AD 2004-03-33

[Federal Register Volume 69, Number 42 (Wednesday, March 3, 2004)]
[Rules and Regulations]
[Pages 9936-9941]
From the Federal Register Online via the Government Publishing Office [<a href="http://www.gpo.gov">www.gpo.gov</a>]
[FR Doc No: 04-4513]



[[Page 9936]]

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DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION

Federal Aviation Administration

14 CFR Part 39

[Docket No. 2001-NM-302-AD; Amendment 39-13477; AD 2004-03-33]
RIN 2120-AA64


Airworthiness Directives; Airbus Model A300 B2 and B4 Series 
Airplanes; Model A300 B4-600, A300 B4-600R, and A300 F4-600R Series 
Airplanes (Collectively Called A300-600); Model A310 Series Airplanes; 
Model A319, A320, and A321 Series Airplanes; Model A330-301, -321, -
322, -341, and -342 Airplanes; and Model A340 Series Airplanes

AGENCY: Federal Aviation Administration, DOT.

ACTION: Final rule.

-----------------------------------------------------------------------

SUMMARY: This amendment adopts a new airworthiness directive (AD), 
applicable to certain Airbus Model A300 B2 and B4 series airplanes; 
Model A300 B4-600, A300 B4-600R, and A300 F4-600R series airplanes 
(collectively called A300-600); Model A310 series airplanes; Model 
A319, A320, and A321 series airplanes; Model A330-301, -321, -322, -
341, and -342 airplanes; and Model A340 series airplanes. This AD 
requires, among other actions, replacement of certain pitot probes with 
certain new pitot probes. The actions specified by this AD are intended 
to prevent loss or fluctuation of indicated airspeed, which could 
result in misleading information being provided to the flightcrew. This 
action is intended to address the identified unsafe condition.

DATES: Effective April 7, 2004.
    The incorporation by reference of certain publications listed in 
the regulations is approved by the Director of the Federal Register as 
of April 7, 2004.

ADDRESSES: The service information referenced in this AD may be 
obtained from Airbus Industrie, 1 Rond Point Maurice Bellonte, 31707 
Blagnac Cedex, France. This information may be examined at the Federal 
Aviation Administration (FAA), Transport Airplane Directorate, Rules 
Docket, 1601 Lind Avenue, SW., Renton, Washington; or at the Office of 
the Federal Register, 800 North Capitol Street, NW., suite 700, 
Washington, DC.

FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Dan Rodina, Aerospace Engineer, 
International Branch, ANM-116, FAA, Transport Airplane Directorate, 
1601 Lind Avenue, SW., Renton, Washington 98055-4056; telephone (425) 
227-2125; fax (425) 227-1149.

SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: A proposal to amend part 39 of the Federal 
Aviation Regulations (14 CFR part 39) to include an airworthiness 
directive (AD) that is applicable to certain Airbus Model A300 B2 and 
B4 series airplanes; Model A300 B4-600, A300 B4-600R, and A300 F4-600R 
series airplanes (collectively called A300-600); Model A310 series 
airplanes; Model A319, A320, and A321 series airplanes; Model A330-301, 
-321, -322, -341, and -342 airplanes; and Model A340 series airplanes; 
was published as a supplemental notice of proposed rulemaking (NPRM) in 
the Federal Register on June 12, 2003 (68 FR 35186). That action 
proposed to require, among other actions, replacement of certain pitot 
probes with certain new pitot probes.

Comments

    Interested persons have been afforded an opportunity to participate 
in the making of this amendment. Due consideration has been given to 
the comments received.

Support for the Proposed AD

    Several commenters concur with the proposed AD.

Request To Refer to Latest Service Information

    One commenter requests that the FAA revise the proposed AD to refer 
to Airbus Service Bulletin A320-34-1127, Revision 01, dated December 4, 
2001, instead of the original issue of that service bulletin. 
(Paragraph (f) of the supplemental NPRM refers to the original issue of 
Airbus Service Bulletin A320-34-1127, dated April 24, 1997, as the 
acceptable source of service information for the accomplishment of the 
actions in that paragraph.) The commenter notes that the Accomplishment 
Instructions in Revision 01 have not been revised from those in the 
original issue; thus, either issue of the service bulletin should be 
acceptable.
    We concur with the commenter's request and have revised paragraph 
(f) of this final rule to refer to Revision 01 of the service bulletin, 
and to state that replacement of the pitot probes before the effective 
date of this AD per the original issue of Airbus Service Bulletin A320-
34-1127 is acceptable for compliance with that paragraph. Also, we have 
revised the applicability statement of this final rule to refer to 
Revision 01 in addition to the original issue of the service bulletin 
as the service bulletin associated with Airbus Modification 25998.
    Also, we have determined that Airbus has issued the following 
revised service bulletins, and we have revised ``Table 1--
Applicability'' of this AD to refer to all of these revisions:
    [sbull] Service Bulletin A300-34-6116, Revision 03, dated June 6, 
2003. That service bulletin contains procedures that are essentially 
the same as those in Revision 02 of the service bulletin, dated May 25, 
2000, which paragraph (a)(1) of the supplemental NPRM refers to as an 
acceptable source of service information for accomplishing the actions 
in that paragraph on Model A300 B4-600, A300 B4-600R, and A300 F4-600R 
series airplanes. Accordingly, we have revised paragraph (a)(1) of this 
final rule to refer to Revision 03 of the service bulletin, while 
giving credit for actions accomplished previously per the original 
issue of the service bulletin, dated June 19, 1998; Revision 01, dated 
August 7, 1998, or Revision 02.
    [sbull] Airbus Service Bulletin A310-34-2137, Revision 03, dated 
June 6, 2003. That service bulletin contains procedures that are 
essentially the same as those in Revision 02 of the service bulletin, 
dated May 25, 2000, which paragraph (a)(1) of the supplemental NPRM 
refers to as an acceptable source of service information for 
accomplishing the actions in that paragraph on Model A310 series 
airplanes. Accordingly, we have revised paragraph (a)(1) of this final 
rule to refer to Revision 03 of the service bulletin, while giving 
credit for actions accomplished previously per Revision 02.
    [sbull] Service Bulletin A300-32-052, Revision 2, dated September 
10, 1981. That service bulletin contains procedures that are 
essentially the same as those in the original issue of that service 
bulletin, dated November 15, 1976, which paragraph (d) of the 
supplemental NPRM refers to as an acceptable source of service 
information for the actions in that paragraph. Accordingly, we have 
revised paragraph (d) of this final rule to refer to Revision 2 of the 
service bulletin, while giving credit for actions accomplished 
previously per the original issue of the service bulletin.
    [sbull] Airbus Service Bulletin A300-22-031, Revision 1, dated 
February 9, 1981. That service bulletin contains procedures that are 
essentially the same as those in the original issue of that service 
bulletin, dated June 25, 1979, which paragraph (e) of the supplemental 
NPRM refers to as an acceptable source of service information for the 
actions in that paragraph. Accordingly, we have revised paragraph (e) 
of this final rule to

[[Page 9937]]

refer to Revision 1 of the service bulletin, while giving credit for 
actions accomplished previously per the original issue of the service 
bulletin.
    [sbull] Service Bulletin A330-34-3038, Revision 01, dated September 
14, 2001. That service bulletin contains procedures that are 
essentially the same as those in the original issue of that service 
bulletin, dated November 19, 1996, which paragraph (g)(1) of the 
supplemental NPRM refers to as an acceptable source of service 
information for the actions in that paragraph. Accordingly, we have 
revised paragraph (g)(1) of this final rule to refer to Revision 01 of 
the service bulletin, while giving credit for actions accomplished 
previously per the original issue of the service bulletin.
    [sbull] Service Bulletin A330-34-3071, Revision 01, dated May 30, 
2001. That service bulletin contains procedures that are essentially 
the same as those in the original issue of that service bulletin, dated 
December 11, 1998, which paragraph (g)(2) of the supplemental NPRM 
refers to as an acceptable source of service information for the 
actions in that paragraph. Accordingly, we have revised paragraph 
(g)(2) of this final rule to refer to Revision 01 of the service 
bulletin, while giving credit for actions accomplished previously per 
the original issue of the service bulletin.
    [sbull] Service Bulletin A340-34-4042, Revision 01, dated September 
14, 2001. That service bulletin contains procedures that are 
essentially the same as those in the original issue of that service 
bulletin, dated November 19, 1996, which paragraph (h)(1) of the 
supplemental NPRM refers to as an acceptable source of service 
information for the actions in that paragraph. Accordingly, we have 
revised paragraph (h)(1) of this final rule to refer to Revision 01 of 
the service bulletin, while giving credit for actions accomplished 
previously per the original issue of the service bulletin.
    [sbull] Service Bulletin A340-34-4079, Revision 06, dated April 1, 
2003. That service bulletin contains procedures that are essentially 
the same as those described in the original issue of the service 
bulletin, which paragraph (h)(2) of the supplemental NPRM refers to as 
an appropriate source of service information for the actions required 
by that paragraph. Accordingly, we have revised paragraph (h)(2) of 
this final rule to refer to Revision 06 of the service bulletin, while 
giving credit for actions accomplished previously per the original 
issue of the service bulletin, dated December 11, 1998; Revision 01, 
dated May 27, 1999; Revision 02, dated October 6, 1999; Revision 03, 
dated March 12, 2002; Revision 04, dated June 19, 2002; or Revision 05, 
dated July 30, 2002.

Request To Revise Paragraph Reference

    One commenter requests that paragraph (b) of the supplemental NPRM 
be revised to state that compliance is required ``before or 
concurrently with the requirements of paragraph (a)(1).'' Paragraph (b) 
of the supplemental NPRM states that compliance is required ``before or 
concurrently with the requirements of paragraph (a)(2).'' The commenter 
correctly notes that paragraph (b) applies to Model A300 B2 and B4 
series airplanes, while paragraph (a)(2) refers to Model A300 B4-600R, 
A310-203, and A310-304 series airplanes. Paragraph (a)(1) applies to 
Model A300 B2 and B4 series airplanes (among other models).
    We concur with the commenter's request. The reference to paragraph 
(a)(2) in paragraph (b) of the supplemental NPRM was a typographical 
error. We have corrected this error in paragraph (b) of this final 
rule.

Request for Credit for Accomplishment of Modification in Production

    One commenter requests that we revise the supplemental NPRM to 
provide credit for accomplishment, during production, of Airbus 
Modification 2435 in lieu of accomplishment of the actions in Airbus 
Service Bulletin A300-34-069, Revision 5, dated April 8, 1982, as 
revised by Airbus A300 Service Bulletin Change Notice 5A, dated 
February 16, 1987, as would be required by paragraph (b) of the 
proposed AD. The commenter also requests that we provide credit for 
accomplishment of earlier revisions of Airbus Service Bulletin A300-34-
069.
    We partially concur with the commenter's request. We have revised 
paragraph (b) of this final rule to state that ``Accomplishment during 
production of Airbus Modification 2435 is acceptable for compliance.'' 
With regard to providing credit for accomplishment of earlier revisions 
of Airbus Service Bulletin A300-34-069, we acknowledge that certain 
earlier revisions of that service bulletin may be acceptable for 
compliance with corresponding requirements of this AD. However, certain 
older revisions of service bulletins are unavailable to us; therefore, 
we are unable to verify whether they are acceptable for compliance. An 
operator may request approval of an alternative method of compliance 
with this AD, provided that the operator submits a copy of the revision 
of the service bulletin for which credit is sought with the request. We 
have made no further change in this regard.

Explanation of Additional Changes to the Proposed AD

    ``Table--Applicability'' in the proposed AD has been re-identified 
as ``Table 1--Applicability'' in this final rule.
    Also, we have revised ``Table 1--Applicability'' to correct the 
dates for various revisions of Airbus Service Bulletin A320-34-1170, 
which were listed incorrectly in the supplemental NPRM.

Conclusion

    After careful review of the available data, including the comments 
noted above, the FAA has determined that air safety and the public 
interest require the adoption of the rule with the changes previously 
described. The FAA has determined that these changes will neither 
increase the economic burden on any operator nor increase the scope of 
the AD.

Changes to 14 CFR Part 39/Effect on the AD

    On July 10, 2002, the FAA issued a new version of 14 CFR part 39 
(67 FR 47997, July 22, 2002), which governs the FAA's airworthiness 
directives system. The regulation now includes material that relates to 
altered products, special flight permits, and alternative methods of 
compliance. However, for clarity and consistency in this final rule, we 
have retained the language of the supplemental NPRM regarding that 
material.

Change to Labor Rate Estimate

    Since we issued the supplemental NPRM, we have reviewed the figures 
we have used over the past several years to calculate AD costs to 
operators. To account for various inflationary costs in the airline 
industry, we find it necessary to increase the labor rate used in these 
calculations from $60 per work hour to $65 per work hour. The cost 
impact information, below, reflects this increase in the specified 
hourly labor rate.

Cost Impact

    We estimate that 559 Model A300 B2 and B4 series airplanes; Model 
A300 B4-600, A300 B4-600R, and A300 F4-600R series airplanes 
(collectively called A300-600); Model A310 series airplanes; Model 
A319, A320, and A321 series airplanes; and Model A330-301, -321, -322, 
-341, and -342 series airplanes; of U.S. registry will be

[[Page 9938]]

affected by this AD. ``Table--Cost Figures'' shows the estimated cost 
figures for certain airplanes affected by this AD. The average labor 
rate is $65 per work hour.

                                          Table--Estimated Cost Figures
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                        U.S.-
              Model                  registered         Work hours           Parts cost           Total cost
                                      airplanes
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
A300 B2 and A300 B4..............              24  Between 3 and 631..  Between $120 and     Between $7,560 and
                                                                         $56,669 per          $2,344,416; or
                                                                         airplane             $315 and $97,684
                                                                         (depending on        per airplane
                                                                         airplane             (depending on
                                                                         configuration).      airplane
                                                                                              configuration)
A300 B4-600, A300 B4-600R, and                 83  3..................  $5,700.............  $489,285, or $5,895
 A300 F4-600R (collectively                                                                   per airplane
 called A300-600).
A310.............................              46  3..................  $5,700 or $5,856     Between $271,170
                                                                         (depending on        and $278,346; or
                                                                         airplane             $5,895 and $6,051
                                                                         configuration).      per airplane
                                                                                              (depending on
                                                                                              airplane
                                                                                              configuration)
A319, A320, and A321.............             397  3..................  $6,000.............  $2,459,415, or
                                                                                              $6,195 per
                                                                                              airplane
A330-301, -321, -322, -341, and -               9  3..................  $6,000 or $11,100    Between $55,755 and
 342.                                                                    (depending on        $101,655; or
                                                                         airplane             $6,195 and $11,295
                                                                         configuration).      per airplane
                                                                                              (depending on
                                                                                              airplane
                                                                                              configuration)
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

    The cost impact figures discussed in the table above are based on 
assumptions that no operator has yet accomplished any of the 
requirements of this AD action, and that no operator would accomplish 
those actions in the future if this AD were not adopted. The cost 
impact figures discussed in AD rulemaking actions represent only the 
time necessary to perform the specific actions actually required by the 
AD. These figures typically do not include incidental costs, such as 
the time required to gain access and close up, planning time, or time 
necessitated by other administrative actions.
    Currently, there are no Airbus Model A340 series airplanes on the 
U.S. Register. However, should an affected airplane be imported and 
placed on the U.S. Register in the future, it will require 
approximately 3 work hours to accomplish the required actions, at an 
average labor rate of $65 per work hour. The cost of required parts 
would be $6,000 or $11,100 (depending on airplane configuration). Based 
on these figures, the cost impact of this AD on a subject Model A340 
series airplane would be $6,195 or $11,295 per airplane (depending on 
airplane configuration).

Regulatory Impact

    The regulations adopted herein 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. Therefore, it 
is determined that this final rule does not have federalism 
implications under Executive Order 13132.
    For the reasons discussed above, I certify that this action (1) is 
not a ``significant regulatory action'' under Executive Order 12866; 
(2) is not a ``significant rule'' under 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. A final evaluation has been prepared for this action 
and it is contained in the Rules Docket. A copy of it may be obtained 
from the Rules Docket at the location provided under the caption 
ADDRESSES.

List of Subjects in 14 CFR Part 39

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

Adoption of the Amendment

0
Accordingly, pursuant to the authority delegated to me by the 
Administrator, the Federal Aviation Administration amends part 39 of 
the Federal Aviation Regulations (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. Section 39.13 is amended by adding the following new airworthiness 
directive:

2004-03-33 Airbus: Amendment 39-13477. Docket 2001-NM-302-AD.

    Applicability: The series airplanes, certificated in any 
category, listed in Table 1--Applicability.

                                            Table 1.-- Applicability
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                                          Excluding Airplanes
         Model and Series--                 Excluding Airplanes Modified per--              Equipped With--
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
A300 B2 and A300 B4................  Airbus Modification 12236 in service (reference  None.
                                      Airbus Service Bulletin A300-34-0166, dated
                                      March 30, 2001, in service).

[[Page 9939]]

 
A300 B4-600, A300 B4-600R, and A300  Airbus Modification 11858 in production          None.
 F4-600R (collectively called A300-   (reference Airbus Service Bulletin A300 -34-
 600).                                6116, dated June 19, 1998; Revision 01, dated
                                      August 7, 1998; Revision 02, dated May 25,
                                      2000; or Revision 03, dated June 6, 2003; in
                                      service);
                                     or.............................................
                                     Airbus Modification 12223 in service (reference
                                      Airbus Service Bulletin A300-34-6141, dated
                                      December 3, 2001; or Revision 01, dated
                                      February 20, 2002); and on which concurrent
                                      incorporation of Airbus repair procedures to
                                      enlarge the holes for the pitot probes was
                                      accomplished; in service;.
                                     or.............................................
                                     Airbus Modification 12223 in service (reference
                                      Airbus Service Bulletin A300-34-6141, Revision
                                      02, dated April 30, 2002; or Revision 03,
                                      dated August 27, 2002; in service).
A310...............................  Airbus Modification 11858 in production          None.
                                      (reference Airbus Service Bulletin A310-34-
                                      2137, dated June 19, 1998; Revision 01, dated
                                      August 7, 1998; Revision 02, dated May 25,
                                      2000; or Revision 03, dated June 06, 2003; in
                                      service);
                                     or.............................................
                                     Airbus Modification 12223 in service (reference
                                      Airbus Service Bulletin A310-34-2154, dated
                                      January 13, 2000; Revision 01, dated April 19,
                                      2000; Revision 02, dated November 05, 2001; or
                                      Revision 03, dated January 25, 2002); and on
                                      which concurrent incorporation of Airbus
                                      repair procedures to enlarge the holes for the
                                      pitot probes were accomplished; in service;.
                                     or.............................................
                                     Airbus Modification 12223 in service (reference
                                      Airbus Service Bulletin A310-34-2154, Revision
                                      04, dated April 30, 2002; Revision 05, dated
                                      July 9, 2002; Revision 06, dated August 6,
                                      2002; or Revision 07, dated October 8, 2002;
                                      in service).
A319, A320, and A321...............  Airbus Modification 25998 in production          Rosemount (formerly BF
                                      (reference Airbus Service Bulletin A320-34-      Goodrich or New
                                      1127, dated April 24, 1997; or Revision 01,      Rosemount) pitot probes
                                      dated December 4, 2001; in service).             part number 0851HL per
                                                                                       Airbus Modification 25578
                                                                                       (reference Airbus Service
                                                                                       Bulletin A320-34-1170,
                                                                                       dated December 18, 1998;
                                                                                       Revision 01, dated May
                                                                                       14, 1999; Revision 02,
                                                                                       dated December 7, 1999;
                                                                                       Revision 03, dated
                                                                                       February 17, 2000;
                                                                                       Revision 04, dated May
                                                                                       24, 2000; or Revision 05,
                                                                                       dated September 11,
                                                                                       2000).
A330-301, -321, -322, -341, and -    Airbus Modification 44836 in production          None.
 342.                                 (reference Airbus Service Bulletin A330-34-
                                      3038, dated November 19, 1996; or Revision 01,
                                      dated September 14, 2001; in service);
                                     or.............................................
                                     Airbus Modification 45638 in production
                                      (reference Airbus Service Bulletin A330-34-
                                      3071, dated December 11, 1998; or Revision 01,
                                      dated May 30, 2001; in service).
A340-211, -212, -213, -311, -312,    Airbus Modification 44836 in production          None.
 and -313.                            (reference Airbus Service Bulletin A340-34-
                                      4042, dated November 19, 1996; or Revision 01,
                                      dated September 14, 2001; in service);
                                     or.............................................
                                     Airbus Modification 45638 in production
                                      (reference Airbus Service Bulletin A340-34-
                                      4079, dated December 11, 1998; Revision 01,
                                      dated May 27, 1999; Revision 02, dated October
                                      6, 1999; Revision 03, dated March 12, 2002;
                                      Revision 04, dated June 19, 2002; Revision 05,
                                      dated July 30, 2002; or Revision 06, dated
                                      April 1, 2003; in service).
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------


    Note 1: This AD applies to each airplane identified in the 
preceding applicability provision, regardless of whether it has been 
otherwise modified, altered, or repaired in the area subject to the 
requirements of this AD. For airplanes that have been modified, 
altered, or repaired so that the performance of the requirements of 
this AD is affected, the owner/operator must request approval for an 
alternative method of compliance in accordance with paragraph (i) of 
this AD. The request should include an assessment of the effect of 
the modification, alteration, or repair on the unsafe condition 
addressed by this AD; and, if the unsafe condition has not been 
eliminated, the request should include specific proposed actions to 
address it.

    Compliance: Required as indicated, unless accomplished 
previously.
    To prevent loss or fluctuation of indicated airspeed, which 
could result in misleading information being provided to the 
flightcrew, accomplish the following:

For Model A300 B2 and A300 B4 Series Airplanes; Model A300 B4-600, A300 
B4-600R, and A300 F4-600R (Collectively Called A300-600) Series 
Airplanes; and Model A310 Series Airplanes: Replacement of Pitot Probes 
With New Pitot Probes

    (a) Within 30 months after the effective date of this AD, do the 
action specified in paragraph (a)(1) or (a)(2) of this AD, as 
applicable.
    (1) For Model A300 B2 and A300 B4 series airplanes; Model A300 
B4-600, A300 B4-600R, and A300 F4-600R (collectively called

[[Page 9940]]

A300-600) series airplanes; and Model A310 series airplanes: Replace 
the Thales (formerly Sextant) pitot probes from the forward fuselage 
panel between FR6 and FR7 with new Rosemount (formerly BF Goodrich) 
pitot probes (including O-rings, gaskets, and nuts), per Airbus 
Service Bulletin A300-34-0166, dated March 30, 2001 (for Model A300 
B2 and B4 series airplanes); Airbus Service Bulletin A300-34-6116, 
Revision 03, dated June 6, 2003 (for Model A300 B4-600, A300 B4-
600R, and A300 F4-600R series airplanes); or Airbus Service Bulletin 
A310-34-2137, Revision 03, dated June 6, 2003 (for Model A310 series 
airplanes); as applicable. For Model A300 B4-600, A300 B4-600R, and 
A300 F4-600R series airplanes, actions accomplished before the 
effective date of this AD per Airbus Service Bulletin A300-34-6116, 
dated June 19, 1998; Revision 01, dated August 7, 1998; or Revision 
02, dated May 25, 2000; are acceptable for compliance with the 
corresponding action required by this paragraph. For Model A310 
series airplanes: Actions accomplished before the effective date of 
this AD per Airbus Service Bulletin A310-34-2137, Revision 02, dated 
May 25, 2000, are acceptable for compliance with the corresponding 
action required by this paragraph.
    (2) For Model A300 B4-600R, A310-203, and A310-304 series 
airplanes: Replace the Thales (formerly Sextant) pitot probes from 
the forward fuselage panel between FR6 and FR7 with Thales or 
Sextant pitot probes (including O-rings, gaskets, and nuts) per 
Airbus Service Bulletin A300-34-6141, Revision 03, dated August 27, 
2002 (for Model A300 B4-600R series airplanes); or Airbus Service 
Bulletin A310-34-2154, Revision 07, dated October 8, 2002 (for Model 
A310 series airplanes); as applicable.

For Model A300 B2 and A300 B4 Series Airplanes: Before or Concurrent 
Requirements

    (b) For Model A300 B2 and A300 B4 series airplanes: Before or 
concurrently with the requirements of paragraphs (a)(1) of this AD, 
as applicable, replace the Captain's, First Officer's, and standby 
Badin Crouzet pitot probes in zones 121 and 122 between STA881/FR6 
and STA904FR7 with new Badin Crouzet pitot probes (including 
replacement of O-rings, gaskets, and nuts with new parts; and 
modification of electrical wiring and equipment of electrical 
wiring); per Airbus Service Bulletin A300-34-069, Revision 5, dated 
April 8, 1982, as revised by Airbus A300 Service Bulletin Change 
Notice 5A, dated February 16, 1987. Accomplishment during production 
of Airbus Modification 2435 is acceptable for compliance with this 
paragraph.
    (c) For Model A300 B2 and A300 B4 series airplanes, 
manufacturer's serial numbers 002, 004 through 028 inclusive, 030 
through 051 inclusive: Before or concurrently with the requirements 
of paragraph (b) of this AD, modify the relay box of the automatic 
ground depression systems by doing all the actions specified in the 
Accomplishment Instructions of Airbus Service Bulletin A300-21-053, 
Revision 2, dated January 3, 1980; per the service bulletin.
    (d) For Model A300 B2 and A300 B4 series airplanes, 
manufacturer's serial numbers 002, 005 through 007 inclusive, 009 
through 014 inclusive, 016, and 017: Before or concurrently with the 
requirements of paragraph (c) of this AD, do the actions specified 
in paragraphs (d)(1) and (d)(2) of this AD per the Accomplishment 
Instructions of Airbus Service Bulletin A300-32-052, Revision 2, 
dated September 10, 1981. Actions accomplished before the effective 
date of this AD per Airbus Service Bulletin A300-32-052, dated 
November 15, 1976, are acceptable for compliance with the 
corresponding actions required by this paragraph.
    (1) Clean, restore paint coats, and apply mystik tape 7355 to 
shock strut (barrel) of the main landing gear.
    (2) Replace the lower arm link with a new, reidentified lower 
arm lock link.
    (e) For Model A300 B2 and A300 B4 series airplanes, 
manufacturer's serial numbers 005 through 007 inclusive, 009 through 
012 inclusive: Before or concurrently with the requirements of 
paragraph (b) of this AD, modify the electronic racks, electrical 
wiring, and cable routing by accomplishing all the actions specified 
in the Accomplishment Instructions of Airbus Service Bulletin A300-
22-031, Revision 1, dated February 9, 1981, per the service 
bulletin. Modifications accomplished before the effective date of 
this AD per the original issue of Airbus Service Bulletin A300-22-
031, dated June 25, 1979, are acceptable for compliance with this 
paragraph.

For Model A319, A320, and A321 Series Airplanes: Replacement of Thales 
Pitot Probes

    (f) For Model A319, A320, and A321 series airplanes: Within 24 
months after the effective date of this AD: Replace the Thales 
(formerly Sextant) pitot probes in zones 125, 9DA2, and 122 with new 
Thales pitot probes, per the Accomplishment Instructions of Airbus 
Service Bulletin A320-34-1127, Revision 01, dated December 4, 2001. 
Replacements accomplished before the effective date of this AD per 
the original issue of Airbus Service Bulletin A320-34-1127, dated 
April 24, 1997, are acceptable for compliance with this paragraph.

For Model A330-301, -321, -322, -341, and -342 Series Airplanes: 
Replacement of Rosemount Pitot Probes

    (g) Within 30 months after the effective date of this AD, do the 
action specified in paragraph (g)(1) or (g)(2) of this AD, as 
applicable.
    (1) For Model A330-301, -321, -322, -341, and -342 series 
airplanes: Replace the Rosemount pitot probes in zones 121 and 122 
with new Rosemount (formerly BF Goodrich) pitot probes, per the 
Accomplishment Instructions of Airbus Service Bulletin A330-34-3038, 
Revision 01, dated September 14, 2001. Replacements accomplished 
before the effective date of this AD per Airbus Service Bulletin 
A330-34-3038, dated November 19, 1996, are acceptable for compliance 
with the corresponding action required by this paragraph.
    (2) For Model A330-301 series airplanes: Replace the Rosemount 
pitot probes in zones 121 and 122 with new Thales (formerly Sextant) 
pitot probes, per Airbus Service Bulletin A330-34-3071, Revision 01, 
dated May 30, 2001. Replacements accomplished before the effective 
date of this AD per the Accomplishment Instructions of Airbus 
Service Bulletin A330-34-3071, dated December 11, 1998, are 
acceptable for compliance with the corresponding action required by 
this paragraph.

For Model A340-211, -212, -213, -311, -312, and -313 Series Airplanes: 
Replace the Rosemount Pitot Probes

    (h) Within 30 months after the effective date of this AD, do the 
actions specified in paragraph (h)(1) or (h)(2) of this AD, as 
applicable.
    (1) For Model A340-211, -212, -213, -311, -312, and -313 series 
airplanes: Replace the Rosemount pitot probes in zones 121 and 122 
with new Rosemount (formerly BF Goodrich) pitot probes, per the 
Accomplishment Instructions of Airbus Service Bulletin A340-34-4042, 
Revision 01, dated September 14, 2001. Replacements accomplished 
before the effective date of this AD per Airbus Service Bulletin 
A340-34-4042, dated November 19, 1996, are acceptable for compliance 
with the corresponding action required by this paragraph.
    (2) For Model A340-211, -212, and -311 series airplanes: Replace 
the Rosemount pitot probes in zones 121 and 122 with new Thales 
(formerly Sextant) pitot probes, per the Accomplishment Instructions 
of Airbus Service Bulletin A340-34-4079, Revision 06, dated April 1, 
2003. This replacement must be done before or concurrently with the 
requirements of paragraph (h)(1) of this AD. Replacements 
accomplished before the effective date of this AD per Airbus Service 
Bulletin A340-34-4079, dated December 11, 1998; Revision 01, dated 
May 27, 1999; Revision 02, dated October 6, 1999; Revision 03, dated 
March 12, 2002; Revision 04, dated June 19, 2002; or Revision 05, 
dated July 30, 2002; are acceptable for compliance with the 
corresponding action required by this paragraph.

