Airworthiness Directives; Rolls-Royce Deutschland Ltd & Co KG (Type Certificate Previously Held by Rolls-Royce plc) Turbofan Engines, 71135-71138 [2021-27033]

Download as PDF Federal Register / Vol. 86, No. 238 / Wednesday, December 15, 2021 / Rules and Regulations Costs of Compliance The FAA estimates that this AD affects 57 helicopters of U.S. Registry. Labor rates are estimated at $85 per work-hour. Based on these numbers, the FAA estimates that operators may incur the following costs in order to comply with this AD. Cleaning and inspecting the T/R hub with a magnifying glass takes about 1 work-hour for an estimated cost of $85 per helicopter and $4,845 for the U.S. fleet, per inspection cycle. Cleaning and dye penetrant inspecting the T/R hub takes about 2 work-hours for an estimated cost of $170 per helicopter and $9,690 for the U.S. fleet, per inspection cycle. If required, replacing a T/R hub takes about 0.5 work-hour and parts cost about $500 for an estimated cost of $543 per replacement. 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. khammond on DSKJM1Z7X2PROD with RULES 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, (2) Will not affect intrastate aviation in Alaska, and (3) Will not have a significant economic impact, positive or negative, on a substantial number of small entities under the criteria of the Regulatory Flexibility Act. VerDate Sep<11>2014 16:21 Dec 14, 2021 Jkt 256001 71135 List of Subjects in 14 CFR Part 39 Air transportation, Aircraft, Aviation safety, Incorporation by reference, Safety. (2) Clean and dye penetrant inspect the radius at the shoulder of each T/R hub spindle for a crack and pitting. If there is a crack or pitting, before further flight, remove the T/R hub from service. The Amendment Accordingly, under the authority delegated to me by the Administrator, the FAA amends 14 CFR part 39 as follows: (h) Alternative Methods of Compliance (AMOCs) (1) The Manager, Fort Worth ACO Branch, FAA, has the authority to approve AMOCs for this AD, if requested using the procedures found in 14 CFR 39.19. In accordance with 14 CFR 39.19, send your request to your principal inspector or 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 paragraph (i) of this AD. (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. 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: ■ 2021–26–09 Brantly Helicopters Industries U.S.A. Co., Ltd., and Brantly International, Inc.: Amendment 39– 21868; Docket No. FAA–2021–0610; Project Identifier AD–2021–00126–R. (a) Effective Date This airworthiness directive (AD) is effective January 19, 2022. (b) Affected ADs None. (c) Applicability This AD applies to Brantly Helicopters Industries U.S.A. Co., Ltd., Model 305 helicopters and Brantly International, Inc., Model B–2, B–2A, and B–2B helicopters, certificated in any category, with a tail rotor (T/R) hub part number 161–1 or 2951, installed. (d) Subject Joint Aircraft System Component (JASC) Code 6420, Tail Rotor Head. (e) Unsafe Condition This AD was prompted by a report of a crack in the T/R hub. The FAA is issuing this AD to address cracking of the T/R hub. The unsafe condition, if not addressed, could result in loss of T/R control and subsequent loss of control of the helicopter. (f) Compliance Comply with this AD within the compliance times specified, unless already done. (g) Required Actions Within 100 hours time-in-service (TIS) or at the next annual inspection after the effective date of this AD, whichever occurs first, and thereafter at intervals not to exceed 100 hours TIS and at each annual inspection: (1) Clean, and using a 10X or higher power magnifying glass, inspect the areas where each T/R blade attaching arm extends from the T/R hub for a crack, corrosion, and pitting. If there is a crack, corrosion, or pitting, before further flight, remove the T/R hub from service. PO 00000 Frm 00007 Fmt 4700 Sfmt 4700 (i) Related Information For more information about this AD, contact Marc Belhumeur, Senior Project Engineer, Certification Section, Fort Worth ACO Branch, Compliance & Airworthiness Division, FAA, 10101 Hillwood Pkwy., Fort Worth, TX 76177; telephone (817) 222–5177; email 9-ASW-FWACO@faa.gov. (j) Material Incorporated by Reference None. Issued on December 9, 2021. Lance T. Gant, Director, Compliance & Airworthiness Division, Aircraft Certification Service. [FR Doc. 2021–27052 Filed 12–14–21; 8:45 am] BILLING CODE 4910–13–P DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION Federal Aviation Administration 14 CFR Part 39 [Docket No. FAA–2021–0655; Project Identifier MCAI–2020–01497–E; Amendment 39–21846; AD 2021–25–03] RIN 2120–AA64 Airworthiness Directives; Rolls-Royce Deutschland Ltd & Co KG (Type Certificate Previously Held by RollsRoyce