Airworthiness Directives; The Boeing Company Airplanes, 60331-60334 [2014-23545]

Download as PDF Federal Register / Vol. 79, No. 194 / Tuesday, October 7, 2014 / Rules and Regulations date of this AD), whichever occurs later, and repetitively thereafter at intervals not to exceed 600 hours TIS or 12 months, whichever occurs first. Follow Pacific Aerospace Limited Mandatory Service Bulletin PACSB/XL/068, issue 3, dated May 29, 2014. Note 1 to paragraph (f)(1) of this AD: The MCAI mentions actions that are different for standard category versus restricted category airplanes. The Pacific Aerospace Limited Model 750XL airplane is only type certificated in the normal (standard) category in the United States so these are the actions that are specified in this AD. (2) If you find any cracks as a result of any inspection required by paragraph (f)(1) of this AD, before further flight, replace both plates. Do the replacement following Pacific Aerospace Limited Mandatory Service Bulletin PACSB/XL/068, issue 3, dated May 29, 2014. (g) Other FAA AD Provisions The following provisions also apply to this AD: (1) Alternative Methods of Compliance (AMOCs): The Manager, Standards Office, FAA, has the authority to approve AMOCs for this AD, if requested using the procedures found in 14 CFR 39.19. Send information to ATTN: Karl Schletzbaum, Aerospace Engineer, FAA, Small Airplane Directorate, 901 Locust, Room 301, Kansas City, Missouri 64106; telephone: (816) 329–4123; fax: (816) 329–4090; email: Karl.Schletzbaum@faa.gov. Before using any approved AMOC on any airplane to which the AMOC applies, notify your appropriate principal inspector (PI) in the FAA Flight Standards District Office (FSDO), or lacking a PI, your local FSDO. (2) Airworthy Product: For any requirement in this AD to obtain corrective actions from a manufacturer or other source, use these actions if they are FAA-approved. Corrective actions are considered FAA-approved if they are approved by the State of Design Authority (or their delegated agent). You are required to assure the product is airworthy before it is returned to service. asabaliauskas on DSK5VPTVN1PROD with RULES (h) Related Information Refer to MCAI New Zealand Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) AD DCA/750XL/16A, dated June 18, 2014, for related information. The MCAI can be found in the AD docket on the Internet at: https://www.regulations.gov/ #!documentDetail;D=FAA-2014-0494-0002. (i) Material Incorporated by Reference (1) The Director of the Federal Register approved the incorporation by reference (IBR) of the service information listed in this paragraph under 5 U.S.C. 552(a) and 1 CFR part 51. (2) You must use this service information as applicable to do the actions required by this AD, unless the AD specifies otherwise. (i) Pacific Aerospace Limited Mandatory Service Bulletin PACSB/XL/068, issue 3, dated May 29, 2014. (ii) Reserved. (3) For Pacific Aerospace Limited service information identified in this AD, contact Pacific Aerospace Unlimited, Airport Road, Hamilton, Private Bag HN3027, Hamilton VerDate Sep<11>2014 16:08 Oct 06, 2014 Jkt 235001 3240, New Zealand, phone: +64 7 843 6144; fax: +64 7 843 6134; email: pacific@ aerospace.co.nz, internet: www.aerospace.co.nz. (4) You may view this service information at the FAA, Small Airplane Directorate, 901 Locust, Kansas City, Missouri 64106. For information on the availability of this material at the FAA, call (816) 329–4148. (5) You may view this service information that is incorporated by reference at the National Archives and Records Administration (NARA). For information on the availability of this material at NARA, call 202–741–6030, or go to: https:// www.archives.gov/federal-register/cfr/ibrlocations.html. Issued in Kansas City, Missouri, on September 26, 2014. Kelly A. Broadway, Acting Manager, Small Airplane Directorate, Aircraft Certification Service. [FR Doc. 2014–23557 Filed 10–6–14; 8:45 am] BILLING CODE 4910–13–P DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION Federal Aviation Administration 14 CFR Part 39 [Docket No. FAA–2014–0654; Directorate Identifier 2014–NM–071–AD; Amendment 39–17983; AD 2014–20–10] RIN 2120–AA64 Airworthiness Directives; The Boeing Company Airplanes Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), DOT. ACTION: Final rule; request for comments. AGENCY: We are superseding Airworthiness Directive (AD) 2013–11– 14 for certain The Boeing Company Model 777–200 and -300 series airplanes. AD 2013–11–14 required repetitive general visual inspections of the strut forward dry bay for the presence of hydraulic fluid, and related investigative and corrective actions (including checking drain lines for blockage due to hydraulic fluid coking, and cleaning or replacing drain lines to allow drainage) if necessary. This AD adds airplanes to the applicability. This AD was prompted by reports of hydraulic fluid contamination (including contamination caused by hydraulic fluid in its liquid, vapor, and/ or solid (coked) form) found in the strut forward dry bay. We are issuing this AD to detect and correct hydraulic fluid contamination of the strut forward dry bay, which could result in hydrogen embrittlement of the titanium forward engine mount bulkhead fittings, and consequent inability of the fittings to SUMMARY: PO 00000 Frm 00013 Fmt 4700 Sfmt 4700 60331 carry engine loads, resulting in engine separation. Hydrogen embrittlement also could cause a through-crack formation across the fittings through which an engine fire could breach into the strut, resulting in an uncontained strut fire. DATES: This AD is effective October 22, 2014. The Director of the Federal Register approved the incorporation by reference of a certain publication listed in this AD as of October 22, 2014. We must receive any comments on this AD by November 21, 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: 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 Boeing Commercial Airplanes, Attention: Data & Services Management, P. O. Box 3707, MC 2H– 65, Seattle, WA 98124–2207; telephone 206–544–5000, extension 1; fax 206– 766–5680; Internet https:// www.myboeingfleet.com. You may view the referenced service information at the FAA, Transport Airplane Directorate, 1601 Lind Avenue SW., Renton, WA. For information on the availability of this material at the FAA, call 425–227– 1221. 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–2014– 0654; 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 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: Kevin Nguyen, Aerospace Engineer, E:\FR\FM\07OCR1.SGM 07OCR1 60332 Federal Register / Vol. 79, No. 194 / Tuesday, October 7, 2014 / Rules and Regulations Propulsion Branch, ANM–140S, FAA, Seattle Aircraft Certification Office, 1601 Lind Avenue SW., Renton, WA 98057–3356; telephone: 425–917–6501; fax: 425–917–6590; email: kevin.nguyen@faa.gov. SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: Discussion On May 24, 2013, we issued AD 2013–11–14, Amendment 39–17474 (78 FR 35749, June 14, 2013), for certain The Boeing Company Model 777–200 and -300 series airplanes. AD 2013–11– 14 required repetitive general visual inspections of the strut forward dry bay for the presence of hydraulic fluid, and related investigative and corrective actions (including checking drain lines for blockage due to hydraulic fluid coking, and cleaning or replacing drain lines to allow drainage) if necessary. AD 2013–11–14 resulted from reports of hydraulic fluid contamination (including contamination caused by hydraulic fluid in its liquid, vapor, and/ or solid (coked) form) found in the strut forward dry bay. We issued AD 2013– 11–14 to detect and correct hydraulic fluid contamination of the strut forward dry bay, which could result in hydrogen embrittlement of the titanium forward engine mount bulkhead fittings, and consequent inability of the fittings to carry engine loads, resulting in engine separation. Hydrogen embrittlement also could cause a through-crack formation across the fittings through which an engine fire could breach into the strut, resulting in an uncontained strut fire. Actions Since AD 2013–11–14, Amendment 39–17474 (78 FR 35749, June 14, 2013) was Issued Since we issued AD 2013–11–14, Amendment 39–17474 (78 FR 35749, June 14, 2013), we have received reports that a production change installed on certain airplanes that would have eliminated the need for the inspections required by AD 2013–11–14 could not be installed; therefore, the inspection of these airplanes is now necessary. We are issuing this AD to correct the unsafe condition on these products. asabaliauskas on DSK5VPTVN1PROD with RULES Relevant Service Information We reviewed Boeing Special Attention Service Bulletin 777–54– 0028, Revision 1, dated December 10, 2013. For information on the procedures and compliance times, see this service information at https:// www.regulations.gov by searching for Docket No. FAA–2014–0654. FAA’s Determination We are issuing 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. AD Requirements Although this AD does not explicitly restate the requirements of AD 2013– 11–14, Amendment 39–17474 (78 FR 35749, June 14, 2013), this AD retains all of the requirements of AD 2013–11– 14. Those requirements are referenced in the service information identified previously, which, in turn, is referenced in paragraph (g) of this AD. This AD continues to require repetitive general visual inspections of the strut forward dry bay for the presence of hydraulic fluid, and related investigative and corrective actions (including checking drain lines for blockage due to hydraulic fluid coking, and cleaning or replacing drain lines to allow drainage) if necessary, except as discussed under ‘‘Differences Between this AD and the Service Information.’’ This AD also adds airplanes to the applicability. The phrase ‘‘related investigative actions’’ is used in this AD. ‘‘Related investigative actions’’ are follow-on actions that (1) are related to the primary actions, and (2) further investigate the nature of any condition found. Related investigative actions in an AD could include, for example, inspections. The phrase ‘‘corrective actions’’ is used in this AD. ‘‘Corrective actions’’ are actions that correct or address any condition found. Corrective actions in an AD could include, for example, repairs. Differences Between this AD and the Service Information Boeing Special Attention Service Bulletin 777–54–0028, Revision 1, dated December 10, 2013, specifies to contact the manufacturer for instructions on how to repair certain conditions, but this AD would require repairing those conditions in one of the following ways: • In accordance with a method that we approve; or • Using data that meet the certification basis of the airplane, and that have been approved by the Boeing Commercial Airplanes Organization Designation Authorization (ODA) whom we have authorized to make those findings. FAA’s Justification and Determination of the Effective Date Since the airplanes added to the applicability are not on the U.S. Register, notice and opportunity for public comment before issuing this AD are unnecessary. Therefore, we find that notice and opportunity for prior public comment are unnecessary and that good cause exists for making this amendment effective in less than 30 days. Comments Invited This AD is a final rule that involves requirements affecting flight safety, and we did not provide you with notice and an opportunity to provide your comments before it becomes effective. However, we invite you to send any written data, views, or arguments about this AD. Send your comments to an address listed under the ADDRESSES section. Include the docket number FAA–2014–0654 and directorate identifier 2014–NM–071–AD at the beginning of your comments. We specifically invite comments on the overall regulatory, economic, environmental, and energy aspects of this AD. We will consider all comments received by the closing date and may amend this 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 AD. Costs of Compliance We estimate that this AD affects 54 airplanes of U.S. registry. We estimate the following costs to comply with this AD: ESTIMATED COSTS Action Labor cost Inspection per inspection cycle 5 work-hours × $85 per hour = $425 per inspection cycle. VerDate Sep<11>2014 16:08 Oct 06, 2014 Jkt 235001 PO 00000 Frm 00014 Parts cost $0 Fmt 4700 Cost per product Cost on U.S. operators $425 per inspection cycle ....... $22,950 per inspection cycle. Sfmt 4700 E:\FR\FM\07OCR1.SGM 07OCR1 Federal Register / Vol. 79, No. 194 / Tuesday, October 7, 2014 / Rules and Regulations Since none of the newly added airplanes is on the U.S. Register, the requirements of this AD add no additional economic burden. We estimate the following costs to do any necessary actions that would be required based on the results of the inspection. We have no way of 60333 determining the number of aircraft that might need these actions: ON-CONDITION COSTS Cost per product Action Labor cost Detailed inspection ....................................................... Check drain lines (including cleaning or replacing) ..... Detailed inspection and high frequency eddy current inspection. Clean and restore sealant, primer, and leveling compound. 16 work-hours × $85 per hour = $1,360 ...................... 5 work-hours × $85 per hour = $425 ........................... 16 work-hours × $85 per hour = $1,360 ...................... $0 $0 $0 $1,360 $425 $1,360 5 work-hours × $85 per hour = $425 ........................... $0 $425 We have received no definitive data that would enable us to provide a cost estimate for the on-condition repair specified in this AD. According to the manufacturer, some of the costs of this AD may be covered under warranty, thereby reducing the cost impact on affected individuals. We do not control warranty coverage for affected individuals. As a result, we have included all costs in our cost estimate. asabaliauskas on DSK5VPTVN1PROD with RULES 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 This AD will not have federalism implications under Executive Order 13132. This AD will not have a substantial direct effect on the States, on the relationship between the national government and the States, or on the distribution of power and responsibilities among the various levels of government. For the reasons discussed above, I certify that this AD: (1) Is not a ‘‘significant regulatory action’’ under Executive Order 12866, VerDate Sep<11>2014 16:08 Oct 06, 2014 Jkt 235001 (2) Is not a ‘‘significant rule’’ under DOT Regulatory Policies and Procedures (44 FR 11034, February 26, 1979), (3) Will not affect intrastate aviation in Alaska, 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. Adoption of the Amendment Accordingly, under the authority delegated to me by the Administrator, the FAA amends part 39 of the Federal Aviation Regulations (14 CFR part 39) as follows: PART 39—AIRWORTHINESS DIRECTIVES 1. The authority citation for part 39 continues to read as follows: ■ Authority: 49 U.S.C. 106(g), 40113, 44701. § 39.13 [Amended] 2. The FAA amends § 39.13 by removing Airworthiness Directive (AD) 2013–11–14, Amendment 39–17474 (78 FR 35749, June 14, 2013), and adding the following new AD: ■ 2014–20–10 The Boeing Company: Amendment 39–17983; Docket No. FAA–2014–0654; Directorate Identifier 2014–NM–071–AD. (a) Effective Date This AD is effective October 22, 2014. (b) Affected ADs This AD replaces AD 2013–11–14, Amendment 39–17474 (78 FR 35749, June 14, 2013). (c) Applicability This AD applies to The Boeing Company Model 777–200 and –300 series airplanes, certificated in any category, equipped with Pratt & Whitney PW4000 series engines. PO 00000 Frm 00015 Fmt 4700 Sfmt 4700 Parts cost (d) Subject Air Transport Association (ATA) of America Code 54, Nacelles/pylons. (e) Unsafe Condition This AD was prompted by reports of hydraulic fluid contamination (including contamination caused by hydraulic fluid in its liquid, vapor, and/or solid (coked) form) found in the strut forward dry bay. We are issuing this AD to detect and correct hydraulic fluid contamination of the strut forward dry bay, which could result in hydrogen embrittlement of the titanium forward engine mount bulkhead fittings, and consequent inability of the fittings to carry engine loads, resulting in engine separation. Hydrogen embrittlement also could cause a through-crack formation across the fittings through which an engine fire could breach into the strut, resulting in an uncontained strut fire. (f) Compliance Comply with this AD within the compliance times specified, unless already done. (g) Inspection At the applicable times specified in paragraph 1.E., ‘‘Compliance,’’ of Boeing Special Attention Service Bulletin 777–54– 0028, Revision 1, dated December 10, 2013, except as required by paragraph (h)(1) of this AD: Do a general visual inspection for hydraulic fluid contamination (including contamination caused by hydraulic fluid in its liquid, vapor, and/or solid (coked) form) of the interior of the strut forward dry bay, and do all applicable related investigative and corrective actions (including checking drain lines for blockage due to hydraulic fluid coking, and cleaning or replacing drain lines to allow drainage, as applicable), in accordance with the Accomplishment Instructions of Boeing Special Attention Service Bulletin 777–54–0028, Revision 1, dated December 10, 2013, except as required by paragraph (h)(2) of this AD. Repeat the inspection thereafter at the times specified in paragraph 1.E., ‘‘Compliance,’’ of Boeing Special Attention Service Bulletin 777–54– 0028, Revision 1, dated December 10, 2013. Do all applicable related investigative and corrective actions at the times specified in paragraph 1.E., ‘‘Compliance,’’ of Boeing Special Attention Service Bulletin 777–54– 0028, Revision 1, dated December 10, 2013. E:\FR\FM\07OCR1.SGM 07OCR1 60334 Federal Register / Vol. 79, No. 194 / Tuesday, October 7, 2014 / Rules and Regulations (h) Exceptions to the Service Information (1) Where the Compliance Time column of paragraph 1.E., ‘‘Compliance,’’ of Boeing Special Attention Service Bulletin 777–54– 0028, Revision 1, dated December 10, 2013, refers to the compliance time ‘‘after the Revision 1 date of this service bulletin,’’ this AD requires compliance after the effective date of this AD. (2) Where Boeing Special Attention Service Bulletin 777–54–0028, Revision 1, dated December 10, 2013, specifies to contact Boeing for repair: At the applicable times specified in paragraph 1.E., ‘‘Compliance,’’ of Boeing Special Attention Service Bulletin 777–54–0028, Revision 1, dated December 10, 2013, repair, using a method approved in accordance with the procedures specified in paragraph (j) of this AD. (i) Credit for Previous Actions This paragraph provides credit for the actions specified in paragraph (g) of this AD, if those actions were performed before the effective date of this AD using Boeing Special Attention Service Bulletin 777–54–0028, dated May 25, 2012. asabaliauskas on DSK5VPTVN1PROD with RULES (j) Alternative Methods of Compliance (AMOCs) (1) The Manager, Seattle Aircraft Certification Office (ACO), FAA, has the authority to approve AMOCs for this AD, if requested using the procedures found in 14 CFR 39.19. In accordance with 14 CFR 39.19, send your request to your principal inspector or local Flight Standards District Office, as appropriate. If sending information directly to the manager of the ACO, send it to the attention of the person identified in paragraph (k) of this AD. Information may be emailed to: 9-ANM-Seattle-ACOAMOCRequests@faa.gov. (2) Before using any approved AMOC, notify your appropriate principal inspector, or lacking a principal inspector, the manager of the local flight standards district office/ certificate holding district office. (3) An AMOC that provides an acceptable level of safety may be used for any repair required by this AD if it is approved by the Boeing Commercial Airplanes Organization Designation Authorization (ODA) that has been authorized by the Manager, Seattle ACO, to make those findings. For a repair method to be approved, the repair must meet the certification basis of the airplane, and the approval must specifically refer to this AD. (4) AMOCs approved for AD 2013–11–14, Amendment 39–17474 (78 FR 35749, June 14, 2013), are approved as AMOCs for the corresponding provisions of this AD. (k) Related Information For more information about this AD, contact Kevin Nguyen, Aerospace Engineer, Propulsion Branch, ANM–140S, FAA, Seattle Aircraft Certification Office, 1601 Lind Avenue SW., Renton, WA 98057–3356; telephone: 425–917–6501; fax: 425–917– 6590; email: kevin.nguyen@faa.gov. (l) Material Incorporated by Reference (1) The Director of the Federal Register approved the incorporation by reference (IBR) of the service information listed in this VerDate Sep<11>2014 16:08 Oct 06, 2014 Jkt 235001 paragraph under 5 U.S.C. 552(a) and 1 CFR part 51. (2) You must use this service information as applicable to do the actions required by this AD, unless the AD specifies otherwise. (3) The following service information was approved for IBR on October 22, 2014. (i) Boeing Special Attention Service Bulletin 777–54–0028, Revision 1, dated December 10, 2013. (ii) Reserved. (4) For Boeing service information identified in this AD, contact Boeing Commercial Airplanes, Attention: Data & Services Management, P.O. Box 3707, MC 2H–65, Seattle, WA 98124–2207; telephone 206–544–5000, extension 1; fax 206–766– 5680; Internet https:// www.myboeingfleet.com. (5) You may view the referenced service information at the FAA, Transport Airplane Directorate, 1601 Lind Avenue SW., Renton, WA. For information on the availability of this material at the FAA, call 425–227–1221. (6) You may view this service information that is incorporated by reference at the National Archives and Records Administration (NARA). For information on the availability of this material at NARA, call 202–741–6030, or go to: https:// www.archives.gov/federal-register/cfr/ibrlocations.html. Issued in Renton, Washington, on September 23, 2014. Dionne Palermo, Acting Manager. Transport Airplane Directorate, Aircraft Certification Service. [FR Doc. 2014–23545 Filed 10–6–14; 8:45 am] BILLING CODE 4910–13–P DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION Federal Aviation Administration 14 CFR Part 39 [Docket No. FAA–2014–0757; Directorate Identifier 2014–SW–030–AD; Amendment 39–17988; AD 2014–20–15] RIN 2120–AA64 Airworthiness Directives; Airbus Helicopters, Inc. (Previously Eurocopter France) Helicopters Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), Department of Transportation (DOT). ACTION: Final rule; request for comments. AGENCY: We are superseding airworthiness directive (AD) 2012–02– 13 for certain Airbus Helicopters, Inc. (Airbus Helicopters) Model EC130B4 helicopters. AD 2012–02–13 required inspecting certain areas of the tailboom/ Fenestron junction frame (junction frame) for a crack. This AD retains the requirements of AD 2012–02–13, expands the inspection area of the SUMMARY: PO 00000 Frm 00016 Fmt 4700 Sfmt 4700 junction frame, and reduces the repetitive inspection interval. These actions are intended to detect a crack in the junction frame, which could result in detachment of the Fenestron and subsequent loss of control of the helicopter. This AD becomes effective October 22, 2014. The Director of the Federal Register approved the incorporation by reference of a certain document listed in this AD as of October 22, 2014. We must receive comments on this AD by December 8, 2014. ADDRESSES: You may send comments by any of the following methods: • Federal eRulemaking Docket: Go to https://www.regulations.gov. Follow the online instructions for sending your comments electronically. • Fax: 202–493–2251. • Mail: Send comments to the U.S. Department of Transportation, Docket Operations, M–30, West Building Ground Floor, Room W12–140, 1200 New Jersey Avenue SE., Washington, DC 20590–0001. • Hand Delivery: Deliver to the ‘‘Mail’’ address between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m., Monday through Friday, except Federal holidays. DATES: Examining the AD Docket You may examine the AD docket on the Internet at https:// www.regulations.gov or in person at the Docket Operations Office between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m., Monday through Friday, except Federal holidays. The AD docket contains this AD, the European Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) AD, any incorporated by reference service information, the economic evaluation, any comments received, and other information. The street address for the Docket Operations Office (telephone 800–647–5527) is in the ADDRESSES section. Comments will be available in the AD docket shortly after receipt. For service information identified in this AD, contact Airbus Helicopters, Inc., 2701 N. Forum Drive, Grand Prairie, TX 75052; telephone (972) 641– 0000 or (800) 232–0323; fax (972) 641– 3775; or at https:// www.airbushelicopters.com/techpub. You may review the referenced service information at the FAA, Office of the Regional Counsel, Southwest Region, 2601 Meacham Blvd., Room 663, Fort Worth, Texas 76137. FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Robert Grant, Aviation Safety Engineer, Safety Management Group, FAA, 2601 Meacham Blvd., Fort Worth, Texas 76137; telephone (817) 222–5110; email robert.grant@faa.gov. E:\FR\FM\07OCR1.SGM 07OCR1

Agencies

[Federal Register Volume 79, Number 194 (Tuesday, October 7, 2014)]
[Rules and Regulations]
[Pages 60331-60334]
From the Federal Register Online via the Government Printing Office [www.gpo.gov]
[FR Doc No: 2014-23545]


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

DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION

Federal Aviation Administration

14 CFR Part 39

[Docket No. FAA-2014-0654; Directorate Identifier 2014-NM-071-AD; 
Amendment 39-17983; AD 2014-20-10]
RIN 2120-AA64


Airworthiness Directives; The Boeing Company Airplanes

AGENCY: Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), DOT.

ACTION: Final rule; request for comments.

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

SUMMARY: We are superseding Airworthiness Directive (AD) 2013-11-14 for 
certain The Boeing Company Model 777-200 and -300 series airplanes. AD 
2013-11-14 required repetitive general visual inspections of the strut 
forward dry bay for the presence of hydraulic fluid, and related 
investigative and corrective actions (including checking drain lines 
for blockage due to hydraulic fluid coking, and cleaning or replacing 
drain lines to allow drainage) if necessary. This AD adds airplanes to 
the applicability. This AD was prompted by reports of hydraulic fluid 
contamination (including contamination caused by hydraulic fluid in its 
liquid, vapor, and/or solid (coked) form) found in the strut forward 
dry bay. We are issuing this AD to detect and correct hydraulic fluid 
contamination of the strut forward dry bay, which could result in 
hydrogen embrittlement of the titanium forward engine mount bulkhead 
fittings, and consequent inability of the fittings to carry engine 
loads, resulting in engine separation. Hydrogen embrittlement also 
could cause a through-crack formation across the fittings through which 
an engine fire could breach into the strut, resulting in an uncontained 
strut fire.

