Airworthiness Directives; The Boeing Company Airplanes, 21120-21123 [2023-07368]

Download as PDF 21120 Federal Register / Vol. 88, No. 68 / Monday, April 10, 2023 / Proposed Rules AD, do the actions required by paragraphs (h)(2)(i) and (ii) of this AD. (i) Record the unserviceable part in accordance with paragraph 2.E.(1) of the Accomplishment Instructions of Survitec [RFD] Alert Service Bulletin 25–207–A, Version 1, dated November 24, 2021. (ii) Replace the discrepant part with a new or serviceable part, in accordance with paragraph 2.E.(2) of the Accomplishment Instructions of Survitec [RFD] Alert Service Bulletin 25–207–A, Version 1, dated November 24, 2021. (m) Additional Information (i) Parts Installation Limitation (n) Material Incorporated by Reference As of the effective date of this AD, no person may install a life jacket identified in paragraph (c) of this AD on any airplane, unless the life jacket and its valise/container have been inspected, and re-identified or replaced as applicable, in accordance with the requirements of paragraphs (g) and (h) of this AD. (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. (i) Survitec [RFD] Alert Service Bulletin 25–207–A, Version 1, dated November 24, 2021. Note 2 to paragraph (n)(2)(i): This alert service bulletin is identified throughout as ‘‘Survitec,’’ while ‘‘RFD’’ is identified on only the first page of the document. Although both ‘‘Survitec’’ and ‘‘RFD’’ are current company names, the alert service bulletin applies to RFD life jackets. (ii) [Reserved] (3) For service information identified in this AD, contact Survitec Group Limited, Kingsway, Dunmurry, Belfast BT17 9AF, United Kingdom; phone: +44 2890 301531, fax: +44 2890 621765; email: steve.pickering@survitecgroup.com; website survitecgroup.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 fr.inspection@nara.gov, or go to: www.archives.gov/federal-register/cfr/ibrlocations.html. (j) Reporting Requirement At the applicable time specified in paragraph (j)(1) or (2) of this AD, submit a report of the inspection results to Survitec, in accordance with paragraph 2.F. of the Accomplishment Instructions of Survitec [RFD] Alert Service Bulletin 25–207–A, Version 1, dated November 24, 2021. (1) If the inspection was done on or after the effective date of this AD: Submit the report within 30 days after the inspection. (2) If the inspection was done before the effective date of this AD: Submit the report within 30 days after the effective date of this AD. (k) Special Flight Permits Special flight permits, as described in 14 CFR 21.197 and 21.199, are not allowed. ddrumheller on DSK120RN23PROD with PROPOSALS1 (l) Additional AD Provisions The following provisions also apply to this AD: (1) Alternative Methods of Compliance (AMOCs): The Manager, Boston 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, Boston ACO Branch, mail it to the address identified in paragraph (m)(2) of this AD or email to: 9-AVS-AIR-BACO-COS@faa.gov. If mailing information, also submit information by email. Before using any approved AMOC, notify your appropriate principal inspector, or lacking a principal inspector, the manager of the responsible Flight Standards Office. (2) Contacting the Manufacturer: For any requirement in this AD to obtain instructions from a manufacturer, the instructions must be accomplished using a method approved by the Manager, Boston ACO Branch, FAA; or the United Kingdom Civil Aviation Authority (U.K. CAA); or Survitec Group Limited’s U.K. CAA’s Alternative Procedure for Design Organization Approval (ADOA). If approved by the ADOA, the approval must include the ADOA-authorized signature. VerDate Sep<11>2014 16:51 Apr 07, 2023 Jkt 259001 DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION (1) Refer to U.K. CAA AD G–2022–0009, dated April 21, 2022, for related information. This U.K. CAA AD may be found in the AD docket at regulations.gov under Docket No. FAA–2023–0666. (2) For more information about this AD, contact Kevin Kung, Aerospace Engineer, Aviation Safety Section AIR–7B1, Boston ACO Branch, FAA, 1200 District Avenue, Burlington, MA 01803; telephone 781–238– 7244; email 9-AVS-AIR-BACO-COS@faa.gov. Issued on April 4, 2023. Christina Underwood, Acting Director, Compliance & Airworthiness Division, Aircraft Certification Service. [FR Doc. 2023–07397 Filed 4–7–23; 8:45 am] BILLING CODE 4910–13–P PO 00000 Frm 00007 Fmt 4702 Sfmt 4702 Federal Aviation Administration 14 CFR Part 39 [Docket No. FAA–2023–0657; Project Identifier AD–2022–01351–T] RIN 2120–AA64 Airworthiness Directives; The Boeing Company Airplanes Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), DOT. ACTION: Notice of proposed rulemaking (NPRM). AGENCY: The FAA proposes to adopt a new airworthiness directive (AD) for all The Boeing Company Model 787–8, 787–9, and 787–10 airplanes. This proposed AD was prompted by reports of undetected water leaks from the faucet control module (FCM) migrating below the passenger floor in multiple lavatory locations during flight, and into the electronic equipment bay(s). This proposed AD would require repetitive general visual inspections of the area under all lavatory washbasins for evidence of intermittent and active leaks at the FCM and applicable on-condition actions. The FAA is proposing this AD to address the unsafe condition on these products. DATES: The FAA must receive comments on this proposed AD by May 25, 2023. ADDRESSES: You may send comments, using the procedures found in 14 CFR 11.43 and 11.45, by any of the following methods: • Federal eRulemaking Portal: Go to regulations.gov. Follow the instructions for submitting comments. • Fax: 202–493–2251. • Mail: U.S. Department of Transportation, Docket Operations, M– 30, West Building Ground Floor, Room W12–140, 1200 New Jersey Avenue SE, Washington, DC 20590. • Hand Delivery: Deliver to Mail address above between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m., Monday through Friday, except Federal holidays. AD Docket: You may examine the AD docket at regulations.gov under Docket No. FAA–2023–0657; or in person at Docket Operations between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m., Monday through Friday, except Federal holidays. The AD docket contains this NPRM, any comments received, and other information. The street address for Docket Operations is listed above. Material Incorporated by Reference: • For service information identified in this NPRM, contact Boeing Commercial Airplanes, Attention: SUMMARY: E:\FR\FM\10APP1.SGM 10APP1 Federal Register / Vol. 88, No. 68 / Monday, April 10, 2023 / Proposed Rules Contractual & Data Services (C&DS), 2600 Westminster Blvd., MC 110–SK57, Seal Beach, CA 90740–5600; telephone 562–797–1717; website 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 by searching for and locating Docket No. FAA–2023–0657. FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Courtney Tuck, Aerospace Engineer, Cabin Safety and Environmental Systems Section, FAA, Seattle ACO Branch, 2200 South 216th St., Des Moines, WA 98198; phone: 206–231– 3986; email: Courtney.K.Tuck@faa.gov. SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: Comments Invited The FAA invites you to send any written relevant data, views, or arguments about this proposal. Send your comments to an address listed under ADDRESSES. Include ‘‘Docket No. FAA–2023–0657; Project Identifier AD– 2022–01351–T’’ at the beginning of your comments. The most helpful comments reference a specific portion of the proposal, explain the reason for any recommended change, and include supporting data. The FAA will consider all comments received by the closing date and may amend this proposal because of those comments. Except for Confidential Business Information (CBI) as described in the following paragraph, and other information as described in 14 CFR 11.35, the FAA will post all comments received, without change, to regulations.gov, including any personal information you provide. The agency will also post a report summarizing each substantive verbal contact received about this NPRM. ddrumheller on DSK120RN23PROD with PROPOSALS1 Confidential Business Information CBI is commercial or financial information that is both customarily and actually treated as private by its owner. Under the Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) (5 U.S.C. 552), CBI is exempt from public disclosure. If your comments responsive to this NPRM contain commercial or financial information that is customarily treated as private, that you actually treat as private, and that is relevant or responsive to this NPRM, it is important that you clearly designate the submitted comments as CBI. Please mark each page of your submission containing CBI as ‘‘PROPIN.’’ The FAA will treat such VerDate Sep<11>2014 16:51 Apr 07, 2023 Jkt 259001 marked submissions as confidential under the FOIA, and they will not be placed in the public docket of this NPRM. Submissions containing CBI should be sent to Courtney Tuck, Aerospace Engineer, Cabin Safety and Environmental Systems Section, FAA, Seattle ACO Branch, 2200 South 216th St., Des Moines, WA 98198; phone: 206–231–3986; email: Courtney.K.Tuck@faa.gov. Any commentary that the FAA receives that is not specifically designated as CBI will be placed in the public docket for this rulemaking. Background The FAA received reports of undetected water leaks from the faucet control module (FCM) migrating below the passenger floor in multiple lavatory locations during flight, and into the electronic