspects of this proposed AD. We 
will consider all comments received by the closing date and may amend 
this proposed AD based on those comments.
    We will post all comments we receive, without change, to http://www.regulations.gov, including any personal information you provide. We 
will also post a report summarizing each substantive verbal contact we 
receive about this proposed AD.

Discussion

    On May 13, 2013, we issued AD 2013-10-03, Amendment 39-17456 (78 FR 
31386, May 24, 2013) (``AD 2013-10-03''). AD 2013-10-03 requires 
actions intended to address an unsafe condition on all Airbus Model 
A330-200, -200 Freighter, and -300 series airplanes; and Model A340-
200, -300, --500, and -600 series airplanes. (AD 2013-10-03 superseded 
AD 2010-02-10, Amendment 39-16181 (75 FR 4477, January 28, 2010)).
    We issued an NPRM to amend 14 CFR part 39 by adding an AD that 
would apply to all Airbus Model A330-200, -200 Freighter, and -300 
series airplanes; and Model A340-200 and -300 series airplanes. The 
NPRM published in the Federal Register on March 1, 2016 (81 FR 10540) 
(``the NPRM''). The NPRM was prompted by reports of corroded and 
cracked bogie beams under the bogie stop pad. The NPRM proposed to 
remove Model A340-500 and -600 series airplanes from the applicability, 
remove certain one-time inspections of the MLG bogie beams and the 
sliding piston sub-assembly, revise certain compliance times, and 
provide, for certain airplanes, an optional terminating action for the 
repetitive actions.

Actions Since the NPRM Was Issued

    Since we issued the NPRM, we have determined that MLG having part 
number (P/N) 201252 series and P/N 201490 series should be replaced 
with a MLG that has an improved bogie beam, which would constitute 
terminating action for the repetitive inspections on the modified MLG.
    The European Aviation Safety Agency (EASA), which is the Technical 
Agent for the Member States of the European Union, has issued EASA AD 
2016-0108, dated June 8, 2016 (referred to after this

[[Page 14643]]

as the Mandatory Continuing Airworthiness Information, or ``the 
MCAI''), to correct an unsafe condition for certain Airbus Model A330-
200, -200 Freighter, and -300 series airplanes; and Model A340-200 and 
-300 series airplanes. The MCAI states:

    During a scheduled maintenance inspection on the Main Landing 
Gear (MLG), the bogie stop pad was found deformed and cracked. Upon 
removal of the bogie stop pad for replacement, the bogie beam was 
also found cracked. The results of a laboratory investigation 
indicated that an overload event had occurred and no fatigue 
propagation of the crack was evident. A second bogie beam crack was 
subsequently found on another aeroplane, located under a bogie stop 
pad which only had superficial paint damage.
    This condition, if not detected and corrected, could lead to 
landing gear bogie detachment from the aeroplane, or landing gear 
collapse, or a runway excursion, possibly resulting in damage to the 
aeroplane and injury to the occupants and/or people on the ground.
    To address this potential unsafe condition, EASA issued AD 2008-
0223 to require accomplishment of a one-time detailed inspection 
under the bogie stop pad of both MLG bogie beams. As a result of the 
one-time inspection required by that [EASA] AD, numerous bogie stop 
pad were found corroded and a few cracked. The one-time inspection 
was retained in EASA AD 2011-0211 [which corresponds to FAA AD 2013-
10-03], which superseded EASA AD 2008-0223, which also introduced 
repetitive inspections, except for A340-500/-600 aeroplanes.
    After EASA AD 2011-0211 was issued, further investigation led to 
the conclusion that the one-time inspection was no longer necessary 
and only the repetitive inspections should remain. In addition, it 
was determined that repetitive inspections were also necessary for 
MLG on A340-500/-600 aeroplanes.
    Prompted by these conclusions, EASA issued AD 2014-0120, 
partially retaining the requirements of EASA AD 2011-0211, which was 
superseded, and introducing repetitive detailed inspections of the 
MLG on A340-500 and A340-600 aeroplanes. Subsequently, further 
analysis indicated that repetitive inspections of the MLG on A340-
500/-600 aeroplanes were not necessary after all. In addition, the 
threshold for the inspection of MLG P/N 10-210 series was raised 
from 24 to 126 months, and Airbus developed a modification of the 
MLG P/N 10-210 series which provides an (optional) terminating 
action for the repetitive inspections.
    Consequently, EASA AD 2014-0120 was revised to delete the 
requirements for A340-500/-600 aeroplanes, to amend the inspection 
threshold for MLG P/N 10-210 series, and to introduce an optional 
terminating action for aeroplanes with MLG P/N 10-210 series.
    Since EASA AD 2014-0120R1 was issued, Airbus developed a 
modification (mod 205289) of the MLG P/N 201252 series and P/N 
201490 series that must be embodied in service with Airbus SB A330-
32-3275 or SB A340-32-4305. It was also identified that A340-500/-
600 aeroplanes could be removed from the applicability of this 
[EASA] AD as no more actions were required on these aeroplanes.
    For the reason described above, this [EASA] AD retains the 
requirements of EASA AD 2014-0120R1, which is superseded, removes 
the A340-500/-600 aeroplanes from the Applicability and requires the 
modification of the MLG P/N 201252 series and P/N 201490 series, 
which constitutes terminating action for the repetitive inspections 
required by this [EASA] AD.

    The required actions include repetitive detailed inspections for 
damage and corrosion of the sliding piston sub-assembly, and related 
investigative and corrective actions if necessary. Related 
investigative actions include a test for indications of corrosion and 
damage to the bogie assembly base material, and a magnetic particle 
inspection for cracks, corrosion, and damage of the bogie beam. 
Corrective actions include repairing affected parts.
    The required terminating action (for MLG having P/N 201252 series 
or P/N 201490 series) and the optional terminating action (for MLG 
having P/N 10-210) are modifications of the bogie beam of an MLG, which 
consist of installing a nickel under chrome coating, a new bogie beam 
stop pad, and new stop pad brackets.
    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-2016-
3984.

Related Service Information Under 1 CFR Part 51

    Airbus has issued the following service information.
     Airbus Service Bulletin A330-32-3248, Revision 05, 
including Appendix 1, dated May 4, 2016; and Airbus Service Bulletin 
A340-32-4286, Revision 02, including Appendix 1, dated January 5, 2016; 
which describe procedures for doing an inspection for damage and 
corrosion of the MLG sliding piston sub-assembly, bogie beam stop pad 
and the bogie beam under the stop pad, and related investigative and 
corrective actions. These documents are distinct since they apply to 
different airplane models.
     Airbus Service Bulletin A330-32-3268, Revision 01, dated 
September 21, 2015, which describes procedures for modification of the 
bogie beam of an MLG having P/N 10-210 that includes installing a 
nickel under chrome coating, a new bogie beam stop pad, and new stop 
pad brackets.
     Airbus Service Bulletin A330-32-3275, dated December 23, 
2015, which describes procedures for modification of the bogie beam of 
an MLG having P/N 201252 series or P/N 201490 series that include 
installing a nickel under chrome coating, a new bogie beam stop pad, 
and new stop pad brackets.
     Airbus Service Bulletin A340-32-4300, dated April 20, 
2015; and Revision 01, dated September 21, 2015; which describe 
procedures for modification of the bogie beam of an MLG having P/N 10-
210 that include installing a nickel under chrome coating, a new bogie 
beam stop pad, and new stop pad brackets. These service bulletins are 
distinct since they are different revision levels.
     Airbus Service Bulletin A340-32-4305, dated December 23, 
2015, which describes procedures for modification of the bogie beam of 
an MLG having P/N 201252 series or P/N 201490 series that includes 
installing a nickel under chrome coating, a new bogie beam stop pad, 
and new stop pad brackets.
    Messier-Bugatti-Dowty has issued the following service information.
     Messier-Bugatti-Dowty Service Bulletin A33/34-32-305, 
including Appendix A, dated April 13, 2015, which describes procedures 
for modification of the bogie beam of an MLG having MLG P/N 10-210 
series that includes installing a nickel under chrome coating, a new 
bogie beam stop pad, and new stop pad brackets.
     Messier-Bugatti-Dowty Service Bulletin A33/34-32-306, 
Revision 1, including Appendix A, dated May 31, 2016, which describes 
procedures for modification of the bogie beam of an MLG having P/N 
201252 series or P/N 201490 series that includes installing a nickel 
under chrome coating, a new bogie beam stop pad, and new stop pad 
brackets.
    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.

Comments

    We gave the public the opportunity to participate in developing 
this proposed AD. We considered the comments received on the proposal 
and the FAA's response to each comment.

Requests To Revise Applicability and Terminating Action

    Air France (AF) and American Airlines (AAL) requested that we 
revise the applicability of the proposed AD to exclude airplanes that 
have had Airbus Modification 204421 or Airbus

[[Page 14644]]

Modification 205289 incorporated in production.
    AAL also requested that we exclude airplanes from the applicability 
that have accomplished the actions specified in Airbus Service Bulletin 
A330-32-3268, dated April 20, 2015, which describes procedures for 
modification of the bogie beam of an MLG having P/N 10-210, and Airbus 
Service Bulletin A330-32-3275, dated December 23, 2015, which describes 
procedures for modification of the bogie beam of an MLG having P/N 
201490.
    AAL and AF also requested that we add Airbus Service Bulletin A330-
32-3275, dated December 23, 2015, as a terminating action in paragraph 
(m) of the proposed AD. AF also asked that we add Airbus Service 
Bulletin A340-32-4305, dated December 23, 2015, as a terminating action 
in paragraph (m) of the proposed AD. AF and AAL referenced the 
applicability in the MCAI as justification for the requests.
    We partially agree with the commenters' requests. We have revised 
paragraph (c) of this proposed AD to exclude airplanes that have 
embodied Airbus Modification 204421 or Airbus Modification 205289 in 
production, which corresponds with the MCAI. However, we have not 
revised paragraph (c) of this proposed AD to exclude airplanes on which 
Airbus Service Bulletin A330-32-3268, dated April 20, 2015; or Airbus 
Service Bulletin A330-32-3275, dated December 23, 2015; has been done 
because those airplanes are not excluded from the MCAI.
    We have added information to paragraph (m) of this proposed AD to 
specify that accomplishing the actions specified in Messier-Bugatti-
Dowty-Service Bulletin A33/34-32-305, including Appendix A, dated April 
13, 2015, for MLG having P/N 10-210, constitutes terminating action for 
the repetitive inspections. We also have added information in paragraph 
(m) of this proposed AD to specify that accomplishing the actions 
specified in the service information referenced in paragraph (k) of 
this proposed AD (which includes references to Airbus Service Bulletin 
A330-32-3275, dated December 23, 2015; and Airbus Service Bulletin 
A340-32-4305, dated December 23, 2015) constitutes terminating action 
for the repetitive inspections.

Additional Changes to This SNPRM

    We have clarified the affected airplanes for paragraphs (h)(1) and 
(h)(3) of this AD by changing the text ``For airplanes . . . having an 
MLG P/N 201252 series and P/N 201490 series'' to ``For airplanes . . . 
having an MLG P/N 201252 series or P/N 201490 series'' (replaced the 
``and'' with an ``or'').
    We have removed the reporting requirements from this SNPRM. We have 
also revised the Costs of Compliance section of this SNPRM to reflect 
the revised proposed requirements.

FAA's Determination and Requirements of This SNPRM

    This product has been approved by the aviation authority of another 
country, and is approved for operation in the United States. Pursuant 
to our bilateral agreement with the State of Design Authority, we have 
been notified of the unsafe condition described in the MCAI and service 
information referenced above. We are proposing this AD because we 
evaluated all pertinent information and determined an unsafe condition 
exists and is likely to exist or develop on other products of these 
same type designs.
    Certain changes described above expand the scope of the NPRM. As a 
result, we have determined that it is necessary to reopen the comment 
period to provide additional opportunity for the public to comment on 
this SNPRM.

Costs of Compliance

    We estimate that this proposed AD affects 89 Model A330-200, -200 
Freighter, and -300 series airplanes of U.S. registry.
    We estimate that it would take about 13 work-hours per product to 
comply with the basic requirements of this proposed AD. The average 
labor rate is $85 per work-hour. Based on these figures, we estimate 
the cost of this proposed AD on U.S. operators to be $98,345, or $1,105 
per product.
    Currently, there are no Model A340-200, or -300 series airplanes on 
the U.S. Register. However, if an affected airplane is imported and 
placed on the U.S. Register in the future, it would be subject to the 
same per-airplane cost specified above for the Model A330-200, -200 
Freighter, and -300 series airplanes.
    In addition, we estimate that any necessary follow-on actions would 
take about 24 work-hours and require parts costing $78, for a cost of 
$2,118 per product. We have no way of determining the number of 
aircraft that might need these actions.
    According to the manufacturer, all of the parts costs of the 
optional terminating action specified in this SNPRM may be covered 
under warranty, thereby reducing the cost impact on affected 
individuals. We do not control warranty coverage for affected 
individuals. As a result, we have included all costs in our cost 
estimate. We have received no definitive data that would enable us to 
provide the work-hour cost estimates for the optional terminating 
action specified in this proposed 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 proposed AD would not have federalism 
implications under Executive Order 13132. This proposed AD would not 
have a substantial direct effect on the States, on the relationship 
between the national Government and the States, or on the distribution 
of power and responsibilities among the various levels of government.
    For the reasons discussed above, I certify this proposed 
regulation:
    1. Is not a ``significant regulatory action'' under Executive Order 
12866;
    2. Is not a ``significant rule'' under the DOT Regulatory Policies 
and Procedures (44 FR 11034, February 26, 1979);
    3. Will not affect intrastate aviation in Alaska; and
    4. Will not have a significant economic impact, positive or 
negative, on a substantial number of small entities under the criteria 
of the Regulatory Flexibility Act.

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:

[[Page 14645]]

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) 
2013-10-03, Amendment 39-17456 (78 FR 31386, May 24, 2013), and adding 
the following new AD:

Airbus: Docket No. FAA-2016-3984; Directorate Identifier 2014-NM-
119-AD.

(a) Comments Due Date

    We must receive comments by May 8, 2017.

(b) Affected ADs

    This AD replaces AD 2013-10-03, Amendment 39-17456 (78 FR 31386, 
May 24, 2013) (``AD 2013-10-03'').

(c) Applicability

    This AD applies to Airbus airplanes identified in paragraphs 
(c)(1) and (c)(2) of this AD, certificated in any category, all 
serial numbers, except those airplanes that have embodied Airbus 
Modification 204421 or Airbus Modification 205289 in production.
    (1) Model A330-201, -202, -203, -223, -223F, -243, -243F, -301, 
-302, -303,
    -321, -322, -323, -341, -342, and -343 airplanes.
    (2) Model A340-211, -212, -213, -311, -312, and -313 airplanes.

(d) Subject

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

(e) Reason

    This AD was prompted by reports of corroded and cracked bogie 
beams under the bogie stop pad. We are issuing this AD to detect and 
correct damage or corrosion under the bogie stop pad of both main 
landing gear (MLG) bogie beams; this condition could result in a 
damaged bogie beam and consequent detachment of the beam from the 
airplane, collapse of the MLG, or departure of the airplane from the 
runway, possibly resulting in damage to the airplane and injury to 
occupants.

