Airworthiness Directives; Rolls-Royce plc RB211 Trent 700 Series Turbofan Engines, 2603-2606 [E7-684]

Download as PDF sroberts on PROD1PC70 with RULES Federal Register / Vol. 72, No. 13 / Monday, January 22, 2007 / Rules and Regulations tree nuts, and less than 7 percent of the world’s hazelnut production. Last season, 85 percent of the domestically produced hazelnut kernels were marketed in the domestic market and 15 percent were exported. Domestically produced kernels generally command a higher price in the domestic market than imported kernels. The industry is continuing its efforts to develop and expand other markets with emphasis on the domestic kernel market. Small business entities, both producers and handlers, benefit from the expansion efforts resulting from this program. Inshell hazelnuts produced under the order compete well in export markets because of their high quality. Based on Board statistics, Europe has historically been the primary export market for U.S. produced inshell hazelnuts. Shipments have also been relatively consistent, not varying much from the 10 year average of 4,958 tons. Recent years, though, have seen a significant increase in export destinations. Last season, inshell shipments to Europe totaled 4,622 tons, representing just 38 percent of exports, with the largest share going to Germany. Inshell shipments to Southwest Pacific countries, and Hong Kong in particular, have increased dramatically in the past few years, rising to 50 percent of total exports of 12,042 tons for the 2005–2006 marketing year. The industry continues to pursue export opportunities. There are some reporting, recordkeeping, and other compliance requirements under the order. The reporting and recordkeeping burdens are necessary for compliance purposes and for developing statistical data for maintenance of the program. The information collection requirements have been previously approved by the Office of Management and Budget under OMB No. 0581–0178. The forms require information which is readily available from handler records and which can be provided without data processing equipment or trained statistical staff. As with all Federal marketing order programs, reports and forms are periodically reviewed to reduce information requirements and duplication by industry and public sector agencies. This rule does not change those requirements. The AMS is committed to complying with the E-Government Act, to promote the use of the Internet and other information technologies to provide increased opportunities for citizen access to Government information and services, and for other purposes. In addition, USDA has not identified any relevant Federal rules that VerDate Aug<31>2005 15:59 Jan 19, 2007 Jkt 211001 duplicate, overlap, or conflict with this rule. Further, the Board’s meetings were widely publicized throughout the hazelnut industry and all interested persons were invited to attend the meetings and participate in Board deliberations. Like all Board meetings, those held on August 24 and November 15, 2006, were public meetings and all entities, both large and small, were able to express their views on this issue. Finally, interested persons are invited to submit information on the regulatory and informational impacts of this action on small businesses. A small business guide on complying with fruit, vegetable, and specialty crop marketing agreements and orders may be viewed at: https://www.ams.usda.gov/ fv/moab.html. Any questions about the compliance guide should be sent to Jay Guerber at the previously mentioned address in the FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT section. This rule invites comments on the establishment of final free and restricted percentages for the 2006–2007 marketing year under the hazelnut marketing order. Any comments received will be considered prior to finalization of this rule. After consideration of all relevant material presented, including the Board’s recommendation, and other information, it is found that this interim final rule, as hereinafter set forth, will tend to effectuate the declared policy of the Act. Pursuant to 5 U.S.C. 553, it is also found and determined upon good cause that it is impracticable, unnecessary, and contrary to the public interest to give preliminary notice prior to putting this rule into effect and that good cause exists for not postponing the effective date of this action until 30 days after publication in the Federal Register because: (1) The 2006–2007 marketing year began July 1, 2006, and the percentages established herein apply to all merchantable hazelnuts handled from the beginning of the crop year; (2) the percentages make the full trade demand available so handlers can take advantage of inshell marketing opportunities; (3) handlers are aware of this rule, which was recommended at an open Board meeting, and need no additional time to comply with this rule; and (4) interested persons are provided a 60-day comment period in which to respond, and all comments timely received will be considered prior to finalization of this action. PO 00000 Frm 00007 Fmt 4700 Sfmt 4700 2603 List of Subjects in 7 CFR Part 982 Filberts, Hazelnuts, Marketing agreements, Nuts, Reporting and recordkeeping requirements. I For the reasons set forth in the preamble, 7 CFR part 982 is amended as follows: PART 982—HAZELNUTS GROWN IN OREGON AND WASHINGTON 1. The authority citation for 7 CFR part 982 continues to read as follows: I Authority: 7 U.S.C. 601–674. 