81_FR_24780 81 FR 24699 - Airworthiness Directives; General Electric Company Turbofan Engines

81 FR 24699 - Airworthiness Directives; General Electric Company Turbofan Engines

DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION
Federal Aviation Administration

Federal Register Volume 81, Issue 81 (April 27, 2016)

Page Range24699-24701
FR Document2016-09686

We are adopting a new airworthiness directive (AD) for all General Electric Company (GE) CF6-80C2A1, CF6-80C2A2, CF6-80C2A3, CF6- 80C2A5, CF6-80C2A5F, CF6-80C2A8, CF6-80C2B1, CF6-80C2B1F, CF6-80C2B1F1, CF6-80C2B1F2, CF6-80C2B2, CF6-80C2B2F, CF6-80C2B3F, CF6-80C2B4, CF6- 80C2B4F, CF6-80C2B5F, CF6-80C2B6, CF6-80C2B6F, CF6-80C2B6FA, CF6- 80C2B7F, CF6-80C2B8F, CF6-80C2D1F, CF6-80C2L1F, CF6-80C2K1F and CF6- 80E1A1, CF6-80E1A2, CF6-80E1A3, CF6-80E1A4, and CF6-80E1A4/B turbofan engines. This AD was prompted by reports of a burn-through of the accessory heat shield during an engine fire, propagating the fire into the accessory compartment and igniting additional flammable fuel source. This AD requires replacing the accessory heat shield assembly. We are issuing this AD to prevent fires from propagating into the accessory compartment, resulting in an uncontrolled engine fire, and damage to the airplane.

Federal Register, Volume 81 Issue 81 (Wednesday, April 27, 2016)
[Federal Register Volume 81, Number 81 (Wednesday, April 27, 2016)]
[Rules and Regulations]
[Pages 24699-24701]
From the Federal Register Online  [www.thefederalregister.org]
[FR Doc No: 2016-09686]


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DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION

Federal Aviation Administration

14 CFR Part 39

[Docket No. FAA-2015-4344; Directorate Identifier 2015-NE-32-AD; 
Amendment 39-18486; AD 2016-08-10]
RIN 2120-AA64


Airworthiness Directives; General Electric Company Turbofan 
Engines

AGENCY: Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), DOT.

ACTION: Final rule.

-----------------------------------------------------------------------

SUMMARY: We are adopting a new airworthiness directive (AD) for all 
General Electric Company (GE) CF6-80C2A1, CF6-80C2A2, CF6-80C2A3, CF6-
80C2A5, CF6-80C2A5F, CF6-80C2A8, CF6-80C2B1, CF6-80C2B1F, CF6-80C2B1F1, 
CF6-80C2B1F2, CF6-80C2B2, CF6-80C2B2F, CF6-80C2B3F, CF6-80C2B4, CF6-
80C2B4F, CF6-80C2B5F, CF6-80C2B6, CF6-80C2B6F, CF6-80C2B6FA, CF6-
80C2B7F, CF6-80C2B8F, CF6-80C2D1F, CF6-80C2L1F, CF6-80C2K1F and CF6-
80E1A1, CF6-80E1A2, CF6-80E1A3, CF6-80E1A4, and CF6-80E1A4/B turbofan 
engines. This AD was prompted by reports of a burn-through of the 
accessory heat shield during an engine fire, propagating the fire into 
the accessory compartment and igniting additional flammable fuel 
source. This AD requires replacing the accessory heat shield assembly. 
We are issuing this AD to prevent fires from propagating into the 
accessory compartment, resulting in an uncontrolled engine fire, and 
damage to the airplane.

DATES: This AD is effective June 1, 2016.
    The Director of the Federal Register approved the incorporation by 
reference of certain publications listed in this AD as of June 1, 2016.

ADDRESSES: For service information identified in this final rule, 
contact General Electric Company, GE Aviation, Room 285, 1 Neumann Way, 
Cincinnati, OH 45215; phone: 513-552-3272; email: 
[email protected]. You may view this service information at 
the FAA, Engine & Propeller Directorate, 1200 District Avenue, 
Burlington, MA. For information on the availability of this material at 
the FAA, call 781-238-7125. It is also available on the Internet at 
http://www.regulations.gov by searching for and locating Docket No. 
FAA-2015-4344.

Examining the AD Docket

    You may examine the AD docket on the Internet at http://www.regulations.gov by searching for and locating Docket No. FAA-2015-
4344; or in person at the Docket Management Facility between 9 a.m. and 
5 p.m., Monday through Friday, except Federal holidays. The AD docket 
contains this AD, the regulatory evaluation, any comments received, and 
other information. The address for the Docket Office (phone: 800-647-
5527) is Document Management Facility, U.S. Department of 
Transportation, Docket Operations, M-30, West Building Ground Floor, 
Room W12-140, 1200 New Jersey Avenue SE., Washington, DC 20590.

FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Herman Mak, Aerospace Engineer, Engine 
Certification Office, FAA, Engine & Propeller Directorate, 1200 
District Avenue, Burlington, MA 01803; phone: 781-238-7147; fax: 781-
238-7199; email: [email protected].

SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: 

Discussion

    We issued a notice of proposed rulemaking (NPRM) to amend 14 CFR 
part 39 by adding an AD that would apply to GE CF6-80C2A1, CF6-80C2A2, 
CF6-80C2A3, CF6-80C2A5, CF6-80C2A5F, CF6-80C2A8, CF6-80C2B1, CF6-
80C2B1F, CF6-80C2B1F1, CF6-80C2B1F2, CF6-80C2B2, CF6-80C2B2F, CF6-
80C2B3F, CF6-80C2B4, CF6-80C2B4F, CF6-80C2B5F, CF6-80C2B6, CF6-80C2B6F, 
CF6-80C2B6FA, CF6-80C2B7F, CF6-80C2B8F, CF6-80C2D1F, CF6-80C2L1F, and 
CF6-80C2K1F turbofan engines. This AD that would also apply to CF6-
80E1A1, CF6-80E1A2, CF6-80E1A3, CF6-80E1A4, and CF6-80E1A4/B turbofan 
engines. The NPRM published in the Federal Register on December 7, 2015 
(80 FR 75952). The NPRM was prompted by reports of a burn-through of 
the accessory heat shield during an engine fire leading to an accessory 
compartment fire. A fire burns through the accessory heat shield and 
ignites the integrated drive generator (IDG) and main fuel pump, which 
supports further combustion. The existing accessory heat shield 
assembly leaves a large area above the sensitive accessories, such as 
the IDG and the main fuel pump, without adequate protection. A total of 
three burn-through events have occurred. The NPRM proposed to require 
replacing the accessory heat shield assembly. We are issuing this AD to 
prevent an uncontrolled engine fire, and damage to the airplane.

Comments

    We gave the public the opportunity to participate in developing 
this AD. The following presents the comments received on the NPRM (80 
FR 75952, December 7, 2015) and the FAA's response to each comment.

Support for the NPRM (80 FR 75952, December 7, 2015)

    The Boeing Company and the National Transportation Safety Board 
expressed support for the NPRM (80 FR 75952, December 7, 2015).

Revision to Service Information

    We revised the Discussion section and Applicability paragraph (e) 
of this AD to include all the GE CF6-80C2 and CF6-80E1 turbofan engine 
models.

Request To Change Summary

    GE requested that we revise the Summary paragraph of this AD to 
correct the number of events and clarify the event description.
    We agree. Only three of the originally specified five events 
resulted in heat shield burn-throughs. We revised the Summary paragraph 
of this AD to correct the number of events and clarify the event 
description.

Request To Revise the Other Related Service Information Paragraph

    GE requested that we revise the Other Related Service Information 
paragraph of this AD to remove GE Service Bulletin (SB) CF6-80C2 S/B 
72-1523, dated September 22, 2015. This SB only applies to the military 
variant of the engine.
    We disagree. The military variant of the engine is also certified 
by the FAA. We did not change this AD.

Request To Revise the Costs of Compliance

    GE, KLM Royal Dutch Airlines (KLM), All Nippon Airways (ANA), and 
Federal Express (FedEx) requested that we revise the Costs of 
Compliance paragraph of this AD to correct the parts cost used in the 
calculations.
    We agree. We considered the costs of all the parts needed to comply 
with this AD and revised the costs per engine to $14,207 and the total 
cost to U.S. operators to $13,680,920.

[[Page 24700]]

Request To Change Applicability

    KLM requested that we exclude GE CF6-80E1 engines from the 
Applicability paragraph of this AD. KLM reasoned that the NTSB safety 
recommendation did not address GE CF6-80E1 engines and CF6-80E1 engines 
have not experienced any sump fires to date.
    We disagree. Although the NTSB did not address GE CF6-80E1 engines, 
the designs of the GE CF6-80C2 and CF6-80E1 engines are substantially 
similar. Therefore, the unsafe condition addressed by this AD is likely 
to exist or develop on the GE CF6-80E1 engines. We did not change this 
AD.

Request To Change Compliance

    GE requests that the following part numbers (P/Ns) be removed from 
Table 1 of GE SB 72-1520: P/N 2022M47G01, P/N 2022M81P01, P/N 
2022M85G01, and P/N 2023M20G01. These P/Ns are used only on GE CF6-
80C2B6FA models, a military application, and contain a different heat 
shield design.
    We disagree. The specified P/Ns are not listed in Table 1 of GE SB 
72-1520 and therefore this comment is not applicable. We did not change 
this AD.

Request To Change Definition

    GE, United Airlines, KLM, Lufthansa, Lufthansa Cargo, Lufthansa 
Technik, and FedEx requested that we provide a more accurate 
description of flange separation and exclude certain situations from 
the definition of a shop visit. The commenters reasoned that this would 
provide clarity and reduce the undue economic and operational burden of 
complying with this AD earlier than necessary.
    We agree. We revised the Definition paragraph of this AD to clarify 
the description of flange separation and include specific conditions 
that do not qualify as shop visits.

Request To Delay the Effective Date

    GE and Delta Air Lines (Delta) requested that we delay the 
effective date of this AD. GE reasoned that the revised service 
bulletin addressing the lack of repair instructions for accessory heat 
shield assembly, P/N 1313M94G09, will not be available until after the 
expected effective date of this AD.
    We disagree. The current effective date of this AD is needed to 
address the unsafe condition for the affected fleet. Any party may make 
a request for an Alternative Method of Compliance (AMOC) to this AD 
using the procedures listed in this AD. Any requests for an AMOC are 
reviewed and responded to accordingly. We did not change this AD.

Request To Change Applicability

    ANA requested limiting the Applicability paragraph of this AD to a 
particular maintenance, repair, and overhaul (MRO) shop where improper 
maintenance occurred leading to fire. ANA reasoned that the latest 2010 
sump fire leading to heat shield burn-through was the result of 
improper maintenance at a particular MRO.
    We disagree. This AD addresses the insufficient fire protection 
design of the heat shield to prevent secondary fire damage. This is 
independent from the cause of fire in the engine. We did not change 
this AD.

Request To Change Effectivity

    Lufthansa, Lufthansa Cargo, and Lufthansa Technik requested that we 
not mandate heat shield rework or replacement. Lufthansa reasoned that 
none of their customers operating GE CF6-80C2/80A engines have 
experienced a compressor rear frame (CRF) sump fire.
    We disagree. Complying with this AD is necessary to correct the 
unsafe condition of heat shield burn-through. The heat shield rework or 
replacement is needed to prevent fires from propagating into the 
accessory compartment, leading to a larger engine fire and subsequent 
damage to the airplane. We did not change this AD.

Request for Allowance of Creating and Marking Serial Numbers

    Delta requested we allow operators to both create and mark 
identification numbers on heat shields that are not currently marked. 
Delta has received reports that there are illegible identification 
markings on heat shields.
    We partially agree. We agree there is a lack of information about 
heat shields with illegible P/Ns in this AD. We revised the Compliance 
section of this AD to address heat shields with illegible P/Ns.
    We disagree with allowing operators to create and mark 
identification numbers on heat shields as this does not resolve the 
unsafe condition and is beyond the scope of this AD.

Request To Change Applicability

    GE commented that heat shield, P/N 1643M23G12, is also affected by 
the unsafe condition described in this AD.
    We agree. We added heat shield, P/N 1643M23G12, to the 
applicability of this AD.

Conclusion

    We reviewed the relevant data, considered the comments received, 
and determined that air safety and the public interest require adopting 
this AD with the changes described previously. We have determined that 
these minor changes:
     [Agr]re consistent with the intent that was proposed in 
the NPRM (80 FR 75952, December 7, 2015) for correcting the unsafe 
condition; and
     Do not add any additional burden upon the public than was 
already proposed in the NPRM (80 FR 75952, December 7, 2015).
    We also determined that these changes will not increase the 
economic burden on any operator or increase the scope of this AD.

Related Service Information Under 1 CFR Part 51

    We reviewed GE SB CF6-80C2 S/B 72-1520, dated September 22, 2015 
and GE SB CF6-80E1 S/B 72-0525, dated September 22, 2015. These SBs 
describe the procedures for removing and replacing the accessory heat 
shield assembly. This service information is reasonably available 
because the interested parties have access to it through their normal 
course of business or by the means identified in the ADDRESSES section.

Other Related Service Information

    We reviewed GE SB CF6-80E1 S/B 72-0504, dated October 24, 2014. 
This SB describes procedures for quick-turn workscope procedure to 
replace CF6-80E1 stage 1 high-pressure turbine blades. We also reviewed 
GE SB CF6-80C2 S/B 72-1516, Revision 2, dated November 6, 2015. This SB 
describes procedures for replacement of the CRF assembly, oil manifold, 
air tubes, and support brackets. We also reviewed GE SB CF6-80C2 S/B 
72-1523, dated September 22, 2015. This SB describes procedures for 
removing and replacing the accessory heat shield assembly.

Costs of Compliance

    We estimate that this AD affects 935 engines installed on airplanes 
of U.S. registry. We also estimate that it will take about 5 hours per 
engine to comply with this AD. The average labor rate is $85 per hour. 
Parts cost about $14,207 per engine. Based on these figures, we 
estimate the total cost of this AD to U.S. operators to be $13,680,920.

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.

[[Page 24701]]

    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

    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),
    (3) Will not affect intrastate aviation in Alaska to the extent 
that it justifies making a regulatory distinction, and
    (4) 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.

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

0
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]

0
2. The FAA amends Sec.  39.13 by adding the following new airworthiness 
directive (AD):

2016-08-10 General Electric Company: Amendment 39-18486; Docket No. 
FAA-2015-4344; Directorate Identifier 2015-NE-32-AD.

(a) Effective Date

    This AD is effective June 1, 2016.

(b) Affected ADs

    None.

(c) Applicability

    This AD applies to all General Electric Company (GE) CF6-80C2A1, 
CF6-80C2A2, CF6-80C2A3, CF6-80C2A5, CF6-80C2A5F, CF6-80C2A8, CF6-
80C2B1, CF6-80C2B1F, CF6-80C2B1F1, CF6-80C2B1F2, CF6-80C2B2, CF6-
80C2B2F, CF6-80C2B3F, CF6-80C2B4, CF6-80C2B4F, CF6-80C2B5F, CF6-
80C2B6, CF6-80C2B6F, CF6-80C2B6FA, CF6-80C2B7F, CF6-80C2B8F, CF6-
80C2D1F, CF6-80C2L1F, CF6-80C2K1F turbofan engines. This AD also 
applies to CF6-80E1A1, CF6-80E1A2, CF6-80E1A3, CF6-80E1A4, and CF6-
80E1A4/B turbofan engines.

(d) Unsafe Condition

    This AD was prompted by reports of a burn-through of the 
accessory heat shield during an engine fire, leading to an accessory 
compartment fire. We are issuing this AD to prevent uncontrolled 
engine fire, and damage to the airplane.

(e) Compliance

    Comply with this AD within the compliance times specified, 
unless already done.
    (1) For CF6-80C2 engines, at the next engine shop visit after 
the effective date of this AD, remove from service accessory heat 
shield assembly, part number (P/N) 1643M23G12, and any other 
accessory heat shield assembly listed by P/N in Table 1 of GE 
Service Bulletin (SB) CF6-80C2 S/B 72-1520, dated September 22, 
2015. Install an accessory heat shield assembly eligible for 
installation.
    (2) For CF6-80E1 engines, at the next engine shop visit after 
the effective date of this AD, remove from service accessory heat 
shield assemblies listed by P/N in Table 1 of GE SB CF6-80E1 S/B 72-
0525, dated September 22, 2015. Install an accessory heat shield 
assembly eligible for installation.
    (3) Remove any heat shield assembly from service if the 
accessory heat shield assembly part number marking is illegible and 
the documentation associated with the part cannot properly identify 
the part.

(f) Installation Prohibition

    After the effective date of this AD, do not install any 
accessory heat shield assembly, P/N 1643M23G12; or any accessory 
heat shield assembly listed by P/N in Table 1 of GE SB CF6-80C2 S/B 
72-1520, dated September 22, 2015; or in Table 1 of GE SB CF6-80E1 
S/B 72-0525, dated September 22, 2015; into any engine.

(g) Definition

    For the purpose of this AD, an engine shop visit is defined as 
the induction of an engine into the shop for maintenance involving 
the separation of any major mating engine flanges, except that the 
separation of engine flanges solely for the following purposes is 
not considered a shop visit:
    (1) Transportation without subsequent engine maintenance.
    (2) Replacement of the turbine rear frame.
    (3) Removal of the top or bottom high-pressure compressor (HPC) 
case, or both, for HPC airfoil maintenance or replacement of 
variable stator vane bushing or lever arms.
    (4) Quick-turn workscope procedure to replace CF6-80E1 stage 1 
high-pressure turbine (HPT) blades per CF6-80E1 SB 72-0504 R00 
ENGINE--General (72-00-00)--Quick-Turn Workscope Procedure to 
Replace CF6-80E1 Stage 1 HPT Blades.
    (5) Replacement of compressor rear frame assembly, new oil 
manifold, air tubes and support brackets per CF6-80C2 SB 72-1516 R02 
ENGINE--Compressor Rear Frame Assembly (72-34-00)--New Oil Manifold, 
Air Tubes and Support Brackets.

(h) Alternative Methods of Compliance (AMOCs)

    The Manager, Engine Certification Office, FAA, may approve AMOCs 
to this AD. Use the procedures found in 14 CFR 39.19 to make your 
request. You may email your request to: [email protected].

(i) Related Information

    For more information about this AD, contact Herman Mak, 
Aerospace Engineer, Engine Certification Office, FAA, Engine & 
Propeller Directorate, 1200 District Avenue, Burlington, MA 01803; 
phone: 781-238-7147; fax: 781-238-7199; email: [email protected].

(j) Material Incorporated by Reference

    (1) The Director of the Federal Register approved the 
incorporation by reference (IBR) of the service information listed 
in this paragraph under 5 U.S.C. 552(a) and 1 CFR part 51.
    (2) You must use this service information as applicable to do 
the actions required by this AD, unless the AD specifies otherwise.
    (i) General Electric Company (GE) Service Bulletin (SB) CF6-80C2 
S/B 72-1520, dated September 22, 2015.
    (ii) GE SB CF6-80E1 S/B 72-0525, dated September 22, 2015.
    (3) For GE service information identified in this AD, contact 
General Electric Company, GE Aviation, Room 285, 1 Neumann Way, 
Cincinnati, OH 45215; phone: 513-552-3272; email: 
[email protected].
    (4) You may view this service information at FAA, Engine & 
Propeller Directorate, 1200 District Avenue, Burlington, MA. For 
information on the availability of this material at the FAA, call 
781-238-7125.
    (5) You may view this service information at the National 
Archives and Records Administration (NARA). For information on the 
availability of this material at NARA, call 202-741-6030, or go to: 
http://www.archives.gov/federal-register/cfr/ibr-locations.html.

    Issued in Burlington, Massachusetts, on April 7, 2016.
Colleen M. D'Alessandro,
Manager, Engine & Propeller Directorate, Aircraft Certification 
Service.
[FR Doc. 2016-09686 Filed 4-26-16; 8:45 am]
 BILLING CODE 4910-13-P



                                                                 Federal Register / Vol. 81, No. 81 / Wednesday, April 27, 2016 / Rules and Regulations                                         24699

