Airworthiness Directives; Rolls-Royce Corporation Turbofan Engines, 48339-48341 [2013-19162]

Download as PDF Federal Register / Vol. 78, No. 153 / Thursday, August 8, 2013 / Proposed Rules Reporting and recordkeeping requirements, Retirement. Elaine Kaplan, Acting Director. U.S. Office of Personnel Management. Accordingly, OPM is proposing to amend title 5, Code of Federal Regulations as follows: PART 890—FEDERAL EMPLOYEES HEALTH BENEFITS PROGRAM 1. The authority citation for part 890 is revised to read as follows: ■ Authority: 5 U.S.C. 8913; Sec. 890.301 also issued under sec. 311 of Pub. L. 111–03, 123 Stat. 64; Sec. 890.111 also issued under section 1622(b) of Pub. L. 104–106, 110 Stat. 521; Sec. 890.112 also issued under section 1 of Pub. L. 110–279, 122 Stat. 2604; 5 U.S.C. 8913; Sec. 890.803 also issued under 50 U.S.C. 403p, 22 U.S.C. 4069c and 4069c–1; subpart L also issued under sec. 599C of Pub. L. 101–513, 104 Stat. 2064, as amended; Sec. 890.102 also issued under sections 11202(f), 11232(e), 11246 (b) and (c) of Pub. L. 105– 33, 111 Stat. 251; and section 721 of Pub. L. 105–261, 112 Stat. 2061; Public Law 111– 148, as amended by Public Law 111–152. 2. Amend § 89 0.101 adding definitions for ‘‘congressional staff member’’ and ‘‘Member of Congress’’ to paragraph (a) to read as follows: ■ § 890.101 Definitions; time computations. (a) * * * Congressional staff member means an individual who is a full-time or parttime employee employed by the official office of a Member of Congress, whether in Washington, DC or outside of Washington, DC. * * * * * Member of Congress means a member of the Senate or of the House of Representatives, a Delegate to the House of Representatives, and the Resident Commissioner of Puerto Rico. * * * * * ■ 3. Amend § 890.102 by adding paragraphs (c)(9) and (10) and revising paragraph (e) to read as follows: § 890.102 Coverage. mstockstill on DSK4VPTVN1PROD with PROPOSALS * * * * * (c) * * * (9) The following employees are not eligible to purchase a health benefit plan for which OPM contracts or which OPM approves under this subsection, but may purchase health benefit plans, as defined in 5 U.S.C. 8901(6), that are offered by an Exchange, pursuant to § 1312(d)(3)(D) of the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act, Public Law 111–148, as amended by the Health Care and Education Reconciliation Act, Public Law 111–152 (the Affordable Care Act or the Act): VerDate Mar<15>2010 17:53 Aug 07, 2013 Jkt 229001 (i) A Member of Congress. (ii) A congressional staff member, if the individual works for a Member of Congress and is determined by the employing office of the Member of Congress to meet the definition of congressional staff member in § 890.101 of this part effective January 1, 2014, or in any subsequent calendar year. Designation as a congressional staff member shall be an annual designation made prior to October of each year for the following year. The designation shall be made for the duration of the year during which the staff member works for that Member of Congress beginning with the January 1st following the designation and continuing to December 31st of that year. * * * * * (e) With the exception of those employees or groups of employees listed in paragraph (e)(1) of this section, the Office of Personnel Management makes the final determination of the applicability of this section to specific employees or groups of employees. (1) Employees identified in paragraph (c)(9)(i) and (ii) of this section. (2) [Reserved] * * * * * ■ Amend § 890.201 by adding paragraph (d) to read as follows: § 890.201 benefits. Minimum standards for health * * * * * (d) Nothing in this part shall limit or prevent a health insurance plan purchased through an Exchange, pursuant to section 1312(d)(3)(D) of the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act, Public Law 111–148, as amended by the Health Care and Education Reconciliation Act, Public Law 111–152 (the Affordable Care Act or the Act), by an employee otherwise covered by 5 U.S.C. 8901(1)(B) and (C) from being considered a ‘‘health benefit plan under this chapter’’ for purposes of 5 U.S.C. 8905(b) and 5 U.S.C. 8906. ■ 4. Amend § 890.303 by revising paragraph (b) to read as follows: § 890.303 Continuation of enrollment. * * * * * (b) Change of enrolled employees to certain excluded positions. Employees and annuitants enrolled under this part who move, without a break in service or after a separation of 3 days or less, to an employment in which they are excluded by § 890.102(c), continue to be enrolled unless excluded by § 890.102(c)(4), (5), (6), (7), or (9). * * * * * ■ 5. Amend § 890.304 by revising paragraph (a)(1)(iii) to read as follows. PO 00000 Frm 00003 Fmt 4702 Sfmt 4702 § 890.304 48339 Termination of enrollment. (a) * * * (1) * * * (iii) The last day of the pay period in which his employment status or the eligibility of his position changes so that he is excluded from enrollment. * * * * * ■ 6. Amend § 890.501 by adding paragraph (h) to read as follows: § 890.501 Government contributions. * * * * * (h)(1) The Government contribution for an employee who enrolls in a health benefit plan offered through an Exchange, pursuant to section 1312(d)(3)(D) of the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act, Public Law 111–148, as amended by the Health Care and Education Reconciliation Act, Public Law 111–152 (the Affordable Care Act or the Act), or an annuitant whose enrollment in a health benefit plan offered through such an Exchange continues, pursuant to 5 U.S.C. 8905(b), shall be calculated in the same manner as for other employees and annuitants. (2) Government contributions and employee withholdings for employees who enroll in a health benefit plan offered through an Exchange, pursuant to section 1312(d)(3)(D) of the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act, Public Law 111–148, as amended by the Health Care and Education Reconciliation Act, Public Law 111–152 (the Affordable Care Act or the Act), or annuitants whose enrollment in a health benefit plan offered through such an Exchange continues, pursuant to 5 U.S.C. 8905(b), shall be accounted for pursuant to 5 U.S.C. 8909 and such monies shall only be available for payment of premiums, and costs in accordance with 5 U.S.C. 8909(a)(2). [FR Doc. 2013–19222 Filed 8–7–13; 8:45 am] BILLING CODE 6325–63–P DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION Federal Aviation Administration 14 CFR Part 39 [Docket No. FAA–2009–0811; Directorate Identifier 2008–NE–41–AD] RIN 2120–AA64 Airworthiness Directives; Rolls-Royce Corporation Turbofan Engines Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), DOT. ACTION: Notice of proposed rulemaking (NPRM). AGENCY: We propose to supersede an existing airworthiness directive (AD) SUMMARY: E:\FR\FM\08AUP1.SGM 08AUP1 48340 Federal Register / Vol. 78, No. 153 / Thursday, August 8, 2013 / Proposed Rules that applies to certain Rolls-Royce Corporation (RRC) AE 3007A series turbofan engines. The existing AD currently requires removing certain high-pressure turbine (HPT) stage 2 wheels, or performing inspections on them, and reduces their approved life limits. This proposed AD would clarify the AE 3007A turbofan engine model applicability, would further reduce the approved life limits of affected HPT stage 2 wheels, and would eliminate the inspections required by the existing AD. We are proposing this AD to prevent uncontained failure of the HPT stage 2 wheel, damage to the engine, and damage to the airplane. DATES: We must receive comments on this proposed AD by October 7, 2013. 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: Deliver to Mail address above between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m., Monday through Friday, except Federal holidays. For service information identified in this proposed AD, contact Rolls-Royce Corporation, 450 South Meridian Street, Mail Code NB–01–06, Indianapolis, IN 46225, phone: 317–230–1667; email: CMSEindyOSD@rolls-royce.com; Internet: www.rolls-royce.com. You may view this 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. mstockstill on DSK4VPTVN1PROD with PROPOSALS 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: Kyri Zaroyiannis, Aerospace Engineer, Chicago Aircraft Certification Office, VerDate Mar<15>2010 17:53 Aug 07, 2013 Jkt 229001 Small Airplane Directorate, FAA, 2300 E. Devon Ave., Des Plaines, IL 60018; phone: 847–294–7836; fax: 847–294– 7834; email: kyri.zaroyiannis@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–2009–0811; Directorate Identifier 2008–NE–41–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 because of 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 On September 1, 2010, we issued AD 2010–19–01, Amendment 39–16429 (75 FR 57660, September 22, 2010), for RRC AE 3007A series turbofan engines with an HPT stage 2 wheel, part number (P/ N) 23069438, 23069592, 23074462, 23074644, 23075345, or 23084520, installed. AD 2010–19–01 requires removing certain HPT stage 2 wheels, or performing repetitive eddy current inspections (ECIs) or surface wave ultrasonic test (SWUT) inspections on them for cracks. AD 2010–19–01 also reduces the approved life limits of certain HPT stage 2 wheels. AD 2010– 19–01 resulted from reports of cracked HPT stage 2 wheels. We issued AD 2010–19–01 to prevent uncontained failure of the HPT stage 2 wheel, damage to the engine, and damage to the airplane. Actions Since Existing AD Was Issued Since we issued AD 2010–19–01 (75 FR 57660, September 22, 2010), RRC did additional analysis and concluded that lower life limits for the affected HPT stage 2 wheels are necessary. RRC based their results on inspection data collected under AD 2010–19–01. In addition, we determined that it is appropriate to establish the new lower life limit to remove the parts from service, and to eliminate the inspection requirements that were needed to provide additional data in support of the analysis for the reduced life limits. We also changed the applicability from PO 00000 Frm 00004 Fmt 4702 Sfmt 4702 RRC AE 3007A series turbofan engines to AE 3007A, A1, A1/1, A1/2, A1/3, A1P, A1E, and A3 turbofan engines, for added clarity. The AE 3007A2 turbofan engine is not included in the applicability because affected HPT stage 2 wheels are not installed on that engine. Relevant Service Information We reviewed RRC Alert Service Bulletin (ASB) No. AE 3007A–A–72– 414, Revision 1, dated December 5, 2012. The ASB lists the lower approved life limits of the affected HPT stage 2 wheels. FAA’s Determination We are proposing this AD because we evaluated all the relevant information and determined the unsafe condition described previously is likely to exist or develop in RRC AE 3007A, A1, A1/1, A1/2, A1/3, A1P, A1E, and A3 turbofan engines with affected HPT stage 2 wheels, installed. Proposed AD Requirements This proposed AD would clarify the AE 3007A turbofan engine model applicability from stating AE 3007A series turbofan engines, to stating AE 3007A, A1, A1/1, A1/2, A1/3, A1P, A1E, and A3 turbofan engines. This proposed AD would also further reduce the approved life limits of affected HPT stage 2 wheels, and would eliminate the initial and repetitive ECIs and SWUT inspections on HPT stage 2 wheels for cracks as required by the existing AD 2010–19–01 (75 FR 57660, September 22, 2010). Costs of Compliance We estimate that this proposed AD would affect 18 engines installed on airplanes of U.S. registry. We also estimate that a replacement HPT stage 2 wheel would cost about $145,524, and that it would be replaced during engine shop visit at no additional labor cost. Based on these figures, we estimate the total cost of the AD to U.S. operators to be $2,619,432. 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 E:\FR\FM\08AUP1.SGM 08AUP1 Federal Register / Vol. 78, No. 153 / Thursday, August 8, 2013 / Proposed Rules 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 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 that the 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 to the extent that it justifies making a regulatory distinction, and (4) Will not have a significant economic impact, positive or negative, on a substantial number of small entities under the criteria of the Regulatory Flexibility Act. List of Subjects in 14 CFR Part 39 Air transportation, Aircraft, Aviation safety, Incorporation by reference, Safety. The Proposed Amendment Accordingly, under the authority delegated to me by the Administrator, the FAA proposes to amend 14 CFR part 39 as follows: PART 39—AIRWORTHINESS DIRECTIVES 1. The authority citation for part 39 continues to read as follows: ■ Authority: 49 U.S.C. 106(g), 40113, 44701. mstockstill on DSK4VPTVN1PROD with PROPOSALS § 39.13 [Amended] 2. The FAA amends § 39.13 by removing airworthiness directive (AD) 2010–19–01, Amendment 39–16429 (75 FR 57660, September 22, 2010), and adding the following new AD: ■ Roll-Royce Corporation (Formerly Allison Engine Company): Docket No. FAA– 2009–0811; Directorate Identifier 2008– NE–41–AD. VerDate Mar<15>2010 17:53 Aug 07, 2013 Jkt 229001 (a) Comments Due Date The FAA must receive comments on this AD action by October 7, 2013. (b) Affected ADs This AD supersedes AD 2010–19–01, Amendment 39–16429 (75 FR 57660, September 22, 2010). (c) Applicability This AD applies to the following RollsRoyce Corporation (RRC) AE 3007A, A1, A1/ 1, A1/2, A1/3, A1P, A1E, and A3 turbofan engines: (1) With an installed high-pressure turbine (HPT) stage 2 wheel, part number (P/N) 23084520, or (2) With an installed HPT stage 2 wheel, P/N 23069438, 23069592, 23074462, 23074644, or 23075345, except for the HPT stage 2 wheel serial numbers listed in Table 2 through Table 5 of RRC Alert Service Bulletin (ASB) No. AE 3007A–A–72–414, Revision 1, dated December 5, 2012. Those HPT stage 2 wheels maintain their existing approved life limits. (d) Unsafe Condition This AD was prompted by stress and lifing analysis resulting in lower approved life limits for certain HPT stage 2 wheels. We are issuing this AD to prevent uncontained failure of the HPT stage 2 wheel, damage to the engine, and damage to the airplane. (e) Compliance Comply with this AD within the compliance times specified, unless already done. (1) For HPT stage 2 wheels, P/N 23069438 and P/N 23069592, do the following: (i) For HPT stage 2 wheels that have 9,500 cycles since new (CSN) or more on the effective date of this AD, remove the HPT stage 2 wheel from service within 15 cyclesin-service (CIS) after the effective date of this AD. (ii) After the effective date of this AD, do not approve for return to service any engine with an HPT stage 2 wheel, P/N 23069438 or P/N 23069592, that exceeds the new life limit of 9,500 CSN. (2) For HPT stage 2 wheels, P/N 23074462, do the following: (i) For AE 3007A1E turbofan engines with HPT stage 2 wheels installed that have 7,500 CSN or more on the effective date of this AD, and for the AE 3007A, A1, A1/1, A1/2, A1/ 3, A1P, and A3 turbofan engines with HPT stage 2 wheels installed that have 9,500 CSN or more on the effective date of this AD, remove the wheel from service within 15 CIS after the effective date of this AD. (ii) Thereafter: (A) Do not approve for return to service any AE 3007A1E turbofan engine with an HPT stage 2 wheel, P/N 23074462, installed, that exceeds the new life limit of 7,500 CSN; and (B) Do not approve for return to service any AE 3007A, A1, A1/1, A1/2, A1/3, A1P, and A3 turbofan engines with an HPT stage 2 wheel, P/N 23074462, installed, that exceeds the new life limit of 9,500 CSN. (C) Throughout the life of the HPT stage 2 wheel, always use the lowest life limit PO 00000 Frm 00005 Fmt 4702 Sfmt 9990 48341 applicable to any engine model in which the part was used in service. If life usage records are not sufficient to identify all engine models in which the part has been flown, the lowest life applicable to any engine model for which the part is eligible must be used. (3) For HPT stage 2 wheels, P/N 23074644 and P/N 23075345, do the following: (i) For HPT stage 2 wheels that have 9,500 CSN or more on the effective date of this AD, remove the HPT stage 2 wheel from service within 15 CIS after the effective date of this AD. (ii) Thereafter, do not approve for return to service any engine with an HPT stage 2 wheel, P/N 23074644 or P/N 23075345, installed, that exceeds the new life limit of 9,500 CSN. (4) For HPT stage 2 wheels, P/N 23084520, do the following: (i) For HPT stage 2 wheels that have 23,000 CSN or more on the effective date of this AD, remove the HPT stage 2 wheel from service before the next flight after the effective date of this AD. (ii) Thereafter, do not approve for return to service any engine with an HPT stage 2 wheel, P/N 23084520, installed, that exceeds the new life limit of 23,000 CSN. (f) Alternative Methods of Compliance The Manager, Chicago Aircraft Certification Office, may approve alternative methods of compliance for this AD. Use the procedures 14 CFR 39.19 to make your request. (g) Related Information (1) For more information about this AD, contact Kyri Zaroyiannis, Aerospace Engineer, Chicago Aircraft Certification Office, Small Airplane Directorate, FAA, 2300 E. Devon Ave., Des Plaines, IL 60018; phone: 847–294–7836; fax: 847–294–7834; email: kyri.zaroyiannis@faa.gov. (2) Refer to RRC ASB No. AE 3007A–A– 72–414, Revision 1, dated December 5, 2012, for related information. (3) For service information identified in this AD, contact Rolls-Royce Corporation, 450 South Meridian Street, Mail Code NB– 01–06, Indianapolis, IN 46225, phone: 317– 230–1667; email: CMSEindyOSD@rollsroyce.com; Internet: www.rolls-royce.com. (4) You may view this 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. Issued in Burlington, Massachusetts, on August 1, 2013. Robert J. Ganley, Acting Assistant Directorate Manager, Engine & Propeller Directorate, Aircraft Certification Service. [FR Doc. 2013–19162 Filed 8–7–13; 8:45 am] BILLING CODE 4910–13–P E:\FR\FM\08AUP1.SGM 08AUP1

Agencies

[Federal Register Volume 78, Number 153 (Thursday, August 8, 2013)]
[Proposed Rules]
[Pages 48339-48341]
From the Federal Register Online via the Government Printing Office [www.gpo.gov]
[FR Doc No: 2013-19162]


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DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION

Federal Aviation Administration

14 CFR Part 39

[Docket No. FAA-2009-0811; Directorate Identifier 2008-NE-41-AD]
RIN 2120-AA64


Airworthiness Directives; Rolls-Royce Corporation Turbofan 
Engines

AGENCY: Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), DOT.

ACTION: Notice of proposed rulemaking (NPRM).

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

SUMMARY: We propose to supersede an existing airworthiness directive 
(AD)

[[Page 48340]]

that applies to certain Rolls-Royce Corporation (RRC) AE 3007A series 
turbofan engines. The existing AD currently requires removing certain 
high-pressure turbine (HPT) stage 2 wheels, or performing inspections 
on them, and reduces their approved life limits. This proposed AD would 
clarify the AE 3007A turbofan engine model applicability, would further 
reduce the approved life limits of affected HPT stage 2 wheels, and 
would eliminate the inspections required by the existing AD. We are 
proposing this AD to prevent uncontained failure of the HPT stage 2 
wheel, damage to the engine, and damage to the airplane.

DATES: We must receive comments on this proposed AD by October 7, 2013.

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: Deliver to Mail address above between 9 
a.m. and 5 p.m., Monday through Friday, except Federal holidays.
    For service information identified in this proposed AD, contact 
Rolls-Royce Corporation, 450 South Meridian Street, Mail Code NB-01-06, 
Indianapolis, IN 46225, phone: 317-230-1667; email: royce.com">CMSEindyOSD@rolls-royce.com; Internet: www.rolls-royce.com. You may view this 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: Kyri Zaroyiannis, Aerospace Engineer, 
Chicago Aircraft Certification Office, Small Airplane Directorate, FAA, 
2300 E. Devon Ave., Des Plaines, IL 60018; phone: 847-294-7836; fax: 
847-294-7834; email: kyri.zaroyiannis@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-2009-0811; 
Directorate Identifier 2008-NE-41-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 because of 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

    On September 1, 2010, we issued AD 2010-19-01, Amendment 39-16429 
(75 FR 57660, September 22, 2010), for RRC AE 3007A series turbofan 
engines with an HPT stage 2 wheel, part number (P/N) 23069438, 
23069592, 23074462, 23074644, 23075345, or 23084520, installed. AD 
2010-19-01 requires removing certain HPT stage 2 wheels, or performing 
repetitive eddy current inspections (ECIs) or surface wave ultrasonic 
test (SWUT) inspections on them for cracks. AD 2010-19-01 also reduces 
the approved life limits of certain HPT stage 2 wheels. AD 2010-19-01 
resulted from reports of cracked HPT stage 2 wheels. We issued AD 2010-
19-01 to prevent uncontained failure of the HPT stage 2 wheel, damage 
to the engine, and damage to the airplane.