(f) Compliance

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

(g) Repetitive Inspections, Related Investigative Actions, and 
Corrective Actions

    For Model A330-200, -200 Freighter, and -300 series airplanes; 
and Model A340-200 and -300 series airplanes; equipped with a MLG 
having part number (P/N) 201252 series, P/N 201490 series, or P/N 
10-210 series: Do the applicable actions required by paragraph 
(g)(1) or (g)(2) of this AD.
    (1) For airplanes equipped, as of the effective date of this AD, 
with a MLG that has been previously inspected as specified in Airbus 
Service Bulletin A330-32-3220, Airbus Service Bulletin A330-32-3248, 
Airbus Service Bulletin A340-32-4264, or Airbus Service Bulletin 
A340-32-4286, as applicable: At applicable times specified in 
paragraphs (h)(1) and (h)(2) of this AD, do a detailed inspection 
for damage (e.g., cracking and fretting) and corrosion of the MLG 
sliding piston sub-assembly, bogie beam stop pad, and the bogie beam 
under the stop pad; and do all applicable related investigative and 
corrective actions; in accordance with the Accomplishment 
Instructions of Airbus Service Bulletin A330-32-3248, Revision 05, 
including Appendix 1, dated May 4, 2016; or Airbus Service Bulletin 
A340-32-4286, Revision 02, including Appendix 1, dated January 5, 
2016; as applicable; except as required by paragraph (j) of this AD. 
Do all applicable related investigative and corrective actions 
before further flight. Repeat the inspection of the MLG sliding 
piston sub-assembly, bogie beam stop pad, and the bogie beam under 
the stop pad, thereafter, at intervals not to exceed 2,500 flight 
cycles or 24 months, whichever occurs first.
    (2) For airplanes equipped, as of the effective date of this AD, 
with a MLG that has not been previously inspected as specified in 
Airbus Service Bulletin A330-32-3220, Airbus Service Bulletin A330-
32-3248, Airbus Service Bulletin A340-32-4264, or Airbus Service 
Bulletin A340-32-4286, as applicable: At the applicable times 
specified in paragraphs (h)(3) and (h)(4) of this AD, do a detailed 
inspection for damage (e.g., cracking and fretting) and corrosion of 
the MLG sliding piston sub-assembly, bogie beam stop pad, and the 
bogie beam under the stop pad; and do all applicable related 
investigative and corrective actions; in accordance with the 
Accomplishment Instructions of Airbus Service Bulletin A330-32-3248, 
Revision 05, including Appendix 1, dated May 4, 2016 or Airbus 
Service Bulletin A340-32-4286, Revision 02, including Appendix 1, 
dated January 5, 2016; as applicable; except as required by 
paragraph (j) of this AD. Do all applicable related investigative 
and corrective actions before further flight. Repeat the inspection 
of the MLG sliding piston sub-assembly, bogie beam stop pad, and the 
bogie beam under the stop pad, thereafter, at intervals not to 
exceed 2,500 flight cycles or 24 months, whichever occurs first.

(h) Compliance Times for the Actions Required by Paragraph (g) of This 
AD

    Do the applicable actions required by paragraph (g) of this AD 
at the applicable time specified in paragraph (h)(1), (h)(2), 
(h)(3), or (h)(4) of this AD.
    (1) For airplanes identified in paragraph (g)(1) of this AD 
having an MLG P/N 201252 series or P/N 201490 series: Before the 
accumulation of 2,500 total flight cycles or 24 months, whichever 
occurs first since the later of the times specified in paragraphs 
(h)(1)(i) and (h)(1)(ii) of this AD.
    (i) Since first flight after a MLG overhaul.
    (ii) Since first flight after the most recent accomplishment of 
an inspection of the MLG, as specified in Airbus Service Bulletin 
A330-32-3220, Airbus Service Bulletin A330-32-3248, Airbus Service 
Bulletin A340-32-4286, or Airbus Service Bulletin A340-32-4264, as 
applicable.
    (2) For airplanes identified in paragraph (g)(1) of this AD 
having an MLG P/N 10-210 series: Before the accumulation of 126 
months since first flight of the MLG on an airplane or since first 
flight on an airplane after the most recent inspection of the MLG, 
as specified in Airbus Service Bulletin A330-32-3248, or Airbus 
Service Bulletin A340-32-4286, as applicable.
    (3) For airplanes identified in paragraph (g)(2) of this AD 
having an MLG P/N 201252 series or P/N 201490 series: At the later 
of the times specified in paragraphs (h)(3)(i) and (h)(3)(ii) of 
this AD.
    (i) Before the accumulation of 2,500 total flight cycles or 24 
months, whichever occurs first since the later of the times 
specified in paragraphs (h)(3)(i)(A) and (h)(3)(i)(B) of this AD.
    (A) Since first flight of the MLG on an airplane.
    (B) Since first flight after a MLG overhaul.
    (ii) Within 16 months after the effective date of this AD.
    (4) For airplanes identified in paragraph (g)(2) of this AD 
having MLG P/N 10-210 series: Before the accumulation of 126 months 
since first flight of the MLG on an airplane.

