
[Federal Register Volume 80, Number 91 (Tuesday, May 12, 2015)]
[Rules and Regulations]
[Pages 27081-27086]
From the Federal Register Online via the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]
[FR Doc No: 2015-09467]


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DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION

Federal Aviation Administration

14 CFR Part 39

[Docket No. FAA-2012-1107; Directorate Identifier 2011-NM-216-AD; 
Amendment 39-18143; AD 2015-08-07]
RIN 2120-AA64


Airworthiness Directives; Zodiac Aerotechnics (Formerly 
Intertechnique Aircraft Systems) Oxygen Mask Regulators

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 certain 
Zodiac Aerotechnics (formerly Intertechnique Aircraft Systems) oxygen

[[Page 27082]]

mask regulators. This AD was prompted by a report of a malfunctioning 
mask having an inflatable harness with a high premature rupture rate 
due to defective silicon. This AD requires inspecting and replacing 
defective harnesses with new or modified serviceable units. We are 
issuing this AD to detect and correct defective harnesses, which could 
lead, in case of a sudden depressurization event, to a harness rupture, 
thereby providing inadequate protection against hypoxia and possibly 
resulting in unconsciousness of the affected flightcrew member and 
consequent reduced control of the airplane.

DATES: This AD becomes effective June 16, 2015.
    The Director of the Federal Register approved the incorporation by 
reference of certain publications listed in this AD as of June 16, 
2015.

ADDRESSES: You may examine the AD docket on the Internet at http://www.regulations.gov/#!docketDetail;D=FAA-2012-1107; or in person at the 
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.
    For Zodiac Aerospace service information identified in this AD, 
contact Zodiac Services, Technical Publication Department, Zodiac 
Aerotechnics, Oxygen Systems Europe, 61 Rue Pierre Curie-CS20001, 78373 
Plaisir Cedex, France; phone: (33) 01 61 34 23 23; fax: (33) 01 30 55 
71 61; email: yann.laine@zodiacaerospace.com; Internet: 
www.services.zodiacaerospace.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. It is also available on the 
Internet at http://www.regulations.gov by searching for and locating 
Docket No. FAA-2012-1107.

FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Ian Lucas, Aerospace Engineer, Boston 
Aircraft Certification Office (ACO) ANE-150, FAA, Engine and Propeller 
Directorate, 12 New England Executive Park, Burlington, MA 01803; 
phone: 781-238-7757; fax: 781-238-7170; email: ian.lucas@faa.gov.

SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION:

Discussion

    We issued a notice of proposed rulemaking (NPRM) to amend 14 CFR 
part 39 by adding an AD that would apply to certain Zodiac Aerotechnics 
(formerly Intertechnique Aircraft Systems) oxygen mask regulators. The 
NPRM published in the Federal Register on October 25, 2012 (77 FR 
65148).
    The European Aviation Safety Agency (EASA), which is the Technical 
Agent for the Member States of the European Union, has issued EASA 
Airworthiness Directive 2011-0090R1, dated July 13, 2011 (referred to 
after this as the Mandatory Continuing Airworthiness Information, or 
``the MCAI''), to detect and correct an unsafe condition on certain 
Zodiac Aerotechnics (formerly Intertechnique Aircraft Systems) oxygen 
mask regulators. The MCAI states:

    A malfunction of a quick donning mask was reported to [Zodiac 
Aerotechnics (formerly] Intertechnique [Aircraft Systems], who 
initiated an investigation in order to detect the root cause and the 
failure mode. Despite the fact that the analysis did not lead to any 
final conclusion, discrete suspected silicon batches have been 
identified which have shown an unusually high premature rupture 
rate.
    Some of the affected harnesses are known to have been delivered 
as spares. Consequently, an inflatable harness belonging to one of 
the suspect batches may have become installed on an Oxygen Mask 
Regulator, the serial number (s/n) or [part number] P/N of which is 
not identified in Appendix II of Intertechnique [Zodiac Aerospace] 
Service Bulletin (SB) MXH-35-240.
    This fact widens the Applicability of this [EASA] AD to extend 
beyond the individual Oxygen Mask Regulators identified by s/n and 
P/N in Appendix II of the SB.
    This condition, if not detected and corrected, could lead, in 
case of a sudden depressurization event, to a harness rupture, 
thereby providing inadequate protection against hypoxia of the 
affected flight crew member, possibly resulting in unconsciousness 
and consequent reduced control of the aeroplane.
    For the reasons described above, this [EASA] AD requires the 
identification and replacement of all potentially defective 
harnesses with serviceable units.
    Note 1: The affected batches were installed on harnesses 
manufactured between December 2008 and August 2010, having dates 
codes 0850S (week 50 of 2008) through 1031S (week 31 of 2010).
    Note 2: Harness assemblies that do not have a batch code were 
manufactured before week 33 of 2008 and are not affected by this 
unsafe condition.
    This [EASA] AD has been revised to correct a typographical error 
in the Applicability, which inadvertently referred to P/N MA10-12 
masks, whereas in fact, all P/N MA10 series could have an affected 
harness installed. In addition, this revised [EASA] AD corrects Note 
2 (above), which confused harness manufacturing date codes with the 
affected harnesses batch codes.
    This [EASA] AD is also revised to make reference to the latest 
revisions of the referenced Intertechnique [Zodiac Aerospace] 
service publications which identify by s/n and P/N, in Appendix II 
of the SB, more oxygen mask regulators that are known or suspected 
to have an affected harness installed. Finally, this [EASA] AD is 
revised to add a Note to the Required Actions section, to stress the 
fact that other oxygen mask regulators could be affected, in 
addition to those listed in Appendix II of the SB.

    You may examine the MCAI in the AD docket on the Internet at http://www.regulations.gov/#!documentDetail;D=FAA-2012-1107-0003.

Actions Since the NPRM (77 FR 65148, October 25, 2012) was Issued

    We have reviewed Zodiac Aerospace Service Bulletin MXH-35-241, 
Revision 3, dated June 23, 2011. The NPRM referenced Zodiac Aerospace 
(formerly Intertechnique Aircraft Systems) Service Bulletin MXH-35-241, 
Revision 2, dated May 19, 2011, as one of the appropriate sources of 
service information for the required actions. Zodiac Aerospace Service 
Bulletin MXH-35-241, Revision 3, dated June 23, 2011, corrected 
typographical errors and updated a flow chart, but specifies the same 
procedures as the earlier revision.
    We have revised the references in paragraphs (g) and (h) of this AD 
to refer to Zodiac Aerospace Service Bulletin MXH-35-241, Revision 3, 
dated June 23, 2011, as one of the appropriate sources of service 
information for the required actions. We have also added Zodiac 
Aerospace Service Bulletin MXH-35-241, Revision 2, dated May 19, 2011, 
to paragraph (l) of this AD to allow credit for previous actions done 
using that service information.

Comments

    We gave the public the opportunity to participate in developing 
this AD. The following presents the comments received on the NPRM (77 
FR 65148, October 25, 2012) and the FAA's response to each comment.

Request To Revise Service Information Contact

    Zodiac Aerotechnics (formerly Intertechnique Aircraft Systems) 
requested revising the contact address, telephone number, and Web site 
in paragraph (n)(2) of the NPRM (77 FR 65148, October 25, 2012) to read 
``61 Rue Pierre Curie CS20001,'' and ``telephone: (33) 1 61 34 23 23,'' 
and ``www.services.zodiacaerospace.com.''
    We have revised this AD to identify the legal name of the 
manufacturer as published in the most recent technical service order 
for crewmember demand oxygen masks. Intertechnique Aircraft

[[Page 27083]]

Systems changed its legal name to Zodiac Aerotechnics; therefore we 
revised the manufacturer name in the SUMMARY and ADDRESSES sections, 
and ``Applicability'' and ``Material Incorporated by Reference'' 
paragraphs of this AD. We have changed this contact information in the 
ADDRESSES section of this final rule and paragraph (o)(3) of this AD 
accordingly.

