[Federal Register Volume 75, Number 214 (Friday, November 5, 2010)]
[Rules and Regulations]
[Pages 68177-68179]
From the Federal Register Online via the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]
[FR Doc No: 2010-27610]


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DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION

Federal Aviation Administration

14 CFR Part 39

[Docket No. FAA-2010-1040; Directorate Identifier 2010-NM-207-AD; 
Amendment 39-16492; AD 2010-23-03]
RIN 2120-AA64


Airworthiness Directives; The Boeing Company Model 757 and 767 
Airplanes

AGENCY: Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), DOT.

ACTION: Final rule; request for comments.

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SUMMARY: We are adopting a new airworthiness directive (AD) for the 
products listed above. This AD requires repetitive testing for correct 
functioning of the engine indication and crew alerting system (EICAS) 
to ensure that it receives both the LOW FUEL and FUEL CONFIG discrete 
signals from the fuel quantity processor unit, and alerts the 
flightcrew of a low fuel situation, and if the test fails, 
troubleshooting to find wire faults and damaged equipment, and 
corrective actions if necessary. This AD was prompted by a report that 
the EICAS failed to alert the flightcrew of an improper fuel system 
configuration during flight. Later in that flight, the EICAS failed to 
alert the flightcrew that the fuel in the left- and right-hand main 
tanks was depleted below the minimum of 2,200 pounds. We are issuing 
this AD to detect and correct a single latent failure of the FUEL 
CONFIG discrete signal, which disables both the FUEL CONFIG and LOW 
FUEL messages. Such failure, combined with a flightcrew error in 
configuring the fuel system, could lead to depletion of the fuel in the 
main tanks and possible flame out of both engines. A dual engine flame 
out could result in inaccessibility of the remaining fuel in the center 
tank due to loss of electrical power to the pumps, consequent 
unrecoverable dual engine shutdown, and forced landing of the airplane.

DATES: This AD is effective November 22, 2010.
    The Director of the Federal Register approved the incorporation by 
reference of certain publications listed in the AD as of November 22, 
2010.
    We must receive comments on this AD by December 20, 2010.

ADDRESSES: You may send comments by any of the following methods:
     Federal eRulemaking Portal: Go to http://www.regulations.gov. Follow the instructions for submitting comments.
     Fax: 202-493-2251.
     Mail: U.S. Department of Transportation, Docket 
Operations, M-30, West Building Ground Floor, Room W12-140, 1200 New 
Jersey Avenue, SE., Washington, DC 20590.
     Hand Delivery: U.S. Department of Transportation, Docket 
Operations, M-30, West Building Ground Floor, Room W12-140, 1200 New 
Jersey Avenue, SE., Washington, DC 20590, between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m., 
Monday through Friday, except Federal holidays.
    For service information identified in this AD, contact Boeing 
Commercial Airplanes, Attention: Data & Services Management, P.O. Box 
3707, MC 2H-65, Seattle, Washington 98124-2207; telephone 206-544-5000, 
extension 1, fax 206-766-5680; e-mail [email protected]; Internet 
https://www.myboeingfleet.com. You may review copies of the referenced 
service information at the FAA, Transport Airplane Directorate, 1601 
Lind Avenue, SW., Renton, Washington. For information on the 
availability of this material at the FAA, call 425-227-1221.

Examining the AD Docket

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

FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Tak Kobayashi, Aerospace Engineer, 
Propulsion Branch, ANM-140S, FAA, Seattle Aircraft Certification 
Office, 1601 Lind Avenue, SW., Renton, Washington 98057-3356; telephone 
(425) 917-6499; fax (425) 917-6590; e-mail: [email protected].

SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION:

Discussion

    We received a report from an operator of a Model 757-200 series 
airplane that the engine indication and crew alerting system (EICAS) 
failed to alert the flightcrew of an improper fuel system configuration 
during flight. Later in that flight, the EICAS failed to alert the 
flightcrew that the fuel in the left- and right-hand main tanks was 
depleted below the minimum of 2,200 pounds. The EICAS receives both the 
LOW FUEL and FUEL CONFIG discrete signals from the fuel quantity 
processor unit to display certain messages to alert the flightcrew. 
When the center fuel tank pump switches are off with more than 200 
pounds of fuel in the center tank the EICAS should display the FUEL 
CONFIG advisory message. When the fuel in either main tank is below 
2,200 pounds, the EICAS should display the LOW FUEL caution message. 
The EICAS design allows a single latent failure of the FUEL CONFIG 
discrete signal, which disables both the FUEL CONFIG and LOW FUEL 
messages. Such failure, combined with a flightcrew error in configuring 
the fuel system, could lead to depletion of the fuel in the main tanks 
and possible flame out of both engines. A dual engine flame out could 
result in inaccessibility of the remaining fuel in the center tank due 
to loss of electrical power to the pumps, consequent unrecoverable dual 
engine shutdown, and forced landing of the airplane.
    The fuel quantity indicating system (FQIS), EICAS, and large format 
display system (LFDS) installed on Model 757-200 series airplanes are 
similar to the systems installed on Model 767 airplanes. Therefore, 
Model 767 airplanes are also subject to the identified unsafe condition 
and are included in the applicability of this AD.