                                                202–741–6030, or go to: http://                         FAA, Engine & Propeller Directorate,                  the IDG and the main fuel pump,
                                                www.archives.gov/federal-register/cfr/ibr-              1200 District Avenue, Burlington, MA.                 without adequate protection. A total of
                                                locations.html.                                         For information on the availability of                three burn-through events have
                                                  Issued in Burlington, Massachusetts, on               this material at the FAA, call 781–238–               occurred. The NPRM proposed to
                                                April 7, 2016.                                          7125. It is also available on the Internet            require replacing the accessory heat
                                                Colleen M. D’Alessandro,                                at http://www.regulations.gov by                      shield assembly. We are issuing this AD
                                                Manager, Engine & Propeller Directorate,                searching for and locating Docket No.                 to prevent an uncontrolled engine fire,
                                                Aircraft Certification Service.                         FAA–2015–4344.                                        and damage to the airplane.
                                                [FR Doc. 2016–09687 Filed 4–26–16; 8:45 am]
                                                                                                        Examining the AD Docket                               Comments
                                                BILLING CODE 4910–13–P
                                                                                                          You may examine the AD docket on                      We gave the public the opportunity to
                                                                                                        the Internet at http://                               participate in developing this AD. The
                                                DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION                            www.regulations.gov by searching for                  following presents the comments
                                                                                                        and locating Docket No. FAA–2015–                     received on the NPRM (80 FR 75952,
                                                Federal Aviation Administration                         4344; or in person at the Docket                      December 7, 2015) and the FAA’s
                                                                                                        Management Facility between 9 a.m.                    response to each comment.
                                                14 CFR Part 39                                          and 5 p.m., Monday through Friday,
                                                                                                        except Federal holidays. The AD docket                Support for the NPRM (80 FR 75952,
                                                [Docket No. FAA–2015–4344; Directorate                                                                        December 7, 2015)
                                                Identifier 2015–NE–32–AD; Amendment 39–                 contains this AD, the regulatory
                                                18486; AD 2016–08–10]                                   evaluation, any comments received, and                  The Boeing Company and the
                                                                                                        other information. The address for the                National Transportation Safety Board
                                                RIN 2120–AA64                                           Docket Office (phone: 800–647–5527) is                expressed support for the NPRM (80 FR
                                                Airworthiness Directives; General                       Document Management Facility, U.S.                    75952, December 7, 2015).
                                                Electric Company Turbofan Engines                       Department of Transportation, Docket
                                                                                                        Operations, M–30, West Building                       Revision to Service Information
                                                AGENCY:  Federal Aviation                               Ground Floor, Room W12–140, 1200                        We revised the Discussion section and
                                                Administration (FAA), DOT.                              New Jersey Avenue SE., Washington,                    Applicability paragraph (e) of this AD to
                                                ACTION: Final rule.                                     DC 20590.                                             include all the GE CF6–80C2 and CF6–
                                                                                                        FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT:                      80E1 turbofan engine models.
                                                SUMMARY:   We are adopting a new                        Herman Mak, Aerospace Engineer,
                                                airworthiness directive (AD) for all                                                                          Request To Change Summary
                                                                                                        Engine Certification Office, FAA, Engine
                                                General Electric Company (GE) CF6–                      & Propeller Directorate, 1200 District                  GE requested that we revise the
                                                80C2A1, CF6–80C2A2, CF6–80C2A3,                         Avenue, Burlington, MA 01803; phone:                  Summary paragraph of this AD to
                                                CF6–80C2A5, CF6–80C2A5F, CF6–                           781–238–7147; fax: 781–238–7199;                      correct the number of events and clarify
                                                80C2A8, CF6–80C2B1, CF6–80C2B1F,                        email: herman.mak@faa.gov.                            the event description.
                                                CF6–80C2B1F1, CF6–80C2B1F2, CF6–                                                                                We agree. Only three of the originally
                                                                                                        SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION:
                                                80C2B2, CF6–80C2B2F, CF6–80C2B3F,                                                                             specified five events resulted in heat
                                                CF6–80C2B4, CF6–80C2B4F, CF6–                           Discussion                                            shield burn-throughs. We revised the
                                                80C2B5F, CF6–80C2B6, CF6–80C2B6F,                          We issued a notice of proposed                     Summary paragraph of this AD to
                                                CF6–80C2B6FA, CF6–80C2B7F, CF6–                         rulemaking (NPRM) to amend 14 CFR                     correct the number of events and clarify
                                                80C2B8F, CF6–80C2D1F, CF6–80C2L1F,                      part 39 by adding an AD that would                    the event description.
                                                CF6–80C2K1F and CF6–80E1A1, CF6–                        apply to GE CF6–80C2A1, CF6–80C2A2,
                                                80E1A2, CF6–80E1A3, CF6–80E1A4,                                                                               Request To Revise the Other Related
                                                                                                        CF6–80C2A3, CF6–80C2A5, CF6–                          Service Information Paragraph
                                                and CF6–80E1A4/B turbofan engines.                      80C2A5F, CF6–80C2A8, CF6–80C2B1,
                                                This AD was prompted by reports of a                    CF6–80C2B1F, CF6–80C2B1F1, CF6–                         GE requested that we revise the Other
                                                burn-through of the accessory heat                      80C2B1F2, CF6–80C2B2, CF6–80C2B2F,                    Related Service Information paragraph
                                                shield during an engine fire,                           CF6–80C2B3F, CF6–80C2B4, CF6–                         of this AD to remove GE Service
                                                propagating the fire into the accessory                 80C2B4F, CF6–80C2B5F, CF6–80C2B6,                     Bulletin (SB) CF6–80C2 S/B 72–1523,
                                                compartment and igniting additional                     CF6–80C2B6F, CF6–80C2B6FA, CF6–                       dated September 22, 2015. This SB only
                                                flammable fuel source. This AD requires                 80C2B7F, CF6–80C2B8F, CF6–                            applies to the military variant of the
                                                replacing the accessory heat shield                     80C2D1F, CF6–80C2L1F, and CF6–                        engine.
                                                assembly. We are issuing this AD to                     80C2K1F turbofan engines. This AD that                  We disagree. The military variant of
                                                prevent fires from propagating into the                 would also apply to CF6–80E1A1, CF6–                  the engine is also certified by the FAA.
                                                accessory compartment, resulting in an                  80E1A2, CF6–80E1A3, CF6–80E1A4,                       We did not change this AD.
                                                uncontrolled engine fire, and damage to                 and CF6–80E1A4/B turbofan engines.
                                                the airplane.                                                                                                 Request To Revise the Costs of
                                                                                                        The NPRM published in the Federal                     Compliance
                                                DATES: This AD is effective June 1, 2016.               Register on December 7, 2015 (80 FR
                                                   The Director of the Federal Register                 75952). The NPRM was prompted by                         GE, KLM Royal Dutch Airlines (KLM),
                                                approved the incorporation by reference                 reports of a burn-through of the                      All Nippon Airways (ANA), and Federal
                                                of certain publications listed in this AD               accessory heat shield during an engine                Express (FedEx) requested that we
                                                as of June 1, 2016.                                     fire leading to an accessory                          revise the Costs of Compliance
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                                                ADDRESSES: For service information                      compartment fire. A fire burns through                paragraph of this AD to correct the parts
                                                identified in this final rule, contact                  the accessory heat shield and ignites the             cost used in the calculations.
                                                General Electric Company, GE Aviation,                  integrated drive generator (IDG) and                     We agree. We considered the costs of
                                                Room 285, 1 Neumann Way, Cincinnati,                    main fuel pump, which supports further                all the parts needed to comply with this
                                                OH 45215; phone: 513–552–3272; email:                   combustion. The existing accessory heat               AD and revised the costs per engine to
                                                aviation.fleetsupport@ge.com. You may                   shield assembly leaves a large area                   $14,207 and the total cost to U.S.
                                                view this service information at the                    above the sensitive accessories, such as              operators to $13,680,920.


