Document ID: FAA-2012-0640-0001
Agency: faa
Document Type: Proposed Rule
Title: Airworthiness Directives: Airbus Airplanes
Posted Date: 2012-06-21T04:00Z

[Federal Register Volume 77, Number 120 (Thursday, June 21, 2012)]
[Proposed Rules]
[Pages 37344-37346]
From the Federal Register Online via the Government Printing Office [www.gpo.gov]
[FR Doc No: 2012-15175]

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DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION

Federal Aviation Administration

14 CFR Part 39

[Docket No. FAA-2012-0640; Directorate Identifier 2011-NM-203-AD]
RIN 2120-AA64

Airworthiness Directives; Airbus Airplanes

AGENCY: Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), DOT.

ACTION: Notice of proposed rulemaking (NPRM).

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SUMMARY: We propose to adopt a new airworthiness directive (AD) for 
certain Airbus Model A330-243, -243F, -341, -342, and -343 airplanes 
equipped with Rolls-Royce Trent 700 engines. This proposed AD was 
prompted by reports of extensive damage to engine air intake cowls as a 
result of acoustic panel collapse. This proposed AD would require 
repetitive inspections of the three inner acoustic panels of both 
engine air intake cowls to detect disbonding, and corrective actions if 
necessary. We are proposing this AD to detect and correct disbonding, 
which could result in detachment of the engine air intake cowl from the 
engine leading to ingestion of parts, which could cause failure of the 
engine, and consequent reduced controllability of the airplane.

DATES: We must receive comments on this proposed AD by August 6, 2012.

ADDRESSES: You may send comments 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 service information identified in this proposed 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 Rolls-Royce service information identified in this 
proposed AD, contact Rolls-Royce plc, P.O. Box 31, Derby, DE24 8BJ, 
England; telephone 011 44 1332 242424; fax 011 44 1332 249936; Internet 
https://www.aeromanager.com. You may review copies of the referenced 
service information at the FAA, Transport Airplane Directorate, 1601 
Lind Avenue SW., Renton, Washington. 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; 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 this proposed AD, 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.

FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Vladimir Ulyanov, Aerospace Engineer, 
International Branch, ANM-116, Transport Airplane Directorate, FAA, 
1601 Lind Avenue SW., Renton, Washington 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-2012-0640; 
Directorate Identifier 2011-NM-203-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://

[[Page 37345]]

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

    The European Aviation Safety Agency (EASA), which is the Technical 
Agent for the Member States of the European Community, has issued EASA 
Airworthiness Directive 2011-0173, dated September 13, 2011 (referred 
to after this as ``the MCAI''), to correct an unsafe condition for the 
specified products. The MCAI states:

    Two operators of A330 aeroplanes fitted with Rolls-Royce Trent 
700 engines reported finding extensive damage to engine air intake 
cowls as a result of acoustic panel collapse, most probably caused 
by panel disbonding.
    This condition, if not detected and corrected, could lead to the 
detachment of the engine air intake cowl from the engine, possibly 
resulting in ingestion of parts by, and consequence damage to, the 
engine, or injury to persons on the ground.
    For the reasons described above, this [EASA] AD requires 
repetitive special detailed inspections (tap tests) of the 3 inner 
acoustic panels of both engine air intake cowls to detect any 
disbonding and, depending on findings, applicable corrective 
actions.

    The unsafe condition is detachment of the engine air intake cowl 
from the engine, which could result in ingestion of parts causing 
failure of the engine, and consequent reduced controllability of the 
airplane. Corrective actions include repair or replacement of the 
affected engine air intake cowl. The compliance time for replacing an 
engine air intake cowl that is damaged beyond certain damage limits is 
before further flight. For damage that is below certain specified 
damage limits, the compliance time for repetitive inspections is 
between 10 flight cycles and 267 flight cycles, or the affected unit is 
specified to be repaired before further flight. You may obtain further 
information by examining the MCAI in the AD docket.

