Airworthiness Directives; The Boeing Company Airplanes, 20555-20558 [2024-06130]

Download as PDF Federal Register / Vol. 89, No. 58 / Monday, March 25, 2024 / Proposed Rules (a) Comments Due Date The FAA must receive comments on this airworthiness directive (AD) by May 9, 2024. (b) Affected ADs None. (c) Applicability This AD applies to General Electric Company (GE) Model GEnx–1B64/P1, GEnx– 1B64/P2, GEnx–1B67, GEnx–1B67/P1, GEnx– 1B67/P2, GEnx–1B70, GEnx–1B70/75/P1, GEnx–1B70/75/P2, GEnx–1B70/P1, GEnx– 1B70/P2, GEnx–1B70C/P1, GEnx–1B70C/P2, GEnx–1B74/75/P1, GEnx–1B74/75/P2, GEnx–1B76/P2, GEnx–1B76A/P2, GEnx– 2B67, GEnx–2B67B, and GEnx–2B67/P engines with an installed: (1) Stages 6–10 compressor rotor spool (stages 6–10 spool) having a part number (P/ N) and serial number (S/N) listed in paragraph 4, Appendix—A, Table 1 of GE GEnx–1B Service Bulletin 72–0525, R00, dated October 4, 2023 (GEnx–1B SB 72–0525, R00); or (2) Stages 6–10 spool having a P/N and S/ N listed in paragraph 4, Appendix—A, Table 1 of GE GEnx–2B Service Bulletin 72–0460, R00, dated October 4, 2023 (GEnx–2B SB 72– 0460, R00). (d) Subject Joint Aircraft System Component (JASC) Code 7230, Turbine Engine Compressor Section. khammond on DSKJM1Z7X2PROD with PROPOSALS (e) Unsafe Condition This AD was prompted by a manufacturer evaluation which determined that a lower life limit is necessary for certain stages 6–10 spools than that allowed in the engine shop manual. The FAA is issuing this AD to prevent fracture and potential uncontained failure of the stages 6–10 spools. The unsafe condition, if not addressed, could result in uncontained debris release, damage to the engine, and damage to the aircraft. (3) If during any inspection required by paragraph (g)(2) of this AD, any stages 6–10 spool is found to have a previously accomplished blend repair that is not within the allowable limits, before further flight, remove the stages 6–10 spool from service and replace with a part eligible for installation in accordance with the Accomplishment Instructions, paragraph 3.B.(2)(a)1 or 3.B.(2)(b)1 of GEnx–1B SB 72– 0525, R00 or GEnx–2B SB 72–0460, R00, as applicable. (h) Definition (1) For the purpose of this AD, a ‘‘piecepart exposure’’ is when the stages 6–10 spool is disassembled from the high-pressure compressor rotor assembly. (2) For the purpose of this AD, a ‘‘part eligible for installation’’ is a stages 6–10 spool that does not have a P/N and S/N identified in paragraph 4, Appendix—A, Table 1 of GEnx–1B 72–0525, R00 or GEnx– 2B 72–0460, R00. (i) Alternative Methods of Compliance (AMOCs) (1) The Manager, AIR–520 Continued Operational Safety Branch, FAA, has the authority to approve AMOCs for this AD, if requested using the procedures found in 14 CFR 39.19. In accordance with 14 CFR 39.19, send your request to your principal inspector or local Flight Standards District Office, as appropriate. If sending information directly to the manager of the AIR–520 Continued Operational Safety Branch, send it to the attention of the person identified in paragraph (j) of this AD and email to: ANEAD-AMOC@faa.gov. (2) Before using any approved AMOC, notify your appropriate principal inspector, or lacking a principal inspector, the manager of the local flight standards district office/ certificate holding district office. (f) Compliance Comply with this AD within the compliance times specified, unless already done. (j) Related Information For more information about this AD, contact Alexei Marqueen, Aviation Safety Engineer, FAA, 2200 South 216th Street, Des Moines, WA 98198; phone: (781) 238–7178; email: alexei.t.marqueen@faa.gov. (g) Required Actions At the next piece-part exposure after the effective date of this AD or before the affected stages 6–10 spool reaches the cyclic removal threshold specified in paragraph 4., Appendix—A, Table 1 of GEnx–1B 72–0525, R00 or GEnx–2B SB 72–0460, R00, as applicable, do the following actions: (1) Inspect the stages 6–10 spool for previously accomplished blend repairs in accordance with the Accomplishment Instructions, paragraph 3.B.(1) of GEnx–1B SB 72–0525, R00 or GEnx–2B SB 72–0460, R00, as applicable. (2) If during any inspection required by paragraph (g)(1) of this AD, any stages 6–10 spool is found to have a previously accomplished blend repair, before further flight, inspect the blend repair for compliance with the allowable limits in accordance with the Accomplishment Instructions, paragraph 3.B.