Airworthiness Directives; The Boeing Company Airplanes, 39545-39549 [2017-16570]
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39545
Proposed Rules
Federal Register
Vol. 82, No. 160
Monday, August 21, 2017
This section of the FEDERAL REGISTER
contains notices to the public of the proposed
issuance of rules and regulations. The
purpose of these notices is to give interested
persons an opportunity to participate in the
rule making prior to the adoption of the final
rules.
DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION
Federal Aviation Administration
14 CFR Part 39
[Docket No. FAA–2016–4219; Product
Identifier 2015–NM–169–AD]
RIN 2120–AA64
Airworthiness Directives; The Boeing
Company Airplanes
Federal Aviation
Administration (FAA), DOT.
ACTION: Supplemental notice of
proposed rulemaking (SNPRM);
reopening of comment period.
AGENCY:
We are revising an earlier
proposal for certain The Boeing
Company Model 777 airplanes. This
action revises the notice of proposed
rulemaking (NPRM) by adding an
inspection to determine a part number
and to incorporate an airworthiness
limitation (AWL) into the maintenance
or inspection program. This action also
revises the NPRM by specifying a new
version of the airline information
management system (AIMS) software for
airplanes equipped with AIMS–2
software. We are proposing this
Airworthiness Directive (AD) to address
the unsafe condition on these products.
Since these actions impose an
additional burden over that proposed in
the NPRM, we are reopening the
comment period to allow the public the
chance to comment on these proposed
changes.
DATES: The comment period for the
NPRM published in the Federal
Register on March 8, 2016 (81 FR
12039), is reopened.
We must receive comments on this
SNPRM by October 5, 2017.
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.
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SUMMARY:
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• 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 SNPRM, contact Boeing
Commercial Airplanes, Attention:
Contractual & Data Services (C&DS),
2600 Westminster Blvd., MC 110 SK57,
Seal Beach, CA 90740–5600; telephone
562 797 1717; Internet https://
www.myboeingfleet.com. You may view
this referenced service information at
the FAA, Transport Standards Branch,
1601 Lind Avenue SW., Renton, WA.
For information on the availability of
this material at the FAA, call 425–227–
1221. It is also available on the Internet
at https://www.regulations.gov by
searching for and locating Docket No.
FAA–2016–4219.
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–2016–
4219; 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:
David Lee, Aerospace Engineer,
Propulsion Section, FAA, Seattle ACO
Branch, 1601 Lind Avenue SW., Renton,
WA 98057–3356; phone: 425–917–6497;
fax: 425–917–6590; email: david.a.lee@
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–
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2016–4219; Product Identifier 2015–
NM–169–AD’’ at the beginning of your
comments. We specifically invite
comments on the overall regulatory,
economic, environmental, and energy
aspects of this SNPRM. We will
consider all comments received by the
closing date and may amend this
SNPRM 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 issued an NPRM to amend 14 CFR
part 39 by adding an AD that would
apply to certain The Boeing Company
Model 777 airplanes. The NPRM
published in the Federal Register on
March 8, 2016 (81 FR 12039). The
NPRM was prompted by reports of
latently failed fuel shutoff valves
discovered during fuel filter
replacement. The NPRM proposed to
require replacing certain motor-operated
valve (MOV) actuators with new MOV
actuators on both AIMS–1- and AIMS–
2-equipped airplanes, or installing a
newer software version on AIMS–2equipped airplanes.
Actions Since the NPRM Was Issued
Since we issued the NPRM, several
operators commented on issues with the
installation of AIMS–2 Blockpoint
V17.1 software on certain airplane
configurations and under certain
operating conditions. Boeing recently
released version 17A of this software to
address these issues. We have
determined that it is necessary to
mandate the use of AIMS–2 Blockpoint
version 17A to address the identified
unsafe condition for the affected
airplanes.
In addition, on November 17, 2016,
we approved an alternative method of
compliance (AMOC) Notice 777–
28A0034 AMOC 02, via FAA letter
140S–16–180. This AMOC identified
changes to Boeing Service Bulletin 777–
28A0034, Revision 3, dated September
25, 2015, which corrects the description
of Group 4 airplanes. This AMOC, when
combined with the previously approved
AMOCs for Boeing Service Bulletin
777–28A0034, Revision 3, dated
September 25, 2015, applies to the
accomplishment of paragraphs (g), (h),
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(k), and (l) of AD 2013–05–03,
Amendment 39–17375 (78 FR 17290,
March 21, 2013) (‘‘AD 2013–05–03’’),
which requires inspecting and replacing
certain MOV actuators in the main and
center fuel tanks on certain The Boeing
Company Model 777–200, –200LR,
–300, and –300ER series airplanes.
In the NPRM, we included costs for
doing an inspection to identify the part
number of the MOV actuators. However,
we inadvertently left out the
requirement for this inspection in the
NPRM. We have added this requirement
to paragraph (g) of this proposed AD.
Comments
We gave the public the opportunity to
comment on the NPRM. The following
presents the comments received on the
NPRM and the FAA’s response to each
comment.
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Support for the NPRM
The Air Line Pilots Association,
International, expressed support for the
NPRM.
Request To Terminate Part of an Earlier
AD
Boeing, All Nippon Airways (ANA),
and United Airlines (UAL) all requested
that we include a paragraph stating that
the proposed AD (in the NPRM) is
terminating action to all requirements of
AD 2015–19–01, Amendment 39–18264
(80 FR 55521, September 16, 2015) (‘‘AD
2015–19–01’’), which required operators
to revise the maintenance or inspection
program, as applicable, to add
airworthiness limitation 28–AWL–
MOV. Boeing stated that AD 2015–19–
01 also required repetitive inspections
of MOVs for Boeing Model 777
airplanes with fuel spar actuators
having certain part numbers. Boeing
noted that the proposed AD (in the
NPRM) would require replacing those
fuel spar actuators or upgrading the
AIMS–2 software. Boeing concluded
that by complying with the actions of
the proposed AD (in the NPRM),
operators are also complying with all
requirements of AD 2015–19–01.
We agree with the commenters’
request to specify a condition that
would terminate the requirements of AD
2015–19–01. However, we find it
necessary to add another step to this
proposed AD before the requirements of
AD 2015–19–01 can be terminated. We
understand that operators typically
manage a single maintenance or
inspection program for their entire
fleets, rather than for individual
airplanes. If operators are allowed to
remove the AWL mandated by AD
2015–19–01 before the actions in the
proposed AD are completed on the
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entire fleet, the AWL and its associated
repetitive inspections could be
inadvertently removed from individual
airplanes in the fleet before the unsafe
condition is mitigated.
