Airworthiness Directives; Rolls-Royce plc Turbofan Engines, 40161-40164 [2018-17405]

Download as PDF Federal Register / Vol. 83, No. 157 / Tuesday, August 14, 2018 / Proposed Rules Accomplishment Instructions of ASB 737– 53A1368. (h) Exceptions to Service Information Specifications (1) For purposes of determining compliance with the requirements of this AD: Where ASB 737–53A1368 uses the phrase ‘‘the original issue date of this service bulletin,’’ this AD requires using ‘‘the effective date of this AD.’’ (2) Where ASB 737–53A1368 specifies contacting Boeing: This AD requires repair before further flight using a method approved in accordance with the procedures specified in paragraph (j) of this AD. amozie on DSK3GDR082PROD with PROPOSALS1 (i) Optional Terminating Action for Repetitive Inspections (1) Accomplishment of the repair in accordance with PART 4 of the Accomplishment Instructions of ASB 737– 53A1368 terminates the repetitive inspections specified in PART 2 of ASB 737– 53A1368 on the side of the airplane on which the repair was done, as required by paragraph (g) of this AD. (2) Accomplishment of the preventive modification in accordance with PART 5 of the Accomplishment Instructions of ASB 737–53A1368 terminates the repetitive inspections specified in PART 2 or PART 6, as applicable, of ASB 737–53A1368 on the side of the airplane on which the preventive modification was done, as required by paragraph (g) of this AD. (j) 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 (k)(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) Except as required by paragraph (h) of this AD: For service information that contains steps that are labeled as RC, the provisions of paragraphs (j)(4)(i) and (j)(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. If a step or substep is VerDate Sep<11>2014 17:23 Aug 13, 2018 Jkt 244001 labeled ‘‘RC Exempt,’’ then the RC requirement is removed from that step or substep. 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. (k) Related Information (1) For more information about this AD, contact Alan Pohl, Aerospace Engineer, Airframe Section, FAA, Seattle ACO Branch, 2200 South 216th St., Des Moines, WA 98198; phone and fax: 206–231–3527; email: alan.pohl@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, 2200 South 216th St., Des Moines, WA. For information on the availability of this material at the FAA, call 206–231–3195. Issued in Des Moines, Washington, on August 5, 2018. Michael Kaszycki, Acting Director, System Oversight Division, Aircraft Certification Service. [FR Doc. 2018–17323 Filed 8–13–18; 8:45 am] BILLING CODE 4910–13–P DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION Federal Aviation Administration 14 CFR Part 39 [Docket No. FAA–2018–0538; Product Identifier 2012–NE–47–AD] RIN 2120–AA64 Airworthiness Directives; Rolls-Royce plc Turbofan Engines Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), DOT. ACTION: Notice of proposed rulemaking (NPRM). AGENCY: We propose to supersede Airworthiness Directive (AD) 2017–03– 02, which applies to certain Rolls-Royce plc (RR) RB211 Trent 768–60, 772–60, and 772B–60 turbofan engines. AD 2017–03–02 requires initial and repetitive ultrasonic inspections (UIs) of the affected low-pressure (LP) compressor blades. Since we issued AD 2017–03–02, RR issued revised service information to reduce the inspection threshold for UIs of the affected blades. This proposed AD would retain the UIs SUMMARY: PO 00000 Frm 00003 Fmt 4702 Sfmt 4702 40161 in AD 2017–03–02 while reducing the inspection threshold. We are proposing this AD to address the unsafe condition on these products. DATES: We must receive comments on this proposed AD by September 28, 2018. ADDRESSES: You may send comments, using the procedures found in 14 CFR 11.43 and 11.45, by any of the following methods: • Federal eRulemaking Portal: Go to https://www.regulations.gov. Follow the instructions for submitting comments. • Fax: 202–493–2251. • Mail: U.S. Department of Transportation, Docket Operations, M– 30, West Building Ground Floor, Room W12–140, 1200 New Jersey Avenue SE, Washington, DC 20590. • Hand Delivery: Deliver to Mail address above between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m., Monday through Friday, except Federal holidays. For service information identified in this NPRM, contact Rolls-Royce plc, P.O. Box 31, Derby, England, DE24 8BJ; phone: 011–44–1332–242424; fax: 011– 44–1332–249936, or email: https:// www.rolls-royce.com/contact/civil_ team.jsp. You may view this service information at the FAA, Engine and Propeller Standards Branch, 1200 District Avenue, Burlington, MA 01803. For information on the availability of this material at the FAA, call 781–238– 7759. 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–2018– 0538; 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 NPRM, the mandatory continuing airworthiness information (MCAI), the regulatory evaluation, any comments received, and other information. The address for Docket Operations (phone: 800–647– 5527) is listed above. Comments will be available in the AD docket shortly after receipt. FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Kevin M. Clark, Aerospace Engineer, ECO Branch, FAA, 1200 District Avenue, Burlington, MA 01803; phone: 781–238–7088; fax: 781–238–7199; email: kevin.m.clark@faa.gov. SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: Comments Invited We invite you to send any written relevant data, views, or arguments about this proposed AD. Send your comments to an address listed under the E:\FR\FM\14AUP1.SGM 14AUP1 40162 Federal Register / Vol. 83, No. 157 / Tuesday, August 14, 2018 / Proposed Rules ADDRESSES section. Include ‘‘Docket No. FAA–2018–0538; Product Identifier 2012–NE–47–AD’’ at the beginning of your comments. We specifically invite comments on the overall regulatory, economic, environmental, and energy aspects of this NPRM. We will consider all comments received by the closing date and may amend this NPRM 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 AD 2017–03–02, Amendment 39–18793 (82 FR 10701, February 15, 2017), (‘‘AD 2017–03–02’’), for certain RR RB211 Trent 768–60, 772–60, and 772B–60 turbofan engines with LP compressor blade, part number (P/N) FK23411, FK25441, FK25968, FW11901, FW15393, FW23643, FW23741, FW23744, KH23403, or KH23404, installed. AD 2017–03–02 requires the UIs of the affected LP compressor blades. AD 2017–03–02 resulted from revised service information to reduce the inspection threshold of the UI for the LP compressor blades. We issued AD 2017– 03–02 to correct the unsafe condition on these products. Actions Since AD 2017–03–02 Was Issued Since we issued AD 2017–03–02, further analysis determined that the initial and repetitive inspection threshold described in Revision 3 of Rolls-Royce Alert Non-Modification Service Bulletin (NMSB) RB.211–72– AH465 must be further reduced from 2,400 cycles to 1,200 cycles. Therefore, RR issued Revision 4 of Alert NMSB RB.211–72–AH465, dated October 3, 2017. Also, since we issued AD 2017– 03–02, the European Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) issued AD 2017–0241, dated December 6, 2017, which requires ultrasonic inspection of each affected LP compressor blade within the compliance time specified in Section 1.D. of RR Alert NMSB RB.211–72– AH465. Related Service Information Under 1 CFR Part 51 We reviewed Rolls-Royce Alert NMSB RB.211–72–AH465, Revision 4, dated October 3, 2017. The Alert NMSB describes procedures for performing initial and repetitive UI of the LP compressor blades. 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. Other Related Service Information We also reviewed the following service information: RR NMSB RB.211– 72–G702, dated May 23, 2011; RR NMSB RB.211–72–G872, Revision 2, dated March 8, 2013, or earlier revisions; RR NMSB RB.211–72–H311, dated March 8, 2013; RR Engine Manual E-Trent-1RR, Task 72–31–11–200–806; or Airbus A330 Aircraft Maintenance Manual (AMM), Tasks 72–31–41–270– 801 or 72–31–41–270–802. These service documents describe the inspection procedures for the UI of the Trent 700 LP compressor blades. FAA’s Determination We are proposing this AD because we evaluated all the relevant information and determined the unsafe condition described previously is likely to exist or develop in other products of the same type design. Proposed AD Requirements This proposed AD would retain all requirements of AD 2017–03–02. This proposed AD would reduce the inspection threshold for UI of the LP compressor blades from 2,400 cycles to 1,200 cycles. This proposed AD would also require accomplishing the actions specified in the service information described previously. Differences Between the Proposed AD and the MCAI or Service Information The compliance time of this proposed AD differs from EASA AD 2017–0241 in that, for blades with 2,400 cycles since new or cycles since last inspection on the effective date of this AD, this AD requires inspection within 30 days after the effective date of this AD. EASA AD 2017–0241 specifies that all blades must be inspected before accumulating 2,400 cycles. Costs of Compliance We estimate that this proposed AD affects 56 engines installed on airplanes of U.S. registry. We estimate the following costs to comply with this proposed AD: ESTIMATED COSTS Action Labor cost Inspection ................................ 44 work-hours × $85 per hour = $3,740 ................................ This proposed AD provides updated labor cost for completing the UI of the LP compressor blades as a correction to AD 2017–03–02. amozie on DSK3GDR082PROD with PROPOSALS1 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, VerDate Sep<11>2014 17:23 Aug 13, 2018 Jkt 244001 ‘‘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 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 PO 00000 Frm 00004 Fmt 4702 Cost per product Parts cost Sfmt 4702 $0 $3,740 Cost on U.S. operators $209,440 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 We have determined that this proposed AD would not have federalism implications under Executive Order 13132. This proposed AD would not have a substantial direct effect on the States, on the relationship between the E:\FR\FM\14AUP1.SGM 14AUP1 Federal Register / Vol. 83, No. 157 / Tuesday, August 14, 2018 / Proposed Rules Air transportation, Aircraft, Aviation safety, Incorporation by reference, Safety. The Proposed Amendment amozie on DSK3GDR082PROD with PROPOSALS1 Accordingly, under the authority delegated to me by the Administrator, the FAA proposes to amend 14 CFR part 39 as follows: (3) If an LP compressor blade fails the inspection required by this AD, replace the blade with a part eligible for installation, prior to return to service. (h) Parts Installation After the effective date of this AD, LP compressor blade, P/N FK23411, FK25441, FK25968, FW11901, FW15393, FW23643, FW23741, FW23744, KH23403, or KH23404, is eligible for installation if the LP 17:23 Aug 13, 2018 Jkt 244001 1. The authority citation for part 39 continues to read as follows: ■ Authority: 49 U.S.C. 106(g), 40113, 44701. § 39.13 [Amended] 2. The FAA amends § 39.13 by removing airworthiness directive (AD) 2017–03–02, Amendment 39–18793 (82 FR 10701, February 15, 2017), and adding the following new AD: ■ Rolls-Royce plc: Docket No. FAA–2018– 0538; Product Identifier 2012–NE–47– AD. (a) Comments Due Date The FAA must receive comments on this AD action by September 28, 2018. (b) Affected ADs List of Subjects in 14 CFR Part 39 VerDate Sep<11>2014 PART 39—AIRWORTHINESS DIRECTIVES This AD replaces AD 2017–03–02, Amendment 39–18793 (82 FR 10701, February 15, 2017). (c) Applicability This AD applies to Rolls-Royce plc (RR) RB211 Trent 768–60, 772–60, and 772B–60 turbofan engines with low-pressure (LP) compressor blade, part number (P/N) FK23411, FK25441, FK25968, FW11901, FW15393, FW23643, FW23741, FW23744, KH23403, or KH23404, installed. compressor blade has not exceeded 1,200 CSN or CSLI. (i) Credit for Previous Actions You may take credit for the UIs required by paragraph (g) of this AD, if you performed the UIs before the effective date of this AD using the following service information: RR NMSB RB.211–72–AH465, Revision 3, dated April 27, 2017, or earlier revisions; RR NMSB RB.211–72–G702, dated May 23, 2011; RR PO 00000 Frm 00005 Fmt 4702 Sfmt 4702 (d) Subject Joint Aircraft System Component (JASC) Code 7230, Turbine Engine Compressor Section. (e) Unsafe Condition This AD was prompted by LP compressor blade partial airfoil release events that occurred in-service on RR Trent 700 engines. While released sections were contained