(2) of GEnx–1B SB 72–0525, R00 or GEnx–2B SB 72–0460, R00, as applicable. (l) 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) General Electric Company (GE) GEnx– 1B Service Bulletin 72–0525, R00, dated October 4, 2023. (ii) GE GEnx–2B Service Bulletin 72–0460, R00, dated October 4, 2023. (4) You may view this service information at FAA, Airworthiness Products Section, Operational Safety Branch, 1200 District Avenue, Burlington, MA 01803. For information on the availability of this material at the FAA, call (817) 222–5110. (5) You may view this material at the National Archives and Records Administration (NARA). For information on the availability of this material at NARA, VerDate Sep<11>2014 16:13 Mar 22, 2024 Jkt 262001 PO 00000 Frm 00005 Fmt 4702 Sfmt 4702 20555 visit www.archives.gov/federal-register/cfr/ ibr-locations or email fr.inspection@nara.gov. Issued on March 15, 2024. Victor Wicklund, Deputy Director, Compliance & Airworthiness Division, Aircraft Certification Service. [FR Doc. 2024–05995 Filed 3–22–24; 8:45 am] BILLING CODE 4910–13–P DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION Federal Aviation Administration 14 CFR Part 39 [Docket No. FAA–2024–0761; Project Identifier AD–2023–01256–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 certain The Boeing Company Model 777 airplanes. This proposed AD was prompted by a determination that the nitrogen enriched air distribution system (NEADS) cover plate assembly attached to a certain vent stringer in the center wing tank was installed without a designed electrical bond. This proposed AD would require installing electrical bonding and grounding, installing the cover plate assembly with new fasteners, and revising the existing maintenance or inspection program, as applicable, to incorporate new airworthiness limitations. 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 9, 2024. 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–2024–0761; or in person at SUMMARY: E:\FR\FM\25MRP1.SGM 25MRP1 20556 Federal Register / Vol. 89, No. 58 / Monday, March 25, 2024 / Proposed Rules 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, contact Boeing Commercial Airplanes, Attention: Contractual & Data Services (C&DS), 2600 Westminster Boulevard, 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 Street 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–2024–0761. FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Anthony Decaro, Aviation Safety Engineer, FAA, 2200 South 216th Street, Des Moines, WA 98198; telephone: 562– 627–5374; email: Anthony.D.Decaro@ faa.gov. SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: khammond on DSKJM1Z7X2PROD with PROPOSALS 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–2024–0761; Project Identifier AD– 2023–01256–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. VerDate Sep<11>2014 16:13 Mar 22, 2024 Jkt 262001 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 Anthony Decaro, Aviation Safety Engineer, FAA, 2200 South 216th Street, Des Moines, WA 98198; telephone: 562–627–5374; email: Anthony.D.Decaro@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. Related Service Information Under 1 CFR Part 51 The FAA reviewed Boeing Alert Requirements Bulletin 777–47A0007 RB, dated November 21, 2023. This service information specifies procedures for removing the cover plate assembly and its attached float valve assembly, installing electrical bonding and grounding, measuring the bonding resistance between the bolt heads/cover plate assembly/float valve assembly mounting flange and the vent stringer No. 15 and between the nuts and the cover plate assembly, and installing the cover plate assembly with new fasteners. The service information also requires revising the operator’s maintenance or inspection program, as applicable, by incorporating new airworthiness limitations (AWLs). 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. Background Proposed AD Requirements in This NPRM The FAA has received a report indicating a production audit by the design approval holder found that the design of the NEADS cover plate assembly did not comply with the requirements for nitrogen generation system certification (14 CFR 25.981). It was discovered that the cover plate assembly was installed without a designed electrical bond for electrostatic dissipation. As a result, Boeing has changed the cover plate assembly installation procedure to include a new electrical bond between the cover plate assembly and vent stringer No. 15. In addition, new stainless steel alloy fasteners are used to attach the cover plate assembly to vent stringer No. 15. The accumulation of electrostatic charge in the cover plate assembly and the float valve assembly, which is attached to the cover plate assembly, could lead to electrostatic discharge to the surrounding structure. This condition, if not addressed, could result in an ignition source inside the fuel tank and subsequent fire or explosion. 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. For information on the procedures and compliance times, see this service information at regulations.gov under Docket No. FAA–2024–0761. This proposed AD would require revisions to certain operator maintenance documents to include new actions (e.g., inspections) and Critical Design Configuration Control Limitations (CDCCLs). Compliance with these actions and CDCCLs is required by 14 CFR 91.403(c). For airplanes that have been previously modified, altered, or repaired in the areas addressed by this proposed AD, the operator may not be able to accomplish the actions described in the revisions. In this situation, to comply with 14 CFR 91.403(c), the operator must request approval for an alternative method of compliance according to paragraph (j) of this proposed AD. FAA’s Determination Costs of Compliance 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. The FAA estimates that this AD, if adopted as proposed, would affect 292 airplanes of U.S. registry. The FAA estimates the following costs to comply with this proposed AD: PO 00000 Frm 00006 Fmt 4702 Sfmt 4702 E:\FR\FM\25MRP1.SGM 25MRP1 Federal Register / Vol. 89, No. 58 / Monday, March 25, 2024 / Proposed Rules 20557 ESTIMATED COSTS Action Labor cost Electrical bond installation ............... 27 work-hours × $85 per hour = $2,295 ....................... The FAA has determined that revising the existing maintenance or inspection program takes an average of 90 workhours per operator, although the agency recognizes that this number may vary from operator to operator. Since operators incorporate maintenance or inspection program changes for their affected fleet(s), the FAA has determined that a per-operator estimate is more accurate than a per-airplane estimate. Therefore, the agency estimates the average total cost per operator to be $7,650 (90 work-hours × $85 per work-hour). khammond on DSKJM1Z7X2PROD with PROPOSALS 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 VerDate Sep<11>2014 16:13 Mar 22, 2024 Jkt 262001 Parts cost 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 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: ■ The Boeing Company: Docket No. FAA– 2024–0761; Project Identifier AD–2023– 01256–T. (a) Comments Due Date The FAA must receive comments on this airworthiness directive (AD) by May 9, 2024. (b) Affected ADs None. (c) Applicability This AD applies to The Boeing Company Model 777–200, –200LR, –300, –300ER, and 777F series airplanes, certificated in any category, as identified in Boeing Alert Requirements Bulletin 777–47A0007 RB, dated November 21, 2023. (d) Subject Air Transport Association (ATA) of America Code 28, Fuel. (e) Unsafe Condition This AD was prompted by a determination that the nitrogen enriched air distribution system (NEADS) cover plate assembly attached to vent stringer No. 15 in the center wing tank was installed without a designed electrical bond. The FAA is issuing this AD to address the accumulation of electrostatic charge in the cover plate assembly and float valve assembly, which could lead to electrostatic discharge to the surrounding structure. The unsafe condition, if not addressed, could result in result in an ignition source inside the fuel tank and subsequent fire or explosion. PO 00000 Frm 00007 Fmt 4702 Sfmt 4702 $93 Cost per product $2,388 Cost on U.S. operators $697,296 (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 777–47A0007 RB, dated November 21, 2023, do all applicable actions identified in, and in accordance with, the Accomplishment Instructions of Boeing Alert Requirements Bulletin 777–47A0007 RB, dated November 21, 2023. Note 1 to paragraph (g): Guidance for accomplishing the actions required by this AD can be found in Boeing Alert Service Bulletin 777–47A0007, dated November 21, 2023, which is referred to in Boeing Alert Requirements Bulletin 777–47A0007 RB, dated November 21, 2023. (h) Exceptions to Service Information Specifications (1) Where the ‘‘Effectivity’’ paragraph and Compliance Time columns of the tables in the ‘‘Compliance’’ paragraph of Boeing Alert Requirements Bulletin 777–47A0007 RB, dated November 21, 2023, uses the phrase ‘‘the Original Issue date of Requirements Bulletin 777–47A0007 RB,’’ this AD requires using the effective date of this AD. (2) Where the Compliance Time for ACTION 3: Incorporate Maintenance Planning Document (MPD), in the ‘‘Compliance’’ paragraph of Boeing Alert Requirements Bulletin 777–47A0007 RB, dated November 21, 2023, is ‘‘Before further flight after accomplishing ACTION 1 and ACTION 2,’’ this AD requires incorporating the MPD within 60 days after the effective date of this AD. (i) No Alternative Actions, Intervals, or Critical Design Configuration Control Limitations (CDCCLs) After the existing maintenance or inspection program has been revised as required by paragraph (g) of this AD, no alternative actions (e.g., inspections), intervals, or CDCCLs may be used unless the actions, intervals, and CDCCLs are approved as an alternative method of compliance (AMOC) in accordance with the procedures specified in paragraph (j) of this AD. (j) Alternative Methods of Compliance (AMOCs) (1) The Manager, AIR–520, Continued Operational Safety 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, E:\FR\FM\25MRP1.SGM 25MRP1 20558 Federal Register / Vol. 89, No. 58 / Monday, March 25, 2024 / Proposed Rules send it to the attention of the person identified in paragraph (k) 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, AIR–520, Continued Operational Safety 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. (k) Related Information (1) For more information about this AD, contact Anthony Decaro, Aviation Safety Engineer, FAA, 2200 South 216th Street, Des Moines, WA 98198; telephone: 562–627– 5374; email: Anthony.D.Decaro@faa.gov. (2) Service information identified in this AD that is not incorporated by reference is available at the address specified in paragraph (l)(3) of this AD. khammond on DSKJM1Z7X2PROD with PROPOSALS (l) 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 777–47A0007 RB, dated November 21, 2023. (ii) [Reserved] (3) For service information, contact Boeing Commercial Airplanes, Attention: Contractual & Data Services (C&DS), 2600 Westminster Boulevard, MC 110–SK57, Seal Beach, CA 90740–5600; telephone 562–797– 1717; website myboeingfleet.com. (4) You may view this material at the FAA, Airworthiness Products Section, Operational Safety Branch, 2200 South 216th Street, Des Moines, WA. For information on the availability of this material at the FAA, call 206–231–3195. (5) You may view this material at the National Archives and Records Administration (NARA). For information on the availability of this material at NARA, visit www.archives.gov/federal-register/cfr/ ibr-locations or email fr.inspection@nara.gov. Issued on March 19, 2024. Victor Wicklund, Deputy Director, Compliance & Airworthiness Division, Aircraft Certification Service. [FR Doc. 2024–06130 Filed 3–22–24; 8:45 am] BILLING CODE 4910–13–P VerDate Sep<11>2014 16:13 Mar 22, 2024 Jkt 262001 DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION Federal Aviation Administration 14 CFR Part 39 [Docket No. FAA–2024–0759; Project Identifier AD–2023–01040–T] RIN 2120–AA64 Airworthiness Directives; AVOX Systems Inc. (Formerly Scott Aviation) Oxygen Cylinder and Valve Assemblies; and Oxygen Valve Assemblies Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), DOT. ACTION: Notice of proposed rulemaking (NPRM). AGENCY: The FAA proposes to supersede Airworthiness Directive (AD) 2023–13–11, which applies to certain AVOX Systems Inc. (formerly Scott Aviation) oxygen cylinder and valve assemblies; and oxygen valve assemblies; installed on but not limited to various transport airplanes. AD 2023– 13–11 requires an inspection of the oxygen valve assemblies, and oxygen cylinder and valve assemblies, to determine the serial number of the valve, cylinder, and entire assembly; and for certain assemblies and parts, a detailed inspection for correct spacing of the gap between the bottom of the packing retainer and top of the valve body on the assemblies and replacement of assemblies having unacceptable gaps. AD 2023–13–11 also limits the installation of affected parts under certain conditions and requires reporting inspection results and returning certain assemblies to the manufacturer. Since the FAA issued AD 2023–13–11, the manufacturer identified additional assemblies and parts subject to the unsafe condition. This proposed AD would continue to require the actions specified in AD 2023–13–11 and require similar actions for those additional assemblies and parts. The FAA is proposing this AD to address the unsafe condition on these products. SUMMARY: The FAA must receive comments on this proposed AD by May 9, 2024. 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 DATES: PO 00000 Frm 00008 Fmt 4702 Sfmt 4702 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–2024–0759; 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 AVOX Systems Inc., 225 Erie Street, Lancaster, NY 14086; telephone 716–683–5100; website safranaerosystems.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: Gabriel Kim, Aviation Safety Engineer, FAA, 1600 Stewart Avenue, Suite 410, Westbury, NY 11590; telephone 516– 228–7343; 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–2024–0759; Project Identifier AD– 2023–01040–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 proposed AD. Confidential Business Information CBI is commercial or financial information that is both customarily and E:\FR\FM\25MRP1.SGM 25MRP1

Agencies

[Federal Register Volume 89, Number 58 (Monday, March 25, 2024)]
[Proposed Rules]
[Pages 20555-20558]
From the Federal Register Online via the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]
[FR Doc No: 2024-06130]


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

DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION

Federal Aviation Administration

14 CFR Part 39

[Docket No. FAA-2024-0761; Project Identifier AD-2023-01256-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 certain The Boeing Company Model 777 airplanes. This proposed AD 
was prompted by a determination that the nitrogen enriched air 
distribution system (NEADS) cover plate assembly attached to a certain 
vent stringer in the center wing tank was installed without a designed 
electrical bond. This proposed AD would require installing electrical 
bonding and grounding, installing the cover plate assembly with new 
fasteners, and revising the existing maintenance or inspection program, 
as applicable, to incorporate new airworthiness limitations. 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 9, 
2024.

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-2024-0761; or in person at

[[Page 20556]]

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, contact Boeing Commercial 
Airplanes, Attention: Contractual & Data Services (C&DS), 2600 
Westminster Boulevard, 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 Street 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-2024-0761.

FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Anthony Decaro, Aviation Safety 
Engineer, FAA, 2200 South 216th Street, Des Moines, WA 98198; 
telephone: 562-627-5374; 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-2024-0761; Project Identifier 
AD-2023-01256-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 
Anthony Decaro, Aviation Safety Engineer, FAA, 2200 South 216th Street, 
Des Moines, WA 98198; telephone: 562-627-5374; 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 has received a report indicating a production audit by the 
design approval holder found that the design of the NEADS cover plate 
assembly did not comply with the requirements for nitrogen generation 
system certification (14 CFR 25.981). It was discovered that the cover 
plate assembly was installed without a designed electrical bond for 
electrostatic dissipation. As a result, Boeing has changed the cover 
plate assembly installation procedure to include a new electrical bond 
between the cover plate assembly and vent stringer No. 15. In addition, 
new stainless steel alloy fasteners are used to attach the cover plate 
assembly to vent stringer No. 15. The accumulation of electrostatic 
charge in the cover plate assembly and the float valve assembly, which 
is attached to the cover plate assembly, could lead to electrostatic 
discharge to the surrounding structure. This condition, if not 
addressed, could result in an ignition source inside the fuel tank and 
subsequent fire or explosion.

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 777-47A0007 RB, 
dated November 21, 2023. This service information specifies procedures 
for removing the cover plate assembly and its attached float valve 
assembly, installing electrical bonding and grounding, measuring the 
bonding resistance between the bolt heads/cover plate assembly/float 
valve assembly mounting flange and the vent stringer No. 15 and between 
the nuts and the cover plate assembly, and installing the cover plate 
assembly with new fasteners. The service information also requires 
revising the operator's maintenance or inspection program, as 
applicable, by incorporating new airworthiness limitations (AWLs). 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. For information on the procedures and compliance times, 
see this service information at regulations.gov under Docket No. FAA-
2024-0761.
    This proposed AD would require revisions to certain operator 
maintenance documents to include new actions (e.g., inspections) and 
Critical Design Configuration Control Limitations (CDCCLs). Compliance 
with these actions and CDCCLs is required by 14 CFR 91.403(c). For 
airplanes that have been previously modified, altered, or repaired in 
the areas addressed by this proposed AD, the operator may not be able 
to accomplish the actions described in the revisions. In this 
situation, to comply with 14 CFR 91.403(c), the operator must request 
approval for an alternative method of compliance according to paragraph 
(j) of this proposed AD.

Costs of Compliance

    The FAA estimates that this AD, if adopted as proposed, would 
affect 292 airplanes of U.S. registry. The FAA estimates the following 
costs to comply with this proposed AD:

[[Page 20557]]



                                                 Estimated Costs
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                                     Cost per      Cost on U.S.
                Action                         Labor cost           Parts cost        product        operators
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Electrical bond installation..........  27 work-hours x $85 per              $93          $2,388        $697,296
                                         hour = $2,295.
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

    The FAA has determined that revising the existing maintenance or 
inspection program takes an average of 90 work-hours per operator, 
although the agency recognizes that this number may vary from operator 
to operator. Since operators incorporate maintenance or inspection 
program changes for their affected fleet(s), the FAA has determined 
that a per-operator estimate is more accurate than a per-airplane 
estimate. Therefore, the agency estimates the average total cost per 
operator to be $7,650 (90 work-hours x $85 per work-hour).

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-2024-0761; Project Identifier AD-
2023-01256-T.