2. A new subpart and § 982.254 are added to read as follows: I Subpart—Free and Restricted Percentages § 982.254 Free and restricted percentages—2006–2007 marketing year. The final free and restricted percentages for merchantable hazelnuts for the 2006–2007 marketing year shall be 8.2840 percent and 91.7160 percent, respectively. Dated: January 16, 2007. Lloyd C. Day, Administrator, Agricultural Marketing Service. [FR Doc. E7–763 Filed 1–19–07; 8:45 am] BILLING CODE 3410–02–P DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION Federal Aviation Administration 14 CFR Part 39 [Docket No. FAA–2005–19559; Directorate Identifier 2004–NE–03–AD; Amendment 39– 14892; AD 2007–02–05] RIN 2120–AA64 Airworthiness Directives; Rolls-Royce plc RB211 Trent 700 Series Turbofan Engines Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), Department of Transportation (DOT). ACTION: Final rule; request for comments. AGENCY: SUMMARY: The FAA is superseding an existing airworthiness directive (AD) for Rolls-Royce plc (RR) RB211 Trent 700 series turbofan engines. That AD currently requires initial and repetitive borescope inspections of the high pressure-and-intermediate pressure (HPIP) turbine internal and external oil vent tubes for coking and carbon buildup, and cleaning or replacing the vent tubes if necessary. This AD requires the same actions but uses more stringent tube E:\FR\FM\22JAR1.SGM 22JAR1 sroberts on PROD1PC70 with RULES 2604 Federal Register / Vol. 72, No. 13 / Monday, January 22, 2007 / Rules and Regulations replacement criteria than the previous AD. This AD results from a recent incident where an RB211 Trent 700 series turbofan engine had an oil vent tube rupture as a result of blockage, leading to significant loss of engine oil. The incident indicates that further measures are necessary to control carbon buildup in the oil vent tubes. We are issuing this AD to prevent internal oil fires due to coking and carbon buildup, that could cause uncontained engine failure and damage to the airplane. DATES: Effective February 6, 2007. The Director of the Federal Register approved the incorporation by reference of certain publications listed in the regulations as of February 6, 2007. We must receive any comments on this AD by March 23, 2007. ADDRESSES: Use one of the following addresses to comment on this proposed AD. • DOT Docket Web site: Go to https://dms.dot.gov and follow the instructions for sending your comments electronically. • Government-wide rulemaking Web site: Go to https://www.regulations.gov and follow the instructions for sending your comments electronically. • Mail: Docket Management Facility; U.S. Department of Transportation, 400 Seventh Street, SW., Nassif Building, Room PL–401, Washington, DC 20590– 0001. • Fax: (202) 493–2251. • Hand Delivery: Room PL–401 on the plaza level of the Nassif Building, 400 Seventh Street, SW., Washington, DC, between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m., Monday through Friday, except Federal holidays. Contact Rolls-Royce plc, PO Box 31, Derby, England; telephone: 011–44– 1332–249428; fax: 011–44–1332– 249223, for the service information identified in this AD. FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Christopher Spinney, Aerospace Engineer, Engine Certification Office, FAA, Engine and Propeller Directorate, 12 New England Executive Park, Burlington, MA 01803–5299; telephone (781) 238–7175; fax (781) 238–7199. SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: On November 1, 2004, we issued AD 2004– 23–03, Amendment 39–13858 (69 FR 64653, November 8, 2004). That AD requires initial and repetitive borescope inspections of the HP–IP turbine internal and external oil vent tubes for coking and carbon buildup, and cleaning or replacing the vent tubes if necessary. That AD was the result of a report of an RB211 Trent 700 series engine experiencing a disk shaft separation, overspeed of the IP turbine VerDate Aug<31>2005 15:59 Jan 19, 2007 Jkt 211001 rotor, and multiple blade release of IP turbine blades. The findings suggested these events resulted from an internal oil fire in the HP–IP turbine oil vent tubes due to coking and carbon buildup. This fire led to a second fire in the internal air cavity below the IP turbine disk drive shaft. That condition, if not corrected, could result in uncontained engine failure and damage to the airplane. Actions Since AD 2004–23–03 Was Issued Since AD 2004–23–03 was issued, the European Aviation Safety Agency (EASA), which is the airworthiness authority for the European Union, notified us that an unsafe condition may exist on RB211 Trent 700 series turbofan engines. EASA advises that recently an oil vent tube ruptured as a result of blockage, leading to significant loss of engine oil, on an RB211 Trent 700 series turbofan engine. This incident indicates that further measures are necessary to control carbon buildup in the oil vent tubes. Relevant Service Information We have reviewed and approved the technical contents of RR Alert Service Bulletin (ASB) No. RB.211–72–AE302, Revision 3, dated September 20, 2006. That ASB describes procedures for borescope inspections, cleaning, and replacement if necessary of the internal and external oil vent tubes. For internal oil vent tubes to pass inspection, they must allow cleaning tool, number HU80298 to pass through them. AD 2004–23–03 was less stringent in that it allowed tubes that an 8 mm or 6 mm diameter borescope could pass through, back into service. EASA classified this ASB as mandatory and issued AD 2006– 0355, dated December 4, 2006, in order to ensure the airworthiness of these RB211 Trent 700 series turbofan engines in Europe. Bilateral Airworthiness Agreement These engine models are manufactured in the United Kingdom and are type certificated for operation in the United States under the provisions of section 21.29 of the Federal Aviation Regulations (14 CFR 21.29) and the applicable bilateral airworthiness agreement. Under this bilateral airworthiness agreement, EASA kept the FAA informed of the situation described above. We have examined the findings of EASA, reviewed all available information, and determined that AD action is necessary for products of this type design that are certificated for operation in the United States. PO 00000 Frm 00008 Fmt 4700 Sfmt 4700 FAA’s Determination and Requirements of This AD Although no airplanes that are registered in the United States use these RB211 Trent 700 series turbofan engines, the possibility exists that the engines could be used on airplanes that are registered in the United States in the future. The unsafe condition described previously is likely to exist or develop on other RB211 Trent 700 series turbofan engines of the same type design. This AD requires initial and repetitive borescope inspections of the HP-IP turbine internal and external oil vent tubes for coking and carbon buildup, and cleaning or replacing the vent tubes if necessary. We are issuing this AD to prevent internal oil fires due to coking and carbon buildup, that could cause uncontained engine failure and damage to the airplane. You must use the service information described previously to perform the actions required by this AD. FAA’s Determination of the Effective Date Since there are currently no domestic operators of this engine model, notice and opportunity for public comment before issuing this AD are unnecessary. Therefore, a situation exists that allows the immediate adoption of this regulation. 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 us any written relevant data, views, or arguments regarding this AD. Send your comments to an address listed under ADDRESSES. Include ‘‘AD Docket No. FAA–2005–19559; Directorate Identifier 2004–NE–03–AD’’ in the subject line of your comments. We specifically invite comments on the overall regulatory, economic, environmental, and energy aspects of the rule that might suggest a need to modify it. We will post all comments we receive, without change, to https:// dms.dot.gov, including any personal information you provide. We will also post a report summarizing each substantive verbal contact with FAA personnel concerning this AD. Using the search function of the DMS Web site, anyone can find and read the comments in any of our dockets, including the name of the individual who sent the comment (or signed the comment on behalf of an association, business, labor union, etc.). You may review the DOT’s complete Privacy Act Statement in the E:\FR\FM\22JAR1.SGM 22JAR1 Federal Register / Vol. 72, No. 13 / Monday, January 22, 2007 / Rules and Regulations Federal Register published on April 11, 2000 (65 FR 19477–78) or you may visit https://dms.dot.gov. Examining the AD Docket You may examine the docket that contains the AD, any comments received, and any final disposition in person at the Docket Management Facility Docket Office between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m., Monday through Friday, except Federal holidays. The Docket Office (telephone (800) 647–5227) is located on the plaza level of the Department of Transportation Nassif Building at the street address stated in ADDRESSES. Comments will be available in the AD docket shortly after the DMS receives them. 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 the 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); and 3. 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. We prepared a summary of the costs to comply with this AD and placed it in the AD Docket. You may get a copy of this summary by sending a request to us at the address listed under ADDRESSES. 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. I Regulatory Findings We have determined that this AD will not have federalism implications under 2. The FAA amends § 39.13 by removing Amendment 39–13858 (69 FR 64653, November 8, 2004), and by List of Subjects in 14 CFR Part 39 Air transportation, Aircraft, Aviation safety, Incorporation by reference, Safety. Adoption of the Amendment Under the authority delegated to me by the Administrator, the Federal Aviation Administration amends part 39 of the Federal Aviation Regulations (14 CFR part 39) as follows: 2605 adding a new airworthiness directive, Amendment 39–14892, to read as follows: 2007–02–05 Rolls-Royce plc: Amendment 39–14892. Docket No. FAA–2005–19559; Directorate Identifier 2004–NE–03–AD. Effective Date (a) This airworthiness directive (AD) becomes effective February 6, 2007. Affected ADs (b) This AD supersedes AD 2004–23–03. Applicability (c) This AD applies to Rolls-Royce plc (RR) RB211 Trent 768–60, RB211 Trent 772–60, and RB211 Trent 772B–60 series turbofan engines. These engines are installed on, but not limited to, Airbus A330–243, –341, –342 and –343 series airplanes. Unsafe Condition (d) This AD results from a recent incident where an RB211 Trent 700 series turbofan engine had an oil vent tube rupture as a result of blockage, leading to significant loss of engine oil. The incident indicates that further measures are necessary to control carbon buildup in the oil vent tubes. We are issuing this AD to prevent internal oil fires due to coking and carbon buildup, that could cause uncontained engine failure and damage to the airplane. Compliance PART 39—AIRWORTHINESS DIRECTIVES (e) You are responsible for having the actions required by this AD performed within the compliance times specified unless the actions have already been done. 1. The authority citation for part 39 continues to read as follows: Initial Inspections, Cleaning, and Replacements I Authority: 49 U.S.C. 106(g), 40113, 44701. § 39.13 [Amended] (f) Using the schedule in Table 1 of this AD, borescope-inspect and clean as necessary, the high pressure-andintermediate pressure (HP–IP) turbine internal oil vent tubes, external oil vent tubes, and bearing chamber. TABLE 1.—INITIAL INSPECTION SCHEDULE Then initially inspect: Has reached 10,000 hours time-since-new (TSN) or reached 2,500 cycles-since-new (CSN) on the effective date of this AD. Has fewer than 10,000 hours TSN or fewer than 2,500 CSN on the effective date of this AD. Is returned for a shop visit ....................................................................... sroberts on PROD1PC70 with RULES If the engine or the 05 Module: Within 3 months after the effective date of this AD. (g) If after cleaning, there is still carbon in the vent tube that prevents cleaning tool, number HU80298, from passing through the tube, then replace the internal oil vent tube within 10 cycles-in-service (CIS). (h) If after cleaning, there is still carbon of visible thickness in either of the two external oil vent tubes, then replace the external oil vent tube before further flight. VerDate Aug<31>2005 15:59 Jan 19, 2007 Jkt 211001 Within 3 months after reaching 10,000 hours TSN or 2,500 CSN, whichever occurs first. Before returning to service. Repetitive Inspections, Cleaning, and Replacements (i) Within 6,400 hours time-in-service since last inspection and cleaning, or within 1,600 cycles-since-last inspection and cleaning, or at the next engine shop visit, whichever occurs first, borescope-inspect the HP-IP turbine internal and external oil vent tubes and bearing chamber, and clean the oil vent tubes as necessary. PO 00000 Frm 00009 Fmt 4700 Sfmt 4700 (j) If after cleaning there is still carbon in the internal oil vent tube that prevents cleaning tool, number HU80298, from passing through the tube, then replace the internal oil vent tube within 10 CIS. (k) If after cleaning there is still carbon of visible thickness, in either of the two external oil vent tubes, then replace the external oil vent tube before further flight. E:\FR\FM\22JAR1.SGM 22JAR1 2606 Federal Register / Vol. 72, No. 13 / Monday, January 22, 2007 / Rules and Regulations Inspection and Cleaning Procedures (l) Use paragraphs 3.A. through 3.A.(4)(b) of the Accomplishment Instructions of RollsRoyce plc Alert Service Bulletin No. RB.211– 72–AE302, Revision 3, dated September 20, 2006, to do borescope inspections, and cleaning of the oil vent tubes and bearing chamber. Alternative Methods of Compliance (m) The Manager, Engine Certification Office, has the authority to approve alternative methods of compliance for this AD if requested using the procedures found in 14 CFR 39.19. Material Incorporated by Reference (n) You must use Rolls-Royce plc Alert Service Bulletin No. RB.211–72–AE302, Revision 3, dated September 20, 2006, to perform the inspections and cleaning required by this AD. The Director of the Federal Register approved the incorporation by reference of this service bulletin in accordance with 5 U.S.C. 552(a) and 1 CFR part 51. Contact Rolls-Royce plc, PO Box 31, Derby, England; telephone: 011–44–1332– 249428; fax: 011–44–1332–249223, for a copy of this service information. You may review copies at the National Archives and Records Administration (NARA). For information on the availability of this material at NARA, call 202–741–6030, or go to: https:// www.archives.gov/federal-register/cfr/ibrlocations.html. Related Information (o) European Aviation Safety Agency airworthiness directive No. 2006–0355, dated December 4, 2006, also addresses the subject of this AD. (p) Contact Christopher Spinney, Aerospace Engineer, Engine Certification Office, FAA, Engine & Propeller Directorate, 12 New England Executive Park, Burlington, MA 01803; telephone (781) 