Airworthiness Directives; The Boeing Company Airplanes, 73452-73456 [2022-26079]
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Federal Register / Vol. 87, No. 229 / Wednesday, November 30, 2022 / Rules and Regulations
(n) Alternative Methods of Compliance
(AMOCs)
(1) The Manager, Seattle ACO Branch,
FAA, has the authority to approve AMOCs
for this AD, if requested using the procedures
found in 14 CFR 39.19. In accordance with
14 CFR 39.19, send your request to your
principal inspector or responsible Flight
Standards Office, as appropriate. If sending
information directly to the manager of the
certification office, send it to the attention of
the person identified in paragraph (o) of this
AD. Information may be emailed to: 9-ANMSeattle-ACO-AMOC-Requests@faa.gov.
(2) Before using any approved AMOC,
notify your appropriate principal inspector,
or lacking a principal inspector, the manager
of the responsible Flight Standards Office.
(3) An AMOC that provides an acceptable
level of safety may be used for any repair,
modification, or alteration required by this
AD if it is approved by The Boeing Company
Organization Designation Authorization
(ODA) that has been authorized by the
Manager, Seattle ACO Branch, FAA, to make
those findings. To be approved, the repair
method, modification deviation, or alteration
deviation must meet the certification basis of
the airplane, and the approval must
specifically refer to this AD.
(4) AMOCs approved for AD 2021–06–03
are approved as AMOCs for the
corresponding provisions of this AD.
availability of this material at the FAA, call
206–231–3195.
(7) 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 fr.inspection@nara.gov, or go to:
www.archives.gov/federal-register/cfr/ibrlocations.html.
(o) Related Information
For more information about this AD,
contact Courtney Tuck, Aerospace Engineer,
Cabin Safety and Environmental Systems
Section, FAA, Seattle ACO Branch, 2200
South 216th St., Des Moines, WA 98198;
phone and fax: 206–231–3986; email:
Courtney.K.Tuck@faa.gov.
AGENCY:
(p) 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 this AD specifies otherwise.
(3) The following service information was
approved for IBR on January 4, 2023.
(i) Boeing Alert Service Bulletin 777–
38A0047, dated March 30, 2021.
(ii) Boeing Alert Requirements Bulletin
777–38A0048 RB, dated October 18, 2021.
(4) The following service information was
approved for IBR on March 5, 2021 (86 FR
12809, March 5, 2021).
(i) Boeing Multi Operator Message MOM–
MOM–21–0089–01B, dated February 26,
2021.
(ii) [Reserved]
(5) For service information identified in
this AD, contact Boeing Commercial
Airplanes, Attention: Contractual & Data
Services (C&DS), 2600 Westminster Blvd.,
MC 110–SK57, Seal Beach, CA 90740–5600;
telephone 562–797–1717; website
myboeingfleet.com.
(6) 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
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Issued on November 1, 2022.
Christina Underwood,
Acting Director, Compliance & Airworthiness
Division, Aircraft Certification Service.
[FR Doc. 2022–26080 Filed 11–29–22; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE 4910–13–P
DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION
Federal Aviation Administration
14 CFR Part 39
[Docket No. FAA–2022–0103; Project
Identifier AD–2021–00977–T; Amendment
39–22238; AD 2022–23–11]
RIN 2120–AA64
Airworthiness Directives; The Boeing
Company Airplanes
Federal Aviation
Administration (FAA), DOT.
ACTION: Final rule.
The FAA is adopting a new
airworthiness directive (AD) for certain
The Boeing Company Model 777
airplanes. This AD was prompted by
reports of discrepancies between the
center wing tank (CWT) fuel quantity, as
indicated by the fuel quantity indicating
system (FQIS), and the refueling truck
uploaded fuel amount, followed by
certain engine-indicating and crewalerting system (EICAS) messages. This
AD requires installing new software in
the fuel quantity processor unit (FQPU),
or replacing the FQPU with one that
includes new software, depending on
airplane configuration; doing a software
version check; and doing a FQPU
operational check, depending on
airplane configuration. This AD also
prohibits the installation of certain
FQPUs on certain airplanes. The FAA is
issuing this AD to address the unsafe
condition on these products.
DATES: This AD is effective January 4,
2023.
The Director of the Federal Register
approved the incorporation by reference
of a certain publication listed in this AD
as of January 4, 2023.
ADDRESSES:
AD Docket: You may examine the AD
docket at regulations.gov under Docket
No. FAA–2022–0103; or in person at
Docket Operations between 9 a.m. and
SUMMARY:
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5 p.m., Monday through Friday, except
Federal holidays. The AD docket
contains this final rule, any comments
received, and other information. The
address for Docket Operations is U.S.
Department of Transportation, Docket
Operations, M–30, West Building
Ground Floor, Room W12–140, 1200
New Jersey Avenue SE, Washington, DC
20590.
Material Incorporated by Reference:
• For service information identified
in this final rule, contact Kevin Nguyen,
Aerospace Engineer, Propulsion
Section, FAA, Seattle ACO Branch, 2200
South 216th St., Des Moines, WA 98198;
phone and fax: 206–231–3555; email:
kevin.nguyen@faa.gov.
• 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. It is also available at
regulations.gov under Docket No. FAA–
2022–0103.
FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT:
Kevin Nguyen, Aerospace Engineer,
Propulsion Section, FAA, Seattle ACO
Branch, 2200 South 216th St., Des
Moines, WA 98198; phone and fax: 206–
231–3555; email: kevin.nguyen@faa.gov.
SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION:
Background
The FAA issued a notice of proposed
rulemaking (NPRM) to amend 14 CFR
part 39 by adding an AD that would
apply to certain The Boeing Company
Model 777 airplanes. The NPRM
published in the Federal Register on
March 21, 2022 (87 FR 15902). The
NPRM was prompted by reports of
discrepancies between the CWT fuel
quantity, as indicated by the FQIS, and
the refueling truck uploaded fuel
amount, followed by certain EICAS
messages. In the NPRM, the FAA
proposed to require installing new
software in the FQPU, or replacing the
FQPU with one that includes new
software, depending on airplane
configuration; doing a software version
check; and doing a FQPU operational
check, depending on airplane
configuration. In the NPRM, the FAA
also proposed to prohibit the
installation of certain FQPUs on certain
airplanes. The FAA is issuing this AD
to address discrepancies in the CWT
FQIS, which can result in an airplane
being dispatched with insufficient fuel
in the CWT and with the flight crew
unaware of the insufficient fuel prior to
departure. This condition, coupled with
continued flight to the destination
airport after receiving EICAS messages
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Federal Register / Vol. 87, No. 229 / Wednesday, November 30, 2022 / Rules and Regulations
while in route to the destination, could
result in fuel exhaustion and subsequent
power loss to all engines, thereby
resulting in the inability to land at the
destination airport or at a diversion
airport, possibly leading to flight into
terrain.
