Airworthiness Directives; Honeywell International Inc. Turboprop Engines, 26906-26909 [2014-10783]

Download as PDF 26906 Federal Register / Vol. 79, No. 91 / Monday, May 12, 2014 / Proposed Rules comply with this proposed AD. The average labor rate is $85 per hour. Required parts cost about $750 per engine. Based on these figures, we estimate the cost of this proposed AD on U.S. operators to be $1,360. 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 tkelley on DSK3SPTVN1PROD with PROPOSALS 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 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, VerDate Mar<15>2010 17:57 May 09, 2014 Jkt 232001 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 adding the following new airworthiness directive (AD): ■ Turbomeca S.A.: Docket No. FAA–2014– 0219; Directorate Identifier 2014–NE– 04–AD. (a) Comments Due Date We must receive comments by July 11, 2014. (b) Affected ADs None. (c) Applicability This AD applies to Turbomeca S.A. Makila 2A and Makila 2A1 turboshaft engines with a high-pressure (HP) fuel pump, part number (P/N) 0 298 91 806 0 or P/N 0 298 91 805 0, installed, that have not incorporated Turbomeca modification TU 59. (d) Reason This AD was prompted by failure of two HP fuel pumps that resulted in engine inflight shutdowns. We are proposing this AD to prevent failure of the HP fuel pump, which could lead to an in-flight shutdown, damage to the engine, and forced landing or accident. (e) Actions and Compliance Comply with this AD within the compliance times specified, unless already done. (1) Within 25 flight hours (FH) or 6 months after the effective date of this AD, whichever occurs earlier, clean and visually inspect the splines of the HP fuel pump/metering valve and the module M01 drive gear for wear, corrosion, scaling, pitting, and chafing. (2) Thereafter, reinspect every 100 FH since-last-inspection. (3) If the HP fuel pump/metering valve or the module M01 drive gear fail the inspection required by this AD, replace it with a part eligible for installation before further flight. (4) After the effective date of this AD, do not install any HP fuel pump, HP fuel pump drive shaft, module 01 drive gear, or module M01 77-tooth gear onto any engine, or install any engine onto any helicopter, unless the HP fuel pump/metering valve and the module M01 drive gear passed the inspection required by paragraph (e) of this AD. (f) 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. (g) Related Information (1) For more information about this AD, contact James E. Gray, Aerospace Engineer, PO 00000 Frm 00037 Fmt 4702 Sfmt 4702 Engine Certification Office, FAA, Engine & Propeller Directorate, 12 New England Executive Park, Burlington, MA 01803; phone: (781) 238–7742; fax: (781) 238–7199; email: James.E.Gray@faa.gov. (2) Refer to MCAI European Aviation Safety Agency AD 2014–0059, dated March 10, 2014, for more information. You may examine the MCAI in the AD docket on the Internet at https://www.regulations.gov by searching for and locating it in Docket No. FAA–2014–0219. (3) Turbomeca S.A. Mandatory Service Bulletin No. 298 73 2818, Version F, dated March 5, 2014, pertains to the subject of this AD and can be obtained from Turbomeca S.A., using the contact information in paragraph (g)(4) of this AD. (4) For service information identified in this AD, contact Turbomeca, S.A., 40220 Tarnos, France; phone: 33 (0)5 59 74 40 00; telex: 570 042; fax: 33 (0)5 59 74 45 15. (5) 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 May 6, 2014. Colleen M. D’Alessandro, Assistant Directorate Manager, Engine & Propeller Directorate, Aircraft Certification Service. [FR Doc. 2014–10782 Filed 5–9–14; 8:45 am] BILLING CODE 4910–13–P DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION Federal Aviation Administration 14 CFR Part 39 [Docket No. FAA–2012–0913; Directorate Identifier 2012–NE–23–AD] RIN 2120–AA64 Airworthiness Directives; Honeywell International Inc. Turboprop Engines Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), DOT. ACTION: Notice of proposed rulemaking (NPRM). AGENCY: We propose to adopt a new airworthiness directive (AD) for certain Honeywell International Inc. TPE331–5, –5A, –5AB, –5B, –10, –10R, –10U, –10UF, –10UG, –10UGR, and –10UR model turboprop engines. This proposed AD was prompted by engine propeller shaft coupling failures, leading to unexpected propeller pitch changes resulting in high