238–7175; fax (781) 238–7199, for more information about this AD. Issued in Burlington, Massachusetts, on January 12, 2007. Francis A. Favara, Manager, Engine and Propeller Directorate, Aircraft Certification Service. [FR Doc. E7–684 Filed 1–19–07; 8:45 am] BILLING CODE 4910–13–P DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION Federal Aviation Administration 14 CFR Part 39 [Docket No. FAA–2006–26236 Directorate Identifier 2006–CE–66–AD; Amendment 39– 14891; AD 2007–02–04] sroberts on PROD1PC70 with RULES RIN 2120–AA64 Airworthiness Directives; SOCATAGroupe Aerospatiale TB 20 and TB 21 Airplanes Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), Department of Transportation (DOT). AGENCY: VerDate Aug<31>2005 15:59 Jan 19, 2007 Jkt 211001 ACTION: Final rule. SUMMARY: We are adopting a new airworthiness directive (AD) for the products listed above. This AD results from mandatory continuing airworthiness information (MCAI) issued by an aviation authority of another country to identify and correct an unsafe condition on an aviation product. The MCAI describes the unsafe condition as reports of interference between the wing spar lower boom and the wheel fairing attaching screw. We are issuing this AD to require actions to correct the unsafe condition on these products. This AD becomes effective February 26, 2007. The Director of the Federal Register approved the incorporation by reference of certain publications listed in this AD as of February 26, 2007. ADDRESSES: You may examine the AD docket on the Internet at https:// dms.dot.gov or in person at the Docket Management Facility, U.S. Department of Transportation, 400 Seventh Street, SW., Nassif Building, Room PL–401, Washington, DC. FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Doug Rudolph, Aerospace Engineer, FAA, Small Airplane Directorate, 901 Locust, Room 301, Kansas City, Missouri 64106; telephone: (816) 329– 4059; fax: (816) 329–4090. SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: DATES: Streamlined Issuance of AD The FAA is implementing a new process for streamlining the issuance of ADs related to MCAI. The streamlined process will allow us to adopt MCAI safety requirements in a more efficient manner and will reduce safety risks to the public. This process continues to follow all FAA AD issuance processes to meet legal, economic, Administrative Procedure Act, and Federal Register requirements. We also continue to meet our technical decision-making responsibilities to identify and correct unsafe conditions on U.S.-certificated products. This AD references the MCAI and related service information that we considered in forming the engineering basis to correct the unsafe condition. The AD contains text copied from the MCAI and for this reason might not follow our plain language principles. Discussion We issued a notice of proposed rulemaking (NPRM) to amend 14 CFR part 39 to include an AD that would apply to the specified products. That NPRM was published in the Federal PO 00000 Frm 00010 Fmt 4700 Sfmt 4700 Register on November 22, 2006 (71 FR 67506). That NPRM proposed to correct an unsafe condition for the specified products. The MCAI states that there are reports of interference between the wing spar lower boom and the wheel fairing attaching screw causing an unsafe condition. The interference could, if left uncorrected, reduce the fatigue life of the wing spar with potentially catastrophic results. Comments We gave the public the opportunity to participate in developing this AD. We have considered the comment received. Comment Issue: Cost of Compliance EADS SOCATA states: Application of SB10–148–57 does not require specific part. So, the cost is negligible. EADS SOCATA estimates that it would take 1 work-hour to inspect and displace the screw. If repair is necessary, the cost depends on the damage. Our cost estimate included both the inspection and screw displacement costs as well as repair costs. We developed the repair cost estimate based on the information provided and assumed the worst case scenario if a repair was required. Since EADS SOCATA did not provide an estimate (work-hours or parts cost) if a repair is required and the FAA is required to provide this estimate to the public, we are keeping the language the same as the NPRM to account for worst case repair situations. Conclusion We reviewed the available data, including the comment received, and determined that air safety and the public interest require adopting the AD as proposed. Differences Between This AD and the MCAI or Service Information We have reviewed the MCAI and related service information and, in general, agree with their substance. But we might have found it necessary to use different words from those in the MCAI to ensure the AD is clear for U.S. operators and is enforceable. In making these changes, we do not intend to differ substantively from the information provided in the MCAI and related service information. We might also have required different actions in this AD from those in the MCAI in order to follow FAA policies. Any such differences are described in a separate paragraph of the AD, and take precedence over the actions copied from the MCAI. E:\FR\FM\22JAR1.SGM 22JAR1

