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Published 2009-11-30 · Federal Register document E9-28236

Airworthiness Directives; General Electric Company (GE) CF34-1A, CF34-3A, and CF34-3B Series Turbofan Engines

Publication summary

The FAA is adopting a new airworthiness directive (AD) for GE CF34-1A, CF34-3A, and CF34-3B series turbofan engines. This AD requires removing from service certain part number (P/N) and serial number (SN) fan blades within compliance times specified in this AD, inspecting the fan blade abradable rub strip on certain engines for wear, inspecting the fan blades on certain engines for cracks, inspecting the aft actuator head hose fitting for correct position, and, if necessary, repositioning the hose fitting. This AD results from a report of an under-cowl fire and a failed fan blade. We are issuing this AD to prevent failure of certain P/N and SN fan blades and aft actuator head hoses, which could result in an under-cowl fire and subsequent damage to the airplane.

Why this record is shown

Source: Federal Register annual FAA metadata. Acquired 2026-09-03T22:23:30.011257+00:00. The title, summary and date are source facts.

Source revision
federal_register_ad_metadata_2009-cb57e588bd107238
Source row
results[335]
Raw source SHA-256
cb57e588bd10723805ef0ea28ddc0685de14711012023c7e7d12178879efaeed

Final-rule publication

Recorded publication clauses

AD identifier printed in this edition
2009-24-11
Effective date printed in this edition
2010-01-04
Read 12 complete recorded clauses
Effective Date
Effective Date

    (a) This airworthiness directive (AD) becomes effective January 
4, 2010.

Exact source excerpt. Text positions 14529–14624, end exclusive, in the original decoded publication. SHA-256: 3c086cde1c8726e350e7a71614afc1e162ad2abb7c7bcf226b34e86d29845bf3

Affected ADs
Affected ADs

    (b) None.

Exact source excerpt. Text positions 14624–14653, end exclusive, in the original decoded publication. SHA-256: 027fbc44617399472b6ac4741da3aee18448654374228bcf4fe3f01df6b1539b

Applicability wording · Applicability
Applicability

    (c) This AD applies to General Electric Company (GE) CF34-1A, 
CF34-3A, CF34-3A1, CF34-3A2, CF34-3B, and CF34-3B1 turbofan engines. 
These engines are installed on, but not limited to, Bombardier 
Canadair Models CL-600-2A12, CL-600-2B16, and CL-600-2B19 airplanes.

Exact source excerpt. Text positions 14653–14939, end exclusive, in the original decoded publication. SHA-256: 95b2fb2843fc2624abaea3f34138090e50343b58823570621eff6732e2d255d9

Unsafe Condition
Unsafe Condition

    (d) This AD results from a report of an under-cowl fire and a 
failed fan blade. We are issuing this AD to prevent failure of 
certain part number (P/N) and serial number (SN) fan blades and aft 
actuator head hoses, which could result in an under-cowl fire and 
subsequent damage to the airplane.

Exact source excerpt. Text positions 14939–15260, end exclusive, in the original decoded publication. SHA-256: 6b3623892589fde7e83276d96fb84855e41f01cf9f3757807ef877ed653df6c0

Compliance
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.

Exact source excerpt. Text positions 15260–15438, end exclusive, in the original decoded publication. SHA-256: 64a7a1579f37f56eafecd0aeb3c528e7c89f6292ed0cb53091423917642d5847

CF34-3A1 and CF34-3B1 Engines
CF34-3A1 and CF34-3B1 Engines

    (f) For CF34-3A1 engines with fan drive shaft, P/N 6036T78P02, 
and airworthiness limitation section life limit of 22,000 CSN; and
    (g) For CF34-3A1 engines with fan drive shaft, P/N 6036T78P02, 
and airworthiness limitation section life limit of 15,000 CSN that 
are in compliance with GE Aircraft Engines (GEAE) Service Bulletin 
(SB) CF34-AL S/B 72-0147, dated May 21, 2003, Revision 01, dated 
October 17, 2003, Revision 02, dated August 5, 2004, or Revision 3, 
dated August 28, 2003; and
    (h) For CF34-3B1 engines with fan blades, P/Ns 6018T30P14 or 
4923T56G08, that have a fan blade SN listed in Appendix A of GEAE SB 
CF34-AL S/B 72-0245, Revision 01, dated July 30, 2008;
    (i) Do the following for the engines meeting the criteria in 
paragraph (f), (g), or (h) of this AD, as applicable:
    (1) Remove fan blades from service within 4,000 cycles-in-
service (CIS) after the effective date of this AD or by December 31, 
2010, whichever occurs first.

Initial Visual Inspection of the Fan Blade Abradable Rub Strip for Wear

    (2) For fan blades with 1,200 or more cycles-since-new (CSN) on 
the effective date of this AD, perform an initial visual inspection 
of the fan blade abradable rub strip for wear within 20 CIS after 
the effective date of this AD. Use paragraphs 3.A.(1) through 
3.A.(2) of the Accomplishment

[[Page 62484]]

Instructions of GEAE SB CF34-AL S/B 72-0250, Revision 01, dated 
November 26, 2008, to perform the inspection.
    (3) For fan blades with fewer than 1,200 CSN on the effective 
date of this AD, perform an initial visual inspection of the fan 
blade abradable rub strip for wear within 1,220 CSN. Use paragraphs 
3.A.(1) through 3.A.(2) of the Accomplishment Instructions of GEAE 
SB CF34-AL S/B 72-0250, Revision 01, dated November 26, 2008, to 
perform the inspection.
    (4) If you find a continuous 360 degree rub indication, before 
further flight, visually inspect the fan blades using paragraphs 
3.A.(2)(a) through 3.A.(2)(b) of the Accomplishment Instructions of 
GEAE SB CF34-AL S/B 72-0250, Revision 01, dated November 26, 2008.
    (5) If you find a crack in the retaining pin holes of the fan 
blade, remove the blade from service.

