83 FR 45333 - Airworthiness Directives; General Electric Company Turbofan Engines
DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION
Federal Aviation Administration Federal Register Volume 83, Issue 174 (September 7, 2018)
Federal Aviation Administration
Federal Register Volume 83, Issue 174 (September 7, 2018)
| Page Range | 45333-45335 | |
| FR Document | 2018-19282 |
[Federal Register Volume 83, Number 174 (Friday, September 7, 2018)] [Rules and Regulations] [Pages 45333-45335] From the Federal Register Online [www.thefederalregister.org] [FR Doc No: 2018-19282] ======================================================================= ----------------------------------------------------------------------- DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION Federal Aviation Administration 14 CFR Part 39 [Docket No. FAA-2018-0777; Product Identifier 2018-NE-28-AD; Amendment 39-19366; AD 2018-17-12] RIN 2120-AA64 Airworthiness Directives; General Electric Company Turbofan Engines AGENCY: Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), DOT. ACTION: Final rule; request for comments. ----------------------------------------------------------------------- SUMMARY: We are adopting a new airworthiness directive (AD) for all General Electric Company (GE) GE90-76B, GE90-77B, GE90-85B, GE90-90B, and GE90-94B turbofan engines with full authority digital engine control (FADEC) software, version 9.3.2.4 or earlier, installed. This AD requires upgrading the FADEC software to a software version eligible for installation. This AD was prompted by an ice-crystal icing (ICI) event that caused damage to both engines, a single engine stall, and subsequent engine shutdown. We are issuing this AD to address the unsafe condition on these products. DATES: This AD is effective September 24, 2018. We must receive comments on this AD by October 22, 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. 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: U.S. Department of Transportation, Docket Operations, M-30, West Building Ground Floor, Room W12-140, 1200 New Jersey Avenue SE, Washington, DC 20590, between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m., Monday through Friday, except Federal holidays. 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 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. It is also available on the internet at http://www.regulations.gov by searching for and locating Docket No. FAA-2018-0777. 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- 0777; 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 final rule, the regulatory evaluation, any comments received, and other information. The street address for the Docket Operations (phone: 800-647-5527) is listed above. Comments will be available in the AD docket shortly after receipt. FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: John Frost, Aerospace Engineer, ECO Branch, FAA, 1200 District Avenue, Burlington, MA 01803; phone: 781- 238-7756; fax: 781-238-7199; email: [email protected]. SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: Discussion We received a report of a commanded in-flight shutdown and an air turn back shortly after takeoff. After further investigation, the operator found high-pressure compressor (HPC) damage, which was the result of an earlier ICI event. After the ICI event and subsequent progressive HPC damage, engine performance decreased and an engine stall occurred. As a result, GE improved the FADEC software to provide ICI event detection and to provide an alternate variable bypass valve (VBV) schedule that opens the VBV doors to extract ice crystals from the core flowpath and reduce accretion when ICI is detected. This condition, if not addressed, could result in failure of the HPC, failure of one or more engines, loss of thrust control, and loss of the airplane. We are issuing this AD to address the unsafe condition on these products. Related Service Information We reviewed GE GE90 Service Bulletin (SB) 73-0146, dated May 2, 2018. The SB introduces new FADEC software and describes procedures for upgrading the FADEC software. FAA's Determination We are issuing this AD because we evaluated all the relevant information and determined the unsafe condition described previously is likely to exist or [[Page 45334]] develop in other products of the same type design. AD Requirements This AD requires upgrading the FADEC software to a software version eligible for installation. Differences Between the AD and the Service Information GE GE90 SB 73-0146, dated May 2, 2018, recommends that you load the new FADEC software as soon as possible, but no later than six months after the original issue date of the SB. This AD requires compliance within 90 days after the effective date of this AD. We expect this difference to be minimal because the GE SB was issued earlier than this AD. FAA's Justification and Determination of the Effective Date An unsafe condition exists that requires the immediate adoption of this AD without providing an opportunity for public comments prior to adoption. The FAA has found that the risk to the flying public justifies waiving notice and comment prior to adoption of this rule because engine failure due to an ICI event is more likely to occur during the current convective weather season and such failure could result in failure of one or more engines and loss of the airplane. Because of this, the compliance time for the required action is shorter than the time necessary for the public to comment and for us to publish the final rule to ensure the unsafe condition is fixed during the convective weather season. Therefore, we find good cause that notice and opportunity for prior public comment are impracticable. In addition, for the reason stated above, we find that good cause exists