Relevant Service Information

    We reviewed Boeing Special Attention Service Bulletins 757-28-0121, 
dated August 18, 2010; and 767-28-0106, dated August 25, 2010. The 
service information describes procedures for repetitive testing for 
correct functioning of the EICAS, and if the test fails, 
troubleshooting to find wire faults, bent connector pins, or damaged 
equipment. Boeing Special Attention Service Bulletin 757-28-0121, dated 
August 18, 2010, also specifies procedures for corrective actions if 
any wire fault or damaged equipment (including bent connector pins) is 
found. The corrective actions include repairing or replacing affected 
wires and damaged equipment (including bent connector pins).

FAA's Determination

    We are issuing this AD because we evaluated all the relevant 
information and determined the unsafe condition described previously is 
likely to exist or develop in other products of these same type 
designs.

[[Page 68178]]

AD Requirements

    This AD requires accomplishing the actions specified in the service 
information described previously, except as discussed under 
``Difference Between the AD and the Service Information.''

Difference Between the AD and the Service Information

    Boeing Special Attention Service Bulletins 767-28-0106, dated 
August 25, 2010, does not specify instructions on how to repair certain 
conditions, but this AD would require repairing those conditions in one 
of the following ways:
     In accordance with a method that we approve; or
     Using data that meet the certification basis of the 
airplane, and that have been approved by the Boeing Commercial 
Airplanes Organization Designation Authorization (ODA) whom we have 
authorized to make those findings.

Interim Action

    We consider this AD interim action. The manufacturer is currently 
developing a modification that will address the unsafe condition 
identified in this AD. Once this modification is developed, approved, 
and available, we might consider additional rulemaking.

FAA's Justification and Determination of the Effective Date

    An unsafe condition exists that requires the immediate adoption of 
this AD. The FAA has found that the risk to the flying public justifies 
waiving notice and comment prior to adoption of this rule because if 
the EICAS malfunctions, the flightcrew will not be alerted of a low 
fuel situation, which could result in depletion of the fuel in the main 
tanks and consequent unrecoverable dual engine shutdown and forced 
landing of the airplane. Therefore, we find that notice and opportunity 
for prior public comment are impracticable and that good cause exists 
for making this amendment effective in less than 30 days.

Comments Invited

    This AD is a final rule that involves requirements affecting flight 
safety and was not preceded by notice and an opportunity for public 
comment. However, we invite you to send any written data, views, or 
arguments about this AD. Send your comments to an address listed under 
the ADDRESSES section. Include ``Docket No. FAA-2010-1040; Directorate 
Identifier 2010-NM-207-AD;'' at the beginning of your comments. We 
specifically invite comments on the overall regulatory, economic, 
environmental, and energy aspects of this AD. We will consider all 
comments received by the closing date and may amend this AD because of 
those comments.
    We will post all comments we receive, without change, to http://www.regulations.gov, including any personal information you provide. We 
will also post a report summarizing each substantive verbal contact we 
receive about this AD.

Costs of Compliance

    We estimate that this AD affects 686 Model 757 airplanes and 425 
Model 767 airplanes of U.S. registry.
    We estimate the following costs to comply with this AD:

                                                 Estimated Costs
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                                                  Cost on U.S.
             Action                  Labor cost           Parts cost         Cost per product      operators
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
EICAS test.....................  1 work-hour x $85  N/A...................  $85 per test       $58,310 (for
                                  per hour = $85                             cycle.             Model 757
                                  per test cycle.                                               airplanes).
                                                                                                $36,125 (for
                                                                                                Model 767
                                                                                                airplanes).
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

    We have received no definitive data that would enable us to provide 
a cost estimate for the on-condition actions specified in this AD.

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

0
Accordingly, under the authority delegated to me by the Administrator, 
the FAA amends 14 CFR part 39 as follows:

PART 39--AIRWORTHINESS DIRECTIVES

0
1. The authority citation for part 39 continues to read as follows:

    Authority: 49 U.S.C. 106(g), 40113, 44701.


Sec.  39.13  [Amended]

0
2. The FAA amends Sec.  39.13 by adding the following new airworthiness 
directive (AD):

2010-23-03 The Boeing Company: Amendment 39-16492; Docket No. FAA-
2010-1040; Directorate Identifier 2010-NM-207-AD.

Effective Date

    (a) This AD is effective November 22, 2010.

Affected ADs

    (b) None.

Applicability

    (c) This AD applies to The Boeing Company Model 757-200, 200CB, 
-200PF,

[[Page 68179]]

and -300 series airplanes, line numbers 1 through 1050 inclusive, 
and all Model 767-200, -300, -300F, and -400ER series airplanes; 
certificated in any category.

Subject

    (d) Joint Aircraft System Component (JASC)/Air Transport 
Association (ATA) of America Code 28: Fuel.