(a) Comments Due Date

    The FAA must receive comments on this airworthiness directive 
(AD) by May 9, 2024.

(b) Affected ADs

    None.

(c) Applicability

    This AD applies to The Boeing Company Model 777-200, -200LR, -
300, -300ER, and 777F series airplanes, certificated in any 
category, as identified in Boeing Alert Requirements Bulletin 777-
47A0007 RB, dated November 21, 2023.

(d) Subject

    Air Transport Association (ATA) of America Code 28, Fuel.

(e) Unsafe Condition

    This AD was prompted by a determination that the nitrogen 
enriched air distribution system (NEADS) cover plate assembly 
attached to vent stringer No. 15 in the center wing tank was 
installed without a designed electrical bond. The FAA is issuing 
this AD to address the accumulation of electrostatic charge in the 
cover plate assembly and float valve assembly, which could lead to 
electrostatic discharge to the surrounding structure. The unsafe 
condition, if not addressed, could result in result in an ignition 
source inside the fuel tank and subsequent fire or explosion.

(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 777-47A0007 RB, dated November 21, 2023, 
do all applicable actions identified in, and in accordance with, the 
Accomplishment Instructions of Boeing Alert Requirements Bulletin 
777-47A0007 RB, dated November 21, 2023.
    Note 1 to paragraph (g): Guidance for accomplishing the actions 
required by this AD can be found in Boeing Alert Service Bulletin 
777-47A0007, dated November 21, 2023, which is referred to in Boeing 
Alert Requirements Bulletin 777-47A0007 RB, dated November 21, 2023.

(h) Exceptions to Service Information Specifications

    (1) Where the ``Effectivity'' paragraph and Compliance Time 
columns of the tables in the ``Compliance'' paragraph of Boeing 
Alert Requirements Bulletin 777-47A0007 RB, dated November 21, 2023, 
uses the phrase ``the Original Issue date of Requirements Bulletin 
777-47A0007 RB,'' this AD requires using the effective date of this 
AD.
    (2) Where the Compliance Time for ACTION 3: Incorporate 
Maintenance Planning Document (MPD), in the ``Compliance'' paragraph 
of Boeing Alert Requirements Bulletin 777-47A0007 RB, dated November 
21, 2023, is ``Before further flight after accomplishing ACTION 1 
and ACTION 2,'' this AD requires incorporating the MPD within 60 
days after the effective date of this AD.

(i) No Alternative Actions, Intervals, or Critical Design Configuration 
Control Limitations (CDCCLs)

    After the existing maintenance or inspection program has been 
revised as required by paragraph (g) of this AD, no alternative 
actions (e.g., inspections), intervals, or CDCCLs may be used unless 
the actions, intervals, and CDCCLs are approved as an alternative 
method of compliance (AMOC) in accordance with the procedures 
specified in paragraph (j) of this AD.

(j) Alternative Methods of Compliance (AMOCs)

    (1) The Manager, AIR-520, Continued Operational Safety 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,

[[Page 20558]]

send it to the attention of the person identified in paragraph (k) 
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, AIR-
520, Continued Operational Safety 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.

(k) Related Information

    (1) For more information about this AD, contact Anthony Decaro, 
Aviation Safety Engineer, FAA, 2200 South 216th Street, Des Moines, 
WA 98198; telephone: 562-627-5374; email: [email protected].
    (2) Service information identified in this AD that is not 
incorporated by reference is available at the address specified in 
paragraph (l)(3) of this AD.

(l) 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 777-47A0007 RB, dated 
November 21, 2023.
    (ii) [Reserved]
    (3) For service information, contact Boeing Commercial 
Airplanes, Attention: Contractual & Data Services (C&DS), 2600 
Westminster Boulevard, MC 110-SK57, Seal Beach, CA 90740-5600; 
telephone 562-797-1717; website myboeingfleet.com.
    (4) You may view this material at the FAA, Airworthiness 
Products Section, Operational Safety Branch, 2200 South 216th 
Street, Des Moines, WA. For information on the availability of this 
material at the FAA, call 206-231-3195.
    (5) You may view this material at the National Archives and 
Records Administration (NARA). For information on the availability 
of this material at NARA, visit www.archives.gov/federal-register/cfr/ibr-locations or email [email protected].

    Issued on March 19, 2024.
Victor Wicklund,
Deputy Director, Compliance & Airworthiness Division, Aircraft 
Certification Service.
[FR Doc. 2024-06130 Filed 3-22-24; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE 4910-13-P
This site is protected by reCAPTCHA and the Google Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply.