Published 2015-09-02 · Federal Register document 2015-20696
Airworthiness Directives; The Boeing Company Airplanes
Publication summary
We are adopting a new airworthiness directive (AD) for certain The Boeing Company Model 777-200 and -300 series airplanes equipped with Pratt and Whitney engines. This AD was prompted by reports of blocked drain lines at the engine forward strut that caused flammable fluid to accumulate in a flammable leakage zone. This AD requires repetitive functional checks for blockage of the forward strut drain line and doing corrective actions if necessary, and a one-time cleaning of certain forward strut drain lines. This AD also provides an optional replacement of the drain lines and installation of insulation blankets, and a revision of the maintenance or inspection program, as applicable, to incorporate a certain airworthiness limitation, which would terminate the repetitive checks of the forward strut drain line. We are issuing this AD to detect and correct blockage of forward strut drain lines, which could cause flammable fluids to collect in the forward strut area and potentially cause an uncontrolled fire or cause failure of engine attachment structure and consequent airplane loss.
Why this record is shown
Source: Federal Register annual FAA metadata. Acquired 2026-09-03T22:23:48.517946+00:00. The title, summary and date are source facts.
- Source revision
- federal_register_ad_metadata_2015-3bb842c840a7e6e6
- Source row
- results[202]
- Raw source SHA-256
- 3bb842c840a7e6e6e43779ca68008e1e63ad8287ad840c3a981d1f66a934b14b
Final-rule publication
Recorded publication clauses
- AD identifier printed in this edition
- 2015-17-13
- Effective date printed in this edition
- 2015-10-07
Read 14 complete recorded clauses
Effective Date
(a) Effective Date
This AD is effective October 7, 2015.
Exact source excerpt. Text positions 22090–22153, end exclusive, in the original decoded publication. SHA-256: 0f0786590931614ceee6ff9b961a3ec4ec802e8544976e98509b2e0e94f3bff0
Affected ADs
(b) Affected ADs
None.
Exact source excerpt. Text positions 22153–22182, end exclusive, in the original decoded publication. SHA-256: 871a4afc60ceeae06e8010585055188633d616078500c45937092bfe892239c0
Applicability wording · Applicability
(c) Applicability
This AD applies to The Boeing Company Model 777-200 and -300 series
airplanes, certificated in any category, equipped with Pratt & Whitney
engines, as identified in Boeing Special Attention Service Bulletin
777-54-0027, Revision 1, dated September 12, 2013.
[[Page 52952]]
Exact source excerpt. Text positions 22182–22483, end exclusive, in the original decoded publication. SHA-256: b35f138869e724a92374c05e1b7c6c2b5f83aa22d71915c13b8c9cb8a6936bae
Subject
(d) Subject
Air Transport Association (ATA) of America Code 54, Nacelles/
pylons.
Exact source excerpt. Text positions 22483–22571, end exclusive, in the original decoded publication. SHA-256: 965d2e1891bda21636b3e8a29c4a3b1fe986ee773e61af574cd84217708deb41
Unsafe Condition
(e) Unsafe Condition
This AD was prompted by reports of blocked drain lines at the
engine forward strut that caused flammable fluid to accumulate in a
flammable leakage zone. We are proposing this AD to detect and correct
blockage of forward strut drain lines, which could cause flammable
fluids to collect in the forward strut area and potentially cause an
uncontrolled fire or cause failure of engine attachment structure and
consequent airplane loss.
Exact source excerpt. Text positions 22571–23037, end exclusive, in the original decoded publication. SHA-256: e9be37404d539f45f12c97cfa2c6394e642275684d994339cd79b54488f6e506
Compliance
(f) Compliance
Comply with this AD within the compliance times specified, unless
already done.
Exact source excerpt. Text positions 23037–23139, end exclusive, in the original decoded publication. SHA-256: abbabaaf05573998de1d97fbb30ea4c00462eeb0a61e63718978c9d279c57885
Functional Check, Cleaning, and Corrective Actions
(g) Functional Check, Cleaning, and Corrective Actions
At the applicable times specified in paragraph 1.E.,
``Compliance,'' of Boeing Special Attention Service Bulletin 777-54-
0027, Revision 1, dated September 12, 2013, except as provided by
paragraph (h) of this AD, do the actions specified in paragraphs (g)(1)
and (g)(2) of this AD, in accordance with the Accomplishment
Instructions of Boeing Special Attention Service Bulletin 777-54-0027,
Revision 1, dated September 12, 2013. Repeat the functional check
required by paragraph (g)(1) of this AD, thereafter at the applicable
times specified in paragraph 1.E., ``Compliance,'' of Boeing Special
Attention Service Bulletin 777-54-0027, Revision 1, dated September 12,
2013, until the terminating action specified in paragraph (i) of this
AD is done.
(1) Do a functional check for blockage of the forward strut drain
line of the left and right strut and do all applicable corrective
actions (including cleaning or replacing blocked drain tubes, repairing
fluid leaks, and cleaning the inlet drain screen on the right system
disconnect assembly inlet). Do all applicable corrective actions before
further flight. Alternate tee fitting part numbers BACT16BR120612JN and
AS4139J120612 may be used during the replacement of the forward strut
drain lines, provided the installation is performed in accordance with
the Accomplishment Instructions of Boeing Special Attention Service
Bulletin 777-54-0027, Revision 1, dated September 12, 2013.
(2) Do a one-time cleaning of the smaller forward strut drain lines
connected to the left systems disconnect, the strut forward lower spar,
and the forward fire seal pan inlets.
Exact source excerpt. Text positions 23139–24844, end exclusive, in the original decoded publication. SHA-256: 4f1ae7dfd67ddfbcb818446ff0e8b6388bb8c7960336b6ae353e21ada6a87a8b
Exception to the Service Information Specifications
(h) Exception to the Service Information Specifications
Where Boeing Special Attention Service Bulletin 777-54-0027,
Revision 1, dated September 12, 2013, refers to a compliance time
``after the Revision 1 date of this Service Bulletin,'' this AD
requires compliance within the specified compliance time after the
effective date of this AD.
Exact source excerpt. Text positions 24844–25195, end exclusive, in the original decoded publication. SHA-256: 0a89aa2f3f9de8772b64d817454b0dfcb5eab296ab1aa8dc5ef75d9bc5e8bc99
Optional Terminating Action
(i) Optional Terminating Action
Accomplishment of the actions specified in paragraphs (i)(1)
through (i)(4) of this AD, for both the left and right struts, in
accordance with the Accomplishment Instructions of Boeing Special
Attention Service Bulletin 777-71-0055, Revision 1, dated April 15,
2015, and accomplishment of the revision specified in paragraph (i)(5)
of this AD, terminates the repetitive functional checks required by
paragraph (g)(1) of this AD at the modified area only.
(1) Disconnect and remove the forward strut drain lines.
(2) Clean the left systems disconnect, the strut forward lower
spar, and the forward fireseal pan drain lines.
(3) Install new forward strut drain lines and insulation blankets.
(4) Do a leak check of the forward strut drain lines, for any leak,
and repair if any leaking is found.
(5) Revise the maintenance or inspection program, as applicable, to
incorporate Airworthiness Limitation 54-AWL-01, ``Forward Strut Drain
Line'', Section D.4, Pratt and Whitney Forward Strut Drain Line, of the
Boeing 777 Maintenance Planning Data (MPD) Document Section 9,
Airworthiness Limitations (AWLs) and Certification Maintenance
Requirements (CMRs), D622W001-9, Revision October 2014. The initial
compliance time for Airworthiness Limitation 54-AWL-01 is within 2,000
flight cycles or 1,500 days, whichever occurs first, after doing the
actions specified in paragraphs (i)(1) through (i)(4) of this AD.
Exact source excerpt. Text positions 25195–26673, end exclusive, in the original decoded publication. SHA-256: 53f1e6262bdbddbcf73dddb854c4a861ee6a1bd00dd503c4acb1d2543b64a0a1
No Alternative Actions or Intervals
(j) No Alternative Actions or Intervals
After accomplishing the revision required by paragraph (i)(5) of
this AD, no alternative actions (e.g., inspections) or intervals may be
used unless the actions or intervals are approved as an alternative
method of compliance (AMOC) in accordance with the procedures specified
in paragraph (l) of this AD.
Exact source excerpt. Text positions 26673–27029, end exclusive, in the original decoded publication. SHA-256: 4fb56d5442fe81e6a5343488b30cabe05842d380c888238039a4fcfa69a29a3f
Credit for Previous Actions
(k) Credit for Previous Actions
This paragraph provides credit for actions required by paragraph
(i) of this AD, if those actions were performed before the effective
date of this AD using Boeing Special Attention Service Bulletin 777-71-
0055, dated June 12, 2014, which is not incorporated by reference in
this AD.
Exact source excerpt. Text positions 27029–27354, end exclusive, in the original decoded publication. SHA-256: 5ae597998dfc4f8d335a246a0192b86c1af89f62c36f943a2d6988d8739f49b7
Alternative Methods of Compliance (AMOCs)
(l) Alternative Methods of Compliance (AMOCs)
(1) The Manager, Seattle Aircraft Certification Office (ACO), 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 ACO, send it to the attention of the person identified
in paragraph (m)(1) of this AD. Information may be emailed to: [email protected].
