AD 2000-23-15 Airworthiness Directives; Saab Model SAAB SF340A and SAAB 340B Series Airplanes

Models named: SAAB SF340A series, SAAB 340B series. Read the applicability below — it usually turns on serial or part numbers too.

Model SAAB SF340A series airplanes, serial numbers -004 through -159 inclusive; and Model SAAB 340B series airplanes, serial numbers -160 through -459 inclusive; certificated in any category; on which a refuel/defuel panel having part number 7239160-505 is installed. Note 1: This AD applies to each airplane identified in the preceding applicability provision, regardless of whether it has been 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 (b) 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.

Required as indicated, unless accomplished previously. To prevent electrical shorts or arcing at the illuminated panel connector at the refuel/defuel panel, which could result in a potential ignition source for fuel vapors during fueling procedures, accomplish the following: Inspection and Corrective Actions (a) Within 6 months after the effective date of this AD, inspect the electrical connector on the refuel/defuel panel and the electrical connector on the illuminated placard to detect signs of fluid ingression or corrosion; and accomplish applicable corrective actions (including a sealing procedure, a cleaning/sealing procedure, and repair of corrosion on the refuel/defuel panel mounting plate); in accordance with Saab Service Bulletin 340-28-022, dated February 25, 2000. Alternative Methods of Compliance (b) 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, Transport Airplane Directorate. 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 (c) 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. Incorporation by Reference (d) The actions shall be done in accordance with Saab Service Bulletin 340-28-022, dated February 25, 2000. 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 Saab Aircraft AB, SAAB Aircraft Product Support, S-581.88, Linköping, Sweden. 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. Note 3: The subject of this AD is addressed in Swedish airworthiness directive 1-156, dated February 28, 2000. Effective Date (e) This amendment becomes effective on December 27, 2000. Issued in Renton, Washington, on November 8, 2000. Donald L. Riggin, Acting Manager,, Transport Airplane Directorate, Aircraft Certification Service. [FR Doc. 00-29213 Filed 11-21-00; 8:45 am] BILLING CODE 4910-13-P