Airworthiness Directives; Rolls-Royce Deutschland Ltd & Co KG (Type Certificate Previously Held by Rolls-Royce plc) Turbofan Engines, 34599-34602 [2020-12346]

Download as PDF Federal Register / Vol. 85, No. 110 / Monday, June 8, 2020 / Rules and Regulations (2) For more information about this AD, contact Kristi Bradley, Aviation Safety Engineer, Safety Management Section, Rotorcraft Standards Branch, FAA, 10101 Hillwood Pkwy., Fort Worth, TX 76177; telephone 817–222–5485; email Kristin.Bradley@faa.gov. (m) 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 this AD specifies otherwise. (i) Airbus Helicopters Alert Service Bulletin EC120–04A008, Revision 0, dated July 18, 2018. (ii) [Reserved] (3) For service information identified in this AD, contact Airbus Helicopters, 2701 N Forum Drive, Grand Prairie, TX 75052; telephone 972–641–0000 or 800–232–0323; fax 972–641–3775; or at https:// www.helicopters.airbus.com/website/en/ref/ Technical-Support_73.html. (4) You may view this service information at the 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, email fedreg.legal@nara.gov, or go to: https:// www.archives.gov/federal-register/cfr/ibrlocations.html. Issued on May 28, 2020. Lance T. Gant, Director, Compliance & Airworthiness Division, Aircraft Certification Service. [FR Doc. 2020–12342 Filed 6–5–20; 8:45 am] BILLING CODE 4910–13–P DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION Federal Aviation Administration 14 CFR Part 39 [Docket No. FAA–2019–1109; Project Identifier MCAI–2019–00115–E; Amendment 39–21135; AD 2020–12–01] RIN 2120–AA64 khammond on DSKJM1Z7X2PROD with RULES Airworthiness Directives; Rolls-Royce Deutschland Ltd & Co KG (Type Certificate Previously Held by RollsRoyce plc) Turbofan Engines Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), DOT. ACTION: Final rule. AGENCY: The FAA is adopting a new airworthiness directive (AD) for certain Rolls-Royce Deutschland Ltd. & Co KG SUMMARY: VerDate Sep<11>2014 18:41 Jun 05, 2020 Jkt 250001 (RRD) Trent XWB–75, XWB–79, XWB– 79B, and XWB–84 model turbofan engines. This AD was prompted by analysis by the manufacturer of the lowpressure compressor (LPC) outlet guide vane (OGV) assembly and LPC OGV outer mount ring assembly. The analysis predicted that when the front engine mount is in the fail-safe condition, the most highly stressed LPC OGV outer mount ring assembly has a life that could be substantially less than one shop visit interval. This AD requires initial and repetitive inspections of the LPC OGV outer mount ring assembly and, depending on the results of the inspections, possible replacement of the LPC OGV outer mount ring assembly. The FAA is issuing this AD to address the unsafe condition on these products. DATES: This AD is effective July 13, 2020. The Director of the Federal Register approved the incorporation by reference of a certain publication listed in this AD as of July 13, 2020. ADDRESSES: For service information identified in this final rule, contact Rolls-Royce Deutschland Ltd & Co KG, Eschenweg 11, 15827 BlankenfeldeMahlow, Germany; phone: +49 (0) 33 708 6 0; email: https://www.rollsroyce.com/contact-us.aspx. You may view this service information at the FAA, Airworthiness Products Section, Operational Safety 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–2019–1109. 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–2019– 1109; 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), any comments received, and other information. The address for Docket Operations 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: Stephen Elwin, Aerospace Engineer, ECO Branch, FAA, 1200 District Avenue, Burlington, MA 01803; phone: 781–238–7236; fax: 781–238–7199; email: Stephen.L.Elwin@faa.gov. PO 00000 Frm 00003 Fmt 4700 Sfmt 4700 34599 SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: Discussion The FAA issued a notice of proposed rulemaking (NPRM) to amend 14 CFR part 39 by adding an AD that would apply to certain RRD Trent XWB–75, XWB–79, XWB–79B, and XWB–84 turbofan engines. The NPRM published in the Federal Register on February 12, 2020 (85 FR 7899). The NPRM was prompted by analysis by the manufacturer of the LPC OGV assembly and LPC OGV outer mount ring assembly. The analysis predicted that when the front engine mount is in the fail-safe condition, the most highly stressed LPC OGV outer mount ring assembly has a life that could be substantially less than one shop visit interval. The NPRM proposed to require initial and repetitive inspections of the LPC OGV outer mount ring assembly and, depending on the results of the inspections, possible replacement of the LPC OGV outer mount ring assembly. The FAA is issuing this AD to address the unsafe