Document ID: FAA-2017-0556-0006
Agency: faa
Document Type: Rule
Title: Airworthiness Directives: Airbus Airplanes
Posted Date: 2017-12-11T05:00Z

[Federal Register Volume 82, Number 236 (Monday, December 11, 2017)]
[Rules and Regulations]
[Pages 58102-58107]
From the Federal Register Online via the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]
[FR Doc No: 2017-26363]

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DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION

Federal Aviation Administration

14 CFR Part 39

[Docket No. FAA-2017-0556; Product Identifier 2016-NM-098-AD; Amendment 
39-19119; AD 2017-25-05]
RIN 2120-AA64

Airworthiness Directives; Airbus Airplanes

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

ACTION: Final rule.

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

SUMMARY: We are superseding Airworthiness Directive (AD) 2012-23-10, 
which applied to all Airbus Model A318 series airplanes; Model A319 
series airplanes; Model A320-211, -212, -214, -231, -232, and -233 
airplanes; and Model A321-111, -112, -131, -211, -212, -213, -231, and 
-232 airplanes. AD 2012-23-10 required modifying the affected slide 
rafts. This AD retains the requirements of AD 2012-23-10. This AD also 
requires replacing each escape slide pack assembly having a certain 
part number with a new escape slide pack assembly. This AD was prompted 
by reports of the escape raft inflation system not deploying when 
activated due to the rotation of the cable guide in a direction that 
resulted in jamming of the inflation control cable. We are issuing this 
AD to address the unsafe condition on these products.

DATES: This AD is effective January 16, 2018.
    The Director of the Federal Register approved the incorporation by 
reference of certain publications listed in this AD as of January 16, 
2018.
    The Director of the Federal Register approved the incorporation by 
reference of certain other publications listed in this AD as of 
December 31, 2012 (77 FR 70369, November 26, 2012).

ADDRESSES: For Airbus service information identified in this final 
rule, contact Airbus, Airworthiness Office--EIAS, 1 Rond Point Maurice 
Bellonte, 31707 Blagnac Cedex, France; telephone +33 5 61 93 36 96; fax 
+33 5 61 93 44 51; email [email protected]; Internet 
http://www.airbus.com. For Zodiac Aerospace service information 
identified in this AD, contact Air Cruisers, Cage Code 70167, 1747 
State Route 34, Wall Township, NJ 07727-3935; telephone: (732) 681-
3527; Internet: http://www.zodiacaerospace.com. You may view this 
referenced service information at the FAA, Transport Standards Branch, 
1601 Lind Avenue SW., Renton, WA. For information on the availability 
of 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-2017-0556.

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 2017-
0556; 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: Sanjay Ralhan, Aerospace Engineer, 
International Section, Transport Standards Branch, FAA, 1601 Lind 
Avenue SW., Renton, WA 98057-3356; telephone 425-227-1405; fax 425-227-
1149.

SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION:

Discussion

    We issued a notice of proposed rulemaking (NPRM) to amend 14 CFR 
part 39 to supersede AD 2012-23-10, Amendment 39-17266 (77 FR 70369, 
November 26, 2012) (``AD 2012-23-10''). AD 2012-23-10 applied to all 
Airbus Model A318 series airplanes; Model A319 series airplanes; Model 
A320-211, -212, -214, -231, -232, and -233 airplanes; and Model A321-
111, -112, -131, -211, -212, -213, -231, and -232 airplanes. The NPRM 
published in the Federal Register on June 23, 2017 (82 FR 28599). The 
NPRM was prompted by reports of the escape raft inflation system not 
deploying when activated due to the rotation of the cable guide in a 
direction that resulted in jamming of the inflation control cable.
    The European Aviation Safety Agency (EASA), which is the Technical 
Agent for the Member States of the European Union, has issued EASA AD 
2016-0043, dated March 4, 2016 (referred to after this as the Mandatory 
Continuing Airworthiness Information, or ``the MCAI''), to correct an 
unsafe condition for all Airbus Model A318, A319, A320, and A321 series 
airplanes. The MCAI states:

    Two occurrences were reported on Airbus A320 family aeroplanes 
where the escape slide raft inflation system did not deploy when 
activated. This was due to the rotation of the cable guide in a 
direction, which resulted in jamming of the inflation control cable. 
Additionally, one case was reported where the system did not deploy 
properly due to a cracked inflation hose fitting. Investigation 
conducted by Air Cruisers Company [Zodiac Aero Evacuation Systems], 
the slide raft manufacturer, showed that the hose fitting could be 
subject to a bending moment, if improperly packed. Consequently, the 
hose fitting could separate from the reservoir and the inflation of 
the slide raft would be impaired.
    This condition, if not corrected, could delay the evacuation 
from the aeroplane in case of emergency, possibly resulting in 
injury to the occupants.
    To address this potential unsafe condition, DGAC France issued 
AD F-2004-072 [which correlates with FAA AD 2004-26-07, Amendment 
39-13919 (70 FR 1176, January 6, 2005)], to introduce an inflation 
hose retainer preventing an incomplete inflation of emergency escape 
slides, which could delay passenger evacuation, and EASA issued AD 
2011-0160 (later revised twice) to require modification of the 
affected slide rafts or replacement thereof with modified units.
    Since EASA AD 2011-0160R2 [which correlates with FAA AD 2012-23-
10 and was issued as a stand-alone, non-superseding AD] was issued, 
Air Cruisers [Zodiac Aero Evacuation Systems] developed a 
modification of the slide and slide/raft, part of the escape slide 
pack assemblies, to improve its deployment. Modified slides and 
slide/rafts are identified by a different Part Number (P/N); 
consequently, also the escape slide pack assemblies are identified 
by a different P/N.
    For the reasons described above, this [EASA] AD retains the 
requirements of DGAC France AD F-2004-072 (EASA approval 2004-5335) 
and EASA AD 2011-0160R2, which are superseded, and requires 
installation of modified escape slide pack assemblies.
    Appendix 1 of this [EASA] AD provides a comprehensive list of 
escape slide pack assemblies P/N that, at the issue date of the 
[EASA] AD, are not approved for further installation on any 
aeroplane.

    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 2017-
0556.

Comments

    We gave the public the opportunity to participate in developing 
this AD. The following presents the comments

[[Page 58103]]

received on the NPRM and the FAA's response to each comment. The Air 
Line Pilots Association, International supported the NPRM.

Request To Extend the Compliance Time

    United Airlines (UAL) requested that the compliance time in the 
proposed AD be extended from 36 months to 42 months. UAL stated that 
this will allow sufficient time to purge the stock and order parts from 
the supplier.
    We disagree with the commenter's request. UAL has not provided 
suitable rationale to justify that extending the compliance time will 
ensure the safety of the affected fleet. In developing the appropriate 
compliance time for this action, we considered the safety implications, 
parts availability, and normal maintenance schedules for timely 
accomplishment of this modification. We have determined that 36 months 
will ensure an acceptable level of safety and provide sufficient time 
to order parts and accomplish the required modification. We have not 
changed this AD in this regard.

Request To Allow Interchangeable Parts

    Delta Airlines (DAL) requested an allowance for interchangeable 
parts. DAL stated that paragraph (l) of the proposed AD specifies the 
replacement of ``old'' escape slide packs with corresponding ``new'' 
escape slide packs. DAL stated that paragraph (l) of the proposed AD 
does not allow the replacement of an ``old'' slide pack with an 
alternative ``new'' slide pack that might be fully interchangeable with 
the one that is mandated. DAL commented that, for example, an airplane 
with a part number (P/N) D30664-505 slide pack already installed must 
be replaced with a P/N D30664-705 slide pack. DAL stated that, however, 
P/N D30664-705 and P/N D30664-709 have incorporated Zodiac Aero 
Evacuation Systems Service Bulletin S.B. A320 004-25-96, Revision 1, 
dated September 18, 2015, and are fully interchangeable on DAL 
airplanes. DAL also commented that paragraph (l) of the proposed AD 
limits operational flexibility for accomplishing the intent of the 
NPRM.
    We disagree with the commenter's request because Airbus has defined 
the specific configuration of the pack assemblies that mitigate the 
risk addressed in this AD. We are not aware of any data that 
substantiates the interchanging of those parts referenced in table 1 to 
paragraphs (l), (m)(2), (n)(2), and (o)(1) of this AD, except as 
provided in paragraph (o)(3) of this AD. Operators may request approval 
of an alternative method of compliance (AMOC) supported by appropriate 
substantiating data, under the provisions of paragraph (q)(1) of this 
AD. We have not changed this AD in this regard.

