Airworthiness Directives; International Aero Engines AG Turbofan Engines, 35217-35221 [2021-14268]

Download as PDF 35217 Rules and Regulations Federal Register Vol. 86, No. 125 Friday, July 2, 2021 This section of the FEDERAL REGISTER contains regulatory documents having general applicability and legal effect, most of which are keyed to and codified in the Code of Federal Regulations, which is published under 50 titles pursuant to 44 U.S.C. 1510. The Code of Federal Regulations is sold by the Superintendent of Documents. DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION Federal Aviation Administration 14 CFR Part 39 [Docket No. FAA–2021–0509; Project Identifier AD–2021–00608–E; Amendment 39–21626; AD 2021–11–51] RIN 2120–AA64 Airworthiness Directives; International Aero Engines AG Turbofan Engines Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), DOT. ACTION: Final rule; request for comments. AGENCY: The FAA is adopting a new airworthiness directive (AD) for certain International Aero Engines AG (IAE) V2522–A5, V2524–A5, V2527–A5, V2527E–A5, V2527M–A5, V2530–A5, and V2533–A5 model turbofan engines. This AD was prompted by a review of investigative findings from an event involving an uncontained failure of a high-pressure turbine (HPT) 1st-stage disk that resulted in high-energy debris penetrating the engine cowling. This AD requires an ultrasonic inspection (USI) of affected HPT 1st-stage disks and HPT 2nd-stage disks and, depending on the results of the USI, removal of the affected HPT 1st-stage and HPT 2ndstage disks from service. The FAA previously sent an emergency AD to all known U.S. owners and operators of these engines and is now issuing this AD to address the unsafe condition on these products. DATES: This AD is effective July 19, 2021. Emergency AD 2021–11–51, issued on May 21, 2021, which contained the requirements of this amendment, was effective with actual notice. The Director of the Federal Register approved the incorporation by reference of certain publications identified in this AD as of July 13, 2021 (86 FR 30380, June 8, 2021). lotter on DSK11XQN23PROD with RULES1 SUMMARY: VerDate Sep<11>2014 16:05 Jul 01, 2021 Jkt 253001 The FAA must receive comments on this AD by August 16, 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. • 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: International Aero Engines AG, 400 Main Street, East Hartford, CT 06118; phone: (860) 565– 2391; email: help24@pw.utc.com; website: https://fleetcare.pw.utc.com. 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–2021–0509. Examining the AD Docket You may examine the AD docket at https://www.regulations.gov by searching for and locating Docket No. FAA–2021–0509; 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. FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Alberto Hernandez, Aviation Safety Engineer, ECO Branch, FAA, 1200 District Avenue, Burlington, MA 01803; phone: (781) 238–7329; fax: (781) 238– 7999; email: Alberto.J.Hernandez@ faa.gov. SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: Background On May 21, 2021, the FAA issued Emergency AD 2021–11–51 (the emergency AD), which requires a USI of affected HPT 1st-stage disks and HPT 2nd-stage disks installed on IAE V2522– PO 00000 Frm 00001 Fmt 4700 Sfmt 4700 A5, V2524–A5, V2527–A5, V2527E–A5, V2527M–A5, V2530–A5, and V2533–A5 model turbofan engines and, depending on the results of the USI, removal of the affected HPT disks from service. The FAA sent the emergency AD to all known U.S. owners and operators of these engines. That action was prompted by a review of investigative findings from an event involving an uncontained failure of an HPT 1st-stage disk that resulted in high-energy debris penetrating the engine cowling. This condition, if not addressed, could result in uncontained HPT failure, release of high-energy debris, damage to the engine, damage to the airplane, and loss of the airplane. FAA’s Determination The FAA is issuing this AD because the agency evaluated all the relevant information 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 IAE NonModification Service Bulletin (NMSB) V2500–ENG–72–0713, Revision 1, dated January 26, 2021 (IAE NMSB