Airbus Model A300 B2 and A300 B4 Series Airplanes; A300 B4-600, B4-600R, and F4-600R Series Airplanes; and Model C4 605R Variant F Airplanes (Collectively Called A300-600)

Filed on regulations.gov — full text not in the inline record.

FAA proposes to supersede an existing airworthiness directive (AD) for certain Airbus A300 B2 and B4 series airplanes; and certain A300 B4-600, B4-600R, C4-605R Variant F, and F4-600R series airplanes. That AD currently requires repetitive inspections to detect cracks in Gear Rib 5 of the main landing gear (MLG) attachment fittings at the lower flange, and repair, if necessary. That AD also requires modification of Gear Rib 5 of the MLG attachment fittings, which constitutes terminating action for the repetitive inspections. This proposed AD would reduce the compliance times for all inspections, and requires that you do the inspections in accordance with new revisions of the service bulletins. ATA appreciates the opportunity to comment on this proposed rule. Our members generally support the intent of the rulemaking; however, additional review and clarification would be desirable on the attached comment. Specifically: ¿Cost Estimates ¿ The cost of additional man-hours reflected in the referenced service bulletin and the cost of planned special maintenance visits to complete the AD should be reflected in the estimates. ¿Maintenance Time Frame ¿ The A300-600 MRB is set up on a 30 month cycle for heavy maintenance items. The accomplishment time frame of 15 months for the modification on a fleet of aircraft is only possible with special visits. The repetitive inspections required will ensure the continued structural integrity until the mandatory terminating modification is accomplished. A compliance time of thirty (30) months for completing the modification should accommodate the maintenance program of all operators without sacrificing safety. Your serious consideration of these observations and comments would be greatly appreciated. Sincerely, Robert Peel Director of Quality Air Transport Association