AD 97-09-11 Airworthiness Directives; Aerospatiale Model ATR42 and ATR72 Series Airplanes

Models named: ATR42, ATR72 series. Read the applicability below — it usually turns on serial or part numbers too.

Model ATR42 and ATR72 series airplanes on which Aerospatiale [[Page 24022]] Modification 04019 has been accomplished, certificated in any category. Note 1: This AD applies to each airplane identified in the preceding applicability provision, regardless of whether it has been otherwise 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 inadvertent opening of the passenger/crew door during unpressurized flight, or delays in opening the passenger/crew door during an emergency evacuation, accomplish the following: (a) Within 6 months after the effective date of this AD, modify the handle of the passenger/crew door by changing its configuration to an ``up-to-open'' configuration in accordance with Aerospatiale Service Bulletin ATR42-52-0072 (for Model ATR42 series airplanes), or ATR72-52-1040 (for Model ATR72 series airplanes), both dated October 2, 1995. (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, Standardization Branch, ANM-113, 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, Standardization Branch, ANM-113. Note 2: Information concerning the existence of approved alternative methods of compliance with this AD, if any, may be obtained from the Standardization Branch, ANM-113. (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. (d) The modification shall be done in accordance with Aerospatiale Service Bulletin ATR42-52-0072, dated October 2, 1995, or Aerospatiale Service Bulletin ATR72-52-1040, dated October 2, 1995, 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 Aerospatiale, 316 Route de Bayonne, 31060 Toulouse, Cedex 03, 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. (e) This amendment becomes effective on June 6, 1997. Issued in Renton, Washington, on April 24, 1997. Neil D. Schalekamp, Acting Manager, Transport Airplane Directorate, Aircraft Certification Service. [FR Doc. 97-11197 Filed 5-1-97; 8:45 am] BILLING CODE 4910-13-U