Airworthiness Directives; Rolls-Royce Deutschland Ltd & Co KG (Type Certificate Previously Held by Rolls-Royce Deutschland GmbH, Formerly BMW Rolls-Royce GmbH) Turbofan Engines, 17326-17329 [2021-06800]

Download as PDF 17326 Federal Register / Vol. 86, No. 62 / Friday, April 2, 2021 / Proposed Rules List of Subjects in 14 CFR Part 39 Air transportation, Aircraft, Aviation safety, Incorporation by reference, Safety. The Proposed Amendment Accordingly, under the authority delegated to me by the Administrator, the FAA proposes to amend 14 CFR part 39 as follows: PART 39—AIRWORTHINESS DIRECTIVES 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: ■ The Boeing Company: Docket No. FAA– 2021–0017; Project Identifier AD–2020– 01186–T. (a) Comments Due Date The FAA must receive comments on this airworthiness directive (AD) by May 17, 2021. (b) Affected ADs None. (c) Applicability This AD applies to The Boeing Company Model 737–8 and 737–9 airplanes, certificated in any category, as identified in Boeing Special Attention Requirements Bulletin 737–28–1363 RB, dated June 2, 2020. (d) Subject Air Transport Association (ATA) of America Code 28, Fuel. (e) Unsafe Condition This AD was prompted by a report that during refueling of the right main tank, if there is a failure of the automatic shutoff system, the refueling panel does not provide the required flashing indication that the automatic shutoff has failed to shut off the fuel. The FAA is issuing this AD to address this indication failure to warn the person fueling the airplane, which could cause overfill of the right main tank, spilled fuel, and pooling on the ground that could come in contact with an ignition source, resulting in a ground fire. jbell on DSKJLSW7X2PROD with PROPOSALS (f) Compliance Comply with this AD within the compliance times specified, unless already done. (g) Required Actions Except as specified by paragraph (h) of this AD, at the applicable times specified in the ‘‘Compliance’’ paragraph of Boeing Special Attention Requirements Bulletin 737–28– 1363 RB, dated June 2, 2020, do all applicable actions identified in, and in accordance with, the Accomplishment VerDate Sep<11>2014 16:28 Apr 01, 2021 Jkt 253001 Instructions of Boeing Special Attention Requirements Bulletin 737–28–1363 RB, dated June 2, 2020. Note 1 to paragraph (g): Guidance for accomplishing the actions required by this AD can be found in Boeing Special Attention Service Bulletin 737–28–1363, dated June 2, 2020, which is referred to in Boeing Special Attention Requirements Bulletin 737–28– 1363 RB, dated June 2, 2020. Issued on January 27, 2021. Lance T. Gant, Director, Compliance & Airworthiness Division, Aircraft Certification Service. (h) Exception to Service Information Specifications Federal Aviation Administration Where Boeing Special Attention Requirements Bulletin 737–28–1363 RB, dated June 2, 2020, uses the phrase ‘‘the Original Issue date of Requirements Bulletin 737–28–1363 RB,’’ this AD requires using ‘‘the effective date of this AD.’’ (i) Alternative Methods of Compliance (AMOCs) (1) The Manager, Seattle ACO Branch, FAA, has the authority to approve AMOCs for this AD, if requested using the procedures found in 14 CFR 39.19. In accordance with 14 CFR 39.19, send your request to your principal inspector or responsible Flight Standards Office, as appropriate. If sending information directly to the manager of the certification office, send it to the attention of the person identified in paragraph (j)(1) of this AD. Information may be emailed to: 9ANM-Seattle-ACO-AMOC-Requests@faa.gov. (2) Before using any approved AMOC, notify your appropriate principal inspector, or lacking a principal inspector, the manager of the responsible Flight Standards Office. (3) An AMOC that provides an acceptable level of safety may be used for any repair, modification, or alteration required by this AD if it is approved by The Boeing Company Organization Designation Authorization (ODA) that has been authorized by the Manager, Seattle ACO Branch, FAA, to make those findings. To be approved, the repair method, modification deviation, or alteration deviation must meet the certification basis of the airplane, and the approval must specifically refer to this AD. (j) Related Information (1) For more information about this AD, contact Chris Baker, Aerospace Engineer, Propulsion Section, FAA, Seattle ACO Branch, 2200 South 216th St., Des Moines, WA 98198; phone and fax: 206–231–3552; email: christopher.r.baker@faa.gov. (2) For service information identified in this AD, contact Boeing Commercial Airplanes, Attention: Contractual & Data Services (C&DS), 2600 Westminster Blvd., MC 110–SK57, Seal Beach, CA 90740–5600; telephone 562–797–1717; internet https:// www.myboeingfleet.com. You may view this referenced service information at the FAA, Airworthiness Products Section, Operational Safety Branch, 2200 South 216th St., Des Moines, WA. For information on the availability of this material at the FAA, call 206–231–3195. PO 00000 Frm 00005 Fmt 4702 Sfmt 4702 [FR Doc. 2021–06726 Filed 4–1–21; 8:45 am] BILLING CODE 4910–13–P DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION 14 CFR Part 39 [Docket No. FAA–2021–0257; Project Identifier MCAI–2020–00712–E] RIN 2120–AA64 Airworthiness Directives; Rolls-Royce Deutschland Ltd & Co KG (Type Certificate Previously Held by RollsRoyce Deutschland GmbH, Formerly BMW Rolls-Royce GmbH) Turbofan Engines Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), DOT. ACTION: Notice of proposed rulemaking (NPRM). AGENCY: The FAA proposes to adopt a new airworthiness directive (AD) for certain Rolls-Royce Deutschland Ltd & Co KG (type certificate previously held by Rolls-Royce Deutschland GmbH, formerly BMW Rolls-Royce GmbH) (RRD) BR700–710A2–20 model turbofan engines. This proposed AD was prompted by flight data obtained from airplanes equipped with certain Rockwell Collins avionics and autothrottle systems that demonstrated significant oscillation of the engine rotor revolution speed during flight. This proposed AD would require initial and repetitive recalculation of the consumed and remaining service life of certain lifelimited parts (LLPs). This proposed AD would also require removal of an LLP prior to its approved life limit or within 90 days after the effective date of this AD, whichever occurs later. The FAA is proposing this AD to address the unsafe condition on these products. DATES: The FAA must receive comments on this proposed AD by May 17, 2021. 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. SUMMARY: E:\FR\FM\02APP1.SGM 02APP1 Federal Register / Vol. 86, No. 62 / Friday, April 2, 2021 / Proposed Rules • Hand Delivery: Deliver to Mail address above between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m., Monday through Friday, except Federal holidays. For service information identified in this NPRM, contact Rolls-Royce Deutschland Ltd & Co KG, Eschenweg 11, Dahlewitz, 15827 BlankenfeldeMahlow, Germany; phone: +49 (0) 33 7086–4040; website: 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. Examining the AD Docket You may examine the AD docket at https://www.regulations.gov by searching for and locating Docket No. FAA–2021–0257; or in person at Docket Operations between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m., Monday through Friday, except Federal holidays. The AD docket contains this NPRM, the mandatory continuing airworthiness information (MCAI), any comments received, and other information. The street address for Docket Operations is listed above. FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Wego Wang, Aviation Safety Engineer, ECO Branch, FAA, 1200 District Avenue, Burlington, MA 01803; phone: (781) 238–7134; fax: (781) 238–7199; email: Wego.Wang@faa.gov. SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: jbell on DSKJLSW7X2PROD with PROPOSALS Comments Invited The FAA invites you to send any written relevant data, views, or arguments about this proposal. Send your comments to an address listed under ADDRESSES. Include ‘‘Docket No. FAA–2021–0257; Project Identifier MCAI–2020–00712–E’’ at the beginning of your comments. The most helpful comments reference a specific portion of the proposal, 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 proposal 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 FAA will also post a report summarizing each substantive verbal contact received about this NPRM. VerDate Sep<11>2014 16:28 Apr 01, 2021 Jkt 253001 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 final rule 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 final rule, 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 final rule. Submissions containing CBI should be sent to Wego Wang, 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. 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 2018–0268, dated December 11, 2018 and corrected on February 20, 2019 (referred to after this as ‘‘the MCAI’’), to address the unsafe condition on these products. The MCAI states: Flight data obtained from aeroplanes equipped with certain Rockwell Collins avionics and auto-throttle system demonstrated significant oscillation of the engine rotor revolution speed during cruise. Analysis indicates that this affects the service life of the affected LLP. This condition, if not corrected, may lead to failure of an affected LLP, possibly resulting in release of high-energy debris, with consequent damage to, and/or reduced control of, the aeroplane. To address this potentially unsafe condition, RRD issued the NMSB, providing instructions to recalculate the consumed and remaining service life of the affected LLP. For the reasons described above, this [EASA] AD requires repetitive recalculation of the service life (consumed and remaining) of each affected LLP and, depending on the results, replacement of each affected LLP before exceeding the life limit, taking the recalculated life consumption into account. 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–2021–0257. PO 00000 Frm 00006 Fmt 4702 Sfmt 4702 17327 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 and service information referenced above. The FAA is proposing this AD because the agency evaluated all the relevant information provided by EASA and determined 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 RRD Alert NonModification Service Bulletin (NMSB) SB–BR700–72–A900584, Revision 2, dated November 22, 2017 (the NMSB). The NMSB describes procedures for amending flight cycle counting requirements for affected LLPs on RRD BR700–710A2–20 model turbofan engines. 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. Other Related Service Information The FAA reviewed Bombardier Service Bulletin (SB) 700–34–5021, Revision 03, dated January 5, 2018, and Bombardier SB 700–34–6021, Revision 03, dated January 5, 2018. These SBs describe procedures for the implementation of the Global Vision Flight Deck Version 5 (V5) software load on Bombardier Inc. Model BD–700– 1A11 and BD–700–1A10 airplanes, respectively. Proposed AD Requirements in This NPRM This proposed AD would require repetitive recalculation of the consumed and remaining service life of certain LLPs and replacement of any LLP that has exceeded its approved life limit. Differences Between This Proposed AD and the MCAI or Service Information EASA AD 2018–0268 includes in its applicability engines installed and operated on a pre-mod airplane during a period of 24 months prior to the current installation. Instead of a period of 24 months, this AD proposes to apply to engines installed and operated on a pre-mod airplane at any time after January 1, 2017 to adjust for the additional time since publication of the EASA AD. In addition, EASA AD 2018–0268 requires an initial recalculation of E:\FR\FM\02APP1.SGM 02APP1 17328 Federal Register / Vol. 86, No. 62 / Friday, April 2, 2021 / Proposed Rules consumed and remaining service life of the low-pressure compressor (LPC) disk at each engine removal for maintenance within 250 flight cycles or 12 months, whichever occurs first after its effective date. EASA AD 2018–0268 also requires recalculation of the consumed and remaining life of the other affected LLPs after this period. This proposed AD does not include the initial recalculation of the consumed and remaining life of the LPC disk, but requires recalculation of consumed and remaining service life of the disk and all other affected LLPs within 90 days after the effective date of this proposed AD. The FAA determined that the initial recalculation of the consumed and remaining service life of the LPC disk, separately from the other LLPs, is not needed to resolve the unsafe condition because the 12-month initial inspection period in EASA AD 2018–0268 has passed. Costs of Compliance The FAA estimates that this AD, if adopted as proposed, would affect 284 engines installed on airplanes of U.S. registry. The FAA estimates the following costs to comply with this proposed AD: ESTIMATED COSTS Action Labor cost Parts cost Cost per product Cost on U.S. operators Recalculate service life for affected LLPs ...... 20 work-hours × $85 per hour = $85 ............. $0 $1,700 $482,800 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. jbell on DSKJLSW7X2PROD with PROPOSALS Regulatory Findings The FAA determined that this proposed AD would not have federalism implications under Executive Order 13132. This proposed AD would not have a substantial direct effect on the States, on the relationship between the 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 proposed regulation: (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. VerDate Sep<11>2014 17:07 Apr 01, 2021 Jkt 253001 List of Subjects in 14 CFR Part 39 Air transportation, Aircraft, Aviation safety, Incorporation by reference, Safety. The Proposed Amendment Accordingly, under the authority delegated to me by the Administrator, the FAA proposes to amend 14 CFR part 39 as follows: PART 39—AIRWORTHINESS DIRECTIVES 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: ■ Rolls-Royce Deutschland Ltd & Co KG (Type Certificate Previously held by RollsRoyce Deutschland GmbH, Formerly BMW Rolls-Royce GmbH): Docket No. FAA–2021–0257; Project Identifier MCAI–2020–00712–E. (a) Comments Due Date The FAA must receive comments on this airworthiness directive (AD) by May 17, 2021. (b) Affected ADs None. (c) Applicability This AD applies to Rolls-Royce Deutschland Ltd & Co KG (Type Certificate previously held by Rolls-Royce Deutschland GmbH, formerly BMW Rolls-Royce GmbH) (RRD) BR700–710A2–20 model turbofan engines: (1) Installed and operated on a Bombardier Model BD–700–1A10 and BD–700–1A11 airplane, with serial number 9381, 9386, 9401, or 9432 to 9786, inclusive, that have not incorporated Bombardier Service Bulletin (SB) 700–34–5021, Revision 3, dated January 5, 2018 or Bombardier SB 700–34–6021, Revision 3, dated January 5, 2018, as PO 00000 Frm 00007 Fmt 4702 Sfmt 4702 applicable, referred to after this as a ‘‘premod airplane,’’ or (2) Installed and operated on a pre-mod airplane at any time after January 1, 2017. (d) Subject Joint Aircraft System Component (JASC) Code 7230, Turbine Engine Compressor Section. (e) Unsafe Condition This AD was prompted by flight data obtained from airplanes equipped with certain Rockwell Collins avionics and autothrottle systems which demonstrated significant oscillation of the engine rotor revolution speed during flight. The FAA is issuing this AD to prevent failure of an affected life-limited part (LLP). The unsafe condition, if not addressed, could result in uncontained release of high-energy debris, damage to the engine, and damage to the airplane. (f) Compliance Comply with this AD within the compliance times specified, unless already done. (g) Required Actions (1) Within 90 days after the effective date of this AD, recalculate the consumed and remaining service life of each affected LLP using Accomplishment Instructions, paragraph 3.D., of RRD Alert NonModification Service Bulletin (NMSB) SB– BR700–72–A900584, Revision 2, dated November 22, 2017 (the NMSB). (2) For engines installed and operated on a pre-mod airplane, after performing the initial recalculations required by paragraph (g)(1) of this AD, for each flight, calculate the consumed and remaining service life of each affected LLP using paragraph 3.D. of the Accomplishment Instructions of the NMSB. (3) Remove each affected LLP prior to exceeding its approved life limit or within 90 days after the effective date of this AD, whichever occurs later. (h) Credit for Previous Actions You may take credit for the recalculation of the consumed and remaining service life of each LLP required by paragraph (g)(1) of this AD if the action was performed before E:\FR\FM\02APP1.SGM 02APP1 Federal Register / Vol. 86, No. 62 / Friday, April 2, 2021 / Proposed Rules the effective date of this AD using RRD Alert NMSB SB–BR700–72–A900584, Revision 1, dated October 5, 2017, or original issue, dated January 31, 2017. For the purpose of this AD, an affected LLP is: an LPC disk, LPC fan blade, fan shaft, lowpressure turbine (LPT) stage 1 disk, LPT stage 2 disk, LPT rotor shaft and annulus filler, high-pressure compressor (HPC) stage 1–6 rotor disk, HPC stage 7–10 rotor disk, curvic ring, high pressure turbine (HPT) stage 1 disk, and an HPT stage 2 disk. (j) Alternative Methods of Compliance (AMOCs) (1) The Manager, ECO Branch, FAA, has the authority to approve AMOCs for this AD, if requested using the procedures found in 14 CFR 39.19. In accordance with 14 CFR 39.19, send your request to your principal inspector or local Flight Standards District Office, as appropriate. If sending information directly to the manager of the certification office, send it to the attention of the person identified in 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. (k) Related Information (1) For more information about this AD, contact Wego Wang, Aviation Safety Engineer, ECO Branch, FAA, 1200 District Avenue, Burlington, MA 01803; phone: (781) 238–7134; fax: (781) 238–7199; email: Wego.Wang@faa.gov. (2) Refer to European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) AD 2018–0268, dated December 11, 2018, for more information. You may examine the EASA AD in the AD docket at https://www.regulations.gov by searching for and locating it in Docket No. FAA–2021–0257. (3) For service information identified in this AD, contact Rolls-Royce Deutschland Ltd & Co KG, Eschenweg 11, Dahlewitz, 15827 Blankenfelde-Mahlow, Germany; phone: +49 (0) 33 7086–4040; website: https://www.rollsroyce.com/contact-us.aspx. You may view this referenced 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. jbell on DSKJLSW7X2PROD with PROPOSALS Federal Aviation Administration 14 CFR Part 39 (i) Definition Issued on March 29, 2021. Lance T. Gant, Director, Compliance & Airworthiness Division, Aircraft Certification Service. [FR Doc. 2021–06800 Filed 4–1–21; 8:45 am] BILLING CODE 4910–13–P VerDate Sep<11>2014 DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION 16:28 Apr 01, 2021 Jkt 253001 [Docket No. FAA–2020–0985; Project Identifier 2018–SW–064–AD] RIN 2120–AA64 Airworthiness Directives; Airbus Helicopters Deutschland GmbH Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), DOT. ACTION: Proposed rule; withdrawal. AGENCY: The FAA is withdrawing a notice of proposed rulemaking (NPRM) that proposed to adopt a new airworthiness directive (AD) that would have applied to certain Airbus Helicopters Deutschland GmbH Model EC135P1, EC135T1, EC135P2, EC135T2, EC135P2+, EC135T2+, EC135P3, and EC135T3 helicopters. The NPRM was prompted by a deviation from a new manufacturing process and a determination that the deviation resulted in a reduced life limit (service life limit) for certain tail rotor (TR) blades. The NPRM would have required a reduced life limit for those TR blades and require a new life limit for certain other TR blades. Since issuance of the NPRM, the FAA has determined that the deviation from the new manufacturing process does not reduce the life limit of certain TR blades and that a new life limit is not needed for certain other blades. Accordingly, the NPRM is withdrawn. DATES: As of April 2, 2021, the proposed rule, which was published in the Federal Register on November 9, 2020 (85 FR 71286), is withdrawn. ADDRESSES: SUMMARY: 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– 0985; 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 AD action, any comments received, and other information. The street 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: Kristin Bradley, Aerospace Engineer, General Aviation & Rotorcraft Section, International Validation Branch, Compliance & Airworthiness Division, PO 00000 Frm 00008 Fmt 4702 Sfmt 4702 17329 FAA, 10101 Hillwood Pkwy., Fort Worth, TX 76177; telephone 817–222– 5110; email Kristin.Bradley@faa.gov. SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: Discussion The FAA has issued an NPRM that proposed to amend 14 CFR part 39 by adding an AD that would apply to the specified products. The NPRM was published in the Federal Register on November 9, 2020 (85 FR 71286). The NPRM was prompted by a deviation from a new manufacturing process and a determination that the deviation resulted in a reduced life limit (service life limit) for certain TR blades. The NPRM proposed to require a reduced life limit for those TR blades and require a new life limit for certain other TR blades. Actions Since the NPRM was Issued Since issuance of the NPRM, the FAA determined that the deviation from the new manufacturing process does not reduce the life limit of certain TR blades and that a new life limit is not needed for certain other blades. Affected parts can continue operation until the normal life limit with no compensation factor applied to reduce the life of the part. Therefore, the FAA has determined that AD action is not appropriate. Withdrawal of the NPRM constitutes only such action and does not preclude the FAA from further rulemaking on this issue, nor does it commit the FAA to any course of action in the future. Comments The FAA gave the public the opportunity to comment on the NPRM. The following presents the comments received on the NPRM and the FAA’s response to each comment. Request To Withdraw NPRM Airbus Helicopters requested that the NPRM be withdrawn. The commenter stated that EASA would be cancelling EASA AD 2018–0168, dated July 27, 2018, which prompted this NPRM. The commenter also noted that Airbus Helicopters service information was revised to remove the reduced life limit for the TR blades. The FAA agrees with the commenter’s request. Since publication of the NPRM, EASA has issued EASA AD 2018– 0168R1, dated December 18, 2020 (EASA AD 2018–0168R1). EASA has determined, and the FAA concurs, that the deviation in the new manufacturing process does not affect the life limit of the TR blades. Airbus Helicopters has revised the corresponding service information accordingly. The revised EASA AD allows continued operation of E:\FR\FM\02APP1.SGM 02APP1

Agencies

[Federal Register Volume 86, Number 62 (Friday, April 2, 2021)]
[Proposed Rules]
[Pages 17326-17329]
From the Federal Register Online via the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]
[FR Doc No: 2021-06800]


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DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION

Federal Aviation Administration

14 CFR Part 39

[Docket No. FAA-2021-0257; Project Identifier MCAI-2020-00712-E]
RIN 2120-AA64


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

AGENCY: Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), DOT.

ACTION: Notice of proposed rulemaking (NPRM).

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

SUMMARY: The FAA proposes to adopt a new airworthiness directive (AD) 
for certain Rolls-Royce Deutschland Ltd & Co KG (type certificate 
previously held by Rolls-Royce Deutschland GmbH, formerly BMW Rolls-
Royce GmbH) (RRD) BR700-710A2-20 model turbofan engines. This proposed 
AD was prompted by flight data obtained from airplanes equipped with 
certain Rockwell Collins avionics and auto-throttle systems that 
demonstrated significant oscillation of the engine rotor revolution 
speed during flight. This proposed AD would require initial and 
repetitive recalculation of the consumed and remaining service life of 
certain life-limited parts (LLPs). This proposed AD would also require 
removal of an LLP prior to its approved life limit or within 90 days 
after the effective date of this AD, whichever occurs later. The FAA is 
proposing this AD to address the unsafe condition on these products.

DATES: The FAA must receive comments on this proposed AD by May 17, 
2021.

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.

[[Page 17327]]

     Hand Delivery: Deliver to Mail address above between 9 
a.m. and 5 p.m., Monday through Friday, except Federal holidays.
    For service information identified in this NPRM, contact Rolls-
Royce Deutschland Ltd & Co KG, Eschenweg 11, Dahlewitz, 15827 
Blankenfelde-Mahlow, Germany; phone: +49 (0) 33 7086-4040; website: 
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.

Examining the AD Docket

    You may examine the AD docket at https://www.regulations.gov by 
searching for and locating Docket No. FAA-2021-0257; or in person at 
Docket Operations between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m., Monday through Friday, 
except Federal holidays. The AD docket contains this NPRM, the 
mandatory continuing airworthiness information (MCAI), any comments 
received, and other information. The street address for Docket 
Operations is listed above.

FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Wego Wang, Aviation Safety Engineer, 
ECO Branch, FAA, 1200 District Avenue, Burlington, MA 01803; phone: 
(781) 238-7134; fax: (781) 238-7199; email: [email protected].

SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: 

Comments Invited

    The FAA invites you to send any written relevant data, views, or 
arguments about this proposal. Send your comments to an address listed 
under ADDRESSES. Include ``Docket No. FAA-2021-0257; Project Identifier 
MCAI-2020-00712-E'' at the beginning of your comments. The most helpful 
comments reference a specific portion of the proposal, 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 proposal 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 FAA will also post a report summarizing each substantive 
verbal contact received about this NPRM.

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 final rule 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 final rule, 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 final rule. Submissions containing CBI 
should be sent to Wego Wang, 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.

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 2018-0268, dated December 11, 2018 and corrected on 
February 20, 2019 (referred to after this as ``the MCAI''), to address 
the unsafe condition on these products. The MCAI states:

    Flight data obtained from aeroplanes equipped with certain 
Rockwell Collins avionics and auto-throttle system demonstrated 
significant oscillation of the engine rotor revolution speed during 
cruise. Analysis indicates that this affects the service life of the 
affected LLP.
    This condition, if not corrected, may lead to failure of an 
affected LLP, possibly resulting in release of high-energy debris, 
with consequent damage to, and/or reduced control of, the aeroplane.
    To address this potentially unsafe condition, RRD issued the 
NMSB, providing instructions to recalculate the consumed and 
remaining service life of the affected LLP.
    For the reasons described above, this [EASA] AD requires 
repetitive recalculation of the service life (consumed and 
remaining) of each affected LLP and, depending on the results, 
replacement of each affected LLP before exceeding the life limit, 
taking the re-calculated life consumption into account.

    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-2021-0257.

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 and service information referenced 
above. The FAA is proposing this AD because the agency evaluated all 
the relevant information provided by EASA and determined 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 RRD Alert Non-Modification Service Bulletin (NMSB) 
SB-BR700-72-A900584, Revision 2, dated November 22, 2017 (the NMSB). 
The NMSB describes procedures for amending flight cycle counting 
requirements for affected LLPs on RRD BR700-710A2-20 model turbofan 
engines. 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.

Other Related Service Information

    The FAA reviewed Bombardier Service Bulletin (SB) 700-34-5021, 
Revision 03, dated January 5, 2018, and Bombardier SB 700-34-6021, 
Revision 03, dated January 5, 2018. These SBs describe procedures for 
the implementation of the Global Vision Flight Deck Version 5 (V5) 
software load on Bombardier Inc. Model BD-700-1A11 and BD-700-1A10 
airplanes, respectively.

Proposed AD Requirements in This NPRM

    This proposed AD would require repetitive recalculation of the 
consumed and remaining service life of certain LLPs and replacement of 
any LLP that has exceeded its approved life limit.

Differences Between This Proposed AD and the MCAI or Service 
Information

    EASA AD 2018-0268 includes in its applicability engines installed 
and operated on a pre-mod airplane during a period of 24 months prior 
to the current installation. Instead of a period of 24 months, this AD 
proposes to apply to engines installed and operated on a pre-mod 
airplane at any time after January 1, 2017 to adjust for the additional 
time since publication of the EASA AD.
    In addition, EASA AD 2018-0268 requires an initial recalculation of

[[Page 17328]]

consumed and remaining service life of the low-pressure compressor 
(LPC) disk at each engine removal for maintenance within 250 flight 
cycles or 12 months, whichever occurs first after its effective date. 
EASA AD 2018-0268 also requires recalculation of the consumed and 
remaining life of the other affected LLPs after this period. This 
proposed AD does not include the initial recalculation of the consumed 
and remaining life of the LPC disk, but requires recalculation of 
consumed and remaining service life of the disk and all other affected 
LLPs within 90 days after the effective date of this proposed AD. The 
FAA determined that the initial recalculation of the consumed and 
remaining service life of the LPC disk, separately from the other LLPs, 
is not needed to resolve the unsafe condition because the 12-month 
initial inspection period in EASA AD 2018-0268 has passed.

Costs of Compliance

    The FAA estimates that this AD, if adopted as proposed, would 
affect 284 engines installed on airplanes of U.S. registry.
    The FAA estimates the following costs to comply with this proposed 
AD:

                                                 Estimated Costs
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                                    Cost per       Cost on U.S.
               Action                        Labor cost           Parts cost        product         operators
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Recalculate service life for          20 work-hours x $85 per              $0           $1,700         $482,800
 affected LLPs.                        hour = $85.
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

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

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

The Proposed Amendment

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

PART 39--AIRWORTHINESS DIRECTIVES

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

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


Sec.  39.13   [Amended]

0
2. The FAA amends Sec.  39.13 by adding the following new airworthiness 
directive:

Rolls-Royce Deutschland Ltd & Co KG (Type Certificate Previously 
held by Rolls-Royce Deutschland GmbH, Formerly BMW Rolls-Royce 
GmbH): Docket No. FAA-2021-0257; Project Identifier MCAI-2020-00712-
E.

(a) Comments Due Date

    The FAA must receive comments on this airworthiness directive 
(AD) by May 17, 2021.

(b) Affected ADs

    None.

(c) Applicability

    This AD applies to Rolls-Royce Deutschland Ltd & Co KG (Type 
Certificate previously held by Rolls-Royce Deutschland GmbH, 
formerly BMW Rolls-Royce GmbH) (RRD) BR700-710A2-20 model turbofan 
engines:
    (1) Installed and operated on a Bombardier Model BD-700-1A10 and 
BD-700-1A11 airplane, with serial number 9381, 9386, 9401, or 9432 
to 9786, inclusive, that have not incorporated Bombardier Service 
Bulletin (SB) 700-34-5021, Revision 3, dated January 5, 2018 or 
Bombardier SB 700-34-6021, Revision 3, dated January 5, 2018, as 
applicable, referred to after this as a ``pre-mod airplane,'' or
    (2) Installed and operated on a pre-mod airplane at any time 
after January 1, 2017.

(d) Subject

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

(e) Unsafe Condition

    This AD was prompted by flight data obtained from airplanes 
equipped with certain Rockwell Collins avionics and auto-throttle 
systems which demonstrated significant oscillation of the engine 
rotor revolution speed during flight. The FAA is issuing this AD to 
prevent failure of an affected life-limited part (LLP). The unsafe 
condition, if not addressed, could result in uncontained release of 
high-energy debris, damage to the engine, and damage to the 
airplane.

(f) Compliance

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

(g) Required Actions

    (1) Within 90 days after the effective date of this AD, 
recalculate the consumed and remaining service life of each affected 
LLP using Accomplishment Instructions, paragraph 3.D., of RRD Alert 
Non-Modification Service Bulletin (NMSB) SB-BR700-72-A900584, 
Revision 2, dated November 22, 2017 (the NMSB).
    (2) For engines installed and operated on a pre-mod airplane, 
after performing the initial recalculations required by paragraph 
(g)(1) of this AD, for each flight, calculate the consumed and 
remaining service life of each affected LLP using paragraph 3.D. of 
the Accomplishment Instructions of the NMSB.
    (3) Remove each affected LLP prior to exceeding its approved 
life limit or within 90 days after the effective date of this AD, 
whichever occurs later.

(h) Credit for Previous Actions

    You may take credit for the recalculation of the consumed and 
remaining service life of each LLP required by paragraph (g)(1) of 
this AD if the action was performed before

[[Page 17329]]

the effective date of this AD using RRD Alert NMSB SB-BR700-72-
A900584, Revision 1, dated October 5, 2017, or original issue, dated 
January 31, 2017.

(i) Definition

    For the purpose of this AD, an affected LLP is: an LPC disk, LPC 
fan blade, fan shaft, low-pressure turbine (LPT) stage 1 disk, LPT 
stage 2 disk, LPT rotor shaft and annulus filler, high-pressure 
compressor (HPC) stage 1-6 rotor disk, HPC stage 7-10 rotor disk, 
curvic ring, high pressure turbine (HPT) stage 1 disk, and an HPT 
stage 2 disk.

(j) Alternative Methods of Compliance (AMOCs)

    (1) The Manager, ECO Branch, FAA, has the authority to approve 
AMOCs for this AD, if requested using the procedures found in 14 CFR 
39.19. In accordance with 14 CFR 39.19, send your request to your 
principal inspector or local Flight Standards District Office, as 
appropriate. If sending information directly to the manager of the 
certification office, send it to the attention of the person 
identified in 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.

(k) Related Information

    (1) For more information about this AD, contact Wego Wang, 
Aviation Safety Engineer, ECO Branch, FAA, 1200 District Avenue, 
Burlington, MA 01803; phone: (781) 238-7134; fax: (781) 238-7199; 
email: [email protected].
    (2) Refer to European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) AD 
2018-0268, dated December 11, 2018, for more information. You may 
examine the EASA AD in the AD docket at https://www.regulations.gov 
by searching for and locating it in Docket No. FAA-2021-0257.
    (3) For service information identified in this AD, contact 
Rolls-Royce Deutschland Ltd & Co KG, Eschenweg 11, Dahlewitz, 15827 
Blankenfelde-Mahlow, Germany; phone: +49 (0) 33 7086-4040; website: 
https://www.rolls-royce.com/contact-us.aspx. You may view this 
referenced 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.

    Issued on March 29, 2021.
Lance T. Gant,
Director, Compliance & Airworthiness Division, Aircraft Certification 
Service.
[FR Doc. 2021-06800 Filed 4-1-21; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE 4910-13-P
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