Airworthiness Directives; General Electric Company Turbofan Engines, 44321-44324 [2021-16758]

Download as PDF Federal Register / Vol. 86, No. 153 / Thursday, August 12, 2021 / Proposed Rules the FAA proposes to amend 14 CFR part 39 as follows: (i) No Reporting Requirement PART 39—AIRWORTHINESS DIRECTIVES Although the service information referenced in EASA AD 2021–0112 specifies to submit certain information to the manufacturer, this AD does not include that requirement. 1. The authority citation for part 39 continues to read as follows: ■ Authority: 49 U.S.C. 106(g), 40113, 44701. § 39.13 [Amended] 2. The FAA amends § 39.13 by adding the following new airworthiness directive (AD): ■ Airbus SAS: Docket No. FAA–2021–0657; Project Identifier MCAI–2021–00478–T. (a) Comments Due Date The FAA must receive comments on this airworthiness directive (AD) by September 27, 2021. (b) Affected ADs None. (c) Applicability This AD applies to Airbus SAS Model A350–941 and –1041 airplanes, certificated in any category, as identified in European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) AD 2021–0112, dated April 22, 2021 (EASA AD 2021–0112). (d) Subject Air Transport Association (ATA) of America Code 57, Wings. (e) Reason This AD was prompted by a report indicating that during maintenance, a fuse pin retaining the main landing gear support structure (MLGSS) was found incorrectly engaged in the trunnion block and improperly secured with the associated retaining pin, due to incorrect installation during assembly. The FAA is issuing this AD to address incorrect fuse pin installations, which could lead to premature failure of the retaining pin and subsequent fuse pin migration and disconnection, and could ultimately lead to main landing gear collapse and possible damage to the airplane. (f) Compliance Comply with this AD within the compliance times specified, unless already done. lotter on DSK11XQN23PROD with PROPOSALS1 (g) Requirements Except as specified in paragraph (h) of this AD: Comply with all required actions and compliance times specified in, and in accordance with, EASA AD 2021–0112. (h) Exceptions to EASA AD 2021–0112 (1) Where EASA AD 2021–0112 refers to its effective date, this AD requires using the effective date of this AD. (2) Where paragraph (3) of EASA AD 2021– 0112 specifies contacting Airbus for approved instructions for corrective actions for certain conditions, those corrective actions must be done using a method approved in accordance with the procedures specified in paragraph (j)(2) of this AD. VerDate Sep<11>2014 22:35 Aug 11, 2021 Jkt 253001 (3) The ‘‘Remarks’’ section of EASA AD 2021–0112 does not apply to this AD. (j) Other FAA AD Provisions The following provisions also apply to this AD: (1) Alternative Methods of Compliance (AMOCs): The Manager, Large Aircraft Section, International Validation 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 Large Aircraft Section, International Validation Branch, send it to the attention of the person identified in paragraph (k)(2) of this AD. Information may be emailed to: 9-AVS-AIR730-AMOC@faa.gov. Before using any approved AMOC, notify your appropriate principal inspector, or lacking a principal inspector, the manager of the responsible Flight Standards Office. (2) Contacting the Manufacturer: For any requirement in this AD to obtain instructions from a manufacturer, the instructions must be accomplished using a method approved by the Manager, Large Aircraft Section, International Validation Branch, FAA; or EASA; or Airbus SAS’s EASA Design Organization Approval (DOA). If approved by the DOA, the approval must include the DOA-authorized signature. (3) Required for Compliance (RC): If any service information contains procedures or tests that are identified as RC, those procedures and tests must be done to comply with this AD; any procedures or tests that are not identified as RC are recommended. Those procedures and tests that are not identified as RC may be deviated from using accepted methods in accordance with the operator’s maintenance or inspection program without obtaining approval of an AMOC, provided the procedures and tests identified as RC can be done and the airplane can be put back in an airworthy condition. Any substitutions or changes to procedures or tests identified as RC require approval of an AMOC. (k) Related Information (1) For information about EASA AD 2021– 0112, contact EASA, Konrad-Adenauer-Ufer 3, 50668 Cologne, Germany; telephone +49 221 8999 000; email ADs@easa.europa.eu; internet www.easa.europa.eu. You may find this EASA AD on the EASA website at https://ad.easa.europa.eu. You may view this material 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. This material may be found in the AD docket on