V2500– ENG–72–0713). IAE NMSB V2500– ENG–72–0713 specifies procedures for performing an ultrasonic inspection of the HPT 1st-stage disk and the HPT 2ndstage disk installed on IAE V2500–A5 and V2500–D5 series engines. The FAA also reviewed IAE NMSB V2500–E5–72–0015, dated December 15, 2020 (IAE NMSB V2500–E5–72– 0015). IAE NMSB V2500–E5–72–0015 specifies procedures for performing an ultrasonic inspection of the HPT 1ststage disk and the HPT 2nd-stage disk installed on V2500–E5 series engines. The Director of the Federal Register approved IAE NMSB V2500–ENG–72– 0713 and IAE NMSB V2500–E5–72– 0015 for incorporation by reference as of July 13, 2021 (86 FR 30380, June 8, 2021). 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 a USI of affected HPT 1st-stage disks and HPT 2nd-stage disks installed on IAE V2522–A5, E:\FR\FM\02JYR1.SGM 02JYR1 35218 Federal Register / Vol. 86, No. 125 / Friday, July 2, 2021 / Rules and Regulations V2524–A5, V2527–A5, V2527E–A5, V2527M–A5, V2530–A5, and V2533–A5 model turbofan engines and, depending on the results of the USI, removal of the affected HPT disks from service. Interim Action The FAA considers this AD interim action. The root cause of this event is still under investigation. 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 required the immediate adoption of Emergency AD 2021–11–51, issued on May 21, 2021, to all known U.S. owners and operators of these engines. The FAA has found that the risk to the flying public justified forgoing notice and comment prior to adoption of this rule. On March 18, 2020, an Airbus Model A321–231 airplane, powered by IAE V2533–A5 model turbofan engines, experienced an uncontained HPT 1ststage disk failure that resulted in an aborted takeoff. The uncontained failure of the HPT 1st-stage disk resulted in high-energy debris penetrating the engine cowling. The FAA published Emergency AD 2020–07–51 on March 21, 2020 (followed by publication in the Federal Register on April 13, 2020, as a Final Rule, Request for Comments (85 FR 20402)), to remove from service HPT 1st-stage disks identified as having the highest risk of failure. Based on a review of investigative findings performed since that event, the manufacturer has identified a different population of affected HPT 1st-stage and HPT 2ndstage disks that are affected by the same unsafe condition and require USI and, depending on the results of the USI, removal from service. The FAA considers removal of highrisk HPT 1st-stage and 2nd-stage disks to be an urgent safety issue. The USI of the affected HPT disks must be accomplished within 10 flight cycles after the effective date of this AD to identify HPT 1st-stage and 2nd-stage disks at risk of failure and to maintain an acceptable level of safety. This unsafe condition may result in loss of the airplane. These conditions still exist, and therefore, notice and opportunity for prior public comment are impracticable and contrary to public interest pursuant to 5 U.S.C. 553(b)(3)(B). In addition, for the reasons stated above, 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 finds 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 No. FAA–2021–0509 and Project Identifier AD–2021–00608– 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 Alberto Hernandez, 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 FAA has determined that it has good cause to adopt this rule without prior notice and comment, RFA analysis is not required. Costs of Compliance The FAA estimates that this AD affects 2 engines installed on airplanes of U.S. registry. The FAA estimates the following costs to comply with this AD: lotter on DSK11XQN23PROD with RULES1 ESTIMATED COSTS Action Labor cost Ultrasonic inspection (includes actions necessary to disassemble the engine). 204 work-hours × $85 per hour = $17,340. The FAA estimates the following costs to do any necessary replacements that would be required based on the VerDate Sep<11>2014 16:05 Jul 01, 2021 Jkt 253001 results of the inspection. The agency has no way of determining the number of PO 00000 Frm 00002 Fmt 4700 Sfmt 4700 Cost per product Parts cost $0 Cost on U.S. operators $17,340 aircraft that might need these replacements: E:\FR\FM\02JYR1.SGM 02JYR1 $34,680 Federal Register / Vol. 86, No. 125 / Friday, July 2, 2021 / Rules and Regulations 35219 ON-CONDITION COSTS Action Labor cost Replace the HPT 1st-stage disk or HPT 2nd-stage disk. 0 work-hours × $85 per hour = $0 ............................... 