condition on these products. The European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA), which is the Technical Agent for the Member States of the European Community, has issued EASA AD 2019–0234, dated September 19, 2019 (referred to after this as ‘‘the MCAI’’), to address the unsafe condition on these products. The MCAI states: The purpose of the engine mount is to position the engine relative to the pylon and to transfer all loads and rotational moments between the engine and pylon. The front engine mount support structure (EMSS) consists of the low pressure compressor (LPC) outlet guide vane (OGV) assembly and OGV outer mount ring assembly. Revised analysis of these parts, when the front engine mount (FEM) is engaged in the fail-safe condition, has now been undertaken using more advanced modelling techniques. This analysis predicts that, once the FEM is in the fail-safe condition, the most highly stressed LPC OGV has a life that could be substantially less than one shop visit interval. This condition, if not detected and corrected, could lead to failure of the EMSS, possibly resulting in engine separation and reduced control of the aeroplane. To address this potential unsafe condition, Rolls-Royce introduced inspections to protect against the FEM entering the failsafe condition following a failure of the OGV outer mount ring assembly lugs, and published the NMSB to provide instructions. For the reason described above, this [EASA] AD requires repetitive inspections of the OGV outer mount ring assembly lug fillet area and, depending on findings, accomplishment of applicable corrective action(s). You may obtain further information by examining the MCAI in the AD E:\FR\FM\08JNR1.SGM 08JNR1 34600 Federal Register / Vol. 85, No. 110 / Monday, June 8, 2020 / Rules and Regulations docket on the internet at https:// www.regulations.gov by searching for and locating Docket No. FAA–2019– 1109. Comments The FAA 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 Allow Replacement of the Engine Delta Air Lines, Inc. (DAL) requested that the FAA revise paragraph (g)(4)(i), Required Actions, of this AD to ‘‘Before further flight or before release to service of the engine, as applicable, replace the engine or the OGV outer mount ring assembly with a part eligible for installation.’’ DAL reasoned that neither the aircraft maintenance manual (AMM) nor Rolls-Royce plc (RR) Alert NonModification Service Bulletin (NMSB) Trent XWB 72–AK188, Revision 2, dated December 17, 2019, provide instructions on replacing the LPC OGV outer mount ring assembly. Therefore, if the LPC OGV outer mount ring assembly requires replacement, the engine will be removed per the AMM, and the LPC OGV outer mount ring assembly replaced per the engine manual. The FAA agrees that the installation of another engine with an LPC OGV outer mount ring assembly that meets the initial and repetitive inspection requirements of paragraphs (g)(1) through (3) of this AD would be acceptable. However, the FAA disagrees with adding the language suggested by DAL because the operator is only responsible for correcting the unsafe condition. The FAA identified the unsafe condition in the LPC OGV outer mount ring assembly and this AD, therefore, requires that this part be replaced. Request To Define Parts Eligible for Installation DAL commented that the proposed AD does not define what would be considered a part eligible for installation. On the other hand, the MCAI requires that the LPC OGV outer mount ring assembly be replaced with a new part. DAL suggested that a part eligible for installation include an engine that satisfies the requirements of paragraphs (g)(1) through (3) of this AD or a new LPC OGV outer mount ring assembly. The FAA agrees to add a definition of ‘‘a part eligible for installation’’ in this AD. The FAA disagrees with adding the language suggested by DAL because the FAA agrees with the MCAI requirement of replacing the LPC OGV outer mount ring assembly with a new part. As noted in the previous response, the operator may elect to install another engine that meets the initial and repetitive inspection requirements of paragraphs (g)(1) through (3) of this AD. Support for the AD The Air Line Pilots Association, International expressed support for the AD as written. Conclusion The FAA 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 and minor editorial changes. The FAA has 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. The FAA has 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 Under 1 CFR Part 51 The FAA reviewed RR Alert NMSB Trent XWB 72–AK188, Revision 2, dated December 17, 2019. The NMSB describes procedures for performing fluorescent penetrant inspections (FPIs) of the LPC OGV outer mount ring assembly. 