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                                                24700            Federal Register / Vol. 81, No. 81 / Wednesday, April 27, 2016 / Rules and Regulations

                                                Request To Change Applicability                         Request To Change Applicability                       with the changes described previously.
                                                   KLM requested that we exclude GE                        ANA requested limiting the                         We have determined that these minor
                                                CF6–80E1 engines from the                               Applicability paragraph of this AD to a               changes:
                                                Applicability paragraph of this AD.                     particular maintenance, repair, and                     • Are consistent with the intent that
                                                KLM reasoned that the NTSB safety                       overhaul (MRO) shop where improper                    was proposed in the NPRM (80 FR
                                                recommendation did not address GE                       maintenance occurred leading to fire.                 75952, December 7, 2015) for correcting
                                                CF6–80E1 engines and CF6–80E1                           ANA reasoned that the latest 2010 sump                the unsafe condition; and
                                                engines have not experienced any sump                   fire leading to heat shield burn-through                • Do not add any additional burden
                                                fires to date.                                          was the result of improper maintenance                upon the public than was already
                                                   We disagree. Although the NTSB did                   at a particular MRO.                                  proposed in the NPRM (80 FR 75952,
                                                not address GE CF6–80E1 engines, the                       We disagree. This AD addresses the                 December 7, 2015).
                                                designs of the GE CF6–80C2 and CF6–                     insufficient fire protection design of the              We also determined that these
                                                80E1 engines are substantially similar.                 heat shield to prevent secondary fire                 changes will not increase the economic
                                                Therefore, the unsafe condition                         damage. This is independent from the                  burden on any operator or increase the
                                                addressed by this AD is likely to exist                 cause of fire in the engine. We did not               scope of this AD.
                                                or develop on the GE CF6–80E1 engines.                  change this AD.
                                                                                                                                                              Related Service Information Under 1
                                                We did not change this AD.                              Request To Change Effectivity                         CFR Part 51
                                                Request To Change Compliance                               Lufthansa, Lufthansa Cargo, and                      We reviewed GE SB CF6–80C2 S/B
                                                  GE requests that the following part                   Lufthansa Technik requested that we                   72–1520, dated September 22, 2015 and
                                                numbers (P/Ns) be removed from Table                    not mandate heat shield rework or                     GE SB CF6–80E1 S/B 72–0525, dated
                                                1 of GE SB 72–1520: P/N 2022M47G01,                     replacement. Lufthansa reasoned that                  September 22, 2015. These SBs describe
                                                P/N 2022M81P01, P/N 2022M85G01,                         none of their customers operating GE                  the procedures for removing and
                                                and P/N 2023M20G01. These P/Ns are                      CF6–80C2/80A engines have                             replacing the accessory heat shield
                                                used only on GE CF6–80C2B6FA                            experienced a compressor rear frame                   assembly. This service information is
                                                models, a military application, and                     (CRF) sump fire.                                      reasonably available because the
                                                contain a different heat shield design.                    We disagree. Complying with this AD                interested parties have access to it
                                                  We disagree. The specified P/Ns are                   is necessary to correct the unsafe                    through their normal course of business
                                                not listed in Table 1 of GE SB 72–1520                  condition of heat shield burn-through.                or by the means identified in the
                                                and therefore this comment is not                       The heat shield rework or replacement                 ADDRESSES section.
                                                applicable. We did not change this AD.                  is needed to prevent fires from
                                                                                                        propagating into the accessory                        Other Related Service Information
                                                Request To Change Definition                            compartment, leading to a larger engine                 We reviewed GE SB CF6–80E1 S/B
                                                   GE, United Airlines, KLM, Lufthansa,                 fire and subsequent damage to the                     72–0504, dated October 24, 2014. This
                                                Lufthansa Cargo, Lufthansa Technik,                     airplane. We did not change this AD.                  SB describes procedures for quick-turn
                                                and FedEx requested that we provide a                   Request for Allowance of Creating and                 workscope procedure to replace CF6–
                                                more accurate description of flange                     Marking Serial Numbers                                80E1 stage 1 high-pressure turbine
                                                separation and exclude certain                                                                                blades. We also reviewed GE SB CF6–
                                                                                                           Delta requested we allow operators to              80C2 S/B 72–1516, Revision 2, dated
                                                situations from the definition of a shop
                                                                                                        both create and mark identification                   November 6, 2015. This SB describes
                                                visit. The commenters reasoned that this
                                                                                                        numbers on heat shields that are not                  procedures for replacement of the CRF
                                                would provide clarity and reduce the
                                                                                                        currently marked. Delta has received                  assembly, oil manifold, air tubes, and
                                                undue economic and operational
                                                                                                        reports that there are illegible                      support brackets. We also reviewed GE
                                                burden of complying with this AD
                                                                                                        identification markings on heat shields.              SB CF6–80C2 S/B 72–1523, dated
                                                earlier than necessary.                                    We partially agree. We agree there is
                                                   We agree. We revised the Definition                                                                        September 22, 2015. This SB describes
                                                                                                        a lack of information about heat shields
                                                paragraph of this AD to clarify the                                                                           procedures for removing and replacing
                                                                                                        with illegible P/Ns in this AD. We
                                                description of flange separation and                                                                          the accessory heat shield assembly.
                                                                                                        revised the Compliance section of this
                                                include specific conditions that do not                 AD to address heat shields with illegible             Costs of Compliance
                                                qualify as shop visits.                                 P/Ns.
                                                                                                           We disagree with allowing operators                  We estimate that this AD affects 935
                                                Request To Delay the Effective Date                                                                           engines installed on airplanes of U.S.
                                                                                                        to create and mark identification
                                                   GE and Delta Air Lines (Delta)                       numbers on heat shields as this does not              registry. We also estimate that it will
                                                requested that we delay the effective                   resolve the unsafe condition and is                   take about 5 hours per engine to comply
                                                date of this AD. GE reasoned that the                   beyond the scope of this AD.                          with this AD. The average labor rate is
                                                revised service bulletin addressing the                                                                       $85 per hour. Parts cost about $14,207
                                                lack of repair instructions for accessory               Request To Change Applicability                       per engine. Based on these figures, we
                                                heat shield assembly, P/N 1313M94G09,                     GE commented that heat shield, P/N                  estimate the total cost of this AD to U.S.
                                                will not be available until after the                   1643M23G12, is also affected by the                   operators to be $13,680,920.
                                                expected effective date of this AD.                     unsafe condition described in this AD.                Authority for This Rulemaking
                                                   We disagree. The current effective                     We agree. We added heat shield, P/N
                                                date of this AD is needed to address the                1643M23G12, to the applicability of this                Title 49 of the United States Code
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                                                unsafe condition for the affected fleet.                AD.                                                   specifies the FAA’s authority to issue
                                                Any party may make a request for an                                                                           rules on aviation safety. Subtitle I,
                                                Alternative Method of Compliance                        Conclusion                                            section 106, describes the authority of
                                                (AMOC) to this AD using the procedures                    We reviewed the relevant data,                      the FAA Administrator. Subtitle VII:
                                                listed in this AD. Any requests for an                  considered the comments received, and                 Aviation Programs, describes in more
                                                AMOC are reviewed and responded to                      determined that air safety and the                    detail the scope of the Agency’s
                                                accordingly. We did not change this AD.                 public interest require adopting this AD              authority.