Actions Since Existing AD Was Issued

    Since we issued AD 2010-19-01 (75 FR 57660, September 22, 2010), 
RRC did additional analysis and concluded that lower life limits for 
the affected HPT stage 2 wheels are necessary. RRC based their results 
on inspection data collected under AD 2010-19-01. In addition, we 
determined that it is appropriate to establish the new lower life limit 
to remove the parts from service, and to eliminate the inspection 
requirements that were needed to provide additional data in support of 
the analysis for the reduced life limits. We also changed the 
applicability from RRC AE 3007A series turbofan engines to AE 3007A, 
A1, A1/1, A1/2, A1/3, A1P, A1E, and A3 turbofan engines, for added 
clarity. The AE 3007A2 turbofan engine is not included in the 
applicability because affected HPT stage 2 wheels are not installed on 
that engine.

Relevant Service Information

    We reviewed RRC Alert Service Bulletin (ASB) No. AE 3007A-A-72-414, 
Revision 1, dated December 5, 2012. The ASB lists the lower approved 
life limits of the affected HPT stage 2 wheels.

FAA's Determination

    We are proposing this AD because we evaluated all the relevant 
information and determined the unsafe condition described previously is 
likely to exist or develop in RRC AE 3007A, A1, A1/1, A1/2, A1/3, A1P, 
A1E, and A3 turbofan engines with affected HPT stage 2 wheels, 
installed.

Proposed AD Requirements

    This proposed AD would clarify the AE 3007A turbofan engine model 
applicability from stating AE 3007A series turbofan engines, to stating 
AE 3007A, A1, A1/1, A1/2, A1/3, A1P, A1E, and A3 turbofan engines. This 
proposed AD would also further reduce the approved life limits of 
affected HPT stage 2 wheels, and would eliminate the initial and 
repetitive ECIs and SWUT inspections on HPT stage 2 wheels for cracks 
as required by the existing AD 2010-19-01 (75 FR 57660, September 22, 
2010).

Costs of Compliance

    We estimate that this proposed AD would affect 18 engines installed 
on airplanes of U.S. registry. We also estimate that a replacement HPT 
stage 2 wheel would cost about $145,524, and that it would be replaced 
during engine shop visit at no additional labor cost. Based on these 
figures, we estimate the total cost of the AD to U.S. operators to be 
$2,619,432.

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

[[Page 48341]]

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 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 that the 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 to the extent 
that it justifies making a regulatory distinction, and
    (4) Will not have a significant economic impact, positive or 
negative, on a substantial number of small entities under the criteria 
of the Regulatory Flexibility Act.

List of Subjects in 14 CFR Part 39

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

The Proposed Amendment

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

PART 39--AIRWORTHINESS DIRECTIVES

0
1. The authority citation for part 39 continues to read as follows:

    Authority: 49 U.S.C. 106(g), 40113, 44701.


Sec.  39.13  [Amended]

0
2. The FAA amends Sec.  39.13 by removing airworthiness directive (AD) 
2010-19-01, Amendment 39-16429 (75 FR 57660, September 22, 2010), and 
adding the following new AD:

Roll-Royce Corporation (Formerly Allison Engine Company): Docket No. 
FAA-2009-0811; Directorate Identifier 2008-NE-41-AD.

(a) Comments Due Date

    The FAA must receive comments on this AD action by October 7, 
2013.

(b) Affected ADs

    This AD supersedes AD 2010-19-01, Amendment 39-16429 (75 FR 
57660, September 22, 2010).

(c) Applicability

    This AD applies to the following Rolls-Royce Corporation (RRC) 
AE 3007A, A1, A1/1, A1/2, A1/3, A1P, A1E, and A3 turbofan engines:
    (1) With an installed high-pressure turbine (HPT) stage 2 wheel, 
part number (P/N) 23084520, or
    (2) With an installed HPT stage 2 wheel, P/N 23069438, 23069592, 
23074462, 23074644, or 23075345, except for the HPT stage 2 wheel 
serial numbers listed in Table 2 through Table 5 of RRC Alert 
Service Bulletin (ASB) No. AE 3007A-A-72-414, Revision 1, dated 
December 5, 2012. Those HPT stage 2 wheels maintain their existing 
approved life limits.

(d) Unsafe Condition

    This AD was prompted by stress and lifing analysis resulting in 
lower approved life limits for certain HPT stage 2 wheels. We are 
issuing this AD to prevent uncontained failure of the HPT stage 2 
wheel, damage to the engine, and damage to the airplane.

(e) Compliance

    Comply with this AD within the compliance times specified, 
unless already done.
    (1) For HPT stage 2 wheels, P/N 23069438 and P/N 23069592, do 
the following:
    (i) For HPT stage 2 wheels that have 9,500 cycles since new 
(CSN) or more on the effective date of this AD, remove the HPT stage 
2 wheel from service within 15 cycles-in-service (CIS) after the 
effective date of this AD.
    (ii) After the effective date of this AD, do not approve for 
return to service any engine with an HPT stage 2 wheel, P/N 23069438 
or P/N 23069592, that exceeds the new life limit of 9,500 CSN.
    (2) For HPT stage 2 wheels, P/N 23074462, do the following:
    (i) For AE 3007A1E turbofan engines with HPT stage 2 wheels 
installed that have 7,500 CSN or more on the effective date of this 
AD, and for the AE 3007A, A1, A1/1, A1/2, A1/3, A1P, and A3 turbofan 
engines with HPT stage 2 wheels installed that have 9,500 CSN or 
more on the effective date of this AD, remove the wheel from service 
within 15 CIS after the effective date of this AD.
    (ii) Thereafter:
    (A) Do not approve for return to service any AE 3007A1E turbofan 
engine with an HPT stage 2 wheel, P/N 23074462, installed, that 
exceeds the new life limit of 7,500 CSN; and
    (B) Do not approve for return to service any AE 3007A, A1, A1/1, 
A1/2, A1/3, A1P, and A3 turbofan engines with an HPT stage 2 wheel, 
P/N 23074462, installed, that exceeds the new life limit of 9,500 
CSN.
    (C) Throughout the life of the HPT stage 2 wheel, always use the 
lowest life limit applicable to any engine model in which the part 
was used in service. If life usage records are not sufficient to 
identify all engine models in which the part has been flown, the 
lowest life applicable to any engine model for which the part is 
eligible must be used.
    (3) For HPT stage 2 wheels, P/N 23074644 and P/N 23075345, do 
the following:
    (i) For HPT stage 2 wheels that have 9,500 CSN or more on the 
effective date of this AD, remove the HPT stage 2 wheel from service 
within 15 CIS after the effective date of this AD.
    (ii) Thereafter, do not approve for return to service any engine 
with an HPT stage 2 wheel, P/N 23074644 or P/N 23075345, installed, 
that exceeds the new life limit of 9,500 CSN.
    (4) For HPT stage 2 wheels, P/N 23084520, do the following:
    (i) For HPT stage 2 wheels that have 23,000 CSN or more on the 
effective date of this AD, remove the HPT stage 2 wheel from service 
before the next flight after the effective date of this AD.
    (ii) Thereafter, do not approve for return to service any engine 
with an HPT stage 2 wheel, P/N 23084520, installed, that exceeds the 
new life limit of 23,000 CSN.

(f) Alternative Methods of Compliance

    The Manager, Chicago Aircraft Certification Office, may approve 
alternative methods of compliance for this AD. Use the procedures 14 
CFR 39.19 to make your request.

(g) Related Information

    (1) For more information about this AD, contact Kyri 
Zaroyiannis, Aerospace Engineer, Chicago Aircraft Certification 
Office, Small Airplane Directorate, FAA, 2300 E. Devon Ave., Des 
Plaines, IL 60018; phone: 847-294-7836; fax: 847-294-7834; email: 
kyri.zaroyiannis@faa.gov.
    (2) Refer to RRC ASB No. AE 3007A-A-72-414, Revision 1, dated 
December 5, 2012, for related information.
    (3) For service information identified in this AD, contact 
Rolls-Royce Corporation, 450 South Meridian Street, Mail Code NB-01-
06, Indianapolis, IN 46225, phone: 317-230-1667; email: 
royce.com">CMSEindyOSD@rolls-royce.com; Internet: www.rolls-royce.com.
    (4) You may view this 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.

    Issued in Burlington, Massachusetts, on August 1, 2013.
Robert J. Ganley,
Acting Assistant Directorate Manager, Engine & Propeller Directorate, 
Aircraft Certification Service.
[FR Doc. 2013-19162 Filed 8-7-13; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE 4910-13-P

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