[Federal Register: December 27, 2006 (Volume 71, Number 248)]
[Rules and Regulations]
[Page 77586-77589]
From the Federal Register Online via GPO Access [wais.access.gpo.gov]
[DOCID:fr27de06-4]
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DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION
Federal Aviation Administration
14 CFR Part 39
[Docket No. FAA-2006-26675; Directorate Identifier 2006-NM-203-AD;
Amendment 39-14864; AD 2006-26-06]
RIN 2120-AA64
Airworthiness Directives; Boeing Model 777-200 and -300 Series
Airplanes Equipped with Rolls-Royce Engines
AGENCY: Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), Department of
Transportation (DOT).
ACTION: Final rule; request for comments.
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SUMMARY: The FAA is adopting a new airworthiness directive (AD) for
certain Boeing Model 777-200 and -300 series airplanes equipped with
Rolls-Royce engines. This AD requires repetitive inspections to detect
cracks of the outer V-blades of the thrust reverser, and
[[Page 77587]]
corrective action if necessary. This AD also provides for optional
terminating action for the repetitive inspections. This AD results from
reports of cracked outer V-blades in the thrust reversers. We are
issuing this AD to prevent separation of a thrust reverser from the
airplane during normal reverse thrust or during a refused takeoff,
which could result in impact damage to other airplane areas. If a
thrust reverser separates from the airplane during a refused takeoff,
the engine could produce forward thrust, resulting in unexpected thrust
asymmetry and a possible runway excursion.
DATES: This AD becomes effective January 11, 2007.
The Director of the Federal Register approved the incorporation by
reference of certain publications listed in the AD as of January 11,
2007.
We must receive comments on this AD by February 26, 2007.
ADDRESSES: Use one of the following addresses to submit comments on
this AD.
DOT Docket Web site: Go to http://dms.dot.gov and follow
the instructions for sending your comments electronically.
Government-wide rulemaking Web site: Go to http://www.regulations.gov
and follow the instructions for sending your
comments electronically.
Mail: Docket Management Facility; U.S. Department of
Transportation, 400 Seventh Street SW., Nassif Building, Room PL-401,
Washington, DC 20590.
Fax: (202) 493-2251.
Hand Delivery: Room PL-401 on the plaza level of the
Nassif Building, 400 Seventh Street, SW., Washington, DC, between 9
a.m. and 5 p.m., Monday through Friday, except Federal holidays.
Contact Boeing Commercial Airplanes, P.O. Box 3707, Seattle,
Washington 98124-2207, for service information identified in this AD.
FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Gary Oltman, Aerospace Engineer,
Airframe Branch, ANM-120S, FAA, Seattle Aircraft Certification Office,
1601 Lind Avenue, SW., Renton, Washington 98057-3356; telephone (425)
917-6443; fax (425) 917-6590.
SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION:
Discussion
We have received reports of cracked outer V-blades in the Rolls-
Royce engine thrust reversers on Boeing Model 777-200 and -300 series
airplanes. The cracks were found in the top and bottom ends of the V-
blade. The outer V-blade engages the aft end of the engine fan case to
transmit fore and aft loads from the thrust reversers. Initial analysis
of the V-blade did not include bending loads, and consequently the
fatigue margins were not sufficient. A thrust reverser that separates
from the airplane during normal reverse thrust or refused takeoff can
damage other airplane areas. If a thrust reverser separates from the
airplane during a refused takeoff, the engine could produce forward
thrust, resulting in unexpected thrust asymmetry and a possible runway
excursion.
Relevant Service Information
We have reviewed Boeing Special Attention Service Bulletin 777-78-
0064, Revision 1, dated November 30, 2006. The service bulletin
describes procedures for doing repetitive detailed inspections to
detect cracks in the outer V-blade of the thrust reverser, replacing
cracked V-blades with serviceable parts, and sending a report of the
inspection results to Boeing. The compliance time for the initial
inspection ranges from 250 to 6,000 flight cycles after the effective
date of the AD, depending on the number of flight cycles on the V-
blade, with repetitive intervals not to exceed 2,000 flight cycles from
the last detailed inspection.
We have also reviewed Boeing Special Attention Service Bulletin
777-78-0061, dated July 6, 2006, which describes procedures for doing a
special detailed inspection to detect cracks in the outer V-blade of
the thrust reverser in addition to a special detailed (eddy current or
fluorescent penetrant) inspection to detect cracks in the fay surface
area of the lower chord of the torque box where the outer V-blade
attaches. If a crack is found in the outer V-blade, a new configuration
V-blade is installed. If no crack is found, the V-blade is changed and
installed with new support brackets at the top and bottom ends. The
service bulletin also specifies contacting Boeing for repair
instructions for cracks found in the torque box lower chord.
Accomplishment of the actions specified in Special Attention
Service Bulletin 777-78-0061 eliminates the need for the repetitive
inspections of Special Attention Service Bulletin 777-78-0064.
FAA's Determination and Requirements of This AD
The unsafe condition described previously is likely to exist or
develop on other airplanes of the same type design. For this reason, we
are issuing this AD to prevent separation of a thrust reverser from the
airplane during normal reverse thrust or during a refused takeoff,
which could result in impact damage to other airplane areas. If a
thrust reverser separates from the airplane during a refused takeoff,
the engine could produce forward thrust, resulting in unexpected thrust
asymmetry and a possible runway excursion. This AD requires
accomplishing the actions specified in Boeing Special Attention Service
Bulletin 777-78-0064 described previously. This AD also provides for an
optional terminating action for the repetitive inspections.
Difference Between the AD and Service Information
Boeing Special Attention Service Bulletin 777-78-0061 specifies to
contact the manufacturer for instructions on how to repair certain
conditions, but this AD requires repairing those conditions, if
accomplished, in one of the following ways:
Using a method that we approve; or
Using data that meet the certification basis of the
airplane, and that have been approved by an Authorized Representative
for the Boeing Commercial Airplanes Delegation Option Authorization
Organization whom we have authorized to approve repair methods.
Interim Action
We consider this AD interim action. We are considering mandating
the optional terminating action specified in Boeing Special Attention
Service Bulletin 777-78-0061, which terminates the repetitive
inspections required by this AD. However, the planned compliance time
for this terminating action would allow enough time to provide notice
and opportunity for prior public comment on the merits of the actions.
FAA's Determination of the Effective Date
Since an unsafe condition exists that requires the immediate
adoption of this AD, we have found that notice and opportunity for
public comment before issuing this AD are impracticable, and that good
cause exists to make this AD effective in less than 30 days.
Comments Invited
This AD is a final rule that involves requirements that affect
flight safety and was not preceded by notice and an opportunity for
public comment; however, we invite you to submit any relevant written
data, views, or arguments regarding this AD. Send your comments to an
address listed in the ADDRESSES section. Include ``Docket No. FAA-2006-
26675; Directorate Identifier 2006-NM-203-AD'' at the beginning of
[[Page 77588]]
your comments. We specifically invite comments on the overall
regulatory, economic, environmental, and energy aspects of the AD that
might suggest a need to modify it.
We will post all comments we receive, without change, to http://dms.dot.gov
, including any personal information you provide. We will
also post a report summarizing each substantive verbal contact with FAA
personnel concerning this AD. Using the search function of that Web
site, anyone can find and read the comments in any of our dockets,
including the name of the individual who sent the comment (or signed
the comment on behalf of an association, business, labor union, etc.).
You may review the DOT's complete Privacy Act Statement in the Federal
Register published on April 11, 2000 (65 FR 19477-78), or you may visit
http://dms.dot.gov.
Examining the Docket
You may examine the AD docket on the Internet at http://dms.dot.gov
, or in person at the Docket Management Facility office
between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m., Monday through Friday, except Federal
holidays. The Docket Management Facility office (telephone (800) 647-
5227) is located on the plaza level of the Nassif Building at the DOT
street address stated in the ADDRESSES section. Comments will be
available in the AD docket shortly after the Docket Management System
receives them.
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.
We are 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
We have determined that this AD will not have federalism
implications under Executive Order 13132. This AD will not have a
substantial direct effect on the States, on the relationship between
the national government and the States, or on the distribution of power
and responsibilities among the various levels of government.
For the reasons discussed above, I certify that the regulation:
1. Is not a ``significant regulatory action'' under Executive Order
12866;
2. Is not a ``significant rule'' under the DOT Regulatory Policies
and Procedures (44 FR 11034, February 26, 1979); and
3. Will not have a significant economic impact, positive or
negative, on a substantial number of small entities under the criteria
of the Regulatory Flexibility Act.
We prepared a regulatory evaluation of the estimated costs to
comply with this AD and placed it in the AD docket. See the ADDRESSES
section for a location to examine the regulatory evaluation.
List of Subjects in 14 CFR Part 39
Air transportation, Aircraft, Aviation safety, Incorporation by
reference, Safety.
Adoption of the Amendment
0
Accordingly, under the authority delegated to me by the Administrator,
the FAA amends 14 CFR part 39 as follows:
PART 39--AIRWORTHINESS DIRECTIVES
0
1. The authority citation for part 39 continues to read as follows:
Authority: 49 U.S.C. 106(g), 40113, 44701.
Sec. 39.13 [Amended]
0
2. The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) amends Sec. 39.13 by
adding the following new airworthiness directive (AD):
2006-26-06 Boeing: Amendment 39-14864. Docket No. FAA-2006-26675;
Directorate Identifier 2006-NM-203-AD.
Effective Date
(a) This AD becomes effective January 11, 2007.
Affected ADs
(b) None.
Applicability
(c) This AD applies to Boeing Model 777-200 and -300 series
airplanes, certificated in any category, equipped with Rolls-Royce
engines; as identified in Boeing Special Attention Service Bulletin
777-78-0064, Revision 1, dated November 30, 2006.
Unsafe Condition
(d) This AD results from reports of cracked outer V-blades in
the thrust reversers. We are issuing this AD to prevent separation
of a thrust reverser from the airplane during normal reverse thrust
or during a refused takeoff, which could result in impact damage to
other airplane areas. If a thrust reverser separates from the
airplane during a refused takeoff, the engine could produce forward
thrust, resulting in unexpected thrust asymmetry and a possible
runway excursion.
Compliance
(e) You are responsible for having the actions required by this
AD performed within the compliance times specified, unless the
actions have already been done.
Repetitive Inspections
(f) Do the detailed inspections to detect cracks in the outer V-
blade of the thrust reversers. Do the inspections in accordance with
the Accomplishment Instructions of Boeing Special Attention Service
Bulletin 777-78-0064, Revision 1, dated November 30, 2006. Do the
inspections at the applicable times specified in paragraph 1.E. of
the service bulletin; except, where the service bulletin specifies
an initial compliance time after the date on the service bulletin,
this AD requires compliance within the specified time after the
effective date of this AD. Do applicable corrective actions before
further flight in accordance with the service bulletin or paragraph
(h) of this AD.
(g) Actions done before the effective date of this AD in
accordance with Boeing Special Attention Service Bulletin 777-78-
0064, dated August 7, 2006, are acceptable for compliance with the
requirements of paragraph (f) of this AD.
Report
(h) At the applicable time specified in paragraph (h)(1) or
(h)(2) of this AD, send a report of the findings (both positive and
negative) of each inspection required by paragraph (f) of this AD to
the Manager, Seattle Aircraft Certification Office (ACO), FAA. The
report must include the information specified in Appendix A of
Boeing Special Attention Service Bulletin 777-78-0064, Revision 1,
dated November 30, 2006. Under the provisions of the Paperwork
Reduction Act (44 U.S.C. 3501 et seq.), the Office of Management and
Budget (OMB) has approved the information collection requirements
contained in this AD and has assigned OMB Control Number 2120-0056.
(1) For all inspections done after the effective date of this
AD: Send the report within 10 days after the inspection.
(2) For any inspection done before the effective date of this
AD: Send the report within 10 days after the effective date of this
AD.
Optional Terminating Action
(i) Accomplishment of the applicable inspections and related
investigative/corrective actions, in accordance with the
Accomplishment Instructions of Boeing Special Attention Service
Bulletin 777-78-0061, dated July 6, 2006, terminates the
requirements of this AD; except, where the service bulletin
specifies to contact the manufacturer for appropriate action, repair
before further flight using a method approved in accordance with the
procedures specified in paragraph (j) of this AD.
[[Page 77589]]
Alternative Methods of Compliance (AMOCs)
(j)(1) The Manager, Seattle ACO, FAA, has the authority to
approve AMOCs for this AD, if requested in accordance with the
procedures found in 14 CFR 39.19.
(2) Before using any AMOC approved in accordance with Sec.
39.19 on any airplane to which the AMOC applies, notify the
appropriate principal inspector in the FAA Flight Standards
Certificate Holding District Office.
(3) An AMOC that provides an acceptable level of safety may be
used for any repair required by this AD, if it is approved by an
Authorized Representative for the Boeing Commercial Airplanes
Delegation Option Authorization Organization who has been authorized
by the Manager, Seattle ACO, to make those findings. For a repair
method to be approved, the repair must meet the certification basis
of the airplane.
Material Incorporated by Reference
(k) You must use Boeing Special Attention Service Bulletin 777-
78-0064, Revision 1, dated November 30, 2006, to perform the actions
that are required by this AD, unless the AD specifies otherwise. If
the optional terminating action is accomplished, you must use Boeing
Special Attention Service Bulletin 777-78-0061, dated July 6, 2006,
to perform the optional terminating actions specified in this AD,
unless the AD specifies otherwise. The Director of the Federal
Register approved the incorporation by reference of these documents
in accordance with 5 U.S.C. 552(a) and 1 CFR part 51. Contact Boeing
Commercial Airplanes, P.O. Box 3707, Seattle, Washington 98124-2207,
for a copy of this service information. You may review copies at the
Docket Management Facility, U.S. Department of Transportation, 400
Seventh Street SW., Room PL-401, Nassif Building, Washington, DC; on
the Internet at http://dms.dot.gov; or at the National Archives and
Records Administration (NARA). For information on the availability
of this material at the NARA, call (202) 741-6030, or go to http://www.archives.gov/
[fxsp0]federal--register/[fxsp0]code--of--
federal[fxsp0]--regulations/[fxsp0]ibr--locations.html.
Issued in Renton, Washington, on December 14, 2006.
Stephen P. Boyd,
Acting Manager, Transport Airplane Directorate, Aircraft Certification
Service.
[FR Doc. E6-22040 Filed 12-26-06; 8:45 am]
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