Report of inspections Required by Airworthiness Directives, Part 39

[Federal Register: May 21, 2010 (Volume 75, Number 98)]
[Rules and Regulations]
[Page 28480-28483]
From the Federal Register Online via GPO Access [wais.access.gpo.gov]
[DOCID:fr21my10-7]
––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––
DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION
Federal Aviation Administration
14 CFR Part 39
[Docket No. FAA-2010-0172; Directorate Identifier 2009-NM-189-AD; Amendment 39-16308;
AD 2010-11-03]
RIN 2120-AA64
Airworthiness Directives; Airbus Model A300 Series Airplanes; Model A300 B4-600, B4-600R,
F4-600R Series Airplanes, and Model A300 C4-605R Variant F Airplanes (Collectively Called
A300-600 Series Airplanes); and A310 Series Airplanes
AGENCY: Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), Department of Transportation (DOT).
ACTION: Final rule.
––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––
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:
In the past, some operators have reported difficulties to pressurise the hydraulic
reservoirs, due to leakage of the Crissair reservoir air pressurisation check valves. * *
* The leakage of the check valves was caused by an incorrect spring material. The
affected Crissair check valves * * * were then replaced with improved check valves
P/N [part number] 2S2794-1 * * *.
More recently, similar issues were again reported on aeroplanes with Crissair check
valves P/N 2S2794-1 installed. The investigations * * * have shown that a spring,
mounted inside the valve, does not meet the Airbus type design specifications.
This situation, if not corrected, can cause hydraulic system functional degradation,
possibly resulting in reduced control of the aeroplane when combined with an air duct
leak, air conditioning system contamination or, if installed, malfunction of the fire
extinguishing system in the Class 'C' cargo compartment.
*
*
*
*
*
We are issuing this AD to require actions to correct the unsafe condition on these products.
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DATES: This AD becomes effective June 25, 2010.
The Director of the Federal Register approved the incorporation by reference of certain
publications listed in this AD as of June 25, 2010.
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: Dan Rodina, Aerospace Engineer, International
Branch, ANM-116, Transport Airplane Directorate, FAA, 1601 Lind Avenue, SW., Renton,
Washington 98057-3356; telephone (425) 227-2125; 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
February 25, 2010 (75 FR 8551). That NPRM proposed to correct an unsafe condition for the
specified products. The MCAI states:
In the past, some operators have reported difficulties to pressurise the hydraulic
reservoirs, due to leakage of the Crissair reservoir air pressurisation check valves. In
some cases, the air conditioning system was contaminated with hydraulic mist. The
leakage of the check valves was caused by an incorrect spring material. The affected
Crissair check valves Part Number (P/N) 2S2794 were then replaced with improved
check valves P/N 2S2794-1 in accordance with Airbus Service Information Letter 29020.
More recently, similar issues were again reported on aeroplanes with Crissair check
valves P/N 2S2794-1 installed. The investigations carried out on those check valves
have shown that a spring, mounted inside the valve, does not meet the Airbus type
design specifications.
This situation, if not corrected, can cause hydraulic system functional degradation,
possibly resulting in reduced control of the aeroplane when combined with an air duct
leak, air conditioning system contamination or, if installed, malfunction of the fire
extinguishing system in the Class 'C' cargo compartment.
For the reasons described above, EASA [European Aviation Safety Agency] AD
2008-0166 was issued to require the inspection of the Crissair check valves P/N
2S2794-1, to identify serial numbers (s/n) and the replacement of the affected ones
with serviceable units.
Later on, further investigation by the vendor Crissair revealed more suspect check
valves P/N 2S2794-1. Based on this, it was concluded that EASA AD 2008-0166 did
not adequately address the unsafe condition and also did not correctly identify the
Functional Item Numbers (FIN) of the various aeroplane installations of the affected
valves. Consequently, EASA AD Cancellation Notice No.: 2008-0166-CN was issued
on 29 October 2008 to cancel EASA AD 2008-0166.