for making this amendment effective in less than 30 days. Comments Invited This AD is a final rule that involves requirements affecting flight safety and was not preceded by notice and an opportunity for public comment. However, we invite you to send any written data, views, or arguments about this final rule. Send your comments to an address listed under the ADDRESSES section. Include the docket number FAA-2018- 0777 and Product Identifier 2018-NE-28-AD at the beginning of your comments. We specifically invite comments on the overall regulatory, economic, environmental, and energy aspects of this final rule. We will consider all comments received by the closing date and may amend this final rule 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 final rule. Costs of Compliance We estimate that this AD affects 57 engines installed on airplanes of U.S. registry. We estimate the following costs to comply with this AD: Estimated Costs ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Cost per Cost on U.S. Action Labor cost Parts cost product operators ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Upgrade the FADEC software............ 1 work-hour x $85 per $0 $85 $4,845 hour = $85. ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Authority for This Rulemaking Title 49 of the United States Code specifies the FAA's authority to issue rules on aviation safety. Subtitle I, section 106, describes the authority of the FAA Administrator. ``Subtitle VII: Aviation Programs'' describes in more detail the scope of the Agency's authority. We are issuing this rulemaking under the authority described in Subtitle VII, Part A, Subpart III, Section 44701: ``General requirements.'' Under that section, Congress charges the FAA with promoting safe flight of civil aircraft in air commerce by prescribing regulations for practices, methods, and procedures the Administrator finds necessary for safety in air commerce. This regulation is within the scope of that authority because it addresses an unsafe condition that is likely to exist or develop on products identified in this rulemaking action. 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 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, 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): 2018-17-12 General Electric Company: Amendment 39-19366; Docket No. FAA-2018-0777; Product Identifier 2018-NE-28-AD. (a) Effective Date This AD is effective September 24, 2018. (b) Affected ADs None. [[Page 45335]] (c) Applicability This AD applies to all GE GE90-76B, GE90-77B, GE90-85B, GE90- 90B, and GE90-94B turbofan engines with full authority digital engine control (FADEC) software, version 9.3.2.4 or earlier, installed. (d) Subject Joint Aircraft System Component (JASC) Code 7230, Turbine Engine Compressor Section. (e) Unsafe Condition This AD was prompted by an ice-crystal icing event that caused damage to both engines, a single engine stall, and subsequent engine shutdown. We are issuing this AD to prevent failure of the high- pressure compressor (HPC). The unsafe condition, if not addressed, could result in failure of the HPC, failure of one or more engines, loss of thrust control, and loss of the airplane. (f) Compliance Comply with this AD within the compliance times specified, unless already done. (g) Required Actions (1) Within 90 days after the effective date of this AD, remove FADEC software, version 9.3.2.4 or earlier, from the engine. (2) Install a FADEC software version eligible for installation. (h) Installation Prohibition Within 90 days after the effective date of this AD, do not operate any engine with FADEC software, version 9.3.2.4 or earlier, installed. (i) 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 (j) of this AD. You may email your request to: [email protected]. (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. (j) Related Information For more information about this AD, contact John Frost, Aerospace Engineer, ECO Branch, FAA, 1200 District Avenue, Burlington, MA, 01803; phone: 781-238-7756; fax: 781-238-7199; email: [email protected]. (k) Material Incorporated by Reference None. Issued in Burlington, Massachusetts, on August 30, 2018. Karen M. Grant, Acting Manager, Engine and Propeller Standards Branch, Aircraft Certification Service. [FR Doc. 2018-19282 Filed 9-6-18; 8:45 am] BILLING CODE 4910-13-P
![Federal Register / Vol. 83, No. 174 / Friday, September 7, 2018 / Rules and Regulations 45333
the Act’s new partial exemptions may DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION on the availability of this material at the
present their data to the Bureau, but it FAA, call 781–238–7759. It is also
does not alter those institutions’ rights Federal Aviation Administration available on the internet at http://
or interests or encode substantive value www.regulations.gov by searching for
judgments beyond furthering efficiency 14 CFR Part 39 and locating Docket No. FAA–2018–
and operational goals. This interpretive [Docket No. FAA–2018–0777; Product 0777.
and procedural rule is exempt from Identifier 2018–NE–28–AD; Amendment 39– Examining the AD Docket
notice-and-comment rulemaking 19366; AD 2018–17–12]
requirements under the Administrative You may examine the AD docket on
RIN 2120–AA64 the internet at http://
Procedure Act, 5 U.S.C. 553(b). Because
www.regulations.gov by searching for
no notice of proposed rulemaking is Airworthiness Directives; General
and locating Docket No. FAA–2018–
required, the Regulatory Flexibility Act Electric Company Turbofan Engines
0777; or in person at Docket Operations
does not require an initial or final between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m., Monday
AGENCY: Federal Aviation
regulatory flexibility analysis.58 Administration (FAA), DOT. through Friday, except Federal holidays.
