Airworthiness Directives; Rolls-Royce Deutschland Ltd & Co KG (Type Certificate Previously Held by Rolls-Royce plc) Turbofan Engines, 49959-49961 [2020-17822]

Download as PDF Federal Register / Vol. 85, No. 159 / Monday, August 17, 2020 / Rules and Regulations (d) Subject Air Transport Association of America (ATA) Code 53: Fuselage. (e) Reason This AD was prompted by mandatory continuing airworthiness information (MCAI) originated by an aviation authority of another country to identify and correct an unsafe condition on an aviation product. The MCAI describes the unsafe condition as cracks reported on the forward and aft float strut wire pull fittings. The FAA is issuing this AD to prevent failure of the wire pull fittings, which could reduce the strength of the float undercarriage below the required structural capability, resulting in a failure of the undercarriage causing the airplane to tip over and submerge. (f) Actions and Compliance Unless already done, do the following actions. (1) Within 90 days after August 17, 2020 (the effective date of this AD): (i) Replace each forward wire pull fitting P/N VALTBS1245–1 and P/N VALTBS1245– 2 with P/N VALTBS1245–3 Left Hand (LH) or P/N VALTBS1245–4 Right Hand (RH) by following the Accomplishment Instructions, paragraphs A.1. through A.8., of Viking DHC–2 Beaver Service Bulletin No. V2/003, Revision NC, dated November 28, 2012 (Viking SB No. V2/003); or Viking DHC–2T Beaver Service Bulletin No. V2/002, Revision A, dated September 12, 2011 (Viking SB No. V2/002, Revision A), as applicable to your model airplane. (ii) Within 110 hours time-in-service (TIS) after the replacement of the forward wire pull fittings and thereafter at intervals not to exceed 110 hours TIS, visually inspect each forward wire pull fitting for corrosion and cracks. If there is any corrosion or a crack, before further flight, replace the fitting with fitting P/N VALTBS1245–3 (LH) or P/N VALTBS1245–4 (RH). (2) Within 180 days after August 17, 2020 (the effective date of this AD): (i) Replace each aft wire pull fitting P/N VALTBS1244–1 with P/N VALTBS1244–3 (LH) or P/N VALTBS1244–4 (RH) by following the Accomplishment Instructions, paragraphs B.1. through B.8., of Viking SB No. V2/003 or Viking SB No. V2/002, Revision A, as applicable to your model airplane. (ii) Within 110 hours TIS after the replacement of the aft wire pull fittings and thereafter at intervals not to exceed 110 hours TIS, visually inspect each aft wire pull fitting for corrosion and cracks. If there is any corrosion or a crack, before further flight, replace the fitting with fitting P/N VALTBS1244–3 (LH) or P/N VALTBS1244–4 (RH). (g) Alternative Methods of Compliance (AMOCs) The Manager, Small Airplane Standards Branch, FAA, has the authority to approve AMOCs for this AD, if requested using the procedures found in 14 CFR 39.19. Send information to ATTN: Aziz Ahmed, Aerospace Engineer, FAA, New York ACO Branch, 1600 Stewart Avenue, Suite 410, VerDate Sep<11>2014 16:18 Aug 14, 2020 Jkt 250001 Westbury, New York 11590; telephone: (516) 287–7329; fax: (516) 794–5531; email:. Before using any approved AMOC on any airplane to which the AMOC applies, notify your appropriate principal inspector (PI) in the FAA Flight Standards District Office (FSDO), or lacking a PI, your local FSDO. (h) Related Information DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION Federal Aviation Administration 14 CFR Part 39 [Docket No. FAA–2020–0265; Project Identifier MCAI–2019–00131–E; Amendment 39–21201; AD 2020–16–17] Refer to MCAI Transport Canada AD Number CF–2018–10, dated April 18, 2018, for related information. The MCAI can be found in the AD docket on the internet at: https://www.regulations.gov/docket?D=FAA2019-0045. RIN 2120–AA64 (i) Material Incorporated by Reference AGENCY: (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) Viking DHC–2 Beaver Service Bulletin No. V2/003, Revision NC, dated November 28, 2012. (ii) Viking DHC–2T Beaver Service Bulletin No. V2/002, Revision A, dated September 12, 2011. (3) For service information identified in this AD, contact Viking Air Limited Technical Support, 1959 De Havilland Way, Sidney, British Columbia, Canada, V8L 5V5; telephone: (North America) (800) 663–8444; fax: (250) 656–0673; email: technical.support@vikingair.com; internet: https://www.vikingair.com/support/servicebulletins. (4) You may view this service information at the FAA, Airworthiness Products Section, Operational Safety Branch 901 Locust, Kansas City, Missouri 64106. For information on the availability of this material at the FAA, call (816) 329–4148. In addition, you can access this service information on the internet at https://www.regulations.gov by searching for and locating Docket No. FAA– 2019–0045. (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 August 4, 2020. Lance T. Gant, Director, Compliance & Airworthiness Division, Aircraft Certification Service. [FR Doc. 2020–17900 Filed 8–14–20; 8:45 am] BILLING CODE 4910–13–P PO 00000 Frm 00019 Fmt 4700 Sfmt 4700 49959 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. The FAA is adopting a new airworthiness directive (AD) for all Rolls-Royce Deutschland Ltd. & Co KG (RRD) Trent XWB–75, Trent XWB–79, Trent XWB–79B, and Trent XWB–84 model turbofan engines. This AD was prompted by reports of a lack of weld fusion on the resistance welding during manufacturing, which could result in air leakage through the low-pressure turbine (LPT) rear support seal panel assembly (‘‘LPT seal panel’’). This AD requires replacement of the LPT seal panel. The FAA is issuing this AD to address the unsafe condition on these products. SUMMARY: This AD is effective September 21, 2020. The Director of the Federal Register approved the incorporation by reference of a certain publication listed in this AD as of September 21, 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–2020–0265. DATES: 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–2020– 0265; 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, E:\FR\FM\17AUR1.SGM 17AUR1 49960 Federal Register / Vol. 85, No. 159 / Monday, August 17, 2020 / Rules and Regulations 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. 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 all RRD Trent XWB–75, Trent XWB–79, Trent XWB–79B, and Trent XWB–84 model turbofan engines. The NPRM published in the Federal Register on March 30, 2020 (85 FR 17513). The NPRM was prompted by reports of a lack of weld fusion on the resistance welding during manufacturing, which could result in air leakage through the LPT seal panel. The NPRM proposed to require replacement of the LPT seal panel. 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 2019–0071, dated March 28, 2019 (referred to after this as ‘‘the MCAI’’), to address the unsafe condition on these products. The MCAI states: The affected parts, as defined in this [EASA] AD, are static parts, located behind the intermediate pressure (IP) turbine 2 disc, forming a seal between the IP and LP cavities through an interface with the rotating IP flying seal. It was recently determined that, on certain affected parts, insufficient fusion was achieved on the resistance welding during manufacturing. This condition, if not corrected, could lead to air leakage through the LP seal panel, affecting the service lives of the IP turbine 2 and LP turbine 1 discs, possibly resulting in premature disc failure and high energy uncontained debris release from the engine, with consequent damage to, and reduced control of, the aeroplane. To address this potential unsafe condition, Rolls-Royce identified the affected parts and published the NMSB, providing instructions to replace these affected parts. For the reason described above, this [EASA] AD requires replacement of affected parts during a qualified shop visit. You may obtain further information by examining the MCAI in the AD docket on the internet at https:// www.regulations.gov by searching for and locating Docket No. FAA–2020– 0265. 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 Revise Definition of Module 51 Delta Air Lines, Inc. (DAL) requested that the definition of ‘‘module 51’’ in paragraph (h) of this AD be revised to ‘‘intermediate pressure turbine module.’’ DAL reasoned that the RRD Trent XWB Engine Manual and RollsRoyce plc (RR) Alert Non-Modification Service Bulletin (NMSB) Trent XWB 72–AJ994, Revision 2, dated August 29, 2019, both refer to module 51 as the intermediate-pressure turbine (IPT) module and refer to module 52 as the LPT module. Therefore, revising this definition would alleviate confusion. The FAA agrees and revised the definition of module 51 to read, ‘‘For the purpose of this AD, ‘module 51’ is the IPT module.’’ 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 change 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. Service Information Incorporated by Reference Under 1 CFR Part 51 The FAA reviewed RR Alert NMSB Trent XWB 72–AJ994, Revision 2, dated August 29, 2019. The Alert NMSB describes procedures for removing and replacing the LPT seal panel. 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 Replace the LPT seal panel ........................... 1 work-hour × $85 per hour = $85 ................. According to the manufacturer, all of the costs of this AD may be covered under warranty, thereby reducing the cost impact on affected individuals. The FAA does not control warranty coverage for affected individuals. As a result, the FAA has included all costs in our cost estimate. 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 VerDate Sep<11>2014 16:18 Aug 14, 2020 Jkt 250001 PO 00000 Frm 00020 Fmt 4700 Sfmt 4700 Parts cost $282,890 Cost per product $282,975 Cost on U.S. operators $7,357,350 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 E:\FR\FM\17AUR1.SGM 17AUR1 Federal Register / Vol. 85, No. 159 / Monday, August 17, 2020 / Rules and Regulations 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) Would not affect intrastate aviation in Alaska, and (3) Would 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): ■ 2020–16–17 Rolls-Royce Deutschland Ltd & Co KG (Type Certificate previously held by Rolls-Royce plc): Amendment 39– 21201; Docket No. FAA–2020–0265; Project Identifier MCAI–2019–00131–E. (a) Effective Date This AD is effective September 21, 2020. (b) Affected ADs None. (c) Applicability This AD applies to all Rolls-Royce Deutschland Ltd. & Co KG (Type Certificate previously held by Rolls-Royce plc) Trent XWB–75, Trent XWB–79, Trent XWB–79B, and Trent XWB–84 model turbofan engines. (d) Subject Joint Aircraft System Component (JASC) Code 7250, Turbine Section. VerDate Sep<11>2014 16:18 Aug 14, 2020 Jkt 250001 (e) Unsafe Condition This AD was prompted by reports of a lack of weld fusion on the resistance welding during manufacturing, which could result in air leakage through the low-pressure turbine (LPT) rear support seal panel assembly (‘‘LPT seal panel’’) causing a life reduction to the intermediate-pressure turbine (IPT) 2 and LPT 1 disks. The FAA is issuing this AD to prevent failure of the IPT 2 and LPT 1 disks. The unsafe condition, if not addressed, could result in uncontained debris release, 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 During the next qualified shop visit after the effective date of this AD, or during the current shop visit, if, on the effective date of this AD, the engine or module 51 is in a qualified shop visit, remove the affected LPT seal panel from service and replace it with a part eligible for installation in accordance with the Accomplishment Instructions, paragraph 3.A., of Rolls-Royce plc Alert NonModification Service Bulletin (NMSB) Trent XWB 72–AJ994, Revision 2, dated August 29, 2019. (h) Definitions (1) For the purpose of this AD, a ‘‘qualified shop visit’’ is a Level 4 (Overhaul) or Level 3 (Refurbishment) shop visit of an affected engine with an affected LPT seal panel installed, or Level 2 shop visit (Check and Repair) of module 51 with an affected LPT seal panel installed. (2) For the purpose of this AD, ‘‘module 51’’ is the IPT module. (3) For the purpose of this AD, an ‘‘affected LPT seal panel’’ is LPT rear support seal panel assembly, identified as catalogue serial number (CSN) 72512301890, with a serial number (S/N) listed in Appendix 1 of RR Alert NMSB Trent XWB 72–AJ994, Revision 2, dated August 29, 2019. This appendix additionally lists the module 51 S/N and engine S/N in which these panels were originally installed. (4) For the purpose of this AD, a ‘‘part eligible for installation’’ is a LPT seal panel, CSN 72512301890, with a S/N not listed in Appendix 1 of RR Alert NMSB Trent XWB 72–AJ994, Revision 2, dated August 29, 2019. (i) Credit for Previous Actions You may take credit for replacement of the LPT seal panel requirements of paragraph (g) of this AD if you performed the replacement before the effective date of this AD using RR Alert NMSB Trent XWB 72–AJ994, Revision 1, dated November 15, 2018, or Initial Issue, dated September 5, 2018. (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 PO 00000 Frm 00021 Fmt 4700 Sfmt 9990 49961 appropriate. If sending information directly to the manager of the ECO Branch, 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 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 AD 2019–0071, dated March 28, 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–2020–0265. (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) Rolls-Royce plc (RR) Alert NonModification Service Bulletin Trent XWB 72– AJ994, Revision 2, dated August 29, 2019. (ii) [Reserved] (3) For RR service information identified in this AD, contact Rolls-Royce Deutschland Ltd & Co KG, Eschenweg 11, BlankenfeldeMahlow, Germany; phone: 9 011 49 03370860. (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/ibrlocations.html. Issued on July 29, 2020. Gaetano A. Sciortino, Deputy Director for Strategic Initiatives, Compliance & Airworthiness Division, Aircraft Certification Service. [FR Doc. 2020–17822 Filed 8–14–20; 8:45 am] BILLING CODE 4910–13–P E:\FR\FM\17AUR1.SGM 17AUR1

Agencies

[Federal Register Volume 85, Number 159 (Monday, August 17, 2020)]
[Rules and Regulations]
[Pages 49959-49961]
From the Federal Register Online via the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]
[FR Doc No: 2020-17822]


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

DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION

Federal Aviation Administration

14 CFR Part 39

[Docket No. FAA-2020-0265; Project Identifier MCAI-2019-00131-E; 
Amendment 39-21201; AD 2020-16-17]
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.

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

SUMMARY: The FAA is adopting a new airworthiness directive (AD) for all 
Rolls-Royce Deutschland Ltd. & Co KG (RRD) Trent XWB-75, Trent XWB-79, 
Trent XWB-79B, and Trent XWB-84 model turbofan engines. This AD was 
prompted by reports of a lack of weld fusion on the resistance welding 
during manufacturing, which could result in air leakage through the 
low-pressure turbine (LPT) rear support seal panel assembly (``LPT seal 
panel''). This AD requires replacement of the LPT seal panel. The FAA 
is issuing this AD to address the unsafe condition on these products.

DATES: This AD is effective September 21, 2020.
    The Director of the Federal Register approved the incorporation by 
reference of a certain publication listed in this AD as of September 
21, 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-2020-
0265.

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-2020-
0265; 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,

[[Page 49960]]

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 all RRD Trent XWB-75, 
Trent XWB-79, Trent XWB-79B, and Trent XWB-84 model turbofan engines. 
The NPRM published in the Federal Register on March 30, 2020 (85 FR 
17513). The NPRM was prompted by reports of a lack of weld fusion on 
the resistance welding during manufacturing, which could result in air 
leakage through the LPT seal panel. The NPRM proposed to require 
replacement of the LPT seal panel. 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 2019-0071, dated March 28, 2019 (referred to after this 
as ``the MCAI''), to address the unsafe condition on these products. 
The MCAI states:

    The affected parts, as defined in this [EASA] AD, are static 
parts, located behind the intermediate pressure (IP) turbine 2 disc, 
forming a seal between the IP and LP cavities through an interface 
with the rotating IP flying seal. It was recently determined that, 
on certain affected parts, insufficient fusion was achieved on the 
resistance welding during manufacturing.
    This condition, if not corrected, could lead to air leakage 
through the LP seal panel, affecting the service lives of the IP 
turbine 2 and LP turbine 1 discs, possibly resulting in premature 
disc failure and high energy uncontained debris release from the 
engine, with consequent damage to, and reduced control of, the 
aeroplane.
    To address this potential unsafe condition, Rolls-Royce 
identified the affected parts and published the NMSB, providing 
instructions to replace these affected parts.
    For the reason described above, this [EASA] AD requires 
replacement of affected parts during a qualified shop visit.

    You may obtain further information by examining the MCAI in the AD 
docket on the internet at https://www.regulations.gov by searching for 
and locating Docket No. FAA-2020-0265.

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 Revise Definition of Module 51

    Delta Air Lines, Inc. (DAL) requested that the definition of 
``module 51'' in paragraph (h) of this AD be revised to ``intermediate 
pressure turbine module.'' DAL reasoned that the RRD Trent XWB Engine 
Manual and Rolls-Royce plc (RR) Alert Non-Modification Service Bulletin 
(NMSB) Trent XWB 72-AJ994, Revision 2, dated August 29, 2019, both 
refer to module 51 as the intermediate-pressure turbine (IPT) module 
and refer to module 52 as the LPT module. Therefore, revising this 
definition would alleviate confusion.
    The FAA agrees and revised the definition of module 51 to read, 
``For the purpose of this AD, `module 51' is the IPT module.''

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 change 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.

Service Information Incorporated by Reference Under 1 CFR Part 51

    The FAA reviewed RR Alert NMSB Trent XWB 72-AJ994, Revision 2, 
dated August 29, 2019. The Alert NMSB describes procedures for removing 
and replacing the LPT seal panel. 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
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Replace the LPT seal panel............  1 work-hour x $85 per           $282,890        $282,975      $7,357,350
                                         hour = $85.
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

    According to the manufacturer, all of the costs of this AD may be 
covered under warranty, thereby reducing the cost impact on affected 
individuals. The FAA does not control warranty coverage for affected 
individuals. As a result, the FAA has included all costs in our cost 
estimate.

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 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

[[Page 49961]]

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) Would not affect intrastate aviation in Alaska, and
    (3) Would 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):

2020-16-17 Rolls-Royce Deutschland Ltd & Co KG (Type Certificate 
previously held by Rolls-Royce plc): Amendment 39-21201; Docket No. 
FAA-2020-0265; Project Identifier MCAI-2019-00131-E.

(a) Effective Date

    This AD is effective September 21, 2020.

(b) Affected ADs

    None.

(c) Applicability

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

(d) Subject

    Joint Aircraft System Component (JASC) Code 7250, Turbine 
Section.

(e) Unsafe Condition

    This AD was prompted by reports of a lack of weld fusion on the 
resistance welding during manufacturing, which could result in air 
leakage through the low-pressure turbine (LPT) rear support seal 
panel assembly (``LPT seal panel'') causing a life reduction to the 
intermediate-pressure turbine (IPT) 2 and LPT 1 disks. The FAA is 
issuing this AD to prevent failure of the IPT 2 and LPT 1 disks. The 
unsafe condition, if not addressed, could result in uncontained 
debris release, 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

    During the next qualified shop visit after the effective date of 
this AD, or during the current shop visit, if, on the effective date 
of this AD, the engine or module 51 is in a qualified shop visit, 
remove the affected LPT seal panel from service and replace it with 
a part eligible for installation in accordance with the 
Accomplishment Instructions, paragraph 3.A., of Rolls-Royce plc 
Alert Non-Modification Service Bulletin (NMSB) Trent XWB 72-AJ994, 
Revision 2, dated August 29, 2019.

(h) Definitions

    (1) For the purpose of this AD, a ``qualified shop visit'' is a 
Level 4 (Overhaul) or Level 3 (Refurbishment) shop visit of an 
affected engine with an affected LPT seal panel installed, or Level 
2 shop visit (Check and Repair) of module 51 with an affected LPT 
seal panel installed.
    (2) For the purpose of this AD, ``module 51'' is the IPT module.
    (3) For the purpose of this AD, an ``affected LPT seal panel'' 
is LPT rear support seal panel assembly, identified as catalogue 
serial number (CSN) 72512301890, with a serial number (S/N) listed 
in Appendix 1 of RR Alert NMSB Trent XWB 72-AJ994, Revision 2, dated 
August 29, 2019. This appendix additionally lists the module 51 S/N 
and engine S/N in which these panels were originally installed.
    (4) For the purpose of this AD, a ``part eligible for 
installation'' is a LPT seal panel, CSN 72512301890, with a S/N not 
listed in Appendix 1 of RR Alert NMSB Trent XWB 72-AJ994, Revision 
2, dated August 29, 2019.

(i) Credit for Previous Actions

    You may take credit for replacement of the LPT seal panel 
requirements of paragraph (g) of this AD if you performed the 
replacement before the effective date of this AD using RR Alert NMSB 
Trent XWB 72-AJ994, Revision 1, dated November 15, 2018, or Initial 
Issue, dated September 5, 2018.

(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 
ECO Branch, 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 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 AD 2019-0071, 
dated March 28, 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-2020-0265.

(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) Rolls-Royce plc (RR) Alert Non-Modification Service Bulletin 
Trent XWB 72-AJ994, Revision 2, dated August 29, 2019.
    (ii) [Reserved]
    (3) For RR service information identified in this AD, contact 
Rolls-Royce Deutschland Ltd & Co KG, Eschenweg 11, Blankenfelde-
Mahlow, Germany; phone: 9 011 49 03370860.
    (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 July 29, 2020.
Gaetano A. Sciortino,
Deputy Director for Strategic Initiatives, Compliance & Airworthiness 
Division, Aircraft Certification Service.
[FR Doc. 2020-17822 Filed 8-14-20; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE 4910-13-P

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