In addition, we consider that an
additional action is necessary to prevent
an airplane from being modified to a
pre-AD condition. This proposed AD
would prohibit the installation of MOV
actuator P/N MA30A1001 (Boeing P/N
S343T003–66) or MA20A2027 (Boeing
P/N S343T003–56) at the fuel spar valve
locations. However, these two part
numbers can still be installed at other
locations (as their failure is of economic
impact only), and could be
inadvertently re-installed at the fuel
spar valve locations. To address this
concern, we have added paragraph (h)
to this AD to specify a requirement for
the incorporation of a new AWL. Other
than the prohibition, there is no
maintenance action associated with the
new AWL.
The incorporation of the new AWL
would be required after the
accomplishment of the actions specified
by paragraph (g) of the proposed AD on
all affected airplanes in an operator’s
fleet, but within 24 months after the
effective date of this AD. If an operator
accomplishes all required actions on all
affected airplanes in the fleet before the
end of the 24-month compliance time,
the operator has an option to
incorporate the new AWL at that time,
or at a later time, but before the end of
the 24-month compliance time. This
option is intended to allow continued
operation of an airplane if an airplane
having the pre-AD configuration is
introduced into an operator’s fleet
before the end of the compliance time,
but after the accomplishment of the
required actions on all other airplanes
in the fleet.
We have added paragraphs (h)
(specifying incorporation of the AWL)
and (i) (stating that accomplishing the
actions in this AD terminates all
requirements of AD 2015–19–01) to this
proposed AD and redesignated
subsequent paragraphs accordingly. We
have also revised paragraph (b) of this
proposed AD to indicate that this
proposed AD would affect AD 2015–19–
01.
Request To Allow Repetitive
Inspections as an AMOC to Parts
Replacement
ANA requested that we allow the
repetitive inspections specified in AD
2015–19–01 in lieu of the actions
specified in paragraph (g) of the
proposed AD (in the NPRM). ANA
stated that both AD 2015–19–01 and the
proposed AD (in the NPRM) can detect
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and correct latent failure of the fuel
shutoff valve, and the purpose of both
ADs is the same.
We disagree with the request because
the actions in AD 2015–19–01 were
intended to mitigate the unsafe
condition while a permanent solution
was being developed. A permanent
design modification is preferable to
ongoing inspections, since it eliminates
the potential latency failure period
between inspections. The actions
required by this proposed AD are
intended to eliminate the unsafe
condition. We have not changed this
proposed AD regarding this issue.
Request To Remove or Revise Service
Information
American Airlines (AAL) and Japan
Airlines (JAL) requested that we revise
the proposed AD (in the NPRM) to allow
installation of Version 17.1 or a later
approved version of the AIMS–2
software, or to remove the requirement
to update the AIMS–2 software in
accordance with Boeing Service Bulletin
777–31–0227, Revision 1, dated August
12, 2015. JAL noted that incorporation
of this service information could cause
the navigation and multifunction
displays to momentarily go blank during
takeoff and landing. AAL added that
incorporation of this service information
on airplanes equipped with VHF radios
only capable of Mode 0 will make the
VHF datalink inoperable. AAL noted
that the proposed solution from Boeing
is to replace the VHF radio, creating an
additional financial burden. AAL stated
that Boeing was planning on addressing
this issue through a service bulletin
related to AIMS–2 Blockpoint Version
17A. AAL also asked for clarification
regarding what constitutes a later
approved software version.
We agree with the commenters’
request. The installation of AIMS–2
Blockpoint Version 17.1 on certain
airplane configurations, and under
certain operating conditions, could
allow the issues noted by AAL and JAL.
Since we issued the NPRM, Boeing
released Service Bulletin 777–31–0218,
dated September 8, 2016, which
incorporates AIMS–2 Blockpoint
Version 17A to address these issues. We
have included this new service
information in this SNPRM and revised
paragraph (g)(2)(ii) of this proposed AD
to refer to the new software version and
service information. We have also
revised paragraph (i) of this proposed
AD to include credit for the installation
of AIMS–2 Blockpoint Version 17 or
17.1, since this software is one way to
prevent the latent failure of the MOV
actuator and works under most airplane
configurations and operating conditions.
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We have also revised paragraph (g)(2)(ii)
of this proposed AD to clarify what
qualifies as a later approved software
version.
Request To Provide Credit
UAL requested that paragraph (h) of
the proposed AD (in the NPRM) be
revised to provide credit for actions
accomplished in accordance with
Boeing Service Bulletin 777–28A0034,
Revision 3, dated September 25, 2015.
UAL provided no justification for its
request.
We disagree because we find the
requested change unnecessary.
Paragraph (f) of this proposed AD states
that the actions must be completed
within the compliance times specified,
‘‘unless already done.’’ Therefore, if the
actions in paragraph (g)(1) or (g)(2)(i) of
this proposed AD are already completed
in accordance with Boeing Service
Bulletin 777–28A0034, Revision 3,
dated September 25, 2015, no credit is
needed for these actions. The purpose of
paragraph (j) of this proposed AD
(paragraph (h) in the proposed AD (in
the NPRM)) is to provide credit for
actions completed on or before the
effective date of the AD using earlier
versions of service information. We
have not changed this proposed AD
regarding this issue.
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Request for Approval of an AMOC to
AD 2013–05–03
ANA requested that we allow the
actions of the proposed AD (in the
NPRM) to be an approved AMOC to AD
2013–05–03. ANA stated that AD 2013–
05–03 requires operators to replace an
MOV actuator with a new or serviceable
actuator having part number (P/N)
MA30A1001 or with an MOV actuator
meeting certain criteria. ANA noted that
the proposed AD (in the NPRM) would
require replacing MOV actuators with
P/N MA30A1017, a different
requirement than in AD 2013–05–03.
We disagree with the commenter’s
request. We have already approved the
use of Boeing Service Bulletin 777–
28A0034, Revision 3, dated September
25, 2015, as an AMOC to the
requirements of paragraph (h) of AD
2013–05–03 to replace an affected MOV
actuator, as stated therein. Therefore, it
is not necessary to restate this AMOC in
this proposed AD. We have not changed
this proposed AD regarding this issue.