Relevant Service Information

    Airbus has issued Mandatory Service Bulletin A330-71-3024, Revision 
01, dated September 27, 2011. The actions described in this service 
information are intended to correct the unsafe condition identified in 
the MCAI.
    Rolls-Royce plc has issued Alert Service Bulletin RB. 211-71-AG419, 
including Appendix 1, dated May 10, 2011.

FAA's Determination and Requirements of This Proposed AD

    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 the same 
type design.

Costs of Compliance

    Based on the service information, we estimate that this proposed AD 
would affect about 22 products of U.S. registry. We also estimate that 
it would take about 20 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 the proposed 
AD on U.S. operators to be $37,400, or $1,700 per product.
    In addition, we estimate that any necessary follow-on actions would 
take up to 34 work-hours for a cost of up to $2,890 per product. We 
have received no definitive data that would enable us to provide parts 
cost estimates for the on-condition actions specified in this proposed 
AD. We have no way of determining the number of products that may need 
these actions.

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

List of Subjects in 14 CFR Part 39

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

The Proposed Amendment

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

PART 39--AIRWORTHINESS DIRECTIVES

    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]

    2. The FAA amends Sec.  39.13 by adding the following new AD:

Airbus: Docket No. FAA-2012-0640; Directorate Identifier 2011-NM-
203-AD.

(a) Comments Due Date

    We must receive comments by August 6, 2012.

(b) Affected ADs

    None.

(c) Applicability

    This AD applies to Airbus Model A330-243, -243F, -341, -342, and 
-343 airplanes; certificated in any category; all manufacturer 
serial numbers; equipped with Rolls-Royce Trent 700 engines.

(d) Subject

    Air Transport Association (ATA) of America Code 71, Powerplant.

(e) Reason

    This AD was prompted by reports of extensive damage to engine 
air intake cowls as a result of acoustic panel collapse. We are 
issuing this AD detect and correct disbonding, which could result in 
detachment of the engine air intake cowl from the engine leading to 
ingestion of parts,

[[Page 37346]]

which could cause failure of the engine, and consequent reduced 
controllability of the airplane.

 (f) Compliance

    You are responsible for having the actions required by this AD 
performed within the compliance times specified, unless the actions 
have already been done.

(g) Repetitive Detailed Inspection

    At the applicable compliance time specified in paragraphs (g)(1) 
and (g)(2) of this AD: Do a tap test inspection of the three inner 
acoustic panels of each engine air intake cowl for disbonding, in 
accordance with the Accomplishment Instructions of Airbus Mandatory 
Service Bulletin A330-71-3024, Revision 01, dated September 27, 
2011. Repeat the inspection thereafter at intervals not to exceed 24 
months, except as required by paragraphs (h) and (i) of this AD.
    (1) For an engine air intake cowl that has accumulated less than 
5,000 total flight cycles or less than 20,000 total flight hours, 
whichever occurs first, since its first installation on an airplane 
as of the effective date of this AD: Within 24 months after the 
engine air intake cowl has accumulated 5,000 total flight cycles or 
20,000 total flight hours, whichever occurs first, since its first 
installation on an airplane.
    (2) For an engine air intake cowl that has accumulated 5,000 or 
more total flight cycles or 20,000 or more total flight hours, 
whichever occurs first, since its first installation on an airplane 
as of the effective date of this AD: Within 24 months after the 
effective date of this AD.

(h) Inspection of Replaced Engine Intake Cowl

    For airplanes on which an engine air intake cowl is replaced 
after the effective date of this AD, at the applicable compliance 
time specified in paragraph (h)(1) or (h)(2) of this AD: Do a tap 
test inspection for disbonding of the three inner acoustic panels of 
the affected engine air intake cowl for disbonding, in accordance 
with the Accomplishment Instructions of Airbus Mandatory Service 
Bulletin A330-71-3024, Revision 01, dated September 27, 2011. Repeat 
the inspection thereafter at intervals not to exceed 24 months.
    (1) Within 24 months after the engine air intake cowl 
accumulates 5,000 total flight cycles or 20,000 total flight hours, 
whichever occurs first, since its first installation on any 
airplane, except as required by paragraph (h)(2) of this AD.
    (2) Before installation, if an engine air intake cowl has 
accumulated 5,000 or more total flight cycles or 20,000 or more 
total flight hours, whichever occurs first, since its first 
installation on any airplane, and which has not been inspected in 
accordance with the Accomplishment Instructions of Airbus Mandatory 
Service Bulletin A330-71-3024, Revision 01, dated September 27, 
2011, within the preceding 24 months.