Repetitive Visual Inspection of the Fan Blade Abradable Rub Strip for 
Wear

    (6) Within 75 cycles-since-last inspection (CSLI) or 100 hours-
since-last-inspection (HSLI), whichever occurs later, perform a 
visual inspection of the fan blade abradable rub strip for wear. Use 
paragraphs 3.A.(1) through 3.A.(2) of the Accomplishment 
Instructions of GEAE SB CF34-AL S/B 72-0250, Revision 01, dated 
November 26, 2008, to perform the inspection.
    (i) If you find a continuous 360 degree rub indication, before 
further flight, visually inspect the fan blades using paragraphs 
3.A.(2)(a) through 3.A.(2)(b) of the Accomplishment Instructions of 
GEAE SB CF34-AL S/B 72-0250, Revision 01, dated November 26, 2008.
    (ii) If you find a crack in the retaining pin holes of the fan 
blade, remove the blade from service.

Inspection of the Aft Actuator Head Hose Fitting on CF34-3A1 and CF34-
3B1 Engines

    (7) Within 750 hours time-in-service (TIS) after the effective 
date of this AD, visually inspect and, if necessary, reposition the 
aft actuator head hose fitting. Use paragraph 3.A of the 
Accomplishment Instructions of GEAE SB CF34-AL S/B 73-0046, Revision 
02, dated August 27, 2008, to perform the inspection.

Exact source excerpt. Text positions 15438–18910, end exclusive, in the original decoded publication. SHA-256: ccdeb42e8a9f589a89d39300c6b0c7bc0353fec4474926e134a000c597367359

CF34-1A, CF34-3A, CF34-3A2, CF34-3B, and CF34-3A1 Engines
CF34-1A, CF34-3A, CF34-3A2, CF34-3B, and CF34-3A1 Engines

    (j) For CF34-3A1 engines with fan drive shaft, P/N 6036T78P02, 
and airworthiness limitation section life limit of 15,000 CSN, that 
are not in compliance with GEAE SB CF34-AL S/B 72-0147, dated May 
21, 2003, Revision 01, dated October 17, 2003, Revision 02, dated 
August 5, 2004, or Revision 3, dated August 28, 2003; and
    (k) For CF34-1A, CF34-3A, CF34-3A2, and CF34-3B engines with fan 
blades, P/N 6018T30P14 or P/N 4923T56G08, that have a fan blade SN 
listed in Appendix A of GEAE SB CF34-BJ S/B 72-0229, Revision 01, 
dated July 30, 2008;
    (l) Do the following for the engines meeting the criteria in 
paragraph (j) or (k) of this AD as applicable:
    (1) Remove fan blades, P/N 6018T30P14, from service within 2,400 
CSN.
    (2) Remove fan blades, P/N 4923T56G08, from service within 1,200 
CIS since the bushing repair of the fan blade hole.

Initial Eddy Current Inspection of the Fan Blades

    (3) For fan blades, P/N 6018T30P14, with more than 850 CSN, 
perform an initial eddy current inspection (ECI) of the fan blades 
for cracks within 350 CIS after the effective date of this AD. Use 
paragraphs 3.A. or 3.B. of the Accomplishment Instructions of GEAE 
SB CF34-BJ S/B 72-0229, Revision 01, dated July 30, 2008, to perform 
the inspection.
    (4) For fan blades, P/N 6018T30P14, with 850 or fewer CSN on the 
effective date of this AD, perform an initial ECI of the fan blades 
for cracks within 1,200 CSN. Use paragraphs 3.A. or 3.B. of the 
Accomplishment Instructions of GEAE SB CF34-BJ S/B 72-0229, Revision 
01, dated July 30, 2008, to perform the inspection.
    (5) If you find a crack in the retaining pin holes of the fan 
blade, remove the blade from service.

Repetitive ECI of the Fan Blades

    (6) For fan blades, P/N 6018T30P14, within 600 CSLI, perform an 
ECI of the fan blades for cracks. Use paragraphs 3.A. or 3.B. of the 
Accomplishment Instructions of GEAE SB CF34-BJ S/B 72-0229, Revision 
01, dated July 30, 2008, to perform the inspection.
    (7) If you find a crack in the retaining pin holes of the fan 
blade, remove the blade from service.

Initial Visual Inspection of the Fan Blade Abradable Rub Strip for Wear

    (8) For engines with fan blades, P/N 6018T30P14, installed that 
have a fan blade SN listed in Appendix A of GEAE SB CF34-BJ S/B 72-
0229, Revision 01, dated July 30, 2008, with 1,200 or more CSN on 
the effective date of this AD, and that haven't had an ECI of the 
fan blades for cracks, do the following:
    (i) Perform an initial inspection of the fan blade abradable rub 
strip for wear within 20 CIS after the effective date of this AD. 
Use paragraph 3.A.(1) of the Accomplishment Instructions of GEAE SB 
CF34-BJ S/B 72-0231, Revision 02, dated November 26, 2008, to 
perform the inspection.
    (ii) If you find a continuous 360 degree rub indication, before 
further flight, perform a visual inspection of the fan blades for 
cracks. Use paragraphs 3.A(2)(a) or 3.A(2)(b) of the Accomplishment 
Instructions of GEAE SB CF34-BJ S/B 72-0231, Revision 02, dated 
November 26, 2008, to perform the inspection.
    (iii) If you find a crack in the retaining pin holes of the fan 
blade, remove the blade from service.