Discussion of Final Airworthiness
Directive
Comments
The FAA received comments from Air
Line Pilots Association, International
(ALPA), FedEx Express, and United
Airlines (UAL), who supported the
NPRM without change.
The FAA received additional
comments from seven commenters,
including Cathay Pacific Airways
(Cathay), Air France (AFA), Korean Air
(KAL), Boeing, British Airways (BAB),
Ontic, and American Airlines (AAL).
The following presents the comments
received on the NPRM and the FAA’s
response to each comment.
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Request To Remove or Modify
Paragraph (j) Parts Installation
Prohibition
Boeing requested that the FAA
remove the parts installation prohibition
specified in paragraph (j) of the
proposed AD. Boeing stated that the
safety rationale for immediate
prohibition of installation of FQIS–1
FQPU P/N 0320KPU01 is unclear, and
that the actions and compliance times
outlined in paragraph (g) of the
proposed AD are sufficient without the
additional prohibitions identified in
paragraph (j) of the proposed AD.
Boeing stated that operators have
indicated a need to continue installing
FQIS–1 FQPU part number (P/N)
0320KPU01 within the compliance
period prior to availability of
replacement FQIS–2 FQPUs P/Ns
0335KPU01, 0335KPU02, and
0335KPU03; and that prohibiting the
installation of a FQIS–1 FQPU would
present an unnecessary hardship due to
insufficient availability of FQIS–2
FQPU. Boeing added that the statement
‘‘This proposed AD would also prohibit
the installation of certain FQPUs on
certain airplanes’’ in the Summary of
the NPRM should also be removed.
AFA requested that the FAA modify
the parts prohibition specified in
paragraph (j) of the proposed AD in
order to give more flexibility and allow
installation of FQIS–1 FQPU P/N
0320KPU01 on airplanes that have not
yet been retrofitted in accordance with
Boeing Alert Requirements Bulletin
777–28A0090 RB, dated March 30,
2021. AFA explained that unplanned
removal (e.g., due to failure or
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troubleshooting) of FQIS–1 FQPU
would necessitate replacement with
FQIS–2 FQPU, but demand for that
cannot be met by the manufacturer.
AFA stated that if the installation
prohibition per paragraph (j) of the
proposed AD is adopted as is, airplanes
would be grounded because of the lack
of required serviceable spares. AFA
asserted that the safety risk is already
addressed by AD 2020–11–11,
Amendment 39–19915 (85 FR 34090,
June 3, 2020) (AD 2020–11–11).
KAL requested that the FAA consider
removing the parts installation
prohibition specified in paragraph (j) of
this proposed AD, or clarify and
mitigate the parts installation
prohibition conditions. KAL said the
vendor was not able to provide the
FQIS–2 FQPU until December 2023.
BAB proposed removing paragraph (j)
of the proposed AD (the ‘‘Parts
Installation Prohibition,’’ requirement)
because the forecast supply of upgraded
FQPUs (FQIS–2 FQPUs P/Ns
0335KPU01, 0335KPU02, and
0335KPU03) does not support the
requirement, and the resulting cost of
aircraft grounding is disproportionate to
the fleet safety risk mitigation provided
to the fleet by the proposed AD. BAB
said the action is not justified; is not
required for fleet safety; and was not
required, recommended, or
communicated to operators in the
Boeing Alert Requirements Bulletin
777–28A0090 RB, dated March 30,
2021, which the FAA has previously
approved.
BAB explained that due to material
shortages, the manufacturer is
forecasting that deliveries of the new
FQPUs will not commence until the
second quarter of 2023. Should the AD
be published with the prohibition
specified in paragraph (j) of the
proposed AD, BAB asserted that there
will be a significant risk of grounding
aircraft due to lack of availability of
FQIS–2 FQPU P/N 0335KPU03. BAB
also said the mandated integrated refuel
panel (IRP) door cycling procedure
required by AD 2020–11–11 is
performed for all fuel uplifts regardless
of whether the CWT is being utilized,
and will continue until Boeing Alert
Requirements Bulletin 777–28A0090
RB, dated March 30, 2021, has been
accomplished on the entire fleet. BAB
concluded that the risk of departing
with less than the minimum fuel for the
mission has been effectively mitigated
since 2020 with this mandated IRP door
cycling procedure.
AAL requested that the FAA allow
replacement of FQIS–1 FQPU P/N
0320KPU01 with the same FQPU while
the fleet is being upgraded to the FQIS–
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73453
2 FQPU (e.g., P/N 0335KPU03), as
specified in Boeing Alert Requirements
Bulletin 777–28A0090 RB, dated March
30, 2021. AAL noted that the parts
installation prohibition specified in
paragraph (j) of the proposed AD
specifies that, for certain airplanes, ‘‘as
of the effective date of the AD,’’ FQIS–
1 FQPU P/N 0320KPU01 may not be
installed. AAL said that the
manufacturer is unable to meet delivery
schedules. AAL noted it will likely not
have the spare FQIS–2 FQPU P/N
0335KPU03 necessary for out-of-service
events caused by failure of FQIS–1
FQPU P/N 0320KPU01, potentially
causing extended down time. AAL
explained that the fuel cycling
procedure required by AD 2020–11–11
will continue while the upgrade is in
progress, eliminating fuel drop events
potentially caused by the FQIS–1 FQPU.
The FAA partially agrees with the
request to modify paragraph (j) of this
AD because, as the commenters
explained, there is a limited availability
of FQIS–2 FQPU, and AD 2020–11–11 is
still in effect for airplanes with FQIS–
1 FQPU installed. The FAA agrees to
provide relief to the parts installation
prohibition specified in paragraph (j) of
this AD by allowing airplanes identified
in Group 1 of Boeing Alert
Requirements Bulletin 777–28A0090
RB, dated March 30, 2021, that still have
FQIS–1 FQPU installed to continue
installing FQIS–1 FQPU P/N
0320KPU01 within the 30-month
compliance time. For those airplanes,
FQIS–1 FQPU must be replaced by
FQIS–2 FQPU by the end of the
compliance time as required by
paragraph (g) of this AD, which
mandates Boeing Alert Requirements
Bulletin 777–28A0090 RB, dated March
30, 2021. Note that paragraph (h) of this
AD (‘‘Exceptions to Service Information
Specifications’’) defines the compliance
time as 30 months after ‘‘the effective
date of this AD’’ rather than after ‘‘the
original issue date of Requirements
Bulletin 777–28A0090 RB.’’
The FAA disagrees with removing
paragraph (j) of this AD completely
because the installation of FQIS–1
FQPU onto Group 1 airplanes that
already have the FQIS–2 FQPU installed
must be prevented, even when there is
an unplanned removal of the FQPU.
Paragraph (j) of this AD has been
revised to read ‘‘For Group 1 airplanes
identified in Boeing Alert Requirements
Bulletin 777–28A0090 RB, dated March
30, 2021, that have a FQIS–2 fuel
quantity processor unit (FQPU) part
number (P/N) 0335KPU01, 0335KPU02,
or 0335KPU03 installed: As of the
effective date of this AD, no person may
install a FQIS–1 FQPU P/N 0320KPU01
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(Boeing P/N S345W001–010), on any
airplane.’’
Request To Extend Compliance Time
AFA requested a reasonable timescale
for replacement of FQIS–1 FQPU P/N
0320KPU01 due to the shortage of
FQIS–2 FQPU replacement units.
KAL also requested that the FAA
provide a compliance time long enough
(e.g., a compliance time extension) to
support the shortage of FQPU (the FAA
infers the commenter is referring to
FQIS–2 FQPU) because of lack of
availability of replacement units. KAL
said the vendor was not able to provide
the FQIS–2 FQPU until December 2023,
and they are unable to meet the
compliance deadline of ‘‘September
2023.’’ The FAA infers that KAL is
measuring the 30-month compliance
time from March 30, 2021, the
publication date of Boeing Alert
Requirements Bulletin 777–28A0090
RB, dated March 30, 2021.
Ontic stated that the limited
availability of FQIS–2 FQPU could not
support the fleet of aircraft still in
operation within the 30 months
compliance time specified in Boeing
Alert Requirements Bulletin 777–
28A0090 RB, dated March 30, 2021.
Ontic further stated that it understands
the 30-month compliance time typically
commences on the release of the AD,
and not the service information. The
FAA infers a request by Ontic to extend
the compliance time if it commences on
the publication date of Boeing Alert
Requirements Bulletin 777–28A0090
RB, dated March 30, 2021.
The FAA disagrees with the request to
change the compliance time of 30
months to accomplish Boeing Alert
Requirements Bulletin 777–28A0090
RB, dated March 30, 2021. The FAA has
confirmed with the manufacturers that a
sufficient supply of FQIS–2 FQPU
would be available to meet the
compliance time if replacement of a
FQIS–1 FQPU with a serviceable FQIS–
1 FQPU is done within that time. As
stated previously, the 30-month
compliance time commences on the
effective date of this AD, as specified in
paragraph (h) of this AD. If operators
encounter difficulty with accomplishing
the actions required by this AD within
the compliance time, they may request
an alternative method of compliance
(AMOC) in accordance with paragraph
(k) of this AD. This AD has not been
changed regarding this request.
AMOC Guidance From Boeing
Boeing offered to provide guidance for
operators who request continued use of
AD 2020–11–11 as an AMOC to this AD.
Boeing said that individual airlines
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operate Model 777 airplanes differently,
therefore a global AMOC is not practical
for this AD. Boeing advised that
considerations for requesting an AMOC
would include frequency and quantity
of center tank fuel loaded for mission
profiles, planned end-of-life retirement
of the airplane, and other factors
impacting individual airline operations.
The FAA supports the manufacturer’s
offer of guidance. Operators may request
AMOCs under the provisions of
paragraph (k) of this AD. This AD has
not been changed regarding this request.
Request To Revise the Summary
Section
Boeing requested that the Summary
section of the NPRM be revised for
clarity. Boeing stated that the Summary
description is inconsistent with the
service bulletin regarding the
operational check and the software
version check. Boeing explained that the
software version check should be
accomplished when the software is
downloaded to the FQPU onboard, and
when a new FQPU is installed on the
airplane. Boeing added that the
operational check is only required when
installing a new or updated FQPU on
the airplane.
The FAA agrees to the request to
revise the Summary section of this AD
for the reason provided by the
commenter. The third sentence of the
Summary has been changed by adding
‘‘, depending on airplane configuration’’
to the end of the sentence.
Recommendation To Modify
Background Paragraphs
Boeing recommended that the
technical description of the design flaw
in the Background paragraphs be refined
for clarity and reduce the possibility of
reader misperception. Boeing provided
revised language for the paragraph
discussing the design flaw. Boeing also
asked that the paragraph discussing the
events where there was incorrect fuel
quantity information be removed; that
paragraph includes a description of the
situation where the FQIS could indicate
less than the actual fuel quantity in the
CWT.
The FAA disagrees with this
recommendation because the referenced
information provided in the Background
paragraphs of the NPRM is not repeated
in the final rule. Furthermore, the
information given adequately describes
the design flaw in the FQIS, including
the one in-service event where more
fuel was added to the center tank than
required for the mission. This AD has
not been changed with regard to this
request.
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Request for Further Information About
Software Loading and the AMOC
Process
Cathay asked for the lead time for an
AMOC to retain the door cycling
procedure of AD 2020–11–11. Cathay
also asked whether a certain Boeing
information notice will be part of the
AD requirement because of difficulties
encountered with software loading.
The FAA advises that the standard
response time for an AMOC application
is 30 days. AMOC requests may be
submitted as indicated in paragraph (k)
of this AD. This AD requires only that
FQPU software be upgraded or the
FQPU replaced. There is no requirement
regarding how the software upgrade is
to be accomplished. Operators may refer
to the Boeing information notice
without requesting an AMOC. This AD
has not been revised in this regard.
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 Boeing Alert
Requirements Bulletin 777–28A0090
RB, dated March 30, 2021. This service
information specifies procedures for a
check of maintenance or delivery
records or an inspection to determine
the part number of the FQPU for Group
1 airplanes. For Group 1 airplanes with
a FQIS–1 FQPU, this service
information specifies procedures for
removing the existing FQPU; installing
certain FQIS–2 FQPU with upgraded
software; and doing a software version
check and FQPU operational check. For
Group 1 airplanes with a FQIS–2 FQPU
and Group 2 airplanes, this service
information specifies procedures for
upgrading the FQPU software, and
doing a software version check.
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.
Costs of Compliance
The FAA estimates that this AD
affects 257 airplanes of U.S. registry.
The FAA estimates the following costs
to comply with this AD:
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73455
ESTIMATED COSTS
Records review or inspection of FQPU part number for Group 1
airplanes (143 airplanes).
Group 1 with FQIS–1 FQPU (125 airplanes): Replace FQPU
with FQIS–2 FQPU, and do software and FQPU checks.
Group 1 with FQIS–2 FQPU and Group 2 (132 airplanes): Upgrade software and do software check.