plc) Turbofan Engines Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), DOT. ACTION: Final rule. AGENCY: The FAA is adopting a new airworthiness directive (AD) for all Rolls-Royce Deutschland Ltd. & Co KG (RRD) Trent 7000–72 and Trent 7000– 72C model turbofan engines. This AD was prompted by the manufacturer revising the engine Time Limits Manual (TLM) life limits of certain critical rotating parts and updating certain SUMMARY: E:\FR\FM\15DER1.SGM 15DER1 71136 Federal Register / Vol. 86, No. 238 / Wednesday, December 15, 2021 / Rules and Regulations maintenance tasks. This AD requires the operator to revise the airworthiness limitation section (ALS) of their existing approved continuous airworthiness maintenance program (CAMP) by incorporating the revised tasks of the applicable TLM for each affected model turbofan engine, as specified in a European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) AD, which is incorporated by reference. The FAA is issuing this AD to address the unsafe condition on these products. DATES: This AD is effective January 19, 2022. The Director of the Federal Register approved the incorporation by reference of a certain publication listed in this AD as of January 19, 2022. ADDRESSES: For material incorporated by reference in this AD, contact EASA, Konrad-Adenauer-Ufer 3, 50668 Cologne, Germany; phone: +49 221 8999 000; email: ADs@easa.europa.eu; website: www.easa.europa.eu. You may find this material on the EASA website at https://ad.easa.europa.eu. 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 (817) 222– 5110. It is also available at https:// www.regulations.gov by searching for and locating Docket No. FAA–2021– 0655. For material identified in this AD that is not incorporated by reference, contact Rolls-Royce plc, Corporate Communications, P.O. Box 31, Derby, DE24 8BJ, United Kingdom; phone: +44 (0)1332 242424 fax: +44 (0)1332 249936; website: https://www.rolls-royce.com/ contact-us.aspx. khammond on DSKJM1Z7X2PROD with RULES Examining the AD Docket You may examine the AD docket at https://www.regulations.gov by searching for and locating Docket No. FAA–2021–0655; 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, the EASA AD, any comments received, and other information. The address for Docket Operations is U.S. Department of Transportation, M–30, West Building Ground Floor, Room W12 140, 1200 New Jersey Avenue SE, Washington, DC 20590. FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Kevin M. Clark, Aviation Safety Engineer, ECO Branch, FAA, 1200 District Avenue, Burlington, MA 01803; phone: (781) 238–7088; fax: (781) 238– 7199; email: kevin.m.clark@faa.gov. SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: VerDate Sep<11>2014 16:21 Dec 14, 2021 Jkt 256001 Background EASA, which is the Technical Agent for the Member States of the European Union, has issued EASA AD 2020–0244, dated November 5, 2020 (EASA AD 2020–0244) (also referred to as the Mandatory Continuing Airworthiness Information, or the MCAI), to correct an unsafe condition for all RRD Trent 7000–72 and Trent 7000–72C model turbofan engines. The FAA issued a notice of proposed rulemaking (NPRM) to amend 14 CFR part 39 by adding an AD that would apply to all RRD Trent 7000–72 and Trent 7000–72C model turbofan engines. The NPRM published in the Federal Register on August 12, 2021 (86 FR 44316). The NPRM was prompted by the manufacturer revising the engine TLM life limits of certain critical rotating parts and updating certain maintenance tasks. In the NPRM, the FAA proposed to require accomplishing the actions specified in EASA AD 2020– 0244, described previously, as incorporated by reference, except for any differences identified as exceptions in the regulatory text of this proposed AD and except as discussed under ‘‘Differences Between this Proposed AD and the EASA AD.’’ The FAA is issuing this AD to address the unsafe condition on these products. See the MCAI for additional background information. Discussion of Final Airworthiness Directive Comments The FAA received comments from three commenters. The commenters were Air Line Pilots Association, International, The Boeing Company, and Delta Air Lines, Inc. (DAL). The following presents the comments received on the NPRM and the FAA’s response to each comment. Request To Add Exception to the Definition of AMP DAL requested that paragraph (h), Exceptions to EASA AD 2020–0244, of the proposed rule, be updated to provide an exception to the definition of the AMP for airplanes operated under FAA regulations. DAL noted that the EASA AD’s definition of an AMP is applicable to an airplane operated under European Union regulations. The FAA agrees and has updated paragraph (h)(1) of this AD. Request To Add Exception for HighPressure