(i) Optional Overhaul

    For the purposes of this AD, accomplishment of an MLG overhaul 
is acceptable instead of an inspection required by paragraph (g) of 
this AD. The inspections required by paragraph (g) of this AD are 
not terminated by an MLG overhaul, but are required at the next 
applicable compliance time required by paragraph (g) of this AD.

(j) Service Information Exception

    If the applicable service information specified in paragraph (g) 
of this AD specifies to contact Messier-Dowty for instructions, or 
if any repair required by paragraph (g) of this AD is beyond the 
maximum repair allowance specified in the applicable service 
information specified in paragraph (g) of this AD: Before further 
flight, repair 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).

(k) MLG Modification

    For airplanes equipped with MLG having P/N 201252 series or MLG 
having P/N 201490 series: Before the accumulation of 126 months 
since first flight of the MLG on an airplane or since first flight 
on an airplane after the most recent overhaul as of the effective 
date of this AD, as applicable, replace that MLG with a MLG having 
P/N 201252 series or MLG having P/N 201490 series that has an 
improved bogie beam, as defined in Airbus Service Bulletin A330-32-
3275, dated December 23, 2015; or Airbus Service Bulletin A340-32-
4305, dated December 23, 2015; as applicable; and in accordance with 
the Accomplishment Instructions of Messier-Bugatti-Dowty Service 
Bulletin A33/34-32-306, Revision 1, including Appendix A, dated May 
31, 2016.

[[Page 14646]]

(l) Terminating Action Limitation

    Accomplishment of corrective actions required by paragraph (g) 
of this AD does not constitute terminating action for the repetitive 
inspections required by this AD.

(m) Terminating Action for Certain Airplanes

    (1) For airplanes with any MLG having P/N 10-210 series: 
Modification of the bogie beam of each MLG having P/N 10-210 series, 
as specified in Airbus Service Bulletin A330-32-3268, Revision 01, 
dated September 21, 2015; or Airbus Service Bulletin A340-32-4300, 
dated April 20, 2015; or Revision 01, dated September 21, 2015; as 
applicable; and in accordance with the Accomplishment Instructions 
of Messier-Bugatti-Dowty Service Bulletin A33/34-32-305, including 
Appendix A, dated April 13, 2015; constitutes terminating action for 
the repetitive inspection requirements of this AD for that airplane, 
provided that, following in-service modification, the airplane 
remains in post-service bulletin configuration.
    (2) For airplanes with any MLG having P/N 201252 series or P/N 
201490 series: Installation of both left-hand and right-hand MLG 
having P/N 201252 series or P/N 201490 series that has an improved 
bogie beam, as required by paragraph (k) of this AD, constitutes 
terminating action for the repetitive inspections requirements of 
this AD for that airplane, provided that, following in-service 
modification, the airplane remains in post-service bulletin 
configuration.

