Airworthiness Directives; Rolls-Royce Corporation Turboshaft Engines, 32203-32206 [2018-14801]

Download as PDF Federal Register / Vol. 83, No. 134 / Thursday, July 12, 2018 / Rules and Regulations (ii) Reserved. (3) For Bell Helicopter Textron Canada Limited service information identified in this AD, contact Bell Helicopter Textron Canada Limited, 12,800 Rue de l’Avenir, Mirabel, Quebec J7J1R4; telephone (450) 437–2862 or (800) 363–8023; fax (450) 433–0272; or at https://www.bellcustomer.com/files/. (4) You may view this service information at FAA, Office of the Regional Counsel, Southwest Region, 10101 Hillwood Pkwy., Room 6N–321, Fort Worth, TX 76177. For information on the availability of this material at the FAA, call (817) 222–5110. (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 Fort Worth, Texas, on June 1, 2018. James A. Grigg, Acting Director, Compliance & Airworthiness Division, Aircraft Certification Service. [FR Doc. 2018–14701 Filed 7–11–18; 8:45 am] BILLING CODE 4910–13–P DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION Federal Aviation Administration rolls-royce.com; internet: www.rollsroyce.com. You may view this service information at the FAA, Engine and Propeller Standards Branch, 1200 District Avenue, Burlington, MA. For information on the availability of this material at the FAA, call 781–238–7759. It is also available on the internet at https://www.regulations.gov by searching for and locating Docket No. FAA–2018– 1118. 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–2017– 1118; or in person at Docket Operations between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m., Monday through Friday, except Federal holidays. The AD docket contains this final rule, the regulatory evaluation, any comments received, and other information. The address for Docket Operations (phone: 800–647–5527) is Docket Operations, U.S. Department of Transportation, Docket Operations, M–30, West Building Ground Floor, Room W12–140, 1200 New Jersey Avenue SE, Washington, DC 20590. [Docket No. FAA–2017–1118; Product Identifier 2017–NE–40–AD; Amendment 39– 19313; AD 2018–13–01] John Tallarovic, Aerospace Engineer, Chicago ACO Branch, FAA, 2300 E. Devon Ave., Des Plaines, IL 60018; phone: 847–294– 8180; fax: 847–294–7834; email: john.m.tallarovic@faa.gov. RIN 2120–AA64 SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: Airworthiness Directives; Rolls-Royce Corporation Turboshaft Engines Discussion FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: 14 CFR Part 39 Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), DOT. ACTION: Final rule. AGENCY: We are adopting a new airworthiness directive (AD) for certain Rolls-Royce Corporation (RRC) model 250–C turboshaft engines. This AD was prompted by several reports of engine power loss, one of which resulted in a fatal helicopter accident. This AD requires removal of the power turbine governor (PTG) bearing assembly, part number (P/N) 2544198, and its replacement with a bearing assembly eligible for installation. We are issuing this AD to address the unsafe condition on these products. DATES: This AD is effective August 16, 2018. ADDRESSES: For service information identified in this final rule, contact Rolls-Royce Corporation, 450 South Meridian Street, Mail Code NB–02–05, Indianapolis, IN 46225; phone: 317– 230–3774; email: indy.pubs.services@ amozie on DSK3GDR082PROD with RULES SUMMARY: VerDate Sep<11>2014 16:03 Jul 11, 2018 Jkt 244001 We issued a notice of proposed rulemaking (NPRM) to amend 14 CFR part 39 by adding an AD that would apply to certain Rolls-Royce Corporation (RRC) model 250–C turboshaft engines. The NPRM published in the Federal Register on February 1, 2018 (83 FR 4609). The NPRM was prompted by several reports of loss of engine power on certain RRC model 250–C turboshaft engines installed on single-engine helicopters. One of these instances of power loss resulted in a fatal helicopter accident on May 4, 2016. The NPRM proposed to require removal of the affected PTG bearing assembly and replace it with a bearing assembly with a new design. We are issuing this AD to address the unsafe condition on these products. Comments We gave the public the opportunity to participate in developing this final rule. The following presents the comments received on the NPRM and the FAA’s response to each comment. PO 00000 Frm 00013 Fmt 4700 Sfmt 4700 32203 Request To Specify the New Bearing Assembly The NTSB and Honeywell Aerospace requested that the AD prohibit the installation of bearing assembly, P/N 2544198, and specify the installation of the new bearing assembly, P/N 2526146. The NTSB expressed concern that differences between the proposed AD and the actions described in the Honeywell SB and Rolls-Royce CEBs could lead to the reinstallation of a dual-spool bearing into an affected PTG. We partially agree. We agree with the request to prohibit the installation of another bearing assembly, P/N 2544198, because our intent is to remove them from service. We disagree with the request to specify the installation of the new bearing assembly, P/N 2526146, because of the possibility of a new bearing P/N being introduced or the specified P/N being discontinued in the future. We added an installation prohibition paragraph to this AD to prohibit the installation of bearing assembly, P/N 2544198. Request To Re-Identify the PTG After Changing the Bearing Assembly The NTSB and Honeywell Aerospace requested that the AD require reidentifying the PTG P/N after changing the bearing assembly in accordance with the related service information. Honeywell Aerospace reasoned that maintenance personnel and operators could easily determine if the service bulletin has been accomplished. This increases the efficiency of operations and reduces the potential for misunderstandings about whether the bearing assembly has been replaced. We disagree. While re-identifying the PTG after changing the bearing assembly is helpful for maintenance personnel, we are not requiring this action within this AD. During the replacement of the bearing assembly, P/N 2544198, the related service information instructs personnel to re-identify the PTG. We did not change this AD. Request To Reduce the Compliance Time Honeywell Aerospace requested that we reduce the compliance time to 50 hours or within 90 days for PTGs that have greater than 750 hours. The commenter reasoned that the original compliance schedule was established 10 years ago based on field experience at that time. The fatal accident referenced in the NPRM occurred on a PTG with 1,048.7 hours since new. We disagree. The compliance time for removing the bearing assembly, P/N 2544198, in this AD is based on Rolls- E:\FR\FM\12JYR1.SGM 12JYR1 32204 Federal Register / Vol. 83, No. 134 / Thursday, July 12, 2018 / Rules and Regulations Royce Corporation Commercial Engine Bulletin (CEB) 1402, Revision 2, dated February 4, 2009. The failure history shows that the number of bearing assembly failures fell sharply following the initial publication of RRC CEB 1402 in 2008. The replacement strategy has proven successful. As a result, we believe that the majority of the fleet has replaced the bearing assembly, P/N 2544198, and only a few remain in service. Besides the fatal accident, there have not been any other bearing failures noted between 2012 and 2018. We, therefore, find it unnecessary to reduce the compliance time as noted by the commenter. We did not change this AD. Request To Increase the Number of Affected Engines Honeywell Aerospace noted that only 1,200 engines installed on airplanes of U.S. registry may be affected, compared with the 2,928 mentioned in the NPRM, based on a review of modification records provided to Honeywell by repair stations. We disagree. We are estimating the total number of engines affected by this AD based on the data available to us. We did not change this AD. Request To Clarify the Affected Engines An individual commenter requested that we clarify that only those engine models that have bearing assembly, P/N 2544198, installed are affected. We agree. We have updated paragraph (c) of this AD to clarify that engines with bearing assembly, P/N 2544198, installed are affected. Request To Identify the Model, Brand, and P/N of the PTG Aircraft Maintenance Netherlands requested that this AD identify the model, brand, and P/N of the affected PTG that must be replaced. The commenter reasoned that various PTG models can be installed on the affected engines. We disagree. This AD provides the overall engine model applicability. The related service information provides specific information regarding the PTGs, including the manufacturer, model, and P/Ns. We did not change this AD. Question on Not Issuing the AD Earlier An individual commenter asked why an AD was not issued in 2009 when RRC issued a statement regarding the failure of the bearing assembly. The FAA uses a risk-based approach to make continued operational safety decisions. When RRC issued CEB 1402, Revision 2, in 2009, our evaluation of the fleet risk did not support an AD. We update our fleet risk evaluation periodically as new information becomes available and have now determined that an AD is justified. We did not change this AD. Question if Replacement Part Verification Testing Was Completed An individual commenter asked if tests or procedures were completed to verify that the replacement bearing assembly resolves the failure of bearing assembly, P/N 2544198, due to the lack of lubrication. We note that replacement parts, such as this replacement bearing assembly, undergo design analysis and testing before being approved for use by the FAA. No change is requested. We did not change this AD. Request for Clarification on the Number of Affected Engines An individual commenter noted that the NPRM estimates that 2,928 model 250–C turboshaft engines are affected, however, the RRC website estimates that there are an estimated 16,000 model 250–C engines currently in service. This AD applies to all RRC model 250–C turboshaft engines that could have the bearing assembly, P/N 2544198, installed. Many of those engines have already had the bearing assembly, P/N 2544198, replaced when new parts became available. Based on the available data, we estimate that 2,928 engines may still have the bearing assembly, P/N 2544198, installed. We did not change this AD. Question on the Availability of a Replacement Bearing Assembly An individual commenter asked if RRC still needs to design a new bearing assembly or if a replacement bearing assembly is already available. A replacement bearing assembly, P/N 2526146, is available for installation. We did not change this AD. Support for the AD An individual commenter expressed support for the NPRM as written. Conclusion We reviewed the relevant data, considered the comments received, and determined that air safety and the public interest require adopting this final rule with the changes described previously. We have determined that these minor changes: • Are consistent with the intent that was proposed in the NPRM for addressing the unsafe condition; and • Do not add any additional burden upon the public than was already proposed in the NPRM. We also determined that these changes will not increase the economic burden on any operator or increase the scope of this final rule. Related Service Information We reviewed Rolls-Royce Corporation Commercial Engine Bulletin (CEB) 1402, Revision 2, dated February 4, 2009. The CEB provides guidance on replacing the PTG bearing assembly, P/N 2544198, with a bearing assembly eligible for installation. Costs of Compliance We estimate that this AD affects 2,928 engines installed on airplanes of U.S. registry. We estimate the following costs to comply with this AD: ESTIMATED COSTS Action Labor cost Remove and replace PTG bearing assembly 8 work-hours × $85 per hour = $680 ............. amozie on DSK3GDR082PROD 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 VerDate Sep<11>2014 16:03 Jul 11, 2018 Jkt 244001 Parts cost 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 PO 00000 Frm 00014 Fmt 4700 Sfmt 4700 $1,700 Cost per product $2,380 Cost on U.S. operators $6,968,640 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 E:\FR\FM\12JYR1.SGM 12JYR1 Federal Register / Vol. 83, No. 134 / Thursday, July 12, 2018 / Rules and Regulations Regulatory Findings (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 14 CFR part 39 as follows: PART 39—AIRWORTHINESS DIRECTIVES (2) After such removal, replace the affected PTG bearing assembly with a part eligible for installation before further flight. amozie on DSK3GDR082PROD with RULES ■ (i) Alternative Methods of Compliance (AMOCs) (h) Installation Prohibition After the effective date of this AD, do not install PTG bearing assembly, P/N 2544198, on any engine. VerDate Sep<11>2014 16:03 Jul 11, 2018 Jkt 244001 1. The authority citation for part 39 continues to read as follows: Authority: 49 U.S.C. 106(g), 40113, 44701. [Amended] 2. The FAA amends § 39.13 by adding the following new airworthiness directive (AD): ■ 2018–13–01 Roll-Royce Corporation (Type Certificate previously held by Allison Engine Company): Amendment 39– 19313; Docket No. FAA–2017–1118; Product Identifier 2017–NE–40–AD. (a) Effective Date This AD is effective August 16, 2018. (b) Affected ADs None. (1) The Manager, Chicago 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 Chicago ACO Branch, send it to the attention PO 00000 Frm 00015 Fmt 4700 Sfmt 4700 This AD applies to Rolls-Royce Corporation (RRC) model 250–C10D, 250– C18, 250–C18A, 250–C18B, 250–C18C, 250– C19, 250–C20, 250–C20B, 250–C20C, 250– C20F, 250–C20J, 250–C20R, 250–C20R/1, 250–C20R/2, 250–C20R/4, 250–C20S, 250– C20W, 250–C28, 250–C28B, 250–C28C, 250– C30, 250–C30G, 250–C30G/2, 250–C30M, 250–C30P, 250–C30S, and 250–C30U turboshaft engines with power turbine governor (PTG) bearing assembly, part number (P/N) 2544198, installed. (d) Subject Joint Aircraft System Component (JASC) Code 7323, Turbine Governor. (e) Unsafe Condition 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 § 39.13 (c) Applicability This AD was prompted by several reports of loss of power, one of which resulted in a fatal helicopter accident. We are issuing this AD to prevent failure of the PTG bearing assembly. The unsafe condition, if not addressed, could result in failure of the PTG, failure of the engine, in-flight shutdown, and forced autorotation landing or accident. (f) Compliance Comply with this AD within the compliance times specified, unless already done. (g) Required Actions (1) Remove the bearing assembly, P/N 2544198, from the PTG in accordance with the compliance times in Figure 1 to paragraph (g) of this AD, or within 90 days after the effective date of this AD, whichever occurs later. of the person identified in paragraph (j) of this AD. (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. (j) Related Information For more information about this AD, contact John Tallarovic, Aerospace Engineer, E:\FR\FM\12JYR1.SGM 12JYR1 ER12JY18.017</GPH> that is likely to exist or develop on products identified in this rulemaking action. This 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 engines, propellers, and associated appliances to the Manager, Engine and Propeller Standards Branch, Policy and Innovation Division. 32205 32206 Federal Register / Vol. 83, No. 134 / Thursday, July 12, 2018 / Rules and Regulations Chicago ACO Branch, FAA, 2300 E Devon Ave., Des Plaines, IL 60018; phone: 847–294– 8180; fax: 847–294–7834; email: john.m.tallarovic@faa.gov. (k) Material Incorporated by Reference None. Issued in Burlington, Massachusetts, on July 6, 2018. Karen M. Grant, Acting Manager, Engine and Propeller Standards Branch, Aircraft Certification Service. [FR Doc. 2018–14801 Filed 7–11–18; 8:45 am] BILLING CODE 4910–13–P DEPARTMENT OF HOMELAND SECURITY Coast Guard 33 CFR Part 100 [Docket No. USCG–2018–0662] RIN 1625–AA08 Special Local Regulation; Marine City Water Ski Show, St. Clair River, Marine City, MI Coast Guard, DHS. Temporary final rule. AGENCY: ACTION: The Coast Guard is establishing a special local regulation for certain navigable waters of the St. Clair River, Marine City, MI. This action is necessary and is intended to ensure safety of life on navigable waters immediately prior to, during, and immediately after the Marine City Water Ski Show. DATES: This temporary final rule is effective from 1 p.m. though 5 p.m. on August 4, 2018. ADDRESSES: To view documents mentioned in this preamble as being available in the docket, go to https:// www.regulations.gov, type USCG–2018– 0662 in the ‘‘SEARCH’’ box and click ‘‘SEARCH.’’ Click on Open Docket Folder on the line associated with this rule. FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: If you have questions on this temporary rule, call or email Tracy Girard, Prevention Department, Sector Detroit, Coast Guard; telephone (313) 568–9564, or email Tracy.M.Girard@uscg.mil. SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: amozie on DSK3GDR082PROD with RULES SUMMARY: I. Table of Abbreviations CFR Code of Federal Regulations DHS Department of Homeland Security FR Federal Register NPRM Notice of Proposed Rulemaking § Section COTP Captain of the Port VerDate Sep<11>2014 16:03 Jul 11, 2018 Jkt 244001 U.S.C. United States Code II. Background Information and Regulatory History The Coast Guard is issuing this temporary rule without prior notice and opportunity to comment pursuant to authority under section 4(a) of the Administrative Procedure Act (APA) (5 U.S.C. 553(b)). This provision authorizes an agency to issue a rule without prior notice and opportunity to comment when the agency for good cause finds that those procedures are ‘‘impracticable, unnecessary, or contrary to the public interest.’’ Under 5 U.S.C. 553(b)(B), the Coast Guard finds that good cause exists for not publishing a notice of proposed rulemaking (NPRM) with respect to this rule because doing so would be impracticable. The Coast Guard just recently received the final details of this water ski show, which does not provide sufficient time to publish an NPRM prior to the event. Thus, delaying the effective date of this rule to wait for a comment period to run would be contrary to public interest because it would inhibit the Coast Guard’s ability to protect participants, mariners and vessels from the hazards associated with this event. It is impracticable to publish an NPRM because we lack sufficient time to provide a reasonable comment period and then consider those comments before issuing this rule. Under 5 U.S.C. 553(d)(3), the Coast Guard finds that good cause exists for making this rule effective less than 30 days after publication in the Federal Register. Delaying the effective date of this rule would inhibit the Coast Guard’s ability to protect participants, mariners and vessels from the hazards associated with this event. III. Legal Authority and Need for Rule The Coast Guard is issuing this rule under authority in 33 U.S.C. 1233. The Captain of the Port Detroit (COTP) has determined that the likely combination of recreation vessels, commercial vessels, and an unknown number of spectators in close proximity to a water ski show along the water pose extra and unusual hazards to public safety and property. Therefore, the COTP is establishing a special local regulation around the event location to help minimize risks to safety of life and property during this event. IV. Discussion of the Rule This rule establishes a special local regulation from 1 p.m. though 5 p.m. on August 4, 2018. The special local regulation will encompass all U.S. navigable waters of the St. Clair River, PO 00000 Frm 00016 Fmt 4700 Sfmt 4700 Marine City, MI, bound by: 200 feet seaward of latitude position 42°43.382′ N and 200 feet seaward of latitude position 42°42.983′ N (NAD 83). The special local regulation will be enforced from 1 p.m. to 1:45 p.m. and from 4 p.m. to 4:45 p.m. on August 4, 2018. No vessel or person will be permitted to enter the special local regulation without obtaining permission from the COTP or his designated representative. V. Regulatory Analyses We developed this rule after considering numerous statutes and Executive orders related to rulemaking. Below we summarize our analyses based on a number of these statutes and Executive orders, and we discuss First Amendment rights of protestors. A. Regulatory Planning and Review Executive Orders 12866 and 13563 direct agencies to assess the costs and benefits of available regulatory alternatives and, if regulation is necessary, to select regulatory approaches that maximize net benefits. Executive Order 13771 directs agencies to control regulatory costs through a budgeting process. This rule has not been designated a ‘‘significant regulatory action,’’ under Executive Order 12866. Accordingly, this rule has not been reviewed by the Office of Management and Budget (OMB), and pursuant to OMB guidance it is exempt from the requirements of Executive Order 13771. This regulatory action determination is based on the size, location, duration, and time-of-year of the special local regulation. Vessel traffic will be able to safely transit around this special local regulation zone which will impact a small designated area of the St. Clair River from 1 p.m. until 5 p.m. on August 4, 2018. Moreover, the Coast Guard will issue Broadcast Notice to Mariners via VHF–FM marine channel 16 about the special local regulation and the rule allows vessels to seek permission to enter the area. B. Impact on Small Entities The Regulatory Flexibility Act of 1980, 5 U.S.C. 601–612, as amended, requires Federal agencies to consider the potential impact of regulations on small entities during rulemaking. The term ‘‘small entities’’ comprises small businesses, not-for-profit organizations that are independently owned and operated and are not dominant in their fields, and governmental jurisdictions with populations of less than 50,000. The Coast Guard certifies under 5 U.S.C. 605(b) that this rule will not have a E:\FR\FM\12JYR1.SGM 12JYR1

Agencies

[Federal Register Volume 83, Number 134 (Thursday, July 12, 2018)]
[Rules and Regulations]
[Pages 32203-32206]
From the Federal Register Online via the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]
[FR Doc No: 2018-14801]


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DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION

Federal Aviation Administration

14 CFR Part 39

[Docket No. FAA-2017-1118; Product Identifier 2017-NE-40-AD; Amendment 
39-19313; AD 2018-13-01]
RIN 2120-AA64


Airworthiness Directives; Rolls-Royce Corporation Turboshaft 
Engines

AGENCY: Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), DOT.

ACTION: Final rule.

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

SUMMARY: We are adopting a new airworthiness directive (AD) for certain 
Rolls-Royce Corporation (RRC) model 250-C turboshaft engines. This AD 
was prompted by several reports of engine power loss, one of which 
resulted in a fatal helicopter accident. This AD requires removal of 
the power turbine governor (PTG) bearing assembly, part number (P/N) 
2544198, and its replacement with a bearing assembly eligible for 
installation. We are issuing this AD to address the unsafe condition on 
these products.

DATES: This AD is effective August 16, 2018.

ADDRESSES: For service information identified in this final rule, 
contact Rolls-Royce Corporation, 450 South Meridian Street, Mail Code 
NB-02-05, Indianapolis, IN 46225; phone: 317-230-3774; email: 
royce.com">[email protected]royce.com; internet: www.rolls-royce.com. You 
may view this service information at the FAA, Engine and Propeller 
Standards Branch, 1200 District Avenue, Burlington, MA. For information 
on the availability of this material at the FAA, call 781-238-7759. It 
is also available on the internet at https://www.regulations.gov by 
searching for and locating Docket No. FAA-2018-1118.

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-2017-
1118; or in person at Docket Operations between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m., 
Monday through Friday, except Federal holidays. The AD docket contains 
this final rule, the regulatory evaluation, any comments received, and 
other information. The address for Docket Operations (phone: 800-647-
5527) is Docket Operations, U.S. Department of Transportation, Docket 
Operations, M-30, West Building Ground Floor, Room W12-140, 1200 New 
Jersey Avenue SE, Washington, DC 20590.

FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: John Tallarovic, Aerospace Engineer, 
Chicago ACO Branch, FAA, 2300 E. Devon Ave., Des Plaines, IL 60018; 
phone: 847-294-8180; fax: 847-294-7834; email: 
[email protected].

SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION:

Discussion

    We issued a notice of proposed rulemaking (NPRM) to amend 14 CFR 
part 39 by adding an AD that would apply to certain Rolls-Royce 
Corporation (RRC) model 250-C turboshaft engines. The NPRM published in 
the Federal Register on February 1, 2018 (83 FR 4609). The NPRM was 
prompted by several reports of loss of engine power on certain RRC 
model 250-C turboshaft engines installed on single-engine helicopters. 
One of these instances of power loss resulted in a fatal helicopter 
accident on May 4, 2016. The NPRM proposed to require removal of the 
affected PTG bearing assembly and replace it with a bearing assembly 
with a new design. We are issuing this AD to address the unsafe 
condition on these products.

Comments

    We gave the public the opportunity to participate in developing 
this final rule. The following presents the comments received on the 
NPRM and the FAA's response to each comment.

Request To Specify the New Bearing Assembly

    The NTSB and Honeywell Aerospace requested that the AD prohibit the 
installation of bearing assembly, P/N 2544198, and specify the 
installation of the new bearing assembly, P/N 2526146. The NTSB 
expressed concern that differences between the proposed AD and the 
actions described in the Honeywell SB and Rolls-Royce CEBs could lead 
to the reinstallation of a dual-spool bearing into an affected PTG.
    We partially agree. We agree with the request to prohibit the 
installation of another bearing assembly, P/N 2544198, because our 
intent is to remove them from service. We disagree with the request to 
specify the installation of the new bearing assembly, P/N 2526146, 
because of the possibility of a new bearing P/N being introduced or the 
specified P/N being discontinued in the future. We added an 
installation prohibition paragraph to this AD to prohibit the 
installation of bearing assembly, P/N 2544198.

Request To Re-Identify the PTG After Changing the Bearing Assembly

    The NTSB and Honeywell Aerospace requested that the AD require re-
identifying the PTG P/N after changing the bearing assembly in 
accordance with the related service information. Honeywell Aerospace 
reasoned that maintenance personnel and operators could easily 
determine if the service bulletin has been accomplished. This increases 
the efficiency of operations and reduces the potential for 
misunderstandings about whether the bearing assembly has been replaced.
    We disagree. While re-identifying the PTG after changing the 
bearing assembly is helpful for maintenance personnel, we are not 
requiring this action within this AD. During the replacement of the 
bearing assembly, P/N 2544198, the related service information 
instructs personnel to re-identify the PTG. We did not change this AD.

Request To Reduce the Compliance Time

    Honeywell Aerospace requested that we reduce the compliance time to 
50 hours or within 90 days for PTGs that have greater than 750 hours. 
The commenter reasoned that the original compliance schedule was 
established 10 years ago based on field experience at that time. The 
fatal accident referenced in the NPRM occurred on a PTG with 1,048.7 
hours since new.
    We disagree. The compliance time for removing the bearing assembly, 
P/N 2544198, in this AD is based on Rolls-

[[Page 32204]]

Royce Corporation Commercial Engine Bulletin (CEB) 1402, Revision 2, 
dated February 4, 2009. The failure history shows that the number of 
bearing assembly failures fell sharply following the initial 
publication of RRC CEB 1402 in 2008. The replacement strategy has 
proven successful. As a result, we believe that the majority of the 
fleet has replaced the bearing assembly, P/N 2544198, and only a few 
remain in service. Besides the fatal accident, there have not been any 
other bearing failures noted between 2012 and 2018. We, therefore, find 
it unnecessary to reduce the compliance time as noted by the commenter. 
We did not change this AD.

Request To Increase the Number of Affected Engines

    Honeywell Aerospace noted that only 1,200 engines installed on 
airplanes of U.S. registry may be affected, compared with the 2,928 
mentioned in the NPRM, based on a review of modification records 
provided to Honeywell by repair stations.
    We disagree. We are estimating the total number of engines affected 
by this AD based on the data available to us. We did not change this 
AD.

Request To Clarify the Affected Engines

    An individual commenter requested that we clarify that only those 
engine models that have bearing assembly, P/N 2544198, installed are 
affected.
    We agree. We have updated paragraph (c) of this AD to clarify that 
engines with bearing assembly, P/N 2544198, installed are affected.

Request To Identify the Model, Brand, and P/N of the PTG

    Aircraft Maintenance Netherlands requested that this AD identify 
the model, brand, and P/N of the affected PTG that must be replaced. 
The commenter reasoned that various PTG models can be installed on the 
affected engines.
    We disagree. This AD provides the overall engine model 
applicability. The related service information provides specific 
information regarding the PTGs, including the manufacturer, model, and 
P/Ns. We did not change this AD.

Question on Not Issuing the AD Earlier

    An individual commenter asked why an AD was not issued in 2009 when 
RRC issued a statement regarding the failure of the bearing assembly.
    The FAA uses a risk-based approach to make continued operational 
safety decisions. When RRC issued CEB 1402, Revision 2, in 2009, our 
evaluation of the fleet risk did not support an AD. We update our fleet 
risk evaluation periodically as new information becomes available and 
have now determined that an AD is justified. We did not change this AD.

Question if Replacement Part Verification Testing Was Completed

    An individual commenter asked if tests or procedures were completed 
to verify that the replacement bearing assembly resolves the failure of 
bearing assembly, P/N 2544198, due to the lack of lubrication.
    We note that replacement parts, such as this replacement bearing 
assembly, undergo design analysis and testing before being approved for 
use by the FAA. No change is requested. We did not change this AD.

Request for Clarification on the Number of Affected Engines

    An individual commenter noted that the NPRM estimates that 2,928 
model 250-C turboshaft engines are affected, however, the RRC website 
estimates that there are an estimated 16,000 model 250-C engines 
currently in service.
    This AD applies to all RRC model 250-C turboshaft engines that 
could have the bearing assembly, P/N 2544198, installed. Many of those 
engines have already had the bearing assembly, P/N 2544198, replaced 
when new parts became available. Based on the available data, we 
estimate that 2,928 engines may still have the bearing assembly, P/N 
2544198, installed. We did not change this AD.

Question on the Availability of a Replacement Bearing Assembly

    An individual commenter asked if RRC still needs to design a new 
bearing assembly or if a replacement bearing assembly is already 
available.
    A replacement bearing assembly, P/N 2526146, is available for 
installation. We did not change this AD.

Support for the AD

    An individual commenter expressed support for the NPRM as written.

Conclusion

    We reviewed the relevant data, considered the comments received, 
and determined that air safety and the public interest require adopting 
this final rule with the changes described previously. We have 
determined that these minor changes:
     [Agr]re consistent with the intent that was proposed in 
the NPRM for addressing the unsafe condition; and
     Do not add any additional burden upon the public than was 
already proposed in the NPRM.
    We also determined that these changes will not increase the 
economic burden on any operator or increase the scope of this final 
rule.

Related Service Information

    We reviewed Rolls-Royce Corporation Commercial Engine Bulletin 
(CEB) 1402, Revision 2, dated February 4, 2009. The CEB provides 
guidance on replacing the PTG bearing assembly, P/N 2544198, with a 
bearing assembly eligible for installation.

Costs of Compliance

    We estimate that this AD affects 2,928 engines installed on 
airplanes of U.S. registry.
    We estimate the following costs to comply with this AD:

                                                 Estimated Costs
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                                     Cost per      Cost on U.S.
                Action                         Labor cost           Parts cost        product        operators
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Remove and replace PTG bearing          8 work-hours x $85 per            $1,700          $2,380      $6,968,640
 assembly.                               hour = $680.
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

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

[[Page 32205]]

that is likely to exist or develop on products identified in this 
rulemaking action.
    This 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 engines, propellers, and 
associated appliances to the Manager, Engine and Propeller Standards 
Branch, Policy and Innovation Division.

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 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):

2018-13-01 Roll-Royce Corporation (Type Certificate previously held 
by Allison Engine Company): Amendment 39-19313; Docket No. FAA-2017-
1118; Product Identifier 2017-NE-40-AD.

(a) Effective Date

    This AD is effective August 16, 2018.

(b) Affected ADs

    None.

(c) Applicability

    This AD applies to Rolls-Royce Corporation (RRC) model 250-C10D, 
250-C18, 250-C18A, 250-C18B, 250-C18C, 250-C19, 250-C20, 250-C20B, 
250-C20C, 250-C20F, 250-C20J, 250-C20R, 250-C20R/1, 250-C20R/2, 250-
C20R/4, 250-C20S, 250-C20W, 250-C28, 250-C28B, 250-C28C, 250-C30, 
250-C30G, 250-C30G/2, 250-C30M, 250-C30P, 250-C30S, and 250-C30U 
turboshaft engines with power turbine governor (PTG) bearing 
assembly, part number (P/N) 2544198, installed.

(d) Subject

    Joint Aircraft System Component (JASC) Code 7323, Turbine 
Governor.

(e) Unsafe Condition

    This AD was prompted by several reports of loss of power, one of 
which resulted in a fatal helicopter accident. We are issuing this 
AD to prevent failure of the PTG bearing assembly. The unsafe 
condition, if not addressed, could result in failure of the PTG, 
failure of the engine, in-flight shutdown, and forced autorotation 
landing or accident.

(f) Compliance

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

(g) Required Actions

    (1) Remove the bearing assembly, P/N 2544198, from the PTG in 
accordance with the compliance times in Figure 1 to paragraph (g) of 
this AD, or within 90 days after the effective date of this AD, 
whichever occurs later.
[GRAPHIC] [TIFF OMITTED] TR12JY18.017

    (2) After such removal, replace the affected PTG bearing 
assembly with a part eligible for installation before further 
flight.

(h) Installation Prohibition

    After the effective date of this AD, do not install PTG bearing 
assembly, P/N 2544198, on any engine.

(i) Alternative Methods of Compliance (AMOCs)

    (1) The Manager, Chicago 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 Chicago ACO Branch, send it to the attention of the 
person identified in paragraph (j) of this AD.
    (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.

(j) Related Information

    For more information about this AD, contact John Tallarovic, 
Aerospace Engineer,

[[Page 32206]]

Chicago ACO Branch, FAA, 2300 E Devon Ave., Des Plaines, IL 60018; 
phone: 847-294-8180; fax: 847-294-7834; email: 
[email protected].

(k) Material Incorporated by Reference

    None.

    Issued in Burlington, Massachusetts, on July 6, 2018.
Karen M. Grant,
Acting Manager, Engine and Propeller Standards Branch, Aircraft 
Certification Service.
[FR Doc. 2018-14801 Filed 7-11-18; 8:45 am]
 BILLING CODE 4910-13-P
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