AD NUMBER: 2012-16-04

PRODUCT: Certain Boeing Model 777-200 and -300 series airplanes equipped with Rolls-Royce RB211 Trent 800 engines.
SUBJECT: Airworthiness Directive 2012-16-04
ACTION: Final Rule

SUMMARY: This AD was prompted by reports of events related to thermal damage of the thrust reverser (T/R) inner wall on Rolls-Royce RB211 Trent 800 engines.

This AD requires replacing the bleed valve parts and tubing with new parts and tubing on the left and right engines; and installing Aero-Engine database (AEDB) software in the airplane information management system (AIMS) hardware.

The FAA is issuing this AD to prevent T/R thermal damage caused by excessive heat downstream of the 8th stage IP8 exhaust ports, which could result in T/R structural failure. This failure could result in large pieces of the T/R or adjacent components departing the airplane. A separated T/R piece could result in a rejected takeoff and cause asymmetric thrust and consequent loss of control of the airplane during reverse thrust operations. Separated components could also cause structural damage to the airplane, damage to other airplanes due to debris left on the runway, or injury to people on the ground.

DATES: This AD is effective October 3, 2012.

FMI: AD