Document ID: FAA-2008-0299-0004
Agency: faa
Document Type: Rule
Title: Airworthiness Directives; Gulfstream Aerospace LP Model Astra SPX, 1125 Westwind Astra, and Gulfstream 100 Airplanes
Posted Date: 2008-07-08T04:00Z

[Federal Register: July 8, 2008 (Volume 73, Number 131)]
[Rules and Regulations]               
[Page 38898-38900]
From the Federal Register Online via GPO Access [wais.access.gpo.gov]
[DOCID:fr08jy08-8]                         

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DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION

Federal Aviation Administration

14 CFR Part 39

[Docket No. FAA-2008-0299; Directorate Identifier 2007-NM-254-AD; 
Amendment 39-15593; AD 2008-13-30]
RIN 2120-AA64

 
Airworthiness Directives; Gulfstream Aerospace LP Model Astra 
SPX, 1125 Westwind Astra, and Gulfstream 100 Airplanes

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

ACTION: Final rule.

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SUMMARY: We are adopting a new airworthiness directive (AD) for the 
products listed above. This AD results from mandatory continuing 
airworthiness information (MCAI) originated by an aviation authority of 
another country to identify and correct an unsafe condition on an 
aviation product. The MCAI describes the unsafe condition as:

    Two of the fasteners used to attach the ``scissors'' to the 
horizontal and the vertical stabilizers were found broken during 
routine maintenance. The highest loads on the ``scissors'' occur 
when using high reverse thrust. Therefore, the reverse thrust must 
be limited to idle in order to keep the loads at a sufficiently low 
level to preclude any structural problem. * * *

Failure of the attachment fasteners could result in possible in-flight 
loss of a horizontal or vertical stabilizer and consequent loss of 
control of the airplane. We are issuing this AD to require actions to 
correct the unsafe condition on these products.

DATES: This AD becomes effective August 12, 2008.
    The Director of the Federal Register approved the incorporation by 
reference of certain publications listed in this AD as of August 12, 
2008.

ADDRESSES: You may examine the AD docket on the Internet at http://
www.regulations.gov or in person at the U.S. Department of 
Transportation, Docket Operations, M-30, West Building Ground Floor, 
Room W12-140, 1200 New Jersey Avenue, SE., Washington, DC.

FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Mike Borfitz, Aerospace Engineer, 
International Branch, ANM-116, FAA, Transport Airplane Directorate, 
1601 Lind Avenue, SW., Renton, Washington 98057-3356; telephone (425) 
227-2677; fax (425) 227-1149.

SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION:

Discussion

    We issued a notice of proposed rulemaking (NPRM) to amend 14 CFR 
part 39 to include an AD that would apply to the specified products. 
That NPRM was published in the Federal Register on March 14, 2008 (73 
FR 13800). That NPRM proposed to correct an unsafe condition for the 
specified products. The MCAI states:

    Two of the fasteners used to attach the ``scissors'' to the 
horizontal and the vertical stabilizers were found broken during 
routine maintenance. The highest loads on the ``scissors'' occur 
when using high reverse thrust. Therefore, the reverse thrust must 
be limited to idle in order to keep the loads at a sufficiently low 
level to preclude any structural problem. It was established that on 
model 1125 Astra, alternate fasteners of inferior strength were 
sometimes installed. When the originally specified fasteners are 
installed, the limitations on reverse thrust used may be lifted. For 
models Astra SPX and G100, however, the limitation remains in effect 
till further revision of this AD.

Failure of the attachment fasteners could result in possible in-flight 
loss of a horizontal or vertical stabilizer and consequent loss of 
control of the airplane. Corrective actions include revising the 
airplane flight manual (AFM); inspections for damage of the bolts and 
replacing the bolt, if necessary; and doing related investigative and 
other corrective actions (eddy current inspection for bolt hole 
diameter and damage, contact Gulfstream for repair and do repair). You 
may obtain further information by examining the MCAI in the AD docket.

Comments

    We gave the public the opportunity to participate in developing 
this AD. We received no comments on the NPRM or on the determination of 
the cost to the public.

Conclusion

    We reviewed the available data and determined that air safety and 
the public interest require adopting the AD as proposed.

Differences Between This AD and the MCAI or Service Information

    We have reviewed the MCAI and related service information and, in 
general, agree with their substance. But we might have found it 
necessary to use different words from those in the MCAI to ensure the 
AD is clear for U.S. operators and is enforceable. In making these 
changes, we do not intend to differ substantively from the information 
provided in the MCAI and related service information.
    We might also have required different actions in this AD from those 
in the MCAI in order to follow our FAA policies. Any such differences 
are highlighted in a NOTE within the AD.

Costs of Compliance

    We estimate that this AD will affect about 129 products of U.S. 
registry. We also estimate that it will take about 10

[[Page 38899]]

work-hours per product to comply with the basic requirements of this 
AD. The average labor rate is $80 per work-hour. Required parts will 
cost about $33 per product. Where the service information lists 
required parts costs that are covered under warranty, we have assumed 
that there will be no charge for these parts. As we do not control 
warranty coverage for affected parties, some parties may incur costs 
higher than estimated here. Based on these figures, we estimate the 
cost of this AD to the U.S. operators to be $107,457, or $833 per 
product.

Authority for This Rulemaking

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

Regulatory Findings

    We determined that this 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 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); 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.
    We prepared a regulatory evaluation of the estimated costs to 
comply with this AD and placed it in the AD docket.

Examining the AD Docket

    You may examine the AD docket on the Internet at http://
www.regulations.gov; or in person at the Docket Operations office 
between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m., Monday through Friday, except Federal 
holidays. The AD docket contains the NPRM, the regulatory evaluation, 
any comments received, and other information. The street address for 
the Docket Operations office (telephone (800) 647-5527) is in the 
ADDRESSES section. Comments will be available in the AD docket shortly 
after receipt.

List of Subjects in 14 CFR Part 39

    Air transportation, Aircraft, Aviation safety, Incorporation by 
reference, Safety.

Adoption of the Amendment

0
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 adding the following new AD:

2008-13-30 Gulfstream Aerospace LP (Formerly Israel Aircraft 
Industries, Ltd.): Amendment 39-15593. Docket No. FAA-2008-0299; 
Directorate Identifier 2007-NM-254-AD.

Effective Date

    (a) This airworthiness directive (AD) becomes effective August 
12, 2008.

Affected ADs

    (b) None.

Applicability

    (c) This AD applies to Gulfstream Aerospace LP Model Astra SPX, 
1125 Westwind Astra, and Gulfstream 100 airplanes; certificated in 
any category; serial numbers 004 through 158.

Subject

    (d) Air Transport Association (ATA) of America Code 55: 
Stabilizers.

Reason

    (e) The mandatory continuing airworthiness information (MCAI) 
states:

    Two of the fasteners used to attach the ``scissors'' to the 
horizontal and the vertical stabilizers were found broken during 
routine maintenance. The highest loads on the ``scissors'' occur 
when using high reverse thrust. Therefore, the reverse thrust must 
be limited to idle in order to keep the loads at a sufficiently low 
level to preclude any structural problem. It was established that on 
model 1125 Astra, alternate fasteners of inferior strength were 
sometimes installed. When the originally specified fasteners are 
installed, the limitations on reverse thrust used may be lifted. For 
models Astra SPX and G100, however, the limitation remains in effect 
till further revision of this AD.

Failure of the attachment fasteners could result in possible in-
flight loss of a horizontal or vertical stabilizer and consequent 
loss of control of the airplane. Corrective actions include revising 
the airplane flight manual (AFM); inspections for damage of the 
bolts and replacing the bolt, if necessary; and doing related 
investigative and other corrective actions (eddy current inspection 
for bolt hole diameter and damage, contact Gulfstream for repair and 
do repair).

Actions and Compliance

    (f) Unless already done, do the following actions.
    (1) Within 30 days after the effective date of this AD: Revise 
the Limitations section of the AFM by incorporating the information 
in the applicable Israel Aircraft Industries (Gulfstream) temporary 
revisions (TR): Astra AFM TR 15; Astra SPX AFM TR 8; or Gulfstream 
100 AFM TR 1; all dated June 14, 2007; into the Limitations section 
of the Gulfstream Astra, Astra SPX, or Gulfstream 100 AFM, as 
applicable. The TRs limit the normal use of reverse thrust to idle.

    Note 1: The actions required by paragraph (f) of this AD may be 
done by inserting a copy of Israel Aircraft Industries (Gulfstream) 
Astra AFM TR 15; Astra SPX AFM TR 8; or Gulfstream 100 AFM TR 1; all 
dated June 14, 2007; as applicable; into the Limitations section of 
the Gulfstream Astra, Astra SPX, or Gulfstream 100 AFM, as 
applicable. When the applicable TR has been included in the general 
revisions of the applicable AFM, the general revisions may be 
inserted in the AFM.

    (2) For all airplanes: Within 25 flight hours or 30 days after 
the effective date of this AD, whichever comes first, do the 
inspections specified in paragraphs (f)(2)(i) and (f)(2)(ii) of this 
AD in accordance with Part A of Gulfstream Alert Service Bulletin 
100-55A-293, dated June 22, 2007.
    (i) Visually inspect the attachment bolts and replace any 
damaged bolt before further flight.
    (ii) Perform a detailed visual inspection of fittings with part 
number (P/N) 25W357222-501-51, and fillers with P/N 25W4011001-003, 
and surrounding structure for damage. If blind bolts with P/N 
MS21141U0612 are installed and no damage is found, no further action 
is required. If any damage is found, before further flight, repair 
using a method approved in accordance with the procedures specified 
in paragraph (g)(2) of this AD. If any bolt with P/N AN173C11 is 
installed and damage is found, replace the bolt and do all related 
investigative and applicable corrective actions before further 
flight.
    (3) For Model 1125 Westwind Astra airplanes (serial numbers 004, 
011 through 072 inclusive, and 073 through 078 inclusive): Within 12 
months after the effective date of this AD, replace all P/N AN173C11 
bolts, and do all related investigative and applicable corrective

[[Page 38900]]

actions before further flight, as detailed in Part B of Gulfstream 
Alert Service Bulletin 100-55A-293, dated June 22, 2007. 
Accomplishment of Part B of the alert service bulletin constitutes 
terminating action for paragraph (f)(1) of this AD. Israel Aircraft 
Industries (Gulfstream) TR 15 may be deleted and unlimited use of 
reverse thrust is allowed per the Gulfstream Astra AFM.

    Note 2: Reverse thrust limitations remain in effect for Model 
Astra SPX and Gulfstream 100 airplanes.

FAA AD Differences

    Note 3: This AD differs from the MCAI and/or service information 
as follows:
    Compliance Time: The compliance time required by the MCAI or 
service information for performing the AFM revision is immediate on 
receipt of this AD; however, to avoid inadvertently grounding 
airplanes, this AD requires performing the AFM revision within 30 
days after the effective date of this AD.

Other FAA AD Provisions

    (g) 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. Send information to ATTN: Mike 
Borfitz, Aerospace Engineer, International Branch, ANM-116, FAA, 
Transport Airplane Directorate, 1601 Lind Avenue, SW., Renton, 
Washington 98057-3356; telephone (425) 227-2677; fax (425) 227-1149. 
Before using any approved AMOC on any airplane to which the AMOC 
applies, notify your appropriate principal inspector (PI) in the FAA 
Flight Standards District Office (FSDO), or lacking a PI, your local 
FSDO.
    (2) Airworthy Product: For any requirement in this AD to obtain 
corrective actions from a manufacturer or other source, use these 
actions if they are FAA-approved. Corrective actions are considered 
FAA-approved if they are approved by the State of Design Authority 
(or their delegated agent). You are required to assure the product 
is airworthy before it is returned to service.
    (3) Reporting Requirements: For any reporting requirement in 
this AD, under the provisions of the Paperwork Reduction Act, the 
Office of Management and Budget (OMB) has approved the information 
collection requirements and has assigned OMB Control Number 2120-
0056.

Related Information

    (h) Refer to MCAI Israeli Airworthiness Directive 55-07-06-07R1, 
dated June 26, 2007; Gulfstream Alert Service Bulletin 100-55A-293, 
dated June 22, 2007; and Israel Aircraft Industries (Gulfstream) 
Astra SPX AFM TR 8, Astra AFM TR 15, and Gulfstream 100 AFM TR 1, 
all dated June 14, 2007; for related information.

Material Incorporated by Reference

    (i) You must use Gulfstream Alert Service Bulletin 100-55A-293, 
dated June 22, 2007, and the temporary revisions specified in Table 
1 of this AD, as applicable, to do the actions required by this AD, 
unless the AD specifies otherwise.
    (1) The Director of the Federal Register approved the 
incorporation by reference of this service information under 5 
U.S.C. 552(a) and 1 CFR part 51.
    (2) For service information identified in this AD, contact 
Gulfstream Aerospace Corporation, P.O. Box 2206, Mail Station D-25, 
Savannah, Georgia 31402-2206.
    (3) You may review copies at the FAA, Transport Airplane 
Directorate, 1601 Lind Avenue, SW., Renton, Washington; or 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.

                                                 Table 1.--Temporary Revisions Incorporated by Reference
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 Israel Aircraft Industries  (Gulfstream)                   Dated                                                  To the
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Astra SPX Temporary Revision 8...........  June 14, 2007..........................  Gulfstream Astra SPX Airplane Flight Manual.
Astra Temporary Revision 15..............  June 14, 2007..........................  Gulfstream Astra Airplane Flight Manual.
Gulfstream 100 Temporary Revision 1......  June 14, 2007..........................  Gulfstream 100 Airplane Flight Manual.
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    Issued in Renton, Washington, on June 6, 2008.
Michael Kaszycki,
Acting Manager, Transport Airplane Directorate, Aircraft Certification 
Service.
[FR Doc. E8-14469 Filed 7-7-08; 8:45 am]

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