AD 2001-18-12 Airworthiness Directives; Boeing Model 767-200, -300, -300F and -400ER Series Airplanes

Models named: 767-200, -300, -300F series, 767-400ER series. Read the applicability below — it usually turns on serial or part numbers too.

Model 767-200, -300, and -300F series airplanes, as listed in Boeing Alert Service Bulletin 767-24A0139, and Model 767-400ER series airplanes as listed in Boeing Alert Service Bulletin 767-24A0140, both dated February 9, 2001; certificated in any category. 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 (c) 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 find and fix discrepancies of the wire bundles located between the P50 panel and the nose wheel well structure, which could result in electrical arcing, smoke, or fire in the cabin, and failure of certain systems essential to safe flight and landing of the airplane; accomplish the following: Repetitive Inspections/Corrective Actions (a) Within 90 days after the effective date of this AD: Do a detailed visual inspection of the wire bundles between the P50 panel and the nose wheel structure to find discrepancies (i.e., chafed or broken wires, damaged insulation or conductors, inadequate clearance between the wire bundle, insulation, and nose wheel well structure), according to Boeing Alert Service Bulletin 767-24A0139 (for Model 767-200, -300, and -300F series airplanes), or 767-24A0140 (for Model 767-400ER series airplanes), both dated February 9, 2001; as applicable. Repeat the inspection every 6,000 flight hours or 18 months, whichever comes first. Note 2: For the purposes of this AD, a detailed visual inspection is defined as: “An intensive visual examination of a specific structural area, system, installation, or assembly to detect damage, failure, or irregularity. Available lighting is normally supplemented with a direct source of good lighting at intensity deemed appropriate by the inspector. Inspection aids such as mirror, magnifying lenses, etc., may be used. Surface cleaning and elaborate access procedures may be required.” (b) If any discrepancy is found after doing the inspection required by paragraph (a) of this AD: Before further flight, do the applicable corrective actions (i.e., repair or replace any damaged wires or worn components, install protective sleeving over the wire bundles, relocate the wire bundle to provide adequate clearance), according to Figure 1 of the Accomplishment Instructions of Boeing Alert Service Bulletin 767-24A0139 (for Model 767-200, -300, and -300F series airplanes), or 767-24A0140 (for Model 767-400ER series airplanes), both dated February 9, 2001; as applicable. Then repeat the inspection required by paragraph (a) of this AD at the time specified. Alternative Methods of Compliance (c) 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, Seattle Aircraft Certification Office (ACO), FAA. Operators shall submit their requests through an appropriate FAA Principal Maintenance Inspector, who may add comments and then send it to the Manager, Seattle ACO. Note 3: Information concerning the existence of approved alternative methods of compliance with this AD, if any, may be obtained from the Seattle ACO. Special Flight Permits (d) 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 (e) The actions shall be done in accordance with Boeing Alert Service Bulletin 767-24A0140, dated February 9, 2001; or Boeing Alert Service Bulletin 767-24A0139, dated February 9, 2001; as applicable. 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 Boeing Commercial Airplane Group, P.O. Box 3707, Seattle, Washington 98124-2207. 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 (f) This amendment becomes effective on September 28, 2001. Issued in Renton, Washington, on September 4, 2001. Ali Bahrami, Acting Manager, Transport Airplane Directorate, Aircraft Certification Service. [FR Doc. 01-22671 Filed 9-12-01; 8:45 am] BILLING CODE 4910-13-U