Turbine (HPT) Blade Inspection DAL requested that paragraph (h), Exceptions to EASA AD 2020–0244, of this AD, be updated to provide an PO 00000 Frm 00008 Fmt 4700 Sfmt 4700 exception for the HPT blade visual inspections in the TLM to make the FAA AD consistent with the most recent publication of RR Trent 7000 TLM–T– T7000–1RR (the TLM) and with EASA AD 2021–0169, dated July 19, 2021 (EASA AD 2021–1069). DAL reasoned that EASA AD 2021–0169 incorporates a life limit of 1,000 flight cycles since new on the HPT blade and explicitly cancels the inspection intervals defined in the TLM. The FAA disagrees with adding this exception to paragraph (h) of this AD. The unsafe condition and corrective actions in EASA AD 2021–0169 are beyond the scope of this AD. The FAA may consider future rulemaking in response to EASA AD 2021–0169. Support for the AD Air Line Pilots Association, International, and The Boeing Company supported the AD without change. Conclusion The FAA reviewed the relevant data, considered any comments received, and determined that air safety requires adopting this AD as proposed. Accordingly, the FAA is issuing this AD to address the unsafe condition on these products. Except for minor editorial changes, and any other changes described previously, this AD is adopted as proposed in the NPRM. None of the changes will increase the economic burden on any operator. Related Service Information Under 1 CFR Part 51 The FAA reviewed EASA AD 2020– 0244. EASA AD 2020–0244 specifies revising the approved AMP by incorporating the limitations, tasks, and associated thresholds and intervals described in the TLM. This service information is reasonably available because the interested parties have access to it through their normal course of business or by the means identified in ADDRESSES. Other Related Service Information The FAA reviewed Chapter 05–10 of RR Trent 7000 TLM T–T7000–1RR, dated July 10, 2020. RR Trent 7000 TLM T–T7000–1RR, Chapter 05–10, identifies the reduced life limits of certain critical rotating parts. The FAA also reviewed Chapter 05– 20 of RR Trent 7000 TLM T–T7000– 1RR, dated July 10, 2020. RR Trent 7000 TLM T–T7000–1RR, Chapter 05–20, identifies the critical rotating part inspection thresholds and intervals. E:\FR\FM\15DER1.SGM 15DER1 Federal Register / Vol. 86, No. 238 / Wednesday, December 15, 2021 / Rules and Regulations Costs of Compliance The FAA estimates that this AD affects 10 engines installed on airplanes of U.S. registry. 71137 The FAA estimates the following costs to comply with this AD: ESTIMATED COSTS Action Labor cost Revise the ALS ............................................... 1 work-hour × $85 per hour = $85 .................. Authority for This Rulemaking Title 49 of the United States Code specifies the FAA’s authority to issue rules on aviation safety. Subtitle I, section 106, describes the authority of the FAA Administrator. Subtitle VII: Aviation Programs, describes in more detail the scope of the Agency’s authority. The FAA is issuing this rulemaking under the authority described in Subtitle VII, Part A, Subpart III, Section 44701: General requirements. Under that section, Congress charges the FAA with promoting safe flight of civil aircraft in air commerce by prescribing regulations for practices, methods, and procedures the Administrator finds necessary for safety in air commerce. This regulation is within the scope of that authority because it addresses an unsafe condition that is likely to exist or develop on products identified in this rulemaking action. Regulatory Findings khammond on DSKJM1Z7X2PROD with RULES 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 this AD: (1) Is not a ‘‘significant regulatory action’’ under Executive Order 12866, (2) Will not affect intrastate aviation in Alaska, and (3) Will not have a significant economic impact, positive or negative, on a substantial number of small entities under the criteria of the Regulatory Flexibility Act. List of Subjects in 14 CFR Part 39 Air transportation, Aircraft, Aviation safety, Incorporation by reference, Safety. The Amendment Accordingly, under the authority delegated to me by the Administrator, VerDate Sep<11>2014 16:21 Dec 14, 2021 Jkt 256001 the FAA amends 14 CFR part 39 as follows: PART 39—AIRWORTHINESS DIRECTIVES 1. The authority citation for part 39 continues to read as follows: ■ Authority: 49 U.S.C. 106(g), 40113, 44701. § 39.13 [Amended] 2. The FAA amends § 39.13 by adding the following new airworthiness directive: ■ 2021–25–03 Rolls-Royce Deutschland Ltd & Co KG (Type Certificate previously held by Rolls-Royce plc): Amendment 39– 21846; Docket No. FAA–2021–0655; Project Identifier MCAI–2020–01497–E. (a) Effective Date This airworthiness directive (AD) is effective