The Bureau has determined that this ACTION: Final rule; request for The AD docket contains this final rule,
interpretive and procedural rule does comments. the regulatory evaluation, any
not impose any new or revise any comments received, and other
existing recordkeeping, reporting, or SUMMARY: We are adopting a new information. The street address for the
disclosure requirements on covered airworthiness directive (AD) for all Docket Operations (phone: 800–647–
entities or members of the public that General Electric Company (GE) GE90– 5527) is listed above. Comments will be
would be collections of information 76B, GE90–77B, GE90–85B, GE90–90B, available in the AD docket shortly after
requiring approval by the Office of and GE90–94B turbofan engines with receipt.
Management and Budget under the full authority digital engine control FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: John
Paperwork Reduction Act, 44 U.S.C. (FADEC) software, version 9.3.2.4 or Frost, Aerospace Engineer, ECO Branch,
3501 through 3521. To the extent that earlier, installed. This AD requires FAA, 1200 District Avenue, Burlington,
eligible reporters may take advantage of upgrading the FADEC software to a MA 01803; phone: 781–238–7756; fax:
the Act’s partial exemptions, the Bureau software version eligible for installation. 781–238–7199; email: john.frost@
This AD was prompted by an ice-crystal faa.gov.
lacks sufficient information at present to
icing (ICI) event that caused damage to
estimate the potential burden reduction. SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION:
both engines, a single engine stall, and
When the Bureau has sufficient data to subsequent engine shutdown. We are Discussion
make an estimate, it will revise its issuing this AD to address the unsafe
burden estimates as appropriate. We received a report of a commanded
condition on these products.
in-flight shutdown and an air turn back
XII. Congressional Review Act DATES: This AD is effective September shortly after takeoff. After further
24, 2018. investigation, the operator found high-
Pursuant to the Congressional Review We must receive comments on this pressure compressor (HPC) damage,
Act,59 the Bureau will submit a report AD by October 22, 2018. which was the result of an earlier ICI
containing this interpretive rule and ADDRESSES: You may send comments, event. After the ICI event and
other required information to the U.S. using the procedures found in 14 CFR subsequent progressive HPC damage,
Senate, the U.S. House of 11.43 and 11.45, by any of the following engine performance decreased and an
Representatives, and the Comptroller methods: engine stall occurred. As a result, GE
General of the United States prior to the • Federal eRulemaking Portal: Go to improved the FADEC software to
rule’s published effective date. The http://www.regulations.gov. Follow the provide ICI event detection and to
Office of Information and Regulatory instructions for submitting comments. provide an alternate variable bypass
Affairs has designated this interpretive • Fax: 202–493–2251. valve (VBV) schedule that opens the
rule as not a ‘‘major rule’’ as defined by • Mail: U.S. Department of VBV doors to extract ice crystals from
5 U.S.C. 804(2). Transportation, Docket Operations, the core flowpath and reduce accretion
Dated: August 30, 2018.
M–30, West Building Ground Floor, when ICI is detected. This condition, if
Room W12–140, 1200 New Jersey not addressed, could result in failure of
Mick Mulvaney, Avenue SE, Washington, DC 20590. the HPC, failure of one or more engines,
Acting Director, Bureau of Consumer • Hand Delivery: U.S. Department of loss of thrust control, and loss of the
Financial Protection. Transportation, Docket Operations, airplane. We are issuing this AD to
[FR Doc. 2018–19244 Filed 9–6–18; 8:45 am] M–30, West Building Ground Floor, address the unsafe condition on these
BILLING CODE 4810–AM–P Room W12–140, 1200 New Jersey products.
