AD 2001-22-02 Airworthiness Directives; Airbus Model A300 B2 and B4 Series Airplanes

Models named: A300 B2, B4 series. Read the applicability below — it usually turns on serial or part numbers too.

Model A300 B2 and B4 series airplanes, 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 (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 failure of both spring boxes of the variable lever arm (VLA) due to corrosion damage, which could result in loss of rudder control and consequent reduced controllability of the airplane, accomplish the following: Inspection/Corrective Actions (a) Within 10 days after the effective date of this AD: Determine the part and amendment numbers of the VLA of the rudder control system to verify the parts were installed using the correct standard, per Airbus All Operators Telex (AOT) A300-27A0196, dated September 20, 2001. (1) If the part and amendment numbers shown are not correct, as specified in the AOT, before further flight, do a detailed visual inspection of the VLA tie rod for damage (bent or ruptured rod) per the AOT. (i) If the tie rod is damaged, replace the VLA with a new VLA per the AOT. Such replacement ends the requirements of this AD. (ii) If the tie rod is not damaged, no further action is required by this AD. (2) If the part and amendment numbers shown are correct, no further action is required by this AD. 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.” 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, Transport Airplane Directorate, 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 3: 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 Airbus All Operators Telex A300-27A0196, dated September 20, 2001. 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. Note 4: The subject of this AD is addressed in French telegraphic airworthiness directive T 2001-447(B), dated September 24, 2001. Effective Date (e) This amendment becomes effective on November 13, 2001. Issued in Renton, Washington, on October 18, 2001. Ali Bahrami, Acting Manager, Transport Airplane Directorate, Aircraft Certification Service. [FR Doc. 01-26860 Filed 10-26-01; 8:45 am] BILLING CODE 4910-13-P