January 19, 2022. (b) Affected ADs None. (c) Applicability This AD applies to Rolls-Royce Deutschland Ltd. & Co KG (RRD) (Type Certificate previously held by Rolls-Royce plc) Trent 7000–72 and Trent 7000–72C model turbofan engines. (d) Subject Joint Aircraft Service Component (JASC) Code 7200, Engine (Turbine/Turboprop). (e) Unsafe Condition This AD was prompted by the manufacturer revising the engine Time Limits Manual (TLM) life limits of certain critical rotating parts and updating certain maintenance tasks. The FAA is issuing this AD prevent the failure of critical rotating parts. The unsafe condition, if not addressed, could result in failure of one or more engines, loss of thrust control, and loss of the airplane. (f) Compliance Comply with this AD within the compliance times specified, unless already done. (g) Required Actions Except as specified in paragraph (h) of this AD: Perform all required actions within the compliance times specified in, and in accordance with, European Union Aviation PO 00000 Frm 00009 Fmt 4700 Sfmt 4700 Cost per product Parts cost $0 $85 Cost on U.S. operators $850 Safety Agency AD 2020–0244, dated November 5, 2020 (EASA AD 2020–0244). (h) Exceptions to EASA AD 2020–0244 (1) EASA AD 2020–0244 defines the AMP as: ‘‘The approved Aircraft Maintenance Programme (AMP) on the basis of which the operator or the owner ensures the continuing airworthiness of each operated engine. For engines installed on aeroplanes operated under EU regulations, compliance with the approved AMP is required by Commission Regulation (EU) 1321/2014, Part M.A.301, paragraph 3.’’ In lieu of that definition, this AD defines the AMP as the existing approved Continuous Airworthiness Maintenance Program (CAMP) that is the basis for which the operator or the owner ensures the continuous airworthiness of each operated airplane. (2) The requirements specified in paragraphs (1) and (2) of EASA AD 2020– 0244 are not required by this AD. (3) Where EASA AD 2020–0244 requires compliance from its effective date, this AD requires using the effective date of this AD. (4) Paragraph (3) of EASA AD 2020–0244 specifies revising the approved AMP within 12 months after its effective date, but this AD requires revising the existing approved CAMP within 90 days after the effective date of this AD. (5) This AD does not mandate compliance with the ‘‘Remarks’’ section of EASA AD 2020–0244. (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 ECO Branch, send it to the attention of the person identified in paragraph (j)(1) of this AD. Information may be emailed 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. (j) Related Information (1) For more information about this AD, contact Kevin M. Clark, Aviation Safety Engineer, ECO Branch, FAA, 1200 District Avenue, Burlington, MA 01803; phone: (781) 238–7088; fax: (781) 238–7199; email: kevin.m.clark@faa.gov. E:\FR\FM\15DER1.SGM 15DER1 71138 Federal Register / Vol. 86, No. 238 / Wednesday, December 15, 2021 / Rules and Regulations (2) For material identified in this AD that is not incorporated by reference, contact Rolls-Royce plc, Corporate Communications, P.O. Box 31, Derby, DE24 8BJ, United Kingdom; phone: +44 (0)1332 242424 fax: +44 (0)1332 249936; website: https:// www.rolls-royce.com/contact-us.aspx. (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. (i) European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) AD 2020–0244, dated November 5, 2020. (ii) [Reserved] (3) For EASA AD 2020–0244, contact EASA, Konrad-Adenauer-Ufer 3, 50668 Cologne, Germany; phone: +49 221 8999 000; email: ADs@easa.europa.eu; website: www.easa.europa.eu. You may find this EASA AD on the EASA website at https:// ad.easa.europa.eu. (4) You may view this service information at 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 (817) 222–5110. (5) You may view this material that is incorporated by reference at the National Archives and Records Administration (NARA). For information on the availability of this material at NARA, email fr.inspection@nara.gov, or go to https:// www.archives.gov/federal-register/cfr/ibrlocations.html. Issued on November 24, 2021. Lance T. Gant, Director, Compliance & Airworthiness Division, Aircraft Certification Service. [FR Doc. 2021–27033 Filed 12–14–21; 8:45 am] BILLING CODE 4910–13–P DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION Federal Aviation Administration 14 CFR Part 97 [Docket No. 31402; Amdt. No. 3985] Standard Instrument Approach Procedures, and Takeoff Minimums and Obstacle Departure Procedures; Miscellaneous Amendments Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), DOT. ACTION: Final rule. khammond on DSKJM1Z7X2PROD with RULES AGENCY: This rule establishes, amends, suspends, or removes Standard Instrument Approach Procedures (SIAPS) and associated Takeoff Minimums and Obstacle Departure procedures (ODPs) for operations at certain airports. These regulatory SUMMARY: VerDate Sep<11>2014 16:21 Dec 14, 2021 Jkt 256001 actions are needed because of the adoption of new or revised criteria, or because of changes occurring in the National Airspace System, such as the commissioning of new navigational facilities, adding new obstacles, or changing air traffic requirements. These changes are designed to provide safe and efficient use of the navigable airspace and to promote safe flight operations under instrument flight rules at the affected airports. DATES: This rule is effective December 15, 2021. The compliance date for each SIAP, associated Takeoff Minimums, and ODP is specified in the amendatory provisions. The incorporation by reference of certain publications listed in the regulations is approved by the Director of the Federal Register as of December 15, 2021. ADDRESSES: Availability of matters incorporated by reference in the amendment is as follows: For Examination 1. U.S. Department of Transportation, Docket Ops–M30. 1200 New Jersey Avenue SE, West Bldg., Ground Floor, Washington, DC 20590–0001. 2. The FAA Air Traffic Organization Service Area in which the affected airport is located; 3. The office of Aeronautical Information Services, 6500 South MacArthur Blvd., Oklahoma City, OK 73169 or, 4. The National Archives and Records Administration (NARA). For information on the availability of this material at NARA, email fr.inspection@ nara.gov or go to: https:// www.archives.gov/federal-register/cfr/ ibr-locations.html. Availability All SIAPs and Takeoff Minimums and ODPs are available online free of charge. Visit the National Flight Data Center at nfdc.faa.gov to register. Additionally, individual SIAP and Takeoff Minimums and ODP copies may be obtained from the FAA Air Traffic Organization Service Area in which the affected airport is located. FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Thomas J. Nichols, Flight Procedures and Airspace Group, Flight Technologies and Procedures Division, Flight Standards Service, Federal Aviation Administration. Mailing Address: FAA Mike Monroney Aeronautical Center, Flight Procedures and Airspace Group, 6500 South MacArthur Blvd., Registry Bldg. 29, Room 104, Oklahoma City, OK 73169. Telephone (405) 954–4164. PO 00000 Frm 00010 Fmt 4700 Sfmt 4700 This rule amends 14 CFR part 97 by establishing, amending, suspending, or removes SIAPS, Takeoff Minimums and/or ODPS. The complete regulatory description of each SIAP and its associated Takeoff Minimums or ODP for an identified airport is listed on FAA form documents which are incorporated by reference in this amendment under 5 U.S.C. 552(a), 1 CFR part 51, and 14 CFR part 97.20. The applicable FAA Forms 8260–3, 8260–4, 8260–5, 8260– 15A, 8260–15B, when required by an entry on 8260–15A, and 8260–15C. The large number of SIAPs, Takeoff Minimums and ODPs, their complex nature, and the need for a special format make publication in the Federal Register expensive and impractical. Further, airmen do not use the regulatory text of the SIAPs, Takeoff Minimums or ODPs, but instead refer to their graphic depiction on charts printed by publishers or aeronautical materials. Thus, the advantages of incorporation by reference are realized and publication of the complete description of each SIAP, Takeoff Minimums and ODP listed on FAA form documents is unnecessary. This amendment provides the affected CFR sections and specifies the typed of SIAPS, Takeoff Minimums and ODPs with their applicable effective dates. This amendment also identifies the airport and its location, the procedure, and the amendment number. SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: Availability and Summary of Material Incorporated by Reference The material incorporated by reference is publicly available as listed in the ADDRESSES section. The material incorporated by reference describes SIAPS, Takeoff Minimums and/or ODPs as identified in the amendatory language for part 97 of this final rule. The Rule This amendment to 14 CFR part 97 is effective upon publication of each separate SIAP, Takeoff Minimums and ODP as amended in the transmittal. Some SIAP and Takeoff Minimums and textual ODP amendments may have been issued previously by the FAA in a Flight Data Center (FDC) Notice to Airmen (NOTAM) as an emergency action of immediate flights safety relating directly to published aeronautical charts. The circumstances that created the need for some SIAP and Takeoff Minimums and ODP amendments may require making them effective in less than 30 days. For the remaining SIAPs and Takeoff Minimums and ODPs, an E:\FR\FM\15DER1.SGM 15DER1

Agencies

[Federal Register Volume 86, Number 238 (Wednesday, December 15, 2021)]
[Rules and Regulations]
[Pages 71135-71138]
From the Federal Register Online via the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]
[FR Doc No: 2021-27033]


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DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION

Federal Aviation Administration

14 CFR Part 39

[Docket No. FAA-2021-0655; Project Identifier MCAI-2020-01497-E; 
Amendment 39-21846; AD 2021-25-03]
RIN 2120-AA64


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

AGENCY: Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), DOT.

ACTION: Final rule.

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

SUMMARY: The FAA is adopting a new airworthiness directive (AD) for all 
Rolls-Royce Deutschland Ltd. & Co KG (RRD) Trent 7000-72 and Trent 
7000-72C model turbofan engines. This AD was prompted by the 
manufacturer revising the engine Time Limits Manual (TLM) life limits 
of certain critical rotating parts and updating certain

[[Page 71136]]

maintenance tasks. This AD requires the operator to revise the 
airworthiness limitation section (ALS) of their existing approved 
continuous airworthiness maintenance program (CAMP) by incorporating 
the revised tasks of the applicable TLM for each affected model 
turbofan engine, as specified in a European Union Aviation Safety 
Agency (EASA) AD, which is incorporated by reference. The FAA is 
issuing this AD to address the unsafe condition on these products.

DATES: This AD is effective January 19, 2022.
    The Director of the Federal Register approved the incorporation by 
reference of a certain publication listed in this AD as of January 19, 
2022.

ADDRESSES: For material incorporated by reference in this AD, contact 
EASA, Konrad-Adenauer-Ufer 3, 50668 Cologne, Germany; phone: +49 221 
8999 000; email: [email protected]; website: www.easa.europa.eu. You 
may find this material on the EASA website at https://ad.easa.europa.eu. 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 (817) 222-5110. It is 
also available at https://www.regulations.gov by searching for and 
locating Docket No. FAA-2021-0655. For material identified in this AD 
that is not incorporated by reference, contact Rolls-Royce plc, 
Corporate Communications, P.O. Box 31, Derby, DE24 8BJ, United Kingdom; 
phone: +44 (0)1332 242424 fax: +44 (0)1332 249936; website: https://www.rolls-royce.com/contact-us.aspx.

Examining the AD Docket

    You may examine the AD docket at https://www.regulations.gov by 
searching for and locating Docket No. FAA-2021-0655; 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, the 
EASA AD, any comments received, and other information. The address for 
Docket Operations is U.S. Department of Transportation, M-30, West 
Building Ground Floor, Room W12 140, 1200 New Jersey Avenue SE, 
Washington, DC 20590.

FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Kevin M. Clark, Aviation Safety 
Engineer, ECO Branch, FAA, 1200 District Avenue, Burlington, MA 01803; 
phone: (781) 238-7088; fax: (781) 238-7199; email: 
[email protected].

SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION:

Background

    EASA, which is the Technical Agent for the Member States of the 
European Union, has issued EASA AD 2020-0244, dated November 5, 2020 
(EASA AD 2020-0244) (also referred to as the Mandatory Continuing 
Airworthiness Information, or the MCAI), to correct an unsafe condition 
for all RRD Trent 7000-72 and Trent 7000-72C model turbofan engines.
    The FAA issued a notice of proposed rulemaking (NPRM) to amend 14 
CFR part 39 by adding an AD that would apply to all RRD Trent 7000-72 
and Trent 7000-72C model turbofan engines. The NPRM published in the 
Federal Register on August 12, 2021 (86 FR 44316). The NPRM was 
prompted by the manufacturer revising the engine TLM life limits of 
certain critical rotating parts and updating certain maintenance tasks. 
In the NPRM, the FAA proposed to require accomplishing the actions 
specified in EASA AD 2020-0244, described previously, as incorporated 
by reference, except for any differences identified as exceptions in 
the regulatory text of this proposed AD and except as discussed under 
``Differences Between this Proposed AD and the EASA AD.'' The FAA is 
issuing this AD to address the unsafe condition on these products. See 
the MCAI for additional background information.