in each case, projection of secondary debris and effects could present a potential hazard. We are issuing this AD to prevent LP compressor blade airfoil separation. The unsafe condition, if not addressed, could result in damage to the engine and damage to the airplane. (f) Compliance Comply with this AD within the compliance times specified, unless already done. (g) Required Actions (1) After the effective date of this AD, perform an ultrasonic inspection (UI) of each LP compressor blade within the compliance time specified in Figure 1 to paragraph (g) of this AD, and thereafter at intervals not to exceed 1,200 cycles since last inspection (CSLI). (2) Use the Accomplishment Instructions, paragraph 3, excluding subparagraphs 3.C.(2)(b), 3.D.(2), and 3.G.(1), of RR Alert Non-Modification Service Bulletin (NMSB) RB.211–72–AH465, Revision 4, dated October 3, 2017, to perform the inspections required by this AD. NMSB RB.211–72–G872, Revision 2, dated March 8, 2013, or earlier revisions; RR NMSB RB.211–72–H311, dated March 8, 2013; RR Engine Manual E-Trent-1RR, Task 72–31–11– 200–806; or Airbus A330 Aircraft Maintenance Manual (AMM), Tasks 72–31– 41–270–801 or 72–31–41–270–802. E:\FR\FM\14AUP1.SGM 14AUP1 EP14AU18.001</GPH> national Government and the States, or on the distribution of power and responsibilities among the various levels of government. For the reasons discussed above, I certify that the proposed regulation: (1) Is not a ‘‘significant regulatory action’’ under Executive Order 12866, (2) Is not a ‘‘significant rule’’ under the DOT Regulatory Policies and Procedures (44 FR 11034, February 26, 1979), (3) Will not affect intrastate aviation in Alaska, 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. 40163 40164 Federal Register / Vol. 83, No. 157 / Tuesday, August 14, 2018 / Proposed Rules (j) Alternative Methods of Compliance (AMOCs) (1) The Manager, ECO 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 (k)(1) of this AD. You may email your request to: ANE-AD-AMOC@ 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. (k) Related Information (1) For more information about this AD, contact Kevin M. Clark, Aerospace Engineer, ECO Branch, FAA, 1200 District Avenue, Burlington, MA 01803; phone: 781–238– 7088; fax: 781–238–7199; email: kevin.m.clark@faa.gov. (2) For service information identified in this AD, contact Rolls-Royce plc, P.O. Box 31, Derby, England, DE24 8BJ; phone: 011– 44–1332–242424; fax: 011–44–1332–249936, or email: https://www.rolls-royce.com/ contact/civil_team.jsp. You may view this referenced service information at the FAA, Engine and Propeller Standards Branch, 1200 District Avenue, Burlington, MA 01803. For information on the availability of this material at the FAA, call 781–238–7759. Issued in Burlington, Massachusetts, on August 9, 2018. Robert J. Ganley, Manager, Engine and Propeller Standards Branch, Aircraft Certification Service. [FR Doc. 2018–17405 Filed 8–13–18; 8:45 am] BILLING CODE 4910–13–P anchorages. This proposed rule would ensure that Coast Guard regulations are consistent with the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Baltimore District Port of Baltimore Anchorages and Channels civil works project that widened the channel, and provide a higher degree of safety to persons, property and the environment by accurately depicting the anchorage locations. The proposed changes to the regulated uses of the anchorages would support current and future port activity related to the safety of post-Panamax commercial cargo vessels, and would remove vessel security provisions that currently exist in these Baltimore Harbor regulations. We invite your comments on this proposed rulemaking. DATES: Comments and related material must be received by the Coast Guard on or before November 13, 2018. ADDRESSES: You may submit comments identified by docket number USCG– 2017–0181 using the Federal eRulemaking Portal at https:// www.regulations.gov. See the ‘‘Public Participation and Request for Comments’’ portion of the SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION section for further instructions on submitting comments. FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: If you have questions about