Airworthiness Directives; General Electric Company Turbofan Engines, 50814-50816 [2018-21863]
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50814
Federal Register / Vol. 83, No. 196 / Wednesday, October 10, 2018 / Rules and Regulations
DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION
Federal Aviation Administration
14 CFR Part 39
[Docket No. FAA–2018–0863; Product
Identifier 2018–NE–30–AD; Amendment 39–
19423; AD 2018–19–22]
RIN 2120–AA64
Airworthiness Directives; General
Electric Company Turbofan Engines
Federal Aviation
Administration (FAA), DOT.
ACTION: Final rule; request for
comments.
AGENCY:
We are adopting a new
airworthiness directive (AD) for all
General Electric Company (GE) CF34–
10A16, CF34–10E2A1, CF34–10E5,
CF34–10E5A1, CF34–10E6, CF34–
10E6A1, CF34–10E7, and CF34–10E7–B
turbofan engines with certain highpressure turbine (HPT) front rotating air
seals. This AD requires replacement of
the affected HPT front rotating air seal.
This AD was prompted by cracks found
in the HPT front rotating air seal. We are
issuing this AD to address the unsafe
condition on these products.
DATES: This AD is effective October 25,
2018.
The Director of the Federal Register
approved the incorporation by reference
of a certain publication listed in this AD
as of October 25, 2018.
We must receive comments on this
AD by November 26, 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: 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 final rule, contact General Electric
Company, 1 Neumann Way, Cincinnati,
OH 45215; telephone 513–552–3272;
email: aviation.fleetsupport@ge.com.
You may view this service information
at the FAA, Engine and Propeller
Standards Branch, 1200 District
daltland on DSKBBV9HB2PROD with RULES
SUMMARY:
VerDate Sep<11>2014
16:31 Oct 09, 2018
Jkt 247001
Avenue, Burlington, MA 01803. 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–
0863.
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–
0863; 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 street address for the
Docket Operations (phone: 800–647–
5527) is listed above. Comments will be
available in the AD docket shortly after
receipt.
FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT:
Michael Richardson-Bach, Aerospace
Engineer, ECO Branch, FAA, 1200
District Avenue, Burlington, MA 01803;
phone: 781–238–7747; fax: 781–238–
7199; email: michael.richardson-bach@
faa.gov.
SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION:
Discussion
We received a report that multiple
cracks were found in the HPT front
rotating air seal during a scheduled
shop visit. After further investigation,
GE determined that a rabbet surface on
certain parts was not shot-peened after
machining during the original
manufacturing. The lack of shot-peening
caused the parts to be more susceptible
to crack initiation. This condition, if not
addressed, could result in uncontained
HPT front rotating air seal release,
damage to the engine, and damage to the
airplane. We are issuing this AD to
address the unsafe condition on these
products.
Related Service Information Under 1
CFR Part 51
We reviewed GE CF34–10E Service
Bulletin (SB) 72–0347 R00, dated
August 3, 2018. The SB describes
procedures for inspection and repair or
replacement of the affected HPT front
rotating air seals. 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 issuing this AD because we
evaluated all the relevant information
PO 00000
Frm 00010
Fmt 4700
Sfmt 4700
and determined the unsafe condition
described previously is likely to exist or
develop in other products of the same
type design.
AD Requirements
This AD requires replacement of the
affected HPT front rotating air seal.
Differences Between the AD and the
Service Information
GE CF34–10E SB 72–0347 R00, dated
August 3, 2018, recommends inspecting
affected HPT front rotating air seal and
repairing parts that do not have linear
indications. This AD does not require
inspecting or repairing the affected HPT
front rotating air seal but allows
installation of parts that have been
inspected and repaired.
FAA’s Justification and Determination
of the Effective Date
An unsafe condition exists that
requires the immediate adoption of this
AD without providing an opportunity
for public comments prior to adoption.
The FAA has found that the risk to the
flying public justifies waiving notice
and comment prior to adoption of this
rule because the compliance time for the
required action is shorter than the time
necessary for the public to comment and
for us to publish the final rule. The
highest risk HPT front rotating air seals
must be removed within approximately
one month to ensure that they are
replaced before cracks develop that
could result in the failure of these seals.
