Special Conditions: AMSAFE, Incorporated; Mooney Models M20K, M20M, M20R, and M20S; Inflatable Three-Point Restraint Safety Belt With an Integrated Airbag Device, 11838-11841 [05-4649]

Download as PDF 11838 Federal Register / Vol. 70, No. 46 / Thursday, March 10, 2005 / Rules and Regulations a. * * * U.S. depository institutions 40 and foreign banks 41;* * * * * * * * 5. Amend Appendix D to part 225, as follows: I a. In section I.b., amend the first sentence by changing the phrase ‘‘to consolidated basis’’ to ‘‘on a consolidated basis’’ and the second sentence by changing the word ‘‘that’’ to ‘‘than.’’ I b. In section II.b., remove footnote 3 and redesignate footnote 4 as footnote 3. I c. In section II.c., revise the second sentence. I Appendix to Part 225—Capital Adequacy Guidelines for Bank Holding Companies: Tier 1 Leverage Measure * * * * * II. * * * c. * * * This is consistent with the Federal Reserve’s risk-based capital guidelines and long-standing Federal Reserve policy and practice with regard to leverage guidelines. * * * * * * * * By order of the Board of Governors of the Federal Reserve System, March 4, 2005. Jennifer J. Johnson, Secretary of the Board. [FR Doc. 05–4690 Filed 3–9–05; 8:45 am] BILLING CODE 6210–01–P DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION Federal Aviation Administration 14 CFR Part 23 [Docket No. CE217; Special Conditions No. 23–156–SC] Special Conditions: AMSAFE, Incorporated; Mooney Models M20K, M20M, M20R, and M20S; Inflatable Three-Point Restraint Safety Belt With an Integrated Airbag Device Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), DOT. ACTION: Final special conditions. AGENCY: * * * * * footnote 9 of this appendix for the definition of a U.S. depository institution. For this purpose, the definition also includes U.S.-chartered depository institutions owned by foreigners. However, branches and agencies of foreign banks located in the U.S., as well as all bank holding companies, are excluded. 41 See footnote 10 of this appendix for the definition of a foreign bank. Foreign banks are distinguished as either OECD banks or non-OECD banks. OECD banks include banks and their branches (foreign and domestic) organized under the laws of countries (other than the United States) that belong to the OECD-based group of countries. Non-OECD banks include banks and their branches (foreign and domestic) organized under the laws of countries that do not belong to the OECD-based group of countries. 40 See VerDate jul<14>2003 18:17 Mar 09, 2005 Jkt 205001 SUMMARY: These special conditions are issued for the installation of an AMSAFE, Inc., Inflatable Three-Point Restraint Safety Belt with an Integrated Airbag Device on Mooney models M20K, M20M, M20R, and M20S. These airplanes, as modified by AMSAFE, Inc., will have novel and unusual design features associated with the lap belt portion of the safety belt, which contains an integrated airbag device. The applicable airworthiness regulations do not contain adequate or appropriate safety standards for this design feature. These special conditions contain the additional safety standards that the Administrator considers necessary to establish a level of safety equivalent to that established by the existing airworthiness standards. DATES: Effective February 25, 2005. FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Mr. Mark James, Federal Aviation Administration, Aircraft Certification Service, Small Airplane Directorate, ACE–111, 901 Locust, Kansas City, Missouri, 816–329–4137, fax 816–329– 4090, e-mail: mark.james@faa.gov. SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION Background On April 13, 2004, AMSAFE, Inc., Aviation Inflatable Restraints Division, 1043 North 47th Avenue, Phoenix, AZ 85043, applied for a supplemental type certificate for the installation of an inflatable lap belt restraint with a standard upper torso restraint (or shoulder harness) in Mooney models M20 (K, M, R, and S). The Mooney models M20 (K, M, R, and S) are singleengine, multiplace airplanes. The inflatable restraint system is a three-point safety belt restraint system consisting of a traditional shoulder harness and an inflatable airbag lap belt. The inflatable portion of the restraint system will rely on sensors to electronically activate the inflator for deployment. The inflatable restraint system will be made available on the pilot, copilot, and passenger seats of these airplanes. In an emergency landing, the airbag will inflate and provide a protective cushion between the occupant’s head and structure within the airplane. This will reduce the potential for head and torso injury. The inflatable restraint behaves in a manner that is similar to an automotive airbag, but in this case, the airbag is integrated into the lap belt. While airbags and inflatable restraints are standard in the automotive industry, the use of an inflatable three-point restraint system is novel for general aviation operations. PO 00000 Frm 00012 Fmt 4700 Sfmt 4700 The FAA has determined that this project will be accomplished by providing the same level of safety as the current Mooney models M20 (K, M, R, and S). The FAA has two primary safety concerns with the installation of airbags or inflatable restraints: • That they perform properly under foreseeable operating conditions; and • That they do not perform in a manner or at such times as to impede the pilot’s ability to maintain control of the airplane or constitute a hazard to the airplane or occupants. The latter point has the potential to be the more rigorous of the requirements. An unexpected deployment while conducting the takeoff or landing phases of flight may result in an unsafe condition. The unexpected deployment may either startle the pilot or generate a force sufficient to cause a sudden movement of the control yoke. Either action could result in a loss of control of the airplane, the consequences of which are magnified due to the low operating altitudes during these phases of flight. The FAA has considered this when establishing these special conditions. The inflatable restraint system relies on sensors to electronically activate the inflator for deployment. These sensors could be susceptible to inadvertent activation, causing deployment in a potentially unsafe manner. The consequences of an inadvertent deployment must be considered in establishing the reliability of the system. AMSAFE, Inc., must show either that the effects of an inadvertent deployment in flight are not a hazard to the airplane or that an inadvertent deployment is extremely improbable. In addition, general aviation aircraft are susceptible to a large amount of cumulative wear and tear on a restraint system. The potential for inadvertent deployment may increase as a result of this cumulative damage. Therefore, the impact of wear and tear on inadvertent deployment must be considered. Due to the effects of this cumulative damage, a life limit must be established for the appropriate system components in the restraint system design. There are additional factors to be considered to minimize the chances of inadvertent deployment. General aviation airplanes are exposed to a unique operating environment, since the same airplane may be used by both experienced and student pilots. The effect of this environment on inadvertent deployment must be understood. Therefore, qualification testing of the firing hardware/software must consider the following: E:\FR\FM\10MRR1.SGM 10MRR1 Federal Register / Vol. 70, No. 46 / Thursday, March 10, 2005 / Rules and Regulations • The airplane vibration levels appropriate for a general aviation airplane; and • The inertial loads that result from typical flight or ground maneuvers, including gusts and hard landings. Any tendency for the firing mechanism to activate as a result of these loads or acceleration levels is unacceptable. Other influences on inadvertent deployment include high intensity electromagnetic fields (HIRF) and lightning. Since the sensors that trigger deployment are electronic, they must be protected from the effects of these threats. To comply with HIRF and lightning requirements, the AMSAFE, Inc., inflatable restraint system is considered a critical system, since its inadvertent deployment could have a hazardous effect on the airplane. Given the level of safety of the current Mooney M20 occupant restraints, the inflatable restraint system must show that it will offer an equivalent level of protection in an emergency landing. In an inadvertent deployment, the restraint must still be at least as strong as a Technical Standard Order approved belt and shoulder harness. There is no requirement for the inflatable portion of the restraint to offer protection during multiple impacts, where more than one impact would require protection. The inflatable restraint system must deploy and provide protection for each occupant under a crash condition. The seats of the models M20 (K, M, R, and S) are not certificated to the requirements of § 23.562, and it is not known if they would remain intact following exposure to the crash pulse identified in § 23.562. Therefore, the test crash pulse used to satisfy this requirement may have a peak longitudinal deceleration lower than that required by § 23.562. However, the test pulse onset rate (deceleration divided by time) must be equal to or greater than the onset rate of the pulse described in § 23.562. This will demonstrate that the crash sensor will trigger when exposed to a rapidly applied deceleration, like an actual crash event. It is possible a wide range of occupants will use the inflatable restraint. Thus, the protection offered by this restraint should be effective for occupants that range from the fifth percentile female to the ninety-fifth percentile male. Energy absorption must be performed in a consistent manner for this occupant range. To support this operational capability, there must be a means to verify the integrity of this system before each flight. AMSAFE, Inc., may establish VerDate jul<14>2003 18:17 Mar 09, 2005 Jkt 205001 inspection intervals where they have demonstrated the system to be reliable between these intervals. An inflatable restraint may be ‘‘armed’’ even though no occupant is using the seat. While there will be means to verify the integrity of the system before flight, unoccupied seats with active restraints should not constitute a hazard to any occupant. This will protect any individual performing maintenance inside the cockpit while the aircraft is on the ground. The restraint must also provide suitable visual warnings that would alert rescue personnel to the presence of an inflatable restraint system. In addition, the design must prevent the inflatable seatbelt from either being incorrectly buckled or installed such that the airbag would not properly deploy, or both. As an alternative, AMSAFE, Inc., may show that such deployment is not hazardous to the occupant and will still provide the required protection. The cabins of the Mooney model airplanes identified in these special conditions are confined areas, and the FAA is concerned that noxious gasses may accumulate in an airbag deployment. When deployment does occur, either by design or inadvertently, there must not be a release of hazardous quantities of gas or particulate matter into the cockpit. An inflatable restraint should not increase the risk already associated with fire. Therefore, the inflatable restraint should be protected from the effects of fire so that an additional hazard is not created by, for example, a rupture of the inflator. Finally, the airbag is likely to have a large volume displacement and possibly impede the egress of an occupant. Since the bag deflates to absorb energy, the inflatable restraint would probably be deflated at the time an occupant would attempt egress. However, it is appropriate to specify a time interval after which the inflatable restraint may not impede rapid egress. Ten seconds has been chosen as reasonable time. This time limit will offer a level of protection throughout the impact. Type Certification Basis Under the provisions of § 21.101, AMSAFE, Inc., must show that the Mooney models M20 (K, M, R, and S), as changed, continue to meet the applicable provisions of the regulations incorporated by reference in Type Certificate No. 2A3 or the applicable regulations in effect on the date of application for the change. The regulations incorporated by reference in the type certificate are commonly PO 00000 Frm 00013 Fmt 4700 Sfmt 4700 11839 referred to as the ‘‘original type certification basis.’’ The regulations incorporated by reference in Type Certificate No. 2A3 are as follows: Mooney M20K Model M20K (Serial Number 25–0001 through 25–2012) See Note 21 below (from Type Certificate Data Sheet). Civil Air Regulations (CAR) 3, effective November 1, 1949, as amended to May 18, 1954, with paragraph 3.74 of Amendment 3–13 dated August 25, 1955; CAR 3 effective May 15, 1956, as amended to October 1, 1959, paragraphs 3.109, 3.112, 3.115, 3.118, 3.120, and 3.441; in lieu of corresponding CAR 3 paragraphs, where applicable—14 CFR Part 23, effective February 1, 1965, as amended to September 14, 1969; §§ 23.33, 23.901 through 23.953, §§ 23.955 through 23.963, §§ 23.967 through 23.1047, §§ 23.1121 through 23.1193, §§ 23.1351 through 23.1401, § 23.1527, § 23.1553, as amended to June 17, 1970; §§ 23.1441 through 23.1449, as amended to February 1, 1977; §§ 23.1091 through 23.1105, as amended March 1, 1978; §§ 23.29; 14 CFR part 36, effective September 20, 1976. Model M20K (Serial Number 25–2013 and on) See Note 21 below (from Type Certificate Data Sheet). Civil Air Regulations (CAR) 3, effective November 1, 1949, as amended to May 18, 1954, with paragraph 3.74 of Amendment 3–13; CAR 3 effective May 15, 1956, as amended to October 1, 1959, paragraphs 3.109, 3.112, 3.115, 3.118, 3.120, and 3.441; in lieu of corresponding CAR 3 paragraphs, where applicable—14 CFR part 23, effective February 1, 1965; § 23.33, §§ 23.901 through 23.953, §§ 23.955 through 23.963, §§ 23.967 through 23.1047, §§ 23.1121 through 23.1193, §§ 23.1351 through 23.1401, § 23.1527, § 23.1553 of Amendment 23–7; §§ 23.1441 through 23.1449 of Amendment 23–9; §§ 23.1091 through 23.1105 of Amendment 23–17; § 23.1301 of Amendment 23–20; § 23.29 of Amendment 23–21; § 23.1529 of Amendment 23–26; §§ 23.45 through 23.77 of Amendment 23–34; § 23.1587 of Amendment 23–45; §§ 23.1323 and 23.1325 of Amendment 23–42; 14 CFR part 36, latest