(n) Parts Installation Prohibition

    Do not install on any airplane a pre-Airbus modification MLG 
having P/N 201252 series or pre-Airbus modification MLG having P/N 
201490 series, as specified in paragraph (n)(1) or (n)(2) of this 
AD, as applicable; or a pre-Airbus modification MLG having P/N 10-
210 series, as specified in paragraph (n)(3) or (n)(4) of this AD, 
as applicable.
    (1) For any airplane that is in post-Airbus Modification 205289 
configuration, or on which the modification required by paragraph 
(k) of this AD has been done: From the effective date of this AD.
    (2) For any airplane that is in pre-Airbus Modification 205289 
configuration, or on which the modification required by paragraph 
(k) of this AD has not been done: After modification of that 
airplane, as required by paragraph (k) of this AD.
    (3) For any airplane that is in post-Airbus Modification 204421 
configuration, or on which the modification specified in paragraph 
(m)(1) of this AD has been done: From the effective date of this AD.
    (4) For an airplane that is in pre-Airbus Modification 204421, 
or on which the modification required by paragraph (m)(1) of this AD 
has not been done: After modification of that airplane, as required 
by paragraph (m)(1) of this AD.

(o) Credit for Previous Actions

    (1) This paragraph provides credit for the actions required by 
paragraph (g) of this AD, if those actions were performed before the 
effective date of this AD using the service information identified 
in paragraphs (o)(1)(i) through (o)(1)(vii) or (o)(2) of this AD, as 
applicable.
    (i) Airbus Service Bulletin A330-32-3248, dated October 5, 2011, 
which is not incorporated by reference in this AD.
    (ii) Airbus Service Bulletin A330-32-3248, Revision 01, 
including Appendix 01, dated December 13, 2012, which was 
incorporated by reference in AD 2013-10-03, Amendment 39-17456 (78 
FR 31386, May 24, 2013).
    (iii) Airbus Service Bulletin A330-32-3248, Revision 02, dated 
April 16, 2014, which is not incorporated by reference in this AD.
    (iv) Airbus Service Bulletin A330-32-3248, Revision 03, dated 
November 27, 2015, which is not incorporated by reference in this 
AD.
    (v) Airbus Service Bulletin A330-32-3248, Revision 04, dated 
January 5, 2016, which is not incorporated by reference in this AD.
    (vi) Airbus Service Bulletin A340-32-4286, dated October 5, 
2011, which was incorporated by reference in AD 2013-10-03, 
Amendment 39-17456 (78 FR 31386, May 24, 2013).
    (vii) Airbus Service Bulletin A340-32-4286, Revision 01, dated 
November 27, 2015, which is not incorporated by reference in this 
AD.
    (2) This paragraph provides credit for the actions required by 
paragraph (k) of this AD, if those actions were performed before the 
effective date of this AD using Messier-Bugatti-Dowty Service 
Bulletin A33/34-32-306, dated December 21, 2015, which is not 
incorporated by reference in this AD.

(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: Vladimir 
Ulyanov, Aerospace Engineer, International Branch, ANM-116, 
Transport Airplane Directorate, FAA, 1601 Lind Avenue SW., Renton, 
WA 98057-3356; telephone: 425-227-1138; 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. The AMOC approval letter must specifically 
reference this AD.
    (ii) AMOCs approved previously for AD 2013-10-03 are not 
approved as AMOCs with 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 (j) 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 2016-0108, dated June 8, 2016, 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-2016-3984.
    (2) For Airbus service information identified in this AD, 
contact Airbus SAS, Airworthiness Office--EAL, 1 Rond Point Maurice 
Bellonte, 31707 Blagnac Cedex, France; telephone: +33 5 61 93 36 96; 
fax: +33 5 61 93 45 80; email: airworthiness.A330-A340@airbus.com; 
Internet http://www.airbus.com. For Messier-Bugatti-Dowty service 
information identified in this AD, contact Messier Services 
Americas, Customer Support Center, 45360 Severn Way, Sterling, VA 
20166-8910; phone: 703-450-8233; fax: 703-404-1621; Internet: 
https://techpubs.services/messier-dowty.com. 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.

    Issued in Renton, Washington, on March 9, 2017.
Michael Kaszycki,
Acting Manager, Transport Airplane Directorate, Aircraft Certification 
Service.
[FR Doc. 2017-05251 Filed 3-21-17; 8:45 am]
 BILLING CODE 4910-13-P