Therefore, we find good cause that
notice and opportunity for prior public
comment are impracticable. In addition,
for the reasons stated above, we find
that good cause exists for making this
amendment effective in less than 30
days.
Comments Invited
This AD is a final rule that involves
requirements affecting flight safety and
was not preceded by notice and an
opportunity for public comment.
However, we invite you to send any
written data, views, or arguments about
this final rule. Send your comments to
an address listed under the ADDRESSES
section. Include the docket number
FAA–2018–0863 and Product Identifier
2018–NE–30–AD at the beginning of
your comments. We specifically invite
comments on the overall regulatory,
economic, environmental, and energy
aspects of this final rule. We will
consider all comments received by the
closing date and may amend this final
rule because of those comments.
We will post all comments we
receive, without change, to https://
www.regulations.gov, including any
E:\FR\FM\10OCR1.SGM
10OCR1
Federal Register / Vol. 83, No. 196 / Wednesday, October 10, 2018 / Rules and Regulations
personal information you provide. We
will also post a report summarizing each
substantive verbal contact we receive
about this final rule.
Costs of Compliance
We estimate that this AD affects three
engines installed on airplanes of U.S.
registry.
50815
We estimate the following costs to
comply with this AD:
ESTIMATED COSTS
Action
Labor cost
Replace the HPT front rotating
air seal.
2 work-hours × $85 per hour = $170 .....................................
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.
daltland on DSKBBV9HB2PROD with RULES
Regulatory Findings
This AD will not have federalism
implications under Executive Order
13132. This AD will not have a
substantial direct effect on the States, on
the relationship between the national
government and the States, or on the
distribution of power and
responsibilities among the various
levels of government.
For the reasons discussed above, I
certify that this AD:
(1) Is not a ‘‘significant regulatory
action’’ under Executive Order 12866,
VerDate Sep<11>2014
16:31 Oct 09, 2018
Jkt 247001
Parts cost
(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
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):
■
2018–19–22 General Electric Company:
Amendment 39–19423; Docket No.
FAA–2018–0863; Product Identifier
2018–NE–30–AD.
(a) Effective Date
This AD is effective October 25, 2018.
(b) Affected ADs
None.
(c) Applicability
This AD applies to all General Electric
Company (GE) CF34–10A16, CF34–10E2A1,
CF34–10E5, CF34–10E5A1, CF34–10E6,
CF34–10E6A1, CF34–10E7, and CF34–10E7–
B turbofan engines with high-pressure
turbine (HPT) front rotating air seals listed in
Appendices A and B, of GE CF34–10E
Service Bulletin (SB) 72–0347 R00, dated
August 3, 2018, that were not inspected and
repaired using GE CF34–10E SB 72–0347
R00, dated August 3, 2018.
PO 00000
Frm 00011
Fmt 4700
Sfmt 4700
$243,700
Cost per
product
$243,870
Cost on U.S.
operators
$731,610
(d) Subject
Joint Aircraft System Component (JASC)
Code 7250, Turbine Engine Turbine Section.
(e) Unsafe Condition
This AD was prompted by cracks found in
the HPT front rotating air seal. We are issuing
this AD to prevent failure of the HPT front
rotating air seal. The unsafe condition, if not
addressed, could result in an uncontained
release of the HPT front rotating air seal,
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) Remove the HPT front rotating air seal
listed in Appendix A, of GE CF34–10E SB
72–0347 R00, dated August 3, 2018, and
replace with a part eligible for installation
within the following cycles:
(i) If the HPT front rotating air seal has
17,499 cycles since new (CSN) or more on
the effective date of this AD, remove within
250 cycles in service (CIS).
(ii) If the HPT front rotating air seal has
16,500 to 17,498 CSN on the effective date of
this AD, remove within 500 CIS but not to
exceed 17,750 CSN.
(iii) If the HPT front rotating air seal has
15,500 to 16,499 CSN on the effective date of
this AD, remove within 750 CIS but not to
exceed 17,000 CSN.
(iv) If the HPT front rotating air seal has
14,500 to 15,499 on the effective date of this
AD, remove within 1,000 CIS but not to
exceed 16,250 CSN.