this proposed rulemaking, call or email Mr. Ronald L. Houck, U.S. Coast Guard, Sector Maryland-National Capital Region, Waterways Management Division, Coast Guard; telephone (410) 576–2674, email Ronald.L.Houck@uscg.mil. SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: I. Table of Abbreviations CFR Code of Federal Regulations DHS Department of Homeland Security E.O. Executive order FR Federal Register NPRM Notice of proposed rulemaking Pub. L. Public Law § Section U.S.C. United States Code DEPARTMENT OF HOMELAND SECURITY Coast Guard 33 CFR Part 110 [Docket Number USCG–2017–0181] RIN 1625–AA01 Anchorage Grounds; Baltimore Harbor, Baltimore, MD Coast Guard, DHS. Notice of proposed rulemaking. AGENCY: amozie on DSK3GDR082PROD with PROPOSALS1 ACTION: The Coast Guard proposes to amend its Baltimore Harbor anchorage grounds regulation. The proposed changes would reduce the size of three general anchorages, establish one new general anchorage, rename two existing general anchorages, and change the duration a vessel may remain within an anchorage for two existing general SUMMARY: VerDate Sep<11>2014 17:23 Aug 13, 2018 Jkt 244001 II. Background, Purpose, and Legal Basis Anchorage regulation duties and powers were transferred to the Coast Guard in 1967 (32 FR 17726, Dec. 12, 1967). On December 12, 1968, the Fifth Coast Guard District published a final rule in the Federal Register (33 FR 18438) establishing an anchorage area in Baltimore Harbor, Maryland. The anchorage grounds at Baltimore, Maryland are described in 33 CFR 110.158. These anchorage grounds are involved in a federal navigation project under the jurisdiction of the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Baltimore District. PO 00000 Frm 00006 Fmt 4702 Sfmt 4702 Section 101a(22) of the Water Resources Development Act of 1999 (Pub. L. 106– 53, 113 Stat 269 (1999)) authorized widening of the Dundalk and Seagirt Marine Terminal channels. Widening of the Seagirt Marine Terminal channel occurred in 2015. This dredging widened the limits of existing navigation channels which are used to access key Maryland Port Administration marine terminals located immediately adjacent to the Baltimore Harbor, Maryland anchorage grounds, and put the existing anchorage grounds in the way of the newly expanded navigation channels. To addresses these changes, Sector Maryland-National Capital Region, Baltimore, Maryland, worked in coordination with the Port of Baltimore Harbor Safety and Coordination Committee to develop proposed revisions to the affected anchorage boundaries and associated regulations. The purpose of this rulemaking is to reduce navigational safety risk and support port efficiency in Baltimore Harbor. This proposed rule would designate a new general anchorage ground developed from an existing anchorage ground that is located outside of the established navigation channel in order to align with the existing U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Baltimore District Port of Baltimore Anchorages and Channels civil works project. The Baltimore Harbor anchorage grounds are typically used by deep draft commercial cargo vessels. In order to maximize the availability and use of these important anchorages, this proposed rule would also change the duration for which vessels may remain in these anchorages. This proposed rule would reduce the duration a vessel may remain within Anchorage No. 3 Lower (proposed to be changed to Anchorage No. 3A) and Anchorage No. 4, from 72 hours to 24 hours. Lastly, due to similar provisions within the Maritime Transportation Security Act of 2002 (MTSA) (Pub. L. 107–295) and federal regulations (33 CFR part 104, and 46 CFR chapter 1, subchapters N and O), the vessel security requirements in § 110.158(d) are now redundant and would be removed as part of this proposed rule. The legal basis for this rule is: 33 U.S.C. 471, 1221 through 1236, 2071; 33 CFR 1.05–1; and Department of Homeland Security Delegation No. 0170.1, which collectively authorize the Coast Guard to define anchorage grounds. III. Discussion of Proposed Rule The Coast Guard proposes to amend the Baltimore Harbor, Maryland anchorage grounds as described in 33 E:\FR\FM\14AUP1.SGM 14AUP1