Unsafe Condition

    (e) This AD was prompted by a report that the EICAS failed to 
alert the flightcrew of an improper fuel system configuration during 
flight. Later in that flight the EICAS failed to alert the 
flightcrew that the fuel in the left- and right-hand main tanks was 
depleted below the minimum of 2,200 pounds. We are issuing this AD 
to detect and correct a single latent failure of the FUEL CONFIG 
discrete signal, which disables both the FUEL CONFIG and LOW FUEL 
messages. Such failure, combined with a flightcrew error in 
configuring the fuel system, could lead to depletion of the fuel in 
the main tanks and possible flame out of both engines. A dual engine 
flame out could result in inaccessibility of the remaining fuel in 
the center tank due to loss of electrical power to the pumps, 
consequent unrecoverable dual engine shutdown, and forced landing of 
the airplane.

Compliance

    (f) Comply with this AD within the compliance times specified, 
unless already done.

Repetitive Tests

    (g) Within 100 flight hours after the effective date of this AD: 
Do a test for correct functioning of the EICAS to ensure that it 
receives both the LOW FUEL and FUEL CONFIG discrete signals from the 
fuel quantity processor unit, in accordance with the Accomplishment 
Instructions of Boeing Special Attention Service Bulletin 757-28-
0121, dated August 18, 2010; or Boeing Special Attention Service 
Bulletin 767-28-0106, dated August 25, 2010; as applicable. Repeat 
the test thereafter at intervals not to exceed 100 flight hours.

Corrective Actions If Necessary

    (h) If any test required by paragraph (g) of this AD fails, 
before further flight, troubleshoot to find any wire faults, and 
damaged equipment (including bent connector pins), in accordance 
with the Accomplishment Instructions of Boeing Special Attention 
Service Bulletin 757-28-0121, dated August 18, 2010; or Boeing 
Special Attention Service Bulletin 767-28-0106, dated August 25, 
2010; as applicable.
    (i) If, during any troubleshooting required by paragraph (h) of 
this AD, any wire fault or damaged equipment (including bent 
connector pins) is found, before further flight, do the applicable 
actions specified in paragraph (i)(1) or (i)(2) of this AD.
    (1) For airplanes identified in Boeing Special Attention Service 
Bulletin 757-28-0121, dated August 18, 2010: Repair or replace 
affected wires and equipment (including bent connector pins), in 
accordance with the Accomplishment Instructions of Boeing Special 
Attention Service Bulletin 757-28-0121, dated August 18, 2010.
    (2) For airplanes identified in Boeing Special Attention Service 
Bulletin 767-28-0106, dated August 25, 2010: Do corrective actions 
using a method approved by the Manager, Seattle Aircraft 
Certification Office (ACO), FAA.
    Note 1: Guidance on doing corrective actions can be found in 
Chapter 28, Subject 28-41-00, Section July, of the Boeing 767 Fault 
Isolation Manual (FIM).

Alternative Methods of Compliance (AMOCs)

    (j)(1) The Manager, Seattle 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 the Related Information section of this AD. 
Information may be e-mailed to: [email protected].
    (2) Before using any approved AMOC, notify your Principal 
Maintenance Inspector or Principal Avionics Inspector, as 
appropriate, or lacking a principal inspector, your local Flight 
Standards District Office.

Related Information

    (k) For more information about this AD, contact Tak Kobayashi, 
Aerospace Engineer, Propulsion Branch, ANM-140S, FAA, Seattle ACO, 
1601 Lind Avenue, SW., Renton, Washington 98057-3356; telephone 
(425) 917-6499; fax (425) 917-6590; e-mail 
[email protected].

Material Incorporated by Reference

    (l) You must use Boeing Special Attention Service Bulletin 757-
28-0121, dated August 18, 2010; or Boeing Special Attention Service 
Bulletin 767-28-0106, dated August 25, 2010; as applicable; to do 
the actions required by this AD, unless the AD specifies otherwise.
    (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 
Boeing Commercial Airplanes, Attention: Data & Services Management, 
P.O. Box 3707, MC 2H-65, Seattle, Washington 98124-2207; telephone 
206-544-5000, extension 1, fax 206-766-5680; e-mail 
[email protected]; Internet https://www.myboeingfleet.com.
    (3) You may review copies of the service information at the FAA, 
Transport Airplane Directorate, 1601 Lind Avenue, SW., Renton, 
Washington. For information on the availability of this material at 
the FAA, call 425-227-1221.
    (4) You may also review copies of the service information that 
is incorporated by reference at the National Archives and Records 
Administration (NARA). For information on the availability of this 
material at an NARA facility, call 202-741-6030, or go to http://www.archives.gov/federal_register/code_of_federal_regulations/ibr_locations.html.

    Issued in Renton, Washington, on October 20, 2010.
Michael Kaszycki,
Acting Manager, Transport Airplane Directorate, Aircraft Certification 
Service.
[FR Doc. 2010-27610 Filed 11-4-10; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE 4910-13-P