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Request To Extend the Compliance
Time
Related Service Information Under 1
CFR Part 51
ANA and JAL both requested that we
extend the compliance time of the
proposed AD (in the NPRM). JAL
requested that the compliance time be
extended from 24 months to 60 months
because AD 2016–04–20, Amendment
39–18414 (81 FR 10460, March 1, 2016)
(‘‘AD 2016–04–20’’) and AD 2016–21–
05, Amendment 39–18686 (81 FR
79384, November 14, 2016) (‘‘AD 2016–
21–05’’) also require the installation of
MOV actuator P/N MA30A1017 (at
different locations on the airplane and/
or different airplane models), but allow
60 months for the installation. ANA
requested that the compliance time be
extended to 8 years, because Boeing
Service Bulletin 737–28–1314 specifies
installation of the same MOV actuator
P/N MA30A1017 (on different airplane
models) with a compliance time of 8
years. ANA stated that because the same
part is used on Boeing Model 737, 767,
and 777 airplanes, the vendor will not
be able to supply enough MOV actuators
to complete the proposed actions within
24 months on Model 777 airplanes.
We disagree with the requests. The
compliance time of 24 months was
coordinated with Boeing as a practical
compliance time for Model 777
airplanes. We may consider providing
AMOC approval if the Boeing vendor of
the MOV actuators is unable to provide
an adequate supply for operators to
comply with these actions in the
applicable compliance times.
Further, AD 2013–05–03 requires the
removal of MOV actuator P/N
MA20A1001–1 (S343T003–39) on both
AIMS–1 and AIMS–2 airplanes, with
the exception that the MOV actuator
does not have to be removed from the
fuel spar valve locations on airplanes on
which AIMS–1 is installed. Although
AD 2016–04–20 and AD 2016–21–05
provide instructions to replace the fuel
spar valve, they do not require that the
MOV actuator only be replaced with
P/N MA30A1017. MOV actuators with
P/N MA20A2027 (S343T003–56) and
MA30A1001 (S343T003–66) have been
determined to be prone to latent failure,
so unless the airplane is equipped with
AIMS–2 Blockpoint Version 17 or later
(which mitigates the unsafe condition),
we are mandating that only P/N
MA30A1017 (S343T003–76) be installed
at the left and right fuel spar valve
locations. We have not changed this
proposed AD regarding this issue.
We reviewed Boeing Service Bulletin
777–28A0034, Revision 3, dated
September 25, 2015. This service
information describes procedures for,
among other things, inspection and
replacement of the main and center fuel
tank valve actuators.
We also reviewed Boeing Service
Bulletin 777–31–0218, dated September
8, 2016. This service information
describes procedures for installing the
AIMS–2, Blockpoint Version 17A
software upgrade.
This service information is reasonably
available because the interested parties
have access to it through their normal
course of business or by the means
identified in the ADDRESSES section.
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FAA’s Determination
We are proposing this SNPRM
because we evaluated all the relevant
information and determined the unsafe
condition described previously is likely
to exist or develop in other products of
the same type design. Certain changes
described above expand the scope of the
NPRM. As a result, we have determined
that it is necessary to reopen the
comment period to provide additional
opportunity for the public to comment
on this SNPRM.
Proposed Requirements of This SNPRM
This SNPRM would require
accomplishing the actions specified in
the service information described
previously, except as discussed under
‘‘Differences Between this SNPRM and
the Service Information.’’ For
information on the procedures and
compliance times, see this service
information at https://
www.regulations.gov by searching for
and locating Docket No. FAA–2016–
4219.
Differences Between This SNPRM and
the Service Information
We have excluded line numbers 1165
and subsequent from the applicability
section of this proposed AD as these
airplanes were manufactured with
AIMS–2 Blockpoint Version 17 or
higher installed, and are not affected by
the unsafe condition.
Costs of Compliance
We estimate that this proposed AD
affects 154 airplanes of U.S. registry. We
estimate the following costs to comply
with this proposed AD:
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ESTIMATED COSTS
Cost per
product
Labor cost
Inspection ..................................................
Replacement of two MOV actuators without fuel tank access.
AIMS–2, Blockpoint Version 17A, installation.
28–AWL–MOVA incorporation ..................
1 work-hour × $85 per hour = $85 ...........
5 work-hours × $85 per hour = $425 .......
$0
12,000
$85
12,425
7 work-hours × $85 per hour = $595 .......
0
595
1 work-hour × $85 per hour = $85 ...........
0
85
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.
This proposed AD is issued in
accordance with authority delegated by
the Executive Director, Aircraft
Certification Service, as authorized by
FAA Order 8000.51C. In accordance
with that order, issuance of ADs is
normally a function of the Compliance
and Airworthiness Division, but during
this transition period, the Executive
Director has delegated the authority to
issue ADs applicable to transport
category airplanes to the Director of the
System Oversight Division.
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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
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Parts cost
Cost on U.S.
operators
Action
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.
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):
■
The Boeing Company: Docket No. FAA–
2016–4219; Product Identifier 2015–
NM–169–AD.
(a) Comments Due Date
We must receive comments by October 5,
2017.
(b) Affected ADs
This AD affects AD 2015–19–01,
Amendment 39–18264 (80 FR 55521,
September 16, 2015).
(c) Applicability
This AD applies to The Boeing Company
Model 777–200, 777–200LR, 777–300, 777–
300ER, and 777F series airplanes, certificated
in any category, excluding line numbers 1165
and subsequent.
(d) Subject
Air Transport Association (ATA) of
America Code 28, Fuel.
(e) Unsafe Condition
This AD was prompted by reports of
latently failed fuel shutoff valves discovered
during fuel filter replacement. We are issuing
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$13,090.
Up to $422,450.
Up to $71,400.
$13,090.
this AD to prevent latent failure of the fuel
shutoff valve to the engine, which could
result in the inability to terminate fuel flow
to the engine and, in the case of an engine
fire, could lead to wing failure.
(f) Compliance
Comply with this AD within the
compliance times specified, unless already
done.
(g) Inspection and Replacement
Within 24 months after the effective date
of this AD: Do an inspection to determine the
part numbers (P/N) of the motor-operated
valve (MOV) actuators of the fuel shutoff
valves for the left and right engines, in
accordance with the Accomplishment
Instructions of Boeing Service Bulletin 777–
28A0034, Revision 3, dated September 25,
2015. A review of airplane maintenance
records is acceptable in lieu of this
inspection if the part number can be
conclusively determined from that review. If
any MOV actuator not having P/N
MA30A1017 (Boeing P/N S343T003–76), is
found, do the actions in paragraphs (g)(1) or
(g)(2) of this AD, as applicable.