Repetitive Inspection of the Fan Blade Abradable Rub Strip for Wear

    (9) For engines with fan blades, P/N 6018T30P14, installed, if 
you have performed an ECI of the fan blade, you don't need to 
inspect the fan blade abradable rub strip for wear.
    (10) For engines with fan blades, P/N 6018T30P14, installed, 
within 75 CSLI or 100 HSLI, whichever occurs later, do the 
following:
    (i) Perform a visual inspection of the fan blade abradable rub 
strip for wear. Use paragraph 3.A.(1) of the Accomplishment 
Instructions of GEAE SB CF34-BJ S/B 72-0231, Revision 02, dated 
November 26, 2008, to perform the inspection.
    (ii) If you find a continuous 360 degree rub indication, before 
further flight, visually inspect the fan blades using paragraphs 
3.A.(2)(a) through 3.A.(2)(b) of the Accomplishment Instructions of 
GEAE SB CF34-BJ S/B 72-0231, Revision 02, dated November 26, 2008.
    (iii) If you find a crack in the retaining pin holes of the fan 
blade, remove the blade from service.

Inspection of the Aft Actuator Head Hose Fitting on CF34-3A1 and CF34-
3B Engines

    (11) For CF34-3A1 engines, within 300 hours TIS after the 
effective date of this AD, visually inspect and, if necessary, 
reposition the aft actuator head hose fitting. Use paragraph 3.A of 
the Accomplishment Instructions of GEAE SB CF34-BJ S/B 73-0062, 
Revision 02, dated August 27, 2008, to perform the inspection.
    (12) For CF34-3B engines, within 400 hours TIS after the 
effective date of this AD, visually inspect and, if necessary, 
reposition the aft actuator head hose fitting. Use paragraph 3.A of 
the Accomplishment Instructions of GEAE SB CF34-BJ S/B 73-0062, 
Revision 02, dated August 27, 2008, to perform the inspection.

Exact source excerpt. Text positions 18910–23915, end exclusive, in the original decoded publication. SHA-256: 17848c49bb6c3c7d13891298df03933f366a9490dd9fd1f9aa34d258e672de79

Credit for Previous Actions
Credit for Previous Actions

    (m) Inspections previously performed using the following GEAE 
SBs meet the requirements specified in the indicated paragraphs:
    (1) CF34-AL S/B 72-0250, dated August 15, 2008, meet the 
requirements specified in paragraphs (i)(2) through (i)(4) of this 
AD.
    (2) CF34-AL S/B 73-0046, Revision 01, dated July 1, 2008, or 
earlier issue, meet the requirements specified in paragraph (i)(7) 
of this AD.
    (3) CF34-BJ S/B 72-0229, dated April 10, 2008, meet the 
requirements specified in paragraphs (l)(3) and (l)(4) of this AD.
    (4) CF34-BJ S/B 72-0231, Revision 01, dated October 1, 2008, or 
earlier issue, meet the requirements specified in paragraphs 
(l)(10)(i) and (l)(10)(ii) of this AD.
    (5) CF34-BJ S/B 73-0062, Revision 01, dated July 1, 2008, or 
earlier issue, meet the requirements specified in paragraphs (l)(11) 
and (l)(12) of this AD.

Exact source excerpt. Text positions 23915–24815, end exclusive, in the original decoded publication. SHA-256: d4a310d413e852b32baf8081ae05b616e6a2f2d301b356c56d07c2b3792e2229

Installation Prohibitions
Installation Prohibitions

    (n) After the effective date of this AD:
    (1) Do not install any fan blade into any CF34-3A1 engine with 
fan drive shaft, P/N 6036T78P02, with an airworthiness limitation 
section life limit of 22,000 CSN if that fan blade:
    (i) Was installed in a CF34-3A1 engine with fan drive shaft, P/N 
6036T78P02, with an airworthiness limitation section life limit of 
15,000 CSN; and
    (ii) Is listed in Appendix A of GEAE SB CF34-BJ S/B 72-0229, 
Revision 01, dated July 30, 2008; or
    (iii) Is listed in Appendix A of GEAE SB CF34-BJ S/B 72-0230, 
Revision 01, dated July 30, 2008.

[[Page 62485]]

    (2) Do not install any fan blade into any CF34-3A1 engine with 
fan drive shaft, P/N 6036T78P02, with an airworthiness limitation 
section life limit of 15,000 CSN if that fan blade:
    (i) Was installed in any CF34-3A1 engine with fan drive shaft, 
P/N 6036T78P02, with an airworthiness limitation section life limit 
of 22,000 CSN and,
    (ii) Is listed in Appendix A of GEAE SB CF34-AL S/B 72-0245, 
Revision 01, dated July 3, 2008.

Exact source excerpt. Text positions 24815–25892, end exclusive, in the original decoded publication. SHA-256: a483be5fa0c28795ad65340c9dc488fe05bd3a931bb29433aa5a2b7ab2449cda

Alternative Methods of Compliance
Alternative Methods of Compliance

    (o) The Manager, Engine Certification Office, has the authority 
to approve alternative methods of compliance for this AD if 
requested using the procedures found in 14 CFR 39.19.

Exact source excerpt. Text positions 25892–26112, end exclusive, in the original decoded publication. SHA-256: 851f72932b7acfda45331039d399534705a180e84156678ef0905ca2bc1935a6

Related Information
Related Information

    (p) Contact John Frost, Aerospace Engineer, Engine Certification 
Office, FAA, Engine & Propeller Directorate, 12 New England 
Executive Park, Burlington, MA 01803; e-mail: [email protected]; 
telephone (781) 238-7756; fax (781) 238-7199, for more information 
about this AD.

Exact source excerpt. Text positions 26112–26414, end exclusive, in the original decoded publication. SHA-256: 19a5075dd57e98e48c67a278b04a293e34a3b8bcf719829499e3fa1974a3aac8

Material Incorporated by Reference
Material Incorporated by Reference

    (q) You must use the GE Aircraft Engines service information 
specified in the following Table 1 to do the actions required by 
this AD.

                                   Table 1--Material Incorporated by Reference
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
        Service Bulletin No.                    Page               Revision                   Date
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
CF34-AL S/B 73-0046 Total Pages: 8..  All.....................              02  August 27, 2008.
CF34-BJ S/B 73-0062 Total Pages: 8..  All.....................              02  August 27, 2008.
CF34-BJ S/B 72-0229 Total Pages: 158  All.....................              01  July 30, 2008.
CF34-BJ S/B 72-0230 Total Pages: 153  All.....................              01  July 30, 2008.
CF34-BJ S/B 72-0231 Total Pages: 8..  All.....................              02  November 26, 2008.
CF34-AL S/B 72-0245 Total Pages: 153  All.....................              01  July 03, 2008.
CF34-AL S/B 72-0250 Total Pages: 9..  All.....................              01  November 26, 2008.
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

     (1) The Director of the Federal Register approved the 
incorporation by reference of this service information under 5 
U.S.C. 552(a) and 1 CFR part 51.
    (2) For service information identified in this AD, contact 
General Electric Company, GE-Aviation, Room 285, 1 Newmann Way, 
Cincinnati, OH 45215, telephone (513) 552-3272; fax (513) 552-3329; 
e-mail: [email protected].
    (3) You may review copies at the FAA, New England Region, 12 New 
England Executive Park, Burlington, MA; or 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 26414–28503, end exclusive, in the original decoded publication. SHA-256: 20e8c356cedac8bbf912ac6ac5471e02465f2c9d77f9a10d00828e281617944f

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 2009-24-11 · 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: 0728e5ad31e5cf4d95845fe7613927ba83cadb250c4a6993599b9aac017ad068. Source manifest: b33d10a84cb7612984c01187d44c828524b401cf4ec3345088b26cf752e66828.

Official source · 2009-11-30

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 74, Number 228 (Monday, November 30, 2009)]
[Rules and Regulations]
[Pages 62481-62485]
From the Federal Register Online via the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]
[FR Doc No: E9-28236]


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

DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION

Federal Aviation Administration

14 CFR Part 39

[Docket No. FAA-2009-0328; Directorate Identifier 2008-NE-44-AD; 
Amendment 39-16103; AD 2009-24-11]
RIN 2120-AA64


Airworthiness Directives; General Electric Company (GE) CF34-1A, 
CF34-3A, and CF34-3B Series Turbofan Engines

AGENCY: Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), DOT.

ACTION: Final rule.

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

SUMMARY: The FAA is adopting a new airworthiness directive (AD) for GE 
CF34-1A, CF34-3A, and CF34-3B series turbofan engines. This AD requires 
removing from service certain part number (P/N) and serial number (SN) 
fan blades within compliance times specified in this AD, inspecting the 
fan blade abradable rub strip on certain engines for wear, inspecting 
the fan blades on certain engines for cracks, inspecting the aft 
actuator head hose fitting for correct position, and, if necessary, 
repositioning the hose fitting. This AD results from a report of an 
under-cowl fire and a failed fan blade. We are issuing this AD to 
prevent failure of certain P/N and SN fan blades and aft actuator head 
hoses, which could result in an under-cowl fire and subsequent damage 
to the airplane.

DATES: This AD becomes effective January 4, 2010. The Director of the 
Federal Register approved the incorporation by reference of certain 
publications listed in the regulations as of January 4, 2010.

ADDRESSES: You can get the service information identified in this AD 
from General Electric Company, GE-Aviation, Room 285, 1 Newmann Way, 
Cincinnati, OH 45215, telephone (513) 552--3272; fax (513) 552-3329; e-
mail: [email protected]. The Docket Operations office is located at 
Docket Management Facility, U.S. Department of Transportation, 1200 New 
Jersey Avenue, SE., West Building Ground Floor, Room W12-140, 
Washington, DC 20590-0001.

FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: John Frost, Aerospace Engineer, Engine 
Certification Office, FAA, Engine & Propeller Directorate, 12 New 
England Executive Park, Burlington, MA 01803; e-mail: 
[email protected]; telephone (781) 238-7756; fax (781) 238-7199.

SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: The FAA proposed to amend 14 CFR part 39 
with a proposed AD. The proposed AD applies to GE CF34-1A, CF34-3A, and 
CF34-3B series turbofan engines. We published the proposed AD in the 
Federal Register on April 8, 2009 (74 FR 15896). That action proposed 
to require removing from service certain P/N and SN fan blades within 
compliance times specified in the proposed AD, inspecting the fan blade 
abradable rub strip on certain engines for wear, inspecting the fan 
blades on certain engines for cracks, inspecting the aft actuator head 
hose fitting for correct position, and, if necessary, repositioning the 
hose fitting.

[[Page 62482]]

Examining the AD Docket

    You may examine the AD docket on the Internet at http://www.regulations.gov; or in person at the Docket Operations office 
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 street address for 
the Docket Operations office (telephone (800) 647-5527) is provided in 
the ADDRESSES section. Comments will be available in the AD docket 
shortly after receipt.

Comments

    We provided the public the opportunity to participate in the 
development of this AD. We have considered the comments received.

Request To Modify Wording in Compliance Paragraphs (f)(2) Through 
(f)(6)(ii)

    One commenter requests that we modify the wording in proposed AD 
compliance paragraphs (f)(2) through (f)(6)(ii), by adding words that 
the actions required by GEAE SB CF34-AL S/B 72-0250 apply only to those 
engines that have not had the actions of GEAE SB CF34-AL S/B 72-0245 
performed. The commenter states that GEAE SB CF34-AL S/B 72-0250 only 
applies to fan blades with SNs listed in GEAE SB CF34-AL S/B 72-0245.
    We do not agree. The proposed AD stated in paragraph (f) that only 
fan blade SNs listed in GEAE SB CF34-AL S/B 72-0245 are affected. That 
paragraph is now paragraph (h) in this AD, as we recodified the AD 
paragraphs to add clarification in response to another comment we 
received. We did not change the AD.

Request for Eddy Current Inspection (ECI) for Fan Blades That Have More 
than 1,200 Cycles-In-Service (CIS)

    Bombardier Flexjet and GE Aviation request that we also include an 
ECI in the AD for fan blades that have more than 1,200 CIS on the 
effective date of the AD.
    We agree. We changed proposed AD paragraph from ``(g)(3) For fan 
blades, P/N 6018T30P14, with more than 850 cycles-since-new (CSN), but 
fewer than 1,200 CSN on the effective date of this AD, within 350 CIS 
after the effective date of this AD, perform an initial ECI of the fan 
blades for cracks'' to ``(k)(3) For fan blades, P/N 6018T30P14, with 
more than 850 CSN, perform an initial ECI of the fan blades for cracks 
within 350 CIS after the effective date of this AD'' in this AD.

Under-Cowl Fire Determination of Cause Not Consistent

    GE Aviation states that, in the Discussion section of the proposed 
AD, the statement that it was not possible to determine the cause of 
the under-cowl fire was not consistent with the GE fire investigation. 
GE stated that their fire investigation concluded that the most 
probable cause of the under-cowl fire was the separation of the 
variable geometry aft actuator head hose from the fuel control.
    We do not agree. The exact cause of the fire could not be 
determined due to the thermal damage. We did not change the AD.

Clarification of Gearbox Separation Statement

    GE Aviation states that, in the Discussion section of the proposed 
AD, the statement that the gearbox separated from the engine needs 
clarification. GE Aviation states that the gearbox is designed to 
uncouple from the engine during high-load events such as a fan blade 
out, and the gearbox is secured to the engine by secondary restraint 
cables. This uncoupling occurred on the left-hand mount, and should not 
have contributed to the hose failure if the hose was properly aligned.
    We do not agree. The wording is factually correct, and we did not 
state that the separation caused the fire. We did not change the AD.

Claim That the Fire Event Was a Controlled Fire

    GE Aviation claims that the event that this AD results from was a 
``controlled fire'' as the fire had been put out and did not create a 
hazard for the airplane.
    We do not agree. The fire continued to burn unabated until the 
unidentified fuel source was exhausted. We did not change the AD.

Recommendation To Include GE Remote Diagnostics

    GE Aviation and Mesaba Airlines recommend that GE Remote 
Diagnostics be included in proposed AD compliance paragraph (f)(6) as 
an alternate method of compliance (AMOC) for monitoring blade health. 
GE Aviation also recommends that we allow a recurrent ECI at 600-cycle 
intervals for consistency between the Regional Jet and Business Jet 
operators. GE Aviation states that the fan blade tang cracking 
algorithms developed by GE have been validated analytically, as well as 
in the field, and contributed substantially to finding three cracked 
blades during 2008.
    We do not agree. We cannot include the GE Remote Diagnostics 
program, because it is a program outside regulatory control. Further, 
the program cannot replace a visual inspection to verify fan blade 
cracks. Finally, no GE service bulletin requirement or FAA requirement 
exists for ECI of the fan blades operating in engines in the Regional 
Jet operations. We did not change the AD.

Request To Revise the Wording in Proposed AD Compliance Paragraphs (f) 
and (g)

    GE Aviation requests that we revise the wording in proposed AD 
compliance paragraphs (f) and (g) to clarify our instructions related 
to operators who fly a Regional Jet with a CF34-3A1 engine in a 
Business jet application. The commenter states that GEAE SB CF34-AL S/B 
72-0245 and SB CF34-AL S/B 72-0250 apply to a small number of Business 
Jet operators with the CF34-3A1 engine, who fly under the Regional jet 
manual.
    We agree. We changed the compliance section in this AD by adding 
the requested information and by recodifying the paragraphs.

Request To Correct a Typographical Error

    GE Aviation requests that we correct a service bulletin issue date 
in paragraph (f), to be July 30, 2008.
    We agree. We corrected the date in the AD, which is now in 
paragraph (h).

Request To Remove Inspection of Rubstrips at CSN

    Mesaba Airlines requests that we remove the requirements to inspect 
the fan blade rub strips on fan blades with more than 1,200 CSN, within 
20 CIS of the AD effective date, and on fan blades with fewer than 
1,200 CSN, by 1,220 CSN. The commenter requests that we add a rub strip 
inspection every 75 CIS or 100 hours-in-service, until the fan blades 
are replaced. The commenter states that it is difficult to know the CSN 
on each fan blade.
    We do not agree. To reduce the risk of fan blade failure, the rub 
strips need to be inspected as required in the AD. We did not change 
the AD.

Include a Process for Determining Fan Blade Cyclic Limits

    Mesaba Airlines states that the FAA should include a process for 
determining cyclic limits if the fan blades CIS were not established 
when the fan blades were introduced into service.
    We do not agree. If operators do not track fan blade time or CIS, 
they will need to apply for an alternative method

[[Page 62483]]

of compliance (AMOC) to this AD. We did not change the AD.

Request for Separate ADs

    Mesaba Airlines requests that we issue separate ADs for the 
Regional Jet fleet and the Business Jet fleet. The commenter feels the 
proposed AD is far too complex.
    We do not agree. The compliance section in the proposed AD is 
sufficiently direct. We did not change the AD.

Request To Define Terms

    Mesaba Airlines requests that we define the terms ``CSLI'' and 
``HSLI'' in the proposed AD compliance section.
    In response, we note that we already did, and direct Mesaba 
Airlines to paragraph (f)(6) in the proposed AD, and in this AD, to 
compliance paragraph (h)(6).

Request To Not Include Service Bulletin Requirements

    Mesaba Airlines requests that we not include the requirements of 
paragraph 3.A.(2)(d) of GEAE SB CF34-AL S/B 72-0250 in the AD.
    We agree. We did not include those requirements in the AD.

Conclusion

    We have carefully reviewed the available data, including the 
comments received, and determined that air safety and the public 
interest require adopting the AD with the changes described previously. 
We have determined that these changes will neither increase the 
economic burden on any operator nor increase the scope of the AD.

Costs of Compliance

    We estimate that this AD will affect 1,966 engines installed on 
airplanes of U.S. registry. We estimate that the fan blade inspection 
and replacement requirement will affect 300 of these engines, and the 
actuator head hose inspection would affect 1,662 engines. We also 
estimate that it will take 0.5 work-hour per engine to inspect the fan 
blade abradable rub strip, 6 work-hours per engine to visually inspect 
the fan blades, 11 work-hours per engine to perform an eddy current 
inspection of the fan blades, and 0.25 work-hour per engine to inspect 
the actuator head hose fitting, and that the average labor rate is $80 
per work-hour. Required parts will cost $51,106,600. Based on these 
figures, we estimate the total cost of the AD to U.S. operators to be 
$51,184,000.

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 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); 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 summary of the costs to comply with this AD and 
placed it in the AD Docket. You may get a copy of this summary at the 
address listed under ADDRESSES.

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 Federal Aviation Administration 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:

2009-24-11 General Electric Company: Amendment 39-16103. Docket No. 
FAA-2009-0328; Directorate Identifier 2008-NE-44-AD.

Effective Date

    (a) This airworthiness directive (AD) becomes effective January 
4, 2010.

Affected ADs

    (b) None.

Applicability

    (c) This AD applies to General Electric Company (GE) CF34-1A, 
CF34-3A, CF34-3A1, CF34-3A2, CF34-3B, and CF34-3B1 turbofan engines. 
These engines are installed on, but not limited to, Bombardier 
Canadair Models CL-600-2A12, CL-600-2B16, and CL-600-2B19 airplanes.

Unsafe Condition

    (d) This AD results from a report of an under-cowl fire and a 
failed fan blade. We are issuing this AD to prevent failure of 
certain part number (P/N) and serial number (SN) fan blades and aft 
actuator head hoses, which could result in an under-cowl fire and 
subsequent damage to the airplane.

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.

CF34-3A1 and CF34-3B1 Engines

    (f) For CF34-3A1 engines with fan drive shaft, P/N 6036T78P02, 
and airworthiness limitation section life limit of 22,000 CSN; and
    (g) For CF34-3A1 engines with fan drive shaft, P/N 6036T78P02, 
and airworthiness limitation section life limit of 15,000 CSN that 
are in compliance with GE Aircraft Engines (GEAE) Service Bulletin 
(SB) CF34-AL S/B 72-0147, dated May 21, 2003, Revision 01, dated 
October 17, 2003, Revision 02, dated August 5, 2004, or Revision 3, 
dated August 28, 2003; and
    (h) For CF34-3B1 engines with fan blades, P/Ns 6018T30P14 or 
4923T56G08, that have a fan blade SN listed in Appendix A of GEAE SB 
CF34-AL S/B 72-0245, Revision 01, dated July 30, 2008;
    (i) Do the following for the engines meeting the criteria in 
paragraph (f), (g), or (h) of this AD, as applicable:
    (1) Remove fan blades from service within 4,000 cycles-in-
service (CIS) after the effective date of this AD or by December 31, 
2010, whichever occurs first.

Initial Visual Inspection of the Fan Blade Abradable Rub Strip for Wear

    (2) For fan blades with 1,200 or more cycles-since-new (CSN) on 
the effective date of this AD, perform an initial visual inspection 
of the fan blade abradable rub strip for wear within 20 CIS after 
the effective date of this AD. Use paragraphs 3.A.(1) through 
3.A.(2) of the Accomplishment

[[Page 62484]]

Instructions of GEAE SB CF34-AL S/B 72-0250, Revision 01, dated 
November 26, 2008, to perform the inspection.
    (3) For fan blades with fewer than 1,200 CSN on the effective 
date of this AD, perform an initial visual inspection of the fan 
blade abradable rub strip for wear within 1,220 CSN. Use paragraphs 
3.A.(1) through 3.A.(2) of the Accomplishment Instructions of GEAE 
SB CF34-AL S/B 72-0250, Revision 01, dated November 26, 2008, to 
perform the inspection.
    (4) If you find a continuous 360 degree rub indication, before 
further flight, visually inspect the fan blades using paragraphs 
3.A.(2)(a) through 3.A.(2)(b) of the Accomplishment Instructions of 
GEAE SB CF34-AL S/B 72-0250, Revision 01, dated November 26, 2008.
    (5) If you find a crack in the retaining pin holes of the fan 
blade, remove the blade from service.