1 work-hour × $85 per hour = $85 ....................
$0
$85
$12,155
1 work-hour × $85 per hour = $85 ....................
48,300
48,385
6,048,125
1 work-hour × $85 per hour = $85 ....................
0
85
11,220
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,
(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.
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Parts cost
Cost on U.S.
operators
Labor cost
The FAA has included all known
costs in its cost estimate. According to
the software manufacturer, however,
some or all of the costs of this AD may
be covered under warranty, thereby
reducing the cost impact on affected
operators.
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Cost per
product
Action
List of Subjects in 14 CFR Part 39
Air transportation, Aircraft, Aviation
safety, Incorporation by reference,
Safety.
The Amendment
Accordingly, under the authority
delegated to me by the Administrator,
the FAA amends 14 CFR part 39 as
follows:
PART 39—AIRWORTHINESS
DIRECTIVES
1. The authority citation for part 39
continues to read as follows:
■
Authority: 49 U.S.C. 106(g), 40113, 44701.
§ 39.13
[Amended]
2. The FAA amends § 39.13 by adding
the following new airworthiness
directive:
■
2022–23–11 The Boeing Company:
Amendment 39–22238; Docket No.
FAA–2022–0103; Project Identifier AD–
2021–00977–T.
(a) Effective Date
This airworthiness directive (AD) is
effective January 4, 2023
(b) Affected ADs
This AD affects AD 2020–11–11,
Amendment 39–19915 (85 FR 34090, June 3,
2020) (AD 2020–11–11).
(c) Applicability
This AD applies to The Boeing Company
Model 777–200, –200LR, –300, –300ER, and
777F series airplanes, certificated in any
category, Group 1 and Group 2 as identified
in Boeing Alert Requirements Bulletin 777–
28A0090 RB, dated March 30, 2021.
(d) Subject
Air Transport Association (ATA) of
America Code 28, Fuel.
(e) Unsafe Condition
This AD was prompted by reports of
discrepancies between the center wing tank
(CWT) fuel quantity, as indicated by the fuel
quantity indicating system (FQIS), and the
actual amount uploaded from the refueling
truck. The FAA is issuing this AD to address
discrepancies in the CWT FQIS, which can
result in an airplane being dispatched with
insufficient fuel in the CWT and with the
flight crew unaware of the insufficient fuel
prior to departure. This condition, coupled
with continued flight to the destination
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airport after receiving engine-indicating and
crew-alerting system (EICAS) messages while
in route to the destination, could result in
fuel exhaustion and subsequent power loss to
all engines, thereby resulting in the inability
to land at the destination airport or at a
diversion airport, possibly leading to flight
into terrain.
(f) Compliance
Comply with this AD within the
compliance times specified, unless already
done.
(g) Required Actions
Except as specified by paragraph (h) of this
AD: At the applicable times specified in the
‘‘Compliance’’ paragraph of Boeing Alert
Requirements Bulletin 777–28A0090 RB,
dated March 30, 2021, do all applicable
actions identified in, and in accordance with,
the Accomplishment Instructions of Boeing
Alert Requirements Bulletin 777–28A0090
RB, dated March 30, 2021.
Note 1 to paragraph (g): Guidance for
accomplishing the actions required by this
AD can be found in Boeing Alert Service
Bulletin 777–28A0090, dated March 30,
2021, which is referred to in Boeing Alert
Requirements Bulletin 777–28A0090 RB,
dated March 30, 2021.
(h) Exceptions to Service Information
Specifications
Where the Compliance Time column of the
tables in the ‘‘Compliance’’ paragraph of
Boeing Alert Requirements Bulletin 777–
28A0090 RB, dated March 30, 2021, uses the
phrase ‘‘the original issue date of
Requirements Bulletin 777–28A0090 RB,’’
this AD requires using ‘‘the effective date of
this AD.’’
(i) Terminating Action for AD 2020–11–11
Accomplishing the actions required by this
AD on all affected airplanes in an operator’s
fleet terminates the requirements of AD
2020–11–11 for that fleet.
(j) Parts Installation Prohibition
For Group 1 airplanes identified in Boeing
Alert Requirements Bulletin 777–28A0090
RB, dated March 30, 2021, that have a FQIS–
2 fuel quantity processor unit (FQPU) part
number (P/N) 0335KPU01, 0335KPU02, or
0335KPU03 installed: As of the effective date
of this AD, no person may install a FQIS–1
FQPU P/N 0320KPU01 (Boeing P/N
S345W001–010) on any airplane.
(k) Alternative Methods of Compliance
(AMOCs)
(1) The Manager, Seattle ACO Branch,
FAA, has the authority to approve AMOCs
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73456
Federal Register / Vol. 87, No. 229 / Wednesday, November 30, 2022 / Rules and Regulations
for this AD, if requested using the procedures
found in 14 CFR 39.19. In accordance with
14 CFR 39.19, send your request to your
principal inspector or responsible Flight
Standards Office, as appropriate. If sending
information directly to the manager of the
certification office, send it to the attention of
the person identified in paragraph (l)(1) of
this AD. Information may be emailed to: 9ANM-Seattle-ACO-AMOC-Requests@faa.gov.
(2) Before using any approved AMOC,
notify your appropriate principal inspector,
or lacking a principal inspector, the manager
of the responsible Flight Standards Office.
(3) An AMOC that provides an acceptable
level of safety may be used for any repair,
modification, or alteration required by this
AD if it is approved by The Boeing Company
Organization Designation Authorization
(ODA) that has been authorized by the
Manager, Seattle ACO Branch, FAA, to make
those findings. To be approved, the repair
method, modification deviation, or alteration
deviation must meet the certification basis of
the airplane, and the approval must
specifically refer to this AD.
(1) For more information about this AD,
contact Kevin Nguyen, Aerospace Engineer,
Propulsion Section, FAA, Seattle ACO
Branch, 2200 South 216th St., Des Moines,
WA 98198; phone and fax: 206–231–3555;
email: kevin.nguyen@faa.gov.
(2) Service information identified in this
AD that is not incorporated by reference is
available at the addresses specified in
paragraphs (m)(3) and (4) of this AD.
lotter on DSK11XQN23PROD with RULES1
(m) 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) Boeing Alert Requirements Bulletin
777–28A0090 RB, dated March 30, 2021.
(ii) [Reserved]
(3) For service information identified in
this AD, contact Boeing Commercial
Airplanes, Attention: Contractual & Data
Services (C&DS), 2600 Westminster Blvd.,
MC 110–SK57, Seal Beach, CA 90740–5600;
telephone 562–797–1717; internet
myboeingfleet.com.
(4) 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.
(5) 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,
fr.inspection@nara.gov, or go to:
www.archives.gov/federal-register/cfr/ibrlocations.html.
15:58 Nov 29, 2022
[FR Doc. 2022–26079 Filed 11–29–22; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE 4910–13–P
DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION
Federal Aviation Administration
14 CFR Part 39
[Docket No. FAA–2022–1059; Project
Identifier AD–2022–00204–T; Amendment
39–22239; AD 2022–23–12]
Jkt 259001
Airworthiness Directives; The Boeing
Company Airplanes
Federal Aviation
Administration (FAA), DOT.
ACTION: Final rule.
AGENCY:
Frm 00024
Fmt 4700
Sfmt 4700
Nicole Tsang, Aerospace Engineer,
Cabin Safety and Environmental
Systems Section, FAA, Seattle ACO
Branch, 2200 South 216th St., Des
Moines, WA 98198; phone and fax: 206–
231–3959; email: nicole.s.tsang@faa.gov.
SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION:
The FAA is adopting a new
airworthiness directive (AD) for all The
Boeing Company Model 747–100, 747–
100B, 747–100B SUD, 747–200B, 747–
200C, 747–200F, 747–300, 747–400,
747–400D, 747–400F, 747SR, and 747SP
series airplanes. This AD was prompted
by reports that high temperature
composite trim air diffuser ducts
(TADD) showed composite degradation
and signs of hot air leakage. This AD
requires a one-time low frequency eddy
current (LFEC) inspection of certain
center tank upper skin panels on the
right and left side for any structural
damage due to heat exposure, and repair
if necessary. The FAA is issuing this AD
to address the unsafe condition on these
products.
DATES: This AD is effective January 4,
2023.
The Director of the Federal Register
approved the incorporation by reference
of a certain publication listed in this AD
as of January 4, 2023.
ADDRESSES:
AD Docket: You may examine the AD
docket at regulations.gov under Docket
No. FAA–2022–1059; or in person at
Docket Operations between 9 a.m. and
5 p.m., Monday through Friday, except
Federal holidays. The AD docket
contains this final rule, any comments
received, and other information. The
address for Docket Operations is U.S.
Department of Transportation, Docket
Operations, M–30, West Building
Ground Floor, Room W12–140, 1200
New Jersey Avenue SE, Washington, DC
20590.
Material Incorporated by Reference:
• For service information identified
in this final rule, contact Boeing
PO 00000
Commercial Airplanes, Attention:
Contractual & Data Services (C&DS),
2600 Westminster Blvd., MC 110–SK57,
Seal Beach, CA 90740–5600; telephone
562–797–1717; internet
myboeingfleet.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. It is also available at
regulations.gov under Docket No. FAA–
2022–1059.
FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT:
RIN 2120–AA64
SUMMARY:
(l) Related Information
VerDate Sep<11>2014
Issued on November 1, 2022.
Christina Underwood,
Acting Director, Compliance & Airworthiness
Division, Aircraft Certification Service.
Background
The FAA issued a notice of proposed
rulemaking (NPRM) to amend 14 CFR
part 39 by adding an AD that would
apply to all The Boeing Company Model
747–100, 747–100B, 747–100B SUD,
747–200B, 747–200C, 747–200F, 747–
300, 747–400, 747–400D, 747–400F,
747SR, and 747SP series airplanes. The
NPRM published in the Federal
Register on September 8, 2022 (87 FR
54927). The NPRM was prompted by
reports that high temperature composite
TADD showed composite degradation
and signs of hot air leakage. In the
NPRM, the FAA proposed to require a
one-time LFEC inspection of certain
center tank upper skin panels on the
right and left side for any structural
damage due to heat exposure, and repair
if necessary. The FAA is issuing this AD
to address possible sustained hot air
leakage from damaged TADDs, which
could result in undetected damage to
adjacent airframe structure. This
condition, if not addressed, could lead
to heat damage to the wing center
section and adjacent structure and
adversely affect the structural integrity
of the airplane, resulting in the inability
of the structure to carry limit load and
the possible loss of continued safe flight
and landing.
Discussion of Final Airworthiness
Directive
Comments
The FAA received comments from
The Air Line Pilots Association,
International (ALPA), who supported
the NPRM without change.
E:\FR\FM\30NOR1.SGM
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Agencies
[Federal Register Volume 87, Number 229 (Wednesday, November 30, 2022)]
[Rules and Regulations]
[Pages 73452-73456]
From the Federal Register Online via the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]
[FR Doc No: 2022-26079]
-----------------------------------------------------------------------
DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION
Federal Aviation Administration
14 CFR Part 39
[Docket No. FAA-2022-0103; Project Identifier AD-2021-00977-T;
Amendment 39-22238; AD 2022-23-11]
RIN 2120-AA64
Airworthiness Directives; The Boeing Company Airplanes
AGENCY: Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), DOT.
ACTION: Final rule.
-----------------------------------------------------------------------
SUMMARY: The FAA is adopting a new airworthiness directive (AD) for
certain The Boeing Company Model 777 airplanes. This AD was prompted by
reports of discrepancies between the center wing tank (CWT) fuel
quantity, as indicated by the fuel quantity indicating system (FQIS),
and the refueling truck uploaded fuel amount, followed by certain
engine-indicating and crew-alerting system (EICAS) messages. This AD
requires installing new software in the fuel quantity processor unit
(FQPU), or replacing the FQPU with one that includes new software,
depending on airplane configuration; doing a software version check;
and doing a FQPU operational check, depending on airplane
configuration. This AD also prohibits the installation of certain FQPUs
on certain airplanes. The FAA is issuing this AD to address the unsafe
condition on these products.
DATES: This AD is effective January 4, 2023.
The Director of the Federal Register approved the incorporation by
reference of a certain publication listed in this AD as of January 4,
2023.
ADDRESSES:
AD Docket: You may examine the AD docket at regulations.gov under
Docket No. FAA-2022-0103; or in person at Docket Operations between 9
a.m. and 5 p.m., Monday through Friday, except Federal holidays. The AD
docket contains this final rule, any comments received, and other
information. The address for Docket Operations is U.S. Department of
Transportation, Docket Operations, M-30, West Building Ground Floor,
Room W12-140, 1200 New Jersey Avenue SE, Washington, DC 20590.
Material Incorporated by Reference:
For service information identified in this final rule,
contact Kevin Nguyen, Aerospace Engineer, Propulsion Section, FAA,
Seattle ACO Branch, 2200 South 216th St., Des Moines, WA 98198; phone
and fax: 206-231-3555; email: [email protected].
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. It is also available at
regulations.gov under Docket No. FAA-2022-0103.
FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Kevin Nguyen, Aerospace Engineer,
Propulsion Section, FAA, Seattle ACO Branch, 2200 South 216th St., Des
Moines, WA 98198; phone and fax: 206-231-3555; email:
[email protected].
SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION:
Background
The FAA issued a notice of proposed rulemaking (NPRM) to amend 14
CFR part 39 by adding an AD that would apply to certain The Boeing
Company Model 777 airplanes. The NPRM published in the Federal Register
on March 21, 2022 (87 FR 15902). The NPRM was prompted by reports of
discrepancies between the CWT fuel quantity, as indicated by the FQIS,
and the refueling truck uploaded fuel amount, followed by certain EICAS
messages. In the NPRM, the FAA proposed to require installing new
software in the FQPU, or replacing the FQPU with one that includes new
software, depending on airplane configuration; doing a software version
check; and doing a FQPU operational check, depending on airplane
configuration. In the NPRM, the FAA also proposed to prohibit the
installation of certain FQPUs on certain airplanes. The FAA is issuing
this AD to address discrepancies in the CWT FQIS, which can result in
an airplane being dispatched with insufficient fuel in the CWT and with
the flight crew unaware of the insufficient fuel prior to departure.
This condition, coupled with continued flight to the destination
airport after receiving EICAS messages
[[Page 73453]]
while in route to the destination, could result in fuel exhaustion and
subsequent power loss to all engines, thereby resulting in the
inability to land at the destination airport or at a diversion airport,
possibly leading to flight into terrain.
Discussion of Final Airworthiness Directive
Comments
The FAA received comments from Air Line Pilots Association,
International (ALPA), FedEx Express, and United Airlines (UAL), who
supported the NPRM without change.
The FAA received additional comments from seven commenters,
including Cathay Pacific Airways (Cathay), Air France (AFA), Korean Air
(KAL), Boeing, British Airways (BAB), Ontic, and American Airlines
(AAL). The following presents the comments received on the NPRM and the
FAA's response to each comment.
Request To Remove or Modify Paragraph (j) Parts Installation
Prohibition
Boeing requested that the FAA remove the parts installation
prohibition specified in paragraph (j) of the proposed AD. Boeing
stated that the safety rationale for immediate prohibition of
installation of FQIS-1 FQPU P/N 0320KPU01 is unclear, and that the
actions and compliance times outlined in paragraph (g) of the proposed
AD are sufficient without the additional prohibitions identified in
paragraph (j) of the proposed AD. Boeing stated that operators have
indicated a need to continue installing FQIS-1 FQPU part number (P/N)
0320KPU01 within the compliance period prior to availability of
replacement FQIS-2 FQPUs P/Ns 0335KPU01, 0335KPU02, and 0335KPU03; and
that prohibiting the installation of a FQIS-1 FQPU would present an
unnecessary hardship due to insufficient availability of FQIS-2 FQPU.
Boeing added that the statement ``This proposed AD would also prohibit
the installation of certain FQPUs on certain airplanes'' in the Summary
of the NPRM should also be removed.
AFA requested that the FAA modify the parts prohibition specified
in paragraph (j) of the proposed AD in order to give more flexibility
and allow installation of FQIS-1 FQPU P/N 0320KPU01 on airplanes that
have not yet been retrofitted in accordance with Boeing Alert
Requirements Bulletin 777-28A0090 RB, dated March 30, 2021. AFA
explained that unplanned removal (e.g., due to failure or
troubleshooting) of FQIS-1 FQPU would necessitate replacement with
FQIS-2 FQPU, but demand for that cannot be met by the manufacturer. AFA
stated that if the installation prohibition per paragraph (j) of the
proposed AD is adopted as is, airplanes would be grounded because of
the lack of required serviceable spares. AFA asserted that the safety
risk is already addressed by AD 2020-11-11, Amendment 39-19915 (85 FR
34090, June 3, 2020) (AD 2020-11-11).
KAL requested that the FAA consider removing the parts installation
prohibition specified in paragraph (j) of this proposed AD, or clarify
and mitigate the parts installation prohibition conditions. KAL said
the vendor was not able to provide the FQIS-2 FQPU until December 2023.
BAB proposed removing paragraph (j) of the proposed AD (the ``Parts
Installation Prohibition,'' requirement) because the forecast supply of
upgraded FQPUs (FQIS-2 FQPUs P/Ns 0335KPU01, 0335KPU02, and 0335KPU03)
does not support the requirement, and the resulting cost of aircraft
grounding is disproportionate to the fleet safety risk mitigation
provided to the fleet by the proposed AD. BAB said the action is not
justified; is not required for fleet safety; and was not required,
recommended, or communicated to operators in the Boeing Alert
Requirements Bulletin 777-28A0090 RB, dated March 30, 2021, which the
FAA has previously approved.
BAB explained that due to material shortages, the manufacturer is
forecasting that deliveries of the new FQPUs will not commence until
the second quarter of 2023. Should the AD be published with the
prohibition specified in paragraph (j) of the proposed AD, BAB asserted
that there will be a significant risk of grounding aircraft due to lack
of availability of FQIS-2 FQPU P/N 0335KPU03. BAB also said the
mandated integrated refuel panel (IRP) door cycling procedure required
by AD 2020-11-11 is performed for all fuel uplifts regardless of
whether the CWT is being utilized, and will continue until Boeing Alert
Requirements Bulletin 777-28A0090 RB, dated March 30, 2021, has been
accomplished on the entire fleet. BAB concluded that the risk of
departing with less than the minimum fuel for the mission has been
effectively mitigated since 2020 with this mandated IRP door cycling
procedure.
AAL requested that the FAA allow replacement of FQIS-1 FQPU P/N
0320KPU01 with the same FQPU while the fleet is being upgraded to the
FQIS-2 FQPU (e.g., P/N 0335KPU03), as specified in Boeing Alert
Requirements Bulletin 777-28A0090 RB, dated March 30, 2021. AAL noted
that the parts installation prohibition specified in paragraph (j) of
the proposed AD specifies that, for certain airplanes, ``as of the
effective date of the AD,'' FQIS-1 FQPU P/N 0320KPU01 may not be
installed. AAL said that the manufacturer is unable to meet delivery
schedules. AAL noted it will likely not have the spare FQIS-2 FQPU P/N
0335KPU03 necessary for out-of-service events caused by failure of
FQIS-1 FQPU P/N 0320KPU01, potentially causing extended down time. AAL
explained that the fuel cycling procedure required by AD 2020-11-11
will continue while the upgrade is in progress, eliminating fuel drop
events potentially caused by the FQIS-1 FQPU.