(1) For airplanes having airplane
information management system (AIMS) 1
installed: Within 24 months after the
effective date of this AD, install new engine
fuel spar MOV actuators having part number
(P/N) MA30A1017, in accordance with the
Accomplishment Instructions of Boeing
Service Bulletin 777–28A0034, Revision 3,
dated September 25, 2015.
(2) For airplanes having AIMS–2,
Blockpoint Version 16 or earlier, installed:
Within 24 months after the effective date of
this AD, do the actions specified in
paragraph (g)(2)(i) or (g)(2)(ii) of this AD.
(i) Install new engine fuel spar MOV
actuators having P/N MA30A1017, in
accordance with the Accomplishment
Instructions of Boeing Service Bulletin 777–
28A0034, Revision 3, dated September 25,
2015.
(ii) Install AIMS–2, Blockpoint Version
17A or later-approved version, in accordance
with the Accomplishment Instructions of
Boeing Service Bulletin 777–31–0218, dated
September 8, 2016. Later-approved versions
of the software are only those Boeing
software versions that are approved as a
replacement for AIMS–2, Blockpoint Version
17A, and approved as part of the type design
by the FAA after issuance of Boeing Service
Bulletin 777–31–0218, dated September 8,
2016.
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(h) Revision of Maintenance or Inspection
Program
Within 24 months after the effective date
of this AD, and after accomplishing the
actions required by paragraph (g) of this AD
on all airplanes in an operator’s fleet, as
applicable, revise the maintenance or
inspection program, as applicable, to add
Airworthiness Limitation (AWL) 28–AWL–
39549
MOVA by incorporating the information
specified in figure 1 to paragraph (h) of this
AD into the Airworthiness Limitations
Section of the Instructions for Continued
Airworthiness.
FIGURE 1 TO PARAGRAPH (h) OF THIS AD—AWL FOR ENGINE FUEL SHUTOFF VALVE (FUEL SPAR VALVE) ACTUATOR
INSTALLATION PROHIBITION
AWL No.
Applicability
Description
28–AWL–MOVA ..............................
(1) Airplanes with AIMS–1 system,
or (2) Airplanes with AIMS–2
BlockPoint (BP) v 16 and earlier
software.
Motor Operator Valve (MOV) Actuator—Prohibition of Installation of
Specific Part Numbers.
Installation of MOV actuator part number (P/N) MA30A1001 (Boeing
P/N S343T003–66) and P/N MA20A2027 (Boeing P/N S343T003–
56) is prohibited at the following positions:
1. Left engine fuel shutoff spar valve position.
2. Right engine fuel shutoff spar valve position.
(i) Terminating Action for AD 2015–19–01
Accomplishment of the actions required by
paragraphs (g) and (h) of this AD terminates
all requirements of AD 2015–19–01.
asabaliauskas on DSKBBXCHB2PROD with PROPOSALS
(j) Credit for Previous Actions
This paragraph provides credit for actions
specified in paragraph (g)(2)(ii) of this AD, if
AIMS–2 Blockpoint Version 17 or 17.1 was
installed before the effective date of this AD
either in production or using Boeing Special
Attention Service Bulletin 777–31–0227,
dated November 7, 2014; or Revision 1, dated
August 12, 2015.
(k) Alternative Methods of Compliance
(AMOCs)
(1) The Manager, Seattle ACO Branch,
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
certification office, send it to the attention of
the person identified in paragraph (l)(1) of
this AD. Information may be emailed to: 9ANM-Seattle-ACO-AMOC-Requests@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,
modification, or alteration 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
Branch, to make those findings. To be
approved, the repair method, modification
deviation, or alteration deviation must meet
the certification basis of the airplane, and the
approval must specifically refer to this AD.
(4) For service information that contains
steps that are labeled as Required for
Compliance (RC), the provisions of
paragraphs (k)(4)(i) and (k)(4)(ii) of this AD
apply.
(i) The steps labeled as RC, including
substeps under an RC step and any figures
identified in an RC step, must be done to
comply with the AD. An AMOC is required
VerDate Sep<11>2014
17:21 Aug 18, 2017
Jkt 241001
for any deviations to RC steps, including
substeps and identified figures.
(ii) Steps not labeled as RC may be
deviated from using accepted methods in
accordance with the operator’s maintenance
or inspection program without obtaining
approval of an AMOC, provided the RC steps,
including substeps and identified figures, can
still be done as specified, and the airplane
can be put back in an airworthy condition
(l) Related Information
(1) For more information about this AD,
contact David Lee, Aerospace Engineer,
Propulsion Section, FAA, Seattle ACO
Branch, 1601 Lind Avenue SW., Renton, WA
98057–3356; phone: 425–917–6497; fax: 425–
917–6590; email: david.a.lee@faa.gov.
(2) For service information identified in
this AD, contact Boeing Commercial
Airplanes, Attention: Contractual & Data
Services (C&DS), 2600 Westminster Blvd.,
MC 110 SK57, Seal Beach, CA 90740–5600;
telephone 562 797 1717; Internet https://
www.myboeingfleet.com. You may view this
referenced service information at the FAA,
Transport Standards Branch, 1601 Lind
Avenue SW., Renton, WA. For information
on the availability of this material at the
FAA, call 425–227–1221.
Issued in Renton, Washington, on July 28,
2017.
John P. Piccola, Jr.,
Acting Director, System Oversight Division,
Aircraft Certification Service.
[FR Doc. 2017–16570 Filed 8–18–17; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE 4910–13–P
DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION
Federal Aviation Administration
14 CFR Part 71
[Docket No. FAA–2016–9545; Airspace
Docket No. 16–AGL–33]
Proposed Establishment of Class E
Airspace; Rosebud, SD
Federal Aviation
Administration (FAA), DOT.
AGENCY:
PO 00000
Frm 00005
Fmt 4702
Sfmt 4702
Notice of proposed rulemaking
(NPRM).
ACTION:
This action proposes to
establish Class E airspace at Rosebud,
SD. Controlled airspace is necessary to
accommodate new special instrument
approach procedures developed at
Rosebud Sioux Tribal Airport, for the
safety and management of instrument
flight rules (IFR) operations at the
airport.