Request for Means of Compliance

    UAL requested that operators be allowed to demonstrate compliance 
by means of a technical records review for the accomplishment of the 
related Zodiac Aero Evacuation Systems service information.
    We contacted UAL to clarify their request. Based on UAL's 
clarification, we concluded that UAL is requesting the accomplishment 
of a records review as an acceptable method for demonstrating 
compliance to the modification of spare parts specified in paragraph 
(m)(2) of this AD. We agree with UAL that a records review can be used 
to verify the modification specified in paragraph (m)(2) of this AD has 
been done as specified in the Zodiac Aero Evacuation Systems service 
information identified in that paragraph. We have not changed this AD 
in this regard.

Request To Use the Latest Service Information

    UAL stated that it would like to highlight that Zodiac Aero 
Evacuation Systems Service Bulletin S.B. A320 004-25-96, Revision 1, 
dated September 18, 2015; and Zodiac Aero Evacuation Systems Service 
Bulletin S.B. A320 004-25-97, Revision 1, dated September 18, 2015, are 
now at Revision 2. UAL also commented that Airbus Service Bulletin 
A320-25-1B82, Revision 01, dated December 10, 2015, is at Revision 2.
    We infer that UAL is requesting that we use the latest service 
information in this AD. We agree with the commenter's request and have 
revised paragraphs (m)(1)(ii) and (m)(2) of this AD accordingly. We 
have also revised paragraph (p) of this AD to give credit for previous 
actions accomplished before the effective date of this AD using earlier 
versions of the service information.

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 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.
    We also determined that these changes will not increase the 
economic burden on any operator or increase the scope of this AD.

Related Service Information Under 1 CFR Part 51

    Airbus has issued the following service information, which 
describes procedures for replacing certain escape slide pack 
assemblies. These documents are distinct since they apply to different 
airplane models in different configurations.
     Service Bulletin A320-25-1B81, Revision 01, dated December 
10, 2015.
     Service Bulletin A320-25-1B82, Revision 02, dated July 6, 
2017.
     Service Bulletin A320-25-1B83, Revision 01, dated December 
10, 2015.
     Service Bulletin A320-25-1B84, Revision 01, dated December 
10, 2015.
    Zodiac Aerospace has issued Zodiac Aero Evacuation Systems Service 
Bulletin S.B. A320 004-25-96, Revision 2, dated April 29, 2016; and 
Zodiac Aero Evacuation Systems Service Bulletin S.B. A320 004-25-97, 
Revision 2, dated September 1, 2016. This service information describes 
procedures for modification of the escape slide pack. These documents 
are distinct since they apply to different airplane models in different 
configurations.
    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 959 airplanes of U.S. registry.
    We estimate the following costs to comply with this AD:

[[Page 58104]]

                                                 Estimated Costs
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                                     Cost per      Cost on U.S.
               Action                         Labor cost            Parts cost        product        operators
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Modification and installation        19 work-hours x $85 per                $341          $1,956      $1,875,804
 (retained actions from AD 2012-23-   hour = $1,615.
 10).
Replacement and modification (new    6 work-hours x $85 per hour               0             510         489,090
 action).                             = $510.
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

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.
    This AD is issued in accordance with authority delegated by the 
Executive Director, Aircraft Certification Service, as authorized by 
FAA Order 8000.51C. In accordance with that order, issuance of ADs is 
normally a function of the Compliance and Airworthiness Division, but 
during this transition period, the Executive Director has delegated the 
authority to issue ADs applicable to transport category airplanes to 
the Director of the System Oversight Division.

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) 
2012-23-10, Amendment 39-17266 (77 FR 70369, November 26, 2010), and 
adding the following new AD:

2017-25-05 Airbus: Amendment 39-19119; Docket No. FAA 2017-0556; 
Product Identifier 2016-NM-098-AD.

(a) Effective Date

    This AD is effective January 16, 2018.

(b) Affected ADs

    This AD replaces AD 2012-23-10, Amendment 39-17266 (77 FR 70369, 
November 26, 2012) (``AD 2012-23-10'').

(c) Applicability

    This AD applies to all Airbus 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, -231, -232, and -233 
airplanes; and Model A321-111, -112, -131, -211, -212, -213, -231, 
and -232 airplanes; certificated in any category; all manufacturer 
serial numbers.

(d) Subject

    Air Transport Association (ATA) of America Code 25, Equipment/
Furnishings.

(e) Reason

    This AD was prompted by reports of the escape raft inflation 
system not deploying when activated due to the rotation of the cable 
guide in a direction which resulted in jamming of the inflation 
control cable. We are issuing this AD to prevent non-deployment of 
the escape slide raft, which could result in delayed evacuation from 
the airplane during an emergency and consequent injury to 
passengers.

(f) Compliance

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

(g) Retained: Modification, With No Changes

    This paragraph restates the requirements of paragraph (g) of AD 
2012-23-10, with no changes. Except as provided by paragraph (i) of 
this AD, within 36 months after December 31, 2012 (the effective 
date of AD 2012-23-10): Modify the escape slide rafts that have a 
part number (P/N) specified in figure 1 to paragraphs (g), (j)(1), 
and (j)(2) of this AD, in accordance with the Accomplishment 
Instructions of Airbus Service Bulletin A320-25-1723, dated December 
17, 2010 (for Model A319, A320, and A321 series airplanes); or 
Airbus Service Bulletin A320-25-1724, dated December 17, 2010 (for 
Model A318 series airplanes).

 Figure 1 to Paragraphs (g), (j)(1), and (j)(2) of This AD--Escape Slide
                                  Rafts
------------------------------------------------------------------------
 
------------------------------------------------------------------------
  Air Cruisers and Aerazur Escape Slide Rafts Part No. if Fitted With a
      Reservoir and Valve Assembly P/N D18309-105 or P/N D18309-205
------------------------------------------------------------------------
              D30664-105                           D30665-105
              D30664-107                           D30665-107
              D30664-109                           D30665-109
              D30664-305                           D30665-305
              D30664-307                           D30665-307
              D30664-309                           D30665-309
              D30664-311                           D30665-311
------------------------------------------------------------------------

(h) Retained: Replacement in Accordance With Air Cruisers Service 
Bulletin, With No Changes

    This paragraph restates the requirements of paragraph (h) of AD 
2012-23-10, with no changes. Replacement of all affected escape 
slide rafts on any affected airplane with slide rafts that have been 
modified in accordance with the Accomplishment Instructions of Air 
Cruisers Service Bulletin S.B. A320 004-25-85, Revision 2, dated 
January 3, 2012, is acceptable for compliance with the requirements 
of paragraph (g) of this AD, provided that prior to or concurrently 
with accomplishing the modification, the installation of the cable 
guide assembly is done in accordance with the Accomplishment 
Instructions of Air Cruisers Service Bulletin S.B. A320 004-25-56, 
dated November 12, 1999.

[[Page 58105]]

(i) Retained: Airplanes Not Affected by Paragraph (g) of This AD, With 
No Changes

    This paragraph restates the requirements of paragraph (i) of AD 
2012-23-10, with no changes. Before the effective date of this AD: 
Airplanes on which Airbus Modification 151459 or Modification 151502 
has been embodied in production, and on which no escape slide raft 
replacements have been made since first flight, are not affected by 
the requirement specified in paragraph (g) of this AD.

