Airworthiness Directives; Rolls-Royce plc (RR) RB211-Trent 800 Series Turbofan Engines, 68663-68665 [2011-28678]

Download as PDF Federal Register / Vol. 76, No. 215 / Monday, November 7, 2011 / Proposed Rules § 39.13 [Amended] 2. The FAA amends § 39.13 by removing airworthiness directive (AD) 2010–03–06, Amendment 39–16189 (75 FR 5689, February 4, 2010), and adding the following new AD: Turbomeca S.A.: Docket No. FAA–2009– 0889; Directorate Identifier 2009–NE– 35–AD. (a) Comments Due Date The FAA must receive comments on this AD action by January 6, 2012. (b) Affected ADs This AD supersedes AD 2010–03–06, Amendment 39–16189 (75 FR 5689, February 4, 2010). (c) Applicability This AD applies to all Turbomeca S.A. Arriel 2B and 2B1 turboshaft engines. srobinson on DSK4SPTVN1PROD with PROPOSALS (d) Unsafe Condition This AD was prompted by three additional cases of uncoupling of the high-pressure/lowpressure (HP/LP) pump hydro-mechanical metering unit (HMU) LP fuel pump impeller and the HP fuel pump shaft, since AD 2010– 03–06 (75 FR 5689, February 4, 2010) was issued. However, these failures were in HMUs that were modified to post-TU 147 configuration HMUs. The investigation indicates that these HMUs may also need to be replaced. We are issuing this AD to prevent reduced engine power or, at worst, an uncommanded in-flight shutdown, which can result in a forced autorotation landing or accident. (e) Compliance Comply with this AD within the compliance times specified, unless already done. (1) Check the transmissible torque between the LP fuel pump impeller and the HP fuel pump shaft as follows: (i) For HMUs that do not incorporate Modification TU 147, check the torque before accumulating 500 engine flight hours (EFH) since March 11, 2010 (the effective date of AD 2010–03–06 (75 FR 5689, February 4, 2010)). Use Paragraph 2 of Turbomeca Alert Mandatory Service Bulletin (MSB) No. A292 73 2830, Version B, dated July 10, 2009, to do the check. (ii) For HMUs that incorporate Modification TU 147 and which Modification TU 147 was applied on or before March 31, 2010, and the HMUs are not listed in Figures 2 or 3 of Turbomeca Alert MSB No. A292 73 2836, Version A, dated August 17, 2010, check the torque within 750 EFH from the effective date of this AD, but no later than 14 months after the effective date of this AD. Use Paragraph 2 of Turbomeca Alert MSB No. A292 73 2836, Version A, dated August 17, 2010, to do the check. (2) If the HMU does not pass the torque check, then replace the HMU with an HMU that is eligible for installation. (f) HMU Reinstallation Do not install any HMU removed from service by this AD until it has been checked in accordance with Paragraph 2 of VerDate Mar<15>2010 17:46 Nov 04, 2011 Jkt 226001 Turbomeca Alert MSB No. A292 73 2836, Version A, dated August 17, 2010, or checked in accordance with Paragraph 2 of Turbomeca Alert MSB No. A292 73 2830, Version B, dated July 10, 2009, and found eligible for installation. (g) Alternative Methods of Compliance (AMOCs) 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. (h) Related Information (1) For more information about this AD, contact James Rosa, Aerospace Engineer, Engine Certification Office, FAA, Engine & Propeller Directorate, 12 New England Executive Park, Burlington, MA 01803; phone: (781) 238–7152; fax: (781) 238–7199; email: james.rosa@faa.gov. (2) For service information identified in this AD, contact Turbomeca S.A., 40220 Tarnos, France; phone: 33–05–59–74–40–00, fax: 33–05–59–74–45–15. You may review copies of the referenced service information at the FAA, Engine & Propeller Directorate, 12 New England Executive Park, Burlington, MA 01803. For information on the availability of this material at the FAA, call (781) 238–7125. Issued in Burlington, Massachusetts, on October 28, 2011. Peter A. White, Manager, Engine & Propeller Directorate, Aircraft Certification Service. [FR Doc. 2011–28677 Filed 11–4–11; 8:45 am] BILLING CODE 4910–13–P DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION Federal Aviation Administration 14 CFR Part 39 [Docket No. FAA–2010–0755; Directorate Identifier 2010–NE–12–AD] RIN 2120–AA64 Airworthiness Directives; Rolls-Royce plc (RR) RB211–Trent 800 Series Turbofan Engines Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), DOT. ACTION: Supplemental notice of proposed rulemaking (NPRM); reopening of comment period. AGENCY: We are revising an earlier proposed airworthiness directive (AD) for RR RB211–Trent 800 series turbofan