aerodynamic and asymmetric drag on the airplanes using these engines. This proposed AD would require removing certain part number (P/N) propeller shaft couplings from service. This proposed AD would also require inserting a copy of Honeywell International Inc. Operating SUMMARY: E:\FR\FM\12MYP1.SGM 12MYP1 Federal Register / Vol. 79, No. 91 / Monday, May 12, 2014 / Proposed Rules tkelley on DSK3SPTVN1PROD with PROPOSALS Information Letter OI331–26, dated March 2, 2010, into the applicable Airplane Flight Manuals. We are proposing this AD to prevent loss of airplane control, leading to an accident. DATES: We must receive comments on this proposed AD by July 11, 2014. 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 Honeywell International Inc., 111 S. 34th Street, Phoenix, AZ 85034–2802; phone: 800– 601–3099; Web site: https:// portal.honeywell.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 by searching for and locating Docket No. FAA–2012– 0913; 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: Joseph Costa, Aerospace Engineer, Los Angeles Aircraft Certification Office, FAA, Transport Airplane Directorate, 3960 Paramount Blvd., Lakewood, CA 90712–4137; phone: 562–627–5246; fax: 562–627–5210; email: joseph.costa@ faa.gov. SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: Comments Invited We invite you to send any written relevant data, views, or arguments about this proposal. Send your comments to VerDate Mar<15>2010 17:57 May 09, 2014 Jkt 232001 an address listed under the ADDRESSES section. Include ‘‘Docket No. FAA– 2012–0913; Directorate Identifier 2012– NE–23–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 We have received numerous reports of propeller shaft couplings, P/Ns 3107065–1 and 865888–3, failing. These propeller shaft couplings experience fatigue cracks at the corners of the lubrication slots that may result in separation and fragmentation of the propeller shaft coupling. That separation causes a sudden loss of drive torque from the engine’s power section to the propeller shaft (called drivetrain uncoupling). After a drivetrain uncoupling, the engine’s fuel pump continues to provide fuel to the power section, and with no propeller load and no engine control changes by the pilot, the engine power section will accelerate to the fuel control’s overspeed governor set point. Even though the propeller drive is uncoupled, the propeller blade pitch is still controlled by the propeller governor. During this overspeed condition, the propeller governor is designed to move the propeller blades toward higher pitch until full feather is reached with the propeller not rotating or rotating very slowly. Under certain conditions the power section will remain at about 104% RPM with the propeller blades in feather position and the propeller not rotating or rotating very slowly, until the engine is shut down by the pilot. Potential Unsafe Failure Scenarios After a propeller shaft drivetrain uncoupling, the speed of the engine’s power section may be reduced: (1) From full power, by the pilot retarding the power lever to flight idle, which reduces fuel to the power section; (2) at flight idle, because the fuel control reduces the fuel supply to the power section and/or; (3) by fragmentation of the propeller shaft coupling and secondary damage to the gears in the gearbox. If the resulting speed of the power section falls below the propeller governor set PO 00000 Frm 00038 Fmt 4702 Sfmt 4702 26907 point (set by the pilot-controlled condition lever), the propeller governor will move the propeller out of feather to a low-pitch, high-drag position. Also, after a propeller shaft drivetrain uncoupling, a pilot reacting to the overspeed of the power section may inadvertently retard the power lever to flight idle. Doing so will cause the propeller governor to move the feathered propeller to a low-pitch, highdrag condition. Several reports during maintenance test flights and in-service operations of twin-engine airplanes have shown that inadvertent movement of the propeller blade pitch to a low blade angle create a high aerodynamic and asymmetric drag with resultant uncommanded yaw and roll response on the airplane. Following this unexpected yaw and roll response, stabilization and control of the airplane may range from unusually difficult to catastrophic, and pilots may lack sufficient time to properly assess the engine problem, initiate an engine emergency