[Federal Register Volume 83, Number 178 (Thursday, September 13, 2018)]
[Rules and Regulations]
[Pages 46377-46380]
From the Federal Register Online via the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]
[FR Doc No: 2018-19748]


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DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION

Federal Aviation Administration

14 CFR Part 39

[Docket No. FAA-2018-0271; Product Identifier 2017-NM-111-AD; Amendment 
39-19396; AD 2018-18-17]
RIN 2120-AA64


Airworthiness Directives; Saab AB, Saab Aeronautics (Formerly 
Known as Saab AB, Saab Aerosystems) Airplanes

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

ACTION: Final rule.

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SUMMARY: We are superseding Airworthiness Directive (AD) 2016-13-06, 
which applied to certain Saab AB, Saab Aeronautics Model 340A (SAAB/
SF340A) and SAAB 340B airplanes. AD 2016-13-06 required a revision of 
the applicable airplane flight manual (AFM), repetitive inspections of 
the horizontal stabilizer de-icing boots, and applicable corrective 
actions. This AD continues to require a revision of the applicable AFM, 
repetitive inspections of the horizontal stabilizer de-icing boots, and 
applicable corrective actions. This AD also requires replacement of 
single stitched de-icing boots with improved double stitched boots, and 
re-identification of the modified horizontal stabilizer leading edge. 
This AD was prompted by reports of ruptured horizontal stabilizer de-
icing boots. We are issuing this AD to address the unsafe condition on 
these products.

DATES: This AD is effective October 18, 2018.

[[Page 46378]]

    The Director of the Federal Register approved the incorporation by 
reference of a certain publication listed in this AD as of October 18, 
2018.
    The Director of the Federal Register approved the incorporation by 
reference of certain other publications listed in this AD as of August 
1, 2016 (81 FR 41432, June 27, 2016).

ADDRESSES: For service information identified in this final rule, 
contact Saab AB, Saab Aeronautics, SE-581 88, Link[ouml]ping, Sweden; 
phone: +46 13 18 5591; fax: +46 13 18 4874; email: 
[email protected]; internet: http://www.saabgroup.com. 
You may view this referenced service information at the FAA, Transport 
Standards Branch, 2200 South 216th St., Des Moines, WA. For information 
on the availability of this material at the FAA, call 206-231-3195. It 
is also available on the internet at http://www.regulations.gov by 
searching for and locating Docket No. FAA-2018-0271.

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-2018-
0271; or in person at Docket Operations between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m., 
Monday through Friday, except Federal holidays. The AD docket contains 
this final rule, the regulatory evaluation, any comments received, and 
other information. The address for Docket Operations (phone: 800-647-
5527) is Docket Operations, 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: Shahram Daneshmandi, Aerospace 
Engineer, International Section, Transport Standards Branch, FAA, 2200 
South 216th St., Des Moines, WA 98198; phone and fax: 206-231-3220.

SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: 

Discussion

    We issued a notice of proposed rulemaking (NPRM) to amend 14 CFR 
part 39 to supersede AD 2016-13-06, Amendment 39-18570 (81 FR 41432, 
June 27, 2016) (``AD 2016-13-06''). AD 2016-13-06 applied to certain 
Saab AB, Saab Aeronautics Model 340A (SAAB/SF340A) and SAAB 340B 
airplanes. The NPRM published in the Federal Register on April 17, 2018 
(83 FR 16792). The NPRM was prompted by reports of ruptured horizontal 
stabilizer de-icing boots. The NPRM proposed to continue to require a 
revision of the applicable AFM, repetitive inspections of the 
horizontal stabilizer de-icing boots, and applicable corrective 
actions. The NPRM also proposed to require replacement of single 
stitched de-icing boots with improved double stitched boots, and re-
identification of the modified horizontal stabilizer leading edge. We 
are issuing this AD to detect and correct ruptured horizontal 
stabilizer de-icing boots, which could lead to complete loss of the de-
icing function within its associated zone and severe vibrations, 
possibly resulting in reduced control of the airplane.
    The European Aviation Safety Agency (EASA), which is the Technical 
Agent for the Member States of the European Union, has issued EASA AD 
2017-0144, dated August 9, 2017 (referred to after this as the 
Mandatory Continuing Airworthiness Information, or ``the MCAI''), to 
correct an unsafe condition for certain Saab AB, Saab Aeronautics Model 
340A (SAAB/SF340A) and SAAB 340B airplanes. The MCAI states:

    Several occurrences were reported of rupture of the horizontal 
stabilizer de-icing boot in flight. In some of the reported events, 
the de-icing boot had formed a large open scoop.
    This condition, if not detected and corrected, could lead to 
complete loss of the de-icing function within its associated zone 
and severe vibrations, possibly resulting in reduced control of the 
aeroplane.
    To address this potential unsafe condition, Saab AB, Aeronautics 
(hereafter referred to as ``Saab'' in this [EASA] AD) issued Alert 
Operations Bulletin (AOB) No. 12 and AOB No. 23 as temporary 
measures, recommending to select Flaps 0 for landing in the event of 
a suspected rupture of the deicing boot on the horizontal 
stabilizer. In addition, Saab issued SB [Service Bulletin] 340-30-
094 providing instructions for inspection of de-icing boots.
    Consequently, EASA issued AD 2015-0129 [which corresponds to FAA 
AD 2016-13-06] to require amendment of the applicable Aircraft 
Flight Manual (AFM), repetitive inspections of the horizontal 
stabilizer deicing boots and, depending on findings, accomplishment 
of applicable corrective action(s).
    Since that [EASA] AD was issued, Saab developed an improved de-
icing boot, reinforced through double stitch lines, and issued SB 
340-30-095 providing instructions for boot replacement.
    For the reason described above, this [EASA] AD retains the 
requirements of EASA AD 2015-0129, which is superseded, and requires 
replacement of single stitched deicing boots, installed on the left-
hand (LH) and right-hand (RH) horizontal stabilizer, with improved 
double stitched boots, and reidentification of the modified 
horizontal stabilizer leading edge.

    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-2018-
0271.

Comments

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

Conclusion

    We reviewed the relevant data and determined that air safety and 
the public interest require adopting this final rule as proposed, 
except for minor editorial changes. We have determined that these minor 
changes:
     Are consistent with the intent that was proposed in the 
NPRM for addressing the unsafe condition; and
     Do not add any additional burden upon the public than was 
already proposed in the NPRM.

Related Service Information Under 1 CFR Part 51

    Saab AB, Saab Aeronautics has issued the following service 
information.
     Service Bulletin 340-30-094, dated March 27, 2015. This 
service information describes procedures for repetitive detailed 
inspections of the de-icing boots installed on the horizontal 
stabilizers, and repair and replacement of damaged de-icing boots.
     Service Bulletin 340-30-095, dated April 3, 2017. This 
service information describes procedures for replacement of single 
stitched de-icing boots with improved double stitched boots, and re-
identification of the modified horizontal stabilizer leading edge.
    Saab AB, Saab Aeronautics has also issued the following AFMs, which 
describe performance limitations and general data. These AFMs are 
distinct since they apply to different airplane models in different 
configurations.
     AFM 340A 001, Revision 57, dated March 27, 2015.
     AFM 340B 001, Revision 35, dated March 27, 2015.
     AFM 340B 010, Revision 28, dated March 27, 2015.
    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 51 airplanes of U.S. registry.
    The actions required by AD 2016-13-06, and retained in this AD take 
about 6 work-hours per product, at an average labor rate of $85 per 
workhour. Based on these figures, the estimated cost of the actions 
that are required by AD 2016-13-06 is $510 per product.

[[Page 46379]]

    In addition, we estimate that any necessary follow-on actions 
required by AD 2016-13-06, and retained in this AD take about 6 work-
hours and require parts costing $9,500, for a cost of $10,010 per 
product. We have no way of determining the number of aircraft that 
might need these actions.
    We also estimate that it would take about 6 work-hours per product 
to comply with the basic requirements of this AD. The average labor 
rate is $85 per work-hour. Required parts would cost about $13,500 per 
product. Based on these figures, we estimate the cost of this AD on 
U.S. operators to be $714,510, or $14,010 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.
    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) 
2016-13-06, Amendment 39-18570 (81 FR 41432, June 27, 2016), and adding 
the following new AD:

2018-18-17 Saab AB, Saab Aeronautics (Formerly Known as Saab AB, 
Saab Aerosystems): Amendment 39-19396; Docket No. FAA-2018-0271; 
Product Identifier 2017-NM-111-AD.

(a) Effective Date

    This AD is effective October 18, 2018.

(b) Affected ADs

    This AD replaces AD 2016-13-06, Amendment 39-18570 (81 FR 41432, 
June 27, 2016) (``AD 2016-13-06'').

(c) Applicability

    This AD applies to Saab AB, Saab Aeronautics (Type Certificate 
Previously Held by Saab AB, Saab Aerosystems) airplanes, 
certificated in any category, as identified in paragraphs (c)(1) and 
(c)(2) of this AD.
    (1) Saab AB, Saab Aeronautics Model 340A (SAAB/SF340A) 
airplanes, serial numbers (S/Ns) 004 through 138 inclusive, on which 
Saab Modification 1462 has been embodied in production, or Saab 
Service Bulletin 340-55-008 has been embodied in service, except 
those on which Saab Modification 1793 has also been embodied in 
production, or Saab Service Bulletin 340-55-010 has been embodied in 
service; and Saab AB, Saab Aeronautics Model 340A (SAAB/SF340A) 
airplanes, S/Ns 139 through 159 inclusive.
    (2) Saab AB, Saab Aeronautics Model SAAB 340B airplanes, S/Ns 
160 through 459 inclusive.

(d) Subject

    Air Transport Association (ATA) of America Code 30, Ice and Rain 
Protection.

(e) Reason

    This AD was prompted by reports of ruptured horizontal 
stabilizer de-icing boots. We are issuing this AD to detect and 
correct ruptured horizontal stabilizer de-icing boots, which could 
lead to complete loss of the deicing function within its associated 
zone and severe vibrations, possibly resulting in reduced control of 
the airplane.

(f) Compliance

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

(g) Retained Revision of the Airplane Flight Manual (AFM), With No 
Changes

    This paragraph restates the requirements of paragraph (g) of AD 
2016-13-06, with no changes. Within 30 days after August 1, 2016 
(the effective date of AD 2016-13-06), revise the ``Abnormal 
Procedures'' section of the applicable Saab 340 AFM to incorporate 
the revision specified in paragraphs (g)(1) through (g)(3) of this 
AD.
    (1) For Saab AB, Saab Aeronautics Model 340A (SAAB/SF340A) 
airplanes, revise Saab AFM 340A 001 by incorporating Revision 57, 
dated March 27, 2015.
    (2) For Saab AB, Saab Aeronautics Model SAAB 340B airplanes, 
revise Saab AFM 340B 001 by incorporating Revision 35, dated March 
27, 2015.
    (3) For Saab AB, Saab Aeronautics Model SAAB 340B airplanes with 
extended wing tips, revise Saab AFM 340B 010 by incorporating 
Revision 28, dated March 27, 2015.

(h) Retained Inspection/Replacement, With No Changes

    This paragraph restates the requirements of paragraph (h) of AD 
2016-13-06, with no changes. Within 400 flight hours or 6 months, 
whichever occurs first after August 1, 2016 (the effective date of 
AD 2016-13-06), do a detailed inspection for damage of the 
horizontal stabilizer de-icing boots, and existing repairs of 
horizontal stabilizer de-icing boots, in accordance with the 
Accomplishment Instructions of Saab Service Bulletin 340-30-094, 
dated March 27, 2015. Repeat the inspection thereafter at intervals 
not to exceed 400 flight hours. If, during any inspection required 
by this paragraph, any damage or existing repair outside the limits 
specified in Saab Service Bulletin 340-30-094, dated March 27, 2015, 
is found, before further flight, repair or replace the horizontal 
stabilizer de-icing boots, in accordance with the Accomplishment 
Instructions of Saab Service Bulletin 340-30-094, dated March 27, 
2015. Repair or replacement on an airplane of the horizontal 
stabilizer de-icing boots, as required by this paragraph, does not 
constitute terminating action for the repetitive inspections 
required by this paragraph for that airplane.

(i) New Requirement of This AD: Modification

    Within 18 months after the effective date of this AD, modify the 
airplane by replacing

[[Page 46380]]

the single stitched de-icing boots installed on the left-hand (LH) 
and right-hand (RH) horizontal stabilizers with double stitched de-
icing boots and re-identify the LH and RH horizontal stabilizer 
leading edge, in accordance with the Accomplishment Instructions of 
Saab Service Bulletin 340-30-095, dated April 3, 2017.

(j) Terminating Action for the Requirements of Paragraph (h) of this AD

    Modification of an airplane as required by paragraph (i) of this 
AD, constitutes terminating action for the repetitive inspections 
required by paragraph (h) of this AD, for that airplane.

(k) 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 (l)(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 European Aviation Safety Agency (EASA); or Saab 
AB, Saab Aeronautics' EASA Design Organization Approval (DOA). If 
approved by the DOA, the approval must include the DOA-authorized 
signature

(l) Related Information

    (1) Refer to Mandatory Continuing Airworthiness Information 
(MCAI) EASA AD 2017-0144, dated August 9, 2017, 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-2018-0271.
    (2) For more information about this AD, contact Shahram 
Daneshmandi, Aerospace Engineer, International Section, Transport 
Standards Branch, FAA, 2200 South 216th St., Des Moines, WA 98198; 
phone and fax: 206-231-3220.

(m) 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 
October 18, 2018.
    (i) Saab Service Bulletin 340-30-095, dated April 3, 2017.
    (ii) Reserved.
    (4) The following service information was approved for IBR on 
August 1, 2016 (81 FR 41432, June 27, 2016).
    (i) Saab Service Bulletin 340-30-094, dated March 27, 2015.
    (ii) Saab AFM 340A 001, Revision 57, dated March 27, 2015.
    (iii) Saab AFM 340B 001, Revision 35, dated March 27, 2015.
    (iv) Saab AFM 340B 010, Revision 28, dated March 27, 2015.
    (5) For service information identified in this AD, contact Saab 
AB, Saab Aeronautics, SE-581 88, Link[ouml]ping, Sweden; phone: +46 
13 18 5591; fax: +46 13 18 4874; email: 
[email protected]; internet: http://www.saabgroup.com.
    (6) You may view this service information at the FAA, Transport 
Standards Branch, 2200 South 216th St., Des Moines, WA. For 
information on the availability of this material at the FAA, call 
206-231-3195.
    (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 Des Moines, Washington, on August 23, 2018.
James Cashdollar,
Acting Director, System Oversight Division, Aircraft Certification 
Service.
[FR Doc. 2018-19748 Filed 9-12-18; 8:45 am]
 BILLING CODE 4910-13-P


