Airworthiness Directives; The Boeing Company Airplanes, 73452-73456 [2022-26079]

Download as PDF lotter on DSK11XQN23PROD with RULES1 73452 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 VerDate Sep<11>2014 15:58 Nov 29, 2022 Jkt 259001 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: PO 00000 Frm 00020 Fmt 4700 Sfmt 4700 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 E:\FR\FM\30NOR1.SGM 30NOR1 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. lotter on DSK11XQN23PROD with RULES1 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 VerDate Sep<11>2014 15:58 Nov 29, 2022 Jkt 259001 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– PO 00000 Frm 00021 Fmt 4700 Sfmt 4700 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 E:\FR\FM\30NOR1.SGM 30NOR1 73454 Federal Register / Vol. 87, No. 229 / Wednesday, November 30, 2022 / Rules and Regulations lotter on DSK11XQN23PROD with RULES1 (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 VerDate Sep<11>2014 15:58 Nov 29, 2022 Jkt 259001 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. PO 00000 Frm 00022 Fmt 4700 Sfmt 4700 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: E:\FR\FM\30NOR1.SGM 30NOR1 Federal Register / Vol. 87, No. 229 / Wednesday, November 30, 2022 / Rules and Regulations 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. VerDate Sep<11>2014 15:58 Nov 29, 2022 Jkt 259001 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. lotter on DSK11XQN23PROD with RULES1 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 PO 00000 Frm 00023 Fmt 4700 Sfmt 4700 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 E:\FR\FM\30NOR1.SGM 30NOR1 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 30NOR1

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

[[Page 73456]]

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]
BILLING CODE 4910-13-P


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