AD 99-09-15

Discussion The FAA has received a report of an incident where a Raytheon Beech Model 1900D airplane temporarily lost aileron and elevator control when the control column restricted. After applying pressure several times to the control wheel, the airplane pilot was able to free the system and regain full control. Upon investigation of the incident, maintenance personnel found that the electrical/avionics wiring that is located forward of the instrument panel was entangled in the flight control system "T" column. To correct the problem, the wiring was secured away from the control column assembly.

Relevant Service Information Raytheon has issued Mandatory Service Bulletin SB 27-3232, Issued: March, 1999, which specifies procedures for inspecting for interference and inadequate clearance between the flight control mechanism and any component located forward of the instrument panel.

Raytheon has also issued Safety Communique No. 149, dated August 1998; and Safety Communique No. 149, Rev. 1, dated November 1998. These service documents pertain to the flight control clearance condition and contain basically the same information as Mandatory Service Bulletin SB 27-3232, Issued: March, 1999.

The FAA's Determination After examining the circumstances and reviewing all available information related to the incidents described above, including the relevant service information, the FAA has determined that AD action should be taken to prevent any components or wiring from interfering with the flight control mechanism caused by inadequate clearance, which could result in reduced or loss of aileron and/or elevator control.

Explanation of the Provisions of the AD Since an unsafe condition has been identified that is likely to exist or develop in other Raytheon Beech Models A36, B36TC, 58, 58A, C90A, B200, B300, and 1900D airplanes of the same type design, the FAA is issuing an AD. This AD requires inspecting for interference or inadequate clearance between the flight control mechanism and any component located forward of the instrument panel. If interference or inadequate clearance is found, this AD requires securing all components so that they are clear of the flight control mechanism. Accomplishment of the required actions specified in this AD is required in accordance with Raytheon Mandatory Service Bulletin SB 27-3232, Issued: March, 1999.

Determination of the Effective Date of the AD Since a situation exists (possible loss of aileron and/or elevator control) that requires the immediate adoption of this regulation, it is found that notice and opportunity for public prior 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 immediate flight safety and, thus, was not preceded by notice and opportunity to 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 should identify the Rules Docket number and be submitted in triplicate to the address specified above. 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.

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 summarizeseach 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 No. 99-CE-11-AD." The postcard will be date stamped and returned to the commenter.

Regulatory Impact The regulations adopted herein will not have substantial direct effects 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, in accordance with Executive Order 12612, it is determined that this final rule does not have sufficient federalism implications to warrant the preparation of a Federalism Assessment.

The FAA has determined that this regulation is an emergency regulation that must be issued immediately to correct an unsafe condition in aircraft, and 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 (otherwise, an evaluation is not required). A copy of it, if filed, may be obtained from the Rules Docket.

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 a new airworthiness directive (AD) to read as follows: