83_FR_16868 83 FR 16794 - Airworthiness Directives; General Electric Company CF34-8E Engines

83 FR 16794 - Airworthiness Directives; General Electric Company CF34-8E Engines

DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION
Federal Aviation Administration

Federal Register Volume 83, Issue 74 (April 17, 2018)

Page Range16794-16796
FR Document2018-07819

We propose to adopt a new airworthiness directive (AD) for all General Electric Company (GE) CF34-8E turbofan engines. This proposed AD was prompted by a report from GE regarding a quality escape of nonconforming thrust reverser fire seals. This proposed AD would require a one-time inspection of the gap between the core cowl seal and the pylon seal of the thrust reverser for correct gap width, and replacement of the seals, if needed. We are proposing this AD to address the unsafe condition on these products.

Federal Register, Volume 83 Issue 74 (Tuesday, April 17, 2018)
[Federal Register Volume 83, Number 74 (Tuesday, April 17, 2018)]
[Proposed Rules]
[Pages 16794-16796]
From the Federal Register Online  [www.thefederalregister.org]
[FR Doc No: 2018-07819]


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

DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION

Federal Aviation Administration

14 CFR Part 39

[Docket No. FAA-2018-0142; Product Identifier 2018-NE-04-AD]
RIN 2120-AA64


Airworthiness Directives; General Electric Company CF34-8E 
Engines

AGENCY: Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), DOT.

ACTION: Notice of proposed rulemaking (NPRM).

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

SUMMARY: We propose to adopt a new airworthiness directive (AD) for all 
General Electric Company (GE) CF34-8E turbofan engines. This proposed 
AD was prompted by a report from GE regarding a quality escape of 
nonconforming thrust reverser fire seals. This proposed AD would 
require a one-time inspection of the gap between the core cowl seal and 
the pylon seal of the thrust reverser for correct gap width, and 
replacement of the seals, if needed. We are proposing this AD to 
address the unsafe condition on these products.

DATES: We must receive comments on this proposed AD by June 1, 2018.

ADDRESSES: You may send comments, using the procedures found in 14 CFR 
11.43 and 11.45, by any of the following methods:
     Federal eRulemaking Portal: Go to http://www.regulations.gov. Follow the instructions for submitting comments.

[[Page 16795]]

     Fax: 202-493-2251.
     Mail: U.S. Department of Transportation, Docket 
Operations, M-30, West Building Ground Floor, Room W12-140, 1200 New 
Jersey Avenue SE, Washington, DC 20590.
     Hand Delivery: Deliver to Mail address above between 9 
a.m. and 5 p.m., Monday through Friday, except Federal holidays.
    For service information identified in this NPRM, contact General 
Electric Company, 1 Neumann Way, Cincinnati, OH 45215; telephone 513-
552-3272; email aviation.fleetsupport@ge.com. You may view this service 
information at the FAA, Engine and Propeller Standards Branch, 1200 
District Avenue, Burlington, MA 01803. For information on the 
availability of this material at the FAA, call 781-238-7759.

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-2018-
0142; or in person at Docket Operations between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m., 
Monday through Friday, except Federal holidays. The AD docket contains 
this NPRM, the regulatory evaluation, any comments received, and other 
information. The street address for Docket Operations (phone: 800-647-
5527) is listed above. Comments will be available in the AD docket 
shortly after receipt.

FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: David Bethka, Aerospace Engineer, ECO 
Branch, FAA, 1200 District Avenue, Burlington, MA 01803; phone: 781-
238-7129; fax: 781-238-7199; email: david.bethka@faa.gov.

SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: 

Comments Invited

    We invite you to send any written relevant data, views, or 
arguments about this proposal. Send your comments to an address listed 
under the ADDRESSES section. Include ``Docket No. FAA-2018-0142; 
Product Identifier 2018-NE-04-AD'' at the beginning of your comments. 
We specifically invite comments on the overall regulatory, economic, 
environmental, and energy aspects of this NPRM. We will consider all 
comments received by the closing date and may amend this NPRM because 
of those comments.
    We will post all comments we receive, without change, to http://www.regulations.gov, including any personal information you provide. We 
will also post a report summarizing each substantive verbal contact we 
receive about this NPRM.

Discussion

    We received a report from the manufacturer about a fire seal gap 
quality escape on GE CF34-8E turbofan engines. Some thrust reverser 
fire seals, installed on thrust reverser part numbers (P/Ns) 15G0002-
013, 15G0002-014, 15G0003-013, and 15G0003-014, were shipped from a 
supplier with nonconforming seal gaps.
    An analysis by the manufacturer has shown that a gap between the 12 
o'clock core cowl seal and pylon seal that is greater than the 1 mm 
design requirement could result in fire outside the fire zone. This 
unsafe condition, if not addressed, could result in an uncontrolled 
fire, damage to the engine, and damage to the airplane.

Related Service Information

    We reviewed GE CF34-8E Service Bulletin (SB) 78-0066 R00, dated 
December 11, 2017. The SB describes procedures for measuring the width 
of the RTV filled gap between the thrust reverser fire seals at the 12 
o'clock core cowl seal and pylon seal installed on thrust reverser P/Ns 
15G0002-013, 15G0002-014, 15G0003-013, and 15G0003-014, and replacing 
with parts eligible for installation, if needed.

FAA's Determination

    We are proposing this AD because we evaluated all the relevant 
information and determined the unsafe condition described previously is 
likely to exist or develop in other products of the same type design.

Proposed AD Requirements

    This proposed AD would require a one-time inspection of the gap 
between the core cowl seal and the pylon seal of the thrust reverser 
for correct gap width, and replacement of the thrust reverser fire 
seals, if needed.

Costs of Compliance

    We estimate that this proposed AD affects 936 engines installed on 
airplanes of U.S. registry.
    We estimate the following costs to comply with this proposed AD:

                                                 Estimated Costs
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                                     Cost per      Cost on U.S.
               Action                         Labor cost            Parts cost        product        operators
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Inspection.........................  0.25 work-hours x $85 per                $0          $21.25         $19,890
                                      hour = $21.25.
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

    We estimate the following costs to do any necessary replacements 
that would be required based on the results of the proposed inspection. 
We have no way of determining the number of aircraft that might need 
these replacements:

                                               On-Condition Costs
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                                                     Cost per
                   Action                                 Labor cost                Parts cost        product
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Remove and replace thrust reverser fire      2.75 work-hours x $85 per hour =             $3,228       $3,461.75
 seals.                                       $233.75.
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

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

[[Page 16796]]

products identified in this rulemaking action.
    This AD is issued in accordance with authority delegated by the 
Executive Director, Aircraft Certification Service, as authorized by 
FAA Order 8000.51C. In accordance with that order, issuance of ADs is 
normally a function of the Compliance and Airworthiness Division, but 
during this transition period, the Executive Director has delegated the 
authority to issue ADs applicable to engines, propellers, and 
associated appliances to the Manager, Engine and Propeller Standards 
Branch, Policy and Innovation Division.

Regulatory Findings

    We determined that this proposed AD would not have federalism 
implications under Executive Order 13132. This proposed AD would 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 this proposed 
regulation:
    (1) Is not a ``significant regulatory action'' under Executive 
Order 12866,
    (2) Is not a ``significant rule'' under the DOT Regulatory Policies 
and Procedures (44 FR 11034, February 26, 1979),
    (3) Will not affect intrastate aviation in Alaska, 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.

The Proposed Amendment

    Accordingly, under the authority delegated to me by the 
Administrator, the FAA proposes to amend 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):

General Electric Company: Docket No. FAA-2018-0142; Product 
Identifier 2018-NE-04-AD.

(a) Comments Due Date

    We must receive comments by June 1, 2018.

(b) Affected ADs

    None.

(c) Applicability

    This AD applies to all General Electric Company (GE) CF34-8E 
turbofan engines.

(d) Subject

    Joint Aircraft System Component (JASC) Code 7830, Thrust 
Reverser.

(e) Unsafe Condition

    This AD was prompted by a report from GE regarding a quality 
escape of nonconforming thrust reverser fire seal gaps. We are 
issuing this AD to inspect for nonconforming thrust reverser fire 
seal gaps that could result in a fire outside the fire zone. The 
unsafe condition, if not addressed, could result in an uncontrolled 
fire, damage to the engine, and damage to the airplane.

(f) Compliance

    Comply with this AD within the compliance times specified, 
unless already done.

(g) Required Actions

    (1) For all CF34-8E turbofan engines, before the engine 
accumulates 8,000 flight hours after the effective date of this AD, 
perform the following one-time inspection, and, if needed, replace 
the core cowl seal and pylon seal.
    (i) Measure the width of the RTV filled gap between thrust 
reverser fire seals at the junction between 12 o'clock core cowl 
seal and pylon seal, at the following half thrust reverser 
locations: engine 1 left hand (LH) half thrust reverser, part number 
(P/N) 15G0002-013; engine 2 LH half thrust reverser, P/N 15G0002-
014; engine 1 right hand (RH) half thrust reverser, P/N 15G0003-013; 
and engine 2 RH half thrust reverser P/N 15G0003-014.
    (ii) If the gap width between the 12 o'clock core cowl seal and 
the pylon seal is greater than 1 mm, replace both seals with parts 
eligible for installation to form a new gap of 1 mm or less, prior 
to return to service.
    (2) You may refer to GE CF34-8E Service Bulletin 78-0066 R00, 
dated December 11, 2017 for guidance on inspecting and replacing the 
thrust reverser fire seals.

(h) Alternative Methods of Compliance (AMOCs)

    (1) The Manager, ECO Branch, FAA, has the authority to approve 
AMOCs for this AD, if requested using the procedures found in 14 CFR 
39.19. In accordance with 14 CFR 39.19, send your request to your 
principal inspector or local Flight Standards District Office, as 
appropriate. If sending information directly to the manager of the 
certification office, send it to the attention of the person 
identified in paragraph (i)(1) of this AD.
    (2) Before using any approved AMOC, notify your appropriate 
principal inspector, or lacking a principal inspector, the manager 
of the local Flight Standards District Office/Certificate Holding 
District Office.

(i) Related Information

    (1) For more information about this AD, contact David Bethka, 
Aerospace Engineer, ECO Branch, FAA,1200 District Avenue, 
Burlington, MA 01803; phone: 781-238-7129; fax: 781-238-7199; email: 
david.bethka@faa.gov.
    (2) For service information identified in this AD, contact 
General Electric Company, 1 Neumann Way, Cincinnati, OH 45215; 
telephone 513-552-3272; email aviation.fleetsupport@ge.com. You may 
view this referenced service information at the FAA, Engine and 
Propeller Standards Branch, 1200 District Avenue, Burlington, MA 
01803. For information on the availability of this material at the 
FAA, call 781-238-7759.

    Issued in Burlington, Massachusetts, on April 9, 2018.
Robert J. Ganley,
Manager, Engine and Propeller Standards Branch, Aircraft Certification 
Service.
[FR Doc. 2018-07819 Filed 4-16-18; 8:45 am]
 BILLING CODE 4910-13-P



                                               16794                    Federal Register / Vol. 83, No. 74 / Tuesday, April 17, 2018 / Proposed Rules

                                               (b) Affected ADs                                        icing boots, in accordance with the                    information. This MCAI may be found in the
                                                 This AD replaces AD 2016–13–06,                       Accomplishment Instructions of Saab Service            AD docket on the internet at http://
                                               Amendment 39–18570 (81 FR 41432, June                   Bulletin 340–30–094, dated March 27, 2015.             www.regulations.gov by searching for and
                                               27, 2016) (‘‘AD 2016–13–06’’).                          Repeat the inspection thereafter at intervals          locating Docket No. FAA–2018–0271.
                                                                                                       not to exceed 400 flight hours. If, during any           (2) For more information about this AD,
                                               (c) Applicability                                       inspection required by this paragraph, any             contact Shahram Daneshmandi, Aerospace
                                                  This AD applies to Saab AB, Saab                     damage or existing repair outside the limits           Engineer, International Section, Transport
                                               Aeronautics (formerly known as Saab AB,                 specified in Saab Service Bulletin 340–30–             Standards Branch, FAA, 2200 South 216th
                                               Saab Aerosystems) airplanes, certificated in            094, dated March 27, 2015, is found, before            St., Des Moines, WA 98198; telephone and
                                               any category, identified in paragraphs (c)(1)           further flight, repair or replace the horizontal       fax: 206–231–3220.
                                               and (c)(2), of this AD.                                 stabilizer de-icing boots, in accordance with            (3) For service information identified in
                                                  (1) Saab AB, Saab Aeronautics Model 340A             the Accomplishment Instructions of Saab                this AD, contact Saab AB, Saab Aeronautics,
                                               (SAAB/SF340A) airplanes, serial numbers                 Service Bulletin 340–30–094, dated March               SE–581 88, Linköping, Sweden; telephone:
                                               004 through 138 inclusive, if Saab                      27, 2015. Repair or replacement on an                  +46 13 18 5591; fax: +46 13 18 4874; email:
                                               modification 1462 has been embodied in                  airplane of the horizontal stabilizer de-icing         saab340techsupport@saabgroup.com;
                                               production, or Saab Service Bulletin 340–55–            boots, as required by this paragraph, does not         internet: http://www.saabgroup.com. You
                                               008 has been embodied in service, except                constitute terminating action for the                  may view this service information at the
                                               those that have also embodied Saab                      repetitive inspections required by this                FAA, Transport Standards Branch, 2200
                                               modification 1793 in production, or Saab                paragraph for that airplane.                           South 216th St., Des Moines, WA. For
                                               Service Bulletin 340–55–010 in service; and             (i) New Requirement of This AD:                        information on the availability of this
                                               serial numbers 139 through 159 inclusive.               Modification                                           material at the FAA, call 206–231–3195.
                                                  (2) Saab AB, Saab Aeronautics Model
                                                                                                          Within 18 months after the effective date             Issued in Des Moines, Washington, on
                                               SAAB 340B airplanes, serial numbers 160
                                                                                                       of this AD, modify the airplane by replacing           March 30, 2018.
                                               through 459 inclusive.
                                                                                                       the single stitched de-icing boots installed on        Chris Spangenberg,
                                               (d) Subject                                             the left-hand (LH) and right-hand (RH)                 Acting Director, System Oversight Division,
                                                 Air Transport Association (ATA) of                    horizontal stabilizers with double stitched            Aircraft Certification Service.
                                               America Code 30, Ice and rain protection.               de-icing boots and re-identify the LH and RH
                                                                                                                                                              [FR Doc. 2018–07636 Filed 4–16–18; 8:45 am]
                                                                                                       horizontal stabilizer leading edge, in
                                               (e) Reason                                              accordance with the Accomplishment                     BILLING CODE 4910–13–P
                                                  This AD was prompted by reports of                   Instructions of Saab Service Bulletin 340–30–
                                               ruptured horizontal stabilizer de-icing boots.          095, dated April 3, 2017.
                                               We are issuing this AD to detect and correct                                                                   DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION
                                                                                                       (j) Terminating Action
                                               ruptured horizontal stabilizer de-icing boots,
                                               which could lead to complete loss of the de-               Modification of the airplane as required by         Federal Aviation Administration
                                               icing function within its associated zone and           paragraph (i) of this AD, constitutes
                                               severe vibrations, possibly resulting in                terminating action for the repetitive                  14 CFR Part 39
                                               reduced control of the airplane.                        inspections required by paragraph (h) of this
                                                                                                       AD, for that airplane.                                 [Docket No. FAA–2018–0142; Product
                                               (f) Compliance                                                                                                 Identifier 2018–NE–04–AD]
                                                                                                       (k) Other FAA AD Provisions
                                                  Comply with this AD within the
                                               compliance times specified, unless already                 (1) Alternative Methods of Compliance               RIN 2120–AA64
                                               done.                                                   (AMOCs): The Manager, International
                                                                                                       Section, Transport Standards Branch, FAA,              Airworthiness Directives; General
                                               (g) Retained Revision of the Airplane Flight            has the authority to approve AMOCs for this            Electric Company CF34–8E Engines
                                               Manual (AFM), With No Changes                           AD, if requested using the procedures found
                                                  This paragraph restates the requirements of          in 14 CFR 39.19. In accordance with 14 CFR             AGENCY: Federal Aviation
                                               paragraph (g) of AD 2016–13–06, with no                 39.19, send your request to your principal             Administration (FAA), DOT.
                                               changes. Within 30 days after August 1, 2016            inspector or local Flight Standards District           ACTION: Notice of proposed rulemaking
                                               (the effective date of AD 2016–13–06), revise           Office, as appropriate. If sending information         (NPRM).
                                               the ‘‘Abnormal Procedures’’ section of the              directly to the International Section, send it
                                               applicable Saab 340 AFM to incorporate the              to the attention of the person identified in           SUMMARY:   We propose to adopt a new
                                               revision specified in paragraphs (g)(1)                 paragraph (l)(2) of this AD. Information may           airworthiness directive (AD) for all
                                               through (g)(3) of this AD.                              be emailed to: 9-ANM-116-AMOC-                         General Electric Company (GE) CF34–8E
                                                  (1) For Saab AB, Saab Aeronautics Model              REQUESTS@faa.gov. Before using any                     turbofan engines. This proposed AD was
                                               340A (SAAB/SF340A) airplanes, revise AFM                approved AMOC, notify your appropriate
                                                                                                                                                              prompted by a report from GE regarding
                                               340A 001 by incorporating Revision 57,                  principal inspector, or lacking a principal
                                               dated March 27, 2015.                                   inspector, the manager of the local flight             a quality escape of nonconforming
                                                  (2) For Saab AB, Saab Aeronautics Model              standards district office/certificate holding          thrust reverser fire seals. This proposed
                                               SAAB 340B airplanes, revise AFM 340B 001                district office.                                       AD would require a one-time inspection
                                               by incorporating Revision 35, dated March                  (2) Contacting the Manufacturer: As of the          of the gap between the core cowl seal
                                               27, 2015.                                               effective date of this AD, for any requirement         and the pylon seal of the thrust reverser
                                                  (3) For Saab AB, Saab Aeronautics Model              in this AD to obtain corrective actions from           for correct gap width, and replacement
                                               SAAB 340B airplanes with extended wing                  a manufacturer, the action must be                     of the seals, if needed. We are proposing
                                               tips, revise AFM 340B 010 by incorporating              accomplished using a method approved by
                                                                                                                                                              this AD to address the unsafe condition
                                               Revision 28, dated March 27, 2015.                      the Manager, International Section, Transport
                                                                                                       Standards Branch, FAA; or the European                 on these products.
                                               (h) Retained Inspection/Replacement, With               Aviation Safety Agency (EASA); or Saab AB,             DATES: We must receive comments on
                                               No Changes                                                                                                     this proposed AD by June 1, 2018.
amozie on DSK30RV082PROD with PROPOSALS




                                                                                                       Saab Aeronautics EASA Design Organization
                                                  This paragraph restates the requirements of          Approval (DOA). If approved by the DOA,                ADDRESSES: You may send comments,
                                               paragraph (h) of AD 2016–13–06, with no                 the approval must include the DOA-                     using the procedures found in 14 CFR
                                               changes. Within 400 flight hours or 6                   authorized signature.
                                               months, whichever occurs first after August                                                                    11.43 and 11.45, by any of the following
                                               1, 2016 (the effective date of AD 2016–13–              (l) Related Information                                methods:
                                               06), do a detailed inspection for damage of                (1) Refer to Mandatory Continuing                     • Federal eRulemaking Portal: Go to
                                               the horizontal stabilizer de-icing boots, and           Airworthiness Information (MCAI) EASA AD               http://www.regulations.gov. Follow the
                                               existing repairs of horizontal stabilizer de-           2017–0144, dated August 9, 2017, for related           instructions for submitting comments.


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                                                                              Federal Register / Vol. 83, No. 74 / Tuesday, April 17, 2018 / Proposed Rules                                               16795

                                                  • Fax: 202–493–2251.                                         238–7129; fax: 781–238–7199; email:                    requirement could result in fire outside
                                                  • Mail: U.S. Department of                                   david.bethka@faa.gov.                                  the fire zone. This unsafe condition, if
                                               Transportation, Docket Operations, M–                           SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION:                             not addressed, could result in an
                                               30, West Building Ground Floor, Room                                                                                   uncontrolled fire, damage to the engine,
                                               W12–140, 1200 New Jersey Avenue SE,                             Comments Invited                                       and damage to the airplane.
                                               Washington, DC 20590.                                             We invite you to send any written
                                                  • Hand Delivery: Deliver to Mail                                                                                    Related Service Information
                                                                                                               relevant data, views, or arguments about
                                               address above between 9 a.m. and 5                              this proposal. Send your comments to                      We reviewed GE CF34–8E Service
                                               p.m., Monday through Friday, except                             an address listed under the ADDRESSES                  Bulletin (SB) 78–0066 R00, dated
                                               Federal holidays.                                               section. Include ‘‘Docket No. FAA–                     December 11, 2017. The SB describes
                                                  For service information identified in                        2018–0142; Product Identifier 2018–                    procedures for measuring the width of
                                               this NPRM, contact General Electric                             NE–04–AD’’ at the beginning of your                    the RTV filled gap between the thrust
                                               Company, 1 Neumann Way, Cincinnati,                             comments. We specifically invite                       reverser fire seals at the 12 o’clock core
                                               OH 45215; telephone 513–552–3272;                               comments on the overall regulatory,                    cowl seal and pylon seal installed on
                                               email aviation.fleetsupport@ge.com.                             economic, environmental, and energy                    thrust reverser P/Ns 15G0002–013,
                                               You may view this service information                           aspects of this NPRM. We will consider                 15G0002–014, 15G0003–013, and
                                               at the FAA, Engine and Propeller                                all comments received by the closing                   15G0003–014, and replacing with parts
                                               Standards Branch, 1200 District                                 date and may amend this NPRM                           eligible for installation, if needed.
                                               Avenue, Burlington, MA 01803. For                               because of those comments.
                                               information on the availability of this                                                                                FAA’s Determination
                                                                                                                  We will post all comments we
                                               material at the FAA, call 781–238–7759.                         receive, without change, to http://                      We are proposing this AD because we
                                               Examining the AD Docket                                         www.regulations.gov, including any                     evaluated all the relevant information
                                                                                                               personal information you provide. We                   and determined the unsafe condition
                                                  You may examine the AD docket on                             will also post a report summarizing each               described previously is likely to exist or
                                               the internet at http://                                         substantive verbal contact we receive                  develop in other products of the same
                                               www.regulations.gov by searching for                            about this NPRM.                                       type design.
                                               and locating Docket No. FAA–2018–
                                               0142; or in person at Docket Operations                         Discussion                                             Proposed AD Requirements
                                               between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m., Monday                                 We received a report from the                           This proposed AD would require a
                                               through Friday, except Federal holidays.                        manufacturer about a fire seal gap                     one-time inspection of the gap between
                                               The AD docket contains this NPRM, the                           quality escape on GE CF34–8E turbofan                  the core cowl seal and the pylon seal of
                                               regulatory evaluation, any comments                             engines. Some thrust reverser fire seals,              the thrust reverser for correct gap width,
                                               received, and other information. The                            installed on thrust reverser part                      and replacement of the thrust reverser
                                               street address for Docket Operations                            numbers (P/Ns) 15G0002–013,                            fire seals, if needed.
                                               (phone: 800–647–5527) is listed above.                          15G0002–014, 15G0003–013, and
                                               Comments will be available in the AD                                                                                   Costs of Compliance
                                                                                                               15G0003–014, were shipped from a
                                               docket shortly after receipt.                                   supplier with nonconforming seal gaps.                    We estimate that this proposed AD
                                               FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT:                                  An analysis by the manufacturer has                  affects 936 engines installed on
                                               David Bethka, Aerospace Engineer, ECO                           shown that a gap between the 12 o’clock                airplanes of U.S. registry.
                                               Branch, FAA, 1200 District Avenue,                              core cowl seal and pylon seal that is                     We estimate the following costs to
                                               Burlington, MA 01803; phone: 781–                               greater than the 1 mm design                           comply with this proposed AD:

                                                                                                                             ESTIMATED COSTS
                                                                                                                                                                                       Cost per      Cost on U.S.
                                                                Action                                                   Labor cost                                  Parts cost        product        operators

                                               Inspection ................................   0.25 work-hours × $85 per hour = $21.25 .............................                $0        $21.25        $19,890



                                                 We estimate the following costs to do                         be required based on the results of the                determining the number of aircraft that
                                               any necessary replacements that would                           proposed inspection. We have no way of                 might need these replacements:

                                                                                                                           ON-CONDITION COSTS
                                                                                                                                                                                                       Cost per
                                                                                Action                                                          Labor cost                             Parts cost      product

                                               Remove and replace thrust reverser fire seals ............               2.75 work-hours × $85 per hour = $233.75 .................          $3,228      $3,461.75



                                               Authority for This Rulemaking                                   detail the scope of the Agency’s                       air commerce by prescribing regulations
amozie on DSK30RV082PROD with PROPOSALS




                                                                                                               authority.                                             for practices, methods, and procedures
                                                 Title 49 of the United States Code                                                                                   the Administrator finds necessary for
                                               specifies the FAA’s authority to issue                             We are issuing this rulemaking under
                                                                                                               the authority described in Subtitle VII,               safety in air commerce. This regulation
                                               rules on aviation safety. Subtitle I,                                                                                  is within the scope of that authority
                                                                                                               Part A, Subpart III, Section 44701:
                                               section 106, describes the authority of                                                                                because it addresses an unsafe condition
                                                                                                               ‘‘General requirements.’’ Under that
                                               the FAA Administrator. Subtitle VII:                                                                                   that is likely to exist or develop on
                                                                                                               section, Congress charges the FAA with
                                               Aviation Programs, describes in more
                                                                                                               promoting safe flight of civil aircraft in


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                                               16796                    Federal Register / Vol. 83, No. 74 / Tuesday, April 17, 2018 / Proposed Rules

                                               products identified in this rulemaking                  (a) Comments Due Date                                  (i) Related Information
                                               action.                                                   We must receive comments by June 1,                     (1) For more information about this AD,
                                                 This AD is issued in accordance with                  2018.                                                  contact David Bethka, Aerospace Engineer,
                                               authority delegated by the Executive                                                                           ECO Branch, FAA,1200 District Avenue,
                                                                                                       (b) Affected ADs                                       Burlington, MA 01803; phone: 781–238–
                                               Director, Aircraft Certification Service,
                                               as authorized by FAA Order 8000.51C.                      None.                                                7129; fax: 781–238–7199; email:
                                               In accordance with that order, issuance                                                                        david.bethka@faa.gov.
                                                                                                       (c) Applicability
                                                                                                                                                                 (2) For service information identified in
                                               of ADs is normally a function of the                      This AD applies to all General Electric              this AD, contact General Electric Company,
                                               Compliance and Airworthiness                            Company (GE) CF34–8E turbofan engines.                 1 Neumann Way, Cincinnati, OH 45215;
                                               Division, but during this transition                                                                           telephone 513–552–3272; email
                                               period, the Executive Director has                      (d) Subject
                                                                                                                                                              aviation.fleetsupport@ge.com. You may view
                                               delegated the authority to issue ADs                      Joint Aircraft System Component (JASC)               this referenced service information at the
                                               applicable to engines, propellers, and                  Code 7830, Thrust Reverser.                            FAA, Engine and Propeller Standards
                                               associated appliances to the Manager,                   (e) Unsafe Condition                                   Branch, 1200 District Avenue, Burlington,
                                               Engine and Propeller Standards Branch,                                                                         MA 01803. For information on the
                                                                                                          This AD was prompted by a report from GE            availability of this material at the FAA, call
                                               Policy and Innovation Division.                         regarding a quality escape of nonconforming            781–238–7759.
                                               Regulatory Findings                                     thrust reverser fire seal gaps. We are issuing
                                                                                                       this AD to inspect for nonconforming thrust              Issued in Burlington, Massachusetts, on
                                                 We determined that this proposed AD                   reverser fire seal gaps that could result in a         April 9, 2018.
                                               would not have federalism implications                  fire outside the fire zone. The unsafe                 Robert J. Ganley,
                                               under Executive Order 13132. This                       condition, if not addressed, could result in an        Manager, Engine and Propeller Standards
                                               proposed AD would not have a                            uncontrolled fire, damage to the engine, and           Branch, Aircraft Certification Service.
                                               substantial direct effect on the States, on             damage to the airplane.                                [FR Doc. 2018–07819 Filed 4–16–18; 8:45 am]
                                               the relationship between the national                   (f) Compliance                                         BILLING CODE 4910–13–P
                                               government and the States, or on the                       Comply with this AD within the
                                               distribution of power and                               compliance times specified, unless already
                                               responsibilities among the various                      done.                                                  DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION
                                               levels of government.
                                                 For the reasons discussed above, I                    (g) Required Actions                                   Federal Aviation Administration
                                               certify this proposed regulation:                          (1) For all CF34–8E turbofan engines,
                                                 (1) Is not a ‘‘significant regulatory                 before the engine accumulates 8,000 flight             14 CFR Part 39
                                               action’’ under Executive Order 12866,                   hours after the effective date of this AD,
                                                                                                       perform the following one-time inspection,             [Docket No. FAA–2018–0276; Product
                                                 (2) Is not a ‘‘significant rule’’ under
                                                                                                       and, if needed, replace the core cowl seal and         Identifier 2017–NM–079–AD]
                                               the DOT Regulatory Policies and                         pylon seal.
                                               Procedures (44 FR 11034, February 26,                      (i) Measure the width of the RTV filled gap         RIN 2120–AA64
                                               1979),                                                  between thrust reverser fire seals at the
                                                 (3) Will not affect intrastate aviation               junction between 12 o’clock core cowl seal             Airworthiness Directives; The Boeing
                                               in Alaska, and                                          and pylon seal, at the following half thrust           Company Airplanes
                                                 (4) Will not have a significant                       reverser locations: engine 1 left hand (LH)
                                                                                                                                                              AGENCY: Federal Aviation
                                               economic impact, positive or negative,                  half thrust reverser, part number (P/N)
                                                                                                       15G0002–013; engine 2 LH half thrust                   Administration (FAA), DOT.
                                               on a substantial number of small entities
                                               under the criteria of the Regulatory                    reverser, P/N 15G0002–014; engine 1 right              ACTION: Notice of proposed rulemaking
                                               Flexibility Act.                                        hand (RH) half thrust reverser, P/N 15G0003–           (NPRM).
                                                                                                       013; and engine 2 RH half thrust reverser
                                               List of Subjects in 14 CFR Part 39                      P/N 15G0003–014.                                       SUMMARY:   We propose to adopt a new
                                                                                                          (ii) If the gap width between the 12 o’clock        airworthiness directive (AD) for certain
                                                 Air transportation, Aircraft, Aviation                core cowl seal and the pylon seal is greater
                                               safety, Incorporation by reference,                                                                            The Boeing Company Model 747–100,
                                                                                                       than 1 mm, replace both seals with parts               –100B, –100B SUD, –200B, –200C,
                                               Safety.                                                 eligible for installation to form a new gap of
                                                                                                                                                              –200F, –300, –400, –400D, 747SP, and
                                                                                                       1 mm or less, prior to return to service.
                                               The Proposed Amendment                                                                                         747SR, and 747–8 series airplanes. This
                                                                                                          (2) You may refer to GE CF34–8E Service
                                                 Accordingly, under the authority                      Bulletin 78–0066 R00, dated December 11,               proposed AD was prompted by reports
                                               delegated to me by the Administrator,                   2017 for guidance on inspecting and                    indicating that additional areas of
                                               the FAA proposes to amend 14 CFR part                   replacing the thrust reverser fire seals.              Boeing Material Specification (BMS) 8–
                                               39 as follows:                                                                                                 39 flexible urethane foam were found
                                                                                                       (h) Alternative Methods of Compliance
                                                                                                       (AMOCs)                                                during an inspection required by a
                                               PART 39—AIRWORTHINESS                                                                                          related AD. This proposed AD would
                                                                                                          (1) The Manager, ECO Branch, FAA, has
                                               DIRECTIVES                                                                                                     require inspecting for BMS 8–39 flexible
                                                                                                       the authority to approve AMOCs for this AD,
                                                                                                       if requested using the procedures found in 14          urethane foam insulation in the floor
                                               ■ 1. The authority citation for part 39                                                                        panel assemblies and the power drive
                                                                                                       CFR 39.19. In accordance with 14 CFR 39.19,
                                               continues to read as follows:                           send your request to your principal inspector          unit (PDU) cover assemblies; doing
                                                   Authority: 49 U.S.C. 106(g), 40113, 44701.          or local Flight Standards District Office, as          applicable on-condition actions;
                                                                                                       appropriate. If sending information directly           modifying certain dripshields; and
amozie on DSK30RV082PROD with PROPOSALS