SUMMARY:
Comments must be received on
or before October 5, 2017.
ADDRESSES: Send comments on this
proposal to the U.S. Department of
Transportation, Docket Operations,
West Building Ground Floor, Room
W12–140, 1200 New Jersey Avenue SE.,
Washington, DC 20590; telephone (202)
366–9826, or (800) 647–5527. You must
identify FAA Docket No. FAA–20169545; Airspace Docket No. 16–AGL–33,
at the beginning of your comments. You
may also submit comments through the
Internet at https://www.regulations.gov.
You may review the public docket
containing the proposal, any comments
received, and any final disposition in
person in the Dockets Office between
9:00 a.m. and 5:00 p.m., Monday
through Friday, except federal holidays.
FAA Order 7400.11A, Airspace
Designations and Reporting Points, and
subsequent amendments can be viewed
online at https://www.faa.gov/air_traffic/
publications/. For further information,
you can contact the Airspace Policy
Group, Federal Aviation
Administration, 800 Independence
Avenue SW., Washington, DC 20591;
telephone: (202) 267–8783. The Order is
also available for inspection at the
National Archives and Records
Administration (NARA). For
information on the availability of FAA
Order 7400.11A at NARA, call (202)
741–6030, or go to https://
www.archives.gov/federal_register/
DATES:
E:\FR\FM\21AUP1.SGM
21AUP1
Agencies
[Federal Register Volume 82, Number 160 (Monday, August 21, 2017)]
[Proposed Rules]
[Pages 39545-39549]
From the Federal Register Online via the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]
[FR Doc No: 2017-16570]
========================================================================
Proposed Rules
Federal Register
________________________________________________________________________
This section of the FEDERAL REGISTER contains notices to the public of
the proposed issuance of rules and regulations. The purpose of these
notices is to give interested persons an opportunity to participate in
the rule making prior to the adoption of the final rules.
========================================================================
Federal Register / Vol. 82, No. 160 / Monday, August 21, 2017 /
Proposed Rules
[[Page 39545]]
DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION
Federal Aviation Administration
14 CFR Part 39
[Docket No. FAA-2016-4219; Product Identifier 2015-NM-169-AD]
RIN 2120-AA64
Airworthiness Directives; The Boeing Company Airplanes
AGENCY: Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), DOT.
ACTION: Supplemental notice of proposed rulemaking (SNPRM); reopening
of comment period.
-----------------------------------------------------------------------
SUMMARY: We are revising an earlier proposal for certain The Boeing
Company Model 777 airplanes. This action revises the notice of proposed
rulemaking (NPRM) by adding an inspection to determine a part number
and to incorporate an airworthiness limitation (AWL) into the
maintenance or inspection program. This action also revises the NPRM by
specifying a new version of the airline information management system
(AIMS) software for airplanes equipped with AIMS-2 software. We are
proposing this Airworthiness Directive (AD) to address the unsafe
condition on these products. Since these actions impose an additional
burden over that proposed in the NPRM, we are reopening the comment
period to allow the public the chance to comment on these proposed
changes.
DATES: The comment period for the NPRM published in the Federal
Register on March 8, 2016 (81 FR 12039), is reopened.
We must receive comments on this SNPRM by October 5, 2017.
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 SNPRM, contact Boeing
Commercial Airplanes, Attention: Contractual & Data Services (C&DS),
2600 Westminster Blvd., MC 110 SK57, Seal Beach, CA 90740-5600;
telephone 562 797 1717; Internet https://www.myboeingfleet.com. You may
view this referenced service information at the FAA, Transport
Standards Branch, 1601 Lind Avenue SW., Renton, WA. For information on
the availability of this material at the FAA, call 425-227-1221. It is
also available on the Internet at https://www.regulations.gov by
searching for and locating Docket No. FAA-2016-4219.
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-2016-
4219; 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: David Lee, Aerospace Engineer,
Propulsion Section, FAA, Seattle ACO Branch, 1601 Lind Avenue SW.,
Renton, WA 98057-3356; phone: 425-917-6497; fax: 425-917-6590; email:
david.a.lee@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-2016-4219;
Product Identifier 2015-NM-169-AD'' at the beginning of your comments.
We specifically invite comments on the overall regulatory, economic,
environmental, and energy aspects of this SNPRM. We will consider all
comments received by the closing date and may amend this SNPRM 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 issued an NPRM to amend 14 CFR part 39 by adding an AD that
would apply to certain The Boeing Company Model 777 airplanes. The NPRM
published in the Federal Register on March 8, 2016 (81 FR 12039). The
NPRM was prompted by reports of latently failed fuel shutoff valves
discovered during fuel filter replacement. The NPRM proposed to require
replacing certain motor-operated valve (MOV) actuators with new MOV
actuators on both AIMS-1- and AIMS-2-equipped airplanes, or installing
a newer software version on AIMS-2-equipped airplanes.
Actions Since the NPRM Was Issued
Since we issued the NPRM, several operators commented on issues
with the installation of AIMS-2 Blockpoint V17.1 software on certain
airplane configurations and under certain operating conditions. Boeing
recently released version 17A of this software to address these issues.
We have determined that it is necessary to mandate the use of AIMS-2
Blockpoint version 17A to address the identified unsafe condition for
the affected airplanes.
In addition, on November 17, 2016, we approved an alternative
method of compliance (AMOC) Notice 777-28A0034 AMOC 02, via FAA letter
140S-16-180. This AMOC identified changes to Boeing Service Bulletin
777-28A0034, Revision 3, dated September 25, 2015, which corrects the
description of Group 4 airplanes. This AMOC, when combined with the
previously approved AMOCs for Boeing Service Bulletin 777-28A0034,
Revision 3, dated September 25, 2015, applies to the accomplishment of
paragraphs (g), (h),
[[Page 39546]]
(k), and (l) of AD 2013-05-03, Amendment 39-17375 (78 FR 17290, March
21, 2013) (``AD 2013-05-03''), which requires inspecting and replacing
certain MOV actuators in the main and center fuel tanks on certain The
Boeing Company Model 777-200, -200LR, -300, and -300ER series
airplanes.
In the NPRM, we included costs for doing an inspection to identify
the part number of the MOV actuators. However, we inadvertently left
out the requirement for this inspection in the NPRM. We have added this
requirement to paragraph (g) of this proposed AD.
Comments
We gave the public the opportunity to comment on the NPRM. The
following presents the comments received on the NPRM and the FAA's
response to each comment.
