AD 2004-11-02 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 with serial numbers 004 through 159 inclusive, and Model SAAB 340B series airplanes with serial numbers 160 through 459 inclusive, certificated in any category.

Required as indicated, unless accomplished previously. To prevent fatigue cracks in the outer flange of the nacelle frame, which could result in reduced structural integrity of the nacelle supporting structure, accomplish the following: Inspections (a) Perform detailed, ultrasonic, eddy current, and dye penetrant inspections; as applicable; of the internal and external structure of the nacelles for cracks, deformations, or other damage; in accordance with the Accomplishment Instructions of Saab Service Bulletin 340-54-043, dated December 18, 2002. Do the inspections at the applicable times specified by paragraph 1.D, “Compliance,” of the service bulletin, except as required by paragraphs (b) and (c) of this AD. Note 1: For the purposes of this AD, a detailed 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) Where the service bulletin specified in paragraph (a) of this AD specifies a compliance time relative to the release date of the service bulletin, this AD requires compliance following the effective date of this AD. (c) Where the service bulletin specified in paragraph (a) of this AD uses “accumulated flights” and “flights” for compliance times, this AD requires operators to use “total flight cycles” and “flight cycles.” Repair (d) If any crack, deformation, or damage is found during any inspection required by paragraph (a) of this AD, before further flight, replace the fire deck attachment angle with a new angle, and accomplish repairs, as applicable, in accordance with the Accomplishment Instructions of Saab Service Bulletin 340-54-043, dated December 18, 2002. Where the service bulletin specifies contacting the manufacturer for disposition of repairs, before further flight, repair per a method approved by the Manager, International Branch, ANM-116, FAA, Transport Airplane Directorate; or the Luftfartsvarket (or its delegated agent). Alternative Methods of Compliance (e) In accordance with 14 CFR 39.19, the Manager, International Branch, ANM-116, FAA, is authorized to approve alternative methods of compliance with this AD. Incorporation by Reference (f) Unless otherwise specified in this AD, the actions shall be done in accordance with Saab Service Bulletin 340-54-043, dated December 18, 2002. 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, Linko ping, Sweden. Copies may be inspected at the FAA, Transport Airplane Directorate, 1601 Lind Avenue, SW., Renton, Washington; or at the National Archives and Records Administration (NARA). For information on the availability of this material at NARA, call (202) 741-6030, or go to: http://www.archives.gov/federal_register/code_of_federal_regulations/ibr_locations.html. Note 2: The subject of this AD is addressed in Swedish airworthiness directive No. 1-176, dated December 20, 2002. Effective Date (g) This amendment becomes effective on July 7, 2004. Issued in Renton, Washington, on May 18, 2004. Kevin M. Mullin, Acting Manager, Transport Airplane Directorate, Aircraft Certification Service. [FR Doc. 04-11958 Filed 6-1-04; 8:45 am] BILLING CODE 4910-13-P