                                               § 39.13   [Amended]                                     to the manager of the certification office,            replacing BMS 8–39 foam strips on
                                               ■ 2. The FAA amends § 39.13 by adding                   send it to the attention of the person                 certain dripshields with BMS 8–371
                                                                                                       identified in paragraph (i)(1) of this AD.             foam strips. We are proposing this AD
                                               the following new airworthiness
                                                                                                          (2) Before using any approved AMOC,
                                               directive (AD):                                                                                                to address the unsafe condition on these
                                                                                                       notify your appropriate principal inspector,
                                               General Electric Company: Docket No. FAA–               or lacking a principal inspector, the manager          products.
                                                  2018–0142; Product Identifier 2018–NE–               of the local Flight Standards District Office/         DATES: We must receive comments on
                                                  04–AD.                                               Certificate Holding District Office.                   this proposed AD by June 1, 2018.


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Document Created: 2018-04-17 02:51:43
Document Modified: 2018-04-17 02:51:43
CategoryRegulatory Information
CollectionFederal Register
sudoc ClassAE 2.7:
GS 4.107:
AE 2.106:
PublisherOffice of the Federal Register, National Archives and Records Administration
SectionProposed Rules
ActionNotice of proposed rulemaking (NPRM).
DatesWe must receive comments on this proposed AD by June 1, 2018.
ContactDavid Bethka, Aerospace Engineer, ECO Branch, FAA, 1200 District Avenue, Burlington, MA 01803; phone: 781- 238-7129; fax: 781-238-7199; email: [email protected]
FR Citation83 FR 16794 
RIN Number2120-AA64
CFR AssociatedAir Transportation; Aircraft; Aviation Safety; Incorporation by Reference and Safety

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