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An updated list of suspect check valves with P/N 2S2794-1 has now been issued by
Crissair Inc., the manufacturer. Consequently, this EASA AD requires the
identification of the check valves by s/n and the replacement of the affected ones with
serviceable units.
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 206 products of U.S. registry. We also estimate that it will
take about 12 work-hours per product to comply with the basic requirements of this AD. The average
labor rate is $85 per work-hour. Based on these figures, we estimate the cost of this AD to the U.S.
operators to be $210,120, or $1,020 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.
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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
Accordingly, under the authority delegated to me by the Administrator, the FAA amends 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.
§ 39.13 [Amended]
2. The FAA amends § 39.13 by adding the following new AD:

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AIRWORTHINESS DIRECTIVE
FAA
Aviation Safety

www.faa.gov/aircraft/safety/alerts/
www.gpoaccess.gov/fr/advanced.html

2010-11-03 Airbus: Amendment 39-16308. Docket No. FAA-2010-0172; Directorate Identifier
2009-NM-189-AD.
Effective Date
(a) This airworthiness directive (AD) becomes effective June 25, 2010.
Affected ADs
(b) None.
Applicability
(c) This AD applies to Airbus Model A300 B2-1A, B2-1C, B2K-3C, B2-203, B4-2C, B4-103,
B4-203, B4-601, B4-603, B4-620, B4-622, B4-605R, B4-622R, F4-605R, F4-622R, and C4-605R
Variant F airplanes; and Model A310-203, -204, -221, -222, -304, -322, -324, and -325 airplanes;
certificated in any category, all certified models and all serial numbers on which any Crissair check
valve part number 2S2794-1 is installed.
Subject
(d) Air Transport Association (ATA) of America Code 29: Hydraulic Power; and 26: Fire
Protection.
Reason
(e) The mandatory continuing airworthiness information (MCAI) states:
In the past, some operators have reported difficulties to pressurise the hydraulic
reservoirs, due to leakage of the Crissair reservoir air pressurization check valves. In
some cases, the air conditioning system was contaminated with hydraulic mist. The
leakage of the check valves was caused by an incorrect spring material. The affected
Crissair check valves Part Number (P/N) 2S2794 were then replaced with improved
check valves P/N 2S2794-1 in accordance with Airbus Service Information Letter 29020.
More recently, similar issues were again reported on aeroplanes with Crissair check
valves P/N 2S2794-1 installed. The investigations carried out on those check valves
have shown that a spring, mounted inside the valve, does not meet the Airbus type
design specifications.
This situation, if not corrected, can cause hydraulic system functional degradation,
possibly resulting in reduced control of the aeroplane when combined with an air duct

5

leak, air conditioning system contamination or, if installed, malfunction of the fire
extinguishing system in the Class 'C' cargo compartment.
For the reasons described above, EASA [European Aviation Safety Agency] AD
2008-0166 was issued to require the inspection of the Crissair check valves P/N
2S2794-1, to identify serial numbers (s/n) and the replacement of the affected ones
with serviceable units.
Later on, further investigation by the vendor Crissair revealed more suspect check
valves P/N 2S2794-1. Based on this, it was concluded that EASA AD 2008-0166 did
not adequately address the unsafe condition and also did not correctly identify the
Functional Item Numbers (FIN) of the various aeroplane installations of the affected
valves. Consequently, EASA AD Cancellation Notice No.: 2008-0166-CN was issued
on 29 October 2008 to cancel EASA AD 2008-0166.
An updated list of suspect check valves with P/N 2S2794-1 has now been issued by
Crissair Inc., the manufacturer. Consequently, this EASA AD requires the
identification of the check valves by s/n and the replacement of the affected ones with
serviceable units.
Actions and Compliance
(f) Unless already done, do the following actions.
(1) At the applicable compliance time specified in Table 1 of this AD: For Crissair check valves,
P/N 2S2794-1, identify the serial number using Appendix 1 of the applicable service bulletin
identified in Table 2 of this AD, in accordance with the Accomplishment Instructions of the
applicable service bulletin identified in Table 2 of this AD. Except as provided by paragraph (f)(2) of
this AD, for any valve having a serial number listed in Appendix 1 of the applicable service bulletin
identified in Table 2 of this AD, before further flight, install a new or modified check valve in
accordance with the applicable service bulletin identified in Table 2 of this AD.
Table 1 – Affected Check Valve Installation
Affected Check Valve Installation, Identified by FIN
(Functional Item Number)

Compliance Time

(i) Airplanes having Hydraulic System with FIN 29/1388, FIN
29/2388 and FIN 29/3388

Within 4 months after the effective
date of this AD

(ii) Cargo Compartment Fire Extinguishing System, equipped
with Flow Metering System (A310 and A300-600 airplanes
having “post-Airbus modification 06403” only) FIN 26/0203

Within 4 months after the effective
date of this AD

(iii) Airplanes having Hydraulic System with FIN 29/1378,
FIN 29/1382 and FIN 29/1394

Within 30 months after the
effective date of this AD

(iv) Hydraulic System (A300 airplanes having configuration
01 “pre-Airbus modification 03079” only) FIN 29/1381

Within 30 months after the
effective date of this AD

(2) Check valves P/N 2S2794-1 marked with an ''R'' have already been modified in accordance
with Crissair Service Bulletin 20070407-29-1 and do not need to be replaced. Check valves with P/N
2S2794 are not affected and do not need to be replaced.
(3) As of the effective date of this AD, no person may install any Crissair check valve, P/N
2S2794-1, on any airplane unless it has a serial number other than those listed in Appendix 1 of the
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applicable service bulletin identified in Table 2 of this AD, or unless check valve P/N 2S2794-1 is
marked with an ''R.''
Table 2 – Service Information
For Airbus Model – Use Airbus Mandatory Service Bulletin –

Revision –

Dated –

A300 airplanes

A300-29-0124, including Appendices 1, 2, and 3 02

March 10,
2009

A300-600 airplanes

A300-29-6060, including Appendices 1, 2, and 3 01

March 10,
2009

A310 airplanes

A310-29-2097, including Appendices 1, 2, and 3 01

March 19,
2009

(4) Submit an inspection report of the inspection required by paragraph (f)(1) of this AD to
Airbus Customer Services Directorate, 1 Rond Point Maurice Bellonte, 31707 Blagnac Cedex,
France; telephone +33 5 61 93 33 33; fax +33 5 61 93 42 51; e-mail: [email protected]; at the
applicable time specified in paragraph (f)(4)(i) or (f)(4)(ii) of this AD. The report must include the
information specified on the inspection report sheet provided in the applicable service bulletin
identified in Table 2 of this AD.
(i) If the inspection was done on or after the effective date of this AD: Submit the report within
30 days after the inspection.
(ii) If the inspection was done before the effective date of this AD: Submit the report within 30
days after the effective date of this AD.
FAA AD Differences
Note 1: This AD differs from the MCAI and/or service information as follows: Although the
MCAI states not to install the part identified in paragraph (f)(3) of this AD after accomplishing the
actions specified in paragraph (f)(1) of this AD, this AD prohibits installation of the part as of 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, ANM116, 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: Dan Rodina,
Aerospace Engineer, International Branch, ANM-116, Transport Airplane Directorate, FAA, 1601
Lind Avenue, SW., Renton, Washington 98057-3356; telephone (425) 227-2125; fax (425) 227-1149.
Before using any approved AMOC on any airplane to which the AMOC applies, notify your principal
maintenance inspector (PMI) or principal avionics inspector (PAI), as appropriate, or lacking a
principal inspector, your local Flight Standards 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.
(3) Reporting Requirements: For any reporting requirement in this AD, under the provisions of
the Paperwork Reduction Act (44 U.S.C. 3501 et seq.), the Office of Management and Budget

7

(OMB) has approved the Information collection requirements and has assigned OMB Control
Number 2120-0056.
Related Information
(h) Refer to MCAI EASA Airworthiness Directive 2009-0171, dated August 5, 2009; and the
service bulletins identified in Table 2 of this AD; for related information.
Material Incorporated by Reference
(i) You must use the service information contained in Table 3 of this AD 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 Airbus SAS-EAW (Airworthiness
Office), 1 Rond Point Maurice Bellonte, 31707 Blagnac Cedex, France; telephone +33 5 61 93 36 96;
fax +33 5 61 93 44 51; e-mail: [email protected]; Internet http://www.airbus.com.
(3) You may review copies of the 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.
(4) You may also review copies of the 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/code_of_
federal_regulations/ibr_locations.html.
Table 3 – Material incorporated by reference
Document

Revision

Date

Airbus Mandatory Service Bulletin A300-29-0124,
including Appendices 1, 2, and 3

02

March 10, 2009

Airbus Mandatory Service Bulletin A300-29-6060,
including Appendices 1, 2, and 3

01

March 10, 2009

Airbus Mandatory Service Bulletin A310-29-2097,
including Appendices 1, 2, and 3

01

March 19, 2009

Issued in Renton, Washington, on May 11, 2010.
Ali Bahrami,
Manager, Transport Airplane Directorate,
Aircraft Certification Service.

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