amendment at time of certification. Note 21: M20K S/N’s 25–2000 through 25– 2012 may be retrofitted to TSIO–360–SB2 engine and gross weight increase to 3130 lbs. when complied with M20K Gross Weight Increase Retrofit Instructions. Mooney M20M Model M20 Civil Air Regulations (CAR) 3, effective November 1, 1949, as E:\FR\FM\10MRR1.SGM 10MRR1 11840 Federal Register / Vol. 70, No. 46 / Thursday, March 10, 2005 / Rules and Regulations amended to May 18, 1954, paragraph 3.74, as amended to August 25, 1955; paragraphs 3.109, 3.112, 3.115, 3.118, 3.120, and 34.441 of CAR 3, effective May 15, 1956, as amended to October 1, 1959. In lieu of corresponding CAR 3 paragraphs, where applicable—14 CFR part 23, effective February 1, 1965; § 23.29, as amended to March 1, 1978; § 23.33, as amended to September 14, 1969; §§ 23.901 through 23.953, §§ 23.955 through 23.963, §§ 23.967 through 23.1063, as amended to September 14, 1969; §§ 23.1091 through 23.1105, as amended to February 1, 1977; §§ 23.1121 through 23.1193, §§ 23.1351 through 23.1399, as amended to September 14, 1969; §§ 23.1401, as amended to August 11, 1971; §§ 23.1441 through 23.1449, as amended to June 17, 1970; § 23.1521, as amended to December 1, 1978; § 23.1525; § 23.1527, as amended to September 14, 1969; §§ 23.1545, 23.1549, 23.1553, as amended to December 1, 1978; § 23.1557, as amended to December 20, 1973; § 23.1559, as amended to March 1, 1978; § 23.1563, as amended to September 14, 1969; § 23.1583, as amended to December 1, 1978; 14 CFR part 36, effective September 20, 1976, as amended to December 22, 1988. Mooney M20R Model M20R Civil Air Regulations (CAR) 3, effective November 1, 1949, as amended to May 18, 1954, paragraph 3.74, as amended to August 25, 1955; paragraphs 3.109, 3.112, 3.115, 3.118, 3.120, and 34.441 of CAR 3, effective May 15, 1956; as amended to October 1, 1959. In lieu of corresponding CAR 3 paragraphs, where applicable—14 CFR part 23, effective February 1, 1965; § 23.29, as amended to March 1, 1978; § 23.33, as amended to September 14, 1969; §§ 23.901 through 23.953, §§ 23.955 through 23.963, §§ 23.967 through 23.1063, as amended to September 14, 1969; §§ 23.1091 through 23.1105, as amended to February 1, 1977; §§ 23.1121 through 23.1193, §§ 23.1351 through 23.1399, as amended to September 14, 1969; § 23.1401, as amended to August 11, 1971; §§ 23.1441 through 23.1449, as amended to June 17, 1970; § 23.1521, as amended to December 1, 1978; § 23.1525; §§ 23.1527, as amended to September 14, 1969; §§ 23.1545, 23.1549, and 23.1553, as amended to December 1, 1978; §§ 23.1557, as amended to December 20, 1973; § 23.1559, as amended to March 1, 1978; § 23.1563, as amended to September 14, 1969; § 23.1583, as amended to December 1, 1978; 14 CFR part 36, effective September 20, 1976, as amended to December 22, 1988. VerDate jul<14>2003 18:17 Mar 09, 2005 Jkt 205001 Mooney M20S Model M20S Civil Air Regulations (CAR) 3, effective November 1, 1949, as amended May 18, 1954; except for paragraph 3.74 amended August 25, 1955; paragraph 3.109, .112, .115, .118, .120, and .441 of CAR 3, effective May 15, 1956, as amended October 1, 1959; and in lieu of corresponding CAR 3 paragraphs, where applicable—14 CFR part 23, effective February 1, 1965: Section 23.29, as amended by Amendment 23–21, dated March 1, 1978; §§ 23.33, dated September 14, 1969; §§ 23.45 through 23.77, as amended by Amendment 23–34, dated January 15, 1987; §§ 23.777, as amended by Amendment 23–7, dated September 14, 1969; §§ 23.901 through 23.953, §§ 23.955 through 23.963, §§ 23.967 through 23.1063, as amended by Amendment 23–7, dated September 14, 1969; §§ 23.1091 through 23.1105, as amended by Amendment 23–17, dated February 1, 1977; §§ 23.1121 through 23.1193, §§ 23.1351 through 23.1399, as amended by Amendment 23–7, dated September 14, 1969; § 23.1311, as amended by Amendment 23.49, dated March 11, 1996; § 23.1337(b), as amended by Amendment 23–7, dated September 14, 1969; § 23.1401, as amended by Amendment 23–11, dated August 11, 1971; §§ 23.1441 through 23.1449, as amended by Amendment 23–9, dated June 17, 1970; § 23.1521, as amended by Amendment 23–21, March 1, 1978; §§ 23.1525 and 23.1527, as amended by Amendment 23–7, dated September 14, 1969; § 23.1529, as amended by Amendment 23–26, dated October 14, 1980; §§ 23.1545, 23.1549, and 23.1553, as amended by Amendment 23–23, dated December 1, 1978; § 23.1555(a), as amended by Amendment 23–7, dated September 14, 1969; § 23.1557, as amended by Amendment 23–14, dated December 20, 1973; § 23.1559, as amended by Amendment 23–21, dated March 1, 1978; § 23.1563, as amended by Amendment 23–7, dated September 14, 1969; §§ 23.1581 through 23.1589, as amended by Amendment 23–34, dated January 15, 1987; 14 CFR part 36, effective September 20, 1976, the current amendment in effect at date of