Airworthiness Directives; Rolls-Royce plc RB211-Trent 500, 700, and 800 Series Turbofan Engines, 801-803 [E9-31394]
Download as PDF
mstockstill on DSKH9S0YB1PROD with PROPOSALS
Federal Register / Vol. 75, No. 3 / Wednesday, January 6, 2010 / Proposed Rules
these replacement times, the following
items must be considered:
(A) Damage identified in the threat
assessment required by paragraph
(d)(1)(iv) of this section;
(B) Maximum acceptable
manufacturing defects and in-service
damage (i.e., those that do not lower the
residual strength below ultimate design
loads and those that can be repaired to
restore ultimate strength); and
(C) Ultimate load strength capability
after applying repeated loads.
(ii) Inspection intervals for PSEs must
be established to reveal any damage
identified in the threat assessment
required by paragraph (d)(1)(iv) of this
section that may occur from fatigue or
other in-service causes before such
damage has grown to the extent that the
component cannot sustain the required
residual strength capability. In
establishing these inspection intervals,
the following items must be considered:
(A) The growth rate, including nogrowth, of the damage under the
repeated loads expected in-service
determined by tests or analysis
supported by tests;
(B) The required residual strength for
the assumed damage established after
considering the damage type, inspection
interval, detectability of damage, and
the techniques adopted for damage
detection. The minimum required
residual strength is limit load; and
(C) Whether the inspection will detect
the damage growth before the minimum
residual strength is reached and restored
to ultimate load capability, or whether
the component will require
replacement.
(3) Each applicant must consider the
effects of damage on stiffness, dynamic
behavior, loads, and functional
performance on all PSEs in establishing
the allowable damage size and
inspection interval.
(e) Fatigue Evaluation: If an applicant
establishes that the damage tolerance
evaluation described in paragraph (d) of
this section is impractical within the
limits of geometry, inspectability, or
good design practice, the applicant must
do a fatigue evaluation of the particular
composite rotorcraft structure and:
(1) Identify all PSEs considered in the
fatigue evaluation;
(2) Identify the types of damage for all
PSEs considered in the fatigue
evaluation;
(3) Establish supplemental procedures
to minimize the risk of catastrophic
failure associated with the damages
identified in paragraph (e) of this
section; and
(4) Include these supplemental
procedures in the Airworthiness
Limitations section of the Instructions
VerDate Nov<24>2008
20:33 Jan 05, 2010
Jkt 220001
for Continued Airworthiness required
by § 29.1529.
Appendix A to Part 29 [Amended]
6. Amend the second sentence of section
A.29.4 of Appendix A to Part 29 by removing
the phrase ‘‘approved under § 29.571’’ and
adding the phrase ‘‘required for type
certification’’ in its place.
Issued in Washington, DC, on December
18, 2009.
K.C. Yanamura,
Acting Director, Aircraft Certification Service.
[FR Doc. E9–31381 Filed 1–5–10; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE 4910–13–P
DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION
Federal Aviation Administration
14 CFR Part 39
[Docket No. FAA–2009–0674; Directorate
Identifier 2009–NE–25–AD]
RIN 2120–AA64
Airworthiness Directives; Rolls-Royce
plc RB211–Trent 500, 700, and 800
Series Turbofan Engines
AGENCY: Federal Aviation
Administration (FAA), DOT.
ACTION: Notice of proposed rulemaking
(NPRM).
SUMMARY: The FAA proposes to
supersede an existing airworthiness
directive (AD) for Rolls-Royce plc
RB211–Trent 800 series turbofan
engines. That AD currently requires
replacing the fuel-to-oil heat exchanger
(FOHE). This proposed AD would
require replacing the FOHE on the
RB211–Trent 500 and RB211–Trent 700
series turbofan engines in addition to
the RB211–Trent 800 series turbofan
engines. This proposed 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, and results from
the risk of engine FOHE blockage. The
MCAI describes the unsafe condition as:
In January 2008, a Boeing 777 powered by
RB211–Trent 800 engines crashed short of
the runway as a result of dual loss of engine
response during the final stages of approach.
The investigation of the incident has
established that, under certain ambient
conditions, ice can accumulate on the walls
of the fuel pipes within the aircraft fuel
system, which can then be released
downstream when fuel flow demand is
increased. This released ice can then collect
on the FOHE front face and limit fuel flow
through the FOHE. This type of icing event
was previously unknown and creates ice
concentrations into the fuel system beyond
PO 00000
Frm 00009
Fmt 4702
Sfmt 4702
801
those specified in the certification
requirements.
In May 2009, an Engine Indicating and
Crew Alerting System (EICAS) surge message
was set following a successful go-around
maneuver on a single RB211–Trent 700
engine of an A330 aircraft. Subsequent
analysis concluded the likely cause to be
temporary ice accumulation causing fuel
flow restriction in the FOHE. The incident
has indicated the potential susceptibility to
ice blockage for Airbus aircraft in
combination with Rolls-Royce engines that
feature similar fuel systems to the RB211–
Trent 800.
We are proposing this AD to prevent
ice from blocking the FOHE, which
could result in an unacceptable engine
power loss and loss of control of the
airplane.
DATES: We must receive comments on
this proposed AD by February 5, 2010.
ADDRESSES: You may send comments by
any of the following methods:
• Federal eRulemaking Portal: Go to
https://www.regulations.gov and follow
the instructions for sending your
comments electronically.
• Mail: Docket Management Facility,
U.S. Department of Transportation, 1200
New Jersey Avenue, SE., West Building
Ground Floor, Room W12–140,
Washington, DC 20590–0001.
• Hand Delivery: Deliver to Mail
address above between 9 a.m. and 5
p.m., Monday through Friday, except
Federal holidays.
• Fax: (202) 493–2251.
Contact Rolls-Royce plc, P.O. Box 31,
DERBY, DE24 8BJ, UK; telephone 44 (0)
1332 242424; fax 44 (0) 1332 249936, for
the service information identified in this
proposed AD.
Examining the AD Docket
You may examine the AD docket on
the Internet at https://
www.regulations.gov; or in person at the
Docket Operations office between 9 a.m.
and 5 p.m., Monday through Friday,
except Federal holidays. The AD docket
contains this proposed AD, the
regulatory evaluation, any comments
received, and other information. The
street address for the Docket Operations
office (telephone (800) 647–5527) is the
same as the Mail address provided in
the ADDRESSES section. Comments will
be available in the AD docket shortly
after receipt.
FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT:
James Lawrence, Aerospace Engineer,
Engine Certification Office, FAA, Engine
and Propeller Directorate, 12 New
England Executive Park, Burlington, MA
01803; e-mail: james.lawrence@faa.gov;
telephone (781) 238–7176; fax (781)
238–7199.
SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION:
E:\FR\FM\06JAP1.SGM
06JAP1
802
Federal Register / Vol. 75, No. 3 / Wednesday, January 6, 2010 / Proposed Rules
Comments Invited
We invite you to send any written
relevant data, views, or arguments about
this proposed AD. Send your comments
to an address listed under the
ADDRESSES section. Include ‘‘Docket No.
FAA–2009–0674; Directorate Identifier
2009–NE–25–AD’’ at the beginning of
your comments. We specifically invite
comments on the overall regulatory,
economic, environmental, and energy
aspects of this proposed AD. We will
consider all comments received by the
closing date and may amend this
proposed AD based on those comments.
We will post all comments we
receive, without change, to https://
www.regulations.gov, including any
personal information you provide. We
will also post a report summarizing each
substantive verbal contact with FAA
personnel concerning this proposed AD.
Using the search function of the Web
site, anyone can find and read the
comments in any of our dockets,
including, if provided, 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 Federal
Register published on April 11, 2000
(65 FR 19477–78).
mstockstill on DSKH9S0YB1PROD with PROPOSALS
Discussion
The European Aviation Safety Agency
(EASA), which is the Technical Agent
for the Member States of the European
Community, has issued AD 2009–0142,
dated July 13, 2009 to correct an unsafe
condition on RB211–Trent 800 series
turbofan engines. We issued AD 2009–
24–05 (74 FR 62222, November 27,
2009) to correspond with that EASA
AD. Since we issued that AD, EASA
issued AD 2009–0257, dated December
3, 2009, to correct the same unsafe
condition on RB211–Trent 500 and
RB211–Trent 700 series turbofan
engines. That EASA AD states:
In January 2008, a Boeing 777 powered by
RB211–Trent 800 engines crashed short of
the runway as a result of dual loss of engine
response during the final stages of approach.
The investigation of the incident has
established that, under certain ambient
conditions, ice can accumulate on the walls
of the fuel pipes within the aircraft fuel
system, which can then be released
downstream when fuel flow demand is
increased. This released ice can then collect
on the FOHE front face and limit fuel flow
through the FOHE. This type of icing event
was previously unknown and creates ice
concentrations into the fuel system beyond
those specified in the certification
requirements.
In May 2009, an EICAS surge message was
set following a successful go-around
maneuver on a single Trent 700 engine of an
VerDate Nov<24>2008
20:33 Jan 05, 2010
Jkt 220001
A330 aircraft. Subsequent analysis concluded
the likely cause to be temporary ice
accumulation causing fuel flow restriction in
the FOHE. The incident has indicated the
potential susceptibility to ice blockage for
Airbus aircraft in combination with RollsRoyce engines that feature similar fuel
systems to the RB211–Trent 800.
To mitigate the risk of engine FOHE
blockage, this proposed AD would
require, for RB211–Trent 500, 700, and
800 series turbofan engines, replacing
the existing FOHE with a FOHE
incorporating the modifications
specified in the applicable Rolls-Royce
plc Alert Service Bulletin.
You may obtain further information
by examining the MCAI in the AD
docket.
Relevant Service Information
Rolls-Royce plc has issued Alert
Service Bulletin (ASB) No. RB.211–79–
AG346, dated October 23, 2009 for
RB211–Trent 500 series turbofan
engines, ASB No. RB.211–79–AG338,
Revision 1, dated December 2, 2009 for
RB211–Trent 700 series turbofan
engines, and ASB No. RB.211–79–
AG257, Revision 1, dated September 14,
2009 for RB211–Trent 800 series
turbofan engines. The actions described
in this service information are intended
to correct the unsafe condition
identified in the MCAI.
FAA’s Determination and Requirements
of This Proposed AD
These products have been approved
by the aviation authority of the United
Kingdom, and are approved for
operation in the United States. Pursuant
to our bilateral agreement with the
United Kingdom, they have notified us
of the unsafe condition described in the
MCAI and service information
referenced above. We are proposing this
AD because we evaluated all
information provided by EASA, and
determined the unsafe condition exists
and is likely to exist or develop on other
products of the same type design. This
proposed AD would require replacing
the existing FOHE on RB211–Trent 500
and RB211–Trent 700 series turbofan
engines within 6,000 flight hours after
the effective date of this AD, or before
January 1, 2011, whichever occurs first,
and on RB211–Trent 800 series turbofan
engines, replacing the existing FOHE
within 6,000 flight hours after January 4,
2010 (the effective date of FAA AD
2009–24–05), or before January 1, 2011,
whichever occurs first.
Differences Between This AD and the
MCAI or Service Information
The EASA AD 2009–0142, dated July
13, 2009, and EASA AD 2009–0257,
PO 00000
Frm 00010
Fmt 4702
Sfmt 4702
dated December 3, 2009, require
replacing the FOHE within 6,000 flight
hours from July 10, 2009 or before
January 1, 2011, whichever occurs first.
This proposed AD would require
replacing the FOHE on RB211–Trent
500 and RB211–Trent 700 series
turbofan engines within 6,000 flight
hours after the effective date of this AD,
or before January 1, 2011, whichever
occurs first, and on RB211–Trent 800
series turbofan engines, replacing the
FOHE within 6,000 flight hours after
January 4, 2010 (the effective date of AD
2009–24–05), or before January 1, 2011,
whichever occurs first.
Costs of Compliance
Based on the service information, we
estimate that this proposed AD will
affect about 138 RB211–Trent 800 series
engines, and about 10 RB211–Trent 700
series engines, installed on airplanes of
U.S. registry. There are currently no
RB211–Trent 500 series engines
installed on airplanes of U.S. registry.
We also estimate that it will take about
8.5 work-hours per product to comply
with this AD. The average labor rate is
$80 per work-hour. Required parts will
cost about $58,005 per product. Based
on these figures, we estimate the cost of
the AD on U.S. operators to be
$8,685,380.
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 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
E:\FR\FM\06JAP1.SGM
06JAP1
Federal Register / Vol. 75, No. 3 / Wednesday, January 6, 2010 / Proposed Rules
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); 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 regulatory evaluation
of the estimated costs to comply with
this proposed AD and placed it in the
AD docket.
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
1. The authority citation for part 39
continues to read as follows:
Authority: 49 U.S.C. 106(g), 40113, 44701.
§ 39.13
[Amended]
2. The FAA amends § 39.13 by
removing Amendment 39–16092 (74 FR
62222, November 27, 2009) and by
adding the following new AD:
Rolls-Royce plc: Docket No. FAA–2009–
0674; Directorate Identifier 2009–NE–
25–AD.
Comments Due Date
(a) We must receive comments by February
5, 2010.
mstockstill on DSKH9S0YB1PROD with PROPOSALS
Affected Airworthiness Directives (ADs)
(b) This AD supersedes AD 2009–24–05,
Amendment 39–16092.
Applicability
(c) This AD applies to:
(1) Rolls-Royce plc models RB211–Trent
553–61, 556–61, 556B–61, 560–61, 553A2–
61, 556A2–61, 556B2–61, and 560A2–61
turbofan engines with fuel-to-oil heat
exchangers (FOHEs) part number (P/N)
55027001–1 or 55027001–11 installed; and
(2) Rolls-Royce plc models RB211–Trent
768–60, 772–60, 772B–60, and RB211–Trent
875–17, 877–17, 884–17, 884B–17, 892–17,
892B–17, and 895–17 turbofan engines with
FOHEs P/N 55003001–1 or 55003001–11
installed.
(3) The RB211–Trent 500 series engines are
installed on, but not limited to, Airbus A340–
500 and –600 series airplanes. The RB211–
Trent 700 series engines are installed on, but
VerDate Nov<24>2008
20:33 Jan 05, 2010
Jkt 220001
not limited to, Airbus A330–200 and –300
series airplanes. The RB211–Trent 800 series
engines are installed on, but not limited to,
Boeing 777 series airplanes.
Reason
(d) 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, and results
from the risk of engine FOHE blockage. We
are issuing this AD to prevent ice from
blocking the FOHE, which could result in an
unacceptable engine power loss and loss of
control of the airplane.
Actions and Compliance
(e) For RB211–Trent 500 series turbofan
engines and RB211–Trent 700 series turbofan
engines, unless already done, within 6,000
flight hours after the effective date of this AD,
or before January 1, 2011, whichever occurs
first, do the following:
(1) For RB211–Trent 500 series turbofan
engines, replace the FOHE P/N 55027001–1
or 55027001–11, with an FOHE that
incorporates the modifications specified in
Rolls-Royce plc Alert Service Bulletin (ASB)
No. RB.211–79–AG346, dated October 23,
2009.
(2) For RB211–Trent 700 series turbofan
engines, replace the FOHE, P/N 55003001–1
or 55003001–11, with an FOHE that
incorporates the modifications specified in
Rolls-Royce plc ASB No. RB.211–79–AG338,
Revision 1, dated December 2, 2009.
(f) For RB211–Trent 800 series turbofan
engines, unless already done, replace the
FOHE, P/N 55003001–1 or 55003001–11,
with an FOHE that incorporates the
modifications specified in Rolls-Royce plc
ASB No. RB.211–79–AG257, Revision 1,
dated September 14, 2009 within 6,000 flight
hours from January 4, 2010 (the effective date
of FAA AD 2009–24–05), or before January 1,
2011, whichever comes first.
(g) This AD differs from the Mandatory
Continuing Airworthiness Information
(MCAI) by requiring replacing the FOHE
within 6,000 flight hours after the effective
date of this AD for RB211–Trent 500 and
RB211–Trent 700 series turbofan engines or
January 4, 2010 for RB211–Trent 800 series
turbofan engines, rather than within 6,000
flight hours from July 10, 2009.
Previous Credit
(h) For RB211–Trent 700 series engines,
replacement of the FOHE with an FOHE that
incorporates the modifications specified in
Rolls-Royce plc ASB No. RB.211–79–AG338,
dated September 29, 2009, complies with the
replacement requirement specified in
paragraph (e)(2) of this AD.