(j) Retained: Parts Installation Limitations, With No Changes

    This paragraph restates the requirements of paragraph (j) of AD 
2012-23-10, with no changes.
    (1) For airplanes other than those identified in paragraph (i) 
of this AD: After accomplishment of the modification required by 
paragraph (g) of this AD or after accomplishment of the alternative 
modification specified in paragraph (h) of this AD, no person may 
install, on any airplane, an escape slide raft specified in figure 1 
to paragraphs (g), (j)(1), and (j)(2) of this AD, unless it has been 
modified in accordance with the Accomplishment Instructions of 
Airbus Service Bulletin A320-25-1723, dated December 17, 2010 (for 
Model A319, A320, and A321 series airplanes); Airbus Service 
Bulletin A320-25-1724, dated December 17, 2010 (for Model A318 
series airplanes); or Air Cruisers Service Bulletin S.B. A320 004-
25-85, Revision 2, dated January 3, 2012 (for Model A318, A319, 
A320, and A321 series airplanes), including the installation of the 
cable guide assembly in accordance with the Accomplishment 
Instructions of Air Cruisers Service Bulletin S.B. A320 004-25-56, 
dated November 12, 1999.
    (2) For airplanes identified in paragraph (i) of this AD: As of 
December 31, 2012 (the effective date of AD 2012-23-10), no person 
may install, on any airplane, an escape slide raft specified in 
figure 1 to paragraphs (g), (j)(1), and (j)(2) of this AD, unless it 
has been modified in accordance with the Accomplishment Instructions 
of Airbus Service Bulletin A320-25-1723, dated December 17, 2010 
(for Model A319, A320, and A321 series airplanes); Airbus Service 
Bulletin A320-25-1724, dated December 17, 2010 (for Model A318 
series airplanes); or Air Cruisers Service Bulletin S.B. A320 004-
25-85, Revision 2, dated January 3, 2012 (for Model A318, A319, 
A320, and A321 series airplanes), including the installation of the 
cable guide assembly in accordance with the Accomplishment 
Instructions of Air Cruisers Service Bulletin S.B. A320 004-25-56, 
dated November 12, 1999.

(k) Retained: Credit for Previous Actions, With No Changes

    This paragraph restates the requirements of paragraph (k) of AD 
2012-23-10, with no changes. This paragraph provides credit for the 
actions required by paragraphs (h) and (j) of this AD, if those 
actions were performed before December 31, 2012 (the effective date 
of AD 2012-23-10), using Air Cruisers Service Bulletin S.B. A320 
004-25-85, dated November 30, 2010; or Air Cruisers Service Bulletin 
S.B. A320 004-25-85, Revision 1, dated September 30, 2011; which are 
not incorporated by reference in this AD.

(l) New: Replacement

    Within 36 months after the effective date of this AD, replace 
each escape slide pack assembly having a part number identified as 
``old'' in table 1 to paragraphs (l), (m)(2), (n)(2), and (o)(1) of 
this AD, with a new escape slide pack assembly having the 
corresponding part number identified as ``new'' in table 1 to 
paragraphs (l), (m)(2), (n)(2), and (o)(1) of this AD, using a 
method approved by the Manager, International Section, Transport 
Standards Branch, FAA; or the European Aviation Safety Agency 
(EASA); or Airbus's EASA Design Organization Approval (DOA).

  Table 1 to Paragraphs (l), (m)(2), (n)(2), and (o)(1) of This AD--Air
 Cruisers and Aerazur Escape Slide Pack Assemblies Affected by Paragraph
                             (1) of This AD
------------------------------------------------------------------------
 Escape slide  pack assembly  part    Escape slide  pack assembly  part
              No.--Old                             No.--New
------------------------------------------------------------------------
              D30664-405                           D30664-605
              D30664-407                           D30664-607
              D30664-409                           D30664-609
              D30664-505                           D30664-705
              D30664-507                           D30664-707
              D30664-509                           D30664-709
              D30664-511                           D30664-711
              D30665-405                           D30665-605
              D30665-407                           D30665-607
              D30665-409                           D30665-609
              D30665-505                           D30665-705
              D30665-507                           D30665-707
              D30665-509                           D30665-709
              D30665-511                           D30665-711
              D31516-119                           D31516-619
              D31516-121                           D31516-621
              D31516-123                           D31516-623
              D31516-125                           D31516-625
              D31516-315                           D31516-615
              D31516-317                           D31516-617
              D31516-415                           D31516-715
              D31516-417                           D31516-717
              D31516-519                           D31516-719
              D31516-521                           D31516-721
              D31516-523                           D31516-723
              D31516-525                           D31516-725
              D31517-119                           D31517-619
              D31517-121                           D31517-621
              D31517-123                           D31517-623
              D31517-125                           D31517-625
              D31517-315                           D31517-615
              D31517-317                           D31517-617
              D31517-415                           D31517-715
              D31517-417                           D31517-717
              D31517-519                           D31517-719
              D31517-521                           D31517-721
              D31517-523                           D31517-723
              D31517-525                           D31517-725
------------------------------------------------------------------------

(m) New: Modification

    (1) Modification of an airplane in accordance with the 
Accomplishment Instructions of the applicable service information 
specified in paragraphs (m)(1)(i) through (m)(1)(iv) of this AD, as 
applicable to the airplane model and escape slide pack assembly part 
number, is an acceptable method of compliance with the requirements 
of paragraph (l) of this AD for that airplane.
    (i) Airbus Service Bulletin A320-25-1B81, Revision 01, dated 
December 10, 2015 (for airplanes equipped with slide/rafts having P/
Ns D30664-405, D30664-407, D30664-409, D30664-505, D30664-507, 
D30664-509, D30664-511, D30665-405, D30665-407, D30665-409, D30665-
505, D30665-507, D30665-509, and D30665-511).
    (ii) Airbus Service Bulletin A320-25-1B82, Revision 02, dated 
July 6, 2017 (for airplanes equipped with slides having P/Ns D31516-
121, D31516-125, D31516-317, D31516-417, D31516-525, D31517-121, 
D31517-125, D31517-317, D31517-417, and D31517-525).
    (iii) Airbus Service Bulletin A320-25-1B83, Revision 01, dated 
December 10, 2015 (for airplanes equipped with slides with re-entry 
line P/Ns D31516-119, D31516-123, D31516-519, D31516-523, D31516-
315, D31516-415, D31517-119, D31517-123, D31517-519, D31517-523, 
D31517-315, and D31517-415).
    (iv) Airbus Service Bulletin A320-25-1B84, Revision 01, dated 
December 10, 2015 (for airplanes equipped with slides with Dual 
Fastener P/N D31516-521 and D31517-521).
    (2) An escape slide pack assembly not installed on an airplane 
and having a part number identified as ``old'' in table 1 to 
paragraphs (l), (m)(2), (n)(2), and (o)(1) of this AD may be 
modified to the corresponding part number identified as ``new'' in 
table 1 to paragraphs (l), (m)(2), (n)(2), and (o)(1) of this AD, in 
accordance with Zodiac Aero Evacuation Systems Service Bulletin S.B. 
A320 004-25-96, Revision 2, dated April 29, 2016; and Zodiac Aero 
Evacuations Systems Service Bulletin S.B. A320 004-25-97, Revision 
2, dated September 1, 2016; as applicable.

(n) New: Airplanes Not Affected

    (1) An airplane on which Airbus Modification 151459 or 
Modification 151502 has been embodied in production is not affected 
by the requirements of paragraph (g) of this AD, provided it is 
determined that no escape slide pack assembly having a part number 
specified in figure 2 to paragraphs (n) and (o)(2) of this AD, 
figure 3 to paragraphs (n) and (o)(2) of this AD, or figure 4 to 
paragraphs (n) and (o)(2) of this AD, is installed on that airplane 
as of the effective date of this AD.
    (2) An airplane on which Airbus Modification 156766, 
Modification 156767, Modification 156768, Modification 156769, or 
Modification 156770 has been embodied in production is not affected 
by the requirements of paragraphs (g) and (l) of this AD, provided 
that it is determined that no escape slide raft having a part number 
identified in figure 2 to paragraphs (n) and (o)(2) of this AD, 
figure 3 to paragraphs (n) and (o)(2) of this AD, or figure 4 to 
paragraphs (n) and (o)(2) of this AD, or having a part number 
identified as ``old'' in table 1 to paragraphs (l), (m)(2), (n)(2), 
and (o)(1) of this AD, is installed on that airplane as of the 
effective date of this AD.