equipment bay(s), which could damage flight critical equipment. One operator found wet carpet around the flight deck which led to an inspection of their fleet. After inspecting their fleet, multiple airplanes had water leaking from the FCMs. The FCMs are located under the sinks in each lavatory and have an O-ring seal at the top of the FCM mixing chamber, which has been identified as the source of the leak. When the FCM is activated and the lavatory faucet is in use, a small amount of water can leak past the Oring. The leak path is out of the lavatory module and through the airplane floor. Intermittent leakage will have a slow leak rate (approximately 8 ounces per hour) but a long latency period because it is difficult to detect. This condition, if not addressed, could result in loss of multiple line replaceable units (LRUs) and subsequent loss of continued safe flight and landing. FAA’s Determination The FAA is issuing this NPRM after determining that the unsafe condition described previously is likely to exist or develop on other products of the same type design. Related Service Information Under 1 CFR Part 51 The FAA reviewed Boeing Alert Requirements Bulletin B787–81205– SB250290–00 RB, Issue 001, dated November 1, 2022. This service information specifies procedures for a repetitive general visual inspection of the area under all lavatory washbasins for evidence of intermittent and active leaks at the FCM and applicable oncondition actions. On-condition actions include replacing the affected FCM with new or serviceable FCM at affected PO 00000 Frm 00008 Fmt 4702 Sfmt 4702 21121 lavatory washbasin(s), and do a leak test. If a leak is found, do applicable corrective action. Repeat the leak test and make sure no leak is found. This service information is reasonably available because the interested parties have access to it through their normal course of business or by the means identified in ADDRESSES. Proposed AD Requirements in This NPRM This proposed AD would require accomplishing the actions specified in the service information already described except for any differences identified as exceptions in the regulatory text of this proposed AD, and except as discussed under ‘‘Differences Between this Proposed AD and the Service Information.’’ For information on the procedures and compliance times, see this service information at regulations.gov by searching for and locating Docket No. FAA–2023–0657. Interim Action The FAA considers that this proposed AD would be an interim action. The manufacturer is currently developing a redesigned FCM that will address the unsafe condition identified in this AD. Once this FCM is developed, approved, and available, the FAA might consider additional rulemaking. Differences Between This Proposed AD and the Service Information The effectivity of Boeing Alert Requirements Bulletin B787–81205– SB250290–00 RB, Issue 001, dated November 1, 2022, is limited to Model 787–8, –9, and –10 airplanes, line numbers 6 through 9996. However, the applicability of this proposed AD includes all Boeing Model 787–8, 787– 9, and 787–10 airplanes. The FAA has determined that until the redesigned FCM is developed, approved, and available, the interim solution provided in this proposed AD must be required for all Model 787–8, –9, and –10 airplanes. If an airplane has a redesigned FCM installed in production that would eliminate the need for the interim solution, the operator may request an alternative method of compliance (AMOC) in accordance with the procedures specified in the AD. Further, if the FAA later obtains updated information from Boeing regarding new production airplanes that have the redesigned FCM, the agency may consider revising the applicability of the final rule to exclude airplanes with the redesigned FCM. E:\FR\FM\10APP1.SGM 10APP1 21122 Federal Register / Vol. 88, No. 68 / Monday, April 10, 2023 / Proposed Rules Costs of Compliance The FAA estimates that this AD, if adopted as proposed, would affect 140 airplanes of U.S. registry. The FAA estimates the following costs to comply with this proposed AD: ESTIMATED COSTS Action Labor cost Parts cost Cost per product Cost on U.S. operators Inspection ....................................... 1 work-hour × $85 per hour = $85 per inspection cycle. $0 $85 per inspection cycle ................ $11,900 The FAA estimates the following costs to do any necessary replacements that would be required based on the results of the proposed inspection. The agency has no way of determining the number of aircraft that might need these replacements: ON-CONDITION COSTS Action Labor cost Parts cost Cost per product Replacement ................................................................. 1 work-hour × $85 per hour = $85 ............................... $6,021 $6,106 ddrumheller on DSK120RN23PROD with PROPOSALS1 Authority for This Rulemaking Title 49 of the United States Code specifies the FAA’s authority to issue rules on aviation safety. Subtitle I, section 106, describes the authority of the FAA Administrator. Subtitle VII: Aviation Programs, describes in more detail the scope of the Agency’s authority. The FAA is issuing this rulemaking under the authority described in Subtitle VII, Part A, Subpart III, Section 44701: General requirements. Under that section, Congress charges the FAA with promoting safe flight of civil aircraft in air commerce by prescribing regulations for practices, methods, and procedures the Administrator finds necessary for safety in air commerce. This regulation is within the scope of that authority because it addresses an unsafe condition that is likely to exist or develop on products identified in this rulemaking action. Regulatory Findings The FAA determined that this proposed AD would not have federalism implications under Executive Order 13132. This proposed AD would not have a substantial direct effect on the States, on the relationship between the national Government and the States, or on the distribution of power and responsibilities among the various levels of government. For the reasons discussed above, I certify this proposed regulation: (1) Is not a ‘‘significant regulatory action’’ under Executive Order 12866, (2) Would not affect intrastate aviation in Alaska, and (3) Would not have a significant economic impact, positive or negative, VerDate Sep<11>2014 16:51 Apr 07, 2023 Jkt 259001 on a substantial number of small entities under the criteria of the Regulatory Flexibility Act. List of Subjects in 14 CFR Part 39 Air transportation, Aircraft, Aviation safety, Incorporation by reference, Safety. The Proposed Amendment Accordingly, under the authority delegated to me by the Administrator, the FAA proposes to amend 14 CFR part 39 as follows: 1. The authority citation for part 39 continues to read as follows: ■ Authority: 49 U.S.C. 106(g), 40113, 44701. [Amended] 2. The FAA amends § 39.13 by adding the following new airworthiness directive: ■ The Boeing Company: Docket No. FAA– 2023–0657; Project Identifier AD–2022– 01351–T. (a) Comments Due Date The FAA must receive comments on this airworthiness directive (AD) by May 25, 2023. (b) Affected ADs None. (c) Applicability This AD applies to all The Boeing Company Model 787–8, 787–9, and 787–10 airplanes, certificated in any category. (d) Subject Air Transport Association (ATA) of America Code 38, Water/waste. PO 00000 Frm 00009 Fmt 4702 Sfmt 4702 This AD was prompted by reports of undetected water leaks from the faucet control module (FCM) migrating below the passenger floor in multiple lavatory locations during flight, and into the electronic equipment bay(s). The FAA is issuing this AD to address undetected water leaks, which could damage flight critical equipment. The unsafe condition, if not addressed, could result in loss of multiple line replaceable units (LRUs) and subsequent loss of continued safe flight and landing. (f) Compliance Comply with this AD within the compliance times specified, unless already done. PART 39—AIRWORTHINESS DIRECTIVES § 39.13 (e) Unsafe Condition (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 B787–81205– SB250290–00 RB, Issue 001, dated November 1, 2022, do all applicable actions identified in, and in accordance with, the Accomplishment Instructions of Boeing Alert Requirements Bulletin B787–81205– SB250290–00 RB, Issue 001, dated November 1, 2022. Note 1 to paragraph (g): Guidance for accomplishing the actions required by this AD can be found in Boeing Alert Service Bulletin B787–81205–SB250290–00, Issue 001, dated November 1, 2022, which is referred to in Boeing Alert Requirements Bulletin B787–81205–SB250290–00, Issue 001, dated November 1, 2022. (h) Exceptions to Service Information Specifications Where the Compliance Time column of the table in the ‘‘Compliance’’ paragraph of Boeing Alert Requirements Bulletin B787– 81205–SB250290–00 RB, Issue 001, dated November 1, 2022, uses the phrase ‘‘the Issue 001 date of the Requirements Bulletin B787– E:\FR\FM\10APP1.SGM 10APP1 Federal Register / Vol. 88, No. 68 / Monday, April 10, 2023 / Proposed Rules 81205–SB250290–00 RB,’’ this AD requires using ‘‘the effective date of this AD.’’ (i) 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 (j) 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. ddrumheller on DSK120RN23PROD with PROPOSALS1 (j) 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: 206–231–3986; email: Courtney.K.Tuck@faa.gov. (k) Material Incorporated by Reference (1) The Director of the Federal Register approved the incorporation by reference (IBR) of the service information listed in this paragraph under 5 U.S.C. 552(a) and 1 CFR part 51. (2) You must use this service information as applicable to do the actions required by this AD, unless the AD specifies otherwise. (i) Boeing Alert Requirements Bulletin B787–81205–SB250290–00 RB, Issue 001, dated November 1, 2022. (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; website 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. VerDate Sep<11>2014 16:51 Apr 07, 2023 Jkt 259001 Issued on March 24, 2023. Christina Underwood, Acting Director, Compliance & Airworthiness Division, Aircraft Certification Service. [FR Doc. 2023–07368 Filed 4–7–23; 8:45 am] BILLING CODE 4910–13–P DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION Federal Aviation Administration 14 CFR Part 39 [Docket No. FAA–2023–0662; Project Identifier MCAI–2022–00745–T] RIN 2120–AA64 Airworthiness Directives; Bombardier, Inc., Airplanes Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), DOT. ACTION: Notice of proposed rulemaking (NPRM). AGENCY: The FAA proposes to supersede Airworthiness Directive (AD) 2020–07–13, which applies to certain Bombardier, Inc., Model BD–100–1A10 airplanes. AD 2020–07–13 requires revising the existing airplane flight manual (AFM) to provide the flightcrew with new warnings for ‘‘Autoflight’’ and ‘‘Engine Failure in Climb During ALTS CAP.’’ Since the FAA issued AD 2020– 07–13, the procedures were revised to ensure that all applicable altitude capture modes utilized and annunciated in the affected fleet are included and to more clearly denote these altitude capture modes. This proposed AD would require revising the existing AFM to provide the flightcrew with new warnings for ‘‘Autoflight’’ and ‘‘Engine Failure in Climb During (V) ALTS CAP or (V) ALTV CAP.’’ The FAA is proposing this AD to address the unsafe condition on these products. DATES: The FAA must receive comments on this proposed AD by May 25, 2023. ADDRESSES: You may send comments, using the procedures found in 14 CFR 11.43 and 11.45, by any of the following methods: • Federal eRulemaking Portal: Go to regulations.gov. Follow the instructions for submitting comments. • Fax: 202–493–2251. • Mail: U.S. Department of Transportation, Docket Operations, M– 30, West Building Ground Floor, Room W12–140, 1200 New Jersey Avenue SE, Washington, DC 20590. • Hand Delivery: Deliver to Mail address above between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m., Monday through Friday, except Federal holidays. AD Docket: You may examine the AD docket at SUMMARY: PO 00000 Frm 00010 Fmt 4702 Sfmt 4702 21123 regulations.gov under Docket No. FAA– 2023–0662; or in person at Docket Operations between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m., Monday through Friday, except Federal holidays. The AD docket contains this NPRM, the mandatory continuing airworthiness information (MCAI), any comments received, and other information. The street address for Docket Operations is listed above. Material Incorporated by Reference: • For service information identified in this NPRM, contact Bombardier Business Aircraft Customer Response Center, 400 Coˆte-Vertu Road West, Dorval, Que´bec H4S 1Y9, Canada; telephone 514–855–2999; email ac.yul@ aero.bombardier.com; website bombardier.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. FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Steven Dzierzynski, Aerospace Engineer, Avionics and Electrical Systems Section, FAA, New York ACO Branch, 1600 Stewart Avenue, Suite 410, Westbury, NY 11590; telephone 516–228–7367; email 9-avs-nyaco-cos@ faa.gov. SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: Comments Invited The FAA invites you to send any written relevant data, views, or arguments about this proposal. Send your comments to an address listed under ADDRESSES. Include ‘‘Docket No. FAA–2023–0662; Project Identifier MCAI–2022–00745–T’’ at the beginning of your comments. The most helpful comments reference a specific portion of the proposal, explain the reason for any recommended change, and include supporting data. The FAA will consider all comments received by the closing date and may amend the proposal because of those comments. Except for Confidential Business Information (CBI) as described in the following paragraph, and other information as described in 14 CFR 11.35, the FAA will post all comments received, without change, to regulations.gov, including any personal information you provide. The agency will also post a report summarizing each substantive verbal contact received about this NPRM. Confidential Business Information CBI is commercial or financial information that is both customarily and actually treated as private by its owner. E:\FR\FM\10APP1.SGM 10APP1

Agencies

[Federal Register Volume 88, Number 68 (Monday, April 10, 2023)]
[Proposed Rules]
[Pages 21120-21123]
From the Federal Register Online via the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]
[FR Doc No: 2023-07368]


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DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION

Federal Aviation Administration

14 CFR Part 39

[Docket No. FAA-2023-0657; Project Identifier AD-2022-01351-T]
RIN 2120-AA64


Airworthiness Directives; The Boeing Company Airplanes

AGENCY: Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), DOT.

ACTION: Notice of proposed rulemaking (NPRM).

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

SUMMARY: The FAA proposes to adopt a new airworthiness directive (AD) 
for all The Boeing Company Model 787-8, 787-9, and 787-10 airplanes. 
This proposed AD was prompted by reports of undetected water leaks from 
the faucet control module (FCM) migrating below the passenger floor in 
multiple lavatory locations during flight, and into the electronic 
equipment bay(s). This proposed AD would require repetitive general 
visual inspections of the area under all lavatory washbasins for 
evidence of intermittent and active leaks at the FCM and applicable on-
condition actions. The FAA is proposing this AD to address the unsafe 
condition on these products.

DATES: The FAA must receive comments on this proposed AD by May 25, 
2023.

ADDRESSES: You may send comments, using the procedures found in 14 CFR 
11.43 and 11.45, by any of the following methods:
     Federal eRulemaking Portal: Go to regulations.gov. Follow 
the instructions for submitting comments.
     Fax: 202-493-2251.
     Mail: U.S. Department of Transportation, Docket 
Operations, M-30, West Building Ground Floor, Room W12-140, 1200 New 
Jersey Avenue SE, Washington, DC 20590.
     Hand Delivery: Deliver to Mail address above between 9 
a.m. and 5 p.m., Monday through Friday, except Federal holidays.
    AD Docket: You may examine the AD docket at regulations.gov under 
Docket No. FAA-2023-0657; or in person at Docket Operations between 9 
a.m. and 5 p.m., Monday through Friday, except Federal holidays. The AD 
docket contains this NPRM, any comments received, and other 
information. The street address for Docket Operations is listed above.
    Material Incorporated by Reference:
     For service information identified in this NPRM, contact 
Boeing Commercial Airplanes, Attention:

[[Page 21121]]

Contractual & Data Services (C&DS), 2600 Westminster Blvd., MC 110-
SK57, Seal Beach, CA 90740-5600; telephone 562-797-1717; website 
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 by searching for and locating Docket No. FAA-2023-0657.

FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Courtney Tuck, Aerospace Engineer, 
Cabin Safety and Environmental Systems Section, FAA, Seattle ACO 
Branch, 2200 South 216th St., Des Moines, WA 98198; phone: 206-231-
3986; email: [email protected].

SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: 

Comments Invited

    The FAA invites you to send any written relevant data, views, or 
arguments about this proposal. Send your comments to an address listed 
under ADDRESSES. Include ``Docket No. FAA-2023-0657; Project Identifier 
AD-2022-01351-T'' at the beginning of your comments. The most helpful 
comments reference a specific portion of the proposal, explain the 
reason for any recommended change, and include supporting data. The FAA 
will consider all comments received by the closing date and may amend 
this proposal because of those comments.
    Except for Confidential Business Information (CBI) as described in 
the following paragraph, and other information as described in 14 CFR 
11.35, the FAA will post all comments received, without change, to 
regulations.gov, including any personal information you provide. The 
agency will also post a report summarizing each substantive verbal 
contact received about this NPRM.

Confidential Business Information

    CBI is commercial or financial information that is both customarily 
and actually treated as private by its owner. Under the Freedom of 
Information Act (FOIA) (5 U.S.C. 552), CBI is exempt from public 
disclosure. If your comments responsive to this NPRM contain commercial 
or financial information that is customarily treated as private, that 
you actually treat as private, and that is relevant or responsive to 
this NPRM, it is important that you clearly designate the submitted 
comments as CBI. Please mark each page of your submission containing 
CBI as ``PROPIN.'' The FAA will treat such marked submissions as 
confidential under the FOIA, and they will not be placed in the public 
docket of this NPRM. Submissions containing CBI should be sent to 
Courtney Tuck, Aerospace Engineer, Cabin Safety and Environmental 
Systems Section, FAA, Seattle ACO Branch, 2200 South 216th St., Des 
Moines, WA 98198; phone: 206-231-3986; email: [email protected]. 
Any commentary that the FAA receives that is not specifically 
designated as CBI will be placed in the public docket for this 
rulemaking.

Background

    The FAA received reports of undetected water leaks from the faucet 
control module (FCM) migrating below the passenger floor in multiple 
lavatory locations during flight, and into the electronic equipment 
bay(s), which could damage flight critical equipment. One operator 
found wet carpet around the flight deck which led to an inspection of 
their fleet. After inspecting their fleet, multiple airplanes had water 
leaking from the FCMs.
    The FCMs are located under the sinks in each lavatory and have an 
O-ring seal at the top of the FCM mixing chamber, which has been 
identified as the source of the leak. When the FCM is activated and the 
lavatory faucet is in use, a small amount of water can leak past the O-
ring. The leak path is out of the lavatory module and through the 
airplane floor. Intermittent leakage will have a slow leak rate 
(approximately 8 ounces per hour) but a long latency period because it 
is difficult to detect.
    This condition, if not addressed, could result in loss of multiple 
line replaceable units (LRUs) and subsequent loss of continued safe 
flight and landing.

FAA's Determination

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

Related Service Information Under 1 CFR Part 51

    The FAA reviewed Boeing Alert Requirements Bulletin B787-81205-
SB250290-00 RB, Issue 001, dated November 1, 2022. This service 
information specifies procedures for a repetitive general visual 
inspection of the area under all lavatory washbasins for evidence of 
intermittent and active leaks at the FCM and applicable on-condition 
actions. On-condition actions include replacing the affected FCM with 
new or serviceable FCM at affected lavatory washbasin(s), and do a leak 
test. If a leak is found, do applicable corrective action. Repeat the 
leak test and make sure no leak is found.
    This service information is reasonably available because the 
interested parties have access to it through their normal course of 
business or by the means identified in ADDRESSES.

Proposed AD Requirements in This NPRM

    This proposed AD would require accomplishing the actions specified 
in the service information already described except for any differences 
identified as exceptions in the regulatory text of this proposed AD, 
and except as discussed under ``Differences Between this Proposed AD 
and the Service Information.'' For information on the procedures and 
compliance times, see this service information at regulations.gov by 
searching for and locating Docket No. FAA-2023-0657.

Interim Action

    The FAA considers that this proposed AD would be an interim action. 
The manufacturer is currently developing a redesigned FCM that will 
address the unsafe condition identified in this AD. Once this FCM is 
developed, approved, and available, the FAA might consider additional 
rulemaking.

Differences Between This Proposed AD and the Service Information

    The effectivity of Boeing Alert Requirements Bulletin B787-81205-
SB250290-00 RB, Issue 001, dated November 1, 2022, is limited to Model 
787-8, -9, and -10 airplanes, line numbers 6 through 9996. However, the 
applicability of this proposed AD includes all Boeing Model 787-8, 787-
9, and 787-10 airplanes. The FAA has determined that until the 
redesigned FCM is developed, approved, and available, the interim 
solution provided in this proposed AD must be required for all Model 
787-8, -9, and -10 airplanes. If an airplane has a redesigned FCM 
installed in production that would eliminate the need for the interim 
solution, the operator may request an alternative method of compliance 
(AMOC) in accordance with the procedures specified in the AD. Further, 
if the FAA later obtains updated information from Boeing regarding new 
production airplanes that have the redesigned FCM, the agency may 
consider revising the applicability of the final rule to exclude 
airplanes with the redesigned FCM.

[[Page 21122]]

Costs of Compliance

    The FAA estimates that this AD, if adopted as proposed, would 
affect 140 airplanes of U.S. registry. The FAA estimates the following 
costs to comply with this proposed AD:

                                                 Estimated Costs
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                                                   Cost on U.S.
              Action                     Labor cost          Parts cost      Cost per product       operators
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Inspection........................  1 work-hour x $85                 $0   $85 per inspection           $11,900
                                     per hour = $85 per                     cycle.
                                     inspection cycle.
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

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

                                               On-Condition Costs
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                                                     Cost per
                    Action                                Labor cost               Parts cost        product
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Replacement..................................  1 work-hour x $85 per hour =             $6,021           $6,106
                                                $85.
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Authority for This Rulemaking

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

Regulatory Findings

    The FAA determined that this proposed AD would not have federalism 
implications under Executive Order 13132. This proposed AD would not 
have a substantial direct effect on the States, on the relationship 
between the national Government and the States, or on the distribution 
of power and responsibilities among the various levels of government.
    For the reasons discussed above, I certify this proposed 
regulation:
    (1) Is not a ``significant regulatory action'' under Executive 
Order 12866,
    (2) Would not affect intrastate aviation in Alaska, and
    (3) Would not have a significant economic impact, positive or 
negative, on a substantial number of small entities under the criteria 
of the Regulatory Flexibility Act.

List of Subjects in 14 CFR Part 39

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

The Proposed Amendment

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

PART 39--AIRWORTHINESS DIRECTIVES

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

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


Sec.  39.13  [Amended]

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

The Boeing Company: Docket No. FAA-2023-0657; Project Identifier AD-
2022-01351-T.

(a) Comments Due Date

    The FAA must receive comments on this airworthiness directive 
(AD) by May 25, 2023.

(b) Affected ADs

    None.

(c) Applicability

    This AD applies to all The Boeing Company Model 787-8, 787-9, 
and 787-10 airplanes, certificated in any category.

(d) Subject

    Air Transport Association (ATA) of America Code 38, Water/waste.

(e) Unsafe Condition

    This AD was prompted by reports of undetected water leaks from 
the faucet control module (FCM) migrating below the passenger floor 
in multiple lavatory locations during flight, and into the 
electronic equipment bay(s). The FAA is issuing this AD to address 
undetected water leaks, which could damage flight critical 
equipment. The unsafe condition, if not addressed, could result in 
loss of multiple line replaceable units (LRUs) and subsequent loss 
of continued safe flight and landing.

(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 B787-81205-SB250290-00 RB, Issue 001, 
dated November 1, 2022, do all applicable actions identified in, and 
in accordance with, the Accomplishment Instructions of Boeing Alert 
Requirements Bulletin B787-81205-SB250290-00 RB, Issue 001, dated 
November 1, 2022.
    Note 1 to paragraph (g): Guidance for accomplishing the actions 
required by this AD can be found in Boeing Alert Service Bulletin 
B787-81205-SB250290-00, Issue 001, dated November 1, 2022, which is 
referred to in Boeing Alert Requirements Bulletin B787-81205-
SB250290-00, Issue 001, dated November 1, 2022.

(h) Exceptions to Service Information Specifications

    Where the Compliance Time column of the table in the 
``Compliance'' paragraph of Boeing Alert Requirements Bulletin B787-
81205-SB250290-00 RB, Issue 001, dated November 1, 2022, uses the 
phrase ``the Issue 001 date of the Requirements Bulletin B787-

[[Page 21123]]

81205-SB250290-00 RB,'' this AD requires using ``the effective date 
of this AD.''

(i) 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 (j) 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.

(j) 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: 206-231-3986; email: [email protected].

(k) Material Incorporated by Reference

    (1) The Director of the Federal Register approved the 
incorporation by reference (IBR) of the service information listed 
in this paragraph under 5 U.S.C. 552(a) and 1 CFR part 51.
    (2) You must use this service information as applicable to do 
the actions required by this AD, unless the AD specifies otherwise.
    (i) Boeing Alert Requirements Bulletin B787-81205-SB250290-00 
RB, Issue 001, dated November 1, 2022.
    (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; website 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 March 24, 2023.
Christina Underwood,
Acting Director, Compliance & Airworthiness Division, Aircraft 
Certification Service.
[FR Doc. 2023-07368 Filed 4-7-23; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE 4910-13-P
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