(2) Before using any approved AMOC, notify your appropriate
principal inspector, or lacking a principal inspector, the manager of
the local flight standards district office/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 the Boeing
Commercial Airplanes Organization Designation Authorization (ODA) that
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, and the approval must specifically
refer to this AD.
Exact source excerpt. Text positions 27354–28570, end exclusive, in the original decoded publication. SHA-256: 1a4d3372896943670eca2307e6d3ddc0e09a77fc090726cf66c63336ab7f66f7
Related Information
(m) Related Information
(1) For more information about this AD, contact Kevin Nguyen,
Aerospace Engineer, Propulsion Branch, ANM-140S, FAA, Seattle Aircraft
Certification Office, 1601 Lind Avenue SW., Renton, WA 98057-3356;
phone: 425-917-6501; fax: 425-917-6590; email: [email protected].
(2) Service information identified in this AD that is not
incorporated by reference is available at the addresses specified in
paragraphs (n)(3) and (n)(4) of this AD.
Exact source excerpt. Text positions 28570–29043, end exclusive, in the original decoded publication. SHA-256: 2f0f66b17b4cd3d4012ff77bdeafd47b0a66e1d177b3e259443087578d89050c
Material Incorporated by Reference
(n) 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
[[Page 52953]]
actions required by this AD, unless the AD specifies otherwise.
(i) Boeing Special Attention Service Bulletin 777-54-0027, Revision
1, dated September 12, 2013.
(ii) Boeing Special Attention Service Bulletin 777-71-0055,
Revision 1, dated April 15, 2015.
(iii) Airworthiness Limitation 54-AWL-01, ``Forward Strut Drain
Line'', Section D.4, Pratt and Whitney Forward Strut Drain Line, of the
Boeing 777 Maintenance Planning Data (MPD) Document Section 9,
Airworthiness Limitations (AWLs) and Certification Maintenance
Requirements (CMRs), D622W001-9, Revision October 2014.
(3) For service information identified in this AD, contact Boeing
Commercial Airplanes, Attention: Data & Services Management, P. O. Box
3707, MC 2H-65, Seattle, WA 98124-2207; telephone 206-544-5000,
extension 1; fax 206-766-5680; Internet https://www.myboeingfleet.com.
(4) You may view this service information at FAA, Transport
Airplane Directorate, 1601 Lind Avenue SW., Renton, WA. For information
on the availability of this material at the FAA, call 425-227-1221.
(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, call 202-
741-6030, or go to: http://www.archives.gov/federal-register/cfr/ibr-locations.html.
Exact source excerpt. Text positions 29043–30732, end exclusive, in the original decoded publication. SHA-256: adc56d6e4ba79949bd07ee9a5f9558b7642d4a64fc997bbc6e87a614a4dd1c40
No replacement link has been established from this edition. The complete historical rule chain and current legal effect remain unknown.
Find all recorded historical references to AD 2015-17-13 · 0 printed reference observations in this pinned collection.
These are observations from one dated publication. Current legal status is unknown; aircraft applicability, installed configuration, compliance and burden require separate evidence. Missing or unparsed conditions remain unknown.
Why these observations are shown
They were extracted offline from the same immutable official HTML source as the complete recorded text. The dated source wording, original text coordinates and exact quote digests are retained. PDF/text agreement and current regulatory effect have not been qualified.
Observation revision: whole-ad-publication-clause-observations-1.0.1. Text SHA-256: f7f508bfb3ab7a479762ff46dbb9a4632bf883733cc4e80eedf34effc0794982. Source manifest: 62b292f4aba4c8e8bb17407766e677a1a1f96d4e1fc133481983fa8d1a4b90de.
Official source · 2015-09-02
Publication text
This is the complete recorded text of this dated publication.
Current legal effect is unknown. Aircraft applicability, installed configuration and compliance require separate evidence. PDF/text agreement has not been evaluated.
Read the complete official publication text
[Federal Register Volume 80, Number 170 (Wednesday, September 2, 2015)]
[Rules and Regulations]
[Pages 52948-52953]
From the Federal Register Online via the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]
[FR Doc No: 2015-20696]
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DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION
Federal Aviation Administration
14 CFR Part 39
[Docket No. FAA-2014-0523; Directorate Identifier 2014-NM-050-AD;
Amendment 39-18246; AD 2015-17-13]
RIN 2120-AA64
Airworthiness Directives; The Boeing Company Airplanes
AGENCY: Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), DOT.
ACTION: Final rule.
-----------------------------------------------------------------------
SUMMARY: We are adopting a new airworthiness directive (AD) for certain
The Boeing Company Model 777-200 and -300 series airplanes equipped
with Pratt and Whitney engines. This AD was prompted by reports of
blocked drain lines at the engine forward strut that caused flammable
fluid to accumulate in a flammable leakage zone. This AD requires
repetitive functional checks for blockage of the forward strut drain
line and doing corrective actions if necessary, and a one-time cleaning
of certain forward strut drain lines. This AD also provides an optional
replacement of the drain lines and installation of insulation blankets,
and a revision of the maintenance or inspection program, as applicable,
to incorporate a certain airworthiness limitation, which would
terminate the repetitive checks of the forward strut drain line. We are
issuing this AD to detect and correct blockage of forward strut drain
lines, which could cause flammable fluids to collect in the
[[Page 52949]]
forward strut area and potentially cause an uncontrolled fire or cause
failure of engine attachment structure and consequent airplane loss.
DATES: This AD is effective October 7, 2015.
The Director of the Federal Register approved the incorporation by
reference of a certain publication listed in this AD as of October 7,
2015.
ADDRESSES: For service information identified in this AD, contact
Boeing Commercial Airplanes, Attention: Data & Services Management,
P.O. Box 3707, MC 2H-65, Seattle, WA 98124-2207; telephone 206-544-
5000, extension 1; fax 206-766-5680; Internet https://www.myboeingfleet.com. You may view this referenced service information
at the FAA, Transport Airplane Directorate, 1601 Lind Avenue SW.,
Renton, WA. For information on the availability of this material at the
FAA, call 425-227-1221. It is also available on the Internet at http://www.regulations.gov by searching for and locating Docket No. FAA-2014-
0523.
Examining the AD Docket
You may examine the AD docket on the Internet at http://www.regulations.gov by searching for and locating Docket No. FAA-2014-
0523; or in person at the Docket Management Facility between 9 a.m. and
5 p.m., Monday through Friday, except Federal holidays. The AD docket
contains this AD, the regulatory evaluation, any comments received, and
other information. The address for the Docket Office (phone: 800-647-
5527) is Docket Management Facility, 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: Kevin Nguyen, Aerospace Engineer,
Propulsion Branch, ANM-140S, FAA, Seattle Aircraft Certification
Office, 1601 Lind Avenue SW., Renton, WA 98057-3356; phone: 425-917-
6501; fax: 425-917-6590; email: [email protected].
SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION:
Discussion
We issued a notice of proposed rulemaking (NPRM) to amend 14 CFR
part 39 by adding an AD that would apply to certain The Boeing Company
Model 777-200 and -300 series airplanes equipped with Pratt and Whitney
engines. The NPRM published in the Federal Register on August 7, 2014
(79 FR 46201). The NPRM was prompted by reports of blocked drain lines
at the engine forward strut that caused flammable fluid to accumulate
in a flammable leakage zone. The NPRM proposed to require repetitive
functional checks for blockage of the forward strut drain line and
doing corrective actions (including cleaning or replacing any blocked
drain lines) if necessary, and a one-time cleaning of certain forward
strut drain lines. We are issuing this AD to detect and correct
blockage of forward strut drain lines, which could cause flammable
fluids to collect in the forward strut area and potentially cause an
uncontrolled fire or cause failure of engine attachment structure and
consequent airplane loss.
This AD requires revisions to certain operator maintenance
documents to include new actions (e.g., inspections). Compliance with
these actions is required by 14 CFR 91.403(c). For airplanes that have
been previously modified, altered, or repaired in the areas addressed
by this 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 (l) of this AD. The request should
include a description of changes to the required inspections that will
ensure the continued operational safety of the airplane.
Related Rulemaking
On September 23, 2014, we issued AD 2014-20-10, Amendment 39-17983
(79 FR 60331, October 7, 2014), for certain The Boeing Company Model
777-200 and -300 series airplanes. AD 2014-20-10 superseded AD 2013-11-
14, Amendment 39-17474 (78 FR 35749, June 14, 2013). AD 2014-20-10
currently requires repetitive general visual inspections of the strut
forward dry bay for the presence of hydraulic fluid, and related
investigative and corrective actions (including checking drain lines
for blockage due to hydraulic fluid coking; cleaning or replacing drain
lines to allow drainage) if necessary; and adds airplanes to the
applicability. AD 2014-20-10 was prompted by reports of hydraulic fluid
contamination (including contamination caused by hydraulic fluid in its
liquid, vapor, and/or solid (coked) form) found in the strut forward
dry bay. The actions required by 2014-20-10 are intended to detect and
correct hydraulic fluid contamination of the strut forward dry bay,
which could result in hydrogen embrittlement of the titanium forward
engine mount bulkhead fittings, and consequent inability of the
fittings to carry engine loads and resulting in engine separation.
Hydrogen embrittlement also could cause a through-crack formation
across the fittings through which an engine fire could breach into the
strut, resulting in an uncontained strut fire.
On December 22, 2014, we issued AD 2015-01-01, Amendment 39-18062
(80 FR 3158, January 22, 2015) for certain The Boeing Company Model
777-200 and -300 series airplanes. AD 2015-01-01 superseded AD 2011-09-
11, Amendment 39-16673 (76 FR 24354, May 2, 2011). AD 2015-01-01
currently requires repetitive inspections for hydraulic fluid
contamination of the interior of the strut disconnect assembly;
repetitive inspections for discrepancies of the interior of the strut
disconnect assembly, if necessary; repetitive inspections of the
exterior of the strut disconnect assembly for cracks, if necessary; and
corrective action if necessary. AD 2015-01-01 also provides an optional
terminating action for the inspections and adds, for certain airplanes,
an inspection of the side and top cover plates to determine if all
cover plate attach fasteners have been installed, installing any
missing fasteners including doing an inspection for damage, and repair
if necessary.
AD 2015-01-01, Amendment 39-18062 (80 FR 3158, January 22, 2015)
was prompted by reports of side and top cover plates installed with
missing fastener bolts, which could result in an unsealed opening on
the system disconnect assembly. The actions required by AD 2015-01-01
are intended to detect and correct hydraulic fluid contamination, which
could cause cracking of titanium parts in the system disconnect
assembly. The actions of 2015-01-01 are also intended to detect and
correct missing fasteners, which could result in unsealed openings on
the system disconnect assembly. Both unsafe conditions can compromise
the engine firewall and result in fire hazards for both the engine
compartment and the strut.
Comments
We gave the public the opportunity to participate in developing
this AD. The following presents the comments received on the NPRM (79
FR 46201, August 7, 2014) and the FAA's response to each comment.
Request To Add Service Information as Optional Terminating Action
Boeing and Japan Airlines (JAL) requested that we add Boeing
Special Attention Service Bulletin 777-71-0055, dated June 12, 2014, as
a terminating action to the NPRM (79 FR
[[Page 52950]]
46201, August 7, 2014). Boeing specifically requested that this service
information be added in the Supplementary Information--Interim Action
section and as a second paragraph to paragraph (i) of the NPRM. Boeing
requested that paragraph (i) of the NPRM state that accomplishment of
Boeing Special Attention Service Bulletin 777-71-0055, dated June 12,
2014, terminates the requirements of Boeing Special Attention Service
Bulletin 777-54-0027, Revision 1, dated September 12, 2013, and is an
alternative means of compliance with this AD.
We agree. Boeing Special Attention Service Bulletin 777-71-0055,
dated June 12, 2014, which has since been revised as Revision 1, dated
April 15, 2015, describes procedures that address the identified unsafe
condition. These procedures include removing the forward strut drain
lines; cleaning the left systems disconnect, strut forward lower spar,
and forward fireseal pan drain lines; installing new forward strut
drain lines and insulation blankets; and doing a functional leak check
of the forward strut drain lines, and repair if any leaking is found.
We have added new paragraph (i) to this AD to provide optional
terminating action and redesignated subsequent paragraphs accordingly.
Paragraph (i) of this AD states that accomplishment of Boeing Special
Attention Service Bulletin 777-71-0055, Revision 1, dated April 15,
2015, along with a revision of the maintenance or inspection program,
as applicable, to incorporate a certain airworthiness limitation,
terminates the requirements of paragraph (g)(1) of this AD at the
modified area only.
We have also added new paragraph (j) of this AD to specify that no
alternative actions or intervals may be used after incorporating the
airworthiness limitation unless the actions or intervals are approved
as an alternative method of compliance (AMOC) in accordance with the
procedures specified in paragraph (l) of this AD. We redesignated
subsequent paragraphs accordingly.
We have also added new paragraph (k) to this AD to give credit for
actions required by paragraph (i) of this AD, if those actions were
performed before the effective date of this AD using Boeing Special
Attention Service Bulletin 777-71-0055, dated June 12, 2014. We
redesignated subsequent paragraphs accordingly.
In addition, we updated the ``Interim Action'' paragraph in the
SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION section of the preamble of this final rule
accordingly.
Request To Remove Requirement To Clean Forward Strut Drain Line
All Nippon Airways (ANA) requested that we revise the NPRM (79 FR
46201, August 7, 2014) to remove the phrase ``clean the forward strut
drain line'' from paragraph (g)(1) of the NPRM. ANA stated that
cleaning the forward strut drain line is not required if part 1,
condition 1, in paragraph 3.B ``Work Instructions,'' of Boeing Special
Attention Service Bulletin 777-54-0027, Revision 1, dated September 12,
2013, is met.
We agree because condition 1 is met when 354 or more ounces of
water are collected within 2 minutes after the start of pouring water
for the functional check of the forward strut drain line. Cleaning the
blocked drain line is part of the corrective actions in condition 2 as
specified in Boeing Special Attention Service Bulletin 777-54-0027,
Revision 1, dated September 12, 2013. This change does not compromise
safety or the intent of the AD, therefore, we have removed the phrase
``clean the forward strut drain line,'' from paragraph (g)(1) of this
final rule.
Request To Allow Alternate Tee Fitting Part Numbers
ANA requested the NPRM (79 FR 46201, August 7, 2014) include three
part numbers of the tee fitting. ANA indicated that paragraph 2.C., of
Boeing Special Attention Service Bulletin 777-54-0027, Revision 1,
dated September 12, 2013, states BACT16BR120612J tee fitting is
required if replacement is necessary. ANA stated tee fittings having
part numbers BACT16BR120612J, BACT16BR120612JN, and AS4139J120612 may
be used according to a Boeing product standard parts list.
We agree because the tee fitting part number BACT16BR120612J listed
in Boeing Special Attention Service Bulletin 777-54-0027, Revision 1,
dated September 12, 2013, is obsolete. We have added text to paragraph
(g)(1) of this AD to allow alternate tee fitting part numbers
BACT16BR120612JN and AS4139J120612, as long as the installation of the
forward strut drain lines is accomplished in accordance with the
Accomplishment Instructions of Boeing Special Attention Service
Bulletin 777-54-0027, Revision 1, dated September 12, 2013.
Conclusion
We reviewed the relevant data, considered the comments received,
and determined that air safety and the public interest require adopting
this AD with the changes described previously and minor editorial
changes. We have determined that these minor changes:
<bullet> [Agr]re consistent with the intent that was proposed in
the NPRM (79 FR 46201, August 7, 2014) for correcting the unsafe
condition; and
<bullet> Do not add any additional burden upon the public than was
already proposed in the NPRM (79 FR 46201, August 7, 2014).
We also determined that these changes will not increase the
economic burden on any operator or increase the scope of this AD.
Interim Action
We consider this AD interim action. The manufacturer has issued
Boeing Special Attention Service Bulletin 777-71-0055, Revision 1,
dated April 15, 2015, which describes a modification that addresses the
unsafe condition identified in this AD. This service information is an
optional action in this AD. If final action is later identified, we
might consider further rulemaking.
Related Service Information Under 1 CFR Part 51
We reviewed the following Boeing service information.
<bullet> Boeing Special Attention Service Bulletin 777-54-0027,
Revision 1, dated September 12, 2013. The service information describes
procedures for doing a functional check for blockage of the forward
strut drain lines and corrective actions.
<bullet> Boeing Special Attention Service Bulletin 777-71-0055,
Revision 1, dated April 15, 2015. This service information describes
procedures for replacing the forward strut drain lines and adding
insulation blankets.
<bullet> Airworthiness Limitation 54-AWL-01, ``Forward Strut Drain
Line,'' Section D.4, Pratt and Whitney Forward Strut Drain Line, of the
Boeing 777 Maintenance Planning Data (MPD) Document Section 9,
Airworthiness Limitations (AWLs) and Certification Maintenance
Requirements (CMRs), D622W001-9, Revision October 2014. This service
information describes an airworthiness limitation task for the
functional check of the forward strut drain line.
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 the ADDRESSES section of this
AD.
Costs of Compliance
We estimate that this AD affects 54 airplanes of U.S. registry.
We estimate the following costs to comply with this AD:
[[Page 52951]]
Estimated Costs: Required Actions
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Cost on U.S.
Action Labor cost Parts cost Cost per product operators
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Repetitive functional checks of 2 9 work-hours x $85 $0 $765 per inspection $41,310 per
struts per inspection cycle. per hour = $765 cycle. inspection cycle.
per inspection
cycle.
One-time cleaning................ 13 work-hours x $85 0 1,105.............. 59,670.
per hour = $1,105.
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
We estimate the following costs to do any necessary repairs or
replacements that would be required based on the results of the
inspection. We have no way of determining the number of aircraft that
might need these replacements:
On-condition Costs
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Action Labor cost Parts cost Cost per product
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Repair drain tube assemblies in up to Up to 5 work-hours x $85 per $0 Up to $425.
2 struts. hour = $425.
Replace drain tube assemblies in up to Up to 5 work-hours x $85 per Up to $4,484 Up to $4,909.
2 struts. hour = $425.
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
According to the manufacturer, some of the costs of this AD may be
covered under warranty, thereby reducing the cost impact on affected
individuals. We do not control warranty coverage for affected
individuals. As a result, we have included all costs in our cost
estimate.
Estimated Costs: Optional Actions
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Cost per
Action Labor Cost Parts Cost product
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Removal of drain tube assemblies........... 1 work[dash]hour x $85 per hour = $0 $85
$85.
Cleaning of drain lines.................... 6 work-hours x $85 per hour = $510. $0 $510
Installation of new drain lines and 2 work-hours x $85 per hour = $170. $17,250 $17,420
insulation blankets.
Leak check of drain lines.................. 1 work-hour x $85 per hour = $85... $0 $85
Revision of maintenance or inspection 1 work-hour x $85 per hour = $85... $0 $85
program.
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
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
This AD will not have federalism implications under Executive Order
13132. This AD will not have a substantial direct effect on the States,
on the relationship between the national government and the States, or
on the distribution of power and responsibilities among the various
levels of government.
For the reasons discussed above, I certify that this AD:
(1) Is not a ``significant regulatory action'' under Executive
Order 12866,
(2) Is not a ``significant rule'' under DOT Regulatory Policies and
Procedures (44 FR 11034, February 26, 1979),
(3) Will not affect intrastate aviation in Alaska, and
(4) 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.
Adoption of 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 (AD):
2015-17-13 The Boeing Company: Amendment 39-18246 ; Docket No. FAA-
2014-0523; Directorate Identifier 2014-NM-050-AD.
(a) Effective Date
This AD is effective October 7, 2015.
(b) Affected ADs
None.
(c) Applicability
This AD applies to The Boeing Company Model 777-200 and -300 series
airplanes, certificated in any category, equipped with Pratt & Whitney
engines, as identified in Boeing Special Attention Service Bulletin
777-54-0027, Revision 1, dated September 12, 2013.
[[Page 52952]]
(d) Subject
Air Transport Association (ATA) of America Code 54, Nacelles/
pylons.
(e) Unsafe Condition
This AD was prompted by reports of blocked drain lines at the
engine forward strut that caused flammable fluid to accumulate in a
flammable leakage zone. We are proposing this AD to detect and correct
blockage of forward strut drain lines, which could cause flammable
fluids to collect in the forward strut area and potentially cause an
uncontrolled fire or cause failure of engine attachment structure and
consequent airplane loss.
(f) Compliance
Comply with this AD within the compliance times specified, unless
already done.
(g) Functional Check, Cleaning, and Corrective Actions
At the applicable times specified in paragraph 1.E.,
``Compliance,'' of Boeing Special Attention Service Bulletin 777-54-
0027, Revision 1, dated September 12, 2013, except as provided by
paragraph (h) of this AD, do the actions specified in paragraphs (g)(1)
and (g)(2) of this AD, in accordance with the Accomplishment
Instructions of Boeing Special Attention Service Bulletin 777-54-0027,
Revision 1, dated September 12, 2013. Repeat the functional check
required by paragraph (g)(1) of this AD, thereafter at the applicable
times specified in paragraph 1.E., ``Compliance,'' of Boeing Special
Attention Service Bulletin 777-54-0027, Revision 1, dated September 12,
2013, until the terminating action specified in paragraph (i) of this
AD is done.
(1) Do a functional check for blockage of the forward strut drain
line of the left and right strut and do all applicable corrective
actions (including cleaning or replacing blocked drain tubes, repairing
fluid leaks, and cleaning the inlet drain screen on the right system
disconnect assembly inlet). Do all applicable corrective actions before
further flight. Alternate tee fitting part numbers BACT16BR120612JN and
AS4139J120612 may be used during the replacement of the forward strut
drain lines, provided the installation is performed in accordance with
the Accomplishment Instructions of Boeing Special Attention Service
Bulletin 777-54-0027, Revision 1, dated September 12, 2013.
(2) Do a one-time cleaning of the smaller forward strut drain lines
connected to the left systems disconnect, the strut forward lower spar,
and the forward fire seal pan inlets.
(h) Exception to the Service Information Specifications
Where Boeing Special Attention Service Bulletin 777-54-0027,
Revision 1, dated September 12, 2013, refers to a compliance time
``after the Revision 1 date of this Service Bulletin,'' this AD
requires compliance within the specified compliance time after the
effective date of this AD.
(i) Optional Terminating Action
Accomplishment of the actions specified in paragraphs (i)(1)
through (i)(4) of this AD, for both the left and right struts, in
accordance with the Accomplishment Instructions of Boeing Special
Attention Service Bulletin 777-71-0055, Revision 1, dated April 15,
2015, and accomplishment of the revision specified in paragraph (i)(5)
of this AD, terminates the repetitive functional checks required by
paragraph (g)(1) of this AD at the modified area only.
(1) Disconnect and remove the forward strut drain lines.
(2) Clean the left systems disconnect, the strut forward lower
spar, and the forward fireseal pan drain lines.
(3) Install new forward strut drain lines and insulation blankets.
(4) Do a leak check of the forward strut drain lines, for any leak,
and repair if any leaking is found.
(5) Revise the maintenance or inspection program, as applicable, to
incorporate Airworthiness Limitation 54-AWL-01, ``Forward Strut Drain
Line'', Section D.4, Pratt and Whitney Forward Strut Drain Line, of the
Boeing 777 Maintenance Planning Data (MPD) Document Section 9,
Airworthiness Limitations (AWLs) and Certification Maintenance
Requirements (CMRs), D622W001-9, Revision October 2014. The initial
compliance time for Airworthiness Limitation 54-AWL-01 is within 2,000
flight cycles or 1,500 days, whichever occurs first, after doing the
actions specified in paragraphs (i)(1) through (i)(4) of this AD.
(j) No Alternative Actions or Intervals
After accomplishing the revision required by paragraph (i)(5) of
this AD, no alternative actions (e.g., inspections) or intervals may be
used unless the actions or intervals are approved as an alternative
method of compliance (AMOC) in accordance with the procedures specified
in paragraph (l) of this AD.
(k) Credit for Previous Actions
This paragraph provides credit for actions required by paragraph
(i) of this AD, if those actions were performed before the effective
date of this AD using Boeing Special Attention Service Bulletin 777-71-
0055, dated June 12, 2014, which is not incorporated by reference in
this AD.
(l) Alternative Methods of Compliance (AMOCs)
(1) The Manager, Seattle Aircraft Certification Office (ACO), 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 ACO, send it to the attention of the person identified
in paragraph (m)(1) of this AD. Information may be emailed to: [email protected].
(2) Before using any approved AMOC, notify your appropriate
principal inspector, or lacking a principal inspector, the manager of
the local flight standards district office/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 the Boeing
Commercial Airplanes Organization Designation Authorization (ODA) that
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, and the approval must specifically
refer to this AD.
(m) Related Information
(1) For more information about this AD, contact Kevin Nguyen,
Aerospace Engineer, Propulsion Branch, ANM-140S, FAA, Seattle Aircraft
Certification Office, 1601 Lind Avenue SW., Renton, WA 98057-3356;
phone: 425-917-6501; fax: 425-917-6590; email: [email protected].
(2) Service information identified in this AD that is not
incorporated by reference is available at the addresses specified in
paragraphs (n)(3) and (n)(4) of this AD.
(n) 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
[[Page 52953]]
actions required by this AD, unless the AD specifies otherwise.
(i) Boeing Special Attention Service Bulletin 777-54-0027, Revision
1, dated September 12, 2013.
(ii) Boeing Special Attention Service Bulletin 777-71-0055,
Revision 1, dated April 15, 2015.
(iii) Airworthiness Limitation 54-AWL-01, ``Forward Strut Drain
Line'', Section D.4, Pratt and Whitney Forward Strut Drain Line, of the
Boeing 777 Maintenance Planning Data (MPD) Document Section 9,
Airworthiness Limitations (AWLs) and Certification Maintenance
Requirements (CMRs), D622W001-9, Revision October 2014.
(3) For service information identified in this AD, contact Boeing
Commercial Airplanes, Attention: Data & Services Management, P. O. Box
3707, MC 2H-65, Seattle, WA 98124-2207; telephone 206-544-5000,
extension 1; fax 206-766-5680; Internet https://www.myboeingfleet.com.
(4) You may view this service information at FAA, Transport
Airplane Directorate, 1601 Lind Avenue SW., Renton, WA. For information
on the availability of this material at the FAA, call 425-227-1221.
(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, call 202-
741-6030, or go to: http://www.archives.gov/federal-register/cfr/ibr-locations.html.
Issued in Renton, Washington, on August 14, 2015.
Michael Kaszycki,
Acting Manager, Transport Airplane Directorate, Aircraft Certification
Service.
[FR Doc. 2015-20696 Filed 9-1-15; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE 4910-13-P
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