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. lotter on DSK11XQN23PROD with RULES1 Regulatory Findings This AD will not have federalism implications under Executive Order 13132. This AD will not have a substantial direct effect on the States, on the relationship between the national government and the States, or on the distribution of power and responsibilities among the various levels of government. For the reasons discussed above, I certify that this AD: (1) Is not a ‘‘significant regulatory action’’ under Executive Order 12866, and (2) Will not affect intrastate aviation in Alaska. VerDate Sep<11>2014 16:05 Jul 01, 2021 Jkt 253001 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: Parts cost $300,000 Cost per product $300,000 (1) A high-pressure turbine (HPT) 1st-stage disk, part number (P/N) 2A5001, with serial number (S/N), PKLBR34908, PKLBR59989, PKLBR83471, PKLBSC9996, PKLBSG0105, PKLBSG9043 or PKLBSH1829, installed; or (2) An HPT 2nd-stage disk, P/N 2A4802, with S/N PKLBR87800, PKLBR88708 PKLBR89452, PKLBSA9907, PKLBSH9246, PKLBSC8066, PKLBSC8077, or PKLBSG2213, installed. (d) Subject PART 39—AIRWORTHINESS DIRECTIVES Joint Aircraft System Component (JASC) Code 7250, Turbine Section. 1. The authority citation for part 39 continues to read as follows: (e) Unsafe Condition ■ 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: ■ 2021–11–51 International Aero Engines AG: Amendment 39–21626; Docket No. FAA–2021–0509; Project Identifier AD– 2021–00608–E. (a) Effective Date This airworthiness directive (AD) is effective without actual notice on July 19, 2021. Emergency AD 2021–11–51, issued on May 21, 2021, which contained the requirements of this amendment, was effective with actual notice. (b) Affected ADs None. (c) Applicability This AD applies to International Aero Engines AG (IAE) V2522–A5, V2524–A5, V2527–A5, V2527E–A5, V2527M–A5, V2530–A5, and V2533–A5 model turbofan engines with: PO 00000 Frm 00003 Fmt 4700 Sfmt 4700 This AD was prompted by a review of investigative findings from an event involving an uncontained failure of an HPT 1st-stage disk that resulted in high-energy debris penetrating the engine cowling. The FAA is issuing this AD to prevent failure of the HPT. The unsafe condition, if not addressed, could result in uncontained HPT failure, release of high-energy debris, damage to the engine, damage to the airplane, and loss of the airplane. (f) Compliance Comply with this AD within the compliance times specified, unless already done. (g) Required Actions (1) For affected engines with an installed HPT 1st-stage disk listed in Table 1 to paragraph (g)(1) of this AD, within 10 flight cycles after the effective date of this AD, perform an ultrasonic inspection (USI) of the HPT 1st-stage disk using the Accomplishment Instructions, paragraph 6, of IAE Non-Modification Service Bulletin (NMSB) V2500–ENG–72–0713, Revision 1, dated January 26, 2021 (IAE NMSB V2500– ENG–72–0713). E:\FR\FM\02JYR1.SGM 02JYR1 35220 Federal Register / Vol. 86, No. 125 / Friday, July 2, 2021 / Rules and Regulations Table 1 to Paragraph (g)(l)-HPT 1st-Stage Disk with Known Engine Installations Engine Serial Number HPT 1st-Stage Disk Serial Number Vl1020 PKLBSC9996 V12788 PKLBR59989 V13037 PKLBSH1829 Vl5159 PKLBR34908 Vl6796 PKLBSG9043 V16799 PKLBSG0105 Vl6912 PKLBR83471 (2) For affected engines with an installed HPT 2nd-stage disk listed in Table 2 to paragraph (g)(2) of this AD, within 10 flight cycles after the effective date of this AD, perform a USI of the HPT 2nd-stage disk using the Accomplishment Instructions, paragraph 7, of IAE NMSB V2500–ENG–72– 0713. HPT 2nd-Stage Disk Serial Number Vl1901 PKLBSG2213 V12308 PKLBSH9246 Vl2644 PKLBSC8066 V13111 PKLBR89452 V15434 PKLBR88708 V15737 PKLBSC8077 Vl6085 PKLBSA9907 Vl7869 PKLBR87800 (3) If, during the USI required by paragraphs (g)(1) and (2) of this AD, an HPT 1st-stage disk or HPT 2nd-stage disk does not pass the USI as specified in the Accomplishment Instructions, paragraph 8., of IAE NMSB V2500–ENG–72–0713, Revision 1, before further flight, remove the HPT 1st-stage disk or 2nd-stage disk, as applicable, from service and replace with a part eligible for installation. lotter on DSK11XQN23PROD with RULES1 (h) Definition For the purpose for this AD, a ‘‘part eligible for installation’’ is: (1) An HPT 1st-stage disk or HPT 2nd-stage disk listed in Appendix A, Tables 1 and 2, of IAE NMSB V2500–ENG–72–0713, or Appendix A, Tables 1 and 2, of IAE NMSB V2500–E5–72–0015, dated December 15, 2020 (IAE NMSB V2500–E5–72–0015) that has passed the USI as specified in the Accomplishment Instructions, paragraph 8., of IAE NMSB V2500–ENG–72–0713 or NMSB V2500–E5–72–0015, or (2) An HPT 1st-stage disk or HPT 2nd-stage disk that is not listed in Appendix A, Tables 1 and 2, of IAE NMSB V2500–ENG–72–0713 VerDate Sep<11>2014 16:05 Jul 01, 2021 Jkt 253001 or Appendix A, Tables 1 and 2, of IAE NMSB V2500–E5–72–0015. 238–7329; fax: (781) 238–7999; email: Alberto.J.Hernandez@faa.gov. (i) 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) 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. (3) The following service information was approved for IBR on July 13, 2021 (86 FR 30380, June 8, 2021). (i) IAE Non-Modification Service Bulletin (NMSB) V2500–ENG–72–0713, Revision 1, dated January 26, 2021. (ii) IAE NMSB V2500–E5–72–0015, dated December 15, 2020. (4) For International Aero Engines service information identified in this AD, contact International Aero Engines AG, 400 Main Street, East Hartford, CT 06118; phone: (860) 565–2391; email: help24@pw.utc.com; website: https://fleetcare.pw.utc.com. (5) You may view this service information at FAA, Airworthiness Products Section, (j) Related Information For more information about this AD, contact Alberto Hernandez, Aviation Safety Engineer, ECO Branch, FAA, 1200 District Avenue, Burlington, MA 01803; phone: (781) PO 00000 Frm 00004 Fmt 4700 Sfmt 4700 E:\FR\FM\02JYR1.SGM 02JYR1 ER02JY21.000</GPH> Engine Serial Number ER02JY21.001</GPH> Table 2 to Paragraph (g)(2) - HPT 2nd-Stage Disk with Known Engine Installation Federal Register / Vol. 86, No. 125 / Friday, July 2, 2021 / Rules and Regulations Operational Safety Branch, 1200 District Avenue, Burlington, MA 01803. For information on the availability of this material at the FAA, call (781) 238–7759. (6) 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 June 18, 2021. Lance T. Gant, Director, Compliance & Airworthiness Division, Aircraft Certification Service. [FR Doc. 2021–14268 Filed 6–30–21; 11:15 am] BILLING CODE 4910–13–P DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION Federal Aviation Administration 14 CFR Part 71 [Docket No. FAA–2020–0701; Airspace Docket No. 20–ASO–19] RIN 2120–AA66 Establishment of Class D Airspace and Amendment of Class E Airspace; Nashville, TN; Correction Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), DOT. ACTION: Final rule; correction. AGENCY: lotter on DSK11XQN23PROD with RULES1 VerDate Sep<11>2014 16:05 Jul 01, 2021 Jkt 253001 History The FAA published a final rule in the Federal Register (85 FR 76958; December 1, 2020) for Docket FAA– 2020–0701 establishing Class D airspace and Class E airspace designated as an extension to a Class D or Class E surface area, and amending Class E airspace extending upward from 700 feet above the surface. Subsequent to publication, the FAA identified errors in how the Class D airspace is described, as well as determining the Class E surface extensions needed to be added to the Class D description. This action corrects these errors. Class D and Class E airspace designations are published in Paragraph 5000, 6004 and 6005, respectively, of FAA Order 7400.11E, dated July 21, 2020, and effective September 15, 2020, which is incorporated by reference in 14 CFR 71.1. The Class E airspace designations listed in this document will be published subsequently in the Order. advance by a Notice to Airmen. The effective dates and times will thereafter be continuously published in the Chart Supplement. Correction to Final Rule Accordingly, pursuant to the authority delegated to me, Amendment of the Class D Airspace and Class E Airspace; Nashville, TN, published in the Federal Register of December 1, 2020 (85 FR 76958), FR Doc. 2020– 26439, is corrected as follows: AGENCY: § 71.1 The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) is correcting a final rule that appeared in the Federal Register on December 1, 2020, establishing Class D and E airspace for John C. Tune Airport, Nashville, TN. This action corrects the legal description of the Class D airspace by amending the ceiling to 2,500 feet, adding the Class E extensions to the Class D description, and adjusting the extension bearings. In addition, this action removes the Class E airspace designated as an extension to a Class D or Class E surface area, established in the final rule. DATES: Effective 0901 UTC, August 12, 2021. The Director of the Federal Register approves this incorporation by reference action under 1 CFR part 51, subject to the annual revision of FAA Order 7400.11 and publication of conforming amendments. FOR FURTHER INFORMATION, CONTACT: John Fornito, Operations Support Group, Eastern Service Center, Federal Aviation Administration, 1701 Columbia Avenue, College Park, GA 30337; telephone (404) 305–6364. SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: SUMMARY: 35221 [Corrected] 1. On page 76958, in the second column, beginning on line 49, the subject heading is corrected to read as follows: Establishment of Class D and Amendment of Class E Airspace; Nashville, TN. ■ § 71.1 [Corrected] 2. On page 76959, in the first column, beginning on line 53, the description of the airspace is corrected to read as follows: establishes Class D airspace for John C. Tune Airport, Nashville, TN, as a new air traffic control tower shall service the airport. ■ § 71.1 [Corrected] 3. On page 76959, in the third column, beginning on line 22, the description of the Class D airspace is corrected to read as follows: ■ That airspace upward from the surface to and including 2,500 feet MSL within a 4.1mile radius of John C. Tune Airport, and within 1.2-miles each side of the 195° bearing from the airport, extending from the 4.1-mile radius to 6.1-miles south of the airport, and within 1.2-miles each side of the 015° bearing from the airport, extending from the 4.1-mile radius to 6.1-miles north of the airport. This Class D airspace area is effective during the specific dates and times established in PO 00000 Frm 00005 Fmt 4700 Sfmt 4700 § 71.1 [Corrected] 4. On page 76959, in the third column, remove lines 31 through 45, without replacement. ■ Issued in College Park, Georgia, on June 28, 2021. Matthew N. Cathcart, Acting Manager, Operations Support Group, Eastern Service Center, Air Traffic Organization. [FR Doc. 2021–14164 Filed 7–1–21; 8:45 am] BILLING CODE 4910–13–P RAILROAD RETIREMENT BOARD 20 CFR Part 200 RIN 3220–AB70 General Administration: Availability of Information to the Public Railroad Retirement Board. Interim final rule with request for comments. ACTION: The Railroad Retirement Board (RRB) amends its regulations to comply with the requirements of the Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) Improvement Act of 2016 and to make certain corrections. In addition, this rule amends certain provisions in the fee section to reflect developments in the law and to streamline the description of the factors considered when making fee waiver determinations. DATES: Effective date: This rule is effective July 2, 2021. Comment due date: Comments are due by August 2, 2021. ADDRESSES: You may send comments, identified by RIN 3220–AB70, by any of the following methods: Email: SecretarytotheBoard@RRB.gov. Include RIN 3220–AB70 in the subject line of the message. Mail: Secretary to the Board, Railroad Retirement Board, 844 N Rush St., Chicago, IL 60611–1275. Instructions: All submissions received must include the agency name and docket number or Regulatory Information Number (RIN) for this rulemaking. For detailed instructions on sending comments and additional information on the rulemaking process, see the ‘‘Public Participation’’ heading of the SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION section of this document. FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Marguerite P. Dadabo, (312) 751–4945, SUMMARY: E:\FR\FM\02JYR1.SGM 02JYR1

Agencies

[Federal Register Volume 86, Number 125 (Friday, July 2, 2021)]
[Rules and Regulations]
[Pages 35217-35221]
From the Federal Register Online via the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]
[FR Doc No: 2021-14268]



========================================================================
Rules and Regulations
                                                Federal Register
________________________________________________________________________

This section of the FEDERAL REGISTER contains regulatory documents 
having general applicability and legal effect, most of which are keyed 
to and codified in the Code of Federal Regulations, which is published 
under 50 titles pursuant to 44 U.S.C. 1510.

The Code of Federal Regulations is sold by the Superintendent of Documents. 

========================================================================


Federal Register / Vol. 86, No. 125 / Friday, July 2, 2021 / Rules 
and Regulations

[[Page 35217]]



DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION

Federal Aviation Administration

14 CFR Part 39

[Docket No. FAA-2021-0509; Project Identifier AD-2021-00608-E; 
Amendment 39-21626; AD 2021-11-51]
RIN 2120-AA64


Airworthiness Directives; International Aero Engines AG Turbofan 
Engines

AGENCY: Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), DOT.

ACTION: Final rule; request for comments.

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

SUMMARY: The FAA is adopting a new airworthiness directive (AD) for 
certain International Aero Engines AG (IAE) V2522-A5, V2524-A5, V2527-
A5, V2527E-A5, V2527M-A5, V2530-A5, and V2533-A5 model turbofan 
engines. This AD was prompted by a review of investigative findings 
from an event involving an uncontained failure of a high-pressure 
turbine (HPT) 1st-stage disk that resulted in high-energy debris 
penetrating the engine cowling. This AD requires an ultrasonic 
inspection (USI) of affected HPT 1st-stage disks and HPT 2nd-stage 
disks and, depending on the results of the USI, removal of the affected 
HPT 1st-stage and HPT 2nd-stage disks from service. The FAA previously 
sent an emergency AD to all known U.S. owners and operators of these 
engines and is now issuing this AD to address the unsafe condition on 
these products.

DATES: This AD is effective July 19, 2021. Emergency AD 2021-11-51, 
issued on May 21, 2021, which contained the requirements of this 
amendment, was effective with actual notice.
    The Director of the Federal Register approved the incorporation by 
reference of certain publications identified in this AD as of July 13, 
2021 (86 FR 30380, June 8, 2021).
    The FAA must receive comments on this AD by August 16, 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.
     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: 
International Aero Engines AG, 400 Main Street, East Hartford, CT 
06118; phone: (860) 565-2391; email: [email protected]; website: https://fleetcare.pw.utc.com. 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-2021-0509.

Examining the AD Docket

    You may examine the AD docket at https://www.regulations.gov by 
searching for and locating Docket No. FAA-2021-0509; 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.

FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Alberto Hernandez, Aviation Safety 
Engineer, ECO Branch, FAA, 1200 District Avenue, Burlington, MA 01803; 
phone: (781) 238-7329; fax: (781) 238-7999; email: 
[email protected].

SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION:

Background

    On May 21, 2021, the FAA issued Emergency AD 2021-11-51 (the 
emergency AD), which requires a USI of affected HPT 1st-stage disks and 
HPT 2nd-stage disks installed on IAE V2522-A5, V2524-A5, V2527-A5, 
V2527E-A5, V2527M-A5, V2530-A5, and V2533-A5 model turbofan engines 
and, depending on the results of the USI, removal of the affected HPT 
disks from service. The FAA sent the emergency AD to all known U.S. 
owners and operators of these engines. That action was prompted by a 
review of investigative findings from an event involving an uncontained 
failure of an HPT 1st-stage disk that resulted in high-energy debris 
penetrating the engine cowling. This condition, if not addressed, could 
result in uncontained HPT failure, release of high-energy debris, 
damage to the engine, damage to the airplane, and loss of the airplane.

FAA's Determination

    The FAA is issuing this AD because the agency evaluated all the 
relevant information 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 IAE Non-Modification Service Bulletin (NMSB) 
V2500-ENG-72-0713, Revision 1, dated January 26, 2021 (IAE NMSB V2500-
ENG-72-0713). IAE NMSB V2500-ENG-72-0713 specifies procedures for 
performing an ultrasonic inspection of the HPT 1st-stage disk and the 
HPT 2nd-stage disk installed on IAE V2500-A5 and V2500-D5 series 
engines.
    The FAA also reviewed IAE NMSB V2500-E5-72-0015, dated December 15, 
2020 (IAE NMSB V2500-E5-72-0015). IAE NMSB V2500-E5-72-0015 specifies 
procedures for performing an ultrasonic inspection of the HPT 1st-stage 
disk and the HPT 2nd-stage disk installed on V2500-E5 series engines.
    The Director of the Federal Register approved IAE NMSB V2500-ENG-
72-0713 and IAE NMSB V2500-E5-72-0015 for incorporation by reference as 
of July 13, 2021 (86 FR 30380, June 8, 2021). 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 a USI of affected HPT 1st-stage disks and HPT 2nd-
stage disks installed on IAE V2522-A5,

[[Page 35218]]

V2524-A5, V2527-A5, V2527E-A5, V2527M-A5, V2530-A5, and V2533-A5 model 
turbofan engines and, depending on the results of the USI, removal of 
the affected HPT disks from service.

Interim Action

    The FAA considers this AD interim action. The root cause of this 
event is still under investigation.

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 required the immediate adoption of 
Emergency AD 2021-11-51, issued on May 21, 2021, to all known U.S. 
owners and operators of these engines. The FAA has found that the risk 
to the flying public justified forgoing notice and comment prior to 
adoption of this rule.
    On March 18, 2020, an Airbus Model A321-231 airplane, powered by 
IAE V2533-A5 model turbofan engines, experienced an uncontained HPT 
1st-stage disk failure that resulted in an aborted takeoff. The 
uncontained failure of the HPT 1st-stage disk resulted in high-energy 
debris penetrating the engine cowling. The FAA published Emergency AD 
2020-07-51 on March 21, 2020 (followed by publication in the Federal 
Register on April 13, 2020, as a Final Rule, Request for Comments (85 
FR 20402)), to remove from service HPT 1st-stage disks identified as 
having the highest risk of failure. Based on a review of investigative 
findings performed since that event, the manufacturer has identified a 
different population of affected HPT 1st-stage and HPT 2nd-stage disks 
that are affected by the same unsafe condition and require USI and, 
depending on the results of the USI, removal from service.
    The FAA considers removal of high-risk HPT 1st-stage and 2nd-stage 
disks to be an urgent safety issue. The USI of the affected HPT disks 
must be accomplished within 10 flight cycles after the effective date 
of this AD to identify HPT 1st-stage and 2nd-stage disks at risk of 
failure and to maintain an acceptable level of safety. This unsafe 
condition may result in loss of the airplane. These conditions still 
exist, and therefore, notice and opportunity for prior public comment 
are impracticable and contrary to public interest pursuant to 5 U.S.C. 
553(b)(3)(B).
    In addition, for the reasons stated above, 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 finds 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 No. FAA-2021-0509 and Project Identifier 
AD-2021-00608-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 Alberto 
Hernandez, 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 FAA has determined 
that it has good cause to adopt this rule without prior notice and 
comment, RFA analysis is not required.

Costs of Compliance

    The FAA estimates that this AD affects 2 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
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Ultrasonic inspection (includes         204 work-hours x $85 per              $0         $17,340         $34,680
 actions necessary to disassemble the    hour = $17,340.
 engine).
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

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

[[Page 35219]]



                                               On-Condition Costs
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                                                     Cost per
                    Action                                 Labor cost               Parts cost        product
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Replace the HPT 1st-stage disk or HPT 2nd-      0 work-hours x $85 per hour = $0        $300,000        $300,000
 stage disk.
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

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.
    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:

2021-11-51 International Aero Engines AG: Amendment 39-21626; Docket 
No. FAA-2021-0509; Project Identifier AD-2021-00608-E.

(a) Effective Date

    This airworthiness directive (AD) is effective without actual 
notice on July 19, 2021. Emergency AD 2021-11-51, issued on May 21, 
2021, which contained the requirements of this amendment, was 
effective with actual notice.

(b) Affected ADs

    None.

(c) Applicability

    This AD applies to International Aero Engines AG (IAE) V2522-A5, 
V2524-A5, V2527-A5, V2527E-A5, V2527M-A5, V2530-A5, and V2533-A5 
model turbofan engines with:
    (1) A high-pressure turbine (HPT) 1st-stage disk, part number 
(P/N) 2A5001, with serial number (S/N), PKLBR34908, PKLBR59989, 
PKLBR83471, PKLBSC9996, PKLBSG0105, PKLBSG9043 or PKLBSH1829, 
installed; or
    (2) An HPT 2nd-stage disk, P/N 2A4802, with S/N PKLBR87800, 
PKLBR88708 PKLBR89452, PKLBSA9907, PKLBSH9246, PKLBSC8066, 
PKLBSC8077, or PKLBSG2213, installed.

(d) Subject

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

(e) Unsafe Condition

    This AD was prompted by a review of investigative findings from 
an event involving an uncontained failure of an HPT 1st-stage disk 
that resulted in high-energy debris penetrating the engine cowling. 
The FAA is issuing this AD to prevent failure of the HPT. The unsafe 
condition, if not addressed, could result in uncontained HPT 
failure, release of high-energy debris, damage to the engine, damage 
to the airplane, and loss of the airplane.

(f) Compliance

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

(g) Required Actions

    (1) For affected engines with an installed HPT 1st-stage disk 
listed in Table 1 to paragraph (g)(1) of this AD, within 10 flight 
cycles after the effective date of this AD, perform an ultrasonic 
inspection (USI) of the HPT 1st-stage disk using the Accomplishment 
Instructions, paragraph 6, of IAE Non-Modification Service Bulletin 
(NMSB) V2500-ENG-72-0713, Revision 1, dated January 26, 2021 (IAE 
NMSB V2500-ENG-72-0713).

[[Page 35220]]

[GRAPHIC] [TIFF OMITTED] TR02JY21.000

    (2) For affected engines with an installed HPT 2nd-stage disk 
listed in Table 2 to paragraph (g)(2) of this AD, within 10 flight 
cycles after the effective date of this AD, perform a USI of the HPT 
2nd-stage disk using the Accomplishment Instructions, paragraph 7, 
of IAE NMSB V2500-ENG-72-0713.
[GRAPHIC] [TIFF OMITTED] TR02JY21.001

    (3) If, during the USI required by paragraphs (g)(1) and (2) of 
this AD, an HPT 1st-stage disk or HPT 2nd-stage disk does not pass 
the USI as specified in the Accomplishment Instructions, paragraph 
8., of IAE NMSB V2500-ENG-72-0713, Revision 1, before further 
flight, remove the HPT 1st-stage disk or 2nd-stage disk, as 
applicable, from service and replace with a part eligible for 
installation.

(h) Definition

    For the purpose for this AD, a ``part eligible for 
installation'' is:
    (1) An HPT 1st-stage disk or HPT 2nd-stage disk listed in 
Appendix A, Tables 1 and 2, of IAE NMSB V2500-ENG-72-0713, or 
Appendix A, Tables 1 and 2, of IAE NMSB V2500-E5-72-0015, dated 
December 15, 2020 (IAE NMSB V2500-E5-72-0015) that has passed the 
USI as specified in the Accomplishment Instructions, paragraph 8., 
of IAE NMSB V2500-ENG-72-0713 or NMSB V2500-E5-72-0015, or
    (2) An HPT 1st-stage disk or HPT 2nd-stage disk that is not 
listed in Appendix A, Tables 1 and 2, of IAE NMSB V2500-ENG-72-0713 
or Appendix A, Tables 1 and 2, of IAE NMSB V2500-E5-72-0015.

(i) 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.

(j) Related Information

    For more information about this AD, contact Alberto Hernandez, 
Aviation Safety Engineer, ECO Branch, FAA, 1200 District Avenue, 
Burlington, MA 01803; phone: (781) 238-7329; fax: (781) 238-7999; 
email: [email protected].

(k) 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.
    (3) The following service information was approved for IBR on 
July 13, 2021 (86 FR 30380, June 8, 2021).
    (i) IAE Non-Modification Service Bulletin (NMSB) V2500-ENG-72-
0713, Revision 1, dated January 26, 2021.
    (ii) IAE NMSB V2500-E5-72-0015, dated December 15, 2020.
    (4) For International Aero Engines service information 
identified in this AD, contact International Aero Engines AG, 400 
Main Street, East Hartford, CT 06118; phone: (860) 565-2391; email: 
[email protected]; website: https://fleetcare.pw.utc.com.
    (5) You may view this service information at FAA, Airworthiness 
Products Section,

[[Page 35221]]

Operational Safety Branch, 1200 District Avenue, Burlington, MA 
01803. For information on the availability of this material at the 
FAA, call (781) 238-7759.
    (6) 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 June 18, 2021.
Lance T. Gant,
Director, Compliance & Airworthiness Division, Aircraft Certification 
Service.
[FR Doc. 2021-14268 Filed 6-30-21; 11:15 am]
BILLING CODE 4910-13-P
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