the internet at https://www.regulations.gov by searching for and locating Docket No. FAA–2021–0657. PO 00000 Frm 00036 Fmt 4702 Sfmt 4702 44321 (2) For more information about this AD, contact Nick Wilson, Aerospace Engineer, Large Aircraft Section, International Validation Branch, FAA, 2200 South 216th St., Des Moines, WA 98198; telephone and fax 206–231–3230; email nicholas.wilson@ faa.gov. Issued on August 4, 2021. Lance T. Gant, Director, Compliance & Airworthiness Division, Aircraft Certification Service. [FR Doc. 2021–16934 Filed 8–11–21; 8:45 am] BILLING CODE 4910–13–P DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION Federal Aviation Administration 14 CFR Part 39 [Docket No. FAA–2021–0567; Project Identifier AD–2021–00663–E] RIN 2120–AA64 Airworthiness Directives; General Electric Company 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 General Electric Company (GE) GE90 model turbofan engines. This proposed AD was prompted by two separate in-flight shutdowns (IFSDs) resulting from failure of the transfer gearbox (TGB) radial bevel gear (TGB radial gearshaft). This proposed AD would require visual inspection of the TGB radial gearshaft and, depending on the results of the inspection, replacement of the TGB radial gearshaft. The FAA is proposing this AD to address the unsafe condition on these products. SUMMARY: The FAA must receive comments on this proposed AD by September 27, 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. DATES: E:\FR\FM\12AUP1.SGM 12AUP1 44322 Federal Register / Vol. 86, No. 153 / Thursday, August 12, 2021 / Proposed Rules For service information identified in this NPRM, contact General Electric Company, GE Aviation, Room 285, 1 Neumann Way, Cincinnati, OH 45215; phone: (513) 552–3272; email: aviation.fleetsupport@ae.ge.com; website: www.ge.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. Examining the AD Docket You may examine the AD docket at https://www.regulations.gov by searching for and locating Docket No. FAA–2021–0567; 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, any comments received, and other information. The street address for Docket Operations is listed above. FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Stephen Elwin, Aviation Safety Engineer, ECO Branch, FAA, 1200 District Avenue, Burlington, MA 01803; phone: (781) 238–7236; fax: (781) 238– 7199; email: Stephen.L.Elwin@faa.gov. SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: lotter on DSK11XQN23PROD with PROPOSALS1 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–2021–0567; Project Identifier AD– 2021–00663–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 agency 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 NPRM 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 NPRM, 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 NPRM. Submissions containing CBI should be sent to Stephen Elwin, 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 FAA was notified of two separate IFSDs resulting from the failure of the TGB radial gearshaft. After further investigation, the manufacturer determined that rework on the TGB radial gearshaft teeth chamfers during manufacturing may have caused local burrs and micro-cracks which led to high-cycle fatigue failure. GE subsequently issued service information to provide instructions for a one-time visual inspection of the affected radial gearshafts for the presence of burrs or rework on TGB gearshaft teeth chamfers. This condition, if not addressed, could result in failure of one or more engines, loss of thrust control, and damage to the aircraft. FAA’s Determination The FAA is issuing this NPRM after determining that the unsafe condition described previously is likely to exist or develop on other products of the same type design. Related Service Information Under 1 CFR Part 51 The FAA reviewed GE GE90 Service Bulletin (SB) 72–1201 R01, dated April 28, 2021 (GE90 SB 72–1201 R01), and GE GE90–100 SB 72–0857 R01, dated April 28, 2021 (GE90–100 SB 72–0857 R01). GE90 SB 72–1201 R01 specifies procedures for performing a one-time inspection of the TGB radial gearshaft for presence of burrs or rework on teeth chamfers on GE90–76B, GE90–85B, GE90–90B, and GE90–94B model turbofan engines. GE90–100 SB 72–0857 R01 specifies procedures for performing a one-time inspection of the TGB radial gearshaft for presence of burrs or rework on teeth chamfers on GE90–110B1 and GE90–115B 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. Proposed AD Requirements in This NPRM This proposed AD would require visual inspection of the TGB radial gearshaft and, depending on the results of the inspection, replacement of the TGB gearshaft. Differences Between this Proposed AD and the Service Information GE90 SB 72–1201 R01 and GE90–100 SB 72–0857 R01 identify affected TGB radial gearshafts with serial numbers (S/ Ns) listed in paragraph 4., APPENDIX— A, Table 1, and with serial numbers starting with prefix FIAAXXXX, FIA05XXX to FIA09XXX, or FIA0AXXX to FIA0NXXX. This AD applies only to TGB radial gearshafts with S/Ns listed in paragraph 4., APPENDIX—A, Table 1 of GE90 SB 72–1201 R01 and GE90–100 SB 72–0857 R01. The FAA determined that TGB radial gearshafts with S/Ns starting with prefix FIAAXXXX, FIA05XXX to FIA09XXX, or FIA0AXXX to FIA0NXXX are not required to be inspected and removed as part of this AD. However, operators may still elect to inspect the TGB radial gearshaft with these S/Ns at the next scheduled engine shop visit. Costs of Compliance The FAA estimates that this AD, if adopted as proposed, would affect 126 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 Inspect TGB radial gearshaft .......................... 1 work-hour × $85 per hour = $85 ................. VerDate Sep<11>2014 22:35 Aug 11, 2021 Jkt 253001 PO 00000 Frm 00037 Fmt 4702 Sfmt 4702 Cost per product Parts cost E:\FR\FM\12AUP1.SGM $0 12AUP1 $85 Cost on U.S. operators $10,710 Federal Register / Vol. 86, No. 153 / Thursday, August 12, 2021 / Proposed Rules The FAA estimates the following costs to do any necessary replacement that would be required based on the results of the proposed inspection. The agency has no way of determining the 44323 number of aircraft that might need this replacement: ON-CONDITION COSTS Action Labor cost Replace TGB radial gearshaft ...................................... 60 work-hours × $85 per hour = $5,100 ...................... 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 lotter on DSK11XQN23PROD with PROPOSALS1 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, VerDate Sep<11>2014 22:35 Aug 11, 2021 Jkt 253001 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: ■ General Electric Company: Docket No. FAA– 2021–0567; Project Identifier AD–2021– 00663–E. (a) Comments Due Date The FAA must receive comments on this airworthiness directive (AD) by September 27, 2021. (b) Affected ADs None. (c) Applicability This AD applies to General Electric Company (GE) GE90–76B, GE90–85B, GE90– 90B, GE90–94B, GE90–110B1, and GE90– 115B model turbofan engines with a transfer gearbox (TGB) radial bevel gear (TGB radial gearshaft) serial number listed in paragraph 4., APPENDIX—A, Table 1 of GE GE90 Service Bulletin (SB) 72–1201 R01, dated April 28, 2021 (GE90 SB 72–1201 R01) or paragraph 4., APPENDIX—A, Table 1 of GE GE90–100 SB 72–0857 R01, dated April 28, 2021 (GE90–100 SB 72–0857 R01). (d) Subject Joint Aircraft System Component (JASC) Code 7260, Turbine Engine Accessory Drive. (e) Unsafe Condition This AD was prompted by two separate inflight shutdowns resulting from the failure of the TGB radial gearshaft. The FAA is issuing this AD to prevent failure of the TGB radial gearshaft. The unsafe condition, if not addressed, could result in failure of one or more engines, loss of thrust control, and damage to the aircraft. (f) Compliance Comply with this AD within the compliance times specified, unless already done. (g) Required Actions (1) At the next engine shop visit after the effective date of this AD, perform a visual inspection of the affected TGB radial PO 00000 Frm 00038 Fmt 4702 Sfmt 4702 Parts cost $24,520 Cost per product $29,620 gearshaft using the Accomplishment Instructions, paragraph 3.A.(3)(a)1 through 3, of GE90 SB 72–1201 R01 or GE90–100 SB 72–0857 R01, as applicable. (2) If, during the visual inspection required by paragraph (g)(1) of this AD, discrepancies are found that meet the criteria in the Accomplishment Instructions, paragraph 3.A.(4)(a) or 3.A.(4)(b), of GE90 SB 72–1201 R01 or GE90–100 SB 72–0857 R01, before further flight, replace the TGB radial gearshaft with a part eligible for installation. (h) Definitions (1) For the purpose of this AD, an ‘‘engine shop visit’’ is when the compressor discharge pressure seal joint is disassembled. (2) For the purpose of this AD, a ‘‘part eligible for installation’’ is a TGB radial gearshaft that does not have raised material or rework on the teeth chamfers as described in the Accomplishment Instructions, paragraph 3.A.(4)(a) or 3.A.(4)(b), of GE90 SB 72–1201 R01 or GE90–100 SB 72–0857 R01. (i) Credit for Previous Actions You may take credit for the inspection of the affected TGB radial gearshaft required by paragraph (g)(1) of this AD if you performed the inspection before the effective date of this AD using GE GE90 SB 72–1201 R00, dated January 5, 2021, or GE GE90–100 SB 72–0857 R00, dated January 5, 2021. (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 Stephen Elwin, Aviation Safety Engineer, ECO Branch, FAA, 1200 District Avenue, Burlington, MA 01803; phone: (781) 238–7236; fax: (781) 238–7199; email: Stephen.L.Elwin@faa.gov. (2) For service information identified in this AD, contact General Electric Company, GE Aviation, Room 285, 1 Neumann Way, E:\FR\FM\12AUP1.SGM 12AUP1 44324 Federal Register / Vol. 86, No. 153 / Thursday, August 12, 2021 / Proposed Rules Cincinnati, OH 45215; phone: (513) 552– 3272; email: aviation.fleetsupport@ ae.ge.com; website: www.ge.com. 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 July 9, 2021. Gaetano A. Sciortino, Deputy Director for Strategic Initiatives, Compliance & Airworthiness Division, Aircraft Certification Service. [FR Doc. 2021–16758 Filed 8–11–21; 8:45 am] BILLING CODE 4910–13–P DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION Federal Aviation Administration 14 CFR Part 39 Examining the AD Docket [Docket No. FAA–2021–0656; Project Identifier MCAI–2021–00394–T] RIN 2120–AA64 Airworthiness Directives; De Havilland Aircraft of Canada Limited (Type Certificate Previously Held by Bombardier, Inc.) Airplanes Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), DOT. ACTION: Notice of proposed rulemaking (NPRM). AGENCY: The FAA proposes to adopt a new airworthiness directive (AD) for certain De Havilland Aircraft of Canada Limited Model DHC–8–401 and –402 airplanes. This proposed AD was prompted by reports of loss of hydraulic fluid and annunciation of the check fire detect light. This proposed AD would require doing a detailed visual inspection for chafing and proper clearance of the left-hand (LH) and right-hand (RH) main landing gear (MLG) primary zone advanced pneumatic detector (APD) sensing lines, the hydraulic tube assemblies, and the surrounding structure, and doing all applicable corrective actions. 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 September 27, 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– lotter on DSK11XQN23PROD with PROPOSALS1 SUMMARY: VerDate Sep<11>2014 22:35 Aug 11, 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 service information identified in this NPRM, contact De Havilland Aircraft of Canada Limited, Q-Series Technical Help Desk, 123 Garratt Boulevard, Toronto, Ontario M3K 1Y5, Canada; telephone 416–375–4000; fax 416–375–4539; email thd@ dehavilland.com; internet https:// dehavilland.com. You may view this 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. You may examine the AD docket at https://www.regulations.gov by searching for and locating Docket No. FAA–2021–0656; 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, any comments received, and other information. The street address for Docket Operations is listed above. FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Chirayu Gupta, Aerospace Engineer, Mechanical Systems and Administrative Services Section, FAA, New York ACO Branch, 1600 Stewart Avenue, Suite 410, Westbury, NY 11590; telephone 516–228–7300; fax 516–794–5531; email 9-avs-nyaco-cos@faa.gov. 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–2021–0656; Project Identifier MCAI–2021–00394–T’’ 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 the 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 PO 00000 Frm 00039 Fmt 4702 Sfmt 4702 agency 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 NPRM 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 NPRM, 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 NPRM. Submissions containing CBI should be sent to Chirayu Gupta, Aerospace Engineer, Mechanical Systems and Administrative Services Section, FAA, New York ACO Branch, 1600 Stewart Avenue, Suite 410, Westbury, NY 11590; telephone 516– 228–7300; fax 516–794–5531; email 9avs-nyaco-cos@faa.gov. Any commentary that the FAA receives which is not specifically designated as CBI will be placed in the public docket for this rulemaking. Background Transport Canada Civil Aviation (TCCA), which is the aviation authority for Canada, has issued TCCA AD CF– 2021–12, dated April 14, 2021 (also referred to after this as the Mandatory Continuing Airworthiness Information, or the MCAI), to correct an unsafe condition for certain De Havilland Aircraft of Canada Limited Model DHC– 8–401 and –402 airplanes. You may examine the MCAI in the AD docket at https://www.regulations.gov by searching for and locating Docket No. FAA–2021–0656. This proposed AD was prompted by reports of loss of hydraulic fluid and annunciation of the check fire detect light. The FAA is proposing this AD to address insufficient separation between the APD sensing line and surrounding components, which could lead to a hydraulic leak, loss of hydraulic systems, and loss of fire detection in the MLG primary zone should prolonged contact occur. See the MCAI for additional background information. E:\FR\FM\12AUP1.SGM 12AUP1

Agencies

[Federal Register Volume 86, Number 153 (Thursday, August 12, 2021)]
[Proposed Rules]
[Pages 44321-44324]
From the Federal Register Online via the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]
[FR Doc No: 2021-16758]


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DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION

Federal Aviation Administration

14 CFR Part 39

[Docket No. FAA-2021-0567; Project Identifier AD-2021-00663-E]
RIN 2120-AA64


Airworthiness Directives; General Electric Company 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 General Electric Company (GE) GE90 model turbofan engines. 
This proposed AD was prompted by two separate in-flight shutdowns 
(IFSDs) resulting from failure of the transfer gearbox (TGB) radial 
bevel gear (TGB radial gearshaft). This proposed AD would require 
visual inspection of the TGB radial gearshaft and, depending on the 
results of the inspection, replacement of the TGB radial gearshaft. 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 September 
27, 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.

[[Page 44322]]

    For service information identified in this NPRM, contact General 
Electric Company, GE Aviation, Room 285, 1 Neumann Way, Cincinnati, OH 
45215; phone: (513) 552-3272; email: [email protected]; 
website: www.ge.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.

Examining the AD Docket

    You may examine the AD docket at https://www.regulations.gov by 
searching for and locating Docket No. FAA-2021-0567; 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, any comments 
received, and other information. The street address for Docket 
Operations is listed above.

FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Stephen Elwin, Aviation Safety 
Engineer, ECO Branch, FAA, 1200 District Avenue, Burlington, MA 01803; 
phone: (781) 238-7236; 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-2021-0567; Project Identifier 
AD-2021-00663-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 agency 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 NPRM 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 NPRM, 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 NPRM. Submissions containing CBI should be sent to 
Stephen Elwin, 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 FAA was notified of two separate IFSDs resulting from the 
failure of the TGB radial gearshaft. After further investigation, the 
manufacturer determined that rework on the TGB radial gearshaft teeth 
chamfers during manufacturing may have caused local burrs and micro-
cracks which led to high-cycle fatigue failure. GE subsequently issued 
service information to provide instructions for a one-time visual 
inspection of the affected radial gearshafts for the presence of burrs 
or rework on TGB gearshaft teeth chamfers. This condition, if not 
addressed, could result in failure of one or more engines, loss of 
thrust control, and damage to the aircraft.

FAA's Determination

    The FAA is issuing this NPRM after determining that the unsafe 
condition described previously is likely to exist or develop on other 
products of the same type design.

Related Service Information Under 1 CFR Part 51

    The FAA reviewed GE GE90 Service Bulletin (SB) 72-1201 R01, dated 
April 28, 2021 (GE90 SB 72-1201 R01), and GE GE90-100 SB 72-0857 R01, 
dated April 28, 2021 (GE90-100 SB 72-0857 R01). GE90 SB 72-1201 R01 
specifies procedures for performing a one-time inspection of the TGB 
radial gearshaft for presence of burrs or rework on teeth chamfers on 
GE90-76B, GE90-85B, GE90-90B, and GE90-94B model turbofan engines. 
GE90-100 SB 72-0857 R01 specifies procedures for performing a one-time 
inspection of the TGB radial gearshaft for presence of burrs or rework 
on teeth chamfers on GE90-110B1 and GE90-115B 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.

Proposed AD Requirements in This NPRM

    This proposed AD would require visual inspection of the TGB radial 
gearshaft and, depending on the results of the inspection, replacement 
of the TGB gearshaft.
    Differences Between this Proposed AD and the Service Information
    GE90 SB 72-1201 R01 and GE90-100 SB 72-0857 R01 identify affected 
TGB radial gearshafts with serial numbers (S/Ns) listed in paragraph 
4., APPENDIX--A, Table 1, and with serial numbers starting with prefix 
FIAAXXXX, FIA05XXX to FIA09XXX, or FIA0AXXX to FIA0NXXX. This AD 
applies only to TGB radial gearshafts with S/Ns listed in paragraph 4., 
APPENDIX--A, Table 1 of GE90 SB 72-1201 R01 and GE90-100 SB 72-0857 
R01. The FAA determined that TGB radial gearshafts with S/Ns starting 
with prefix FIAAXXXX, FIA05XXX to FIA09XXX, or FIA0AXXX to FIA0NXXX are 
not required to be inspected and removed as part of this AD. However, 
operators may still elect to inspect the TGB radial gearshaft with 
these S/Ns at the next scheduled engine shop visit.

Costs of Compliance

    The FAA estimates that this AD, if adopted as proposed, would 
affect 126 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
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Inspect TGB radial gearshaft..........  1 work-hour x $85 per                 $0             $85         $10,710
                                         hour = $85.
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------


[[Page 44323]]

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

                                               On-Condition Costs
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                                                     Cost per
                    Action                                 Labor cost               Parts cost        product
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Replace TGB radial gearshaft..................  60 work-hours x $85 per hour =           $24,520         $29,620
                                                 $5,100.
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

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:

General Electric Company: Docket No. FAA-2021-0567; Project 
Identifier AD-2021-00663-E.

(a) Comments Due Date

    The FAA must receive comments on this airworthiness directive 
(AD) by September 27, 2021.

(b) Affected ADs

    None.

(c) Applicability

    This AD applies to General Electric Company (GE) GE90-76B, GE90-
85B, GE90-90B, GE90-94B, GE90-110B1, and GE90-115B model turbofan 
engines with a transfer gearbox (TGB) radial bevel gear (TGB radial 
gearshaft) serial number listed in paragraph 4., APPENDIX--A, Table 
1 of GE GE90 Service Bulletin (SB) 72-1201 R01, dated April 28, 2021 
(GE90 SB 72-1201 R01) or paragraph 4., APPENDIX--A, Table 1 of GE 
GE90-100 SB 72-0857 R01, dated April 28, 2021 (GE90-100 SB 72-0857 
R01).

(d) Subject

    Joint Aircraft System Component (JASC) Code 7260, Turbine Engine 
Accessory Drive.

(e) Unsafe Condition

    This AD was prompted by two separate in-flight shutdowns 
resulting from the failure of the TGB radial gearshaft. The FAA is 
issuing this AD to prevent failure of the TGB radial gearshaft. The 
unsafe condition, if not addressed, could result in failure of one 
or more engines, loss of thrust control, and damage to the aircraft.

(f) Compliance

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

(g) Required Actions

    (1) At the next engine shop visit after the effective date of 
this AD, perform a visual inspection of the affected TGB radial 
gearshaft using the Accomplishment Instructions, paragraph 
3.A.(3)(a)1 through 3, of GE90 SB 72-1201 R01 or GE90-100 SB 72-0857 
R01, as applicable.
    (2) If, during the visual inspection required by paragraph 
(g)(1) of this AD, discrepancies are found that meet the criteria in 
the Accomplishment Instructions, paragraph 3.A.(4)(a) or 3.A.(4)(b), 
of GE90 SB 72-1201 R01 or GE90-100 SB 72-0857 R01, before further 
flight, replace the TGB radial gearshaft with a part eligible for 
installation.

(h) Definitions

    (1) For the purpose of this AD, an ``engine shop visit'' is when 
the compressor discharge pressure seal joint is disassembled.
    (2) For the purpose of this AD, a ``part eligible for 
installation'' is a TGB radial gearshaft that does not have raised 
material or rework on the teeth chamfers as described in the 
Accomplishment Instructions, paragraph 3.A.(4)(a) or 3.A.(4)(b), of 
GE90 SB 72-1201 R01 or GE90-100 SB 72-0857 R01.

(i) Credit for Previous Actions

    You may take credit for the inspection of the affected TGB 
radial gearshaft required by paragraph (g)(1) of this AD if you 
performed the inspection before the effective date of this AD using 
GE GE90 SB 72-1201 R00, dated January 5, 2021, or GE GE90-100 SB 72-
0857 R00, dated January 5, 2021.

(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 Stephen Elwin, 
Aviation Safety Engineer, ECO Branch, FAA, 1200 District Avenue, 
Burlington, MA 01803; phone: (781) 238-7236; fax: (781) 238-7199; 
email: [email protected].
    (2) For service information identified in this AD, contact 
General Electric Company, GE Aviation, Room 285, 1 Neumann Way,

[[Page 44324]]

Cincinnati, OH 45215; phone: (513) 552-3272; email: 
[email protected]; website: www.ge.com. 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 July 9, 2021.
Gaetano A. Sciortino,
Deputy Director for Strategic Initiatives, Compliance & Airworthiness 
Division, Aircraft Certification Service.
[FR Doc. 2021-16758 Filed 8-11-21; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE 4910-13-P

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