The FAA partially agrees with the request to modify paragraph (j)
of this AD because, as the commenters explained, there is a limited
availability of FQIS-2 FQPU, and AD 2020-11-11 is still in effect for
airplanes with FQIS-1 FQPU installed. The FAA agrees to provide relief
to the parts installation prohibition specified in paragraph (j) of
this AD by allowing airplanes identified in Group 1 of Boeing Alert
Requirements Bulletin 777-28A0090 RB, dated March 30, 2021, that still
have FQIS-1 FQPU installed to continue installing FQIS-1 FQPU P/N
0320KPU01 within the 30-month compliance time. For those airplanes,
FQIS-1 FQPU must be replaced by FQIS-2 FQPU by the end of the
compliance time as required by paragraph (g) of this AD, which mandates
Boeing Alert Requirements Bulletin 777-28A0090 RB, dated March 30,
2021. Note that paragraph (h) of this AD (``Exceptions to Service
Information Specifications'') defines the compliance time as 30 months
after ``the effective date of this AD'' rather than after ``the
original issue date of Requirements Bulletin 777-28A0090 RB.''
The FAA disagrees with removing paragraph (j) of this AD completely
because the installation of FQIS-1 FQPU onto Group 1 airplanes that
already have the FQIS-2 FQPU installed must be prevented, even when
there is an unplanned removal of the FQPU.
Paragraph (j) of this AD has been revised to read ``For Group 1
airplanes identified in Boeing Alert Requirements Bulletin 777-28A0090
RB, dated March 30, 2021, that have a FQIS-2 fuel quantity processor
unit (FQPU) part number (P/N) 0335KPU01, 0335KPU02, or 0335KPU03
installed: As of the effective date of this AD, no person may install a
FQIS-1 FQPU P/N 0320KPU01
[[Page 73454]]
(Boeing P/N S345W001-010), on any airplane.''
Request To Extend Compliance Time
AFA requested a reasonable timescale for replacement of FQIS-1 FQPU
P/N 0320KPU01 due to the shortage of FQIS-2 FQPU replacement units.
KAL also requested that the FAA provide a compliance time long
enough (e.g., a compliance time extension) to support the shortage of
FQPU (the FAA infers the commenter is referring to FQIS-2 FQPU) because
of lack of availability of replacement units. KAL said the vendor was
not able to provide the FQIS-2 FQPU until December 2023, and they are
unable to meet the compliance deadline of ``September 2023.'' The FAA
infers that KAL is measuring the 30-month compliance time from March
30, 2021, the publication date of Boeing Alert Requirements Bulletin
777-28A0090 RB, dated March 30, 2021.
Ontic stated that the limited availability of FQIS-2 FQPU could not
support the fleet of aircraft still in operation within the 30 months
compliance time specified in Boeing Alert Requirements Bulletin 777-
28A0090 RB, dated March 30, 2021. Ontic further stated that it
understands the 30-month compliance time typically commences on the
release of the AD, and not the service information. The FAA infers a
request by Ontic to extend the compliance time if it commences on the
publication date of Boeing Alert Requirements Bulletin 777-28A0090 RB,
dated March 30, 2021.
The FAA disagrees with the request to change the compliance time of
30 months to accomplish Boeing Alert Requirements Bulletin 777-28A0090
RB, dated March 30, 2021. The FAA has confirmed with the manufacturers
that a sufficient supply of FQIS-2 FQPU would be available to meet the
compliance time if replacement of a FQIS-1 FQPU with a serviceable
FQIS-1 FQPU is done within that time. As stated previously, the 30-
month compliance time commences on the effective date of this AD, as
specified in paragraph (h) of this AD. If operators encounter
difficulty with accomplishing the actions required by this AD within
the compliance time, they may request an alternative method of
compliance (AMOC) in accordance with paragraph (k) of this AD. This AD
has not been changed regarding this request.
AMOC Guidance From Boeing
Boeing offered to provide guidance for operators who request
continued use of AD 2020-11-11 as an AMOC to this AD. Boeing said that
individual airlines operate Model 777 airplanes differently, therefore
a global AMOC is not practical for this AD. Boeing advised that
considerations for requesting an AMOC would include frequency and
quantity of center tank fuel loaded for mission profiles, planned end-
of-life retirement of the airplane, and other factors impacting
individual airline operations.
The FAA supports the manufacturer's offer of guidance. Operators
may request AMOCs under the provisions of paragraph (k) of this AD.
This AD has not been changed regarding this request.
Request To Revise the Summary Section
Boeing requested that the Summary section of the NPRM be revised
for clarity. Boeing stated that the Summary description is inconsistent
with the service bulletin regarding the operational check and the
software version check. Boeing explained that the software version
check should be accomplished when the software is downloaded to the
FQPU onboard, and when a new FQPU is installed on the airplane. Boeing
added that the operational check is only required when installing a new
or updated FQPU on the airplane.
The FAA agrees to the request to revise the Summary section of this
AD for the reason provided by the commenter. The third sentence of the
Summary has been changed by adding ``, depending on airplane
configuration'' to the end of the sentence.
Recommendation To Modify Background Paragraphs
Boeing recommended that the technical description of the design
flaw in the Background paragraphs be refined for clarity and reduce the
possibility of reader misperception. Boeing provided revised language
for the paragraph discussing the design flaw. Boeing also asked that
the paragraph discussing the events where there was incorrect fuel
quantity information be removed; that paragraph includes a description
of the situation where the FQIS could indicate less than the actual
fuel quantity in the CWT.
The FAA disagrees with this recommendation because the referenced
information provided in the Background paragraphs of the NPRM is not
repeated in the final rule. Furthermore, the information given
adequately describes the design flaw in the FQIS, including the one in-
service event where more fuel was added to the center tank than
required for the mission. This AD has not been changed with regard to
this request.
Request for Further Information About Software Loading and the AMOC
Process
Cathay asked for the lead time for an AMOC to retain the door
cycling procedure of AD 2020-11-11. Cathay also asked whether a certain
Boeing information notice will be part of the AD requirement because of
difficulties encountered with software loading.
The FAA advises that the standard response time for an AMOC
application is 30 days. AMOC requests may be submitted as indicated in
paragraph (k) of this AD. This AD requires only that FQPU software be
upgraded or the FQPU replaced. There is no requirement regarding how
the software upgrade is to be accomplished. Operators may refer to the
Boeing information notice without requesting an AMOC. This AD has not
been revised in this regard.
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 Boeing Alert Requirements Bulletin 777-28A0090 RB,
dated March 30, 2021. This service information specifies procedures for
a check of maintenance or delivery records or an inspection to
determine the part number of the FQPU for Group 1 airplanes. For Group
1 airplanes with a FQIS-1 FQPU, this service information specifies
procedures for removing the existing FQPU; installing certain FQIS-2
FQPU with upgraded software; and doing a software version check and
FQPU operational check. For Group 1 airplanes with a FQIS-2 FQPU and
Group 2 airplanes, this service information specifies procedures for
upgrading the FQPU software, and doing a software version check.
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.
Costs of Compliance
The FAA estimates that this AD affects 257 airplanes of U.S.
registry. The FAA estimates the following costs to comply with this AD:
[[Page 73455]]
Estimated Costs
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Cost per Cost on U.S.
Action Labor cost Parts cost product operators
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Records review or inspection of FQPU 1 work-hour x $85 per $0 $85 $12,155
part number for Group 1 airplanes hour = $85.
(143 airplanes).
Group 1 with FQIS-1 FQPU (125 1 work-hour x $85 per 48,300 48,385 6,048,125
airplanes): Replace FQPU with FQIS-2 hour = $85.
FQPU, and do software and FQPU checks.
Group 1 with FQIS-2 FQPU and Group 2 1 work-hour x $85 per 0 85 11,220
(132 airplanes): Upgrade software and hour = $85.
do software check.
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
The FAA has included all known costs in its cost estimate.
According to the software manufacturer, however, some or all of the
costs of this AD may be covered under warranty, thereby reducing the
cost impact on affected operators.
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,
(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:
2022-23-11 The Boeing Company: Amendment 39-22238; Docket No. FAA-
2022-0103; Project Identifier AD-2021-00977-T.
(a) Effective Date
This airworthiness directive (AD) is effective January 4, 2023
(b) Affected ADs
This AD affects AD 2020-11-11, Amendment 39-19915 (85 FR 34090,
June 3, 2020) (AD 2020-11-11).
(c) Applicability
This AD applies to The Boeing Company Model 777-200, -200LR, -
300, -300ER, and 777F series airplanes, certificated in any
category, Group 1 and Group 2 as identified in Boeing Alert
Requirements Bulletin 777-28A0090 RB, dated March 30, 2021.
(d) Subject
Air Transport Association (ATA) of America Code 28, Fuel.
(e) Unsafe Condition
This AD was prompted by reports of discrepancies between the
center wing tank (CWT) fuel quantity, as indicated by the fuel
quantity indicating system (FQIS), and the actual amount uploaded
from the refueling truck. The FAA is issuing this AD to address
discrepancies in the CWT FQIS, which can result in an airplane being
dispatched with insufficient fuel in the CWT and with the flight
crew unaware of the insufficient fuel prior to departure. This
condition, coupled with continued flight to the destination airport
after receiving engine-indicating and crew-alerting system (EICAS)
messages while in route to the destination, could result in fuel
exhaustion and subsequent power loss to all engines, thereby
resulting in the inability to land at the destination airport or at
a diversion airport, possibly leading to flight into terrain.
(f) Compliance
Comply with this AD within the compliance times specified,
unless already done.
(g) Required Actions
Except as specified by paragraph (h) of this AD: At the
applicable times specified in the ``Compliance'' paragraph of Boeing
Alert Requirements Bulletin 777-28A0090 RB, dated March 30, 2021, do
all applicable actions identified in, and in accordance with, the
Accomplishment Instructions of Boeing Alert Requirements Bulletin
777-28A0090 RB, dated March 30, 2021.
Note 1 to paragraph (g): Guidance for accomplishing the actions
required by this AD can be found in Boeing Alert Service Bulletin
777-28A0090, dated March 30, 2021, which is referred to in Boeing
Alert Requirements Bulletin 777-28A0090 RB, dated March 30, 2021.
(h) Exceptions to Service Information Specifications
Where the Compliance Time column of the tables in the
``Compliance'' paragraph of Boeing Alert Requirements Bulletin 777-
28A0090 RB, dated March 30, 2021, uses the phrase ``the original
issue date of Requirements Bulletin 777-28A0090 RB,'' this AD
requires using ``the effective date of this AD.''
(i) Terminating Action for AD 2020-11-11
Accomplishing the actions required by this AD on all affected
airplanes in an operator's fleet terminates the requirements of AD
2020-11-11 for that fleet.
(j) Parts Installation Prohibition
For Group 1 airplanes identified in Boeing Alert Requirements
Bulletin 777-28A0090 RB, dated March 30, 2021, that have a FQIS-2
fuel quantity processor unit (FQPU) part number (P/N) 0335KPU01,
0335KPU02, or 0335KPU03 installed: As of the effective date of this
AD, no person may install a FQIS-1 FQPU P/N 0320KPU01 (Boeing P/N
S345W001-010) on any airplane.
(k) Alternative Methods of Compliance (AMOCs)
(1) The Manager, Seattle ACO Branch, FAA, has the authority to
approve AMOCs
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for this AD, if requested using the procedures found in 14 CFR
39.19. In accordance with 14 CFR 39.19, send your request to your
principal inspector or responsible Flight Standards Office, as
appropriate. If sending information directly to the manager of the
certification office, send it to the attention of the person
identified in paragraph (l)(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 responsible Flight Standards Office.
(3) An AMOC that provides an acceptable level of safety may be
used for any repair, modification, or alteration required by this AD
if it is approved by The Boeing Company Organization Designation
Authorization (ODA) that has been authorized by the Manager, Seattle
ACO Branch, FAA, to make those findings. To be approved, the repair
method, modification deviation, or alteration deviation must meet
the certification basis of the airplane, and the approval must
specifically refer to this AD.
(l) Related Information
(1) For more information about this AD, contact Kevin Nguyen,
Aerospace Engineer, Propulsion Section, FAA, Seattle ACO Branch,
2200 South 216th St., Des Moines, WA 98198; phone and fax: 206-231-
3555; email: [email protected].
(2) Service information identified in this AD that is not
incorporated by reference is available at the addresses specified in
paragraphs (m)(3) and (4) of this AD.
(m) 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) Boeing Alert Requirements Bulletin 777-28A0090 RB, dated
March 30, 2021.
(ii) [Reserved]
(3) For service information identified in this AD, contact
Boeing Commercial Airplanes, Attention: Contractual & Data Services
(C&DS), 2600 Westminster Blvd., MC 110-SK57, Seal Beach, CA 90740-
5600; telephone 562-797-1717; internet myboeingfleet.com.
(4) 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.
(5) 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 protected], or go to: www.archives.gov/federal-register/cfr/ibr-locations.html.
Issued on November 1, 2022.
Christina Underwood,
Acting Director, Compliance & Airworthiness Division, Aircraft
Certification Service.
[FR Doc. 2022-26079 Filed 11-29-22; 8:45 am]
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