Request To Withdraw NPRM (77 FR 65148, October 25, 2012) or Revise 
Compliance Time

    American Airlines (American) requested that we withdraw the NPRM 
(77 FR 65148, October 25, 2012). Based on Boeing's analysis referenced 
in a Boeing Service Letter, American disagreed with the need for the 
NPRM. American stated that the concern in the NPRM has been reviewed by 
Boeing for potential safety and was found not to be safety-based on a 
numerical risk assessment. American stated that if we do not withdraw 
the NPRM, it requests that we extend the threshold specified in the 
NPRM to a minimum of 3 years.
    We do not agree with the commenter's request to withdraw the NPRM 
(77 FR 65148, October 25, 2012) or extend the compliance time. We agree 
with the EASA's finding of an unsafe condition, as explained in EASA AD 
2011-0090R1, dated July 13, 2011, as well as the compliance time for 
taking corrective action that is specified in the EASA AD 2011-0090R1. 
However, affected operators may request approval of an alternative 
method of compliance (AMOC) for an extension of the compliance time for 
the inspection under the provisions of paragraph (m) of this AD by 
submitting data substantiating that the change would provide an 
acceptable level of safety. We have not changed this AD in this regard.

Request To Clarify Affected Airplanes for Inspection and Replacement 
Requirements

    Horizon Air requested that paragraphs (g)(1), (g)(2), (h), and (k) 
of the NPRM (77 FR 65148, October 25, 2012) be revised for clarity. 
Horizon stated the NPRM appears to address only the ``as delivered'' 
condition of the airplanes. Horizon indicated the NPRM stated that 
Zodiac Aerospace Service Bulletin MXH-35-240, Revision 7, dated 
September 1, 2011, applies ``for all aircraft other than Bombardier 
airplanes,'' and Zodiac Aerospace Service Bulletin MXH-35-241, Revision 
3, dated June 23, 2011, applies ``for Bombardier airplanes.'' Horizon 
stated this is incorrect since Zodiac Aerospace Service Bulletin MXH-
35-240, Revision 7, dated September 1, 2011, could apply to Bombardier 
airplanes if the crew oxygen masks delivered with the airplanes were 
removed and replaced with masks listed in Zodiac Aerospace Service 
Bulletin MXH-35-240, Revision 7, dated September 1, 2011.
    We acknowledge the commenter's concern that it may be possible that 
a harness on a Bombardier airplane may be replaced with one listed in 
Appendix I of Zodiac Service Bulletin MXH-35-240, Revision 7, dated 
September 1, 2011, during the maintenance of the airplane. However, 
this AD corresponds to EASA AD 2011-0090R1, dated July 13, 2011, which 
specifies using Zodiac Aerospace Service Bulletin MXH-35-241, Revision 
3, dated June 23, 2011, for Bombardier airplanes. The suggested changes 
would alter the actions currently proposed in the NPRM (77 FR 65148, 
October 25, 2012), so additional rulemaking would be required.
    We find that delaying this action would be inappropriate in light 
of the identified unsafe condition. Therefore, we have not changed this 
AD regarding this issue. However, we might consider further rulemaking 
if EASA issues additional rulemaking or we determine that an additional 
inspection of Bombardier airplanes for harnesses identified in Appendix 
I of Zodiac Service Bulletin MXH-35-240, Revision 7, dated September 1, 
2011, is necessary.

Request To Revise Regulatory Paragraph into a Note

    United Airlines (United) requested that we change paragraph (g)(2) 
of the NPRM (77 FR 65148, October 25, 2012) to a note. United contends 
that paragraph (g)(2) of the NPRM is worded as a clarification as to 
whether an operator can use Appendix II of Zodiac Service Bulletin MXH 
35 240, Revision 7, dated September 1, 2011; or Appendix II of Zodiac 
Service Bulletin MXH 35 241, Revision 3, dated June 23, 2011; alone in 
demonstrating compliance to the AD.
    We agree that the wording in paragraph (g)(2) of the NPRM (77 FR 
65148, October 25, 2012) is informational and is meant to clarify that 
using Appendix II of Zodiac Service Bulletin MXH 35 241, Revision 3, 
dated June 23, 2011 alone is not allowed. We have re-designated 
paragraph (g)(2) of the NPRM as Note 1 to paragraph (g) of this AD. We 
have also re-designated paragraph (g)(1) of the NPRM as paragraph (g) 
of this AD.