Agencies

[Federal Register Volume 72, Number 13 (Monday, January 22, 2007)]
[Rules and Regulations]
[Pages 2603-2606]
From the Federal Register Online via the Government Printing Office [www.gpo.gov]
[FR Doc No: E7-684]


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DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION

Federal Aviation Administration

14 CFR Part 39

[Docket No. FAA-2005-19559; Directorate Identifier 2004-NE-03-AD; 
Amendment 39-14892; AD 2007-02-05]
RIN 2120-AA64


Airworthiness Directives; Rolls-Royce plc RB211 Trent 700 Series 
Turbofan Engines

AGENCY: Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), Department of 
Transportation (DOT).

ACTION: Final rule; request for comments.

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

SUMMARY: The FAA is superseding an existing airworthiness directive 
(AD) for Rolls-Royce plc (RR) RB211 Trent 700 series turbofan engines. 
That AD currently requires initial and repetitive borescope inspections 
of the high pressure-and-intermediate pressure (HP-IP) turbine internal 
and external oil vent tubes for coking and carbon buildup, and cleaning 
or replacing the vent tubes if necessary. This AD requires the same 
actions but uses more stringent tube

[[Page 2604]]

replacement criteria than the previous AD. This AD results from a 
recent incident where an RB211 Trent 700 series turbofan engine had an 
oil vent tube rupture as a result of blockage, leading to significant 
loss of engine oil. The incident indicates that further measures are 
necessary to control carbon buildup in the oil vent tubes. We are 
issuing this AD to prevent internal oil fires due to coking and carbon 
buildup, that could cause uncontained engine failure and damage to the 
airplane.

DATES: Effective February 6, 2007. The Director of the Federal Register 
approved the incorporation by reference of certain publications listed 
in the regulations as of February 6, 2007.
    We must receive any comments on this AD by March 23, 2007.

ADDRESSES: Use one of the following addresses to comment on this 
proposed AD.
     DOT Docket Web site: Go to https://dms.dot.gov and follow 
the instructions for sending your comments electronically.
     Government-wide rulemaking Web site: Go to https://
www.regulations.gov and follow the instructions for sending your 
comments electronically.
     Mail: Docket Management Facility; U.S. Department of 
Transportation, 400 Seventh Street, SW., Nassif Building, Room PL-401, 
Washington, DC 20590-0001.
     Fax: (202) 493-2251.
     Hand Delivery: Room PL-401 on the plaza level of the 
Nassif Building, 400 Seventh Street, SW., Washington, DC, between 9 
a.m. and 5 p.m., Monday through Friday, except Federal holidays.
    Contact Rolls-Royce plc, PO Box 31, Derby, England; telephone: 011-
44-1332-249428; fax: 011-44-1332-249223, for the service information 
identified in this AD.

FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Christopher Spinney, Aerospace 
Engineer, Engine Certification Office, FAA, Engine and Propeller 
Directorate, 12 New England Executive Park, Burlington, MA 01803-5299; 
telephone (781) 238-7175; fax (781) 238-7199.

SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: On November 1, 2004, we issued AD 2004-23-
03, Amendment 39-13858 (69 FR 64653, November 8, 2004). That AD 
requires initial and repetitive borescope inspections of the HP-IP 
turbine internal and external oil vent tubes for coking and carbon 
buildup, and cleaning or replacing the vent tubes if necessary. That AD 
was the result of a report of an RB211 Trent 700 series engine 
experiencing a disk shaft separation, overspeed of the IP turbine 
rotor, and multiple blade release of IP turbine blades. The findings 
suggested these events resulted from an internal oil fire in the HP-IP 
turbine oil vent tubes due to coking and carbon buildup. This fire led 
to a second fire in the internal air cavity below the IP turbine disk 
drive shaft. That condition, if not corrected, could result in 
uncontained engine failure and damage to the airplane.

Actions Since AD 2004-23-03 Was Issued

    Since AD 2004-23-03 was issued, the European Aviation Safety Agency 
(EASA), which is the airworthiness authority for the European Union, 
notified us that an unsafe condition may exist on RB211 Trent 700 
series turbofan engines. EASA advises that recently an oil vent tube 
ruptured as a result of blockage, leading to significant loss of engine 
oil, on an RB211 Trent 700 series turbofan engine. This incident 
indicates that further measures are necessary to control carbon buildup 
in the oil vent tubes.

Relevant Service Information

    We have reviewed and approved the technical contents of RR Alert 
Service Bulletin (ASB) No. RB.211-72-AE302, Revision 3, dated September 
20, 2006. That ASB describes procedures for borescope inspections, 
cleaning, and replacement if necessary of the internal and external oil 
vent tubes. For internal oil vent tubes to pass inspection, they must 
allow cleaning tool, number HU80298 to pass through them. AD 2004-23-03 
was less stringent in that it allowed tubes that an 8 mm or 6 mm 
diameter borescope could pass through, back into service. EASA 
classified this ASB as mandatory and issued AD 2006-0355, dated 
December 4, 2006, in order to ensure the airworthiness of these RB211 
Trent 700 series turbofan engines in Europe.