Discussion of Final Airworthiness Directive

Comments

    The FAA received comments from three commenters. The commenters 
were Air Line Pilots Association, International, The Boeing Company, 
and Delta Air Lines, Inc. (DAL). The following presents the comments 
received on the NPRM and the FAA's response to each comment.

Request To Add Exception to the Definition of AMP

    DAL requested that paragraph (h), Exceptions to EASA AD 2020-0244, 
of the proposed rule, be updated to provide an exception to the 
definition of the AMP for airplanes operated under FAA regulations. DAL 
noted that the EASA AD's definition of an AMP is applicable to an 
airplane operated under European Union regulations.
    The FAA agrees and has updated paragraph (h)(1) of this AD.

Request To Add Exception for High-Pressure Turbine (HPT) Blade 
Inspection

    DAL requested that paragraph (h), Exceptions to EASA AD 2020-0244, 
of this AD, be updated to provide an exception for the HPT blade visual 
inspections in the TLM to make the FAA AD consistent with the most 
recent publication of RR Trent 7000 TLM-T-T7000-1RR (the TLM) and with 
EASA AD 2021-0169, dated July 19, 2021 (EASA AD 2021-1069). DAL 
reasoned that EASA AD 2021-0169 incorporates a life limit of 1,000 
flight cycles since new on the HPT blade and explicitly cancels the 
inspection intervals defined in the TLM.
    The FAA disagrees with adding this exception to paragraph (h) of 
this AD. The unsafe condition and corrective actions in EASA AD 2021-
0169 are beyond the scope of this AD. The FAA may consider future 
rulemaking in response to EASA AD 2021-0169.

Support for the AD

    Air Line Pilots Association, International, and The Boeing Company 
supported the AD without change.

Conclusion

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

Related Service Information Under 1 CFR Part 51

    The FAA reviewed EASA AD 2020-0244. EASA AD 2020-0244 specifies 
revising the approved AMP by incorporating the limitations, tasks, and 
associated thresholds and intervals described in the TLM. This service 
information is reasonably available because the interested parties have 
access to it through their normal course of business or by the means 
identified in ADDRESSES.

Other Related Service Information

    The FAA reviewed Chapter 05-10 of RR Trent 7000 TLM T-T7000-1RR, 
dated July 10, 2020. RR Trent 7000 TLM T-T7000-1RR, Chapter 05-10, 
identifies the reduced life limits of certain critical rotating parts.
    The FAA also reviewed Chapter 05-20 of RR Trent 7000 TLM T-T7000-
1RR, dated July 10, 2020. RR Trent 7000 TLM T-T7000-1RR, Chapter 05-20, 
identifies the critical rotating part inspection thresholds and 
intervals.

[[Page 71137]]

Costs of Compliance

    The FAA estimates that this AD affects 10 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
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Revise the ALS........................  1 work-hour x $85 per                 $0             $85            $850
                                         hour = $85.
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Authority for This Rulemaking

    Title 49 of the United States Code specifies the FAA's authority to 
issue rules on aviation safety. Subtitle I, section 106, describes the 
authority of the FAA Administrator. Subtitle VII: Aviation Programs, 
describes in more detail the scope of the Agency's authority.
    The FAA is issuing this rulemaking under the authority described in 
Subtitle VII, Part A, Subpart III, Section 44701: General requirements. 
Under that section, Congress charges the FAA with promoting safe flight 
of civil aircraft in air commerce by prescribing regulations for 
practices, methods, and procedures the Administrator finds necessary 
for safety in air commerce. This regulation is within the scope of that 
authority because it addresses an unsafe condition that is likely to 
exist or develop on products identified in this rulemaking action.

Regulatory Findings

    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 this AD:
    (1) Is not a ``significant regulatory action'' under Executive 
Order 12866,
    (2) Will not affect intrastate aviation in Alaska, and
    (3) Will not have a significant economic impact, positive or 
negative, on a substantial number of small entities under the criteria 
of the Regulatory Flexibility Act.

