Discussion
We received a report of an incident involving a pilot flying a Model LC41-550FG airplane. The pilot experienced a roll (aileron) system control jam, which prevented him from rolling the airplane in one direction. Investigation revealed the cause of the problem to be foreign material lodged in a linear bearing (part number LA57272500), which supports a push-pull tube in the aileron control system.
This same bearing is used in two places (left and right) in the aileron control system and four places (two left and two right) in the elevator control system. The foreign material (hardened pieces of adhesive material), which was apparently present at the time of airplane delivery, randomly lodged in the linear bearing after approximately 200 flight hours. This shows that potential exists for similar events to occur at any time if foreign material is present near one of these bearings.
The internal control systems are identical for allthree airplane models affected by this AD. Jamming or roughness in the control systems also interferes with the proper functioning of the autopilot.
This condition, if not corrected, could result in jamming of the aileron and elevator control systems, which could result in loss of control.
Relevant Service Information
We reviewed Columbia Mandatory Service Bulletin SB-07-002, dated March 14, 2007. The service information describes procedures for adding information to the "Before Starting Engine'' checklist and inspecting the aileron and the elevator linear bearings and control rods for foreign object debris, scarring, or damage.
FAA's Determination and Requirements of This AD
We are issuing this AD because we evaluated all the information and determined the unsafe condition described previously is likely to exist or develop on other products of the same type design. This AD requires adding information to the Limitations section of the AFM. This AD also requires you to repetitively inspect the aileron and the elevator linear bearings and control rods for foreign object debris, scarring, or damage and take all necessary corrective actions.
In preparing this rule, we contacted type clubs and aircraft operators to get technical information and information on operational and economic impacts. We did not receive any information through these contacts. If received, we would have included a discussion of any information that may have influenced this action in the rulemaking docket.
FAA's Determination of the Effective Date
Since an unsafe condition exists that requires the immediate adoption of this AD, we determined that notice and opportunity for public comment before issuing this AD are impracticable, and that good cause exists for making this amendment effective in fewer than 30 days.
Comments Invited
This AD is a final rule that involves requirements affecting flight safety, and we did not precede it by notice and an opportunity for public comment. We invite you to send any written relevant data, views, or arguments regarding this AD. Send your comments to an address listed under the ADDRESSES section. Include the docket number "FAA-2007- 27628; Directorate Identifier 2007-CE-025-AD'' at the beginning of your comments. We specifically invite comments on the overall regulatory, economic, environmental, and energy aspects of the AD. We will consider all comments received by the closing date and may amend the AD in light of those comments.
We will post all comments we receive, without change, to http://dms.dot.gov , including any personal information you provide. We will also post a report summarizing each substantive verbal contact we receive concerning this AD.
Authority for This Rulemaking
Title 49 of the United States Code specifies the FAA's authority to issue rules on aviation safety. Subtitle I, Section 106, describes the authority of the FAA Administrator. Subtitle VII, Aviation Programs, describes in more detail the scope of the Agency's authority.
We are issuing this rulemaking under the authority described in Subtitle VII, Part A, Subpart III, Section 44701, "General requirements.'' Under that section, Congress charges the FAA with promoting safe flight of civil aircraft in air commerce by prescribing regulations for practices, methods, and procedures the Administrator finds necessary for safety in air commerce. This regulation is within the scope of that authority because it addresses an unsafe condition that is likely to exist or develop on products identified in this rulemaking action.
Regulatory Findings
We determined that this AD will not have federalism implications under Executive Order 13132. This AD will not have a substantial direct effect on the States, on the relationship between the national government and the States, or on the distribution of power and responsibilities among the various levels of government.
For the reasons discussed above, I certify that this AD:
(1) Is not a "significant regulatory action'' under Executive Order 12866;
(2) Is not a "significant rule'' under DOT Regulatory Policies and Procedures (44 FR 11034, February 26, 1979); and
(3) Will not have a significant economic impact, positive or negative, on a substantial number of small entities under the criteria of the Regulatory Flexibility Act.
We prepared a regulatory evaluation of the estimated costs to comply with this AD and placed it in the AD docket.
Examining the AD Docket
You may examine the AD docket that contains the AD, the regulatory evaluation, any comments received, and other information on the Internet at http://dms.dot.gov; or in person at the Docket Management Facility between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m., Monday through Friday, except Federal holidays. The Docket Office (telephone (800) 647-5227) is located at the street address stated in the ADDRESSES section. Comments will be available in the AD docketshortly after receipt.
List of Subjects in 14 CFR Part 39
Air transportation, Aircraft, Aviation safety, Incorporation by reference, Safety.
Adoption of the Amendment
Accordingly, under the authority delegated to me by the Administrator, the FAA amends 14 CFR part 39 as follows:
PART 39--AIRWORTHINESS DIRECTIVES
1. The authority citation for part 39 continues to read as follows:
Authority: 49 U.S.C. 106(g), 40113, 44701.
Sec. 39.13 [Amended]
2. The FAA amends Sec. 39.13 by adding the following new airworthiness directive (AD):