DATES: This AD is effective October 22, 2014.
    The Director of the Federal Register approved the incorporation by 
reference of a certain publication listed in this AD as of October 22, 
2014.
    We must receive any comments on this AD by November 21, 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: 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 Boeing 
Commercial Airplanes, Attention: Data & Services Management, P. O. Box 
3707, MC 2H-65, Seattle, WA 98124-2207; telephone 206-544-5000, 
extension 1; fax 206-766-5680; Internet https://www.myboeingfleet.com. 
You may view the referenced service information at the FAA, Transport 
Airplane Directorate, 1601 Lind Avenue SW., Renton, WA. For information 
on the availability of this material at the FAA, call 425-227-1221.

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-2014-
0654; 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 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: Kevin Nguyen, Aerospace Engineer,

[[Page 60332]]

Propulsion Branch, ANM-140S, FAA, Seattle Aircraft Certification 
Office, 1601 Lind Avenue SW., Renton, WA 98057-3356; telephone: 425-
917-6501; fax: 425-917-6590; email: kevin.nguyen@faa.gov.

SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION:

Discussion

    On May 24, 2013, we issued AD 2013-11-14, Amendment 39-17474 (78 FR 
35749, June 14, 2013), for certain The Boeing Company Model 777-200 and 
-300 series airplanes. AD 2013-11-14 required repetitive general visual 
inspections of the strut forward dry bay for the presence of hydraulic 
fluid, and related investigative and corrective actions (including 
checking drain lines for blockage due to hydraulic fluid coking, and 
cleaning or replacing drain lines to allow drainage) if necessary. AD 
2013-11-14 resulted from reports of hydraulic fluid contamination 
(including contamination caused by hydraulic fluid in its liquid, 
vapor, and/or solid (coked) form) found in the strut forward dry bay. 
We issued AD 2013-11-14 to detect and correct hydraulic fluid 
contamination of the strut forward dry bay, which could result in 
hydrogen embrittlement of the titanium forward engine mount bulkhead 
fittings, and consequent inability of the fittings to carry engine 
loads, resulting in engine separation. Hydrogen embrittlement also 
could cause a through-crack formation across the fittings through which 
an engine fire could breach into the strut, resulting in an uncontained 
strut fire.

Actions Since AD 2013-11-14, Amendment 39-17474 (78 FR 35749, June 14, 
2013) was Issued

    Since we issued AD 2013-11-14, Amendment 39-17474 (78 FR 35749, 
June 14, 2013), we have received reports that a production change 
installed on certain airplanes that would have eliminated the need for 
the inspections required by AD 2013-11-14 could not be installed; 
therefore, the inspection of these airplanes is now necessary. We are 
issuing this AD to correct the unsafe condition on these products.

Relevant Service Information

    We reviewed Boeing Special Attention Service Bulletin 777-54-0028, 
Revision 1, dated December 10, 2013. For information on the procedures 
and compliance times, see this service information at https://www.regulations.gov by searching for Docket No. FAA-2014-0654.

FAA's Determination

    We are issuing 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.

AD Requirements

    Although this AD does not explicitly restate the requirements of AD 
2013-11-14, Amendment 39-17474 (78 FR 35749, June 14, 2013), this AD 
retains all of the requirements of AD 2013-11-14. Those requirements 
are referenced in the service information identified previously, which, 
in turn, is referenced in paragraph (g) of this AD. This AD continues 
to require repetitive general visual inspections of the strut forward 
dry bay for the presence of hydraulic fluid, and related investigative 
and corrective actions (including checking drain lines for blockage due 
to hydraulic fluid coking, and cleaning or replacing drain lines to 
allow drainage) if necessary, except as discussed under ``Differences 
Between this AD and the Service Information.'' This AD also adds 
airplanes to the applicability.
    The phrase ``related investigative actions'' is used in this AD. 
``Related investigative actions'' are follow-on actions that (1) are 
related to the primary actions, and (2) further investigate the nature 
of any condition found. Related investigative actions in an AD could 
include, for example, inspections.
    The phrase ``corrective actions'' is used in this AD. ``Corrective 
actions'' are actions that correct or address any condition found. 
Corrective actions in an AD could include, for example, repairs.

Differences Between this AD and the Service Information

    Boeing Special Attention Service Bulletin 777-54-0028, Revision 1, 
dated December 10, 2013, specifies to contact the manufacturer for 
instructions on how to repair certain conditions, but this AD would 
require repairing those conditions in one of the following ways:
     In accordance with a method that we approve; or
     Using data that meet the certification basis of the 
airplane, and that have been approved by the Boeing Commercial 
Airplanes Organization Designation Authorization (ODA) whom we have 
authorized to make those findings.

FAA's Justification and Determination of the Effective Date

    Since the airplanes added to the applicability are not on the U.S. 
Register, notice and opportunity for public comment before issuing this 
AD are unnecessary. Therefore, we find that notice and opportunity for 
prior public comment are unnecessary and that good cause exists for 
making this amendment effective in less than 30 days.

Comments Invited

    This AD is a final rule that involves requirements affecting flight 
safety, and we did not provide you with notice and an opportunity to 
provide your comments before it becomes effective. However, we invite 
you to send any written data, views, or arguments about this AD. Send 
your comments to an address listed under the ADDRESSES section. Include 
the docket number FAA-2014-0654 and directorate identifier 2014-NM-071-
AD at the beginning of your comments. We specifically invite comments 
on the overall regulatory, economic, environmental, and energy aspects 
of this AD. We will consider all comments received by the closing date 
and may amend this 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 AD.

Costs of Compliance

    We estimate that this AD affects 54 airplanes of U.S. registry. We 
estimate the following costs to comply with this AD:

                                                 Estimated Costs
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                                                Cost on U.S.
              Action                    Labor cost        Parts cost    Cost per product          operators
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Inspection per inspection cycle..  5 work-hours x $85             $0  $425 per inspection   $22,950 per
                                    per hour = $425 per                cycle.                inspection cycle.
                                    inspection cycle.
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------


[[Page 60333]]

    Since none of the newly added airplanes is on the U.S. Register, 
the requirements of this AD add no additional economic burden.
    We estimate the following costs to do any necessary actions that 
would be required based on the results of the inspection. We have no 
way of determining the number of aircraft that might need these 
actions:

                                               On-Condition Costs
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                                                     Cost per
                    Action                                 Labor cost               Parts cost        product
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Detailed inspection...........................  16 work-hours x $85 per hour =                $0          $1,360
                                                 $1,360.
Check drain lines (including cleaning or        5 work-hours x $85 per hour =                 $0            $425
 replacing).                                     $425.
Detailed inspection and high frequency eddy     16 work-hours x $85 per hour =                $0          $1,360
 current inspection.                             $1,360.
Clean and restore sealant, primer, and          5 work-hours x $85 per hour =                 $0            $425
 leveling compound.                              $425.
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

    We have received no definitive data that would enable us to provide 
a cost estimate for the on-condition repair specified in this AD.
    According to the manufacturer, some of the costs of this AD may be 
covered under warranty, thereby reducing the cost impact on affected 
individuals. We do not control warranty coverage for affected 
individuals. As a result, we have included all costs in our cost 
estimate.

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

    This AD will not have federalism implications under Executive Order 
13132. This AD will not have a substantial direct effect on the States, 
on the relationship between the national government and the States, or 
on the distribution of power and responsibilities among the various 
levels of government.
    For the reasons discussed above, I certify that this AD:
    (1) Is not a ``significant regulatory action'' under Executive 
Order 12866,
    (2) Is not a ``significant rule'' under DOT Regulatory Policies and 
Procedures (44 FR 11034, February 26, 1979),
    (3) Will not affect intrastate aviation in Alaska, 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.

Adoption of the Amendment

    Accordingly, under the authority delegated to me by the 
Administrator, the FAA amends part 39 of the Federal Aviation 
Regulations (14 CFR part 39) as follows:

PART 39--AIRWORTHINESS DIRECTIVES

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

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


Sec.  39.13  [Amended]

0
2. The FAA amends Sec.  39.13 by removing Airworthiness Directive (AD) 
2013-11-14, Amendment 39-17474 (78 FR 35749, June 14, 2013), and adding 
the following new AD:

2014-20-10 The Boeing Company: Amendment 39-17983; Docket No. FAA-
2014-0654; Directorate Identifier 2014-NM-071-AD.

(a) Effective Date

    This AD is effective October 22, 2014.

(b) Affected ADs

    This AD replaces AD 2013-11-14, Amendment 39-17474 (78 FR 35749, 
June 14, 2013).

(c) Applicability

    This AD applies to The Boeing Company Model 777-200 and -300 
series airplanes, certificated in any category, equipped with Pratt 
& Whitney PW4000 series engines.

(d) Subject

    Air Transport Association (ATA) of America Code 54, Nacelles/
pylons.

(e) Unsafe Condition

    This AD was prompted by reports of hydraulic fluid contamination 
(including contamination caused by hydraulic fluid in its liquid, 
vapor, and/or solid (coked) form) found in the strut forward dry 
bay. We are issuing this AD to detect and correct hydraulic fluid 
contamination of the strut forward dry bay, which could result in 
hydrogen embrittlement of the titanium forward engine mount bulkhead 
fittings, and consequent inability of the fittings to carry engine 
loads, resulting in engine separation. Hydrogen embrittlement also 
could cause a through-crack formation across the fittings through 
which an engine fire could breach into the strut, resulting in an 
uncontained strut fire.

(f) Compliance

    Comply with this AD within the compliance times specified, 
unless already done.