certification; and Equivalent. For the models listed above, the certification basis also includes all exemptions, if any; equivalent level of safety findings, if any; and the special conditions adopted by this rulemaking action. If the Administrator finds that the applicable airworthiness regulations (i.e., part 23 as amended) do not contain adequate or appropriate safety standards PO 00000 Frm 00014 Fmt 4700 Sfmt 4700 for the AMSAFE, Inc., inflatable restraint as installed on these Mooney models because of a novel or unusual design feature, special conditions are prescribed under the provisions of § 21.16. Special conditions, as appropriate, as defined in § 11.19, are issued in accordance with § 11.38, and become part of the type certification basis in accordance with § 21.101. Special conditions are initially applicable to the model for which they are issued. Should the applicant apply for a supplemental type certificate to modify any other model included on the same type certificate to incorporate the same novel or unusual design feature, the special conditions would also apply to that model under the provisions of § 21.101. Novel or Unusual Design Features The Mooney models M20 (K, M, R, and S) will incorporate the following novel or unusual design feature: The AMSAFE, Inc., Inflatable ThreePoint Restraint Safety Belt with an Integrated Airbag Device. The purpose of the airbag is to reduce the potential for injury in an accident. In a severe impact, an airbag will deploy from the lap belt portion of the restraint, in a manner similar to an automotive airbag. The airbag will deploy between the head of the occupant and airplane interior structure. This will, therefore, provide some protection to the head of the occupant. The restraint will rely on sensors to electronically activate the inflator for deployment. The Code of Federal Regulations state performance criteria for seats and restraints in an objective manner. However, none of these criteria are adequate to address the specific issues raised concerning inflatable restraints. Therefore, the FAA has determined that, in addition to the requirements of part 21 and part 23, special conditions are needed to address the installation of this inflatable restraint. Accordingly, these special conditions are adopted for the Mooney models M20 (K, M, R, and S) equipped with the AMSAFE, Inc., three-point inflatable restraint system. Other conditions may be developed, as needed, based on further FAA review and discussions with the manufacturer and civil aviation authorities. Discussion of Comments Notice of proposed special conditions No. 23–05–01–SC for the Mooney models M20 (K, M, R, and S) equipped with the AMSAFE, Inc., three-point inflatable restraint system was E:\FR\FM\10MRR1.SGM 10MRR1 Federal Register / Vol. 70, No. 46 / Thursday, March 10, 2005 / Rules and Regulations to or greater than the forward static design longitudinal load factor required by the original certification basis of the Applicability airplane. As discussed above, these special c. The means of protection must take conditions are applicable to the Mooney into consideration a range of stature models M20 (K, M, R, and S) equipped from a 5th percentile female to a 95th with the AMSAFE, Inc., three-point percentile male. The inflatable restraint inflatable restraint system. Should must provide a consistent approach to AMSAFE, Inc., apply at a later date for energy absorption throughout the range. 2. The inflatable restraint must a supplemental type certificate to provide adequate protection for each modify any other model on the Type occupant. In addition, unoccupied seats Certificates identified in these special that have an active restraint must not conditions to incorporate the same constitute a hazard to any occupant. novel or unusual design feature, the 3. The design must prevent the special conditions would also apply to the other model under the provisions of inflatable restraint from either being incorrectly buckled or incorrectly § 21.101. installed, or both, such that the airbag Conclusion would not properly deploy. This action affects only certain novel Alternatively, it must be shown that or unusual design features on the such deployment is not hazardous to the Mooney models M20 (K, M, R, and S). occupant and will provide the required It is not a rule of general applicability, protection. 