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. Costs of Compliance The FAA estimates that this AD affects 26 engines installed on airplanes of U.S. registry. The FAA estimates the following costs to comply with this AD: ESTIMATED COSTS Action Labor cost Parts cost Cost per product Cost on U.S. operators FPI the LPC OGV outer mount ring assembly 3 work-hours × $85 per hour = $255 ............. $0 $255 $6,630 The FAA estimates the following costs to do any necessary replacements that would be required based on the results of the mandated inspection. The FAA has no way of determining the number of aircraft that might need this replacement: khammond on DSKJM1Z7X2PROD with RULES ON-CONDITION COSTS Action Labor cost Parts cost Cost per product Replace the LPC OGV outer mount ring assembly (KH10678). 8 work-hours × $85 per hour = $680 ........................... $2,418,121 $2,418,801 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 VerDate Sep<11>2014 18:41 Jun 05, 2020 Jkt 250001 the FAA Administrator. Subtitle VII: Aviation Programs, describes in more detail the scope of the Agency’s authority. The FAA is issuing this rulemaking under the authority described in PO 00000 Frm 00004 Fmt 4700 Sfmt 4700 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 E:\FR\FM\08JNR1.SGM 08JNR1 Federal Register / Vol. 85, No. 110 / Monday, June 8, 2020 / Rules and Regulations procedures the Administrator finds necessary for safety in air commerce. This regulation is within the scope of that authority because it addresses an unsafe condition that is likely to exist or develop on products identified in this rulemaking action. Regulatory Findings This AD will not have federalism implications under Executive Order 13132. This AD will not have a substantial direct effect on the States, on the relationship between the national Government and the States, or on the distribution of power and responsibilities among the various levels of government. For the reasons discussed above, I certify this AD: (1) Is not a ‘‘significant regulatory action’’ under Executive Order 12866, (2) Will not affect intrastate aviation in Alaska, and (3) 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): ■ 2020–12–01 Rolls-Royce Deutschland Ltd & Co KG (Type Certificate previously held by Rolls-Royce plc): Amendment 39– 21135; Docket No. FAA–2019–1109; Project Identifier MCAI–2019–00115–E. khammond on DSKJM1Z7X2PROD with RULES (a) Effective Date This AD is effective July 13, 2020. (b) Affected ADs None. (c) Applicability This AD applies to Rolls-Royce Deutschland Ltd. & Co KG (RRD) (Type Certificate previously held by Rolls-Royce plc) Trent XWB–75, XWB–79, XWB–79B, and XWB–84 model turbofan engines. VerDate Sep<11>2014 18:41 Jun 05, 2020 Jkt 250001 (d) Subject Joint Aircraft System Component (JASC) Code 7120, Engine Mount Section. (e) Unsafe Condition This AD was prompted by analysis by the manufacturer of the low-pressure compressor (LPC) outlet guide vane (OGV) assembly and LPC OGV outer mount ring assembly. The analysis predicted that when the front engine mount is in the fail-safe condition, the most highly stressed LPC OGV outer mount ring assembly has a life that could be substantially less than one shop visit interval. The FAA is issuing this AD to prevent failure of the front engine mount support structure. The unsafe condition, if not addressed, could result in engine separation, reduced control of the airplane, and loss of the airplane. (f) Compliance Comply with this AD within the compliance times specified, unless already done. (g) Required Actions (1) For affected RRD Trent XWB turbofan engines with 1,700 flight cycles since new (FCSN) or greater as of the effective date of this AD: (i) Within 300 flight cycles (FCs) after the effective date of this AD, perform a fluorescent penetrant inspection (FPI) of the LPC OGV outer mount ring assembly. (ii) Use Accomplishment Instructions, paragraph 3.A. or 3.B., as applicable, of RollsRoyce plc (RR) Alert Non-Modification Service Bulletin (NMSB) Trent XWB 72– AK188, Revision 2, dated December 17, 2019, to perform the FPI of the LPC OGV outer mount ring assembly. (iii) Thereafter, perform repetitive FPIs of the LPC OGV outer mount ring assembly within 1,000 FCs after the previous inspection. (2) For affected RRD Trent XWB turbofan engines with fewer than 1,700 FCSN as of the effective date of this AD: (i) Before exceeding 2,000 FCSN after the effective date of this AD, perform an FPI of the LPC OGV outer mount ring assembly. (ii) Use Accomplishment Instructions, paragraph 3.A. or 3.B., as applicable, of RR Alert NMSB Trent XWB 72–AK188, Revision 2, dated December 17, 2019, to perform the FPI of LPC OGV outer mount ring assembly. (iii) Thereafter, perform repetitive FPIs of the LPC OGV outer mount ring assembly within 1,000 FCs after the previous inspection. (3) If, during any FPI required by paragraph (g)(1) or (2) of this AD, an LPC OGV outer mount ring assembly discrepancy is detected, as defined in the Accomplishment Instructions, paragraph 3.A. or 3.B., of RR Alert NMSB Trent XWB 72–AK188, Revision 2, dated December 17, 2019, repeat the FPI within the interval specified in Accomplishment Instructions, paragraph 3.A. or 3.B., of RR Alert NMSB Trent XWB 72– AK188, Revision 2, dated December 17, 2019. (4) If, during any FPI required by paragraphs (g)(1) through (3) of this AD, an LPC OGV outer mount ring assembly is rejected as a result of the FPI, as defined in PO 00000 Frm 00005 Fmt 4700 Sfmt 4700 34601 the Accomplishment Instructions, paragraph 3.A. or 3.B., of RR Alert NMSB Trent XWB 72–AK188, Revision 2, dated December 17, 2019: (i) Before further flight, replace the LPC OGV outer mount ring assembly with a part eligible for installation. (ii) [Reserved] (h) Definition For the purpose of this AD, ‘‘a part eligible for installation’’ is a new LPC OGV outer mount ring assembly that has not been previously installed on an engine. (i) No Reporting Requirement The reporting requirements in the Accomplishment Instructions, paragraph 3, of RR Alert NMSB Trent XWB 72–AK188, Revision 2, dated December 17, 2019, are not required by this AD. (j) Credit for Previous Actions You may take credit for the initial and repetitive FPIs that are required by paragraphs (g)(1) through (3) of this AD if you performed the FPIs before the effective date of this AD using RR Alert NMSB Trent XWB 72–AK188, Revision 1, dated September 20, 2019, or Initial Issue, dated August 13, 2019. (k) 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 ECO Branch, send it to the attention of the person identified in paragraph (l)(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. (l) Related Information (1) For more information about this AD, contact Stephen Elwin, Aerospace Engineer, ECO Branch, FAA, 1200 District Avenue, Burlington, MA 01803; phone: 781–238– 7236; fax: 781–238–7199; email: Stephen.L.Elwin@faa.gov. (2) Refer to European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) AD 2019–0234, dated September 19, 2019, for more information. You may examine the EASA AD in the AD docket on the internet at https:// www.regulations.gov by searching for and locating Docket No. FAA–2019–1109. (m) 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) Rolls-Royce plc (RR) Alert NonModification Service Bulletin Trent XWB 72– AK188, Revision 2, dated December 17, 2019. E:\FR\FM\08JNR1.SGM 08JNR1 34602 Federal Register / Vol. 85, No. 110 / Monday, June 8, 2020 / Rules and Regulations (ii) [Reserved] (3) For RR service information identified in this AD, contact Rolls-Royce Deutschland Ltd & Co KG, Eschenweg 11, 15827 BlankenfeldeMahlow, Germany; phone: +49 (0) 33 708 6 0; email: https://www.rolls-royce.com/ contact-us.aspx. (4) You may view this service information at FAA, Airworthiness Products Section, Operational Safety 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, email: fedreg.legal@nara.gov, or go to: https://www.archives.gov/federal-register/cfr/ ibr-locations.html. Issued on May 27, 2020. Gaetano A. Sciortino, Deputy Director for Strategic Initiatives, Compliance & Airworthiness Division, Aircraft Certification Service. [FR Doc. 2020–12346 Filed 6–5–20; 8:45 am] BILLING CODE 4910–13–P DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION Federal Aviation Administration 14 CFR Part 71 [Docket No. FAA–2019–1030; Airspace Docket No. 19–ASW–17] RIN 2120–AA66 Amendment of Class D and E Airspace; Dallas-Fort Worth, Fort Worth, and Stephenville, TX Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), DOT. ACTION: Final rule. AGENCY: This action amends the Class D airspace at Fort Worth Spinks Airport, Fort Worth, TX, and the Class E airspace extending upward from 700 feet above the surface at Bourland Field, Fort Worth, TX, and Mesquite Metro Airport, Mesquite, TX, and Stephenville Clark Regional Airport, Stephenville, TX. These actions are the result of airspace reviews caused by the decommissioning of the Glen Rose VHF omnidirectional range (VOR) navigation aid as part of the VOR Minimum Operational Network (MON) Program. The geographic coordinates and names of several airports are also being updated to coincide with the FAA’s aeronautical database. DATES: Effective 0901 UTC, September 10, 2020. The Director of the Federal Register approves this incorporation by reference action under Title 1 Code of Federal Regulations part 51, subject to khammond on DSKJM1Z7X2PROD with RULES SUMMARY: VerDate Sep<11>2014 18:41 Jun 05, 2020 Jkt 250001 the annual revision of FAA Order 7400.11 and publication of conforming amendments. ADDRESSES: FAA Order 7400.11D, Airspace Designations and Reporting Points, and subsequent amendments can be viewed online at https:// www.faa.gov/air_traffic/publications/. For further information, you can contact the Airspace Policy Group, Federal Aviation Administration, 800 Independence Avenue SW, Washington, DC 20591; telephone: (202) 267–8783. The Order is also available for inspection at the National Archives and Records Administration (NARA). For information on the availability of FAA Order 7400.11D at NARA, email fedreg.legal@nara.gov or go to https:// www.archives.gov/federal-register/cfr/ ibr-locations.html. FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Jeffrey Claypool, Federal Aviation Administration, Operations Support Group, Central Service Center, 10101 Hillwood Parkway, Fort Worth, TX 76177; telephone (817) 222–5711. SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: Authority for This Rulemaking The FAA’s authority to issue rules regarding aviation safety is found in Title 49 of the United States Code. 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. This rulemaking is promulgated under the authority described in Subtitle VII, Part A, Subpart I, Section 40103. Under that section, the FAA is charged with prescribing regulations to assign the use of airspace necessary to ensure the safety of aircraft and the efficient use of airspace. This regulation is within the scope of that authority as it amends the Class D airspace at Fort Worth Spinks Airport, Fort Worth, TX, and the Class E airspace extending upward from 700 feet above the surface at Bourland Field, Fort Worth, TX, and Mesquite Metro Airport, Mesquite, TX, which are contained within the Dallas-Fort Worth, TX, airspace legal description, and Stephenville Clark Regional Airport, Stephenville, TX, to support instrument flight rule operations at these airports. History The FAA published a notice of proposed rulemaking in the Federal Register (85 FR 5343; January 30, 2020) for Docket No. FAA–2019–1030 to amend Class D airspace at Fort Worth Spinks Airport, Fort Worth, TX, and the Class E airspace extending upward from 700 feet above the surface at Bourland PO 00000 Frm 00006 Fmt 4700 Sfmt 4700 Field, Fort Worth, TX, and Mesquite Metro Airport, Mesquite, TX, which are contained within the Dallas-Fort Worth, TX, airspace legal description, and Stephenville Clark Regional Airport, Stephenville, TX. Interested parties were invited to participate in this rulemaking effort by submitting written comments on the proposal to the FAA. No comments were received. Class D and E airspace designations are published in paragraph 5000 and 6005, respectively, of FAA Order 7400.11D, dated August 8, 2019, and effective September 15, 2019, which is incorporated by reference in 14 CFR 71.1. The Class D and E airspace designations listed in this document will be published subsequently in the Order. Availability and Summary of Documents for Incorporation by Reference This document amends FAA Order 7400.11D, Airspace Designations and Reporting Points, dated August 8, 2019, and effective September 15, 2019. FAA Order 7400.11D is publicly available as listed in the ADDRESSES section of this document. FAA Order 7400.11D lists Class A, B, C, D, and E airspace areas, air traffic service routes, and reporting points. The Rule This amendment to Title 14 Code of Federal Regulations (14 CFR) part 71: Amends the Class D airspace at Fort Worth Spinks Airport, Fort Worth, TX, by updating the header of the airspace legal description from ‘‘Fort Worth Spinks Airport, TX’’ to ‘‘Fort Worth, TX’’ to coincide with the FAA’s aeronautical database and to comply with FAA Order 7400.2M; updates the geographic coordinates of the airport; and replaces the outdated term ‘‘Airport/Facility Directory’’ with ‘‘Chart Supplement;’’ Amends the Class E airspace extending upward from 700 feet above the surface for Dallas-Fort Worth, TX, by updating the header of the airspace legal description from ‘‘Dallas/Fort Worth, TX’’ to ‘‘Dallas-Fort Worth, TX’’ to coincide with the FAA’s aeronautical database; updating the name of DallasFort Worth International Airport (previously Dallas/Fort Worth International Airport), Dallas-Fort Worth, TX, to coincide with the FAA’s aeronautical database; removing the cities associated with McKinney National Airport, McKinney, TX; Ralph M. Hall/Rockwall Municipal Airport, Rockwall, TX; and Mesquite Metro Airport, Mesquite, TX, contained in the Dallas-Fort Worth, TX, airspace legal E:\FR\FM\08JNR1.SGM 08JNR1

Agencies

[Federal Register Volume 85, Number 110 (Monday, June 8, 2020)]
[Rules and Regulations]
[Pages 34599-34602]
From the Federal Register Online via the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]
[FR Doc No: 2020-12346]


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DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION

Federal Aviation Administration

14 CFR Part 39

[Docket No. FAA-2019-1109; Project Identifier MCAI-2019-00115-E; 
Amendment 39-21135; AD 2020-12-01]
RIN 2120-AA64


Airworthiness Directives; Rolls-Royce Deutschland Ltd & Co KG 
(Type Certificate Previously Held by Rolls-Royce plc) Turbofan Engines

AGENCY: Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), DOT.

ACTION: Final rule.

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SUMMARY: The FAA is adopting a new airworthiness directive (AD) for 
certain Rolls-Royce Deutschland Ltd. & Co KG (RRD) Trent XWB-75, XWB-
79, XWB-79B, and XWB-84 model turbofan engines. This AD was prompted by 
analysis by the manufacturer of the low-pressure compressor (LPC) 
outlet guide vane (OGV) assembly and LPC OGV outer mount ring assembly. 
The analysis predicted that when the front engine mount is in the fail-
safe condition, the most highly stressed LPC OGV outer mount ring 
assembly has a life that could be substantially less than one shop 
visit interval. This AD requires initial and repetitive inspections of 
the LPC OGV outer mount ring assembly and, depending on the results of 
the inspections, possible replacement of the LPC OGV outer mount ring 
assembly. The FAA is issuing this AD to address the unsafe condition on 
these products.

DATES: This AD is effective July 13, 2020.
    The Director of the Federal Register approved the incorporation by 
reference of a certain publication listed in this AD as of July 13, 
2020.

ADDRESSES: For service information identified in this final rule, 
contact Rolls-Royce Deutschland Ltd & Co KG, Eschenweg 11, 15827 
Blankenfelde-Mahlow, Germany; phone: +49 (0) 33 708 6 0; email: https://www.rolls-royce.com/contact-us.aspx. You may view this service 
information at the FAA, Airworthiness Products Section, Operational 
Safety 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-2019-
1109.

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-2019-
1109; 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), any comments received, and other information. The address for 
Docket Operations 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: Stephen Elwin, Aerospace Engineer, ECO 
Branch, FAA, 1200 District Avenue, Burlington, MA 01803; phone: 781-
238-7236; fax: 781-238-7199; email: [email protected].

SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: 

Discussion

    The FAA issued a notice of proposed rulemaking (NPRM) to amend 14 
CFR part 39 by adding an AD that would apply to certain RRD Trent XWB-
75, XWB-79, XWB-79B, and XWB-84 turbofan engines. The NPRM published in 
the Federal Register on February 12, 2020 (85 FR 7899). The NPRM was 
prompted by analysis by the manufacturer of the LPC OGV assembly and 
LPC OGV outer mount ring assembly. The analysis predicted that when the 
front engine mount is in the fail-safe condition, the most highly 
stressed LPC OGV outer mount ring assembly has a life that could be 
substantially less than one shop visit interval. The NPRM proposed to 
require initial and repetitive inspections of the LPC OGV outer mount 
ring assembly and, depending on the results of the inspections, 
possible replacement of the LPC OGV outer mount ring assembly. The FAA 
is issuing this AD to address the unsafe condition on these products.
    The European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA), which is the 
Technical Agent for the Member States of the European Community, has 
issued EASA AD 2019-0234, dated September 19, 2019 (referred to after 
this as ``the MCAI''), to address the unsafe condition on these 
products. The MCAI states:

    The purpose of the engine mount is to position the engine 
relative to the pylon and to transfer all loads and rotational 
moments between the engine and pylon. The front engine mount support 
structure (EMSS) consists of the low pressure compressor (LPC) 
outlet guide vane (OGV) assembly and OGV outer mount ring assembly. 
Revised analysis of these parts, when the front engine mount (FEM) 
is engaged in the fail-safe condition, has now been undertaken using 
more advanced modelling techniques. This analysis predicts that, 
once the FEM is in the fail-safe condition, the most highly stressed 
LPC OGV has a life that could be substantially less than one shop 
visit interval.
    This condition, if not detected and corrected, could lead to 
failure of the EMSS, possibly resulting in engine separation and 
reduced control of the aeroplane.
    To address this potential unsafe condition, Rolls-Royce 
introduced inspections to protect against the FEM entering the 
failsafe condition following a failure of the OGV outer mount ring 
assembly lugs, and published the NMSB to provide instructions.
    For the reason described above, this [EASA] AD requires 
repetitive inspections of the OGV outer mount ring assembly lug 
fillet area and, depending on findings, accomplishment of applicable 
corrective action(s).

    You may obtain further information by examining the MCAI in the AD

[[Page 34600]]

docket on the internet at https://www.regulations.gov by searching for 
and locating Docket No. FAA-2019-1109.

Comments

    The FAA 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 Allow Replacement of the Engine

    Delta Air Lines, Inc. (DAL) requested that the FAA revise paragraph 
(g)(4)(i), Required Actions, of this AD to ``Before further flight or 
before release to service of the engine, as applicable, replace the 
engine or the OGV outer mount ring assembly with a part eligible for 
installation.'' DAL reasoned that neither the aircraft maintenance 
manual (AMM) nor Rolls-Royce plc (RR) Alert Non-Modification Service 
Bulletin (NMSB) Trent XWB 72-AK188, Revision 2, dated December 17, 
2019, provide instructions on replacing the LPC OGV outer mount ring 
assembly. Therefore, if the LPC OGV outer mount ring assembly requires 
replacement, the engine will be removed per the AMM, and the LPC OGV 
outer mount ring assembly replaced per the engine manual.
    The FAA agrees that the installation of another engine with an LPC 
OGV outer mount ring assembly that meets the initial and repetitive 
inspection requirements of paragraphs (g)(1) through (3) of this AD 
would be acceptable. However, the FAA disagrees with adding the 
language suggested by DAL because the operator is only responsible for 
correcting the unsafe condition. The FAA identified the unsafe 
condition in the LPC OGV outer mount ring assembly and this AD, 
therefore, requires that this part be replaced.

Request To Define Parts Eligible for Installation

    DAL commented that the proposed AD does not define what would be 
considered a part eligible for installation. On the other hand, the 
MCAI requires that the LPC OGV outer mount ring assembly be replaced 
with a new part. DAL suggested that a part eligible for installation 
include an engine that satisfies the requirements of paragraphs (g)(1) 
through (3) of this AD or a new LPC OGV outer mount ring assembly.
    The FAA agrees to add a definition of ``a part eligible for 
installation'' in this AD. The FAA disagrees with adding the language 
suggested by DAL because the FAA agrees with the MCAI requirement of 
replacing the LPC OGV outer mount ring assembly with a new part. As 
noted in the previous response, the operator may elect to install 
another engine that meets the initial and repetitive inspection 
requirements of paragraphs (g)(1) through (3) of this AD.

Support for the AD

    The Air Line Pilots Association, International expressed support 
for the AD as written.

Conclusion

    The FAA 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 
and minor editorial changes. The FAA has 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.
    The FAA has 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 Under 1 CFR Part 51

    The FAA reviewed RR Alert NMSB Trent XWB 72-AK188, Revision 2, 
dated December 17, 2019. The NMSB describes procedures for performing 
fluorescent penetrant inspections (FPIs) of the LPC OGV outer mount 
ring assembly. 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.

Costs of Compliance

    The FAA estimates that this AD affects 26 engines installed on 
airplanes of U.S. registry.
    The FAA estimates the following costs to comply with this AD:

                                                 Estimated Costs
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                                    Cost per       Cost on U.S.
               Action                        Labor cost           Parts cost        product         operators
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
FPI the LPC OGV outer mount ring      3 work-hours x $85 per               $0             $255           $6,630
 assembly.                             hour = $255.
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

    The FAA estimates the following costs to do any necessary 
replacements that would be required based on the results of the 
mandated inspection. The FAA has no way of determining the number of 
aircraft that might need this replacement:

                                               On-Condition Costs
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                                                     Cost per
                    Action                                Labor cost               Parts cost        product
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Replace the LPC OGV outer mount ring assembly  8 work-hours x $85 per hour =        $2,418,121       $2,418,801
 (KH10678).                                     $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.
    The FAA is 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

[[Page 34601]]

procedures the Administrator finds necessary for safety in air 
commerce. This regulation is within the scope of that authority because 
it addresses an unsafe condition that is likely to exist or develop on 
products identified in this rulemaking action.

Regulatory Findings

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

2020-12-01 Rolls-Royce Deutschland Ltd & Co KG (Type Certificate 
previously held by Rolls-Royce plc): Amendment 39-21135; Docket No. 
FAA-2019-1109; Project Identifier MCAI-2019-00115-E.

(a) Effective Date

    This AD is effective July 13, 2020.

(b) Affected ADs

    None.

(c) Applicability

    This AD applies to Rolls-Royce Deutschland Ltd. & Co KG (RRD) 
(Type Certificate previously held by Rolls-Royce plc) Trent XWB-75, 
XWB-79, XWB-79B, and XWB-84 model turbofan engines.

(d) Subject

    Joint Aircraft System Component (JASC) Code 7120, Engine Mount 
Section.

(e) Unsafe Condition

    This AD was prompted by analysis by the manufacturer of the low-
pressure compressor (LPC) outlet guide vane (OGV) assembly and LPC 
OGV outer mount ring assembly. The analysis predicted that when the 
front engine mount is in the fail-safe condition, the most highly 
stressed LPC OGV outer mount ring assembly has a life that could be 
substantially less than one shop visit interval. The FAA is issuing 
this AD to prevent failure of the front engine mount support 
structure. The unsafe condition, if not addressed, could result in 
engine separation, reduced control of the airplane, and loss of the 
airplane.