(g) Inspection

    At the applicable times specified in paragraph 1.E., 
``Compliance,'' of Boeing Special Attention Service Bulletin 777-54-
0028, Revision 1, dated December 10, 2013, except as required by 
paragraph (h)(1) of this AD: Do a general visual inspection for 
hydraulic fluid contamination (including contamination caused by 
hydraulic fluid in its liquid, vapor, and/or solid (coked) form) of 
the interior of the strut forward dry bay, and do all applicable 
related investigative and corrective actions (including checking 
drain lines for blockage due to hydraulic fluid coking, and cleaning 
or replacing drain lines to allow drainage, as applicable), in 
accordance with the Accomplishment Instructions of Boeing Special 
Attention Service Bulletin 777-54-0028, Revision 1, dated December 
10, 2013, except as required by paragraph (h)(2) of this AD. Repeat 
the inspection thereafter at the times specified in paragraph 1.E., 
``Compliance,'' of Boeing Special Attention Service Bulletin 777-54-
0028, Revision 1, dated December 10, 2013. Do all applicable related 
investigative and corrective actions at the times specified in 
paragraph 1.E., ``Compliance,'' of Boeing Special Attention Service 
Bulletin 777-54-0028, Revision 1, dated December 10, 2013.

[[Page 60334]]

(h) Exceptions to the Service Information

    (1) Where the Compliance Time column of paragraph 1.E., 
``Compliance,'' of Boeing Special Attention Service Bulletin 777-54-
0028, Revision 1, dated December 10, 2013, refers to the compliance 
time ``after the Revision 1 date of this service bulletin,'' this AD 
requires compliance after the effective date of this AD.
    (2) Where Boeing Special Attention Service Bulletin 777-54-0028, 
Revision 1, dated December 10, 2013, specifies to contact Boeing for 
repair: At the applicable times specified in paragraph 1.E., 
``Compliance,'' of Boeing Special Attention Service Bulletin 777-54-
0028, Revision 1, dated December 10, 2013, repair, using a method 
approved in accordance with the procedures specified in paragraph 
(j) of this AD.

(i) Credit for Previous Actions

    This paragraph provides credit for the actions specified in 
paragraph (g) of this AD, if those actions were performed before the 
effective date of this AD using Boeing Special Attention Service 
Bulletin 777-54-0028, dated May 25, 2012.

 (j) Alternative Methods of Compliance (AMOCs)

    (1) The Manager, Seattle Aircraft Certification Office (ACO), 
FAA, has the authority to approve AMOCs for this AD, if requested 
using the procedures found in 14 CFR 39.19. In accordance with 14 
CFR 39.19, send your request to your principal inspector or local 
Flight Standards District Office, as appropriate. If sending 
information directly to the manager of the ACO, send it to the 
attention of the person identified in paragraph (k) of this AD. 
Information may be emailed to: 9-ANM-Seattle-ACO-AMOCRequests@faa.gov.
    (2) Before using any approved AMOC, notify your appropriate 
principal inspector, or lacking a principal inspector, the manager 
of the local flight standards district office/certificate holding 
district office.
    (3) An AMOC that provides an acceptable level of safety may be 
used for any repair required by this AD if it is approved by the 
Boeing Commercial Airplanes Organization Designation Authorization 
(ODA) that has been authorized by the Manager, Seattle ACO, to make 
those findings. For a repair method to be approved, the repair must 
meet the certification basis of the airplane, and the approval must 
specifically refer to this AD.
    (4) AMOCs approved for AD 2013-11-14, Amendment 39-17474 (78 FR 
35749, June 14, 2013), are approved as AMOCs for the corresponding 
provisions of this AD.

(k) Related Information

    For more information about this AD, contact Kevin Nguyen, 
Aerospace Engineer, Propulsion Branch, ANM-140S, FAA, Seattle 
Aircraft Certification Office, 1601 Lind Avenue SW., Renton, WA 
98057-3356; telephone: 425-917-6501; fax: 425-917-6590; email: 
kevin.nguyen@faa.gov.

(l) Material Incorporated by Reference

    (1) The Director of the Federal Register approved the 
incorporation by reference (IBR) of the service information listed 
in this paragraph under 5 U.S.C. 552(a) and 1 CFR part 51.
    (2) You must use this service information as applicable to do 
the actions required by this AD, unless the AD specifies otherwise.
    (3) The following service information was approved for IBR on 
October 22, 2014.
    (i) Boeing Special Attention Service Bulletin 777-54-0028, 
Revision 1, dated December 10, 2013.
    (ii) Reserved.
    (4) For Boeing service information identified in this AD, 
contact Boeing Commercial Airplanes, Attention: Data & Services 
Management, P.O. Box 3707, MC 2H-65, Seattle, WA 98124-2207; 
telephone 206-544-5000, extension 1; fax 206-766-5680; Internet 
https://www.myboeingfleet.com.
    (5) You may view the referenced service information at the FAA, 
Transport Airplane Directorate, 1601 Lind Avenue SW., Renton, WA. 
For information on the availability of this material at the FAA, 
call 425-227-1221.
    (6) You may view this service information that is incorporated 
by reference at the National Archives and Records Administration 
(NARA). For information on the availability of this material at 
NARA, call 202-741-6030, or go to: https://www.archives.gov/federal-register/cfr/ibr-locations.html.

    Issued in Renton, Washington, on September 23, 2014.
Dionne Palermo,
Acting Manager. Transport Airplane Directorate, Aircraft Certification 
Service.
[FR Doc. 2014-23545 Filed 10-6-14; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE 4910-13-P
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