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                                                                 Federal Register / Vol. 81, No. 81 / Wednesday, April 27, 2016 / Rules and Regulations                                               24701

                                                   We are issuing this rulemaking under                 (a) Effective Date                                      (2) Replacement of the turbine rear frame.
                                                the authority described in Subtitle VII,                  This AD is effective June 1, 2016.                    (3) Removal of the top or bottom high-
                                                Part A, Subpart III, Section 44701:                                                                           pressure compressor (HPC) case, or both, for
                                                                                                        (b) Affected ADs                                      HPC airfoil maintenance or replacement of
                                                ‘‘General requirements.’’ Under that
                                                                                                          None.                                               variable stator vane bushing or lever arms.
                                                section, Congress charges the FAA with
                                                                                                                                                                (4) Quick-turn workscope procedure to
                                                promoting safe flight of civil aircraft in              (c) Applicability
                                                                                                                                                              replace CF6–80E1 stage 1 high-pressure
                                                air commerce by prescribing regulations                    This AD applies to all General Electric            turbine (HPT) blades per CF6–80E1 SB 72–
                                                for practices, methods, and procedures                  Company (GE) CF6–80C2A1, CF6–80C2A2,                  0504 R00 ENGINE—General (72–00–00)—
                                                the Administrator finds necessary for                   CF6–80C2A3, CF6–80C2A5, CF6–80C2A5F,                  Quick-Turn Workscope Procedure to Replace
                                                safety in air commerce. This regulation                 CF6–80C2A8, CF6–80C2B1, CF6–80C2B1F,                  CF6–80E1 Stage 1 HPT Blades.
                                                is within the scope of that authority                   CF6–80C2B1F1, CF6–80C2B1F2, CF6–                        (5) Replacement of compressor rear frame
                                                because it addresses an unsafe condition                80C2B2, CF6–80C2B2F, CF6–80C2B3F, CF6–
                                                                                                                                                              assembly, new oil manifold, air tubes and
                                                                                                        80C2B4, CF6–80C2B4F, CF6–80C2B5F, CF6–
                                                that is likely to exist or develop on                   80C2B6, CF6–80C2B6F, CF6–80C2B6FA,
                                                                                                                                                              support brackets per CF6–80C2 SB 72–1516
                                                products identified in this rulemaking                  CF6–80C2B7F, CF6–80C2B8F, CF6–                        R02 ENGINE—Compressor Rear Frame
                                                action.                                                 80C2D1F, CF6–80C2L1F, CF6–80C2K1F                     Assembly (72–34–00)—New Oil Manifold,
                                                                                                        turbofan engines. This AD also applies to             Air Tubes and Support Brackets.
                                                Regulatory Findings                                     CF6–80E1A1, CF6–80E1A2, CF6–80E1A3,                   (h) Alternative Methods of Compliance
                                                  This AD will not have federalism                      CF6–80E1A4, and CF6–80E1A4/B turbofan                 (AMOCs)
                                                implications under Executive Order                      engines.
                                                                                                                                                                The Manager, Engine Certification Office,
                                                13132. This AD will not have a                          (d) Unsafe Condition                                  FAA, may approve AMOCs to this AD. Use
                                                substantial direct effect on the States, on               This AD was prompted by reports of a                the procedures found in 14 CFR 39.19 to
                                                the relationship between the national                   burn-through of the accessory heat shield             make your request. You may email your
                                                government and the States, or on the                    during an engine fire, leading to an accessory        request to: ANE-AD-AMOC@faa.gov.
                                                distribution of power and                               compartment fire. We are issuing this AD to
                                                                                                        prevent uncontrolled engine fire, and damage          (i) Related Information
                                                responsibilities among the various
                                                levels of government.                                   to the airplane.                                        For more information about this AD,
                                                  For the reasons discussed above, I                                                                          contact Herman Mak, Aerospace Engineer,
                                                                                                        (e) Compliance
                                                                                                                                                              Engine Certification Office, FAA, Engine &
                                                certify that this AD:                                      Comply with this AD within the                     Propeller Directorate, 1200 District Avenue,
                                                  (1) Is not a ‘‘significant regulatory                 compliance times specified, unless already            Burlington, MA 01803; phone: 781–238–
                                                action’’ under Executive Order 12866,                   done.                                                 7147; fax: 781–238–7199; email:
                                                  (2) Is not a ‘‘significant rule’’ under                  (1) For CF6–80C2 engines, at the next              herman.mak@faa.gov.
                                                DOT Regulatory Policies and Procedures                  engine shop visit after the effective date of
                                                                                                        this AD, remove from service accessory heat           (j) Material Incorporated by Reference
                                                (44 FR 11034, February 26, 1979),
                                                                                                        shield assembly, part number (P/N)                       (1) The Director of the Federal Register
                                                  (3) Will not affect intrastate aviation               1643M23G12, and any other accessory heat
                                                in Alaska to the extent that it justifies                                                                     approved the incorporation by reference
                                                                                                        shield assembly listed by P/N in Table 1 of           (IBR) of the service information listed in this
                                                making a regulatory distinction, and                    GE Service Bulletin (SB) CF6–80C2 S/B 72–             paragraph under 5 U.S.C. 552(a) and 1 CFR
                                                  (4) Will not have a significant                       1520, dated September 22, 2015. Install an            part 51.
                                                economic impact, positive or negative,                  accessory heat shield assembly eligible for              (2) You must use this service information
                                                on a substantial number of small entities               installation.
                                                                                                                                                              as applicable to do the actions required by
                                                under the criteria of the Regulatory                       (2) For CF6–80E1 engines, at the next
                                                                                                                                                              this AD, unless the AD specifies otherwise.
                                                                                                        engine shop visit after the effective date of
                                                Flexibility Act.                                        this AD, remove from service accessory heat
                                                                                                                                                                 (i) General Electric Company (GE) Service
                                                                                                        shield assemblies listed by P/N in Table 1 of         Bulletin (SB) CF6–80C2 S/B 72–1520, dated
                                                List of Subjects in 14 CFR Part 39                                                                            September 22, 2015.
                                                                                                        GE SB CF6–80E1 S/B 72–0525, dated
                                                  Air transportation, Aircraft, Aviation                September 22, 2015. Install an accessory heat            (ii) GE SB CF6–80E1 S/B 72–0525, dated
                                                safety, Incorporation by reference,                     shield assembly eligible for installation.            September 22, 2015.
                                                Safety.                                                    (3) Remove any heat shield assembly from              (3) For GE service information identified in
                                                                                                        service if the accessory heat shield assembly         this AD, contact General Electric Company,
                                                Adoption of the Amendment                               part number marking is illegible and the              GE Aviation, Room 285, 1 Neumann Way,
                                                                                                        documentation associated with the part                Cincinnati, OH 45215; phone: 513–552–3272;
                                                  Accordingly, under the authority                                                                            email: aviation.fleetsupport@ge.com.
                                                                                                        cannot properly identify the part.
                                                delegated to me by the Administrator,                                                                            (4) You may view this service information
                                                the FAA amends 14 CFR part 39 as                        (f) Installation Prohibition                          at FAA, Engine & Propeller Directorate, 1200
                                                follows:                                                   After the effective date of this AD, do not        District Avenue, Burlington, MA. For
                                                                                                        install any accessory heat shield assembly, P/        information on the availability of this
                                                PART 39—AIRWORTHINESS                                   N 1643M23G12; or any accessory heat shield            material at the FAA, call 781–238–7125.
                                                DIRECTIVES                                              assembly listed by P/N in Table 1 of GE SB               (5) You may view this service information
                                                                                                        CF6–80C2 S/B 72–1520, dated September 22,             at the National Archives and Records
                                                ■ 1. The authority citation for part 39                 2015; or in Table 1 of GE SB CF6–80E1 S/              Administration (NARA). For information on
                                                continues to read as follows:                           B 72–0525, dated September 22, 2015; into             the availability of this material at NARA, call
                                                                                                        any engine.                                           202–741–6030, or go to: http://
                                                    Authority: 49 U.S.C. 106(g), 40113, 44701.
                                                                                                        (g) Definition                                        www.archives.gov/federal-register/cfr/ibr-
                                                § 39.13   [Amended]                                                                                           locations.html.
                                                                                                           For the purpose of this AD, an engine shop
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                                                ■ 2. The FAA amends § 39.13 by adding                   visit is defined as the induction of an engine          Issued in Burlington, Massachusetts, on
                                                the following new airworthiness                         into the shop for maintenance involving the           April 7, 2016.
                                                                                                        separation of any major mating engine                 Colleen M. D’Alessandro,
                                                directive (AD):                                         flanges, except that the separation of engine
                                                                                                                                                              Manager, Engine & Propeller Directorate,
                                                2016–08–10 General Electric Company:                    flanges solely for the following purposes is
                                                                                                                                                              Aircraft Certification Service.
                                                    Amendment 39–18486; Docket No.                      not considered a shop visit:
                                                    FAA–2015–4344; Directorate Identifier                  (1) Transportation without subsequent              [FR Doc. 2016–09686 Filed 4–26–16; 8:45 am]
                                                    2015–NE–32–AD.                                      engine maintenance.                                   BILLING CODE 4910–13–P




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Document Created: 2018-02-07 13:55:27
Document Modified: 2018-02-07 13:55:27
CategoryRegulatory Information
CollectionFederal Register
sudoc ClassAE 2.7:
GS 4.107:
AE 2.106:
PublisherOffice of the Federal Register, National Archives and Records Administration
SectionRules and Regulations
ActionFinal rule.
DatesThis AD is effective June 1, 2016.
ContactHerman Mak, Aerospace Engineer, Engine Certification Office, FAA, Engine & Propeller Directorate, 1200 District Avenue, Burlington, MA 01803; phone: 781-238-7147; fax: 781- 238-7199; email: [email protected]
FR Citation81 FR 24699 
RIN Number2120-AA64
CFR AssociatedAir Transportation; Aircraft; Aviation Safety; Incorporation by Reference and Safety

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