4. It must be shown that the inflatable and it affects only the applicant who applied to the FAA for approval of these restraint system is not susceptible to inadvertent deployment as a result of features on the airplane. wear and tear or the inertial loads List of Subjects in 14 CFR Part 23 resulting from in-flight or ground Aircraft, Aviation safety, Signs and maneuvers (including gusts and hard symbols. landings) that are likely to be experienced in service. Citation 5. It must be extremely improbable for I The authority citation for these special an inadvertent deployment of the conditions is as follows: restraint system to occur, or an inadvertent deployment must not Authority: 49 U.S.C. 106(g), 40113 and 44701; 14 CFR 21.16 and 21.101; and 14 CFR impede the pilot’s ability to maintain 11.38 and 11.19. control of the airplane or cause an unsafe condition (or hazard to the The Special Conditions airplane). In addition, a deployed inflatable restraint must be at least as I The FAA has determined that this project will be accomplished on the basis strong as a Technical Standard Order of not lowering the current level of safety (C114) certificated belt and shoulder harness. for the Mooney models M20 (K, M, R, 6. It must be shown that deployment and S) occupant restraint system. of the inflatable restraint system is not Accordingly, pursuant to the authority hazardous to the occupant and will not delegated to me by the Administrator, result in injuries that could impede the following special conditions are rapid egress. This assessment should issued as part of the type certification basis for the Mooney models M20 (K, M, include occupants whose restraint is R, and S), as modified by AMSAFE, Inc. loosely fastened. 7. It must be shown that an Inflatable Three-Point Restraint Safety Belt with an Integrated Airbag Device on inadvertent deployment that could cause injury to a standing or sitting Mooney Models M20 (K, M, R, and S). 1. It must be shown that the inflatable person is improbable. In addition, the restraint must also provide suitable restraint will deploy and provide visual warnings that would alert rescue protection under crash conditions. Compliance will be demonstrated using personnel to the presence of an inflatable restraint system. the dynamic test condition specified in 8. It must be shown that the inflatable § 23.562, which may be modified as restraint will not impede rapid egress of follows: the occupants 10 seconds after its a. The peak longitudinal deceleration may be reduced; however, the onset rate deployment. 9. For the purposes of complying with of the deceleration must be equal to or greater than the crash pulse identified in HIRF and lightning requirements, the inflatable restraint system is considered § 23.562. b. The peak longitudinal deceleration a critical system since its deployment could have a hazardous effect on the must be above the deployment airplane. threshold of the crash sensor and equal published on January 19, 2005 (70 FR 2977). No comments were received. VerDate jul<14>2003 18:17 Mar 09, 2005 Jkt 205001 PO 00000 Frm 00015 Fmt 4700 Sfmt 4700 11841 10. It must be shown that the inflatable restraints will not release hazardous quantities of gas or particulate matter into the cabin. 11. The inflatable restraint system installation must be protected from the effects of fire such that no hazard to occupants will result. 12. There must be a means to verify the integrity of the inflatable restraint activation system before each flight or it must be demonstrated to reliably operate between inspection intervals. 13. A life limit must be established for appropriate system components. 14. Qualification testing of the internal firing mechanism must be performed at vibration levels appropriate for a general aviation airplane. Issued in Kansas City, Missouri on February 25, 2005. David R. Showers, Acting Manager, Small Airplane Directorate, Aircraft Certification Service. [FR Doc. 05–4649 Filed 3–9–05; 8:45 am] BILLING CODE 4910–13–P DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION Federal Aviation Administration 14 CFR Part 23 [Docket No. CE219, Special Condition No. 23–159–SC] Special Conditions: Cessna Aircraft Company; EFIS on the Cessna 172R and 172S; Protection of Systems for High Intensity Radiated Fields (HIRF) Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), DOT. ACTION: Final special conditions; request for comments. AGENCY: SUMMARY: These special conditions are issued for the Cessna Aircraft Company, Model 172R and 172S airplanes. These airplanes, as modified by Cessna Aircraft Company, will have a novel or unusual design feature(s) associated with the installation of a Garmin G1000 electronic flight instrument system (EFIS) and the protection of this system from the effects of high intensity radiated field (HIRF) environments. The applicable airworthiness regulations do not contain adequate or appropriate safety standards for this design feature. These special conditions contain the additional safety standards that the Administrator considers necessary to establish a level of safety equivalent to that established by the existing airworthiness standards. DATES: The effective date of these special conditions is March 2, 2005. E:\FR\FM\10MRR1.SGM 10MRR1