Alternative Methods of Compliance

    (i) An alternative method of compliance or adjustment of the 
compliance time that provides an acceptable level of safety may be 
used if approved by the Manager, International Branch, ANM-116, FAA. 
Operators shall submit their requests through an appropriate FAA 
Principal Maintenance Inspector, who may add comments and then send 
it to the Manager, International Branch, ANM-116.

    Note 2: Information concerning the existence of approved 
alternative methods of compliance with this AD, if any, may be 
obtained from the International Branch, ANM-116.

Special Flight Permits

    (j) Special flight permits may be issued in accordance with 
sections 21.197 and 21.199 of the Federal Aviation Regulations (14 
CFR 21.197 and 21.199) to operate the airplane to a location where 
the requirements of this AD can be accomplished.

    Note 3: The subject of this AD is addressed in French 
airworthiness directives 2001-

[[Page 9941]]

362(B), dated August 8, 2001; and 2001-265(B) R2, dated November 13, 
2002.

Incorporation by Reference

    (k) Unless otherwise specified in this AD, the actions shall be 
done in accordance with the applicable service bulletin listed in 
Table 2 of this AD. Table 2 of this AD follows:

                              Table 2.--Service Bulletins Incorporated by Reference
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
         Airbus Service Bulletin                      Revision                              Date
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
A300-21-053.............................  2..............................  January 3, 1980.
A300-22-031.............................  1..............................  February 9, 1981.
A300-32-052.............................  2..............................  September 10, 1981.
A300-34-069, as revised by Airbus A300    5..............................  April 8, 1982.
 Service Bulletin Change Notice 5A
 (dated February 16, 1987).
A300-34-0166............................  Original.......................  March 30, 2001.
A300-34-6116............................  03.............................  June 6, 2003.
A300-34-6141............................  03.............................  August 27, 2002.
A310-34-2137............................  03.............................  June 6, 2003.
A310-34-2154............................  07.............................  October 8, 2002.
A320-34-1127............................  01.............................  December 4, 2001.
A330-34-3038............................  01.............................  September 14, 2001.
A330-34-3071............................  01.............................  May 30, 2001.
A340-34-4042............................  01.............................  September 14, 2001.
A340-34-4079............................  06.............................  April 1, 2003.
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

    Airbus Service Bulletin A300-34-069, Revision 5, contains the 
following effective pages:

----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
               Page Number                  Revision level shown on page             Date shown on page
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
1, 7, 8, 61, 62.........................  5..............................  April 8, 1982.
2.......................................  4..............................  October 1, 1981.
3-6, 9-13, 16-21, 26-39, 41-48, 57-60,    Original.......................  April 12, 1979.
 63-66, 71, 72.
14, 15, 22, 40, 49-52, 75, 76...........  3..............................  March 23, 1981.
23, 24, 53-56, 67-70, 73, 74, 77-80.....  1..............................  March 14, 1980.
25......................................  2..............................  April 10, 1980.
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

    This incorporation by reference was approved by the Director of 
the Federal Register in accordance with 5 U.S.C. 552(a) and 1 CFR 
part 51. Copies may be obtained from Airbus Industrie, 1 Rond Point 
Maurice Bellonte, 31707 Blagnac Cedex, France. Copies may be 
inspected at the FAA, Transport Airplane Directorate, 1601 Lind 
Avenue, SW., Renton, Washington; or at the Office of the Federal 
Register, 800 North Capitol Street, NW., suite 700, Washington, DC.

Effective Date

    (1) This amendment becomes effective on April 7, 2004.

    Issued in Renton, Washington, on February 4, 2004.
Kevin M. Mullin,
Acting Manager, Transport Airplane Directorate, Aircraft Certification 
Service.
[FR Doc. 04-4513 Filed 3-2-04; 8:45 am]
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