Support for the NPRM
The Air Line Pilots Association, International, expressed support
for the NPRM.
Request To Terminate Part of an Earlier AD
Boeing, All Nippon Airways (ANA), and United Airlines (UAL) all
requested that we include a paragraph stating that the proposed AD (in
the NPRM) is terminating action to all requirements of AD 2015-19-01,
Amendment 39-18264 (80 FR 55521, September 16, 2015) (``AD 2015-19-
01''), which required operators to revise the maintenance or inspection
program, as applicable, to add airworthiness limitation 28-AWL-MOV.
Boeing stated that AD 2015-19-01 also required repetitive inspections
of MOVs for Boeing Model 777 airplanes with fuel spar actuators having
certain part numbers. Boeing noted that the proposed AD (in the NPRM)
would require replacing those fuel spar actuators or upgrading the
AIMS-2 software. Boeing concluded that by complying with the actions of
the proposed AD (in the NPRM), operators are also complying with all
requirements of AD 2015-19-01.
We agree with the commenters' request to specify a condition that
would terminate the requirements of AD 2015-19-01. However, we find it
necessary to add another step to this proposed AD before the
requirements of AD 2015-19-01 can be terminated. We understand that
operators typically manage a single maintenance or inspection program
for their entire fleets, rather than for individual airplanes. If
operators are allowed to remove the AWL mandated by AD 2015-19-01
before the actions in the proposed AD are completed on the entire
fleet, the AWL and its associated repetitive inspections could be
inadvertently removed from individual airplanes in the fleet before the
unsafe condition is mitigated.
In addition, we consider that an additional action is necessary to
prevent an airplane from being modified to a pre-AD condition. This
proposed AD would prohibit the installation of MOV actuator P/N
MA30A1001 (Boeing P/N S343T003-66) or MA20A2027 (Boeing P/N S343T003-
56) at the fuel spar valve locations. However, these two part numbers
can still be installed at other locations (as their failure is of
economic impact only), and could be inadvertently re-installed at the
fuel spar valve locations. To address this concern, we have added
paragraph (h) to this AD to specify a requirement for the incorporation
of a new AWL. Other than the prohibition, there is no maintenance
action associated with the new AWL.
The incorporation of the new AWL would be required after the
accomplishment of the actions specified by paragraph (g) of the
proposed AD on all affected airplanes in an operator's fleet, but
within 24 months after the effective date of this AD. If an operator
accomplishes all required actions on all affected airplanes in the
fleet before the end of the 24-month compliance time, the operator has
an option to incorporate the new AWL at that time, or at a later time,
but before the end of the 24-month compliance time. This option is
intended to allow continued operation of an airplane if an airplane
having the pre-AD configuration is introduced into an operator's fleet
before the end of the compliance time, but after the accomplishment of
the required actions on all other airplanes in the fleet.
We have added paragraphs (h) (specifying incorporation of the AWL)
and (i) (stating that accomplishing the actions in this AD terminates
all requirements of AD 2015-19-01) to this proposed AD and redesignated
subsequent paragraphs accordingly. We have also revised paragraph (b)
of this proposed AD to indicate that this proposed AD would affect AD
2015-19-01.
Request To Allow Repetitive Inspections as an AMOC to Parts Replacement
ANA requested that we allow the repetitive inspections specified in
AD 2015-19-01 in lieu of the actions specified in paragraph (g) of the
proposed AD (in the NPRM). ANA stated that both AD 2015-19-01 and the
proposed AD (in the NPRM) can detect and correct latent failure of the
fuel shutoff valve, and the purpose of both ADs is the same.
We disagree with the request because the actions in AD 2015-19-01
were intended to mitigate the unsafe condition while a permanent
solution was being developed. A permanent design modification is
preferable to ongoing inspections, since it eliminates the potential
latency failure period between inspections. The actions required by
this proposed AD are intended to eliminate the unsafe condition. We
have not changed this proposed AD regarding this issue.
Request To Remove or Revise Service Information
American Airlines (AAL) and Japan Airlines (JAL) requested that we
revise the proposed AD (in the NPRM) to allow installation of Version
17.1 or a later approved version of the AIMS-2 software, or to remove
the requirement to update the AIMS-2 software in accordance with Boeing
Service Bulletin 777-31-0227, Revision 1, dated August 12, 2015. JAL
noted that incorporation of this service information could cause the
navigation and multifunction displays to momentarily go blank during
takeoff and landing. AAL added that incorporation of this service
information on airplanes equipped with VHF radios only capable of Mode
0 will make the VHF datalink inoperable. AAL noted that the proposed
solution from Boeing is to replace the VHF radio, creating an
additional financial burden. AAL stated that Boeing was planning on
addressing this issue through a service bulletin related to AIMS-2
Blockpoint Version 17A. AAL also asked for clarification regarding what
constitutes a later approved software version.
We agree with the commenters' request. The installation of AIMS-2
Blockpoint Version 17.1 on certain airplane configurations, and under
certain operating conditions, could allow the issues noted by AAL and
JAL. Since we issued the NPRM, Boeing released Service Bulletin 777-31-
0218, dated September 8, 2016, which incorporates AIMS-2 Blockpoint
Version 17A to address these issues. We have included this new service
information in this SNPRM and revised paragraph (g)(2)(ii) of this
proposed AD to refer to the new software version and service
information. We have also revised paragraph (i) of this proposed AD to
include credit for the installation of AIMS-2 Blockpoint Version 17 or
17.1, since this software is one way to prevent the latent failure of
the MOV actuator and works under most airplane configurations and
operating conditions.
[[Page 39547]]
We have also revised paragraph (g)(2)(ii) of this proposed AD to
clarify what qualifies as a later approved software version.
Request To Provide Credit
UAL requested that paragraph (h) of the proposed AD (in the NPRM)
be revised to provide credit for actions accomplished in accordance
with Boeing Service Bulletin 777-28A0034, Revision 3, dated September
25, 2015. UAL provided no justification for its request.
We disagree because we find the requested change unnecessary.
Paragraph (f) of this proposed AD states that the actions must be
completed within the compliance times specified, ``unless already
done.'' Therefore, if the actions in paragraph (g)(1) or (g)(2)(i) of
this proposed AD are already completed in accordance with Boeing
Service Bulletin 777-28A0034, Revision 3, dated September 25, 2015, no
credit is needed for these actions. The purpose of paragraph (j) of
this proposed AD (paragraph (h) in the proposed AD (in the NPRM)) is to
provide credit for actions completed on or before the effective date of
the AD using earlier versions of service information. We have not
changed this proposed AD regarding this issue.
Request for Approval of an AMOC to AD 2013-05-03
ANA requested that we allow the actions of the proposed AD (in the
NPRM) to be an approved AMOC to AD 2013-05-03. ANA stated that AD 2013-
05-03 requires operators to replace an MOV actuator with a new or
serviceable actuator having part number (P/N) MA30A1001 or with an MOV
actuator meeting certain criteria. ANA noted that the proposed AD (in
the NPRM) would require replacing MOV actuators with P/N MA30A1017, a
different requirement than in AD 2013-05-03.
We disagree with the commenter's request. We have already approved
the use of Boeing Service Bulletin 777-28A0034, Revision 3, dated
September 25, 2015, as an AMOC to the requirements of paragraph (h) of
AD 2013-05-03 to replace an affected MOV actuator, as stated therein.
Therefore, it is not necessary to restate this AMOC in this proposed
AD. We have not changed this proposed AD regarding this issue.
Request To Extend the Compliance Time
ANA and JAL both requested that we extend the compliance time of
the proposed AD (in the NPRM). JAL requested that the compliance time
be extended from 24 months to 60 months because AD 2016-04-20,
Amendment 39-18414 (81 FR 10460, March 1, 2016) (``AD 2016-04-20'') and
AD 2016-21-05, Amendment 39-18686 (81 FR 79384, November 14, 2016)
(``AD 2016-21-05'') also require the installation of MOV actuator P/N
MA30A1017 (at different locations on the airplane and/or different
airplane models), but allow 60 months for the installation. ANA
requested that the compliance time be extended to 8 years, because
Boeing Service Bulletin 737-28-1314 specifies installation of the same
MOV actuator P/N MA30A1017 (on different airplane models) with a
compliance time of 8 years. ANA stated that because the same part is
used on Boeing Model 737, 767, and 777 airplanes, the vendor will not
be able to supply enough MOV actuators to complete the proposed actions
within 24 months on Model 777 airplanes.
We disagree with the requests. The compliance time of 24 months was
coordinated with Boeing as a practical compliance time for Model 777
airplanes. We may consider providing AMOC approval if the Boeing vendor
of the MOV actuators is unable to provide an adequate supply for
operators to comply with these actions in the applicable compliance
times.
Further, AD 2013-05-03 requires the removal of MOV actuator P/N
MA20A1001-1 (S343T003-39) on both AIMS-1 and AIMS-2 airplanes, with the
exception that the MOV actuator does not have to be removed from the
fuel spar valve locations on airplanes on which AIMS-1 is installed.
Although AD 2016-04-20 and AD 2016-21-05 provide instructions to
replace the fuel spar valve, they do not require that the MOV actuator
only be replaced with P/N MA30A1017. MOV actuators with P/N MA20A2027
(S343T003-56) and MA30A1001 (S343T003-66) have been determined to be
prone to latent failure, so unless the airplane is equipped with AIMS-2
Blockpoint Version 17 or later (which mitigates the unsafe condition),
we are mandating that only P/N MA30A1017 (S343T003-76) be installed at
the left and right fuel spar valve locations. We have not changed this
proposed AD regarding this issue.
Related Service Information Under 1 CFR Part 51
We reviewed Boeing Service Bulletin 777-28A0034, Revision 3, dated
September 25, 2015. This service information describes procedures for,
among other things, inspection and replacement of the main and center
fuel tank valve actuators.
We also reviewed Boeing Service Bulletin 777-31-0218, dated
September 8, 2016. This service information describes procedures for
installing the AIMS-2, Blockpoint Version 17A software upgrade.
This service information is reasonably available because the
interested parties have access to it through their normal course of
business or by the means identified in the ADDRESSES section.
FAA's Determination
We are proposing this SNPRM because we evaluated all the relevant
information and determined the unsafe condition described previously is
likely to exist or develop in other products of the same type design.
Certain changes described above expand the scope of the NPRM. As a
result, we have determined that it is necessary to reopen the comment
period to provide additional opportunity for the public to comment on
this SNPRM.
Proposed Requirements of This SNPRM
This SNPRM would require accomplishing the actions specified in the
service information described previously, except as discussed under
``Differences Between this SNPRM and the Service Information.'' For
information on the procedures and compliance times, see this service
information at https://www.regulations.gov by searching for and locating
Docket No. FAA-2016-4219.
Differences Between This SNPRM and the Service Information
We have excluded line numbers 1165 and subsequent from the
applicability section of this proposed AD as these airplanes were
manufactured with AIMS-2 Blockpoint Version 17 or higher installed, and
are not affected by the unsafe condition.
Costs of Compliance
We estimate that this proposed AD affects 154 airplanes of U.S.
registry. We estimate the following costs to comply with this proposed
AD:
[[Page 39548]]
Estimated Costs
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Cost per
Action Labor cost Parts cost product Cost on U.S. operators
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Inspection..................... 1 work-hour x $85 $0 $85 $13,090.
per hour = $85.
Replacement of two MOV 5 work-hours x 12,000 12,425 Up to $422,450.
actuators without fuel tank $85 per hour =
access. $425.
AIMS-2, Blockpoint Version 17A, 7 work-hours x 0 595 Up to $71,400.
installation. $85 per hour =
$595.
28-AWL-MOVA incorporation...... 1 work-hour x $85 0 85 $13,090.
per hour = $85.
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
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.
This proposed AD is issued in accordance with authority delegated
by the Executive Director, Aircraft Certification Service, as
authorized by FAA Order 8000.51C. In accordance with that order,
issuance of ADs is normally a function of the Compliance and
Airworthiness Division, but during this transition period, the
Executive Director has delegated the authority to issue ADs applicable
to transport category airplanes to the Director of the System Oversight
Division.
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, 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):
The Boeing Company: Docket No. FAA-2016-4219; Product Identifier
2015-NM-169-AD.
(a) Comments Due Date
We must receive comments by October 5, 2017.
(b) Affected ADs
This AD affects AD 2015-19-01, Amendment 39-18264 (80 FR 55521,
September 16, 2015).
(c) Applicability
This AD applies to The Boeing Company Model 777-200, 777-200LR,
777-300, 777-300ER, and 777F series airplanes, certificated in any
category, excluding line numbers 1165 and subsequent.
