Airworthiness Directives; Pratt & Whitney Turbofan Engines, 21181-21185 [2021-08327]

Download as PDF Federal Register / Vol. 86, No. 76 / Thursday, April 22, 2021 / Rules and Regulations the consumer actually receives the disclosure. A debt collector may, but is not required to, provide the disclosure at the same time that the debt collector provides the consumer with any eviction notice or serves the consumer with any eviction action. For example, a debt collector may, but is not required to, include the disclosure in an envelope either on or with the eviction notice or in the same mailing in which the debt collector serves the consumer with an eviction action. 4. Frequency of disclosure. Section 1006.9(c)(1) does not require a debt collector to provide the disclosure described in § 1006.9(c)(1) more than once. However, nothing in § 1006.9(c)(1) prohibits a debt collector from providing the disclosure more than once, such as in each subsequent communication with the consumer. In addition, a debt collector does not violate FDCPA sections 807 (15 U.S.C. 1692e) or 808 (15 U.S.C. 1692f) merely because the debt collector provides the disclosure more than once. 5. Sample language. Section 1006.9(c)(1) requires a debt collector to disclose that the consumer may be eligible for temporary protection from eviction under the CDC Order. i. A debt collector may use, but is not required to use, the following language to satisfy § 1006.9(c)(1): ‘‘Because of the global COVID–19 pandemic, you may be eligible for temporary protection from eviction under Federal law. Learn the steps you should take now: visit www.cfpb.gov/eviction or call a housing counselor at 800–569–4287.’’ A debt collector does not violate FDCPA sections 807 (15 U.S.C. 1692e) or 808 (15 U.S.C. 1692f) merely because the debt collector provides the sample language in this comment 9(c)(1)–5.i to a consumer in a jurisdiction in which the CDC Order does not apply. ii. Alternatively, a debt collector may use, but is not required to use, the following language to satisfy § 1006.9(c)(1): ‘‘Because of the global COVID–19 pandemic, you may be eligible for temporary protection from eviction under the laws of your State, territory, locality, or tribal area, or under Federal law. Learn the steps you should take now: visit www.cfpb.gov/eviction or call a housing counselor at 800–569– 4287.’’ A debt collector does not violate FDCPA sections 807 (15 U.S.C. 1692e) or 808 (15 U.S.C. 1692f) merely because the debt collector provides the sample language in this comment 9(c)(1)–5.ii to a consumer in a jurisdiction in which only the CDC Order applies or in which the CDC Order does not apply. 6. Clear and conspicuous. A debt collector must provide the disclosure VerDate Sep<11>2014 16:23 Apr 21, 2021 Jkt 253001 described in § 1006.9(c)(1) clearly and conspicuously in writing. Clear and conspicuous means readily understandable. The location and type size also must be readily noticeable and legible to consumers, although no minimum type size is mandated. Dated: April 16, 2021. Laura Galban, Federal Register Liaison, Bureau of Consumer Financial Protection. [FR Doc. 2021–08303 Filed 4–21–21; 8:45 am] BILLING CODE 4810–AM–P DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION Federal Aviation Administration 14 CFR Part 39 [Docket No. FAA–2020–1116; Project Identifier AD–2020–00784–E; Amendment 39–21524; AD 2021–09–10] RIN 2120–AA64 Airworthiness Directives; Pratt & Whitney Turbofan Engines Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), DOT. ACTION: Final rule. AGENCY: The FAA is superseding Airworthiness Directive (AD) 2012–04– 15 for all Pratt & Whitney (PW) JT9D– 3A, JT9D–7, JT9D–7A, JT9D–7AH, JT9D–7F, JT9D–7H, JT9D–7J, JT9D–7Q, JT9D–7Q3, JT9D–7R4D, JT9D–7R4D1, JT9D–7R4E, JT9D–7R4E1, JT9D–7R4E4, JT9D–7R4G2, JT9D–7R4H1, JT9D–20, JT9D–20J, JT9D–59A, and JT9D–70A (JT9D) model turbofan engines. AD 2012–04–15 required revisions to the Airworthiness Limitations Section (ALS) of the manufacturer’s Instructions for Continued Airworthiness (ICA) to include required enhanced inspection of selected critical life-limited parts at each piece-part opportunity. AD 2012– 04–15 also required additional revisions to the ALS of the manufacturer’s ICA for JT9D model turbofan engines. This AD requires revising the required inspections of selected critical lifelimited parts specified in the ALS of the manufacturer’s ICA and, for air carriers, to the existing continuous airworthiness air carrier maintenance program (CAMP). The FAA is issuing this AD to address the unsafe condition on these products. DATES: This AD is effective May 27, 2021. ADDRESSES: SUMMARY: Examining the AD Docket You may examine the AD docket at https://www.regulations.gov by PO 00000 Frm 00019 Fmt 4700 Sfmt 4700 21181 searching for and locating Docket No. FAA–2020–1116; 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 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: Nicholas Paine, Aviation Safety Engineer, ECO Branch, FAA, 1200 District Avenue, Burlington, MA 01803; phone: (781) 238–7742; fax: (781) 238– 7199; email: nicholas.j.paine@faa.gov. SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: Background The FAA issued a notice of proposed rulemaking (NPRM) to amend 14 CFR part 39 to supersede AD 2012–04–15, Amendment 39–16971 (77 FR 15939, March 19, 2012), (AD 2012–04–15). AD 2012–04–15 applied to all PW JT9D model turbofan engines. The NPRM published in the Federal Register on December 15, 2020 (85 FR 81162). The NPRM was prompted by the need to require enhanced inspection of selected critical life-limited parts of PW JT9D model turbofan engines. Since the FAA issued AD 2012–04–15, PW identified errors in the list of mandatory inspections to add to the ALS. During review of the AD, PW found that AD 2012–04–15 did not include eddy current inspections of the fan hubs. Additionally, PW identified duplicate inspections of the HPT Stage 2 disk tie rod and web cooling holes. In the NPRM, the FAA proposed to require revising the required inspections of selected critical life-limited parts specified in the ALS of the manufacturer’s ICA and, for air carriers, to the existing CAMP. The FAA is issuing this AD to address the unsafe condition on these products. Discussion of Final Airworthiness Directive Comments The FAA received comments from two commenters. The commenters were Atlas Air Inc. (Atlas Air) and Boeing Commercial Airplanes (Boeing). The following presents the comments received on the NPRM and the FAA’s response to each comment. Request To Add Missing Figure Label Atlas Air requested that the FAA add the figure label to paragraph (g), Required Actions, of this AD. E:\FR\FM\22APR1.SGM 22APR1 21182 Federal Register / Vol. 86, No. 76 / Thursday, April 22, 2021 / Rules and Regulations The FAA agrees and notes that a formatting issue resulted in the missing figure label from Figure 1 to paragraph (g) in the NPRM. The FAA expects this formatting issue will be corrected with the publication of this final rule. Addition of Engine Models to Figure The FAA determined the need to update Figure 1 to paragraph (g) of this AD to specifically reference PW JT9D– 7R4G2, and JT9D–7R4H1 model turbofan engines. AD 2012–04–15 included these engines under ‘‘7R4 ALL,’’ however, the FAA inadvertently left these engines out of Figure 1 when identifying the individual engine models in the proposed rule. This revision does not change the number of affected engines that the FAA estimated in the NPRM and imposes no additional burden on operators of U.S. airplanes. changes and any other changes described previously, this AD is adopted as proposed in the NPRM. None of the changes will increase the economic burden on any operator. Support for the AD Boeing expressed support for the AD as written. Costs of Compliance Conclusion The FAA reviewed the relevant data, considered any comments received, and determined that air safety requires adopting the AD as proposed. Accordingly, the FAA is issuing this AD to address the unsafe condition on these products. Except for minor editorial The FAA estimates that this AD affects 27 engines installed on airplanes of U.S. registry. Based on updated information since the publication of AD 2012–04–15, the FAA reduced the estimated number of engines installed on airplanes of U.S. registry from 438 in AD 2012–04–15 to 27 in this final rule. The FAA estimates the following costs to comply with this AD: ESTIMATED COSTS Action Labor cost Update ALS ..................................................... 1 work-hour × $85 per 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 has determined that this AD will not have federalism implications under Executive Order 13132. This AD will not have a substantial direct effect on the States, on the relationship between the national government and the States, or on the distribution of power and responsibilities among the various levels of government. For the reasons discussed above, I certify that this AD: (1) Is not a ‘‘significant regulatory action’’ under Executive Order 12866, (2) Will not affect intrastate aviation in Alaska, and VerDate Sep<11>2014 16:23 Apr 21, 2021 Jkt 253001 (3) Will not have a significant economic impact, positive or negative, on a substantial number of small entities under the criteria of the Regulatory Flexibility Act. List of Subjects in 14 CFR Part 39 Air transportation, Aircraft, Aviation safety, Incorporation by reference, Safety. The Amendment Accordingly, under the authority delegated to me by the Administrator, the FAA amends 14 CFR part 39 as follows: PART 39—AIRWORTHINESS DIRECTIVES 1. The authority citation for part 39 continues to read as follows: ■ Authority: 49 U.S.C. 106(g), 40113, 44701. § 39.13 [Amended] 2. The FAA amends § 39.13 by: a. Removing Airworthiness Directive 2012–04–15, Amendment 39–16971 (77 FR 15939, March 19, 2012); and ■ b. Adding the following new airworthiness directive: ■ ■ 2021–09–10 Pratt & Whitney: Amendment 39–21524; Docket No. FAA–2020–1116; Project Identifier AD–2020–00784–E. (a) Effective Date This airworthiness directive (AD) is effective May 27, 2021. (b) Affected ADs This AD replaces AD 2012–04–15, Amendment 39–16971 (77 FR 15939, March 19, 2012). PO 00000 Frm 00020 Fmt 4700 Sfmt 4700 Cost per product Parts cost $0 $85 Cost on U.S. operators $2,295 (c) Applicability This AD applies to all Pratt & Whitney (PW) JT9D–3A, JT9D–7, JT9D–7A, JT9D– 7AH, JT9D–7F, JT9D–7H, JT9D–7J, JT9D–7Q, JT9D–7Q3, JT9D–7R4D, JT9D–7R4D1, JT9D– 7R4E, JT9D–7R4E1, JT9D–7R4E4, JT9D– 7R4G2, JT9D–7R4H1, JT9D–20, JT9D–20J, JT9D–59A, and JT9D–70A (JT9D) model turbofan engines. (d) Subject Joint Aircraft System Component (JASC) Code 7230, Turbine Engine Compressor Section. (e) Unsafe Condition This AD was prompted by the need to require enhanced inspection of selected critical life-limited parts of PW JT9D model turbofan engines. The FAA is issuing this AD to prevent the failure of critical life-limited rotating engine parts. The unsafe condition, if not addressed, could result in uncontained part release, damage to the engine, and damage to the airplane. (f) Compliance Comply with this AD within the compliance times specified, unless already done. (g) Required Actions Within 30 days after the effective date of this AD, add Figure 1 to paragraph (g) of this AD to the Airworthiness Limitations Section (ALS) of the manufacturer’s Instructions for Continued Airworthiness (ICA) and, for air carrier operations, to the existing continuous airworthiness air carrier maintenance program. BILLING CODE 4910–13–P E:\FR\FM\22APR1.SGM 22APR1 Federal Register / Vol. 86, No. 76 / Thursday, April 22, 2021 / Rules and Regulations 21183 Figure 1 to Paragraph (g) - Mandatory Inspections Mandatory Inspections (1) Inspect the following life-limited parts at each piece-part opportunity in accordance with the instructions provided in the applicable manual provisions: 3A/7/7A/7AH/7 F/7H/7 J/20/201 59A/70A VerDate Sep<11>2014 16:23 Apr 21, 2021 Engine Manual Part Number (PIN) *646028 (or the equivalent customized versions, 770407 and 770408) 754459 Jkt 253001 PO 00000 Part Nomenclature All Fan Hubs All Fan Hubs All HPC Stage 5 - 15 Disks and Rear Compressor Drive Turbine Shafts All HPT Stage 1-2 Disks and Hubs **All HPT Stage 1 Disk Web Cooling Holes All HPT Stage 2 Disk Web Tie rod Holes All LPT Stage 3 - 6 Disks and Hubs All Fan Hubs All Fan Hubs All HPC Stage 5 - 15 Disks and Rear Compressor Drive Turbine Shafts All HPT Stage 1-2 Disks and Hubs All HPT Stage 1 Disk Web Cooling Holes **All HPT Stage 2 Disk Tie rod and Web Cooling Holes All LPT Stage 3 - 6 Disks and Hubs Frm 00021 Fmt 4700 Sfmt 4725 Inspect per Manual Section 72-31-04 72-31-04 Inspection/ Check 72-35-00 Inspection-03 72-51-00 Inspection-03 72-51-02 Inspection -06 72-51-02 Inspection- 05 72-52-00 Inspection-03 72-31-04 72-31-00 72-35-00 Check-00 Check-00 Check-00 72-51-00 Check-03 72-51-02 Check-03 72-51-02 Check-04 72-52-00 Check-03 E:\FR\FM\22APR1.SGM Inspection-03 Inspection-02 22APR1 ER22AP21.000</GPH> Engine Model (JT9D-xxx) 21184 Federal Register / Vol. 86, No. 76 / Thursday, April 22, 2021 / Rules and Regulations Engine Model (JT9D-xxx) Engine Manual Part Nomenclature (PIN) 7Q/7Q3 777210 7R4D/7R4Dl/7 R4E/7R4E 1/7R4 E4/7R4G2/7R4H 1 785058, 785059,and 789328 All Fan Hubs All Fan Hubs All HPC Stage 5 - 15 Disks and Rear Compressor Drive Turbine Shafts All HPT Stage 1-2 Disks and Hubs All HPT Stage 1 Disk Web Cooling Holes ** All HPT Stage 2 Disk Tie rod and Web Cooling Holes All LPT Stage 3 - 6 Disks and Hubs All Fan Hubs ** All Fan Hub Slots Inspect per Manual Section 72-31-02 72-31-00 72-35-00 Inspection/ Check 72-51-00 Inspection-03 Inspection-03 Inspection-02 Inspection-03 Inspection-03 72-51-06 72-51-07 Inspection-03 72-52-00 Inspection-03 72-31-00 Inspection/Che ck-03 72-31-01 Inspection/Che ck-02 Inspection/Che ck 03 72-35-00 All HPC Stage 5 - 15 Disks and Rear Compressor Drive Turbine Shafts All HPT Stage 1-2 72-51-00 Inspection/Che Disks and Hubs ck 03 All LPT Stage 3 - 6 72-52-00 Inspection/Che Disks and Hubs ck 03 72-51-07 Inspection/Che ** All HPT Stage 2 Disk Tie rod and Web ck-02 Cooling Holes 7R4D/7R4Dl/7 All HPT Stage 1 Disk 72-51-06 Inspection/Che 785058 and R4E/7R4El Web Cooling Holes ck-02 785059 * PIN 770407 and 770408 are customized versions of PIN 646028 engine manual. ** Two asterisks identify the part nomenclatures and inspections added to the table. (2) For the purposes of these mandatory inspections, piece-part opportunity means: BILLING CODE 4910–13–C (h) 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 VerDate Sep<11>2014 16:23 Apr 21, 2021 Jkt 253001 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 PO 00000 Frm 00022 Fmt 4700 Sfmt 4700 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. E:\FR\FM\22APR1.SGM 22APR1 ER22AP21.001</GPH> (i) The part is considered completely disassembled when disassembly is in accordance with the disassembly instructions in the manufacturer's engine shop manual; and (ii) The part has accumulated more than 100 cycles-in-service since the last piece-part opportunity inspection, provided that the part was not damaged or related to the cause for its removal from the engine. Federal Register / Vol. 86, No. 76 / Thursday, April 22, 2021 / Rules and Regulations (i) Related Information For more information about this AD, contact Nicholas Paine, Aviation Safety Engineer, ECO Branch, FAA, 1200 District Avenue, Burlington, MA 01803; phone: (781) 238–7742; fax: (781) 238–7199; email: nicholas.j.paine@faa.gov. (j) Material Incorporated by Reference None. Issued on April 16, 2021. Lance T. Gant, Director, Compliance & Airworthiness Division, Aircraft Certification Service. [FR Doc. 2021–08327 Filed 4–21–21; 8:45 am] BILLING CODE 4910–13–P DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION Federal Aviation Administration 14 CFR Part 39 [Docket No. FAA–2021–0336; Project Identifier AD–2021–00293–Q; Amendment 39–21523; AD 2021–09–09] RIN 2120–AA64 Airworthiness Directives; Uninsured United Parachute Technologies, LLC Parachutes Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), DOT. ACTION: Final rule; request for comments. AGENCY: The FAA is adopting a new airworthiness directive (AD) for certain Uninsured United Parachute Technologies, LLC (UPT) parachutes. This AD results from reserve pin covers (RPCs) catching on the parachute container flaps and preventing the reserve parachute from deploying. This AD requires modifying the RPC before the next parachute jump and replacing the RPC at the next reserve parachute packing. The FAA is issuing this AD to address the unsafe condition on these products. SUMMARY: This AD is effective May 7, 2021. The Director of the Federal Register approved the incorporation by reference of certain publications listed in this AD as of May 7, 2021. The FAA must receive comments on this AD by June 7, 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– DATES: VerDate Sep<11>2014 16:23 Apr 21, 2021 Jkt 253001 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 UPT service information identified in this final rule, contact Uninsured United Parachute Technologies, LLC, Engineering Department, 1645 Lexington Avenue, Deland, FL 32724; phone: (386) 736– 7589; email: upt@uptvector.com; website: https://uptvector.com/productservice-bulletins/. You may view this service information at the FAA, Airworthiness Products Section, Operational Safety Branch, 901 Locust, Kansas City, MO 64106. For information on the availability of this material at the FAA, call (816) 329–4148. It is also available at https://www.regulations.gov by searching for and locating Docket No. FAA–2021–0336. Examining the AD Docket You may examine the AD docket at https://www.regulations.gov by searching for and locating Docket No. FAA–2021–0336; 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: Samuel Kovitch, Aerospace Safety Engineer, Atlanta ACO Branch, FAA, 1701 Columbia Avenue, College Park, GA 30337; phone: (404) 474–5570; fax: (404) 474–5605; email: samuel.kovitch@ faa.gov. SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: Background The FAA was notified by the Directorate General for Civil Aviation, which is the civil aviation authority for France, of an unsafe condition on certain UPT reserve parachute pin covers. Subsequent analysis revealed that, between May 2013 and January 2021, the container was manufactured with a redesign that increased the length of the RPC, causing it to catch and prevent the reserve parachute from deploying. UPT determined the affected parachutes are UPT Vector 3 SE containers manufactured between May 1, 2013, and January 31, 2021, in any of the following sizes: V3SE–360–1, V3SE–360–2, V3SE– 360–3, V3SE–361, V3SE–364, and V3SE–364–1. This condition, if not corrected, could cause failure of the reserve parachute to deploy when PO 00000 Frm 00023 Fmt 4700 Sfmt 4700 21185 needed. The FAA is issuing this AD to address the unsafe condition on these products. FAA’s Determination The FAA is issuing this AD because the agency has 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 Uninsured United Parachute Technologies, LLC, INSTRUCT–064, Revision 1, dated February 10, 2021. This service information specifies procedures for modifying the bottom tuck tab of the RPC on the parachute container. The FAA also reviewed Uninsured United Parachute Technologies, LLC, INSTRUCT–065, REV 0, dated February 12, 2021. This service information specifies procedures for replacing the RPC on the parachute container. 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 accomplishing the actions specified in the service information already described. 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, 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 because failure of the reserve parachute to deploy when needed will lead to the parachutist freefalling to the surface without being slowed, resulting in serious injury or death. Accordingly, notice and opportunity for prior public comment are impracticable and contrary E:\FR\FM\22APR1.SGM 22APR1

Agencies

[Federal Register Volume 86, Number 76 (Thursday, April 22, 2021)]
[Rules and Regulations]
[Pages 21181-21185]
From the Federal Register Online via the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]
[FR Doc No: 2021-08327]


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DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION

Federal Aviation Administration

14 CFR Part 39

[Docket No. FAA-2020-1116; Project Identifier AD-2020-00784-E; 
Amendment 39-21524; AD 2021-09-10]
RIN 2120-AA64


Airworthiness Directives; Pratt & Whitney Turbofan Engines

AGENCY: Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), DOT.

ACTION: Final rule.

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

SUMMARY: The FAA is superseding Airworthiness Directive (AD) 2012-04-15 
for all Pratt & Whitney (PW) JT9D-3A, JT9D-7, JT9D-7A, JT9D-7AH, JT9D-
7F, JT9D-7H, JT9D-7J, JT9D-7Q, JT9D-7Q3, JT9D-7R4D, JT9D-7R4D1, JT9D-
7R4E, JT9D-7R4E1, JT9D-7R4E4, JT9D-7R4G2, JT9D-7R4H1, JT9D-20, JT9D-
20J, JT9D-59A, and JT9D-70A (JT9D) model turbofan engines. AD 2012-04-
15 required revisions to the Airworthiness Limitations Section (ALS) of 
the manufacturer's Instructions for Continued Airworthiness (ICA) to 
include required enhanced inspection of selected critical life-limited 
parts at each piece-part opportunity. AD 2012-04-15 also required 
additional revisions to the ALS of the manufacturer's ICA for JT9D 
model turbofan engines. This AD requires revising the required 
inspections of selected critical life-limited parts specified in the 
ALS of the manufacturer's ICA and, for air carriers, to the existing 
continuous airworthiness air carrier maintenance program (CAMP). The 
FAA is issuing this AD to address the unsafe condition on these 
products.

DATES: This AD is effective May 27, 2021.

ADDRESSES: 

Examining the AD Docket

    You may examine the AD docket at https://www.regulations.gov by 
searching for and locating Docket No. FAA-2020-1116; 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 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: Nicholas Paine, Aviation Safety 
Engineer, ECO Branch, FAA, 1200 District Avenue, Burlington, MA 01803; 
phone: (781) 238-7742; fax: (781) 238-7199; email: 
[email protected].

SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION:

Background

    The FAA issued a notice of proposed rulemaking (NPRM) to amend 14 
CFR part 39 to supersede AD 2012-04-15, Amendment 39-16971 (77 FR 
15939, March 19, 2012), (AD 2012-04-15). AD 2012-04-15 applied to all 
PW JT9D model turbofan engines. The NPRM published in the Federal 
Register on December 15, 2020 (85 FR 81162). The NPRM was prompted by 
the need to require enhanced inspection of selected critical life-
limited parts of PW JT9D model turbofan engines. Since the FAA issued 
AD 2012-04-15, PW identified errors in the list of mandatory 
inspections to add to the ALS. During review of the AD, PW found that 
AD 2012-04-15 did not include eddy current inspections of the fan hubs. 
Additionally, PW identified duplicate inspections of the HPT Stage 2 
disk tie rod and web cooling holes. In the NPRM, the FAA proposed to 
require revising the required inspections of selected critical life-
limited parts specified in the ALS of the manufacturer's ICA and, for 
air carriers, to the existing CAMP. The FAA is issuing this AD to 
address the unsafe condition on these products.

Discussion of Final Airworthiness Directive

Comments

    The FAA received comments from two commenters. The commenters were 
Atlas Air Inc. (Atlas Air) and Boeing Commercial Airplanes (Boeing). 
The following presents the comments received on the NPRM and the FAA's 
response to each comment.

Request To Add Missing Figure Label

    Atlas Air requested that the FAA add the figure label to paragraph 
(g), Required Actions, of this AD.

[[Page 21182]]

    The FAA agrees and notes that a formatting issue resulted in the 
missing figure label from Figure 1 to paragraph (g) in the NPRM. The 
FAA expects this formatting issue will be corrected with the 
publication of this final rule.

Addition of Engine Models to Figure

    The FAA determined the need to update Figure 1 to paragraph (g) of 
this AD to specifically reference PW JT9D-7R4G2, and JT9D-7R4H1 model 
turbofan engines. AD 2012-04-15 included these engines under ``7R4 
ALL,'' however, the FAA inadvertently left these engines out of Figure 
1 when identifying the individual engine models in the proposed rule. 
This revision does not change the number of affected engines that the 
FAA estimated in the NPRM and imposes no additional burden on operators 
of U.S. airplanes.

Support for the AD

    Boeing expressed support for the AD as written.

Conclusion

    The FAA reviewed the relevant data, considered any comments 
received, and determined that air safety requires adopting the AD as 
proposed. Accordingly, the FAA is issuing this AD to address the unsafe 
condition on these products. Except for minor editorial changes and any 
other changes described previously, this AD is adopted as proposed in 
the NPRM. None of the changes will increase the economic burden on any 
operator.

Costs of Compliance

    The FAA estimates that this AD affects 27 engines installed on 
airplanes of U.S. registry. Based on updated information since the 
publication of AD 2012-04-15, the FAA reduced the estimated number of 
engines installed on airplanes of U.S. registry from 438 in AD 2012-04-
15 to 27 in this final rule.
    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
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Update ALS............................  1 work-hour x $85 per                 $0             $85          $2,295
                                         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 has determined that this AD will not have federalism 
implications under Executive Order 13132. This AD will not have a 
substantial direct effect on the States, on the relationship between 
the national government and the States, or on the distribution of power 
and responsibilities among the various levels of government.
    For the reasons discussed above, I certify that this AD:
    (1) Is not a ``significant regulatory action'' under Executive 
Order 12866,
    (2) Will not affect intrastate aviation in Alaska, and
    (3) Will not have a significant economic impact, positive or 
negative, on a substantial number of small entities under the criteria 
of the Regulatory Flexibility Act.

List of Subjects in 14 CFR Part 39

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

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:
0
a. Removing Airworthiness Directive 2012-04-15, Amendment 39-16971 (77 
FR 15939, March 19, 2012); and
0
b. Adding the following new airworthiness directive:

2021-09-10 Pratt & Whitney: Amendment 39-21524; Docket No. FAA-2020-
1116; Project Identifier AD-2020-00784-E.

(a) Effective Date

    This airworthiness directive (AD) is effective May 27, 2021.

(b) Affected ADs

    This AD replaces AD 2012-04-15, Amendment 39-16971 (77 FR 15939, 
March 19, 2012).

(c) Applicability

    This AD applies to all Pratt & Whitney (PW) JT9D-3A, JT9D-7, 
JT9D-7A, JT9D-7AH, JT9D-7F, JT9D-7H, JT9D-7J, JT9D-7Q, JT9D-7Q3, 
JT9D-7R4D, JT9D-7R4D1, JT9D-7R4E, JT9D-7R4E1, JT9D-7R4E4, JT9D-
7R4G2, JT9D-7R4H1, JT9D-20, JT9D-20J, JT9D-59A, and JT9D-70A (JT9D) 
model turbofan engines.

(d) Subject

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

(e) Unsafe Condition

    This AD was prompted by the need to require enhanced inspection 
of selected critical life-limited parts of PW JT9D model turbofan 
engines. The FAA is issuing this AD to prevent the failure of 
critical life-limited rotating engine parts. The unsafe condition, 
if not addressed, could result in uncontained part release, damage 
to the engine, and damage to the airplane.

(f) Compliance

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

(g) Required Actions

    Within 30 days after the effective date of this AD, add Figure 1 
to paragraph (g) of this AD to the Airworthiness Limitations Section 
(ALS) of the manufacturer's Instructions for Continued Airworthiness 
(ICA) and, for air carrier operations, to the existing continuous 
airworthiness air carrier maintenance program.
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(h) 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.

[[Page 21185]]

(i) Related Information

    For more information about this AD, contact Nicholas Paine, 
Aviation Safety Engineer, ECO Branch, FAA, 1200 District Avenue, 
Burlington, MA 01803; phone: (781) 238-7742; fax: (781) 238-7199; 
email: [email protected].

(j) Material Incorporated by Reference

    None.

    Issued on April 16, 2021.
Lance T. Gant,
Director, Compliance & Airworthiness Division, Aircraft Certification 
Service.
[FR Doc. 2021-08327 Filed 4-21-21; 8:45 am]
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