engines. That NPRM proposed to revise the Trent 800 Time Limits Manual (TLM) of the Trent 800 engine maintenance manuals (EMMs). That NPRM was prompted by RR reducing the life limits of certain critical engine parts. This action revises that NPRM by proposing to supersede an existing AD to prohibit installation of one certain SUMMARY: PO 00000 Frm 00004 Fmt 4702 Sfmt 4702 68663 critical part and to increase the life of another critical part whose lives were previously reduced by that existing AD. We are proposing this supplemental NPRM to prevent the failure of critical rotating parts, which could result in uncontained failure of the engine and damage to the airplane. Because of the extensive changes since the NPRM was issued, we are reopening the comment period to allow the public the chance to comment on these proposed changes. DATES: We must receive comments on this proposed AD by January 6, 2012. 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 https://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 AD, contact Rolls-Royce plc, Corporate Communications, P.O. Box 31, Derby, England, DE248BJ; phone: 011–44–1332–242424; fax: 011–44– 1332–245418 or email from https:// www.rolls-royce.com/contact/ civil_team.jsp, or download the publication from https://www. aeromanager.com. You may review copies of the referenced service information at the FAA, Engine & Propeller Directorate, 12 New England Executive Park, Burlington, MA. For information on the availability of this material at the FAA, call (781)–238– 7125. Examining the AD Docket You may examine the AD docket on the Internet at https://www.regulations. gov; or in person at the Docket Management Facility between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m., Monday through Friday, except Federal holidays. The AD docket contains this proposed AD, the regulatory evaluation, any comments received, and other information. The street address for the Docket Office (phone: (800) 647–5527) is in the ADDRESSES section. Comments will be available in the AD docket shortly after receipt. FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Alan Strom, Aerospace Engineer, Engine E:\FR\FM\07NOP1.SGM 07NOP1 68664 Federal Register / Vol. 76, No. 215 / Monday, November 7, 2011 / Proposed Rules Certification Office, FAA, Engine & Propeller Directorate, 12 New England Executive Park, Burlington, MA 01803; phone: (781) 238–7143; fax: (781) 238– 7199; email: alan.strom@faa.gov. SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: 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–2010–0755; Directorate Identifier 2010–NE–12–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 we receive about this proposed AD. srobinson on DSK4SPTVN1PROD with PROPOSALS Discussion We issued an NPRM to amend 14 CFR part 39 to include an AD that would apply to RR RB211–Trent 800 series turbofan engines. That NPRM published in the Federal Register on August 3, 2010 (75 FR 45560). That NPRM would have revised the TLM of the RB211– Trent 800 EMMs. That NPRM was prompted by RR reducing the life limits of certain critical engine parts. Revision of the critical part lives has been necessary due to actual operational flight profiles not conforming to those assumed at entry into service and is associated with a revised Flight Profile Monitoring methodology introduced by RR. The methodology was originally based on engine thrust rating but is now based on operating shaft speeds. Actions Since Previous NPRM Was Issued Since we issued the previous NPRM (75 FR 45560, August 3, 2010), RR requested that we supersede existing AD 2003–16–18, Amendment 39–13271 (68 FR 49344, August 18, 2003). That AD currently requires a life limit for intermediate-pressure (IP) turbine rotor disc, part number (P/N) FK21117, that is lower than the life limit proposed by this supplemental NPRM. Rolls-Royce plc substantiated their proposed increased life of P/N FK21117 by rig test and analysis. AD 2003–16–18 (68 FR 49344, August 18, 2003) also reduced the life limit for IP turbine rotor discs, P/N FK33083, and VerDate Mar<15>2010 17:46 Nov 04, 2011 Jkt 226001 all P/N FK33083 IP turbine rotor discs are no longer in service. RR has accordingly reduced the life for P/N FK33083 discs to zero, effectively removing them as a disc approved for installation in any engine. By revising the previous NPRM (75 FR 45560, August 3, 2010) to supersede AD 2003– 16–18, as discussed previously, this proposed AD would make these changes to the life of RR IP turbine rotor disc, P/N FK21117, and RR IP turbine rotor disc, P/N FK33083, mandatory. We have also determined that it is unnecessary to incorporate by reference the TLM of the Trent 800 engine EMMs. We can address the unsafe condition identified in this supplemental NPRM by mandating the reduced lives of the affected parts. Comments We gave the public the opportunity to comment on the previous NPRM (75 FR 45560, August 3, 2010). We have considered the comments received. Request To Change Compliance Paragraph (e)(1) American Airlines and Delta Airlines asked us to change paragraph (e)(1) in the proposed AD from ‘‘(1) Revise the airworthiness limitations section (ALS) * * * Time Limits manual (TLM) dated June 15, 2009’’ to ‘‘(1) Revise the airworthiness limitations section (ALS) * * * Time Limits manual (TLM) dated no earlier than June 15, 2009.’’ The commenters do not want to be forced to use a TLM dated earlier than the one currently in force. We partially agree. We agree that a more efficient method of revising the life exists, so we changed this proposed AD to specify the revised part lives in Table 1 in the Compliance section of this proposed AD. We do not agree to the requested wording as it leaves compliance with the AD open to future revisions that do not currently exist. We did not change the proposed AD further as a result of this comment. Request To Supersede the Existing AD 2003–16–18 (68 FR 49344, August 18, 2003) Rolls-Royce plc asked us to change paragraph (b) of the proposed AD from ‘‘None’’ to ‘‘AD 2003–16–18 is superseded by the current AD.’’ We agree. We changed paragraph (b) of this proposed AD to state that ‘‘This AD supersedes AD 2003–16–18, Amendment 39–13271 (68 FR 49344, August 18, 2003)’’. Relevant Service Information Rolls-Royce plc has issued Alert Service Bulletin No. RB.211–72–AE935, Revision 7, dated January 19, 2009. The actions described in this service information are intended to correct the unsafe condition identified in this supplemental NPRM. FAA’s Determination We are proposing this supplemental NPRM because we evaluated all the relevant information and determined the unsafe condition described previously is likely to exist or develop in other products of the same type design. Certain changes described above expand the scope of the previous NPRM (75 FR 45560, August 3, 2010). As a result, we have determined that it is necessary to reopen the comment period to provide additional opportunity for the public to comment on this supplemental NPRM. Proposed Requirements of the Supplemental NPRM This supplemental NPRM would reduce the life limits of certain critical engine parts and would supersede AD 2003–16–18, Amendment 39–13271 (68 FR 49344, August 18, 2003). Costs of Compliance Request To Withdraw the NPRM Delta Airlines asked us to withdraw the NPRM (75 FR 45560, August 3, 2010). Delta Airlines believed the NPRM is redundant because the current TLM already requires using the proposed tasks and life limits. We do not agree. Although the new life limits are included in the current TLM, the new life limits are reinforced when mandated by an AD. We changed this proposed AD to specify the revised part lives in Table 1 in the Compliance section of this proposed AD. Based on the service information, we estimate that this proposed AD would affect about 16 RB211–Trent 800 series turbofan engines of U.S. registry. The average labor rate is $85 per work-hour, but no labor cost is associated with this proposed AD because discs are replaced at scheduled maintenance intervals. Prorated cost of parts would cost about $45,000 per engine. Based on these figures, we estimate the cost of the proposed AD on U.S. operators to be $720,000. Authority for This Rulemaking PO 00000 Frm 00005 Fmt 4702 Sfmt 4702 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 E:\FR\FM\07NOP1.SGM 07NOP1 Federal Register / Vol. 76, No. 215 / Monday, November 7, 2011 / Proposed Rules 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. (2) Is not a ‘‘significant rule’’ under the DOT Regulatory Policies and Procedures (44 FR 11034, February 26, 1979); (3) Will not affect intrastate aviation in Alaska or; (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. Regulatory Findings Accordingly, under the authority delegated to me by the Administrator, the FAA proposes to amend 14 CFR part 39 as follows: We determined that this proposed AD would not have federalism implications under Executive Order 13132. This proposed AD would not have a substantial direct effect on the States, on the relationship between the national Government and the States, or on the distribution of power and responsibilities among the various levels of government. For the reasons discussed above, I certify this proposed regulation: (1) Is not a ‘‘significant regulatory action’’ under Executive Order 12866; List of Subjects in 14 CFR Part 39 Air transportation, Aircraft, Aviation safety, Incorporation by reference, Safety. The Proposed Amendment 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 airworthiness directive (AD) 2003–16–18, Amendment 39–13271 (68 68665 FR 49344, August 18, 2003), and adding the following new AD: Rolls-Royce plc: Docket No. FAA–2010– 0755; Directorate Identifier 2010–NE– 12–AD. (a) Comments Due Date We must receive comments by January 6, 2012. (b) Affected ADs This AD supersedes AD 2003–16–18, Amendment 39–13271 (68 FR 49344, August 18, 2003). (c) Applicability This AD applies to Rolls-Royce plc (RR) RB211–Trent 895–17, 892–17, 892B–17, 884– 17, 884B–17, 877–17, and 875–17 turbofan engines. (d) Unsafe Condition This AD was prompted by RR reporting changes to the lives of certain life limited rotating parts. We are issuing this AD to prevent the failure of critical rotating parts, which could result in uncontained failure of the engine and damage to the airplane. (e) Actions and Compliance Compliance is required within 30 days after the effective date of this AD, unless already done. (1) After the effective date of this AD, remove from service the parts listed in Table 1 of this AD before exceeding the new life limit indicated: TABLE 1—REDUCED PART LIVES Part nomenclature Part number (P/N) (i) Intermediate-pressure (IP) Compressor Rotor Shaft ............................................ (ii) IP Compressor Rotor Shaft .................................................................................. (iii) High-pressure (HP) Compressor Stage 1 to 4 Rotor Discs Shaft ...................... (iv) HP Compressor Stage 1 to 4 Rotor Discs Shaft ................................................ (v) HP Compressor Stage 1 to 4 Rotor Discs Shaft ................................................. (vi) HP Compressor Stage 1 to 4 Rotor Discs Shaft ................................................ (vii) HP Compressor Stage 1 to 4 Rotor Discs Shaft ............................................... (viii) HP Compressor Stage 5 and 6 Discs and Cone .............................................. (ix) HP Compressor Stage 5 and 6 Discs and Cone ................................................ (x) IP Turbine Rotor Disc ........................................................................................... (xi) IP Turbine Rotor Disc .......................................................................................... (f) Installation Prohibition After the effective date of this AD, do not install any IP turbine rotor discs, P/N FK33083, into any engine. srobinson on DSK4SPTVN1PROD with PROPOSALS (g) Alternative Methods of Compliance (AMOCs) The Manager, Engine Certification Office, FAA, may approve AMOCs to this AD. Use the procedures found in 14 CFR 39.19 to make your request. (h) Related Information (1) You may find additional information on calculating Standard Duty Cycles and or using HEAVY Profile Cycles, in RR TLM 05– 00–01–800–801, Recording and Control of the Lives of Parts. VerDate Mar<15>2010 17:46 Nov 04, 2011 Jkt 226001 FK24100 FK24496 FK24009 FK26167 FK32580 FW11590 FW61622 FK25230 FK27899 FK21117 FK33083 (2) For more information about this AD, contact Alan Strom, Aerospace Engineer, Engine Certification Office, FAA, Engine and Propeller Directorate, 12 New England Executive Park, Burlington, MA 01803; phone: (781) 238–7143; fax: (781) 238–7199; email:alan.strom@faa.gov. (3) Refer to European Aviation Safety Agency Airworthiness Directive 2007– 0003R1, dated January 15, 2009, and RR Alert Service Bulletin No. RB.211–72–AE935, Revision 7, dated January 19, 2009, for related information. PO 00000 Frm 00006 Fmt 4702 Sfmt 9990 Life in standard duty cycles 8,140 8,860 4,560 6,340 8,550 8,550 8,550 5,000 5,000 11,610 0 Life in cycles using the HEAVY profile 8,140 8,180 4,460 6,000 6,850 6,850 6,850 5,000 5,000 10,400 0 Issued in Burlington, Massachusetts, on October 31, 2011. Peter A. White, Manager, Engine and Propeller Directorate, Aircraft Certification Service. [FR Doc. 2011–28678 Filed 11–4–11; 8:45 am] BILLING CODE 4910–13–P E:\FR\FM\07NOP1.SGM 07NOP1

Agencies

[Federal Register Volume 76, Number 215 (Monday, November 7, 2011)]
[Proposed Rules]
[Pages 68663-68665]
From the Federal Register Online via the Government Printing Office [www.gpo.gov]
[FR Doc No: 2011-28678]


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DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION

Federal Aviation Administration

14 CFR Part 39

[Docket No. FAA-2010-0755; Directorate Identifier 2010-NE-12-AD]
RIN 2120-AA64


Airworthiness Directives; Rolls-Royce plc (RR) RB211-Trent 800 
Series Turbofan Engines

AGENCY: Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), DOT.

ACTION: Supplemental notice of proposed rulemaking (NPRM); reopening of 
comment period.

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

SUMMARY: We are revising an earlier proposed airworthiness directive 
(AD) for RR RB211-Trent 800 series turbofan engines. That NPRM proposed 
to revise the Trent 800 Time Limits Manual (TLM) of the Trent 800 
engine maintenance manuals (EMMs). That NPRM was prompted by RR 
reducing the life limits of certain critical engine parts. This action 
revises that NPRM by proposing to supersede an existing AD to prohibit 
installation of one certain critical part and to increase the life of 
another critical part whose lives were previously reduced by that 
existing AD. We are proposing this supplemental NPRM to prevent the 
failure of critical rotating parts, which could result in uncontained 
failure of the engine and damage to the airplane. Because of the 
extensive changes since the NPRM was issued, we are reopening the 
comment period to allow the public the chance to comment on these 
proposed changes.

DATES: We must receive comments on this proposed AD by January 6, 2012.

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 https://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 AD, contact Rolls-Royce 
plc, Corporate Communications, P.O. Box 31, Derby, England, DE248BJ; 
phone: 011-44-1332-242424; fax: 011-44-1332-245418 or email from https://www.rolls-royce.com/contact/civil_team.jsp, or download the 
publication from https://www.aeromanager.com. You may review copies of 
the referenced service information at the FAA, Engine & Propeller 
Directorate, 12 New England Executive Park, Burlington, MA. For 
information on the availability of this material at the FAA, call 
(781)-238-7125.

Examining the AD Docket

    You may examine the AD docket on the Internet at https://www.regulations.gov; or in person at the Docket Management Facility 
between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m., Monday through Friday, except Federal 
holidays. The AD docket contains this proposed AD, the regulatory 
evaluation, any comments received, and other information. The street 
address for the Docket Office (phone: (800) 647-5527) is in the 
ADDRESSES section. Comments will be available in the AD docket shortly 
after receipt.

FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Alan Strom, Aerospace Engineer, Engine

[[Page 68664]]

Certification Office, FAA, Engine & Propeller Directorate, 12 New 
England Executive Park, Burlington, MA 01803; phone: (781) 238-7143; 
fax: (781) 238-7199; email: alan.strom@faa.gov.

SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: 

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-2010-0755; 
Directorate Identifier 2010-NE-12-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 we 
receive about this proposed AD.

Discussion

    We issued an NPRM to amend 14 CFR part 39 to include an AD that 
would apply to RR RB211-Trent 800 series turbofan engines. That NPRM 
published in the Federal Register on August 3, 2010 (75 FR 45560). That 
NPRM would have revised the TLM of the RB211-Trent 800 EMMs. That NPRM 
was prompted by RR reducing the life limits of certain critical engine 
parts. Revision of the critical part lives has been necessary due to 
actual operational flight profiles not conforming to those assumed at 
entry into service and is associated with a revised Flight Profile 
Monitoring methodology introduced by RR. The methodology was originally 
based on engine thrust rating but is now based on operating shaft 
speeds.

Actions Since Previous NPRM Was Issued

    Since we issued the previous NPRM (75 FR 45560, August 3, 2010), RR 
requested that we supersede existing AD 2003-16-18, Amendment 39-13271 
(68 FR 49344, August 18, 2003). That AD currently requires a life limit 
for intermediate-pressure (IP) turbine rotor disc, part number (P/N) 
FK21117, that is lower than the life limit proposed by this 
supplemental NPRM. Rolls-Royce plc substantiated their proposed 
increased life of P/N FK21117 by rig test and analysis.
    AD 2003-16-18 (68 FR 49344, August 18, 2003) also reduced the life 
limit for IP turbine rotor discs, P/N FK33083, and all P/N FK33083 IP 
turbine rotor discs are no longer in service. RR has accordingly 
reduced the life for P/N FK33083 discs to zero, effectively removing 
them as a disc approved for installation in any engine. By revising the 
previous NPRM (75 FR 45560, August 3, 2010) to supersede AD 2003-16-18, 
as discussed previously, this proposed AD would make these changes to 
the life of RR IP turbine rotor disc, P/N FK21117, and RR IP turbine 
rotor disc, P/N FK33083, mandatory. We have also determined that it is 
unnecessary to incorporate by reference the TLM of the Trent 800 engine 
EMMs. We can address the unsafe condition identified in this 
supplemental NPRM by mandating the reduced lives of the affected parts.

Comments

    We gave the public the opportunity to comment on the previous NPRM 
(75 FR 45560, August 3, 2010). We have considered the comments 
received.

Request To Change Compliance Paragraph (e)(1)

    American Airlines and Delta Airlines asked us to change paragraph 
(e)(1) in the proposed AD from ``(1) Revise the airworthiness 
limitations section (ALS) * * * Time Limits manual (TLM) dated June 15, 
2009'' to ``(1) Revise the airworthiness limitations section (ALS) * * 
* Time Limits manual (TLM) dated no earlier than June 15, 2009.'' The 
commenters do not want to be forced to use a TLM dated earlier than the 
one currently in force.
    We partially agree. We agree that a more efficient method of 
revising the life exists, so we changed this proposed AD to specify the 
revised part lives in Table 1 in the Compliance section of this 
proposed AD. We do not agree to the requested wording as it leaves 
compliance with the AD open to future revisions that do not currently 
exist. We did not change the proposed AD further as a result of this 
comment.

Request To Withdraw the NPRM

    Delta Airlines asked us to withdraw the NPRM (75 FR 45560, August 
3, 2010). Delta Airlines believed the NPRM is redundant because the 
current TLM already requires using the proposed tasks and life limits.
    We do not agree. Although the new life limits are included in the 
current TLM, the new life limits are reinforced when mandated by an AD. 
We changed this proposed AD to specify the revised part lives in Table 
1 in the Compliance section of this proposed AD.

Request To Supersede the Existing AD 2003-16-18 (68 FR 49344, August 
18, 2003)

    Rolls-Royce plc asked us to change paragraph (b) of the proposed AD 
from ``None'' to ``AD 2003-16-18 is superseded by the current AD.''
    We agree. We changed paragraph (b) of this proposed AD to state 
that ``This AD supersedes AD 2003-16-18, Amendment 39-13271 (68 FR 
49344, August 18, 2003)''.

Relevant Service Information

    Rolls-Royce plc has issued Alert Service Bulletin No. RB.211-72-
AE935, Revision 7, dated January 19, 2009. The actions described in 
this service information are intended to correct the unsafe condition 
identified in this supplemental NPRM.

FAA's Determination

    We are proposing this supplemental NPRM because we evaluated all 
the relevant information and determined the unsafe condition described 
previously is likely to exist or develop in other products of the same 
type design. Certain changes described above expand the scope of the 
previous NPRM (75 FR 45560, August 3, 2010). As a result, we have 
determined that it is necessary to reopen the comment period to provide 
additional opportunity for the public to comment on this supplemental 
NPRM.

Proposed Requirements of the Supplemental NPRM

    This supplemental NPRM would reduce the life limits of certain 
critical engine parts and would supersede AD 2003-16-18, Amendment 39-
13271 (68 FR 49344, August 18, 2003).

Costs of Compliance

    Based on the service information, we estimate that this proposed AD 
would affect about 16 RB211-Trent 800 series turbofan engines of U.S. 
registry. The average labor rate is $85 per work-hour, but no labor 
cost is associated with this proposed AD because discs are replaced at 
scheduled maintenance intervals. Prorated cost of parts would cost 
about $45,000 per engine. Based on these figures, we estimate the cost 
of the proposed AD on U.S. operators to be $720,000.

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

[[Page 68665]]

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 responsibilities among the various levels of government.
    For the reasons discussed above, I certify this proposed 
regulation:
    (1) Is not a ``significant regulatory action'' under Executive 
Order 12866;
    (2) Is not a ``significant rule'' under the DOT Regulatory Policies 
and Procedures (44 FR 11034, February 26, 1979);
    (3) Will not affect intrastate aviation in Alaska or;
    (4) Will not have a significant economic impact, positive or 
negative, on a substantial number of small entities under the criteria 
of the Regulatory Flexibility Act.

List of Subjects in 14 CFR Part 39

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

The Proposed Amendment

    Accordingly, under the authority delegated to me by the 
Administrator, the FAA proposes to amend 14 CFR part 39 as follows:

PART 39--AIRWORTHINESS DIRECTIVES

    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 airworthiness directive 
(AD) 2003-16-18, Amendment 39-13271 (68 FR 49344, August 18, 2003), and 
adding the following new AD:

Rolls-Royce plc: Docket No. FAA-2010-0755; Directorate Identifier 
2010-NE-12-AD.

(a) Comments Due Date

    We must receive comments by January 6, 2012.

(b) Affected ADs

    This AD supersedes AD 2003-16-18, Amendment 39-13271 (68 FR 
49344, August 18, 2003).

(c) Applicability

    This AD applies to Rolls-Royce plc (RR) RB211-Trent 895-17, 892-
17, 892B-17, 884-17, 884B-17, 877-17, and 875-17 turbofan engines.

(d) Unsafe Condition

    This AD was prompted by RR reporting changes to the lives of 
certain life limited rotating parts. We are issuing this AD to 
prevent the failure of critical rotating parts, which could result 
in uncontained failure of the engine and damage to the airplane.

(e) Actions and Compliance

    Compliance is required within 30 days after the effective date 
of this AD, unless already done.
    (1) After the effective date of this AD, remove from service the 
parts listed in Table 1 of this AD before exceeding the new life 
limit indicated:

                                           Table 1--Reduced Part Lives
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                                                 Life in cycles
                   Part nomenclature                     Part number (P/N)   Life in standard   using the HEAVY
                                                                               duty cycles          profile
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
(i) Intermediate-pressure (IP) Compressor Rotor Shaft..            FK24100              8,140              8,140
(ii) IP Compressor Rotor Shaft.........................            FK24496              8,860              8,180
(iii) High-pressure (HP) Compressor Stage 1 to 4 Rotor             FK24009              4,560              4,460
 Discs Shaft...........................................
(iv) HP Compressor Stage 1 to 4 Rotor Discs Shaft......            FK26167              6,340              6,000
(v) HP Compressor Stage 1 to 4 Rotor Discs Shaft.......            FK32580              8,550              6,850
(vi) HP Compressor Stage 1 to 4 Rotor Discs Shaft......            FW11590              8,550              6,850
(vii) HP Compressor Stage 1 to 4 Rotor Discs Shaft.....            FW61622              8,550              6,850
(viii) HP Compressor Stage 5 and 6 Discs and Cone......            FK25230              5,000              5,000
(ix) HP Compressor Stage 5 and 6 Discs and Cone........            FK27899              5,000              5,000
(x) IP Turbine Rotor Disc..............................            FK21117             11,610             10,400
(xi) IP Turbine Rotor Disc.............................            FK33083                  0                  0
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

(f) Installation Prohibition

    After the effective date of this AD, do not install any IP 
turbine rotor discs, P/N FK33083, into any engine.

(g) Alternative Methods of Compliance (AMOCs)

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

(h) Related Information

    (1) You may find additional information on calculating Standard 
Duty Cycles and or using HEAVY Profile Cycles, in RR TLM 05-00-01-
800-801, Recording and Control of the Lives of Parts.
    (2) For more information about this AD, contact Alan Strom, 
Aerospace Engineer, Engine Certification Office, FAA, Engine and 
Propeller Directorate, 12 New England Executive Park, Burlington, MA 
01803; phone: (781) 238-7143; fax: (781) 238-7199; 
email:alan.strom@faa.gov.
    (3) Refer to European Aviation Safety Agency Airworthiness 
Directive 2007-0003R1, dated January 15, 2009, and RR Alert Service 
Bulletin No. RB.211-72-AE935, Revision 7, dated January 19, 2009, 
for related information.

    Issued in Burlington, Massachusetts, on October 31, 2011.
Peter A. White,
Manager, Engine and Propeller Directorate, Aircraft Certification 
Service.
[FR Doc. 2011-28678 Filed 11-4-11; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE 4910-13-P
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