[[Page 58106]]

   Figure 2 to Paragraphs (n) and (o)(2) of This AD--Air Cruisers and
 Aerazur Escape Slide Pack Assemblies Affected by Paragraph (1) of This
                                   AD
------------------------------------------------------------------------
 
------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                Part No.
------------------------------------------------------------------------
              D31516-111                           D31517-111
              D31516-113                           D31517-113
              D31516-115                           D31517-115
              D31516-117                           D31517-117
              D31516-311                           D31517-311
              D31516-313                           D31517-313
------------------------------------------------------------------------

   Figure 3 to Paragraphs (n) and (o)(2) of This AD--Air Cruisers and
 Aerazur Escape Slide Pack Assemblies Affected by Paragraphs (g) and (h)
                               of This AD
  [If fitted with a Reservoir and Valve Assembly P/N D18309-105 or P/N
                               D18309-205]
------------------------------------------------------------------------
 
------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                Part No.
------------------------------------------------------------------------
              D30664-105                           D30665-105
              D30664-107                           D30665-107
              D30664-109                           D30665-109
              D30664-305                           D30665-305
              D30664-307                           D30665-307
              D30664-309                           D30665-309
              D30664-311                           D30665-311
------------------------------------------------------------------------

   Figure 4 to Paragraphs (n) and (o)(2) of This AD--Air Cruisers and
      Aerazur Escape Slide Pack Assemblies Not Approved for Further
                      Installation on Any Airplane
------------------------------------------------------------------------
 
------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                Part No.
------------------------------------------------------------------------
              D30664-101                           D30665-101
              D30664-103                           D30665-103
              D31516-101                           D31517-101
              D31516-103                           D31517-103
              D31516-105                           D31517-105
              D31516-107                           D31517-107
              D31516-109                           D31517-109
------------------------------------------------------------------------

(o) New: Parts Installation Provisions

    (1) As of the effective date of this AD, do not install on any 
airplane an escape slide pack assembly having a part number 
identified as ``old'' in table 1 to paragraphs (l), (m)(2), (n)(2), 
and (o)(1) of this AD.
    (2) As of the effective date of this AD, do not install on any 
airplane an escape slide pack assembly having a part number 
identified in figure 2 to paragraphs (n) and (o)(2) of this AD, 
figure 3 to paragraphs (n) and (o)(2) of this AD, and figure 4 to 
paragraphs (n) and (o)(2) of this AD.
    (3) Installation of an escape slide pack assembly having a part 
number approved after March 18, 2016 (the effective date of EASA AD 
2016-0043), constitutes compliance with the requirements of 
paragraph (l) of this AD, provided the conditions as specified in 
paragraphs (o)(3)(i) and (o)(3)(ii) of this AD are met.
    (i) The part number must be approved by the Manager, 
International Section, Transport Standards Branch, FAA; or the EASA; 
or Airbus's EASA DOA; and
    (ii) The installation must be accomplished in accordance with 
airplane modification instructions approved by the Manager, 
International Section, Transport Standards Branch, FAA; or the EASA; 
or Airbus's EASA DOA.

(p) Credit for Previous Actions

    (1) This paragraph provides credit for actions required by 
paragraph (m)(1) of this AD, if those actions were performed before 
the effective date of this AD using the applicable service 
information in paragraphs (p)(1)(i) through (p)(1)(v) of this AD.
    (i) Airbus Service Bulletin A320-25-1B81, dated August 13, 2015.
    (ii) Airbus Service Bulletin A320-25-1B82, dated August 13, 
2015.
    (iii) Airbus Service Bulletin A320-25-1B82, Revision 01, dated 
December 10, 2015.
    (iv) Airbus Service Bulletin A320-25-1B83, dated July 31, 2015.
    (v) Airbus Service Bulletin A320-25-1B84, dated July 31, 2015.
    (2) This paragraph provides credit for actions required by 
paragraph (m)(2) of this AD, if those actions were performed before 
the effective date of this AD using the applicable service 
information in paragraphs (p)(2)(i) through (p)(2)(iv) of this AD.
    (i) Zodiac Aero Evacuation Systems Service Bulletin S.B. A320 
004-25-96, dated July 9, 2015;
    (ii) Zodiac Aero Evacuation Systems Service Bulletin S.B. A320 
004-25-96, Revision 1, dated September 18, 2015.
    (iii) Zodiac Aero Evacuation Systems Service Bulletin S.B. A320 
004-25-97, dated July 9, 2015.
    (iv) Zodiac Aero Evacuation Systems Service Bulletin S.B. A320 
004-25-97, Revision 1, dated September 18, 2015.

(q) Other FAA AD Provisions

    The following provisions also apply to this AD:
    (1) Alternative Methods of Compliance (AMOCs): The Manager, 
International Section, Transport Standards 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 local Flight 
Standards District Office, as appropriate. If sending information 
directly to the International Section, send it to the attention of 
the person identified in paragraph (r)(2) of this AD. Information 
may be emailed to: [email protected]. 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.
    (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 Section, Transport Standards 
Branch, FAA; or the EASA; or Airbus's EASA DOA. If approved by the 
DOA, the approval must include the DOA-authorized signature.
    (3) Required for Compliance (RC): 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.

(r) Related Information

    (1) Refer to Mandatory Continuing Airworthiness Information 
(MCAI) EASA AD 2016-0043, dated March 4, 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 2017-0556.
    (2) For more information about this AD, contact Sanjay Ralhan, 
Aerospace Engineer, International Section, Transport Standards 
Branch, FAA, 1601 Lind Avenue SW., Renton, WA 98057-3356; telephone 
425-227-1405; fax 425- 227-1149.
    (3) Service information identified in this AD that is not 
incorporated by reference is available at the addresses specified in 
paragraphs (s)(5) and (s)(6) of this AD.

(s) 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 
January 16, 2018.
    (i) Airbus Service Bulletin A320-25-1B81, Revision 01, dated 
December 10, 2015.
    (ii) Airbus Service Bulletin A320-25-1B82, Revision 02, dated 
July 6, 2017.
    (iii) Airbus Service Bulletin A320-25-1B83, Revision 01, dated 
December 10, 2015.
    (iv) Airbus Service Bulletin A320-25-1B84, Revision 01, dated 
December 10, 2015.
    (v) Zodiac Aero Evacuation Systems Service Bulletin S.B. A320 
004-25-96, Revision 2, dated April 29, 2016.
    (vi) Zodiac Aero Evacuation Systems Service Bulletin S.B. A320 
004-25-97, Revision 2, dated September 1, 2016.
    (4) The following service information was approved for IBR on 
December 31, 2012 (77 FR 70369, November 26, 2012).
    (i) Airbus Service Bulletin A320-25-1723, dated December 17, 
2010.
    (ii) Airbus Service Bulletin A320-25-1724, dated December 17, 
2010.
    (iii) Air Cruisers Service Bulletin S.B. A320 004-25-85, 
Revision 2, dated January 3, 2012.

[[Page 58107]]

    (iv) Air Cruisers Service Bulletin S.B. A320 004-25-56, dated 
November 12, 1999.
    (5) For service information identified in this AD, contact 
Airbus, Airworthiness Office--EIAS, 1 Rond Point Maurice Bellonte, 
31707 Blagnac Cedex, France; telephone +33 5 61 93 36 96; fax +33 5 
61 93 44 51; email [email protected]; Internet http://www.airbus.com. For Zodiac Aerospace service information identified 
in this AD, contact Air Cruisers, Cage Code 70167, 1747 State Route 
34, Wall Township, NJ 07727-3935; telephone: (732) 681-3527; 
Internet: http://www.zodiacaerospace.com.
    (6) You may view this service information at the FAA, Transport 
Standards Branch, 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 November 29, 2017.
Jeffrey E. Duven,
Director, System Oversight Division, Aircraft Certification Service.
[FR Doc. 2017-26363 Filed 12-8-17; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE 4910-13-P