(v) If the HPT front rotating air seal has
12,800 to 14,499 on the effective date of this
AD, remove within 1,500 CIS but not to
exceed 15,500 CSN.
(vi) If the HPT front rotating air seal has
10,800 to 12,799 CSN on the effective date of
this AD, remove within 2,000 CIS but not to
exceed 14,300 CSN.
(vii) If the HPT front rotating air seal has
8,450 to 10,799 CSN on the effective date of
this AD, remove within 2,500 CIS but not to
exceed 12,800 CSN.
(viii) If the HPT front rotating air seal has
fewer than 8,450 CSN on the effective date
of this AD, remove at next piece-part
exposure or before accumulating 10,950 CSN,
whichever comes first.
(2) Remove the HPT front rotating air seal,
listed in Appendix B, of GE CF34–10E SB
72–0347 R00, dated August 3, 2018, from
E:\FR\FM\10OCR1.SGM
10OCR1
50816
Federal Register / Vol. 83, No. 196 / Wednesday, October 10, 2018 / Rules and Regulations
service and replace with a part eligible for
installation before exceeding the CSN listed
in Appendix B, of GE CF34–10E SB 72–0347
R00, dated August 3, 2018.
(h) Definitions
(1) For the purpose of this AD, a part that
is ‘‘eligible for installation’’ is defined as:
(i) An HPT front rotating air seal with a
part number (P/N) and serial number (S/N)
that is not listed in Appendix A or B, of GE
CF34–10E SB 72–0347 R00, dated August 3,
2018; or,
(ii) an HPT front rotating air seal with a P/
N and S/N listed in Appendix A or B, of GE
CF34–10E SB 72–0347 R00, dated August 3,
2018, that was inspected and repaired using
GE SB CF34–10E SB 72–0347 R00, dated
August 3, 2018.
(2) For the purpose of this AD, ‘‘piece-part
exposure’’ is defined as the separation of the
HPT front rotating air seal from the disk.
A special flight permit will not be issued.
(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) 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.
daltland on DSKBBV9HB2PROD with RULES
(k) Related Information
For more information about this AD,
contact Michael Richardson-Bach, Aerospace
Engineer, ECO Branch, FAA, 1200 District
Avenue, Burlington, MA 01803; phone: 781–
238–7747; fax: 781–238–7199; email:
michael.richardson-bach@faa.gov.
(l) Material Incorporated by Reference
(1) The Director of the Federal Register
approved the incorporation by reference
(IBR) of the service information listed in this
paragraph under 5 U.S.C. 552(a) and 1 CFR
part 51.
(2) You must use this service information
as applicable to do the actions required by
this AD, unless the AD specifies otherwise.
(i) General Electric Company CF34–10E
Service Bulletin 72–0347 R00, dated August
3, 2018.
(ii) Reserved.
(3) For service information identified in
this AD, contact General Electric Company,
1 Neumann Way, Cincinnati, OH 45215;
telephone 513–552–3272; email:
aviation.fleetsupport@ge.com.
(4) You may view this service information
at the FAA, Engine and Propeller Standards
Branch, 1200 District Avenue, Burlington,
MA 01803. For information on the
16:31 Oct 09, 2018
Issued in Burlington, Massachusetts, on
September 28, 2018.
Robert J. Ganley,
Manager, Engine and Propeller Standards
Branch, Aircraft Certification Service.
[FR Doc. 2018–21863 Filed 10–9–18; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE 4910–13–P
DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION
Federal Aviation Administration
(i) Special Flight Permit
VerDate Sep<11>2014
availability of this material at the FAA, call
781–238–7759.
(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.
Jkt 247001
14 CFR Part 39
[Docket No. FAA–2017–0504; Product
Identifier 2017–NE–12–AD; Amendment 39–
19415; AD 2018–19–15]
RIN 2120–AA64
Airworthiness Directives; GEVEN
S.p.A. Seat Assemblies, Type D1–02
and D1–03
Federal Aviation
Administration (FAA), DOT.
ACTION: Final rule.
We are adopting a new
airworthiness directive (AD) for certain
GEVEN S.p.A. (Geven) Type D1–02 and
D1–03 seat assemblies. This AD was
prompted by a report that seat belt
attachment bolts were found detached
or partially detached from the seat. This
AD requires inspection, torque
verification, and modification of certain
model seats. We are issuing this AD to
address the unsafe condition on these
products.
SUMMARY:
This AD is effective November
14, 2018.
The Director of the Federal Register
approved the incorporation by reference
of a certain publication listed in this AD
as of November 14, 2018.
ADDRESSES: For service information
identified in this final rule, contact
Geven Technical Assistance
Department, Via Boscofangone, Zona
Industriale Nola-Marigliano, 80035 Nola
(NA), Italy; phone: +39 081 31 21 396;
fax: +39 081 31 21 321; email:
Technical.assistance@geven.com. You
may view this service information at the
FAA, Engine & Propeller Standards
Branch, 1200 District Avenue,
Burlington, MA 01803. For information
on the availability of this material at the
PO 00000
Frm 00012
Fmt 4700
Sfmt 4700
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–
0504; 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 mandatory continuing airworthiness
information (MCAI), the regulatory
evaluation, any comments received, and
other information. The address for
Docket Operations (phone: 800–647–
5527) is 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: Neil
Doh, Aerospace Engineer, Boston ACO
Branch, FAA, 1200 District Avenue,
Burlington, MA 01803; phone: 781–
238–7757; fax: 781–238–7199; email:
neil.doh@faa.gov.
SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION:
Discussion
AGENCY:
DATES:
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–2017–
0504.
We issued a notice of proposed
rulemaking (NPRM) to amend 14 CFR
part 39 by adding an AD that would
apply to certain Geven, Type D1–02 and
D1–03 seat assemblies. The NPRM
published in the Federal Register on
July 14, 2017 (82 FR 32494). The NPRM
was prompted by a report that seat belt
attachment bolts were found detached
or partially detached from the seat. The
NPRM proposed to require inspection,
torque verification, and modification of
certain model seats. We are issuing this
AD to address the unsafe condition on
these products.
The European Aviation Safety Agency
(EASA), which is the Technical Agent
for the Member States of the European
Community, has issued EASA AD 2014–
0187, dated August 20, 2014 (referred to
after this as ‘‘the MCAI’’), to address the
unsafe condition on these products. The
MCAI states:
An operator reported that seat belt
attachment bolts were found detached or
partially detached from the seat. A further
check on several aeroplanes revealed that on
a large number of seats of the same model,
the seat belt attachment bolts were not
properly torqued and secured as defined.
This condition, if not detected and corrected,
could lead to failure of the seats to perform
their intended function, possibly resulting in
injury to occupants in case of an emergency
landing. To address this potential unsafe
E:\FR\FM\10OCR1.SGM
10OCR1
Agencies
[Federal Register Volume 83, Number 196 (Wednesday, October 10, 2018)]
[Rules and Regulations]
[Pages 50814-50816]
From the Federal Register Online via the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]
[FR Doc No: 2018-21863]
[[Page 50814]]
=======================================================================
-----------------------------------------------------------------------
DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION
Federal Aviation Administration
14 CFR Part 39
[Docket No. FAA-2018-0863; Product Identifier 2018-NE-30-AD; Amendment
39-19423; AD 2018-19-22]
RIN 2120-AA64
Airworthiness Directives; General Electric Company Turbofan
Engines
AGENCY: Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), DOT.
ACTION: Final rule; request for comments.
-----------------------------------------------------------------------
SUMMARY: We are adopting a new airworthiness directive (AD) for all
General Electric Company (GE) CF34-10A16, CF34-10E2A1, CF34-10E5, CF34-
10E5A1, CF34-10E6, CF34-10E6A1, CF34-10E7, and CF34-10E7-B turbofan
engines with certain high-pressure turbine (HPT) front rotating air
seals. This AD requires replacement of the affected HPT front rotating
air seal. This AD was prompted by cracks found in the HPT front
rotating air seal. We are issuing this AD to address the unsafe
condition on these products.
DATES: This AD is effective October 25, 2018.
The Director of the Federal Register approved the incorporation by
reference of a certain publication listed in this AD as of October 25,
2018.
We must receive comments on this AD by November 26, 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: 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 final rule, contact
General Electric Company, 1 Neumann Way, Cincinnati, OH 45215;
telephone 513-552-3272; email: [email protected]. 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. It is also available on the internet at https://www.regulations.gov by searching for and locating Docket No. FAA-2018-
0863.
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-
0863; 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 street address for the Docket Operations (phone:
800-647-5527) is listed above. Comments will be available in the AD
docket shortly after receipt.
FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Michael Richardson-Bach, Aerospace
Engineer, ECO Branch, FAA, 1200 District Avenue, Burlington, MA 01803;
phone: 781-238-7747; fax: 781-238-7199; email: [email protected].
SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION:
Discussion
We received a report that multiple cracks were found in the HPT
front rotating air seal during a scheduled shop visit. After further
investigation, GE determined that a rabbet surface on certain parts was
not shot-peened after machining during the original manufacturing. The
lack of shot-peening caused the parts to be more susceptible to crack
initiation. This condition, if not addressed, could result in
uncontained HPT front rotating air seal release, damage to the engine,
and damage to the airplane. We are issuing this AD to address the
unsafe condition on these products.
Related Service Information Under 1 CFR Part 51
We reviewed GE CF34-10E Service Bulletin (SB) 72-0347 R00, dated
August 3, 2018. The SB describes procedures for inspection and repair
or replacement of the affected HPT front rotating air seals. 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 issuing this AD because we evaluated all the relevant
information and determined the unsafe condition described previously is
likely to exist or develop in other products of the same type design.
AD Requirements
This AD requires replacement of the affected HPT front rotating air
seal.
Differences Between the AD and the Service Information
GE CF34-10E SB 72-0347 R00, dated August 3, 2018, recommends
inspecting affected HPT front rotating air seal and repairing parts
that do not have linear indications. This AD does not require
inspecting or repairing the affected HPT front rotating air seal but
allows installation of parts that have been inspected and repaired.
FAA's Justification and Determination of the Effective Date
An unsafe condition exists that requires the immediate adoption of
this AD without providing an opportunity for public comments prior to
adoption. The FAA has found that the risk to the flying public
justifies waiving notice and comment prior to adoption of this rule
because the compliance time for the required action is shorter than the
time necessary for the public to comment and for us to publish the
final rule. The highest risk HPT front rotating air seals must be
removed within approximately one month to ensure that they are replaced
before cracks develop that could result in the failure of these seals.
Therefore, we find good cause that notice and opportunity for prior
public comment are impracticable. In addition, for the reasons stated
above, we find that good cause exists for making this amendment
effective in less than 30 days.
Comments Invited
This AD is a final rule that involves requirements affecting flight
safety and was not preceded by notice and an opportunity for public
comment. However, we invite you to send any written data, views, or
arguments about this final rule. Send your comments to an address
listed under the ADDRESSES section. Include the docket number FAA-2018-
0863 and Product Identifier 2018-NE-30-AD at the beginning of your
comments. We specifically invite comments on the overall regulatory,
economic, environmental, and energy aspects of this final rule. We will
consider all comments received by the closing date and may amend this
final rule because of those comments.
We will post all comments we receive, without change, to https://www.regulations.gov, including any
[[Page 50815]]
personal information you provide. We will also post a report
summarizing each substantive verbal contact we receive about this final
rule.
Costs of Compliance
We estimate that this AD affects three 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
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Replace the HPT front rotating air 2 work-hours x $85 per hour $243,700 $243,870 $731,610
seal. = $170.
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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
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):
2018-19-22 General Electric Company: Amendment 39-19423; Docket No.
FAA-2018-0863; Product Identifier 2018-NE-30-AD.
(a) Effective Date
This AD is effective October 25, 2018.
(b) Affected ADs
None.
(c) Applicability
This AD applies to all General Electric Company (GE) CF34-10A16,
CF34-10E2A1, CF34-10E5, CF34-10E5A1, CF34-10E6, CF34-10E6A1, CF34-
10E7, and CF34-10E7-B turbofan engines with high-pressure turbine
(HPT) front rotating air seals listed in Appendices A and B, of GE
CF34-10E Service Bulletin (SB) 72-0347 R00, dated August 3, 2018,
that were not inspected and repaired using GE CF34-10E SB 72-0347
R00, dated August 3, 2018.
(d) Subject
Joint Aircraft System Component (JASC) Code 7250, Turbine Engine
Turbine Section.
(e) Unsafe Condition
This AD was prompted by cracks found in the HPT front rotating
air seal. We are issuing this AD to prevent failure of the HPT front
rotating air seal. The unsafe condition, if not addressed, could
result in an uncontained release of the HPT front rotating air seal,
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) Remove the HPT front rotating air seal listed in Appendix A,
of GE CF34-10E SB 72-0347 R00, dated August 3, 2018, and replace
with a part eligible for installation within the following cycles:
(i) If the HPT front rotating air seal has 17,499 cycles since
new (CSN) or more on the effective date of this AD, remove within
250 cycles in service (CIS).
(ii) If the HPT front rotating air seal has 16,500 to 17,498 CSN
on the effective date of this AD, remove within 500 CIS but not to
exceed 17,750 CSN.
(iii) If the HPT front rotating air seal has 15,500 to 16,499
CSN on the effective date of this AD, remove within 750 CIS but not
to exceed 17,000 CSN.
(iv) If the HPT front rotating air seal has 14,500 to 15,499 on
the effective date of this AD, remove within 1,000 CIS but not to
exceed 16,250 CSN.
(v) If the HPT front rotating air seal has 12,800 to 14,499 on
the effective date of this AD, remove within 1,500 CIS but not to
exceed 15,500 CSN.
(vi) If the HPT front rotating air seal has 10,800 to 12,799 CSN
on the effective date of this AD, remove within 2,000 CIS but not to
exceed 14,300 CSN.
(vii) If the HPT front rotating air seal has 8,450 to 10,799 CSN
on the effective date of this AD, remove within 2,500 CIS but not to
exceed 12,800 CSN.
(viii) If the HPT front rotating air seal has fewer than 8,450
CSN on the effective date of this AD, remove at next piece-part
exposure or before accumulating 10,950 CSN, whichever comes first.
(2) Remove the HPT front rotating air seal, listed in Appendix
B, of GE CF34-10E SB 72-0347 R00, dated August 3, 2018, from
[[Page 50816]]
service and replace with a part eligible for installation before
exceeding the CSN listed in Appendix B, of GE CF34-10E SB 72-0347
R00, dated August 3, 2018.
(h) Definitions
(1) For the purpose of this AD, a part that is ``eligible for
installation'' is defined as:
(i) An HPT front rotating air seal with a part number (P/N) and
serial number (S/N) that is not listed in Appendix A or B, of GE
CF34-10E SB 72-0347 R00, dated August 3, 2018; or,
(ii) an HPT front rotating air seal with a P/N and S/N listed in
Appendix A or B, of GE CF34-10E SB 72-0347 R00, dated August 3,
2018, that was inspected and repaired using GE SB CF34-10E SB 72-
0347 R00, dated August 3, 2018.
(2) For the purpose of this AD, ``piece-part exposure'' is
defined as the separation of the HPT front rotating air seal from
the disk.
(i) Special Flight Permit
A special flight permit will not be issued.
(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) 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
For more information about this AD, contact Michael Richardson-
Bach, Aerospace Engineer, ECO Branch, FAA, 1200 District Avenue,
Burlington, MA 01803; phone: 781-238-7747; fax: 781-238-7199; email:
[email protected].
(l) Material Incorporated by Reference
(1) The Director of the Federal Register approved the
incorporation by reference (IBR) of the service information listed
in this paragraph under 5 U.S.C. 552(a) and 1 CFR part 51.
(2) You must use this service information as applicable to do
the actions required by this AD, unless the AD specifies otherwise.
(i) General Electric Company CF34-10E Service Bulletin 72-0347
R00, dated August 3, 2018.
(ii) Reserved.
(3) For service information identified in this AD, contact
General Electric Company, 1 Neumann Way, Cincinnati, OH 45215;
telephone 513-552-3272; email: [email protected].
(4) 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.
(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/ibr-locations.html.
Issued in Burlington, Massachusetts, on September 28, 2018.
Robert J. Ganley,
Manager, Engine and Propeller Standards Branch, Aircraft Certification
Service.
[FR Doc. 2018-21863 Filed 10-9-18; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE 4910-13-P