shutdown, and activate the feather valve. The drivetrain uncoupling events described previously lead to loss of thrust, cause the propeller blade pitch to go to a low-blade angle, and create a high aerodynamic and asymmetric drag on the airplane. The low-blade angle may result in loss of airplane control, leading to an accident. After a review of about 40 years of National Transportation Safety Board fatal accident reports of multi-engine airplanes with TPE331 engines, we determined that certain airplanes are more at risk by engine-failure events than others. Therefore, we are proposing compliance times in this AD that address the risk by airplane after a propeller shaft coupling failure. Relevant Service Information Allied-Signal Aerospace Company, Garrett Engine Division Service Bulletin No. TPE331–72–0873, Revision 1, dated May 20, 1993, describes procedures for replacing the affected P/Ns of propeller shaft couplings with a defined redesigned propeller shaft coupling. Honeywell International Inc. Operating Information Letter OI331–26, dated March 2, 2010, describes emergency procedures for aircrew if a propeller shaft coupling fails. 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 other products of the same type design. E:\FR\FM\12MYP1.SGM 12MYP1 26908 Federal Register / Vol. 79, No. 91 / Monday, May 12, 2014 / Proposed Rules Proposed AD Requirements This proposed AD would require removing propeller shaft couplings, P/ Ns 3107065–1, 865888–3, 865888–6, and 865888–8, from service. This proposed AD would also require inserting a copy of Honeywell International Inc. Operating Information Letter OI331–26, dated March 2, 2010, into the applicable Airplane Flight Manual, Pilot Operating Handbook, or Manufacturer’s Operating Manual. tkelley on DSK3SPTVN1PROD with PROPOSALS Costs of Compliance We estimate that this proposed AD would affect 485 engines installed on airplanes of U.S. registry. We also estimate that it would take about one hour per engine to perform the actions required by this proposed AD, if done at next turbine hot section scheduled inspection, and 40 hours per engine if done at an unscheduled access of the propeller shaft coupling. We also estimate that 400 engines would have the replacement actions done at a scheduled time of next turbine hot section inspection, and 85 engines would have the replacement actions done at an unscheduled access of the propeller shaft coupling. We also estimate that the average labor rate is $85 per hour. Required parts would cost about $12,000 per engine. Based on these figures, we estimate the total cost of the proposed AD to U.S. operators to be $6,143,000. 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 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 VerDate Mar<15>2010 17:57 May 09, 2014 Jkt 232001 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 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. § 39.13 [Amended] 2. The FAA amends § 39.13 by adding the following new airworthiness directive (AD): ■ Honeywell International Inc. (Type Certificate Previously Held by AlliedSignal Inc., Garrett Engine Division; Garrett Turbine Engine Company; and AiResearch Manufacturing Company of Arizona): Docket No. FAA–2012–0913; Directorate Identifier 2012–NE–23–AD. (a) Comments Due Date We must receive comments by July 11, 2014. (b) Affected ADs None. (c) Applicability This AD applies to Honeywell International Inc. TPE331–5, –5A, –5AB, –5B, –10, –10R, –10U, –10UF, –10UG, –10UGR, and –10UR model turboprop engines, with a propeller shaft coupling, part number (P/N) 3107065–1, 865888–3, 865888– 6, or 865888–8, installed. (d) Unsafe Condition This AD was prompted by engine propeller shaft coupling failures leading to unexpected PO 00000 Frm 00039 Fmt 4702 Sfmt 4702 propeller pitch changes resulting in high aerodynamic and asymmetric drag on the airplanes using these engines. We are issuing this AD to prevent loss of airplane control, leading to an accident. (e) Compliance Comply with this AD within the compliance times specified, unless already done. (1) Engines Installed In Mitsubishi MU–2B Series (MU–2 Series) Airplanes: Remove from service the affected propeller shaft coupling at the earliest of the following: (i) Next piece-part exposure; or (ii) Next turbine (hot) section inspection (HSI); or (iii) Before accumulating an additional 1,200 cycles after the effective date of this AD. (2) Engines Installed