AD 98-19-16 Airworthiness Directives; Aerospatiale Model ATR72-212A Series Airplanes

Models named: ATR72-212A series. Read the applicability below — it usually turns on serial or part numbers too.

Model ATR72-212A series airplanes, on which Aerospatiale Modification 4831 has not 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 rupture of the lower attachment fittings of the flap support beam due to fatigue, and consequent damage to the flaps, accomplish the following: (a) Prior to the accumulation of 24,000 total flight cycles, or within 500 flight cycles after the effective date of this AD, whichever occurs later, install bushings on the lower attachment fittings of the flap support beam in accordance with Avions de Transport Regional Service Bulletin ATR72-57-1020, dated March 9, 1998. (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. (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 installation shall be done in accordance with Avions de Transport Regional Service Bulletin ATR72-57-1020, dated March 9, 1998. 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. Note 3: The subject of this AD is addressed in French airworthiness directive 98-072-036(B), dated February 11, 1998, as revised by Erratum 98-072-036(B), dated February 25, 1998. (e) This amendment becomes effective on October 20, 1998. Issued in Renton, Washington, on September 4, 1998. Darrell M. Pederson, Acting Manager, Transport Airplane Directorate, Aircraft Certification Service. [FR Doc. 98-24407 Filed 9-14-98; 8:45 am] BILLING CODE 4910-13-U