The FAA has received a report on a Gulfstream Model G-V series airplane of loss of aileron control authority on final approach during landing. Investigation revealed that the outboard balance weight of the left aileron had detached and was wedged between the aileron and the rear beam of the wing. Further investigation revealed that the attachment hardware (all nine fastener assemblies) for the balance weight was missing. Supporting data show that all the attachment hardware was not properly installed during assembly. Separation of the balance weights of the aileron could result in jamming of the pilot's aileron control system, subsequent loss of aileron control, and consequent reduced controllability of the airplane.
Explanation of Relevant Service Information
We have reviewed and approved Gulfstream GV Customer Bulletin 104, dated June 9, 2003 (hereafter referred to as "the service bulletin"), which describes procedures for a one-time inspection ofthe balance weight installation of the left and right ailerons for correctly installed attachment components, and corrective action if necessary. The corrective action includes ensuring proper engagement of the self- locking nut by verifying that one to three threads of the screw/bolt are protruding, replacing any missing fasteners, and re-torqueing any loose fasteners. Accomplishment of the actions specified above is intended to adequately address the identified unsafe condition. Although the Accomplishment Instructions of the service bulletin describe procedures for recording and reporting compliance with the service bulletin, this AD does not require those actions.
Explanation of the Requirements of the Rule
Since an unsafe condition has been identified that is likely to exist or develop on other airplanes of the same type design registered in the United States, this AD requires accomplishment of the actions specified in the service bulletin described previously, except asdiscussed below.
Difference Between This AD and the Service Bulletin
The service bulletin refers only to an "inspection" of the balance weight installation of the left and right ailerons for correctly installed attachment components. We have determined that the procedures in the service bulletin should be described as a "general visual inspection." Note 1 has been included in this AD to define this type of inspection.
Changes to 14 CFR Part 39/Effect on the AD
On July 10, 2002, the FAA issued a new version of 14 CFR part 39 (67 FR 47997, July 22, 2002), which governs the FAA's airworthiness directives system. The regulation now includes material that relates to altered products, special flight permits, and alternative methods of compliance (AMOCs). Because we have now included this material in part 39, only the office authorized to approve AMOCs is identified in each individual AD.
Determination of Rule's Effective Date
Since a situation exists that requiresthe immediate adoption of this regulation, it is found that notice and opportunity for prior public comment hereon are impracticable, and that good cause exists for making this amendment effective in less than 30 days.
Comments Invited
Although this action is in the form of a final rule that involves requirements affecting flight safety and, thus, was not preceded by notice and an opportunity for public comment, comments are invited on this rule. Interested persons are invited to comment on this rule by submitting such written data, views, or arguments as they may desire. Communications shall identify the Rules Docket number and be submitted in triplicate to the address specified under the caption ADDRESSES. All communications received on or before the closing date for comments will be considered, and this rule may be amended in light of the comments received. Factual information that supports the commenter's ideas and suggestions is extremely helpful in evaluating the effectiveness of the AD action and determining whether additional rulemaking action would be needed.
Submit comments using the following format:
Organize comments issue-by-issue. For example, discuss a request to change the compliance time and a request to change the service bulletin reference as two separate issues.
For each issue, state what specific change to the AD is being requested.
Include justification (e.g., reasons or data) for each request.
Comments are specifically invited on the overall regulatory, economic, environmental, and energy aspects of the rule that might suggest a need to modify the rule. All comments submitted will be available, both before and after the closing date for comments, in the Rules Docket for examination by interested persons. A report that summarizes each FAA-public contact concerned with the substance of this AD will be filed in the Rules Docket.
Commenters wishing the FAA to acknowledge receipt of their comments submitted in response to this rule must submit a self-addressed, stamped postcard on which the following statement is made: "Comments to Docket Number 2003-NM-190-AD." The postcard will be date stamped and returned to the commenter.
Regulatory Impact
The regulations adopted herein 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. Therefore, it is determined that this final rule does not have federalism implications under Executive Order 13132.
The FAA has determined that this regulation is an emergency regulation that must be issued immediately to correct an unsafe condition in aircraft, and that it is not a "significant regulatory action" under Executive Order 12866. It has been determined further that this action involves an emergency regulation under DOT Regulatory Policies and Procedures (44 FR 11034, February 26, 1979).If it is determined that this emergency regulation otherwise would be significant under DOT Regulatory Policies and Procedures, a final regulatory evaluation will be prepared and placed in the Rules Docket. A copy of it, if filed, may be obtained from the Rules Docket at the location provided under the caption ADDRESSES.
List of Subjects in 14 CFR Part 39
Air transportation, Aircraft, Aviation safety, Incorporation by reference, Safety.
Adoption of the Amendment
Accordingly, pursuant to the authority delegated to me by the Administrator, the Federal Aviation Administration amends part 39 of the Federal Aviation Regulations (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.
39.13 [Amended]
2. Section 39.13 is amended by adding the following new airworthiness directive: