Rule2022-00049
Airworthiness Directives; General Electric Company Turbofan Engines
Primary source
Metadata and text below are from the Federal Register, a public-domain U.S. government work. Always verify the official published version before relying on it for any legal matter.
Published
January 11, 2022
Effective
February 15, 2022
Issuing agencies
Transportation DepartmentFederal Aviation Administration
Abstract
The FAA is adopting a new airworthiness directive (AD) for certain General Electric Company (GE) GE90 model turbofan engines. This AD was prompted by two separate in-flight shutdowns (IFSDs) resulting from failure of the transfer gearbox (TGB) radial bevel gear (TGB radial gearshaft). This AD requires visual inspection of the TGB radial gearshaft and, depending on the results of the inspection, replacement of the TGB radial gearshaft. The FAA is issuing this AD to address the unsafe condition on these products.
Full Text
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<title>Federal Register, Volume 87 Issue 7 (Tuesday, January 11, 2022)</title>
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[Federal Register Volume 87, Number 7 (Tuesday, January 11, 2022)]
[Rules and Regulations]
[Pages 1343-1346]
From the Federal Register Online via the Government Publishing Office [<a href="http://www.gpo.gov">www.gpo.gov</a>]
[FR Doc No: 2022-00049]
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DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION
Federal Aviation Administration
14 CFR Part 39
[Docket No. FAA-2021-0567; Project Identifier AD-2021-00663-E;
Amendment 39-21865; AD 2021-26-06]
RIN 2120-AA64
Airworthiness Directives; General Electric Company Turbofan
Engines
AGENCY: Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), DOT.
ACTION: Final rule.
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SUMMARY: The FAA is adopting a new airworthiness directive (AD) for
certain General Electric Company (GE) GE90 model turbofan engines. This
AD was prompted by two separate in-flight shutdowns (IFSDs) resulting
from failure of the transfer gearbox (TGB) radial bevel gear (TGB
radial gearshaft). This AD requires visual inspection of the TGB radial
gearshaft and, depending on the results of the inspection, replacement
of the TGB radial gearshaft. The FAA is issuing this AD to address the
unsafe condition on these products.
DATES: This AD is effective February 15, 2022.
The Director of the Federal Register approved the incorporation by
reference of certain publications listed in this AD as of February 15,
2022.
ADDRESSES: For service information identified in this final rule,
contact General Electric Company, GE Aviation, Room 285, 1 Neumann Way,
Cincinnati, OH 45215; phone: (513) 552-3272; email:
<a href="/cdn-cgi/l/email-protection#bfdec9d6decbd6d0d191d9d3dadacbcccacfcfd0cdcbffd8da91dcd0d2"><span class="__cf_email__" data-cfemail="e786918e86938e8889c9818b82829394929797889593a78082c984888a">[email protected]</span></a>; website: <a href="https://www.ge.com">https://www.ge.com</a>. You may view
this service information at the 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. It is also available at <a href="https://www.regulations.gov">https://www.regulations.gov</a> by
searching for and locating Docket No. FAA-2021-0567.
Examining the AD Docket
You may examine the AD docket at <a href="https://www.regulations.gov">https://www.regulations.gov</a> by
searching for and locating Docket No. FAA-2021-0567; or in person at
Docket Operations between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m., Monday through Friday,
except Federal holidays. The AD docket contains this final rule, any
comments received, and other information. The address for Docket
Operations is U.S. Department of Transportation, Docket Operations, M-
30, West Building Ground Floor, Room W12-140, 1200 New Jersey Avenue
SE, Washington, DC 20590.
FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Stephen Elwin, Aviation Safety
Engineer, ECO Branch, FAA, 1200 District Avenue, Burlington, MA 01803;
phone: (781) 238-7236; fax: (781) 238-7199; email:
<a href="/cdn-cgi/l/email-protection#9bc8effeebf3fef5b5d7b5def7ecf2f5dbfdfafab5fcf4ed"><span class="__cf_email__" data-cfemail="27745342574f4249096b09624b504e496741464609404851">[email protected]</span></a>.
SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION:
Background
The FAA issued a notice of proposed rulemaking (NPRM) to amend 14
CFR part 39 by adding an AD that would apply to all GE GE90-76B, GE90-
85B, GE90-90B, GE90-94B, GE90-110B1, and GE90-115B model turbofan
engines with a certain TGB radial gearshaft installed. The NPRM
published in the Federal Register on August 12, 2021 (86 FR 44321). The
NPRM was prompted by notification of two separate IFSDs resulting from
the failure of the TGB radial gearshaft. After further investigation,
the manufacturer determined that rework on the TGB radial gearshaft
teeth chamfers during manufacturing may have caused local burrs and
micro-cracks which led to high-cycle fatigue failure. GE subsequently
issued service information to provide instructions for a one-time
visual inspection of the affected radial gearshafts for the presence of
burrs or rework on TGB radial gearshaft teeth chamfers. In the NPRM,
the FAA proposed to require visual inspection of the TGB radial
gearshaft and, depending on the results of the inspection, replacement
of the TGB radial gearshaft. The FAA is issuing this AD to address the
unsafe condition on these products.
Discussion of Final Airworthiness Directive
Comments
The FAA received comments from 5 commenters. The commenters were
Air Line Pilots Association, International, The Boeing Company, FedEx
Express, Japan Airlines (JAL), and United Airlines. The following
presents the comments received on the NPRM and the FAA's response to
each comment.
Question on the Difference Between This AD and the Service Information
JAL asked why there is a difference between the affected serial
numbers (S/Ns) in this AD and the related service bulletins (SBs).
The FAA notes that the applicable SBs include several populations
of TGB radial gearshafts. The FAA determined that TGB radial gearshafts
with S/Ns starting with prefix FIAAXXXX, FIA05XXX to FIA09XXX, or
FIA0AXXX to FIA0NXXX are not subject to the
[[Page 1344]]
unsafe condition in this AD. Although this AD does not require that
these TGB radial gearshafts be inspected and removed, operators may
still elect to inspect these TGB radial gearshaft at the next scheduled
engine shop visit.
Request To Clarify Engine Shop Visit Definition
JAL requested that the FAA clarify disassembly of the compressor
discharge pressure (CDP) seal joint in the definition of ``engine shop
visit.'' JAL indicated that they understand that disassembly of the CDP
seal joint is the same as disassembly of the CDP seal flange bolt, but
not the same as removal of the CDP seal.
The FAA notes that any disassembly of the CDP seal joint meets the
definition of an engine shop visit.
Request To Clarify if Inspection Occurs During Quick Turn Workscope
(QTW)
JAL asked if the TGB radial gearshaft is required to be inspected
during engine QTW. JAL indicated that GE GE90-100 Service Bulletin (SB)
72-0857 R01, dated April 28, 2021 (GE90-100 SB 72-0857 R01), excludes
the performance of the inspection during QTW. The proposed AD, however,
did not reference QTW in the required inspection. JAL suggested that
the FAA update this AD to either exclude QTW from the compliance
requirement for inspection or clarify the difference between the
service information and this AD.
The FAA understands that the CDP seal joint, in some cases, may
require disassembly during a QTW; however, in this scenario the
appropriate provisions would exist to perform the required actions of
this AD. A QTW that does not disassemble the CDP seal joint would not
meet the definition of an engine shop visit, per this AD.
Addition of Interim Action Paragraph
The FAA determined the need to add the Interim Action paragraph to
this AD. The manufacturer is investigating if an additional population
of TGB radial gear shafts are affected by the unsafe condition of this
AD.
Support for the AD
Air Line Pilots Association, International, The Boeing Company,
FedEx Express, and United Airlines expressed support for the AD as
written.
Conclusion
The FAA reviewed the relevant data, considered any comments
received, and determined that air safety requires adopting this AD as
proposed. Accordingly, the FAA is issuing this AD to address the unsafe
condition on these products. Except for minor editorial changes, and
any other changes described previously, this AD is adopted as proposed
in the NPRM. None of the changes will increase the economic burden on
any operator.
Related Service Information Under 1 CFR Part 51
The FAA reviewed GE GE90 Service Bulletin (SB) 72-1201 R01, dated
April 28, 2021 (GE90 SB 72-1201 R01), and GE90-100 SB 72-0857 R01,
dated April 28, 2021. GE90 SB 72-1201 R01 specifies procedures for
performing a one-time inspection of the TGB radial gearshaft for
presence of burrs or rework on teeth chamfers on GE90-76B, GE90-85B,
GE90-90B, and GE90-94B model turbofan engines. GE90-100 SB 72-0857 R01
specifies procedures for performing a one-time inspection of the TGB
radial gearshaft for presence of burrs or rework on teeth chamfers on
GE90-110B1 and GE90-115B model turbofan engines. 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.
Interim Action
The FAA considers this AD to be an interim action. If final action
is later identified, the FAA may consider additional rulemaking.
Costs of Compliance
The FAA estimates that this AD affects 126 engines installed on
airplanes of U.S. registry.
The FAA estimates the following costs to comply with this AD:
Estimated Costs
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Cost per Cost on U.S.
Action Labor cost Parts cost product operators
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Inspect TGB radial gearshaft.......... 1 work-hour x $85 per $0 $85 $10,710
hour = $85.
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The FAA estimates the following costs to do any necessary
replacement that would be required based on the results of the
inspection. The agency has no way of determining the number of aircraft
that might need this replacement:
On-Condition Costs
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Cost per
Action Labor cost Parts cost product
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Replace TGB radial gearshaft.................. 60 work-hours x $85 per hour = $24,520 $29,620
$5,100.
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Authority for This Rulemaking
Title 49 of the United States Code specifies the FAA's authority to
issue rules on aviation safety. Subtitle I, section 106, describes the
authority of the FAA Administrator. Subtitle VII: Aviation Programs,
describes in more detail the scope of the Agency's authority.
The FAA is issuing this rulemaking under the authority described in
Subtitle VII, Part A, Subpart III, Section 44701: General requirements.
Under that section, Congress charges the FAA with promoting safe flight
of civil aircraft in air commerce by prescribing regulations for
practices, methods, and procedures the Administrator finds necessary
for safety in air commerce. This regulation is within the scope of that
authority because it addresses an unsafe condition that is likely to
exist or develop on products identified in this rulemaking action.
Regulatory Findings
This AD will not have federalism implications under Executive Order
13132. This AD will not have a
[[Page 1345]]
substantial direct effect on the States, on the relationship between
the national government and the States, or on the distribution of power
and responsibilities among the various levels of government.
For the reasons discussed above, I certify that this AD:
(1) Is not a ``significant regulatory action'' under Executive
Order 12866,
(2) Will not affect intrastate aviation in Alaska, and
(3) Will not have a significant economic impact, positive or
negative, on a substantial number of small entities under the criteria
of the Regulatory Flexibility Act.
List of Subjects in 14 CFR Part 39
Air transportation, Aircraft, Aviation safety, Incorporation by
reference, Safety.
The Amendment
Accordingly, under the authority delegated to me by the
Administrator, the FAA amends 14 CFR part 39 as follows:
PART 39--AIRWORTHINESS DIRECTIVES
0
1. The authority citation for part 39 continues to read as follows:
Authority: 49 U.S.C. 106(g), 40113, 44701.
Sec. 39.13 [Amended]
0
2. The FAA amends Sec. 39.13 by adding the following new airworthiness
directive:
2021-26-06 General Electric Company: Amendment 39-21865; Docket No.
FAA-2021-0567; Project Identifier AD-2021-00663-E.
(a) Effective Date
This airworthiness directive (AD) is effective February 15,
2022.
(b) Affected ADs
None.
(c) Applicability
This AD applies to General Electric Company (GE) GE90-76B, GE90-
85B, GE90-90B, GE90-94B, GE90-110B1, and GE90-115B model turbofan
engines with a transfer gearbox (TGB) radial bevel gear (TGB radial
gearshaft) serial number listed in paragraph 4., APPENDIX--A, Table
1 of GE GE90 Service Bulletin (SB) 72-1201 R01, dated April 28, 2021
(GE90 SB 72-1201 R01) or paragraph 4., APPENDIX--A, Table 1 of GE
GE90-100 SB 72-0857 R01, dated April 28, 2021 (GE90-100 SB 72-0857
R01).
(d) Subject
Joint Aircraft System Component (JASC) Code 7260, Turbine Engine
Accessory Drive.
(e) Unsafe Condition
This AD was prompted by two separate in-flight shutdowns
resulting from the failure of the TGB radial gearshaft. The FAA is
issuing this AD to prevent failure of the TGB radial gearshaft. The
unsafe condition, if not addressed, could result in failure of one
or more engines, loss of thrust control, and damage to the aircraft.
(f) Compliance
Comply with this AD within the compliance times specified,
unless already done.
(g) Required Actions
(1) At the next engine shop visit after the effective date of
this AD, perform a visual inspection of the affected TGB radial
gearshaft using Figure 1 to paragraph (g)(1) of this AD.
[GRAPHIC] [TIFF OMITTED] TR11JA22.000
(2) If, during the visual inspection required by paragraph
(g)(1) of this AD, discrepancies are found that meet the criteria in
the Accomplishment Instructions, paragraph 3.A.(4)(a) or 3.A.(4)(b),
of GE90 SB 72-1201 R01 or GE90-100 SB 72-0857 R01, before further
flight, replace the TGB radial gearshaft with a part eligible for
installation.
(h) Definitions
(1) For the purpose of this AD, an ``engine shop visit'' is when
the compressor discharge pressure seal joint is disassembled.
(2) For the purpose of this AD, a ``part eligible for
installation'' is a TGB radial gearshaft that does not have raised
material or rework on the teeth chamfers as described in the
Accomplishment Instructions, paragraph 3.A.(4)(a) or 3.A.(4)(b), of
GE90 SB 72-1201 R01 or GE90-100 SB 72-0857 R01.
(i) Credit for Previous Actions
You may take credit for the inspection of the affected TGB
radial gearshaft required by paragraph (g)(1) of this AD if you
performed the inspection before the effective date of this AD using
GE GE90 SB 72-1201 R00, dated January 5, 2021, or GE GE90-100 SB 72-
0857 R00, dated January 5, 2021.
(j) Alternative Methods of Compliance (AMOCs)
(1) The Manager, ECO 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
certification office, send it to the attention of the person
identified in paragraph (k) of this AD. You may email your request
to <a href="/cdn-cgi/l/email-protection#30717e751d71741d717d7f73705651511e575f46"><span class="__cf_email__" data-cfemail="87c6c9c2aac6c3aac6cac8c4c7e1e6e6a9e0e8f1">[email protected]</span></a>.
(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.
(k) Related Information
For more information about this AD, contact Stephen Elwin,
Aviation Safety Engineer, ECO Branch, FAA, 1200 District Avenue,
Burlington, MA 01803; phone: (781) 238-7236; fax: (781) 238-7199;
email: <a href="/cdn-cgi/l/email-protection#89dafdecf9e1ece7a7c5a7cce5fee0e7c9efe8e8a7eee6ff"><span class="__cf_email__" data-cfemail="b5e6c1d0c5ddd0db9bf99bf0d9c2dcdbf5d3d4d49bd2dac3">[email protected]</span></a>.
(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) GE90 Service Bulletin (SB) 72-
1201 R01, dated April 28, 2021.
(ii) GE GE90-100 SB 72-0857 R01, dated April 28, 2021.
(3) For GE service information identified in this AD, contact
General Electric Company, GE Aviation, Room 285, 1 Neumann Way,
Cincinnati, OH 45215; phone: (513) 552-3272; email:
<a href="/cdn-cgi/l/email-protection#48293e21293c212726662e242d2d3c3b3d3838273a3c082f2d662b2725"><span class="__cf_email__" data-cfemail="3657405f57425f595818505a535342454346465944427651531855595b">[email protected]</span></a>; website: <a href="https://www.ge.com">https://www.ge.com</a>.
(4) You may view this service information at FAA, Airworthiness
Products Section, Operational Safety Branch, 1200 District Avenue,
Burlington, MA 01803. For
[[Page 1346]]
information on the availability of this material at the FAA, call
(817) 222-5110.
(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: <a href="/cdn-cgi/l/email-protection#167064387f7865667375627f7978567877647738717960"><span class="__cf_email__" data-cfemail="2a4c58044344595a4f495e4345446a444b584b044d455c">[email protected]</span></a>, or go to: <a href="https://www.archives.gov/federal-register/cfr/ibr-locations.html">https://www.archives.gov/federal-register/cfr/ibr-locations.html</a>.
Issued on December 9, 2021.
Lance T. Gant,
Director, Compliance & Airworthiness Division, Aircraft Certification
Service.
[FR Doc. 2022-00049 Filed 1-10-22; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE 4910-13-P
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</html>Indexed from Federal Register on January 11, 2022.
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