Request To Revise Compliance Time

    Air Wisconsin Airlines (Air Wisconsin) requested that the phrase 
``Before further flight'' specified in paragraph (h) of the NPRM (77 FR 
65148, dated October 25, 2012) be replaced using a compliance time of 
``Within 24 months after the effective date of this AD,'' to match the 
compliance time specified in paragraph (g)(1) of the NPRM. Air 
Wisconsin stated paragraph (g)(1) of the NPRM would require an 
inspection to determine if the part number and batch number of the 
inflatable harness are listed in Appendix I of Zodiac Service Bulletin 
MXH-35-241, Revision 2, dated May 19, 2011.
    We agree with the commenter's request because the intent of this 
final rule is to replace affected harnesses within a compliance time of 
24 months. We have changed the compliance time in paragraph (h) of this 
AD to read, ``Within 24 months after the effective date of this AD.''

Request To Revise Exception Paragraph to Include Date of Manufacture 
(DMF) Codes

    American requested that the list of excluded part numbers specified 
by paragraph 1.A.(4) of Zodiac Service Bulletin MXH-35-240, Revision 7, 
dated September 1, 2011, be included in paragraph (i) of the NPRM (77 
FR 65148, October 25, 2012), for clarity.
    We agree with the commenter's request to include the excluded part 
numbers because the list of excluded oxygen mask regulators specified 
by paragraph 1.A.(4), ``Not Concerned Equipment,'' of Zodiac Service 
Bulletin MXH-35-240, Revision 7, dated September 1, 2011, is not 
directly captured in the content of this AD. We have changed paragraph 
(i) of this AD to include those part numbers listed in paragraph 
1.A.(4), ``Not Concerned Equipment,'' of Zodiac Service Bulletin MXH-
35-240, Revision 7, dated September 1, 2011.

Request To Revise Applicability

    American requested that paragraph (c) of the NPRM (77 FR 65148, 
October 25, 2012) be revised to state the AD is applicable only to 
harnesses having DMF codes between (0850S) and (1031S). American 
explained that the corresponding EASA AD 2011-0090R1, dated July 13, 
2011, requires the identification and replacement of ``all potentially 
defective harnesses.'' American explained that specifying which 
harnesses had affected DMF codes would provide clarity.
    We disagree with the commenter's request to revise the 
applicability specified in paragraph (c) of this AD. The applicability 
specified in paragraph (c) of this AD identifies affected oxygen

[[Page 27084]]

mask regulators since harnesses can be rotated and replaced on the 
oxygen mask regulators. We also note that DMF codes apply to the 
regulators and not the harnesses.
    However, we note that paragraph (i) of this AD does clarify which 
harnesses are affected by the inspection and replacement requirements 
of paragraphs (g) and (h) of this AD. Paragraph (i) of this AD also 
states that oxygen mask regulators having certain DMF codes are 
excluded from the inspection and replacement requirements of paragraphs 
(g) and (h) of this AD. No change has been made to this AD in this 
regard.

Request To Clarify Affected Oxygen Mask Regulators

    United requested we revise paragraph (i) of the NPRM (77 FR 65148, 
October 25, 2012) by adding the words ``having a part number and batch 
number identified in Appendix I of the service information specified in 
paragraph (i)(1) or (i)(2) of this AD'' to clarify which masks are 
subject to inspection and replacement requirements. United also 
requested that we revise paragraph (i) of the NPRM by specifying that 
the part number and batch number are those of the ``harness assembly,'' 
and the date of manufacturing is that of the ``mask assembly.''
    We agree with the commenter's request for the reasons provided by 
the commenter. We have revised paragraph (i) of this AD accordingly.

Request To Carry Forward Exceptions and Allow Original Equipment 
Manufacturer (OEM) Date in Lieu of DMF Code

    Boeing requested that we revise the NPRM (77 FR 65148, October 25, 
2012) to allow the exceptions of paragraph (i) of the NPRM to carry 
forward into paragraph (k) of the NPRM for the parts installation 
prohibition for new production aircraft. Boeing also requested that we 
revise the NPRM to allow the date on which an oxygen mask was serviced 
for remanufacture or overhaul by the OEM to replace the date of 
manufacture of the original mask. Boeing contends that, where 
inflatable harnesses have been serviced, the OEM meets all existing AD 
requirements.
    We disagree with both requests for allowing the exceptions to carry 
forward and to allow the date of service to replace the date of 
manufacture because the root cause of the defective oxygen masks is a 
high premature rupture rate due to defective silicon. This 
manufacturing defect affected a specific manufacturing batch. Thus, it 
is possible that a mask overhaul may not necessarily address the root 
cause or unsafe condition. Also, since oxygen mask regulators are 
rotable parts, it is possible that an oxygen mask regulator can be 
rotated onto a new production aircraft once it is in service. No change 
has been made to this AD in this regard.

Request To Revise Wording in Paragraph (k) of the NPRM (77 FR 65148, 
October 25, 2012)

    American and Horizon Air requested we revise paragraph (k) of the 
NPRM (77 FR 65148, October 25, 2012) by replacing the word ``install'' 
with the word ``replace.'' American stated if the oxygen mask/regulator 
is removed to facilitate maintenance prior to the compliance date of 
the AD, the NPRM, as written, would prohibit operators from re-
installing the crew oxygen mask/regulator and would require immediate 
installation of a new or re-identified harness in order to comply with 
the AD. Horizon stated that the use of the word ``install'' effectively 
reduces the compliance time to perform the inspection and replacement 
specified by paragraphs (g) and (h) of the NPRM. American stated this 
clarification would allow operators adequate time to remove and re-
install a crew oxygen mask/regulator to facilitate maintenance prior to 
the compliance date.
    United stated that, while paragraph (h) of the NPRM (77 FR 65148, 
October 25, 2012) clearly stated the replacement requirement, United 
had concerns regarding Zodiac Service Bulletin MXH-35-240, Revision 7, 
dated September 1, 2011. We contacted United for clarification. Where 
paragraph 3.C. of the Accomplishment Instructions of Zodiac Service 
Bulletin MXH-35-240, Revision 7, dated September 1, 2011, uses the word 
``modification,'' United suggested using the word ``replacement.''
    We agree to provide clarification. The intent of the ``Parts 
Installation Prohibition'' specified in paragraph (k) of this AD is 
that operators replace parts with good parts rather than bad parts. 
Although the words ``install,'' and ``modification'' are generally 
considered to be broader than the word ``replace,'' for purposes of 
this AD, these words should be interpreted as meaning ``replace'' while 
remaining within the spirit and intent of the AD. Therefore, simply 
reinstalling the same part during maintenance activities is acceptable 
for compliance with the requirements of paragraph (k) of this AD for 
that reinstallation. However, if an inflatable harness has a part 
number and batch number identified as being from a defective batch 
during the inspection required by paragraph (g) of this AD, paragraph 
(h) of this AD requires replacement before further flight. We have not 
changed the final rule regarding this issue.

Request To Reference Flow Chart Contained in Service Information

    Boeing requested that paragraph (k) of the NPRM (77 FR 65148, 
October 25, 2012) be revised by adding the words ``This determination 
can be made by following the flow chart contained in paragraph 3., 
``Accomplishment Instructions,'' of Zodiac Service Bulletin MXH-35-240, 
Revision 7, dated September 1, 2011.'' Boeing stated that, by adding 
these words, the NPRM would match EASA AD 2011-0090 R1, dated July 13, 
2011. Boeing stated the flow chart includes an acceptance decision 
based on the letter ``I'' written on the bushing of the inflatable 
harness of the crew oxygen mask to indicate it has been inspected using 
this service information.
    We agree with the commenter's request because using the flow chart 
in paragraph 3., ``Accomplishment Instructions,'' of Zodiac Service 
Bulletin MXH-35-240, Revision 7, dated September 1, 2011, reflects the 
current method to determine whether a mask needs to be replaced. We 
have revised paragraph (k) of this AD by referring to the flow chart 
contained in paragraph 3., ``Accomplishment Instructions,'' of Zodiac 
Aerospace Service Bulletin MXH-35-240, Revision 7, dated September 1, 
2011, to determine if parts are not listed in Appendix I of Zodiac 
Aerospace Service Bulletin MXH-35-240, Revision 7, dated September 1, 
2011.
    We have also removed the reference to Zodiac Aerospace Service 
Bulletin MXH-35-241, Revision 2, dated May 19, 2011, from paragraph (k) 
of the NPRM (77 FR 65148, October 25, 2012), in order to match EASA AD 
2011-0090 R1, dated July 13, 2011. For all airplanes, the parts listed 
in Appendix I of Zodiac Aerospace Service Bulletin MXH-35-240, Revision 
7, dated September 1, 2011, may not be installed.

Removal of ``Airworthy Product'' Paragraph from this AD

    We have removed paragraph (m)(2) of the NPRM (77 FR 65148, October 
25, 2012) since the airworthy product statement regarding contacting 
the manufacturer or other sources is unnecessary in this AD. We 
redesignated paragraph (m)(1) as paragraph (m) of this AD.

Conclusion

    We reviewed the relevant data, considered the comments received, 
and determined that air safety and the

[[Page 27085]]

public interest require adopting this AD with the changes described 
previously and minor editorial changes. We have determined that these 
minor changes:
     Are consistent with the intent that was proposed in the 
NPRM (77 FR 65148, October 25, 2012) for correcting the unsafe 
condition; and
     Do not add any additional burden upon the public than was 
already proposed in the NPRM (77 FR 65148, October 25, 2012).
    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

    Zodiac Aerospace has issued Service Bulletin MXH-35-240, Revision 
7, dated September 1, 2011; and Service Bulletin MXH-35-241, Revision 
3, dated June 23, 2011. The service information describes procedures 
for inspecting and replacing defective harnesses with new or modified 
serviceable units. This service information is reasonably available at 
http://www.regulations.gov by searching for and locating Docket No. 
FAA-2012-1107. Or see ADDRESSES for other ways to access this service 
information.

Costs of Compliance

    We estimate that this AD affects 5,500 airplanes of U.S. registry.
    We also estimate that it will take about 1 work-hour per product to 
comply with the basic requirements of this AD. The average labor rate 
is $85 per work-hour. Required parts will cost $0 per product. Based on 
these figures, we estimate the cost of this AD on U.S. operators to be 
$467,500, or $85 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 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.

Examining the AD Docket

    You may examine the AD docket on the Internet at http://www.regulations.gov/#!docketDetail;D=FAA-2012-1107; 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 street address for the Docket Operations office (telephone 800-647-
5527) is in the ADDRESSES section.

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 adding the following new airworthiness 
directive (AD):

2015-08-07 Zodiac Aerotechnics (formerly Intertechnique Aircraft 
Systems): Amendment 39-18143. Docket No. FAA-2012-1107; Directorate 
Identifier 2011-NM-216-AD.

(a) Effective Date

    This AD becomes effective June 16, 2015.

(b) Affected ADs

    None.

(c) Applicability

    This AD applies to Zodiac Aerotechnics (formerly Intertechnique 
Aircraft Systems) flightcrew oxygen mask regulators, all part number 
(P/N) MA10, MC10, MC20, MF10, MF20, MLC20, MLD20, MRA005, MRA022, 
and MRA023 series; certificated in any category; installed on, but 
not limited to, airplanes manufactured by Airbus, ATR, BAE Systems 
(Type Certificate previously held by British Aerospace), Boeing, 
Bombardier (Type Certificate previously held by Canadair, De 
Havilland Canada), Cessna, Dassault, EADS CASA, EMBRAER, Gulfstream, 
Hawker Beechcraft (Type Certificate previously held by Raytheon, 
Beech), Israel Aircraft Industries (IAI), McDonnell Douglas, 
Piaggio, Pilatus, Piper, and SOCATA.

(d) Subject

    Air Transport Association (ATA) of America Code 35, Oxygen.

(e) Reason

    This AD was prompted by a report of a malfunctioning mask having 
an inflatable harness with a high premature rupture rate due to 
defective silicon. We are issuing this AD to detect and correct 
defective harnesses, which could lead, in case of a sudden 
depressurization event, to a harness rupture, thereby providing 
inadequate protection against hypoxia and possibly resulting in 
unconsciousness of the affected flightcrew member and consequent 
reduced control 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) Inspection

    Except as provided by paragraph (i) of this AD: Within 24 months 
after the effective date of this AD, inspect the inflatable harness 
fitted to each flightcrew oxygen mask regulator to determine if the 
inflatable harness is installed with a part number and a batch 
number identified in Appendix I of Zodiac Aerospace Service Bulletin 
MXH-35-240, Revision 7, dated September 1, 2011 (for all airplanes 
other than Bombardier airplanes); or Appendix I of Zodiac Aerospace 
Service Bulletin MXH-35-241, Revision 3, dated June 23, 2011 (for 
Bombardier airplanes).

    Note 1 to paragraph (g) of this AD: Referring only to Appendix 
II of Zodiac Aerospace Service Bulletin MXH-35-240, Revision 7, 
dated September 1, 2011; or Appendix II of Zodiac Aerospace Service 
Bulletin MXH-35-241, Revision 3, dated June 23, 2011; to identify a 
specific oxygen mask regulator is insufficient to demonstrate that 
the inflatable harness fitted to that oxygen mask regulator is not 
listed in Appendix I of Zodiac Aerospace Service

[[Page 27086]]

Bulletin MXH-35-240, Revision 7, dated September 1, 2011; or 
Appendix I of Zodiac Aerospace Service Bulletin MXH-35-241, Revision 
3, dated June 23, 2011.

(h) Replacement

    If during the inspection required by paragraph (g) of this AD, 
an inflatable harness has a part number and batch number identified 
in Appendix I of Zodiac Aerospace Service Bulletin MXH-35-240, 
Revision 7, dated September 1, 2011 (for all airplanes other than 
Bombardier airplanes); or Appendix I of Zodiac Aerospace Service 
Bulletin MXH-35-241, Revision 3, dated June 23, 2011 (for Bombardier 
airplanes): Within 24 months after the effective date of this AD, 
replace the inflatable harness with a new or re-identified harness, 
in accordance with the Accomplishment Instructions of Zodiac 
Aerospace Service Bulletin MXH-35-240, Revision 7, dated September 
1, 2011 (for all airplanes other than Bombardier airplanes); or 
Zodiac Aerospace Service Bulletin MXH-35-241, Revision 3, dated June 
23, 2011 (for Bombardier airplanes).

(i) Exception

    Oxygen mask regulators having a date of manufacturing (DMF) code 
of November 2008 (112008 or 11-08) or earlier, and those with a DMF 
code of January 2011 (012011 or 01-11) or later; and those having a 
part number listed in paragraph 1.A.(4), ``Not Concerned 
Equipment,'' of Zodiac Aerospace Service Bulletin MXH-35-240, 
Revision 7, dated September 1, 2011, are excluded from the 
inspection and replacement requirements of paragraphs (g) and (h) of 
this AD, provided it can be demonstrated that the inflatable harness 
has not been replaced on those masks with an inflatable harness 
having a part number and batch number identified in Appendix I of 
the applicable service information specified in paragraph (i)(1) or 
(i)(2) of this AD. A review of airplane delivery or maintenance 
records is acceptable to make the determination specified in this 
paragraph, if the part number and batch number of the harness 
assembly, and the DMF code of the mask assembly, can be conclusively 
determined from that review.
    (1) Zodiac Aerospace Service Bulletin MXH-35-240, Revision 7, 
dated September 1, 2011 (for all airplanes other than Bombardier 
airplanes).
    (2) Zodiac Aerospace Service Bulletin MXH-35-241, Revision 3, 
dated June 23, 2011 (for Bombardier airplanes).

(j) Definition

    For the purpose of this AD, Bombardier airplanes include 
airplanes previously manufactured by Canadair or by De Havilland 
Canada.

(k) Parts Installation Prohibition

    As of the effective date of this AD, no person may install a 
flightcrew oxygen mask regulator having a part number and batch 
number on the inflatable harness that is found in Appendix I of 
Zodiac Aerospace Service Bulletin MXH-35-240, Revision 7, dated 
September 1, 2011 (for all airplanes); on any airplane. Operators 
may determine if the part number and batch number are not listed in 
Appendix I of Zodiac Aerospace Service Bulletin MXH-35-240, Revision 
7, dated September 1, 2011, by following the flow chart contained in 
paragraph 3., ``Accomplishment Instructions,'' of Zodiac Aerospace 
Service Bulletin MXH-35-240, Revision 7, dated September 1, 2011.

(l) Credit for Previous Actions

    This paragraph provides credit for actions required by paragraph 
(g) of this AD, if those actions were performed before the effective 
date of this AD using the service information specified in 
paragraphs (l)(1) through (l)(4) of this AD, as applicable, which 
are not incorporated by reference in this AD.
    (1) Zodiac Aerospace Service Bulletin MXH-35-240, Revision 6, 
dated August 16, 2011 (for all airplanes other than Bombardier 
airplanes).
    (2) Zodiac Aerospace Service Bulletin MXH-35-240, Revision 5, 
dated July 26, 2011 (for all airplanes other than Bombardier 
airplanes).
    (3) Zodiac Aerospace Service Bulletin MXH-35-240, Revision 4, 
dated June 10, 2011 (for all airplanes other than Bombardier 
airplanes).
    (4) Zodiac Aerospace Service Bulletin MXH-35-241, Revision 2, 
dated May 19, 2011 (for Bombardier airplanes).

(m) Alternative Methods of Compliance (AMOCs)

    The Manager, Boston Aircraft Certification Office (ACO) ANE-150, 
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 ACO, send it to ATTN: Ian Lucas, 
Aerospace Engineer, Boston ACO, ANE-150, FAA, Engine and Propeller 
Directorate, 12 New England Executive Park, Burlington, MA 01803; 
phone: 781-238-7757; fax: 781-238-7170. 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.

(n) Related Information

    (1) Refer to Mandatory Continuing Airworthiness Information 
(MCAI) EASA Airworthiness Directive 2011-0090R1, dated July 13, 
2011, for related information. This MCAI may be found in the AD 
docket on the Internet at http://www.regulations.gov/#!documentDetail;D=FAA-2012-1107-0003.
    (2) Service information identified in this AD that is not 
incorporated by reference is available at the addresses specified in 
paragraphs (o)(3) and (o)(4) of this AD.

(o) 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.
    (i) Zodiac Aerospace Service Bulletin MXH-35-240, Revision 7, 
dated September 1, 2011.
    (ii) Zodiac Aerospace Service Bulletin MXH-35-241, Revision 3, 
dated June 23, 2011.
    (3) For Zodiac Aerospace service information identified in this 
AD, contact Zodiac Services, Technical Publication Department, 
Zodiac Aerotechnics, Oxygen Systems Europe, 61 Rue Pierre Curie-
CS20001, 78373 Plaisir Cedex, France; phone: (33) 01 61 34 23 23; 
fax: (33) 01 30 55 71 61; email: yann.laine@zodiacaerospace.com; 
Internet: www.services.zodiacaerospace.com.
    (4) 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.
    (5) 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 April 10, 2015.
Jeffrey E. Duven,
Manager, Transport Airplane Directorate, Aircraft Certification 
Service.
[FR Doc. 2015-09467 Filed 5-11-15; 8:45 am]
 BILLING CODE 4910-13-P