(i) For RB211–Trent 800 series engines,
replacement of the FOHE with an FOHE that
incorporates the modifications specified in
Rolls Royce plc ASB No. RB.211–79–AG257,
dated June 24, 2009, complies with the
replacement requirement specified in
paragraph (f) of this AD.
Frm 00011
Fmt 4702
Alternative Methods of Compliance
(AMOCs)
(j) The Manager, Engine Certification
Office, FAA, has the authority to approve
AMOCs for this AD, if requested using the
procedures found in 14 CFR 39.19.
Related Information
(k) Refer to MCAI AD 2009–0142, dated
July 13, 2009, MCAI AD 2009–0257, dated
December 3, 2009, for related information.
Contact Rolls-Royce plc, P.O. Box 31,
DERBY, DE24 8BJ, UK; telephone 44 (0) 1332
242424; fax 44 (0) 1332 249936, for a copy
of the service information referenced in this
AD.
(l) Contact James Lawrence, Aerospace
Engineer, Engine Certification Office, FAA,
Engine and Propeller Directorate, 12 New
England Executive Park, Burlington, MA
01803; e-mail: james.lawrence@faa.gov;
telephone (781) 238–7176; fax (781) 238–
7199, for more information about this AD.
Issued in Burlington, Massachusetts, on
December 31, 2009.
Peter A. White,
Assistant Manager, Engine and Propeller
Directorate, Aircraft Certification Service.
[FR Doc. E9–31394 Filed 1–5–10; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE 4910–13–P
DEPARTMENT OF HOMELAND
SECURITY
Coast Guard
33 CFR Part 147
[Docket No. USCG–2009–0955]
RIN 1625–AA00
Safety Zone; FRONTIER DISCOVERER,
Outer Continental Shelf Drillship,
Chukchi and Beaufort Sea, Alaska
Coast Guard, DHS.
Notice of proposed rulemaking.
AGENCY:
FAA AD Differences
PO 00000
803
Sfmt 4702
ACTION:
SUMMARY: The Coast Guard proposes a
temporary safety zone around the
DRILLSHIP FRONTIER DISCOVERER,
while anchored on location in order to
drill exploratory wells at various
prospects located in the Chukchi and
Beaufort Sea Outer Continental Shelf,
Alaska, from 12:01 a.m. on July 1, 2010
through 11:59 p.m. on October 31, 2010.
The purpose of the temporary safety
zone is to protect the DRILLSHIP from
vessels operating outside normal
shipping channels and fairways. Placing
a temporary safety zone around the
DRILLSHIP will significantly reduce the
threat of allisions, oil spills, and
releases of natural gas, and thereby
protect the safety of life, property, and
the environment.
DATES: Comments and related material
must be received by the Coast Guard on
or before February 5, 2010.
E:\FR\FM\06JAP1.SGM
06JAP1
Agencies
[Federal Register Volume 75, Number 3 (Wednesday, January 6, 2010)]
[Proposed Rules]
[Pages 801-803]
From the Federal Register Online via the Government Printing Office [www.gpo.gov]
[FR Doc No: E9-31394]
-----------------------------------------------------------------------
DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION
Federal Aviation Administration
14 CFR Part 39
[Docket No. FAA-2009-0674; Directorate Identifier 2009-NE-25-AD]
RIN 2120-AA64
Airworthiness Directives; Rolls-Royce plc RB211-Trent 500, 700,
and 800 Series Turbofan Engines
AGENCY: Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), DOT.
ACTION: Notice of proposed rulemaking (NPRM).
-----------------------------------------------------------------------
SUMMARY: The FAA proposes to supersede an existing airworthiness
directive (AD) for Rolls-Royce plc RB211-Trent 800 series turbofan
engines. That AD currently requires replacing the fuel-to-oil heat
exchanger (FOHE). This proposed AD would require replacing the FOHE on
the RB211-Trent 500 and RB211-Trent 700 series turbofan engines in
addition to the RB211-Trent 800 series turbofan engines. This proposed
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, and results from
the risk of engine FOHE blockage. The MCAI describes the unsafe
condition as:
In January 2008, a Boeing 777 powered by RB211-Trent 800 engines
crashed short of the runway as a result of dual loss of engine
response during the final stages of approach. The investigation of
the incident has established that, under certain ambient conditions,
ice can accumulate on the walls of the fuel pipes within the
aircraft fuel system, which can then be released downstream when
fuel flow demand is increased. This released ice can then collect on
the FOHE front face and limit fuel flow through the FOHE. This type
of icing event was previously unknown and creates ice concentrations
into the fuel system beyond those specified in the certification
requirements.
In May 2009, an Engine Indicating and Crew Alerting System
(EICAS) surge message was set following a successful go-around
maneuver on a single RB211-Trent 700 engine of an A330 aircraft.
Subsequent analysis concluded the likely cause to be temporary ice
accumulation causing fuel flow restriction in the FOHE. The incident
has indicated the potential susceptibility to ice blockage for
Airbus aircraft in combination with Rolls-Royce engines that feature
similar fuel systems to the RB211-Trent 800.
We are proposing this AD to prevent ice from blocking the FOHE,
which could result in an unacceptable engine power loss and loss of
control of the airplane.
DATES: We must receive comments on this proposed AD by February 5,
2010.
ADDRESSES: You may send comments by any of the following methods:
Federal eRulemaking Portal: Go to https://www.regulations.gov and follow the instructions for sending your
comments electronically.
Mail: Docket Management Facility, U.S. Department of
Transportation, 1200 New Jersey Avenue, SE., West Building Ground
Floor, Room W12-140, Washington, DC 20590-0001.
Hand Delivery: Deliver to Mail address above between 9
a.m. and 5 p.m., Monday through Friday, except Federal holidays.
Fax: (202) 493-2251.
Contact Rolls-Royce plc, P.O. Box 31, DERBY, DE24 8BJ, UK;
telephone 44 (0) 1332 242424; fax 44 (0) 1332 249936, for the service
information identified in this proposed AD.
Examining the AD Docket
You may examine the AD docket on the Internet at https://www.regulations.gov; or in person at the Docket Operations office
between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m., Monday through Friday, except Federal
holidays. The AD docket contains this proposed AD, the regulatory
evaluation, any comments received, and other information. The street
address for the Docket Operations office (telephone (800) 647-5527) is
the same as the Mail address provided in the ADDRESSES section.
Comments will be available in the AD docket shortly after receipt.
FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: James Lawrence, Aerospace Engineer,
Engine Certification Office, FAA, Engine and Propeller Directorate, 12
New England Executive Park, Burlington, MA 01803; e-mail:
james.lawrence@faa.gov; telephone (781) 238-7176; fax (781) 238-7199.
SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION:
[[Page 802]]
Comments Invited
We invite you to send any written relevant data, views, or
arguments about this proposed AD. Send your comments to an address
listed under the ADDRESSES section. Include ``Docket No. FAA-2009-0674;
Directorate Identifier 2009-NE-25-AD'' at the beginning of your
comments. We specifically invite comments on the overall regulatory,
economic, environmental, and energy aspects of this proposed AD. We
will consider all comments received by the closing date and may amend
this proposed AD based on those comments.
We will post all comments we receive, without change, to https://www.regulations.gov, including any personal information you provide. We
will also post a report summarizing each substantive verbal contact
with FAA personnel concerning this proposed AD. Using the search
function of the Web site, anyone can find and read the comments in any
of our dockets, including, if provided, 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 Federal Register published on April 11, 2000 (65
FR 19477-78).
Discussion
The European Aviation Safety Agency (EASA), which is the Technical
Agent for the Member States of the European Community, has issued AD
2009-0142, dated July 13, 2009 to correct an unsafe condition on RB211-
Trent 800 series turbofan engines. We issued AD 2009-24-05 (74 FR
62222, November 27, 2009) to correspond with that EASA AD. Since we
issued that AD, EASA issued AD 2009-0257, dated December 3, 2009, to
correct the same unsafe condition on RB211-Trent 500 and RB211-Trent
700 series turbofan engines. That EASA AD states:
In January 2008, a Boeing 777 powered by RB211-Trent 800 engines
crashed short of the runway as a result of dual loss of engine
response during the final stages of approach. The investigation of
the incident has established that, under certain ambient conditions,
ice can accumulate on the walls of the fuel pipes within the
aircraft fuel system, which can then be released downstream when
fuel flow demand is increased. This released ice can then collect on
the FOHE front face and limit fuel flow through the FOHE. This type
of icing event was previously unknown and creates ice concentrations
into the fuel system beyond those specified in the certification
requirements.
In May 2009, an EICAS surge message was set following a
successful go-around maneuver on a single Trent 700 engine of an
A330 aircraft. Subsequent analysis concluded the likely cause to be
temporary ice accumulation causing fuel flow restriction in the
FOHE. The incident has indicated the potential susceptibility to ice
blockage for Airbus aircraft in combination with Rolls-Royce engines
that feature similar fuel systems to the RB211-Trent 800.
To mitigate the risk of engine FOHE blockage, this proposed AD
would require, for RB211-Trent 500, 700, and 800 series turbofan
engines, replacing the existing FOHE with a FOHE incorporating the
modifications specified in the applicable Rolls-Royce plc Alert Service
Bulletin.
You may obtain further information by examining the MCAI in the AD
docket.
Relevant Service Information
Rolls-Royce plc has issued Alert Service Bulletin (ASB) No. RB.211-
79-AG346, dated October 23, 2009 for RB211-Trent 500 series turbofan
engines, ASB No. RB.211-79-AG338, Revision 1, dated December 2, 2009
for RB211-Trent 700 series turbofan engines, and ASB No. RB.211-79-
AG257, Revision 1, dated September 14, 2009 for RB211-Trent 800 series
turbofan engines. The actions described in this service information are
intended to correct the unsafe condition identified in the MCAI.
FAA's Determination and Requirements of This Proposed AD
These products have been approved by the aviation authority of the
United Kingdom, and are approved for operation in the United States.
Pursuant to our bilateral agreement with the United Kingdom, they have
notified us of the unsafe condition described in the MCAI and service
information referenced above. We are proposing this AD because we
evaluated all information provided by EASA, and determined the unsafe
condition exists and is likely to exist or develop on other products of
the same type design. This proposed AD would require replacing the
existing FOHE on RB211-Trent 500 and RB211-Trent 700 series turbofan
engines within 6,000 flight hours after the effective date of this AD,
or before January 1, 2011, whichever occurs first, and on RB211-Trent
800 series turbofan engines, replacing the existing FOHE within 6,000
flight hours after January 4, 2010 (the effective date of FAA AD 2009-
24-05), or before January 1, 2011, whichever occurs first.
Differences Between This AD and the MCAI or Service Information
The EASA AD 2009-0142, dated July 13, 2009, and EASA AD 2009-0257,
dated December 3, 2009, require replacing the FOHE within 6,000 flight
hours from July 10, 2009 or before January 1, 2011, whichever occurs
first. This proposed AD would require replacing the FOHE on RB211-Trent
500 and RB211-Trent 700 series turbofan engines within 6,000 flight
hours after the effective date of this AD, or before January 1, 2011,
whichever occurs first, and on RB211-Trent 800 series turbofan engines,
replacing the FOHE within 6,000 flight hours after January 4, 2010 (the
effective date of AD 2009-24-05), or before January 1, 2011, whichever
occurs first.
Costs of Compliance
Based on the service information, we estimate that this proposed AD
will affect about 138 RB211-Trent 800 series engines, and about 10
RB211-Trent 700 series engines, installed on airplanes of U.S.
registry. There are currently no RB211-Trent 500 series engines
installed on airplanes of U.S. registry. We also estimate that it will
take about 8.5 work-hours per product to comply with this AD. The
average labor rate is $80 per work-hour. Required parts will cost about
$58,005 per product. Based on these figures, we estimate the cost of
the AD on U.S. operators to be $8,685,380.
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 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
[[Page 803]]
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); 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 regulatory evaluation of the estimated costs to
comply with this proposed AD and placed it in the AD docket.
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
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 39-16092 (74 FR
62222, November 27, 2009) and by adding the following new AD:
Rolls-Royce plc: Docket No. FAA-2009-0674; Directorate Identifier
2009-NE-25-AD.
Comments Due Date
(a) We must receive comments by February 5, 2010.
Affected Airworthiness Directives (ADs)
(b) This AD supersedes AD 2009-24-05, Amendment 39-16092.
Applicability
(c) This AD applies to:
(1) Rolls-Royce plc models RB211-Trent 553-61, 556-61, 556B-61,
560-61, 553A2-61, 556A2-61, 556B2-61, and 560A2-61 turbofan engines
with fuel-to-oil heat exchangers (FOHEs) part number (P/N) 55027001-
1 or 55027001-11 installed; and
(2) Rolls-Royce plc models RB211-Trent 768-60, 772-60, 772B-60,
and RB211-Trent 875-17, 877-17, 884-17, 884B-17, 892-17, 892B-17,
and 895-17 turbofan engines with FOHEs P/N 55003001-1 or 55003001-11
installed.
(3) The RB211-Trent 500 series engines are installed on, but not
limited to, Airbus A340-500 and -600 series airplanes. The RB211-
Trent 700 series engines are installed on, but not limited to,
Airbus A330-200 and -300 series airplanes. The RB211-Trent 800
series engines are installed on, but not limited to, Boeing 777
series airplanes.
Reason
(d) 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, and results from the risk of engine FOHE blockage. We are
issuing this AD to prevent ice from blocking the FOHE, which could
result in an unacceptable engine power loss and loss of control of
the airplane.
Actions and Compliance
(e) For RB211-Trent 500 series turbofan engines and RB211-Trent
700 series turbofan engines, unless already done, within 6,000
flight hours after the effective date of this AD, or before January
1, 2011, whichever occurs first, do the following:
(1) For RB211-Trent 500 series turbofan engines, replace the
FOHE P/N 55027001-1 or 55027001-11, with an FOHE that incorporates
the modifications specified in Rolls-Royce plc Alert Service
Bulletin (ASB) No. RB.211-79-AG346, dated October 23, 2009.
(2) For RB211-Trent 700 series turbofan engines, replace the
FOHE, P/N 55003001-1 or 55003001-11, with an FOHE that incorporates
the modifications specified in Rolls-Royce plc ASB No. RB.211-79-
AG338, Revision 1, dated December 2, 2009.
(f) For RB211-Trent 800 series turbofan engines, unless already
done, replace the FOHE, P/N 55003001-1 or 55003001-11, with an FOHE
that incorporates the modifications specified in Rolls-Royce plc ASB
No. RB.211-79-AG257, Revision 1, dated September 14, 2009 within
6,000 flight hours from January 4, 2010 (the effective date of FAA
AD 2009-24-05), or before January 1, 2011, whichever comes first.
FAA AD Differences
(g) This AD differs from the Mandatory Continuing Airworthiness
Information (MCAI) by requiring replacing the FOHE within 6,000
flight hours after the effective date of this AD for RB211-Trent 500
and RB211-Trent 700 series turbofan engines or January 4, 2010 for
RB211-Trent 800 series turbofan engines, rather than within 6,000
flight hours from July 10, 2009.
Previous Credit
(h) For RB211-Trent 700 series engines, replacement of the FOHE
with an FOHE that incorporates the modifications specified in Rolls-
Royce plc ASB No. RB.211-79-AG338, dated September 29, 2009,
complies with the replacement requirement specified in paragraph
(e)(2) of this AD.
(i) For RB211-Trent 800 series engines, replacement of the FOHE
with an FOHE that incorporates the modifications specified in Rolls
Royce plc ASB No. RB.211-79-AG257, dated June 24, 2009, complies
with the replacement requirement specified in paragraph (f) of this
AD.
Alternative Methods of Compliance (AMOCs)
(j) The Manager, Engine Certification Office, FAA, has the
authority to approve AMOCs for this AD, if requested using the
procedures found in 14 CFR 39.19.
Related Information
(k) Refer to MCAI AD 2009-0142, dated July 13, 2009, MCAI AD
2009-0257, dated December 3, 2009, for related information. Contact
Rolls-Royce plc, P.O. Box 31, DERBY, DE24 8BJ, UK; telephone 44 (0)
1332 242424; fax 44 (0) 1332 249936, for a copy of the service
information referenced in this AD.
(l) Contact James Lawrence, Aerospace Engineer, Engine
Certification Office, FAA, Engine and Propeller Directorate, 12 New
England Executive Park, Burlington, MA 01803; e-mail:
james.lawrence@faa.gov; telephone (781) 238-7176; fax (781) 238-
7199, for more information about this AD.
Issued in Burlington, Massachusetts, on December 31, 2009.
Peter A. White,
Assistant Manager, Engine and Propeller Directorate, Aircraft
Certification Service.
[FR Doc. E9-31394 Filed 1-5-10; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE 4910-13-P