Repetitive Visual Inspection of the Fan Blade Abradable Rub Strip for 
Wear

    (6) Within 75 cycles-since-last inspection (CSLI) or 100 hours-
since-last-inspection (HSLI), whichever occurs later, perform a 
visual inspection of the fan blade abradable rub strip for wear. Use 
paragraphs 3.A.(1) through 3.A.(2) of the Accomplishment 
Instructions of GEAE SB CF34-AL S/B 72-0250, Revision 01, dated 
November 26, 2008, to perform the inspection.
    (i) If you find a continuous 360 degree rub indication, before 
further flight, visually inspect the fan blades using paragraphs 
3.A.(2)(a) through 3.A.(2)(b) of the Accomplishment Instructions of 
GEAE SB CF34-AL S/B 72-0250, Revision 01, dated November 26, 2008.
    (ii) If you find a crack in the retaining pin holes of the fan 
blade, remove the blade from service.

Inspection of the Aft Actuator Head Hose Fitting on CF34-3A1 and CF34-
3B1 Engines

    (7) Within 750 hours time-in-service (TIS) after the effective 
date of this AD, visually inspect and, if necessary, reposition the 
aft actuator head hose fitting. Use paragraph 3.A of the 
Accomplishment Instructions of GEAE SB CF34-AL S/B 73-0046, Revision 
02, dated August 27, 2008, to perform the inspection.

CF34-1A, CF34-3A, CF34-3A2, CF34-3B, and CF34-3A1 Engines

    (j) For CF34-3A1 engines with fan drive shaft, P/N 6036T78P02, 
and airworthiness limitation section life limit of 15,000 CSN, that 
are not in compliance with GEAE SB CF34-AL S/B 72-0147, dated May 
21, 2003, Revision 01, dated October 17, 2003, Revision 02, dated 
August 5, 2004, or Revision 3, dated August 28, 2003; and
    (k) For CF34-1A, CF34-3A, CF34-3A2, and CF34-3B engines with fan 
blades, P/N 6018T30P14 or P/N 4923T56G08, that have a fan blade SN 
listed in Appendix A of GEAE SB CF34-BJ S/B 72-0229, Revision 01, 
dated July 30, 2008;
    (l) Do the following for the engines meeting the criteria in 
paragraph (j) or (k) of this AD as applicable:
    (1) Remove fan blades, P/N 6018T30P14, from service within 2,400 
CSN.
    (2) Remove fan blades, P/N 4923T56G08, from service within 1,200 
CIS since the bushing repair of the fan blade hole.

Initial Eddy Current Inspection of the Fan Blades

    (3) For fan blades, P/N 6018T30P14, with more than 850 CSN, 
perform an initial eddy current inspection (ECI) of the fan blades 
for cracks within 350 CIS after the effective date of this AD. Use 
paragraphs 3.A. or 3.B. of the Accomplishment Instructions of GEAE 
SB CF34-BJ S/B 72-0229, Revision 01, dated July 30, 2008, to perform 
the inspection.
    (4) For fan blades, P/N 6018T30P14, with 850 or fewer CSN on the 
effective date of this AD, perform an initial ECI of the fan blades 
for cracks within 1,200 CSN. Use paragraphs 3.A. or 3.B. of the 
Accomplishment Instructions of GEAE SB CF34-BJ S/B 72-0229, Revision 
01, dated July 30, 2008, to perform the inspection.
    (5) If you find a crack in the retaining pin holes of the fan 
blade, remove the blade from service.

Repetitive ECI of the Fan Blades

    (6) For fan blades, P/N 6018T30P14, within 600 CSLI, perform an 
ECI of the fan blades for cracks. Use paragraphs 3.A. or 3.B. of the 
Accomplishment Instructions of GEAE SB CF34-BJ S/B 72-0229, Revision 
01, dated July 30, 2008, to perform the inspection.
    (7) If you find a crack in the retaining pin holes of the fan 
blade, remove the blade from service.

Initial Visual Inspection of the Fan Blade Abradable Rub Strip for Wear

    (8) For engines with fan blades, P/N 6018T30P14, installed that 
have a fan blade SN listed in Appendix A of GEAE SB CF34-BJ S/B 72-
0229, Revision 01, dated July 30, 2008, with 1,200 or more CSN on 
the effective date of this AD, and that haven't had an ECI of the 
fan blades for cracks, do the following:
    (i) Perform an initial inspection of the fan blade abradable rub 
strip for wear within 20 CIS after the effective date of this AD. 
Use paragraph 3.A.(1) of the Accomplishment Instructions of GEAE SB 
CF34-BJ S/B 72-0231, Revision 02, dated November 26, 2008, to 
perform the inspection.
    (ii) If you find a continuous 360 degree rub indication, before 
further flight, perform a visual inspection of the fan blades for 
cracks. Use paragraphs 3.A(2)(a) or 3.A(2)(b) of the Accomplishment 
Instructions of GEAE SB CF34-BJ S/B 72-0231, Revision 02, dated 
November 26, 2008, to perform the inspection.
    (iii) If you find a crack in the retaining pin holes of the fan 
blade, remove the blade from service.

Repetitive Inspection of the Fan Blade Abradable Rub Strip for Wear

    (9) For engines with fan blades, P/N 6018T30P14, installed, if 
you have performed an ECI of the fan blade, you don't need to 
inspect the fan blade abradable rub strip for wear.
    (10) For engines with fan blades, P/N 6018T30P14, installed, 
within 75 CSLI or 100 HSLI, whichever occurs later, do the 
following:
    (i) Perform a visual inspection of the fan blade abradable rub 
strip for wear. Use paragraph 3.A.(1) of the Accomplishment 
Instructions of GEAE SB CF34-BJ S/B 72-0231, Revision 02, dated 
November 26, 2008, to perform the inspection.
    (ii) If you find a continuous 360 degree rub indication, before 
further flight, visually inspect the fan blades using paragraphs 
3.A.(2)(a) through 3.A.(2)(b) of the Accomplishment Instructions of 
GEAE SB CF34-BJ S/B 72-0231, Revision 02, dated November 26, 2008.
    (iii) If you find a crack in the retaining pin holes of the fan 
blade, remove the blade from service.

Inspection of the Aft Actuator Head Hose Fitting on CF34-3A1 and CF34-
3B Engines

    (11) For CF34-3A1 engines, within 300 hours TIS after the 
effective date of this AD, visually inspect and, if necessary, 
reposition the aft actuator head hose fitting. Use paragraph 3.A of 
the Accomplishment Instructions of GEAE SB CF34-BJ S/B 73-0062, 
Revision 02, dated August 27, 2008, to perform the inspection.
    (12) For CF34-3B engines, within 400 hours TIS after the 
effective date of this AD, visually inspect and, if necessary, 
reposition the aft actuator head hose fitting. Use paragraph 3.A of 
the Accomplishment Instructions of GEAE SB CF34-BJ S/B 73-0062, 
Revision 02, dated August 27, 2008, to perform the inspection.

Credit for Previous Actions

    (m) Inspections previously performed using the following GEAE 
SBs meet the requirements specified in the indicated paragraphs:
    (1) CF34-AL S/B 72-0250, dated August 15, 2008, meet the 
requirements specified in paragraphs (i)(2) through (i)(4) of this 
AD.
    (2) CF34-AL S/B 73-0046, Revision 01, dated July 1, 2008, or 
earlier issue, meet the requirements specified in paragraph (i)(7) 
of this AD.
    (3) CF34-BJ S/B 72-0229, dated April 10, 2008, meet the 
requirements specified in paragraphs (l)(3) and (l)(4) of this AD.
    (4) CF34-BJ S/B 72-0231, Revision 01, dated October 1, 2008, or 
earlier issue, meet the requirements specified in paragraphs 
(l)(10)(i) and (l)(10)(ii) of this AD.
    (5) CF34-BJ S/B 73-0062, Revision 01, dated July 1, 2008, or 
earlier issue, meet the requirements specified in paragraphs (l)(11) 
and (l)(12) of this AD.

Installation Prohibitions

    (n) After the effective date of this AD:
    (1) Do not install any fan blade into any CF34-3A1 engine with 
fan drive shaft, P/N 6036T78P02, with an airworthiness limitation 
section life limit of 22,000 CSN if that fan blade:
    (i) Was installed in a CF34-3A1 engine with fan drive shaft, P/N 
6036T78P02, with an airworthiness limitation section life limit of 
15,000 CSN; and
    (ii) Is listed in Appendix A of GEAE SB CF34-BJ S/B 72-0229, 
Revision 01, dated July 30, 2008; or
    (iii) Is listed in Appendix A of GEAE SB CF34-BJ S/B 72-0230, 
Revision 01, dated July 30, 2008.

[[Page 62485]]

    (2) Do not install any fan blade into any CF34-3A1 engine with 
fan drive shaft, P/N 6036T78P02, with an airworthiness limitation 
section life limit of 15,000 CSN if that fan blade:
    (i) Was installed in any CF34-3A1 engine with fan drive shaft, 
P/N 6036T78P02, with an airworthiness limitation section life limit 
of 22,000 CSN and,
    (ii) Is listed in Appendix A of GEAE SB CF34-AL S/B 72-0245, 
Revision 01, dated July 3, 2008.

Alternative Methods of Compliance

    (o) The Manager, Engine Certification Office, has the authority 
to approve alternative methods of compliance for this AD if 
requested using the procedures found in 14 CFR 39.19.

Related Information

    (p) Contact John Frost, Aerospace Engineer, Engine Certification 
Office, FAA, Engine & Propeller Directorate, 12 New England 
Executive Park, Burlington, MA 01803; e-mail: [email protected]; 
telephone (781) 238-7756; fax (781) 238-7199, for more information 
about this AD.

Material Incorporated by Reference

    (q) You must use the GE Aircraft Engines service information 
specified in the following Table 1 to do the actions required by 
this AD.

                                   Table 1--Material Incorporated by Reference
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
        Service Bulletin No.                    Page               Revision                   Date
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
CF34-AL S/B 73-0046 Total Pages: 8..  All.....................              02  August 27, 2008.
CF34-BJ S/B 73-0062 Total Pages: 8..  All.....................              02  August 27, 2008.
CF34-BJ S/B 72-0229 Total Pages: 158  All.....................              01  July 30, 2008.
CF34-BJ S/B 72-0230 Total Pages: 153  All.....................              01  July 30, 2008.
CF34-BJ S/B 72-0231 Total Pages: 8..  All.....................              02  November 26, 2008.
CF34-AL S/B 72-0245 Total Pages: 153  All.....................              01  July 03, 2008.
CF34-AL S/B 72-0250 Total Pages: 9..  All.....................              01  November 26, 2008.
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

     (1) The Director of the Federal Register approved the 
incorporation by reference of this service information under 5 
U.S.C. 552(a) and 1 CFR part 51.
    (2) For service information identified in this AD, contact 
General Electric Company, GE-Aviation, Room 285, 1 Newmann Way, 
Cincinnati, OH 45215, telephone (513) 552-3272; fax (513) 552-3329; 
e-mail: [email protected].
    (3) You may review copies at the FAA, New England Region, 12 New 
England Executive Park, Burlington, MA; or 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 Burlington, Massachusetts, on November 18, 2009.
Peter A. White,
Assistant Manager, Engine and Propeller Directorate, Aircraft 
Certification Service.
[FR Doc. E9-28236 Filed 11-27-09; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE 4910-13-P


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