List of Subjects in 14 CFR Part 39

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

The Amendment

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

PART 39--AIRWORTHINESS DIRECTIVES

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

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


Sec.  39.13  [Amended]

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

2021-25-03 Rolls-Royce Deutschland Ltd & Co KG (Type Certificate 
previously held by Rolls-Royce plc): Amendment 39-21846; Docket No. 
FAA-2021-0655; Project Identifier MCAI-2020-01497-E.

(a) Effective Date

    This airworthiness directive (AD) is effective January 19, 2022.

(b) Affected ADs

    None.

(c) Applicability

    This AD applies to Rolls-Royce Deutschland Ltd. & Co KG (RRD) 
(Type Certificate previously held by Rolls-Royce plc) Trent 7000-72 
and Trent 7000-72C model turbofan engines.

(d) Subject

    Joint Aircraft Service Component (JASC) Code 7200, Engine 
(Turbine/Turboprop).

(e) Unsafe Condition

    This AD was prompted by the manufacturer revising the engine 
Time Limits Manual (TLM) life limits of certain critical rotating 
parts and updating certain maintenance tasks. The FAA is issuing 
this AD prevent the failure of critical rotating parts. The unsafe 
condition, if not addressed, could result in failure of one or more 
engines, loss of thrust control, and loss of the airplane.

(f) Compliance

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

(g) Required Actions

    Except as specified in paragraph (h) of this AD: Perform all 
required actions within the compliance times specified in, and in 
accordance with, European Union Aviation Safety Agency AD 2020-0244, 
dated November 5, 2020 (EASA AD 2020-0244).

(h) Exceptions to EASA AD 2020-0244

    (1) EASA AD 2020-0244 defines the AMP as: ``The approved 
Aircraft Maintenance Programme (AMP) on the basis of which the 
operator or the owner ensures the continuing airworthiness of each 
operated engine. For engines installed on aeroplanes operated under 
EU regulations, compliance with the approved AMP is required by 
Commission Regulation (EU) 1321/2014, Part M.A.301, paragraph 3.'' 
In lieu of that definition, this AD defines the AMP as the existing 
approved Continuous Airworthiness Maintenance Program (CAMP) that is 
the basis for which the operator or the owner ensures the continuous 
airworthiness of each operated airplane.
    (2) The requirements specified in paragraphs (1) and (2) of EASA 
AD 2020-0244 are not required by this AD.
    (3) Where EASA AD 2020-0244 requires compliance from its 
effective date, this AD requires using the effective date of this 
AD.
    (4) Paragraph (3) of EASA AD 2020-0244 specifies revising the 
approved AMP within 12 months after its effective date, but this AD 
requires revising the existing approved CAMP within 90 days after 
the effective date of this AD.
    (5) This AD does not mandate compliance with the ``Remarks'' 
section of EASA AD 2020-0244.

(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 
ECO Branch, send it to the attention of the person identified in 
paragraph (j)(1) of this AD. Information may be emailed 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

    (1) For more information about this AD, contact Kevin M. Clark, 
Aviation Safety Engineer, ECO Branch, FAA, 1200 District Avenue, 
Burlington, MA 01803; phone: (781) 238-7088; fax: (781) 238-7199; 
email: [email protected].

[[Page 71138]]

    (2) For material identified in this AD that is not incorporated 
by reference, contact Rolls-Royce plc, Corporate Communications, 
P.O. Box 31, Derby, DE24 8BJ, United Kingdom; phone: +44 (0)1332 
242424 fax: +44 (0)1332 249936; website: https://www.rolls-royce.com/contact-us.aspx.

(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.
    (i) European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) AD 2020-0244, 
dated November 5, 2020.
    (ii) [Reserved]
    (3) For EASA AD 2020-0244, contact EASA, Konrad-Adenauer-Ufer 3, 
50668 Cologne, Germany; phone: +49 221 8999 000; email: 
[email protected]; website: www.easa.europa.eu. You may find this 
EASA AD on the EASA website at https://ad.easa.europa.eu.
    (4) You may view this service information at 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 (817) 222-5110.
    (5) You may view this material 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 November 24, 2021.
Lance T. Gant,
Director, Compliance & Airworthiness Division, Aircraft Certification 
Service.
[FR Doc. 2021-27033 Filed 12-14-21; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE 4910-13-P
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