(d) Subject
Air Transport Association (ATA) of America Code 28, Fuel.
(e) Unsafe Condition
This AD was prompted by reports of latently failed fuel shutoff
valves discovered during fuel filter replacement. We are issuing
this AD to prevent latent failure of the fuel shutoff valve to the
engine, which could result in the inability to terminate fuel flow
to the engine and, in the case of an engine fire, could lead to wing
failure.
(f) Compliance
Comply with this AD within the compliance times specified,
unless already done.
(g) Inspection and Replacement
Within 24 months after the effective date of this AD: Do an
inspection to determine the part numbers (P/N) of the motor-operated
valve (MOV) actuators of the fuel shutoff valves for the left and
right engines, in accordance with the Accomplishment Instructions of
Boeing Service Bulletin 777-28A0034, Revision 3, dated September 25,
2015. A review of airplane maintenance records is acceptable in lieu
of this inspection if the part number can be conclusively determined
from that review. If any MOV actuator not having P/N MA30A1017
(Boeing P/N S343T003-76), is found, do the actions in paragraphs
(g)(1) or (g)(2) of this AD, as applicable.
(1) For airplanes having airplane information management system
(AIMS) 1 installed: Within 24 months after the effective date of
this AD, install new engine fuel spar MOV actuators having part
number (P/N) MA30A1017, in accordance with the Accomplishment
Instructions of Boeing Service Bulletin 777-28A0034, Revision 3,
dated September 25, 2015.
(2) For airplanes having AIMS-2, Blockpoint Version 16 or
earlier, installed: Within 24 months after the effective date of
this AD, do the actions specified in paragraph (g)(2)(i) or
(g)(2)(ii) of this AD.
(i) Install new engine fuel spar MOV actuators having P/N
MA30A1017, in accordance with the Accomplishment Instructions of
Boeing Service Bulletin 777-28A0034, Revision 3, dated September 25,
2015.
(ii) Install AIMS-2, Blockpoint Version 17A or later-approved
version, in accordance with the Accomplishment Instructions of
Boeing Service Bulletin 777-31-0218, dated September 8, 2016. Later-
approved versions of the software are only those Boeing software
versions that are approved as a replacement for AIMS-2, Blockpoint
Version 17A, and approved as part of the type design by the FAA
after issuance of Boeing Service Bulletin 777-31-0218, dated
September 8, 2016.
[[Page 39549]]
(h) Revision of Maintenance or Inspection Program
Within 24 months after the effective date of this AD, and after
accomplishing the actions required by paragraph (g) of this AD on
all airplanes in an operator's fleet, as applicable, revise the
maintenance or inspection program, as applicable, to add
Airworthiness Limitation (AWL) 28-AWL-MOVA by incorporating the
information specified in figure 1 to paragraph (h) of this AD into
the Airworthiness Limitations Section of the Instructions for
Continued Airworthiness.
Figure 1 to Paragraph (h) of this AD--AWL for Engine Fuel Shutoff Valve
(Fuel Spar Valve) Actuator Installation Prohibition
------------------------------------------------------------------------
AWL No. Applicability Description
------------------------------------------------------------------------
28-AWL-MOVA................... (1) Airplanes Motor Operator Valve
with AIMS-1 (MOV) Actuator--
system, or (2) Prohibition of
Airplanes with Installation of
AIMS-2 Specific Part
BlockPoint (BP) Numbers.
v 16 and earlier Installation of MOV
software. actuator part number
(P/N) MA30A1001
(Boeing P/N S343T003-
66) and P/N
MA20A2027 (Boeing P/
N S343T003-56) is
prohibited at the
following positions:
1. Left engine fuel
shutoff spar valve
position.
2. Right engine fuel
shutoff spar valve
position.
------------------------------------------------------------------------
(i) Terminating Action for AD 2015-19-01
Accomplishment of the actions required by paragraphs (g) and (h)
of this AD terminates all requirements of AD 2015-19-01.
(j) Credit for Previous Actions
This paragraph provides credit for actions specified in
paragraph (g)(2)(ii) of this AD, if AIMS-2 Blockpoint Version 17 or
17.1 was installed before the effective date of this AD either in
production or using Boeing Special Attention Service Bulletin 777-
31-0227, dated November 7, 2014; or Revision 1, dated August 12,
2015.
(k) Alternative Methods of Compliance (AMOCs)
(1) The Manager, Seattle ACO Branch, 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 certification office, send it to the attention of the
person identified in paragraph (l)(1) of this AD. Information may be
emailed to: 9-ANM-Seattle-ACO-AMOC-Requests@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, modification, or alteration 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 Branch, to make those findings. To be approved,
the repair method, modification deviation, or alteration deviation
must meet the certification basis of the airplane, and the approval
must specifically refer to this AD.
(4) For service information that contains steps that are labeled
as Required for Compliance (RC), the provisions of paragraphs
(k)(4)(i) and (k)(4)(ii) of this AD apply.
(i) The steps labeled as RC, including substeps under an RC step
and any figures identified in an RC step, must be done to comply
with the AD. An AMOC is required for any deviations to RC steps,
including substeps and identified figures.
(ii) Steps not labeled as RC may be deviated from using accepted
methods in accordance with the operator's maintenance or inspection
program without obtaining approval of an AMOC, provided the RC
steps, including substeps and identified figures, can still be done
as specified, and the airplane can be put back in an airworthy
condition
(l) Related Information
(1) For more information about this AD, contact David Lee,
Aerospace Engineer, Propulsion Section, FAA, Seattle ACO Branch,
1601 Lind Avenue SW., Renton, WA 98057-3356; phone: 425-917-6497;
fax: 425-917-6590; email: david.a.lee@faa.gov.
(2) For service information identified in this AD, contact
Boeing Commercial Airplanes, Attention: Contractual & Data Services
(C&DS), 2600 Westminster Blvd., MC 110 SK57, Seal Beach, CA 90740-
5600; telephone 562 797 1717; Internet https://www.myboeingfleet.com. You may view this referenced service
information at the FAA, Transport Standards Branch, 1601 Lind Avenue
SW., Renton, WA. For information on the availability of this
material at the FAA, call 425-227-1221.
Issued in Renton, Washington, on July 28, 2017.
John P. Piccola, Jr.,
Acting Director, System Oversight Division, Aircraft Certification
Service.
[FR Doc. 2017-16570 Filed 8-18-17; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE 4910-13-P