(i) Corrective Actions

    (1) If any disbonding is found during any inspection required by 
this AD, and the findings are within the permitted allowable damage 
limit (ADL) specified in Rolls-Royce Alert Service Bulletin RB. 211-
71-AG419, including Appendix 1, dated May 10, 2011: Do the actions 
specified in paragraph (i)(1)(i), (i)(1)(ii), or (i)(1)(iii) of this 
AD.
    (i) Repeat the tap test inspection required by paragraph (g) of 
this AD at the applicable inspection interval specified in Rolls-
Royce Alert Service Bulletin RB. 211-71-AG419, including Appendix 1, 
dated May 10, 2011, until the actions required by paragraph 
(i)(1)(ii) or (i)(1)(iii) are accomplished.
    (ii) Repair the affected engine air intake cowl before further 
flight, in accordance with the Accomplishment Instructions of Rolls-
Royce Alert Service Bulletin RB. 211-71-AG419, including Appendix 1, 
dated May 10, 2011. Repeat the inspection specified in paragraph (g) 
of this AD thereafter at the applicable compliance time specified in 
paragraph (g) of this AD.
    (iii) Replace the affected engine air intake cowl before further 
flight, in accordance with the Accomplishment Instructions of Rolls-
Royce Alert Service Bulletin RB. 211-71-AG419, including Appendix 1, 
dated May 10, 2011. Repeat the inspection specified in paragraph (g) 
of this AD thereafter at the applicable compliance time specified in 
paragraph (g) of this AD.
    (2) If any disbonding is found during any inspection required by 
this AD, and the findings are not within the permitted ADL specified 
in Rolls-Royce Alert Service Bulletin RB. 211-71-AG419, including 
Appendix 1, dated May 10, 2011: Before further flight, replace the 
affected engine air intake cowl, in accordance with the 
Accomplishment Instructions of Rolls-Royce Alert Service Bulletin 
RB. 211-71-AG419, including Appendix 1, dated May 10, 2011. Repeat 
the inspection specified in paragraph (g) of this AD thereafter at 
the applicable compliance time specified in paragraph (g) of this 
AD.

(j) 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, 
Washington 98057-3356; telephone (425) 227-1138; fax (425) 227-1149. 
Information may be emailed to: 9-ANM-116-AMOC-REQUESTS@faa.gov. 
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.
    (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.

(k) Related Information

    (1) Refer to MCAI European Aviation Safety Agency, Airworthiness 
Directive 2011-0173, dated September 13, 2011, and the following 
service information for related information.
    (i) Airbus Mandatory Service Bulletin A330-71-3024, Revision 01, 
dated September 27, 2011.
    (ii) Rolls-Royce Alert Service Bulletin RB. 211-71-AG419, 
including Appendix 1, dated May 10, 2011.
    (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 Rolls-Royce service information 
identified in this AD, contact Rolls-Royce plc, P.O. Box 31, Derby, 
DE24 8BJ, England; telephone 011 44 1332 242424; fax 011 44 1332 
249936; Internet https://www.aeromanager.com. You may review copies 
of the referenced service information at the FAA, Transport Airplane 
Directorate, 1601 Lind Avenue SW., Renton, Washington. For 
information on the availability of this material at the FAA, call 
425-227-1221.

    Issued in Renton, Washington, on June 12, 2012.
Kalene C. Yanamura,
Acting Manager, Transport Airplane Directorate, Aircraft Certification 
Service.
[FR Doc. 2012-15175 Filed 6-20-12; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE 4910-13-P