Avenue SE, Washington, DC 20590,
between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m., Monday Related Service Information
through Friday, except Federal holidays. We reviewed GE GE90 Service
For service information identified in Bulletin (SB) 73–0146, dated May 2,
this final rule, contact General Electric 2018. The SB introduces new FADEC
Company, GE Aviation, Room 285, 1 software and describes procedures for
Neumann Way, Cincinnati, OH 45215;
daltland on DSKBBV9HB2PROD with RULES
upgrading the FADEC software.
phone: 513–552–3272; email:
aviation.fleetsupport@ge.com. You may FAA’s Determination
view this service information at the We are issuing this AD because we
FAA, Engine and Propeller Standards evaluated all the relevant information
58 5 U.S.C. 603(a), 604(a). Branch, 1200 District Avenue, and determined the unsafe condition
59 5 U.S.C. 801–808. Burlington, MA 01803. For information described previously is likely to exist or
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![45334 Federal Register / Vol. 83, No. 174 / Friday, September 7, 2018 / Rules and Regulations
develop in other products of the same flying public justifies waiving notice written data, views, or arguments about
type design. and comment prior to adoption of this this final rule. Send your comments to
rule because engine failure due to an ICI an address listed under the ADDRESSES
AD Requirements
event is more likely to occur during the section. Include the docket number
This AD requires upgrading the current convective weather season and FAA–2018–0777 and Product Identifier
FADEC software to a software version such failure could result in failure of 2018–NE–28–AD at the beginning of
eligible for installation. one or more engines and loss of the your comments. We specifically invite
Differences Between the AD and the airplane. Because of this, the comments on the overall regulatory,
Service Information compliance time for the required action economic, environmental, and energy
is shorter than the time necessary for the aspects of this final rule. We will
GE GE90 SB 73–0146, dated May 2, public to comment and for us to publish consider all comments received by the
2018, recommends that you load the the final rule to ensure the unsafe closing date and may amend this final
new FADEC software as soon as
condition is fixed during the convective rule because of those comments.
possible, but no later than six months
weather season. Therefore, we find good We will post all comments we
after the original issue date of the SB.
cause that notice and opportunity for receive, without change, to http://
This AD requires compliance within 90
prior public comment are impracticable. www.regulations.gov, including any
days after the effective date of this AD.
In addition, for the reason stated above, personal information you provide. We
We expect this difference to be minimal
we find that good cause exists for will also post a report summarizing each
because the GE SB was issued earlier
making this amendment effective in less substantive verbal contact we receive
than this AD.
than 30 days. about this final rule.
FAA’s Justification and Determination
of the Effective Date Comments Invited Costs of Compliance
An unsafe condition exists that This AD is a final rule that involves We estimate that this AD affects 57
requires the immediate adoption of this requirements affecting flight safety and engines installed on airplanes of U.S.
AD without providing an opportunity was not preceded by notice and an registry.
for public comments prior to adoption. opportunity for public comment. We estimate the following costs to
The FAA has found that the risk to the However, we invite you to send any comply with this AD:
ESTIMATED COSTS
Cost per Cost on U.S.
Action Labor cost Parts cost product operators
Upgrade the FADEC software ........................ 1 work-hour × $85 per hour = $85 ................. $0 $85 $4,845
Authority for This Rulemaking period, the Executive Director has List of Subjects in 14 CFR Part 39
Title 49 of the United States Code delegated the authority to issue ADs
applicable to engines, propellers, and Air transportation, Aircraft, Aviation
specifies the FAA’s authority to issue safety, Incorporation by reference,
rules on aviation safety. Subtitle I, associated appliances to the Manager,
Engine and Propeller Standards Branch, Safety.
section 106, describes the authority of
the FAA Administrator. ‘‘Subtitle VII: Policy and Innovation Division. Adoption of the Amendment
Aviation Programs’’ describes in more Regulatory Findings Accordingly, under the authority
detail the scope of the Agency’s delegated to me by the Administrator,
authority. This AD will not have federalism
the FAA amends 14 CFR part 39 as
We are issuing this rulemaking under implications under Executive Order
follows:
the authority described in Subtitle VII, 13132. This AD will not have a
Part A, Subpart III, Section 44701: substantial direct effect on the States, on PART 39—AIRWORTHINESS
‘‘General requirements.’’ Under that the relationship between the national DIRECTIVES
section, Congress charges the FAA with government and the States, or on the
promoting safe flight of civil aircraft in distribution of power and ■ 1. The authority citation for part 39
air commerce by prescribing regulations responsibilities among the various continues to read as follows:
for practices, methods, and procedures levels of government.
Authority: 49 U.S.C. 106(g), 40113, 44701.
the Administrator finds necessary for For the reasons discussed above, I
safety in air commerce. This regulation certify that this AD: § 39.13 [Amended]
is within the scope of that authority (1) Is not a ‘‘significant regulatory
because it addresses an unsafe condition ■ 2. The FAA amends § 39.13 by adding
action’’ under Executive Order 12866,
that is likely to exist or develop on the following new airworthiness
(2) Is not a ‘‘significant rule’’ under directive (AD):
products identified in this rulemaking
DOT Regulatory Policies and Procedures
action. 2018–17–12 General Electric Company:
(44 FR 11034, February 26, 1979),
This AD is issued in accordance with Amendment 39–19366; Docket No.
authority delegated by the Executive (3) Will not affect intrastate aviation FAA–2018–0777; Product Identifier
daltland on DSKBBV9HB2PROD with RULES
Director, Aircraft Certification Service, in Alaska, and 2018–NE–28–AD.
as authorized by FAA Order 8000.51C. (4) Will not have a significant (a) Effective Date
In accordance with that order, issuance economic impact, positive or negative, This AD is effective September 24, 2018.
of ADs is normally a function of the on a substantial number of small entities
Compliance and Airworthiness under the criteria of the Regulatory (b) Affected ADs
Division, but during this transition Flexibility Act. None.
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(c) Applicability Issued in Burlington, Massachusetts, on 1050; or in person at Docket Operations
This AD applies to all GE GE90–76B, August 30, 2018. between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m., Monday
GE90–77B, GE90–85B, GE90–90B, and GE90– Karen M. Grant, through Friday, except Federal holidays.
94B turbofan engines with full authority Acting Manager, Engine and Propeller The AD docket contains this AD, the
digital engine control (FADEC) software, Standards Branch, Aircraft Certification mandatory continuing airworthiness
version 9.3.2.4 or earlier, installed. Service. information (MCAI), the regulatory
[FR Doc. 2018–19282 Filed 9–6–18; 8:45 am] evaluation, any comments received, and
(d) Subject
BILLING CODE 4910–13–P other information. The address for
Joint Aircraft System Component (JASC) Docket Operations (phone: 800–647–
Code 7230, Turbine Engine Compressor 5527) is U.S. Department of
Section. DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION Transportation, Docket Operations,
(e) Unsafe Condition M–30, West Building Ground Floor,
Federal Aviation Administration Room W12–140, 1200 New Jersey
This AD was prompted by an ice-crystal
Avenue SE, Washington, DC, 20590.
icing event that caused damage to both 14 CFR Part 39
FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT:
engines, a single engine stall, and subsequent
engine shutdown. We are issuing this AD to [Docket No. FAA–2017–1050; Product Barbara Caufield, Aerospace Engineer,
prevent failure of the high-pressure
Identifier 2017–NE–39–AD; Amendment 39– ECO Branch, FAA, 1200 District
19393; AD 2018–18–14] Avenue, Burlington, MA, 01803; phone:
compressor (HPC). The unsafe condition, if
not addressed, could result in failure of the 781–238–7146; fax: 781–238–7199;
RIN 2120–AA64
HPC, failure of one or more engines, loss of email: barbara.caufield@faa.gov.
thrust control, and loss of the airplane. Airworthiness Directives; Rolls-Royce SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION:
Deutschland Ltd & Co KG Turbofan Discussion
(f) Compliance
Engines
Comply with this AD within the We issued a notice of proposed
compliance times specified, unless already AGENCY: Federal Aviation rulemaking (NPRM) to amend 14 CFR
done. Administration (FAA), DOT. part 39 by adding an AD that would
ACTION: Final rule. apply to certain RRD BR700–710A2–20
(g) Required Actions
and BR700–710C4–11 turbofan engines.
(1) Within 90 days after the effective date SUMMARY: We are adopting a new The NPRM published in the Federal
of this AD, remove FADEC software, version airworthiness directive (AD) for certain Register on February 12, 2018 (83 FR
9.3.2.4 or earlier, from the engine. Rolls-Royce Deutschland Ltd & Co KG 5963). The NPRM was prompted by
(2) Install a FADEC software version (RRD) BR700–710A2–20 and BR700– reports of deterioration of the
eligible for installation. 710C4–11 turbofan engines. This AD intumescent heat resistant paint system
(h) Installation Prohibition
was prompted by reports of on the EEC firebox assembly that was
deterioration of the intumescent heat found to be beyond acceptable limits.