Bilateral Airworthiness Agreement

    These engine models are manufactured in the United Kingdom and are 
type certificated for operation in the United States under the 
provisions of section 21.29 of the Federal Aviation Regulations (14 CFR 
21.29) and the applicable bilateral airworthiness agreement. Under this 
bilateral airworthiness agreement, EASA kept the FAA informed of the 
situation described above. We have examined the findings of EASA, 
reviewed all available information, and determined that AD action is 
necessary for products of this type design that are certificated for 
operation in the United States.

FAA's Determination and Requirements of This AD

    Although no airplanes that are registered in the United States use 
these RB211 Trent 700 series turbofan engines, the possibility exists 
that the engines could be used on airplanes that are registered in the 
United States in the future. The unsafe condition described previously 
is likely to exist or develop on other RB211 Trent 700 series turbofan 
engines of the same type design. This AD requires initial and 
repetitive borescope inspections of the HP-IP turbine internal and 
external oil vent tubes for coking and carbon buildup, and cleaning or 
replacing the vent tubes if necessary. We are issuing this AD to 
prevent internal oil fires due to coking and carbon buildup, that could 
cause uncontained engine failure and damage to the airplane. You must 
use the service information described previously to perform the actions 
required by this AD.

FAA's Determination of the Effective Date

    Since there are currently no domestic operators of this engine 
model, notice and opportunity for public comment before issuing this AD 
are unnecessary. Therefore, a situation exists that allows the 
immediate adoption of this regulation.

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 us any written relevant data, 
views, or arguments regarding this AD. Send your comments to an address 
listed under ADDRESSES. Include ``AD Docket No. FAA-2005-19559; 
Directorate Identifier 2004-NE-03-AD'' in the subject line of your 
comments. We specifically invite comments on the overall regulatory, 
economic, environmental, and energy aspects of the rule that might 
suggest a need to modify it.
    We will post all comments we receive, without change, to https://
dms.dot.gov, including any personal information you provide. We will 
also post a report summarizing each substantive verbal contact with FAA 
personnel concerning this AD. Using the search function of the DMS Web 
site, anyone can find and read the comments in any of our dockets, 
including the name of the individual who sent the comment (or signed 
the comment on behalf of an association, business, labor union, etc.). 
You may review the DOT's complete Privacy Act Statement in the

[[Page 2605]]

Federal Register published on April 11, 2000 (65 FR 19477-78) or you 
may visit https://dms.dot.gov.

Examining the AD Docket

    You may examine the docket that contains the AD, any comments 
received, and any final disposition in person at the Docket Management 
Facility Docket Office between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m., Monday through 
Friday, except Federal holidays. The Docket Office (telephone (800) 
647-5227) is located on the plaza level of the Department of 
Transportation Nassif Building at the street address stated in 
ADDRESSES. Comments will be available in the AD docket shortly after 
the DMS receives them.

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.

Regulatory Findings

    We have determined that 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 the 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); and
    3. 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.
    We prepared a summary of the costs to comply with this AD and 
placed it in the AD Docket. You may get a copy of this summary by 
sending a request to us at the address listed under ADDRESSES.

List of Subjects in 14 CFR Part 39

    Air transportation, Aircraft, Aviation safety, Incorporation by 
reference, Safety.

Adoption of the Amendment

0
Under the authority delegated to me by the Administrator, the Federal 
Aviation Administration amends part 39 of the Federal Aviation 
Regulations (14 CFR part 39) as follows:

PART 39--AIRWORTHINESS DIRECTIVES

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]

    2. The FAA amends Sec.  39.13 by removing Amendment 39-13858 (69 FR 
64653, November 8, 2004), and by adding a new airworthiness directive, 
Amendment 39-14892, to read as follows:

2007-02-05 Rolls-Royce plc: Amendment 39-14892. Docket No. FAA-2005-
19559; Directorate Identifier 2004-NE-03-AD.

Effective Date

    (a) This airworthiness directive (AD) becomes effective February 
6, 2007.

Affected ADs

    (b) This AD supersedes AD 2004-23-03.

Applicability

    (c) This AD applies to Rolls-Royce plc (RR) RB211 Trent 768-60, 
RB211 Trent 772-60, and RB211 Trent 772B-60 series turbofan engines. 
These engines are installed on, but not limited to, Airbus A330-243, 
-341, -342 and -343 series airplanes.