(f) Compliance

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

(g) Required Actions

    (1) For affected RRD Trent XWB turbofan engines with 1,700 
flight cycles since new (FCSN) or greater as of the effective date 
of this AD:
    (i) Within 300 flight cycles (FCs) after the effective date of 
this AD, perform a fluorescent penetrant inspection (FPI) of the LPC 
OGV outer mount ring assembly.
    (ii) Use Accomplishment Instructions, paragraph 3.A. or 3.B., as 
applicable, of Rolls-Royce plc (RR) Alert Non-Modification Service 
Bulletin (NMSB) Trent XWB 72-AK188, Revision 2, dated December 17, 
2019, to perform the FPI of the LPC OGV outer mount ring assembly.
    (iii) Thereafter, perform repetitive FPIs of the LPC OGV outer 
mount ring assembly within 1,000 FCs after the previous inspection.
    (2) For affected RRD Trent XWB turbofan engines with fewer than 
1,700 FCSN as of the effective date of this AD:
    (i) Before exceeding 2,000 FCSN after the effective date of this 
AD, perform an FPI of the LPC OGV outer mount ring assembly.
    (ii) Use Accomplishment Instructions, paragraph 3.A. or 3.B., as 
applicable, of RR Alert NMSB Trent XWB 72-AK188, Revision 2, dated 
December 17, 2019, to perform the FPI of LPC OGV outer mount ring 
assembly.
    (iii) Thereafter, perform repetitive FPIs of the LPC OGV outer 
mount ring assembly within 1,000 FCs after the previous inspection.
    (3) If, during any FPI required by paragraph (g)(1) or (2) of 
this AD, an LPC OGV outer mount ring assembly discrepancy is 
detected, as defined in the Accomplishment Instructions, paragraph 
3.A. or 3.B., of RR Alert NMSB Trent XWB 72-AK188, Revision 2, dated 
December 17, 2019, repeat the FPI within the interval specified in 
Accomplishment Instructions, paragraph 3.A. or 3.B., of RR Alert 
NMSB Trent XWB 72-AK188, Revision 2, dated December 17, 2019.
    (4) If, during any FPI required by paragraphs (g)(1) through (3) 
of this AD, an LPC OGV outer mount ring assembly is rejected as a 
result of the FPI, as defined in the Accomplishment Instructions, 
paragraph 3.A. or 3.B., of RR Alert NMSB Trent XWB 72-AK188, 
Revision 2, dated December 17, 2019:
    (i) Before further flight, replace the LPC OGV outer mount ring 
assembly with a part eligible for installation.
    (ii) [Reserved]

(h) Definition

    For the purpose of this AD, ``a part eligible for installation'' 
is a new LPC OGV outer mount ring assembly that has not been 
previously installed on an engine.

(i) No Reporting Requirement

    The reporting requirements in the Accomplishment Instructions, 
paragraph 3, of RR Alert NMSB Trent XWB 72-AK188, Revision 2, dated 
December 17, 2019, are not required by this AD.

(j) Credit for Previous Actions

    You may take credit for the initial and repetitive FPIs that are 
required by paragraphs (g)(1) through (3) of this AD if you 
performed the FPIs before the effective date of this AD using RR 
Alert NMSB Trent XWB 72-AK188, Revision 1, dated September 20, 2019, 
or Initial Issue, dated August 13, 2019.

(k) 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 
ECO Branch, send it to the attention of the person identified in 
paragraph (l)(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.

(l) Related Information

    (1) For more information about this AD, contact Stephen Elwin, 
Aerospace Engineer, ECO Branch, FAA, 1200 District Avenue, 
Burlington, MA 01803; phone: 781-238-7236; fax: 781-238-7199; email: 
[email protected].
    (2) Refer to European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) AD 
2019-0234, dated September 19, 2019, for more information. You may 
examine the EASA AD in the AD docket on the internet at https://www.regulations.gov by searching for and locating Docket No. FAA-
2019-1109.

(m) 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) Rolls-Royce plc (RR) Alert Non-Modification Service Bulletin 
Trent XWB 72-AK188, Revision 2, dated December 17, 2019.

[[Page 34602]]

    (ii) [Reserved]
    (3) For RR service information identified in this AD, contact 
Rolls-Royce Deutschland Ltd & Co KG, Eschenweg 11, 15827 
Blankenfelde-Mahlow, Germany; phone: +49 (0) 33 708 6 0; email: 
https://www.rolls-royce.com/contact-us.aspx.
    (4) You may view this service information at FAA, Airworthiness 
Products Section, Operational Safety 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, email: [email protected], or go to: https://www.archives.gov/federal-register/cfr/ibr-locations.html.

    Issued on May 27, 2020.
Gaetano A. Sciortino,
Deputy Director for Strategic Initiatives, Compliance & Airworthiness 
Division, Aircraft Certification Service.
[FR Doc. 2020-12346 Filed 6-5-20; 8:45 am]
 BILLING CODE 4910-13-P
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