Within 90 days after the effective date of resistant paint system on the electronic The NPRM proposed to require
this AD, do not operate any engine with engine controller (EEC) firebox assembly replacement of affected EEC firebox
FADEC software, version 9.3.2.4 or earlier, that was found to be beyond acceptable assembly parts with improved parts,
installed. limits. This AD requires replacement of which have a more durable paint
(i) Alternative Methods of Compliance affected EEC firebox assembly parts system. We are issuing this AD to
(AMOCs) with improved parts, which have a more address the unsafe condition on these
(1) The Manager, ECO Branch, FAA, has durable paint system. We are issuing products.
the authority to approve AMOCs for this AD, this AD to address the unsafe condition The European Aviation Safety Agency
if requested using the procedures found in 14 on these products. (EASA), which is the Technical Agent
CFR 39.19. In accordance with 14 CFR 39.19, DATES: This AD becomes effective for the Member States of the European
send your request to your principal inspector October 12, 2018. Community, has issued EASA AD 2017–
or local Flight Standards District Office, as ADDRESSES: For service information 0198, dated October 10, 2017 (referred
appropriate. If sending information directly identified in this final rule, contact to after this as ‘‘the MCAI’’), to address
to the manager of the certification office, Rolls-Royce Deutschland Ltd & Co KG, the unsafe condition on these products.
send it to the attention of the person Eschenweg 11, Dahlewitz, 15827 The MCAI states:
identified in paragraph (j) of this AD. You Blankenfelde-Mahlow, Germany; phone: Occurrences were reported where
may email your request to: ANE-AD-AMOC@ +49 (0) 33 7086 2673; fax: +49 (0) 33 deterioration of an Electronic Engine
faa.gov. 7086 3276. You may view this service Controller (EEC) firebox assembly
(2) Before using any approved AMOC, information at the FAA, Engine & intumescent heat resistant paint system was
notify your appropriate principal inspector, found to be beyond acceptable limits.
Propeller Standards Branch, 1200 Subsequent investigation determined that
or lacking a principal inspector, the manager District Avenue, Burlington, MA, 01803.
of the local flight standards district office/ lack of paint adhesion, due to incorrect
For information on the availability of surface preparation during manufacturing,
certificate holding district office.
this material at the FAA, call 781–238– had caused this deterioration.
(j) Related Information 7759. It is also available on the internet This condition, if not corrected, could
at http://www.regulations.gov by reduce the fire protection capability of the
For more information about this AD,
searching for and locating Docket No. EEC firebox, possibly leading to reduced
contact John Frost, Aerospace Engineer, ECO control of an engine during engine fire,
daltland on DSKBBV9HB2PROD with RULES
Branch, FAA, 1200 District Avenue, FAA–2017–1050.
engine overspeed and release of high-energy
Burlington, MA, 01803; phone: 781–238– Examining the AD Docket debris, resulting in damage to, and/or
7756; fax: 781–238–7199; email: john.frost@ reduced control of, the aeroplane.
faa.gov. You may examine the AD docket on To address this potential unsafe condition,
the internet at http:// RRD issued Alert SB SB–BR700–73–
(k) Material Incorporated by Reference www.regulations.gov by searching for A101977, SB–BR700–73–A101981 and SB–
None. and locating Docket No. FAA–2017– BR700–73–A101985 to provide modification
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Document Created: 2018-09-07 00:15:43
Document Modified: 2018-09-07 00:15:43
| Category | Regulatory Information | |
| Collection | Federal Register | |
| sudoc Class | AE 2.7: GS 4.107: AE 2.106: | |
| Publisher | Office of the Federal Register, National Archives and Records Administration | |
| Section | Rules and Regulations | |
| Action | Final rule; request for comments. | |
| Dates | This AD is effective September 24, 2018. | |
| Contact | John Frost, Aerospace Engineer, ECO Branch, FAA, 1200 District Avenue, Burlington, MA 01803; phone: 781- 238-7756; fax: 781-238-7199; email: [email protected] | |
| FR Citation | 83 FR 45333 | |
| RIN Number | 2120-AA64 | |
| CFR Associated | Air Transportation; Aircraft; Aviation Safety; Incorporation by Reference and Safety |
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