Agencies

[Federal Register Volume 83, Number 157 (Tuesday, August 14, 2018)]
[Proposed Rules]
[Pages 40161-40164]
From the Federal Register Online via the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]
[FR Doc No: 2018-17405]


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DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION

Federal Aviation Administration

14 CFR Part 39

[Docket No. FAA-2018-0538; Product Identifier 2012-NE-47-AD]
RIN 2120-AA64


Airworthiness Directives; Rolls-Royce plc Turbofan Engines

AGENCY: Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), DOT.

ACTION: Notice of proposed rulemaking (NPRM).

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

SUMMARY: We propose to supersede Airworthiness Directive (AD) 2017-03-
02, which applies to certain Rolls-Royce plc (RR) RB211 Trent 768-60, 
772-60, and 772B-60 turbofan engines. AD 2017-03-02 requires initial 
and repetitive ultrasonic inspections (UIs) of the affected low-
pressure (LP) compressor blades. Since we issued AD 2017-03-02, RR 
issued revised service information to reduce the inspection threshold 
for UIs of the affected blades. This proposed AD would retain the UIs 
in AD 2017-03-02 while reducing the inspection threshold. We are 
proposing this AD to address the unsafe condition on these products.

DATES: We must receive comments on this proposed AD by September 28, 
2018.

ADDRESSES: You may send comments, using the procedures found in 14 CFR 
11.43 and 11.45, by any of the following methods:
     Federal eRulemaking Portal: Go to https://www.regulations.gov. Follow the instructions for submitting comments.
     Fax: 202-493-2251.
     Mail: U.S. Department of Transportation, Docket 
Operations, M-30, West Building Ground Floor, Room W12-140, 1200 New 
Jersey Avenue SE, Washington, DC 20590.
     Hand Delivery: Deliver to Mail address above between 9 
a.m. and 5 p.m., Monday through Friday, except Federal holidays.
    For service information identified in this NPRM, contact Rolls-
Royce plc, P.O. Box 31, Derby, England, DE24 8BJ; phone: 011-44-1332-
242424; fax: 011-44-1332-249936, or email: https://www.rolls-royce.com/contact/civil_team.jsp. You may view this service information at the 
FAA, Engine and Propeller Standards Branch, 1200 District Avenue, 
Burlington, MA 01803. For information on the availability of this 
material at the FAA, call 781-238-7759.

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-2018-
0538; 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 NPRM, the mandatory continuing airworthiness information (MCAI), 
the regulatory evaluation, any comments received, and other 
information. The address for Docket Operations (phone: 800-647-5527) is 
listed above. Comments will be available in the AD docket shortly after 
receipt.

FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Kevin M. Clark, Aerospace Engineer, 
ECO Branch, FAA, 1200 District Avenue, Burlington, MA 01803; phone: 
781-238-7088; fax: 781-238-7199; email: [email protected].

SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION:

Comments Invited

    We invite you to send any written relevant data, views, or 
arguments about this proposed AD. Send your comments to an address 
listed under the

[[Page 40162]]

ADDRESSES section. Include ``Docket No. FAA-2018-0538; Product 
Identifier 2012-NE-47-AD'' at the beginning of your comments. We 
specifically invite comments on the overall regulatory, economic, 
environmental, and energy aspects of this NPRM. We will consider all 
comments received by the closing date and may amend this NPRM 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 AD 2017-03-02, Amendment 39-18793 (82 FR 10701, February 
15, 2017), (``AD 2017-03-02''), for certain RR RB211 Trent 768-60, 772-
60, and 772B-60 turbofan engines with LP compressor blade, part number 
(P/N) FK23411, FK25441, FK25968, FW11901, FW15393, FW23643, FW23741, 
FW23744, KH23403, or KH23404, installed. AD 2017-03-02 requires the UIs 
of the affected LP compressor blades. AD 2017-03-02 resulted from 
revised service information to reduce the inspection threshold of the 
UI for the LP compressor blades. We issued AD 2017-03-02 to correct the 
unsafe condition on these products.

Actions Since AD 2017-03-02 Was Issued

    Since we issued AD 2017-03-02, further analysis determined that the 
initial and repetitive inspection threshold described in Revision 3 of 
Rolls-Royce Alert Non-Modification Service Bulletin (NMSB) RB.211-72-
AH465 must be further reduced from 2,400 cycles to 1,200 cycles. 
Therefore, RR issued Revision 4 of Alert NMSB RB.211-72-AH465, dated 
October 3, 2017. Also, since we issued AD 2017-03-02, the European 
Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) issued AD 2017-0241, dated December 6, 
2017, which requires ultrasonic inspection of each affected LP 
compressor blade within the compliance time specified in Section 1.D. 
of RR Alert NMSB RB.211-72-AH465.

Related Service Information Under 1 CFR Part 51

    We reviewed Rolls-Royce Alert NMSB RB.211-72-AH465, Revision 4, 
dated October 3, 2017. The Alert NMSB describes procedures for 
performing initial and repetitive UI of the LP compressor blades. 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.

Other Related Service Information

    We also reviewed the following service information: RR NMSB RB.211-
72-G702, dated May 23, 2011; RR NMSB RB.211-72-G872, Revision 2, dated 
March 8, 2013, or earlier revisions; RR NMSB RB.211-72-H311, dated 
March 8, 2013; RR Engine Manual E-Trent-1RR, Task 72-31-11-200-806; or 
Airbus A330 Aircraft Maintenance Manual (AMM), Tasks 72-31-41-270-801 
or 72-31-41-270-802. These service documents describe the inspection 
procedures for the UI of the Trent 700 LP compressor blades.

FAA's Determination

    We are proposing this AD because we evaluated all the relevant 
information and determined the unsafe condition described previously is 
likely to exist or develop in other products of the same type design.

Proposed AD Requirements

    This proposed AD would retain all requirements of AD 2017-03-02. 
This proposed AD would reduce the inspection threshold for UI of the LP 
compressor blades from 2,400 cycles to 1,200 cycles. This proposed AD 
would also require accomplishing the actions specified in the service 
information described previously.

Differences Between the Proposed AD and the MCAI or Service Information

    The compliance time of this proposed AD differs from EASA AD 2017-
0241 in that, for blades with 2,400 cycles since new or cycles since 
last inspection on the effective date of this AD, this AD requires 
inspection within 30 days after the effective date of this AD. EASA AD 
2017-0241 specifies that all blades must be inspected before 
accumulating 2,400 cycles.

Costs of Compliance

    We estimate that this proposed AD affects 56 engines installed on 
airplanes of U.S. registry.
    We estimate the following costs to comply with this proposed AD:

                                                 Estimated Costs
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                                     Cost per      Cost on U.S.
               Action                         Labor cost            Parts cost        product        operators
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Inspection.........................  44 work-hours x $85 per                  $0          $3,740        $209,440
                                      hour = $3,740.
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

    This proposed AD provides updated labor cost for completing the UI 
of the LP compressor blades as a correction to AD 2017-03-02.

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 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

    We have determined that this proposed AD would not have federalism 
implications under Executive Order 13132. This proposed AD would not 
have a substantial direct effect on the States, on the relationship 
between the

[[Page 40163]]

national Government and the States, or on the distribution of power and 
responsibilities among the various levels of government.
    For the reasons discussed above, I certify that the proposed 
regulation:
    (1) Is not a ``significant regulatory action'' under Executive 
Order 12866,
    (2) Is not a ``significant rule'' under the DOT Regulatory Policies 
and Procedures (44 FR 11034, February 26, 1979),
    (3) Will not affect intrastate aviation in Alaska, and
    (4) Will not have a significant economic impact, positive or 
negative, on a substantial number of small entities under the criteria 
of the Regulatory Flexibility Act.

List of Subjects in 14 CFR Part 39

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

The Proposed Amendment

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

PART 39--AIRWORTHINESS DIRECTIVES

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

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


Sec.  39.13   [Amended]

0
2. The FAA amends Sec.  39.13 by removing airworthiness directive (AD) 
2017-03-02, Amendment 39-18793 (82 FR 10701, February 15, 2017), and 
adding the following new AD:

Rolls-Royce plc: Docket No. FAA-2018-0538; Product Identifier 2012-
NE-47-AD.

(a) Comments Due Date

    The FAA must receive comments on this AD action by September 28, 
2018.

(b) Affected ADs

    This AD replaces AD 2017-03-02, Amendment 39-18793 (82 FR 10701, 
February 15, 2017).

(c) Applicability

    This AD applies to Rolls-Royce plc (RR) RB211 Trent 768-60, 772-
60, and 772B-60 turbofan engines with low-pressure (LP) compressor 
blade, part number (P/N) FK23411, FK25441, FK25968, FW11901, 
FW15393, FW23643, FW23741, FW23744, KH23403, or KH23404, installed.

(d) Subject

    Joint Aircraft System Component (JASC) Code 7230, Turbine Engine 
Compressor Section.

(e) Unsafe Condition

    This AD was prompted by LP compressor blade partial airfoil 
release events that occurred in-service on RR Trent 700 engines. 
While released sections were contained in each case, projection of 
secondary debris and effects could present a potential hazard. We 
are issuing this AD to prevent LP compressor blade airfoil 
separation. The unsafe condition, if not addressed, could result in 
damage to the engine and damage to the airplane.

(f) Compliance

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

(g) Required Actions

    (1) After the effective date of this AD, perform an ultrasonic 
inspection (UI) of each LP compressor blade within the compliance 
time specified in Figure 1 to paragraph (g) of this AD, and 
thereafter at intervals not to exceed 1,200 cycles since last 
inspection (CSLI).
    (2) Use the Accomplishment Instructions, paragraph 3, excluding 
subparagraphs 3.C.(2)(b), 3.D.(2), and 3.G.(1), of RR Alert Non-
Modification Service Bulletin (NMSB) RB.211-72-AH465, Revision 4, 
dated October 3, 2017, to perform the inspections required by this 
AD.
[GRAPHIC] [TIFF OMITTED] TP14AU18.001

    (3) If an LP compressor blade fails the inspection required by 
this AD, replace the blade with a part eligible for installation, 
prior to return to service.

(h) Parts Installation

    After the effective date of this AD, LP compressor blade, P/N 
FK23411, FK25441, FK25968, FW11901, FW15393, FW23643, FW23741, 
FW23744, KH23403, or KH23404, is eligible for installation if the LP 
compressor blade has not exceeded 1,200 CSN or CSLI.

(i) Credit for Previous Actions

    You may take credit for the UIs required by paragraph (g) of 
this AD, if you performed the UIs before the effective date of this 
AD using the following service information: RR NMSB RB.211-72-AH465, 
Revision 3, dated April 27, 2017, or earlier revisions; RR NMSB 
RB.211-72-G702, dated May 23, 2011; RR NMSB RB.211-72-G872, Revision 
2, dated March 8, 2013, or earlier revisions; RR NMSB RB.211-72-
H311, dated March 8, 2013; RR Engine Manual E-Trent-1RR, Task 72-31-
11-200-806; or Airbus A330 Aircraft Maintenance Manual (AMM), Tasks 
72-31-41-270-801 or 72-31-41-270-802.

[[Page 40164]]

(j) Alternative Methods of Compliance (AMOCs)

    (1) The Manager, ECO 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 (k)(1) of this AD. You may email your 
request to: [email protected].
    (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.

(k) Related Information

    (1) For more information about this AD, contact Kevin M. Clark, 
Aerospace Engineer, ECO Branch, FAA, 1200 District Avenue, 
Burlington, MA 01803; phone: 781-238-7088; fax: 781-238-7199; email: 
[email protected].
    (2) For service information identified in this AD, contact 
Rolls-Royce plc, P.O. Box 31, Derby, England, DE24 8BJ; phone: 011-
44-1332-242424; fax: 011-44-1332-249936, or email: https://www.rolls-royce.com/contact/civil_team.jsp. You may view this referenced 
service information at the FAA, Engine and Propeller Standards 
Branch, 1200 District Avenue, Burlington, MA 01803. For information 
on the availability of this material at the FAA, call 781-238-7759.

    Issued in Burlington, Massachusetts, on August 9, 2018.
Robert J. Ganley,
Manager, Engine and Propeller Standards Branch, Aircraft Certification 
Service.
[FR Doc. 2018-17405 Filed 8-13-18; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE 4910-13-P
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