Airworthiness Directives; GE Aviation Czech s.r.o. (Type Certificate Previously Held by WALTER Engines a.s., Walter a.s., and MOTORLET a.s.) Turboprop Engines, 71229-71232 [2020-24794]

Download as PDF Federal Register / Vol. 85, No. 217 / Monday, November 9, 2020 / Rules and Regulations DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION Federal Aviation Administration 14 CFR Part 39 [Docket No. FAA–2020–0979; Project Identifier MCAI–2020–01313–E; Amendment 39–21317; AD 2020–23–01] RIN 2120–AA64 Airworthiness Directives; GE Aviation Czech s.r.o. (Type Certificate Previously Held by WALTER Engines a.s., Walter a.s., and MOTORLET a.s.) Turboprop Engines Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), DOT. ACTION: Final rule; request for comments. AGENCY: The FAA is adopting a new airworthiness directive (AD) for all GE Aviation Czech s.r.o. (GEAC) M601D– 11, M601E–11, M601E–11A, M601E– 11AS, M601E–11S, M601F, H75–200, H80–100, H80–200, and H85–200 model turboprop engines. This AD was prompted by reports of engine power fluctuations occurring during ground tests. This AD requires the removal and replacement of the fuel control unit (FCU). The FAA is issuing this AD to address the unsafe condition on these products. SUMMARY: This AD is effective November 24, 2020. The Director of the Federal Register approved the incorporation by reference of a certain publication listed in this AD as of November 24, 2020. The FAA must receive comments on this AD by December 24, 2020. ADDRESSES: You may send comments, using the procedures found in 14 CFR 11.43 and 11.45, by any of the following methods: • Federal eRulemaking Portal: Go to https://www.regulations.gov. Follow the instructions for submitting comments. • Fax: (202) 493–2251. • Mail: U.S. Department of Transportation, Docket Operations, M– 30, West Building Ground Floor, Room W12–140, 1200 New Jersey Avenue SE, Washington, DC 20590. • Hand Delivery: Deliver to Mail address above between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m., Monday through Friday, except Federal holidays. For service information identified in this final rule, contact GE Aviation Czech s.r.o., Beranovy´ch 65, 199 02 Praha 9—Letnˇany, Czech Republic; phone: +420 222 538 111; fax +420 222 538 222. You may view this service information at the FAA, Airworthiness Products Section, Operational Safety khammond on DSKJM1Z7X2PROD with RULES DATES: VerDate Sep<11>2014 15:57 Nov 06, 2020 Jkt 253001 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 at https://www.regulations.gov by searching for and locating Docket No. FAA–2020–0979. Examining the AD Docket You may examine the AD docket at https://www.regulations.gov by searching for and locating Docket No. FAA–2020–0979; 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, any comments received, and other information. The street address for the Docket Operations is listed above. FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Barbara Caufield, Aviation Safety Engineer, ECO Branch, FAA, 1200 District Avenue, Burlington, MA 01803; phone: (781) 238–7146; fax: (781) 238– 7199; email: barbara.caufield@faa.gov. SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: Background The European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA), which is the Technical Agent for the Member States of the European Community, has issued EASA AD 2020–0201R1, dated September 25, 2020 (referred to after this as ‘‘the MCAI’’), to address an unsafe condition for the specified products. The MCAI states: Several occurrences of engine power fluctuations have been reported during ground tests on engines equipped with an affected part. The investigation results determined that one or more rubber cuff sealings of the cage reinforcement inside the main metering valve of the FCU was wrongly installed, which reduced the cuff ability to properly seal the FCU working pressure. This condition, if not corrected, may lead to engine surge, fluctuations, or loss of engine power, possibly resulting in loss of control of control of the aeroplane. To address this potential unsafe condition, GEAC issued the ASB, providing replacement instructions, and EASA issued Emergency AD 2020–0201–E to require, for engines having an affected part installed, replacement with a serviceable part. That [EASA] AD also prohibited (re)installation of an affected part. Since that [EASA] AD was issued, it was discovered that an FCU s/n was incorrectly specified in the ASB and, consequently, wrongly quoted in the EASA AD. GEAC revised the ASB to correct that error and this [EASA] AD is revised to amend Appendix 1 (Group 3, s/n 903004 instead of 903008) accordingly. You may obtain further information by examining the MCAI in the AD docket at https://www.regulations.gov by searching for and locating Docket No. FAA–2020–0979. PO 00000 Frm 00007 Fmt 4700 Sfmt 4700 71229 FAA’s Determination This product has been approved by EASA and is approved for operation in the United States. Pursuant to our bilateral agreement with the European Community, EASA has notified us of the unsafe condition described in the MCAI. The FAA is issuing this AD because the agency evaluated all the relevant information provided by EASA and has determined that the unsafe condition described previously is likely to exist or develop in other products of the same type design. Related Service Information Under 1 CFR Part 51 The FAA reviewed GE Aviation Czech Alert Service Bulletin (ASB) ASB–H75– 73–00–00–0038 [01], ASB–H80–73–00– 00–0074 [01], ASB–H85–73–00–00– 0032 [01], ASB–M601D–73–00–00–0066 [01], ASB–M601E–73–00–00–0097 [01], ASB–M601F–73–00–00–0050 [01], and ASB–M601T–73–00–00–0040 [01] (single document; formatted as service bulletin identifier [revision number]), dated September 24, 2020. The ASB describes procedures for removing and replacing the FCU and identifies the affected FCUs. 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 ADDRESSES. AD Requirements This AD requires the removal and replacement of the FCU. Differences Between This AD and the MCAI EASA AD 2020–0201R1, dated September 25, 2020, applies to GEAC M601D, M601D–1, M601D–11, M601D– 11NZ, M601E, M601E–11, M601E–11A, M601E–11AS, M601E–11S, M601E–21, M601F, M601F–22, M601F–32, M601FS, M601T, H75–200, H80–100, H80–200, and H85–200 model turboprop engines. This AD does not include GEAC M601D, M601D–1, M601D–11NZ, M601E, M601E–21, M601F–22, M601F–32, M601FS, and M601T model turboprop engines as they are not type certificated in the U.S. Justification for Immediate Adoption and Determination of the Effective Date Section 553(b)(3)(B) of the Administrative Procedure Act (APA) (5 U.S.C. 551 et seq.) authorizes agencies to dispense with notice and comment procedures for rules when the agency, for ‘‘good cause,’’ finds that those procedures are ‘‘impracticable, unnecessary, or contrary to the public interest.’’ Under this section, an agency, E:\FR\FM\09NOR1.SGM 09NOR1 71230 Federal Register / Vol. 85, No. 217 / Monday, November 9, 2020 / Rules and Regulations upon finding good cause, may issue a final rule without providing notice and seeking comment prior to issuance. Further, Section 553(d) of the APA authorizes agencies to make rules effective in less than thirty days, upon a finding of good cause. 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 foregoing notice and comment prior to adoption of this rule. During ground tests performed by the manufacturer on engines equipped with affected FCUs, several occurrences of engine power fluctuations were reported. After investigation, the manufacturer determined that one or more rubber cuff sealings of the cage reinforcement inside the main metering valve of the FCU was incorrectly installed, which reduced the cuff sealing’s ability to properly seal the FCU working pressure. This unsafe condition, caused by a manufacturing quality issue, may result in loss of engine thrust control and reduced control of the airplane. FCUs installed on Group 1 engines have the highest risk of malfunction. To maintain an acceptable level of safety, these FCUs must be replaced within 10 flight hours (FHs) after the effective date of this AD. FCUs installed on Group 2 and Group 3 engines have a lower risk of malfunction than those installed on Group 1 engines. Therefore, for Group 2 engines, FCUs must be replaced within 50 FHs or 60 days after the effective day of this AD, whichever occurs first. For Group 3 engines, FCUs must be replaced within 100 FHs or 180 days after the effective date of this AD, whichever occurs first. The FAA considers the removal of the affected FCUs to be an urgent safety issue. Accordingly, notice and opportunity for prior public comment are impracticable, pursuant to 5 U.S.C. 553(b)(3)(B). In addition, the FAA finds that good cause exists pursuant to 5 U.S.C. 553(d) for making this amendment effective in less than 30 days, for the same reasons the FAA found good cause to forego notice and comment. Comments Invited The FAA invites you to send any written data, views, or arguments about this final rule. Send your comments to an address listed under ADDRESSES. Include the docket number FAA–2020– 0979 and Project Identifier MCAI–2020– 01313–E at the beginning of your comments. The most helpful comments reference a specific portion of the final rule, explain the reason for any recommended change, and include supporting data. The FAA will consider all comments received by the closing date and may amend this final rule because of those comments. Except for Confidential Business Information (CBI) as described in the following paragraph, and other information as described in 14 CFR 11.35, the FAA will post all comments received, without change, to https:// www.regulations.gov, including any personal information you provide. The agency will also post a report summarizing each substantive verbal contact received about this final rule. Confidential Business Information CBI is commercial or financial information that is both customarily and actually treated as private by its owner. Under the Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) (5 U.S.C. 552), CBI is exempt from public disclosure. If your comments responsive to this AD contain commercial or financial information that is customarily treated as private, that you actually treat as private, and that is relevant or responsive to this AD, it is important that you clearly designate the submitted comments as CBI. Please mark each page of your submission containing CBI as ‘‘PROPIN.’’ The FAA will treat such marked submissions as confidential under the FOIA, and they will not be placed in the public docket of this AD. Submissions containing CBI should be sent to Barbara Caufield, Aviation Safety Engineer, ECO Branch, FAA, 1200 District Avenue, Burlington, MA 01803. Any commentary that the FAA receives which is not specifically designated as CBI will be placed in the public docket for this rulemaking. Regulatory Flexibility Act The requirements of the Regulatory Flexibility Act (RFA) do not apply when an agency finds good cause pursuant to 5 U.S.C. 553 to adopt a rule without prior notice and comment. Because the FAA has determined that it has good cause to adopt this rule without notice and comment, RFA analysis is not required. Costs of Compliance The FAA estimates that this AD affects 12 engines installed on airplanes of U.S. registry. The FAA estimates the following costs to comply with this AD: ESTIMATED COSTS Action Labor cost Remove and replace FCU ..... 5 work-hours × $85 per hour = $425 ..................................... khammond on DSKJM1Z7X2PROD with RULES The FAA has included all known costs in its cost estimate. According to the manufacturer, however, all of the costs of this AD may be covered under warranty, thereby reducing the cost impact on affected operators. Authority for This Rulemaking Title 49 of the United States Code specifies the FAA’s authority to issue rules on aviation safety. Subtitle I, section 106, describes the authority of the FAA Administrator. ‘‘Subtitle VII: Aviation Programs’’ describes in more VerDate Sep<11>2014 15:57 Nov 06, 2020 Jkt 253001 Parts cost 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 PO 00000 Frm 00008 Fmt 4700 Sfmt 4700 $25,000 Cost per product $25,425 Cost on U.S. operators $305,100 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. E:\FR\FM\09NOR1.SGM 09NOR1 Federal Register / Vol. 85, No. 217 / Monday, November 9, 2020 / Rules and Regulations 2020–23–01 GE Aviation Czech s.r.o (Type Certificate previously held by WALTER Engines a.s., Walter a.s., and MOTORLET a.s.): Amendment 39– 21317; Docket No. FAA–2020–0979; Project Identifier MCAI–2020–01313–E. List of Subjects in 14 CFR Part 39 Air transportation, Aircraft, Aviation safety, Incorporation by reference, Safety. This airworthiness directive (AD) is effective November 24, 2020. The Amendment Accordingly, under the authority delegated to me by the Administrator, the FAA amends 14 CFR part 39 as follows: (c) Applicability 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: ■ (h) Installation Prohibition After the effective date of this AD, do not install onto any engine an affected FCU with a P/N and S/N identified in Appendix 1— Affected Parts of the ASB. (i) No Repair Requirement The repair requirement in the Accomplishment Instructions, paragraph 2, of the ASB is not required by this AD. khammond on DSKJM1Z7X2PROD with RULES (j) Definitions (1) For the purpose of this AD, a ‘‘part eligible for installation’’ is a FCU with a P/N and S/N that is not identified in Appendix 1—Affected Parts of the ASB. (2) For the purpose of this AD, a ‘‘Group 1 engine’’ is a GEAC model turboprop engine that has a FCU P/N and S/N listed in Appendix 1—Affected Parts, Group 1, of the ASB. (3) For the purpose of this AD, a ‘‘Group 2 engine’’ is a GEAC model turboprop engine that has a FCU P/N and S/N listed in Appendix 1—Affected Parts, Group 2, of the ASB. (4) For the purpose of this AD, a ‘‘Group 3 engine is a GEAC model turboprop engine that has a FCU P/N and S/N listed in VerDate Sep<11>2014 15:57 Nov 06, 2020 Jkt 253001 (a) Effective Date (b) Affected ADs None. This AD applies to all GE Aviation Czech s.r.o. (GEAC) M601D–11, M601E–11, M601E– 11A, M601E–11AS, M601E–11S, M601F, H75–200, H80–100, H80–200, and H85–200 model turboprop engines, with a fuel control unit (FCU) part number (P/N) and serial number (S/N) listed in Appendix 1—Affected Parts of GE Aviation Czech Alert Service Bulletin (ASB) ASB–H75–73–00–00–0038 [01], ASB–H80–73–00–00–0074 [01], ASB– H85–73–00–00–0032 [01], ASB–M601D–73– 00–00–0066 [01], ASB–M601E–73–00–00– 0097 [01], ASB–M601F–73–00–00–0050 [01], and ASB–M601T–73–00–00–0040 [01] (single document; formatted as service bulletin identifier [revision number]), dated September 24, 2020 (the ASB), installed. Appendix 1—Affected Parts, Group 3, of the ASB. (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 certification office, send it to the attention of the person identified in Related Information. 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 For more information about this AD, contact Barbara Caufield, Aviation Safety Engineer, ECO Branch, FAA, 1200 District Avenue, Burlington, MA 01803; phone: (781) 238–7146; fax: (781) 238–7199; email: barbara.caufield@faa.gov. PO 00000 Frm 00009 Fmt 4700 Sfmt 4700 (d) Subject Joint Aircraft System Component (JASC) Code 7321, Fuel Control/Turbine Engines. (e) Unsafe Condition This AD was prompted by incorrect installation by the manufacturer of one or more rubber cuff sealings of the cage reinforcement inside the main metering valve of the FCU, which reduces the cuff sealing’s ability to properly seal the FCU working pressure. The FAA is issuing this AD to prevent the malfunction of the FCU, which could cause engine parameter oscillation or overshoots. The unsafe condition, if not addressed, could result in loss of engine thrust control and reduced control of the airplane. (f) Compliance Comply with this AD within the compliance times specified, unless already done. (g) Required Actions Before exceeding the applicable compliance time in Table 1 to paragraph (g) of this AD, remove the affected FCU and replace it with a part eligible for installation using the Accomplishment Instructions, paragraph 2, of the ASB. (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) GE Aviation Czech Alert Service Bulletin (ASB) ASB–H75–73–00–00–0038 [01], ASB–H80–73–00–00–0074 [01], ASB– H85–73–00–00–0032 [01], ASB–M601D–73– 00–00–0066 [01], ASB–M601E–73–00–00– 0097 [01], ASB–M601F–73–00–00–0050 [01], and ASB–M601T–73–00–00–0040 [01] (single document; formatted as service bulletin identifier [revision number]), dated September 24, 2020. (ii) [Reserved] (3) For GE Aviation Czech service information identified in this AD, contact GE Aviation Czech s.r.o., Beranovy´ch 65, 199 02 Praha 9—Letnˇany, Czech Republic; phone: +420 222 538 111. (4) You may view this service information at FAA, Airworthiness Products Section, Operational Safety Branch, 1200 District Avenue, Burlington, MA 01803. For E:\FR\FM\09NOR1.SGM 09NOR1 ER09NO20.003</GPH> For the reasons discussed above, I certify that this AD: (1) Is not a ‘‘significant regulatory action’’ under Executive Order 12866, and (2) Will not affect intrastate aviation in Alaska. 71231 71232 Federal Register / Vol. 85, No. 217 / Monday, November 9, 2020 / Rules and Regulations 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 October 27, 2020. Gaetano A. Sciortino, Deputy Director for Strategic Initiatives, Compliance & Airworthiness Division, Aircraft Certification Service. [FR Doc. 2020–24794 Filed 11–6–20; 8:45 am] BILLING CODE 4910–13–P DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION Federal Aviation Administration 14 CFR Part 39 [Docket No. FAA–2020–0898; Project Identifier AD–2020–01284–T; Amendment 39–21320; AD 2020–23–04] RIN 2120–AA64 Airworthiness Directives; Gulfstream Aerospace Corporation Airplanes Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), DOT. ACTION: Final rule; request for comments. AGENCY: The FAA is adopting a new airworthiness directive (AD) for certain Gulfstream Aerospace Corporation (Gulfstream) Model GVII–G500 and Model GVII–G600 airplanes. This AD requires revising your existing airplane flight manual (AFM) and airplane maintenance manual (AMM) to include information pertaining to the fuel boost pump. This AD was prompted by a report of misassembled impellers onto the shaft of the fuel boost pump during production. The FAA is issuing this AD to address the unsafe condition on these products. DATES: This AD is effective November 24, 2020. The Director of the Federal Register approved the incorporation by reference of certain publications listed in this AD as of November 24, 2020. The FAA must receive comments on this AD by December 24, 2020. 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– khammond on DSKJM1Z7X2PROD with RULES SUMMARY: VerDate Sep<11>2014 15:57 Nov 06, 2020 Jkt 253001 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 Gulfstream Aerospace Corporation, Technical Publications Dept., P.O. Box 2206, Savannah, GA 31402; phone: (800) 810– 4853; email: pubs@gulfstream.com; website: https://www.gulfstream.com/ en/customer-support/. 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. It is also available on the internet at https://www.regulations.gov by searching for and locating Docket No. FAA–2020–0898. 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– 0898; 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, any comments received, and other information. The street address for Docket Operations is listed above. Comments will be available in the AD docket shortly after receipt. FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Jared Meyer, Aerospace Engineer, Atlanta ACO Branch, FAA, 1701 Columbia Avenue, College Park, Georgia 30337; phone: (404) 474–5534; fax: (404) 474–5605; email: jared.meyer@faa.gov. SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: Discussion The FAA was notified by Gulfstream of the possibility of misassembled impellers onto the shaft of fuel boost pumps used in the production of GVII– G500 and GVII–G600 airplanes. The supplier of fuel boost pumps discovered two misassembled fuel boost pumps on two different make/models of nonGulfstream aircraft. The Gulfstream GVII–G500 and GVII–G600 fuel boost pumps are very similar in design and are manufactured in the same facility using the same manufacturing processes, so the same condition could exist on the Gulfstream fuel boost pumps. PO 00000 Frm 00010 Fmt 4700 Sfmt 4700 A misassembled fuel boost pump could result in a woodruff key becoming dislodged and causing friction between static and rotating components internal to the fuel boost pump. This friction could generate heat or sparks inside the fuel tank, which, if the pump were to run dry, could result in a fuel tank fire or fuel tank explosion. The unsafe condition, if not addressed, could result in a potential source of ignition in the fuel tank and may lead to fire or explosion. Related Service Information Under 1 CFR Part 51 The FAA reviewed the following AFM supplements, which contain new warnings about operating the boost pumps with empty fuel tanks for the Abnormal Procedures and Emergency Procedures sections of the AFM. These documents are distinct because they pertain to different airplane models: • Gulfstream Aerospace GVII–G500 Airplane Flight Manual Supplement No. GVII–G500 (Issue 1)–2020–05, dated September 8, 2020; • Gulfstream Aerospace GVII–G500 Airplane Flight Manual Supplement No. GVII–G500–2020–06, dated September 8, 2020; and • Gulfstream Corporation GVII–G600 Airplane Flight Manual Supplement No. GVII–G600–2020–06 dated September 8, 2020. The FAA also reviewed the following AMM documents, which contain revised maintenance procedures pertaining to the fuel boost pump. These documents are distinct since they apply to different airplane models. Although the documents have the watermarked words ‘‘advance copy’’ on each page of the document, these are not advance draft copies but final versions of temporary revisions to the AMM, pending incorporation into the AMM at the next revision. • GVII–G500 Maintenance Manual 12–13–01 Defueling Procedure—Defuel, dated August 31, 2020; • GVII–G500 Maintenance Manual 28–26–04 Fuel Boost Pump—Prime, dated August 31, 2020; • GVII–G600 Maintenance Manual 12–13–01 Defueling Procedure—Defuel, dated August 31, 2020; • GVII–G600 Maintenance Manual 28–26–04 Fuel Boost Pump—Prime, dated August 31, 2020; • GVII–G600 Maintenance Manual 28–26–04 Fuel Boost Pump—Removal/ Installation, dated August 31, 2020; and • GVII–G600 Maintenance Manual 28–26–05 Fuel Boost Pump Canister— Removal/Installation, dated August 31, 2020. E:\FR\FM\09NOR1.SGM 09NOR1

Agencies

[Federal Register Volume 85, Number 217 (Monday, November 9, 2020)]
[Rules and Regulations]
[Pages 71229-71232]
From the Federal Register Online via the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]
[FR Doc No: 2020-24794]



[[Page 71229]]

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DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION

Federal Aviation Administration

14 CFR Part 39

[Docket No. FAA-2020-0979; Project Identifier MCAI-2020-01313-E; 
Amendment 39-21317; AD 2020-23-01]
RIN 2120-AA64


Airworthiness Directives; GE Aviation Czech s.r.o. (Type 
Certificate Previously Held by WALTER Engines a.s., Walter a.s., and 
MOTORLET a.s.) Turboprop Engines

AGENCY: Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), DOT.

ACTION: Final rule; request for comments.

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

SUMMARY: The FAA is adopting a new airworthiness directive (AD) for all 
GE Aviation Czech s.r.o. (GEAC) M601D-11, M601E-11, M601E-11A, M601E-
11AS, M601E-11S, M601F, H75-200, H80-100, H80-200, and H85-200 model 
turboprop engines. This AD was prompted by reports of engine power 
fluctuations occurring during ground tests. This AD requires the 
removal and replacement of the fuel control unit (FCU). The FAA is 
issuing this AD to address the unsafe condition on these products.

DATES: This AD is effective November 24, 2020.
    The Director of the Federal Register approved the incorporation by 
reference of a certain publication listed in this AD as of November 24, 
2020.
    The FAA must receive comments on this AD by December 24, 2020.

ADDRESSES: You may send comments, using the procedures found in 14 CFR 
11.43 and 11.45, by any of the following methods:
     Federal eRulemaking Portal: Go to https://www.regulations.gov. Follow the instructions for submitting comments.
     Fax: (202) 493-2251.
     Mail: U.S. Department of Transportation, Docket 
Operations, M-30, West Building Ground Floor, Room W12-140, 1200 New 
Jersey Avenue SE, Washington, DC 20590.
     Hand Delivery: Deliver to Mail address above between 9 
a.m. and 5 p.m., Monday through Friday, except Federal holidays.
    For service information identified in this final rule, contact GE 
Aviation Czech s.r.o., Beranov[yacute]ch 65, 199 02 Praha 9--
Let[ncaron]any, Czech Republic; phone: +420 222 538 111; fax +420 222 
538 222. 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 at https://www.regulations.gov by searching for and 
locating Docket No. FAA-2020-0979.

Examining the AD Docket

    You may examine the AD docket at https://www.regulations.gov by 
searching for and locating Docket No. FAA-2020-0979; 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, any 
comments received, and other information. The street address for the 
Docket Operations is listed above.

FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Barbara Caufield, Aviation Safety 
Engineer, ECO Branch, FAA, 1200 District Avenue, Burlington, MA 01803; 
phone: (781) 238-7146; fax: (781) 238-7199; email: 
[email protected].

SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION:

Background

    The European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA), which is the 
Technical Agent for the Member States of the European Community, has 
issued EASA AD 2020-0201R1, dated September 25, 2020 (referred to after 
this as ``the MCAI''), to address an unsafe condition for the specified 
products. The MCAI states:

    Several occurrences of engine power fluctuations have been 
reported during ground tests on engines equipped with an affected 
part. The investigation results determined that one or more rubber 
cuff sealings of the cage reinforcement inside the main metering 
valve of the FCU was wrongly installed, which reduced the cuff 
ability to properly seal the FCU working pressure.
    This condition, if not corrected, may lead to engine surge, 
fluctuations, or loss of engine power, possibly resulting in loss of 
control of control of the aeroplane.
    To address this potential unsafe condition, GEAC issued the ASB, 
providing replacement instructions, and EASA issued Emergency AD 
2020-0201-E to require, for engines having an affected part 
installed, replacement with a serviceable part. That [EASA] AD also 
prohibited (re)installation of an affected part.
    Since that [EASA] AD was issued, it was discovered that an FCU 
s/n was incorrectly specified in the ASB and, consequently, wrongly 
quoted in the EASA AD. GEAC revised the ASB to correct that error 
and this [EASA] AD is revised to amend Appendix 1 (Group 3, s/n 
903004 instead of 903008) accordingly.

    You may obtain further information by examining the MCAI in the AD 
docket at https://www.regulations.gov by searching for and locating 
Docket No. FAA-2020-0979.

FAA's Determination

    This product has been approved by EASA and is approved for 
operation in the United States. Pursuant to our bilateral agreement 
with the European Community, EASA has notified us of the unsafe 
condition described in the MCAI. The FAA is issuing this AD because the 
agency evaluated all the relevant information provided by EASA and has 
determined that the unsafe condition described previously is likely to 
exist or develop in other products of the same type design.

Related Service Information Under 1 CFR Part 51

    The FAA reviewed GE Aviation Czech Alert Service Bulletin (ASB) 
ASB-H75-73-00-00-0038 [01], ASB-H80-73-00-00-0074 [01], ASB-H85-73-00-
00-0032 [01], ASB-M601D-73-00-00-0066 [01], ASB-M601E-73-00-00-0097 
[01], ASB-M601F-73-00-00-0050 [01], and ASB-M601T-73-00-00-0040 [01] 
(single document; formatted as service bulletin identifier [revision 
number]), dated September 24, 2020. The ASB describes procedures for 
removing and replacing the FCU and identifies the affected FCUs. 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 ADDRESSES.

AD Requirements

    This AD requires the removal and replacement of the FCU.

Differences Between This AD and the MCAI

    EASA AD 2020-0201R1, dated September 25, 2020, applies to GEAC 
M601D, M601D-1, M601D-11, M601D-11NZ, M601E, M601E-11, M601E-11A, 
M601E-11AS, M601E-11S, M601E-21, M601F, M601F-22, M601F-32, M601FS, 
M601T, H75-200, H80-100, H80-200, and H85-200 model turboprop engines. 
This AD does not include GEAC M601D, M601D-1, M601D-11NZ, M601E, M601E-
21, M601F-22, M601F-32, M601FS, and M601T model turboprop engines as 
they are not type certificated in the U.S.

Justification for Immediate Adoption and Determination of the Effective 
Date

    Section 553(b)(3)(B) of the Administrative Procedure Act (APA) (5 
U.S.C. 551 et seq.) authorizes agencies to dispense with notice and 
comment procedures for rules when the agency, for ``good cause,'' finds 
that those procedures are ``impracticable, unnecessary, or contrary to 
the public interest.'' Under this section, an agency,

[[Page 71230]]

upon finding good cause, may issue a final rule without providing 
notice and seeking comment prior to issuance. Further, Section 553(d) 
of the APA authorizes agencies to make rules effective in less than 
thirty days, upon a finding of good cause.
    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 foregoing notice and comment prior to adoption of this rule. 
During ground tests performed by the manufacturer on engines equipped 
with affected FCUs, several occurrences of engine power fluctuations 
were reported. After investigation, the manufacturer determined that 
one or more rubber cuff sealings of the cage reinforcement inside the 
main metering valve of the FCU was incorrectly installed, which reduced 
the cuff sealing's ability to properly seal the FCU working pressure. 
This unsafe condition, caused by a manufacturing quality issue, may 
result in loss of engine thrust control and reduced control of the 
airplane.
    FCUs installed on Group 1 engines have the highest risk of 
malfunction. To maintain an acceptable level of safety, these FCUs must 
be replaced within 10 flight hours (FHs) after the effective date of 
this AD. FCUs installed on Group 2 and Group 3 engines have a lower 
risk of malfunction than those installed on Group 1 engines. Therefore, 
for Group 2 engines, FCUs must be replaced within 50 FHs or 60 days 
after the effective day of this AD, whichever occurs first. For Group 3 
engines, FCUs must be replaced within 100 FHs or 180 days after the 
effective date of this AD, whichever occurs first.
    The FAA considers the removal of the affected FCUs to be an urgent 
safety issue. Accordingly, notice and opportunity for prior public 
comment are impracticable, pursuant to 5 U.S.C. 553(b)(3)(B).
    In addition, the FAA finds that good cause exists pursuant to 5 
U.S.C. 553(d) for making this amendment effective in less than 30 days, 
for the same reasons the FAA found good cause to forego notice and 
comment.

Comments Invited

    The FAA invites you to send any written data, views, or arguments 
about this final rule. Send your comments to an address listed under 
ADDRESSES. Include the docket number FAA-2020-0979 and Project 
Identifier MCAI-2020-01313-E at the beginning of your comments. The 
most helpful comments reference a specific portion of the final rule, 
explain the reason for any recommended change, and include supporting 
data. The FAA will consider all comments received by the closing date 
and may amend this final rule because of those comments.
    Except for Confidential Business Information (CBI) as described in 
the following paragraph, and other information as described in 14 CFR 
11.35, the FAA will post all comments received, without change, to 
https://www.regulations.gov, including any personal information you 
provide. The agency will also post a report summarizing each 
substantive verbal contact received about this final rule.

Confidential Business Information

    CBI is commercial or financial information that is both customarily 
and actually treated as private by its owner. Under the Freedom of 
Information Act (FOIA) (5 U.S.C. 552), CBI is exempt from public 
disclosure. If your comments responsive to this AD contain commercial 
or financial information that is customarily treated as private, that 
you actually treat as private, and that is relevant or responsive to 
this AD, it is important that you clearly designate the submitted 
comments as CBI. Please mark each page of your submission containing 
CBI as ``PROPIN.'' The FAA will treat such marked submissions as 
confidential under the FOIA, and they will not be placed in the public 
docket of this AD. Submissions containing CBI should be sent to Barbara 
Caufield, Aviation Safety Engineer, ECO Branch, FAA, 1200 District 
Avenue, Burlington, MA 01803. Any commentary that the FAA receives 
which is not specifically designated as CBI will be placed in the 
public docket for this rulemaking.

Regulatory Flexibility Act

    The requirements of the Regulatory Flexibility Act (RFA) do not 
apply when an agency finds good cause pursuant to 5 U.S.C. 553 to adopt 
a rule without prior notice and comment. Because the FAA has determined 
that it has good cause to adopt this rule without notice and comment, 
RFA analysis is not required.

Costs of Compliance

    The FAA estimates that this AD affects 12 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
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Remove and replace FCU................  5 work-hours x $85 per           $25,000         $25,425        $305,100
                                         hour = $425.
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

    The FAA has included all known costs in its cost estimate. 
According to the manufacturer, however, all of the costs of this AD may 
be covered under warranty, thereby reducing the cost impact on affected 
operators.

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 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.

[[Page 71231]]

    For the reasons discussed above, I certify that this AD:
    (1) Is not a ``significant regulatory action'' under Executive 
Order 12866, and
    (2) Will not affect intrastate aviation in Alaska.

List of Subjects in 14 CFR Part 39

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

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:

2020-23-01 GE Aviation Czech s.r.o (Type Certificate previously held 
by WALTER Engines a.s., Walter a.s., and MOTORLET a.s.): Amendment 
39-21317; Docket No. FAA-2020-0979; Project Identifier MCAI-2020-
01313-E.

(a) Effective Date

    This airworthiness directive (AD) is effective November 24, 
2020.

(b) Affected ADs

    None.

(c) Applicability

    This AD applies to all GE Aviation Czech s.r.o. (GEAC) M601D-11, 
M601E-11, M601E-11A, M601E-11AS, M601E-11S, M601F, H75-200, H80-100, 
H80-200, and H85-200 model turboprop engines, with a fuel control 
unit (FCU) part number (P/N) and serial number (S/N) listed in 
Appendix 1--Affected Parts of GE Aviation Czech Alert Service 
Bulletin (ASB) ASB-H75-73-00-00-0038 [01], ASB-H80-73-00-00-0074 
[01], ASB-H85-73-00-00-0032 [01], ASB-M601D-73-00-00-0066 [01], ASB-
M601E-73-00-00-0097 [01], ASB-M601F-73-00-00-0050 [01], and ASB-
M601T-73-00-00-0040 [01] (single document; formatted as service 
bulletin identifier [revision number]), dated September 24, 2020 
(the ASB), installed.

(d) Subject

    Joint Aircraft System Component (JASC) Code 7321, Fuel Control/
Turbine Engines.

(e) Unsafe Condition

    This AD was prompted by incorrect installation by the 
manufacturer of one or more rubber cuff sealings of the cage 
reinforcement inside the main metering valve of the FCU, which 
reduces the cuff sealing's ability to properly seal the FCU working 
pressure. The FAA is issuing this AD to prevent the malfunction of 
the FCU, which could cause engine parameter oscillation or 
overshoots. The unsafe condition, if not addressed, could result in 
loss of engine thrust control and reduced control of the airplane.

(f) Compliance

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

(g) Required Actions

    Before exceeding the applicable compliance time in Table 1 to 
paragraph (g) of this AD, remove the affected FCU and replace it 
with a part eligible for installation using the Accomplishment 
Instructions, paragraph 2, of the ASB.
[GRAPHIC] [TIFF OMITTED] TR09NO20.003

(h) Installation Prohibition

    After the effective date of this AD, do not install onto any 
engine an affected FCU with a P/N and S/N identified in Appendix 1--
Affected Parts of the ASB.

(i) No Repair Requirement

    The repair requirement in the Accomplishment Instructions, 
paragraph 2, of the ASB is not required by this AD.

(j) Definitions

    (1) For the purpose of this AD, a ``part eligible for 
installation'' is a FCU with a P/N and S/N that is not identified in 
Appendix 1--Affected Parts of the ASB.
    (2) For the purpose of this AD, a ``Group 1 engine'' is a GEAC 
model turboprop engine that has a FCU P/N and S/N listed in Appendix 
1--Affected Parts, Group 1, of the ASB.
    (3) For the purpose of this AD, a ``Group 2 engine'' is a GEAC 
model turboprop engine that has a FCU P/N and S/N listed in Appendix 
1--Affected Parts, Group 2, of the ASB.
    (4) For the purpose of this AD, a ``Group 3 engine is a GEAC 
model turboprop engine that has a FCU P/N and S/N listed in Appendix 
1--Affected Parts, Group 3, of the ASB.

(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 
certification office, send it to the attention of the person 
identified in Related Information. 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

    For more information about this AD, contact Barbara Caufield, 
Aviation Safety Engineer, ECO Branch, FAA, 1200 District Avenue, 
Burlington, MA 01803; phone: (781) 238-7146; fax: (781) 238-7199; 
email: [email protected].

(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) GE Aviation Czech Alert Service Bulletin (ASB) ASB-H75-73-
00-00-0038 [01], ASB-H80-73-00-00-0074 [01], ASB-H85-73-00-00-0032 
[01], ASB-M601D-73-00-00-0066 [01], ASB-M601E-73-00-00-0097 [01], 
ASB-M601F-73-00-00-0050 [01], and ASB-M601T-73-00-00-0040 [01] 
(single document; formatted as service bulletin identifier [revision 
number]), dated September 24, 2020.
    (ii) [Reserved]
    (3) For GE Aviation Czech service information identified in this 
AD, contact GE Aviation Czech s.r.o., Beranov[yacute]ch 65, 199 02 
Praha 9--Let[ncaron]any, Czech Republic; phone: +420 222 538 111.
    (4) You may view this service information at FAA, Airworthiness 
Products Section, Operational Safety Branch, 1200 District Avenue, 
Burlington, MA 01803. For

[[Page 71232]]

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 October 27, 2020.
Gaetano A. Sciortino,
Deputy Director for Strategic Initiatives, Compliance & Airworthiness 
Division, Aircraft Certification Service.
[FR Doc. 2020-24794 Filed 11-6-20; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE 4910-13-P
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