In Construcciones Aeronauticas, S.A. (CASA) C–212 Series, and Twin Commander 690 and 695 Series (Jetprop Commander) Airplanes: Remove from service the affected propeller shaft coupling at the earliest of the following: (i) Next piece-part exposure; or (ii) Next turbine HSI; or (iii) Before accumulating an additional 2,400 cycles after the effective date of this AD. (3) Engines Installed In British Aerospace Jetstream 3101 Series, Dornier Luftfahrt Dornier 228 Series, and M7 (formerly Fairchild, Swearingen) SA226 and SA227 Series Airplanes, and All Other Airplanes Not Listed in this AD Using Affected Engines: Remove from service the affected propeller shaft coupling at the earliest of the following: (i) Next piece-part exposure; or (ii) Next turbine HSI; or (iii) Before accumulating an additional 3,600 cycles after the effective date of this AD. (4) Inserting a Copy of Honeywell International Inc. Operating Information Letter into the FAA-Approved Flight Manual: Within 60 days after the effective date of this AD, for airplanes with engine propeller shaft coupling, P/N 3107065–1, 865888–3, 865888–6, or 865888–8, installed, insert a copy of Honeywell International Inc. Operating Information Letter OI331–26, dated March 2, 2010, into the Emergency Procedures Section of the applicable Airplane Flight Manual, Pilot Operating Handbook, or Manufacturer’s Operating Manual. (f) Definition For the purpose of this AD, next piece-part exposure is when the nose cone assembly is removed from the engine. (g) Installation Prohibition After the effective date of this AD, do not install any propeller shaft coupling, P/N 3107065–1, 865888–3, 865888–6, or 865888– 8, into any engine. (h) Alternative Methods of Compliance (AMOCs) The Manager, Los Angeles Aircraft Certification Office, FAA, may approve AMOCs for this AD. Use the procedures found in 14 CFR 39.19 to make your request. E:\FR\FM\12MYP1.SGM 12MYP1 Federal Register / Vol. 79, No. 91 / Monday, May 12, 2014 / Proposed Rules (i) Related Information (1) For more information about this AD, contact Joseph Costa, Aerospace Engineer, Los Angeles Aircraft Certification Office, FAA, Transport Airplane Directorate, 3960 Paramount Blvd., Lakewood, CA 90712– 4137; phone: 562–627–5246; fax: 562–627– 5210; email: joseph.costa@faa.gov. (2) Allied-Signal Aerospace Company Service Bulletin No. TPE331–72–0873, Revision 1, dated May 20, 1993, addresses acceptable replacement parts, and other information pertaining to the subject of this AD. (3) For service information identified in this AD, contact Honeywell International Inc., 111 S. 34th Street, Phoenix, AZ 85034– 2802; phone: 800–601–3099; Web site: https://portal.honeywell.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 May 6, 2014. Colleen M. D’Alessandro, Assistant Directorate Manager, Engine & Propeller Directorate, Aircraft Certification Service. [FR Doc. 2014–10783 Filed 5–9–14; 8:45 am] BILLING CODE 4910–13–P ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION AGENCY 40 CFR Part 52 [EPA–R06–OAR–2014–0214; FRL–9910–77– Region 6] Approval and Promulgation of Implementation Plans; New Mexico; Regional Haze and Interstate Transport Affecting Visibility State Implementation Plan Revisions; Withdrawal of Federal Implementation Plan for the San Juan Generating Station Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). ACTION: Proposed rule. AGENCY: The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) is proposing to approve revisions to the New Mexico Regional Haze State Implementation Plan that address the Best Available Retrofit Technology (BART) requirement for oxides of nitrogen (NOX) for the Public Service of New Mexico (PNM) San Juan Generating Station (SJGS) in San Juan County, New Mexico and the New Mexico Visibility Transport SIP that address impacts of emissions from the SJGS, as required by the Federal Clean Air Act (CAA) mandate to ensure that emissions from sources in New Mexico do not interfere with programs in other states to protect visibility. In tkelley on DSK3SPTVN1PROD with PROPOSALS SUMMARY: VerDate Mar<15>2010 17:57 May 09, 2014 Jkt 232001 conjunction with these proposed approvals, we propose to withdraw the federal implementation plan (FIP) that addresses the NOX BART and visibility transport requirements for the SJGS. The EPA is taking this action under the CAA. DATES: Comments must be received on or before June 11, 2014. ADDRESSES: Submit your comments, identified by Docket ID No. EPA–R06– OAR–2014–0214 by one of the following methods: • Federal e-Rulemaking Portal: https://www.regulations.gov. Follow the online instructions. • Email: feldman.michael@epa.gov. • Mail or delivery: Mr. Guy Donaldson, Chief, Air Planning Section (6PD–L), Environmental Protection Agency, 1445 Ross Avenue, Suite 1200, Dallas, Texas 75202–2733. Instructions: Direct your comments to Docket No. EPA–R06–OAR–2014–0214. Our policy is that all comments received will be included in the public docket without change and may be made available online at www.regulations.gov, including any personal information provided, unless the comment includes information claimed to be Confidential Business Information (CBI) or other information whose disclosure is restricted by statute. The www.regulations.gov Web site is an ‘‘anonymous access’’ system, which means we will not know your identity or contact information unless you provide it in the body of your comment. If you send an email comment directly to us without going through www.regulations.gov your email address will be automatically captured and included as part of the comment that is placed in the public docket and made available on the Internet. If you submit an electronic comment, we recommend that you include your name and other contact information in the body of your comment and with any disk or CD–ROM you submit. If we cannot read your comment due to technical difficulties and cannot contact you for clarification, we may not be able to consider your comment. Electronic files should avoid the use of special characters, any form of encryption, and be free of any defects or viruses. Do not submit information that you consider to be CBI or otherwise protected through www.regulations.gov or email. Clearly mark the part or all of the information that you claim as CBI. For CBI information in a disk or CD ROM that you mail to EPA, mark the outside of the disk or CD ROM as CBI and identify electronically within the disk or CD ROM the specific PO 00000 Frm 00040 Fmt 4702 Sfmt 4702 26909 information that is claimed as CBI. In addition to one complete version of the comment that includes information claimed as CBI, you must submit a copy of the comment that does not contain the information claimed as CBI for inclusion in the public docket. We will not disclose information so marked except in accordance with procedures set forth in 40 CFR part 2. Docket: The index to the docket for this action is available electronically at www.regulations.gov and in hard copy at EPA Region 6, 1445 Ross Avenue, Suite 700, Dallas, Texas. While all documents in the docket are listed in the index, some information may be publicly available only at the hard copy location (e.g., copyrighted material), and some may not be publicly available at either location (e.g., CBI). To inspect the hard copy materials, please schedule an appointment with the person listed in the FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT paragraph below or Mr. Bill Deese at 214–665–7253. FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Michael Feldman, 214–665–9793; feldman.michael@epa.gov. SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: Definitions For the purpose of this document, we are giving meaning to certain words or initials as follows: i. The words or initials Act or CAA mean or refer to the Clean Air Act, unless the context indicates otherwise. ii. The words EPA, we, us or our mean or refer to the United States Environmental Protection Agency. iii. The initials SIP mean or refer to State Implementation Plan. iv. The initials FIP mean or refer to Federal Implementation Plan. v. The initials RH and RHR mean or refer to Regional Haze and the Regional Haze Rule. vi. The initials NMED mean the New Mexico Environmental Department. vii. The initials BART mean or refer to Best Available Retrofit Technology. viii. The initials EGUs mean or refer to Electric Generating Units. ix. The initials NOX mean or refer to nitrogen oxides. x. The initials SO2 mean or refer to sulfur dioxide. xi. The initials H2SO4 mean or refer to sulfuric acid. xii. The initials PM2.5 mean or refer to particulate matter with an aerodynamic of less than 2.5 micrometers. xiii. The initials NAAQS mean or refer to the National Ambient Air Quality Standards. xiv. The initials RPOs mean or refer to regional planning organizations. E:\FR\FM\12MYP1.SGM 12MYP1

Agencies

[Federal Register Volume 79, Number 91 (Monday, May 12, 2014)]
[Proposed Rules]
[Pages 26906-26909]
From the Federal Register Online via the Government Printing Office [www.gpo.gov]
[FR Doc No: 2014-10783]


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

DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION

Federal Aviation Administration

14 CFR Part 39

[Docket No. FAA-2012-0913; Directorate Identifier 2012-NE-23-AD]
RIN 2120-AA64


Airworthiness Directives; Honeywell International Inc. Turboprop 
Engines

AGENCY: Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), DOT.

ACTION: Notice of proposed rulemaking (NPRM).

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

SUMMARY: We propose to adopt a new airworthiness directive (AD) for 
certain Honeywell International Inc. TPE331-5, -5A, -5AB, -5B, -10, -
10R, -10U, -10UF, -10UG, -10UGR, and -10UR model turboprop engines. 
This proposed AD was prompted by engine propeller shaft coupling 
failures, leading to unexpected propeller pitch changes resulting in 
high aerodynamic and asymmetric drag on the airplanes using these 
engines. This proposed AD would require removing certain part number 
(P/N) propeller shaft couplings from service. This proposed AD would 
also require inserting a copy of Honeywell International Inc. Operating

[[Page 26907]]

Information Letter OI331-26, dated March 2, 2010, into the applicable 
Airplane Flight Manuals. We are proposing this AD to prevent loss of 
airplane control, leading to an accident.

DATES: We must receive comments on this proposed AD by July 11, 2014.

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 
Honeywell International Inc., 111 S. 34th Street, Phoenix, AZ 85034-
2802; phone: 800-601-3099; Web site: https://portal.honeywell.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 by searching for and locating Docket No. FAA-2012-
0913; 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: Joseph Costa, Aerospace Engineer, Los 
Angeles Aircraft Certification Office, FAA, Transport Airplane 
Directorate, 3960 Paramount Blvd., Lakewood, CA 90712-4137; phone: 562-
627-5246; fax: 562-627-5210; email: joseph.costa@faa.gov.

SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION:

Comments Invited

    We invite you to send any written relevant data, views, or 
arguments about this proposal. Send your comments to an address listed 
under the ADDRESSES section. Include ``Docket No. FAA-2012-0913; 
Directorate Identifier 2012-NE-23-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

    We have received numerous reports of propeller shaft couplings, P/
Ns 3107065-1 and 865888-3, failing. These propeller shaft couplings 
experience fatigue cracks at the corners of the lubrication slots that 
may result in separation and fragmentation of the propeller shaft 
coupling. That separation causes a sudden loss of drive torque from the 
engine's power section to the propeller shaft (called drivetrain 
uncoupling). After a drivetrain uncoupling, the engine's fuel pump 
continues to provide fuel to the power section, and with no propeller 
load and no engine control changes by the pilot, the engine power 
section will accelerate to the fuel control's overspeed governor set 
point. Even though the propeller drive is uncoupled, the propeller 
blade pitch is still controlled by the propeller governor. During this 
overspeed condition, the propeller governor is designed to move the 
propeller blades toward higher pitch until full feather is reached with 
the propeller not rotating or rotating very slowly. Under certain 
conditions the power section will remain at about 104% RPM with the 
propeller blades in feather position and the propeller not rotating or 
rotating very slowly, until the engine is shut down by the pilot.

Potential Unsafe Failure Scenarios

    After a propeller shaft drivetrain uncoupling, the speed of the 
engine's power section may be reduced: (1) From full power, by the 
pilot retarding the power lever to flight idle, which reduces fuel to 
the power section; (2) at flight idle, because the fuel control reduces 
the fuel supply to the power section and/or; (3) by fragmentation of 
the propeller shaft coupling and secondary damage to the gears in the 
gearbox. If the resulting speed of the power section falls below the 
propeller governor set point (set by the pilot-controlled condition 
lever), the propeller governor will move the propeller out of feather 
to a low-pitch, high-drag position.
    Also, after a propeller shaft drivetrain uncoupling, a pilot 
reacting to the overspeed of the power section may inadvertently retard 
the power lever to flight idle. Doing so will cause the propeller 
governor to move the feathered propeller to a low-pitch, high-drag 
condition.
    Several reports during maintenance test flights and in-service 
operations of twin-engine airplanes have shown that inadvertent 
movement of the propeller blade pitch to a low blade angle create a 
high aerodynamic and asymmetric drag with resultant uncommanded yaw and 
roll response on the airplane. Following this unexpected yaw and roll 
response, stabilization and control of the airplane may range from 
unusually difficult to catastrophic, and pilots may lack sufficient 
time to properly assess the engine problem, initiate an engine 
emergency shutdown, and activate the feather valve.
    The drivetrain uncoupling events described previously lead to loss 
of thrust, cause the propeller blade pitch to go to a low-blade angle, 
and create a high aerodynamic and asymmetric drag on the airplane. The 
low-blade angle may result in loss of airplane control, leading to an 
accident. After a review of about 40 years of National Transportation 
Safety Board fatal accident reports of multi-engine airplanes with 
TPE331 engines, we determined that certain airplanes are more at risk 
by engine-failure events than others. Therefore, we are proposing 
compliance times in this AD that address the risk by airplane after a 
propeller shaft coupling failure.

Relevant Service Information

    Allied-Signal Aerospace Company, Garrett Engine Division Service 
Bulletin No. TPE331-72-0873, Revision 1, dated May 20, 1993, describes 
procedures for replacing the affected P/Ns of propeller shaft couplings 
with a defined redesigned propeller shaft coupling.
    Honeywell International Inc. Operating Information Letter OI331-26, 
dated March 2, 2010, describes emergency procedures for aircrew if a 
propeller shaft coupling fails.

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 other products of the same type design.

[[Page 26908]]

Proposed AD Requirements

    This proposed AD would require removing propeller shaft couplings, 
P/Ns 3107065-1, 865888-3, 865888-6, and 865888-8, from service.
    This proposed AD would also require inserting a copy of Honeywell 
International Inc. Operating Information Letter OI331-26, dated March 
2, 2010, into the applicable Airplane Flight Manual, Pilot Operating 
Handbook, or Manufacturer's Operating Manual.

Costs of Compliance

    We estimate that this proposed AD would affect 485 engines 
installed on airplanes of U.S. registry. We also estimate that it would 
take about one hour per engine to perform the actions required by this 
proposed AD, if done at next turbine hot section scheduled inspection, 
and 40 hours per engine if done at an unscheduled access of the 
propeller shaft coupling. We also estimate that 400 engines would have 
the replacement actions done at a scheduled time of next turbine hot 
section inspection, and 85 engines would have the replacement actions 
done at an unscheduled access of the propeller shaft coupling. We also 
estimate that the average labor rate is $85 per hour. Required parts 
would cost about $12,000 per engine. Based on these figures, we 
estimate the total cost of the proposed AD to U.S. operators to be 
$6,143,000.

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 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 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 adding the following new airworthiness 
directive (AD):

Honeywell International Inc. (Type Certificate Previously Held by 
AlliedSignal Inc., Garrett Engine Division; Garrett Turbine Engine 
Company; and AiResearch Manufacturing Company of Arizona): Docket 
No. FAA-2012-0913; Directorate Identifier 2012-NE-23-AD.

(a) Comments Due Date

    We must receive comments by July 11, 2014.

(b) Affected ADs

    None.

(c) Applicability

    This AD applies to Honeywell International Inc. TPE331-5, -5A, -
5AB, -5B, -10, -10R, -10U, -10UF, -10UG, -10UGR, and -10UR model 
turboprop engines, with a propeller shaft coupling, part number (P/
N) 3107065-1, 865888-3, 865888-6, or 865888-8, installed.

(d) Unsafe Condition

    This AD was prompted by engine propeller shaft coupling failures 
leading to unexpected propeller pitch changes resulting in high 
aerodynamic and asymmetric drag on the airplanes using these 
engines. We are issuing this AD to prevent loss of airplane control, 
leading to an accident.

(e) Compliance

    Comply with this AD within the compliance times specified, 
unless already done.
    (1) Engines Installed In Mitsubishi MU-2B Series (MU-2 Series) 
Airplanes: Remove from service the affected propeller shaft coupling 
at the earliest of the following:
    (i) Next piece-part exposure; or
    (ii) Next turbine (hot) section inspection (HSI); or
    (iii) Before accumulating an additional 1,200 cycles after the 
effective date of this AD.
    (2) Engines Installed In Construcciones Aeronauticas, S.A. 
(CASA) C-212 Series, and Twin Commander 690 and 695 Series (Jetprop 
Commander) Airplanes: Remove from service the affected propeller 
shaft coupling at the earliest of the following:
    (i) Next piece-part exposure; or
    (ii) Next turbine HSI; or
    (iii) Before accumulating an additional 2,400 cycles after the 
effective date of this AD.
    (3) Engines Installed In British Aerospace Jetstream 3101 
Series, Dornier Luftfahrt Dornier 228 Series, and M7 (formerly 
Fairchild, Swearingen) SA226 and SA227 Series Airplanes, and All 
Other Airplanes Not Listed in this AD Using Affected Engines: Remove 
from service the affected propeller shaft coupling at the earliest 
of the following:
    (i) Next piece-part exposure; or
    (ii) Next turbine HSI; or
    (iii) Before accumulating an additional 3,600 cycles after the 
effective date of this AD.
    (4) Inserting a Copy of Honeywell International Inc. Operating 
Information Letter into the FAA-Approved Flight Manual:
    Within 60 days after the effective date of this AD, for 
airplanes with engine propeller shaft coupling, P/N 3107065-1, 
865888-3, 865888-6, or 865888-8, installed, insert a copy of 
Honeywell International Inc. Operating Information Letter OI331-26, 
dated March 2, 2010, into the Emergency Procedures Section of the 
applicable Airplane Flight Manual, Pilot Operating Handbook, or 
Manufacturer's Operating Manual.

(f) Definition

    For the purpose of this AD, next piece-part exposure is when the 
nose cone assembly is removed from the engine.

(g) Installation Prohibition

    After the effective date of this AD, do not install any 
propeller shaft coupling, P/N 3107065-1, 865888-3, 865888-6, or 
865888-8, into any engine.

(h) Alternative Methods of Compliance (AMOCs)

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

[[Page 26909]]

(i) Related Information

    (1) For more information about this AD, contact Joseph Costa, 
Aerospace Engineer, Los Angeles Aircraft Certification Office, FAA, 
Transport Airplane Directorate, 3960 Paramount Blvd., Lakewood, CA 
90712-4137; phone: 562-627-5246; fax: 562-627-5210; email: 
joseph.costa@faa.gov.
    (2) Allied-Signal Aerospace Company Service Bulletin No. TPE331-
72-0873, Revision 1, dated May 20, 1993, addresses acceptable 
replacement parts, and other information pertaining to the subject 
of this AD.
    (3) For service information identified in this AD, contact 
Honeywell International Inc., 111 S. 34th Street, Phoenix, AZ 85034-
2802; phone: 800-601-3099; Web site: https://portal.honeywell.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 May 6, 2014.
Colleen M. D'Alessandro,
Assistant Directorate Manager, Engine & Propeller Directorate, Aircraft 
Certification Service.
[FR Doc. 2014-10783 Filed 5-9-14; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE 4910-13-P
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