Unsafe Condition

    (d) This AD results from a recent incident where an RB211 Trent 
700 series turbofan engine had an oil vent tube rupture as a result 
of blockage, leading to significant loss of engine oil. The incident 
indicates that further measures are necessary to control carbon 
buildup in the oil vent tubes. We are issuing this AD to prevent 
internal oil fires due to coking and carbon buildup, that could 
cause uncontained engine failure and damage to the airplane.

Compliance

    (e) You are responsible for having the actions required by this 
AD performed within the compliance times specified unless the 
actions have already been done.

Initial Inspections, Cleaning, and Replacements

    (f) Using the schedule in Table 1 of this AD, borescope-inspect 
and clean as necessary, the high pressure-and-intermediate pressure 
(HP-IP) turbine internal oil vent tubes, external oil vent tubes, 
and bearing chamber.

                  Table 1.--Initial Inspection Schedule
------------------------------------------------------------------------
    If the engine or the 05 Module:          Then initially inspect:
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Has reached 10,000 hours time-since-new  Within 3 months after the
 (TSN) or reached 2,500 cycles-since-     effective date of this AD.
 new (CSN) on the effective date of
 this AD.
Has fewer than 10,000 hours TSN or       Within 3 months after reaching
 fewer than 2,500 CSN on the effective    10,000 hours TSN or 2,500 CSN,
 date of this AD.                         whichever occurs first.
Is returned for a shop visit...........  Before returning to service.
------------------------------------------------------------------------

    (g) If after cleaning, there is still carbon in the vent tube 
that prevents cleaning tool, number HU80298, from passing through 
the tube, then replace the internal oil vent tube within 10 cycles-
in-service (CIS).
    (h) If after cleaning, there is still carbon of visible 
thickness in either of the two external oil vent tubes, then replace 
the external oil vent tube before further flight.

Repetitive Inspections, Cleaning, and Replacements

    (i) Within 6,400 hours time-in-service since last inspection and 
cleaning, or within 1,600 cycles-since-last inspection and cleaning, 
or at the next engine shop visit, whichever occurs first, borescope-
inspect the HP-IP turbine internal and external oil vent tubes and 
bearing chamber, and clean the oil vent tubes as necessary.
    (j) If after cleaning there is still carbon in the internal oil 
vent tube that prevents cleaning tool, number HU80298, from passing 
through the tube, then replace the internal oil vent tube within 10 
CIS.
    (k) If after cleaning there is still carbon of visible 
thickness, in either of the two external oil vent tubes, then 
replace the external oil vent tube before further flight.

[[Page 2606]]

Inspection and Cleaning Procedures

    (l) Use paragraphs 3.A. through 3.A.(4)(b) of the Accomplishment 
Instructions of Rolls-Royce plc Alert Service Bulletin No. RB.211-
72-AE302, Revision 3, dated September 20, 2006, to do borescope 
inspections, and cleaning of the oil vent tubes and bearing chamber.

Alternative Methods of Compliance

    (m) The Manager, Engine Certification Office, has the authority 
to approve alternative methods of compliance for this AD if 
requested using the procedures found in 14 CFR 39.19.

Material Incorporated by Reference

    (n) You must use Rolls-Royce plc Alert Service Bulletin No. 
RB.211-72-AE302, Revision 3, dated September 20, 2006, to perform 
the inspections and cleaning required by this AD. The Director of 
the Federal Register approved the incorporation by reference of this 
service bulletin in accordance with 5 U.S.C. 552(a) and 1 CFR part 
51. Contact Rolls-Royce plc, PO Box 31, Derby, England; telephone: 
011-44-1332-249428; fax: 011-44-1332-249223, for a copy of this 
service information. You may review copies at the National Archives 
and Records Administration (NARA). For information on the 
availability of this material at NARA, call 202-741-6030, or go to: 
https://www.archives.gov/federal-register/cfr/ibr-locations.html.

Related Information

    (o) European Aviation Safety Agency airworthiness directive No. 
2006-0355, dated December 4, 2006, also addresses the subject of 
this AD.
    (p) Contact Christopher Spinney, Aerospace Engineer, Engine 
Certification Office, FAA, Engine & Propeller Directorate, 12 New 
England Executive Park, Burlington, MA 01803; telephone (781) 238-
7175; fax (781) 238-7199, for more information about this AD.

    Issued in Burlington, Massachusetts, on January 12, 2007.
Francis A. Favara,
Manager, Engine and Propeller Directorate, Aircraft Certification 
Service.
[FR Doc. E7-684 Filed 1-19-07; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE 4910-13-P

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