Agencies

[Federal Register Volume 70, Number 46 (Thursday, March 10, 2005)]
[Rules and Regulations]
[Pages 11838-11841]
From the Federal Register Online via the Government Printing Office [www.gpo.gov]
[FR Doc No: 05-4649]


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DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION

Federal Aviation Administration

14 CFR Part 23

[Docket No. CE217; Special Conditions No. 23-156-SC]


Special Conditions: AMSAFE, Incorporated; Mooney Models M20K, 
M20M, M20R, and M20S; Inflatable Three-Point Restraint Safety Belt With 
an Integrated Airbag Device

AGENCY: Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), DOT.

ACTION: Final special conditions.

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

SUMMARY: These special conditions are issued for the installation of an 
AMSAFE, Inc., Inflatable Three-Point Restraint Safety Belt with an 
Integrated Airbag Device on Mooney models M20K, M20M, M20R, and M20S. 
These airplanes, as modified by AMSAFE, Inc., will have novel and 
unusual design features associated with the lap belt portion of the 
safety belt, which contains an integrated airbag device. The applicable 
airworthiness regulations do not contain adequate or appropriate safety 
standards for this design feature. These special conditions contain the 
additional safety standards that the Administrator considers necessary 
to establish a level of safety equivalent to that established by the 
existing airworthiness standards.

DATES: Effective February 25, 2005.

FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Mr. Mark James, Federal Aviation 
Administration, Aircraft Certification Service, Small Airplane 
Directorate, ACE-111, 901 Locust, Kansas City, Missouri, 816-329-4137, 
fax 816-329-4090, e-mail: mark.james@faa.gov.

SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION

Background

    On April 13, 2004, AMSAFE, Inc., Aviation Inflatable Restraints 
Division, 1043 North 47th Avenue, Phoenix, AZ 85043, applied for a 
supplemental type certificate for the installation of an inflatable lap 
belt restraint with a standard upper torso restraint (or shoulder 
harness) in Mooney models M20 (K, M, R, and S). The Mooney models M20 
(K, M, R, and S) are single-engine, multiplace airplanes.
    The inflatable restraint system is a three-point safety belt 
restraint system consisting of a traditional shoulder harness and an 
inflatable airbag lap belt. The inflatable portion of the restraint 
system will rely on sensors to electronically activate the inflator for 
deployment. The inflatable restraint system will be made available on 
the pilot, copilot, and passenger seats of these airplanes.
    In an emergency landing, the airbag will inflate and provide a 
protective cushion between the occupant's head and structure within the 
airplane. This will reduce the potential for head and torso injury. The 
inflatable restraint behaves in a manner that is similar to an 
automotive airbag, but in this case, the airbag is integrated into the 
lap belt. While airbags and inflatable restraints are standard in the 
automotive industry, the use of an inflatable three-point restraint 
system is novel for general aviation operations.
    The FAA has determined that this project will be accomplished by 
providing the same level of safety as the current Mooney models M20 (K, 
M, R, and S). The FAA has two primary safety concerns with the 
installation of airbags or inflatable restraints:
     That they perform properly under foreseeable operating 
conditions; and
     That they do not perform in a manner or at such times as 
to impede the pilot's ability to maintain control of the airplane or 
constitute a hazard to the airplane or occupants.
    The latter point has the potential to be the more rigorous of the 
requirements. An unexpected deployment while conducting the takeoff or 
landing phases of flight may result in an unsafe condition. The 
unexpected deployment may either startle the pilot or generate a force 
sufficient to cause a sudden movement of the control yoke. Either 
action could result in a loss of control of the airplane, the 
consequences of which are magnified due to the low operating altitudes 
during these phases of flight. The FAA has considered this when 
establishing these special conditions.
    The inflatable restraint system relies on sensors to electronically 
activate the inflator for deployment. These sensors could be 
susceptible to inadvertent activation, causing deployment in a 
potentially unsafe manner. The consequences of an inadvertent 
deployment must be considered in establishing the reliability of the 
system. AMSAFE, Inc., must show either that the effects of an 
inadvertent deployment in flight are not a hazard to the airplane or 
that an inadvertent deployment is extremely improbable. In addition, 
general aviation aircraft are susceptible to a large amount of 
cumulative wear and tear on a restraint system. The potential for 
inadvertent deployment may increase as a result of this cumulative 
damage. Therefore, the impact of wear and tear on inadvertent 
deployment must be considered. Due to the effects of this cumulative 
damage, a life limit must be established for the appropriate system 
components in the restraint system design.
    There are additional factors to be considered to minimize the 
chances of inadvertent deployment. General aviation airplanes are 
exposed to a unique operating environment, since the same airplane may 
be used by both experienced and student pilots. The effect of this 
environment on inadvertent deployment must be understood. Therefore, 
qualification testing of the firing hardware/software must consider the 
following:

[[Page 11839]]

     The airplane vibration levels appropriate for a general 
aviation airplane; and
     The inertial loads that result from typical flight or 
ground maneuvers, including gusts and hard landings.
    Any tendency for the firing mechanism to activate as a result of 
these loads or acceleration levels is unacceptable.
    Other influences on inadvertent deployment include high intensity 
electromagnetic fields (HIRF) and lightning. Since the sensors that 
trigger deployment are electronic, they must be protected from the 
effects of these threats. To comply with HIRF and lightning 
requirements, the AMSAFE, Inc., inflatable restraint system is 
considered a critical system, since its inadvertent deployment could 
have a hazardous effect on the airplane.
    Given the level of safety of the current Mooney M20 occupant 
restraints, the inflatable restraint system must show that it will 
offer an equivalent level of protection in an emergency landing. In an 
inadvertent deployment, the restraint must still be at least as strong 
as a Technical Standard Order approved belt and shoulder harness. There 
is no requirement for the inflatable portion of the restraint to offer 
protection during multiple impacts, where more than one impact would 
require protection.
    The inflatable restraint system must deploy and provide protection 
for each occupant under a crash condition. The seats of the models M20 
(K, M, R, and S) are not certificated to the requirements of Sec.  
23.562, and it is not known if they would remain intact following 
exposure to the crash pulse identified in Sec.  23.562. Therefore, the 
test crash pulse used to satisfy this requirement may have a peak 
longitudinal deceleration lower than that required by Sec.  23.562. 
However, the test pulse onset rate (deceleration divided by time) must 
be equal to or greater than the onset rate of the pulse described in 
Sec.  23.562. This will demonstrate that the crash sensor will trigger 
when exposed to a rapidly applied deceleration, like an actual crash 
event.
    It is possible a wide range of occupants will use the inflatable 
restraint. Thus, the protection offered by this restraint should be 
effective for occupants that range from the fifth percentile female to 
the ninety-fifth percentile male. Energy absorption must be performed 
in a consistent manner for this occupant range.
    To support this operational capability, there must be a means to 
verify the integrity of this system before each flight. AMSAFE, Inc., 
may establish inspection intervals where they have demonstrated the 
system to be reliable between these intervals.
    An inflatable restraint may be ``armed'' even though no occupant is 
using the seat. While there will be means to verify the integrity of 
the system before flight, unoccupied seats with active restraints 
should not constitute a hazard to any occupant. This will protect any 
individual performing maintenance inside the cockpit while the aircraft 
is on the ground. The restraint must also provide suitable visual 
warnings that would alert rescue personnel to the presence of an 
inflatable restraint system.
    In addition, the design must prevent the inflatable seatbelt from 
either being incorrectly buckled or installed such that the airbag 
would not properly deploy, or both. As an alternative, AMSAFE, Inc., 
may show that such deployment is not hazardous to the occupant and will 
still provide the required protection.
    The cabins of the Mooney model airplanes identified in these 
special conditions are confined areas, and the FAA is concerned that 
noxious gasses may accumulate in an airbag deployment. When deployment 
does occur, either by design or inadvertently, there must not be a 
release of hazardous quantities of gas or particulate matter into the 
cockpit.
    An inflatable restraint should not increase the risk already 
associated with fire. Therefore, the inflatable restraint should be 
protected from the effects of fire so that an additional hazard is not 
created by, for example, a rupture of the inflator.
    Finally, the airbag is likely to have a large volume displacement 
and possibly impede the egress of an occupant. Since the bag deflates 
to absorb energy, the inflatable restraint would probably be deflated 
at the time an occupant would attempt egress. However, it is 
appropriate to specify a time interval after which the inflatable 
restraint may not impede rapid egress. Ten seconds has been chosen as 
reasonable time. This time limit will offer a level of protection 
throughout the impact.

Type Certification Basis

    Under the provisions of Sec.  21.101, AMSAFE, Inc., must show that 
the Mooney models M20 (K, M, R, and S), as changed, continue to meet 
the applicable provisions of the regulations incorporated by reference 
in Type Certificate No. 2A3 or the applicable regulations in effect on 
the date of application for the change. The regulations incorporated by 
reference in the type certificate are commonly referred to as the 
``original type certification basis.'' The regulations incorporated by 
reference in Type Certificate No. 2A3 are as follows:

Mooney M20K

    Model M20K (Serial Number 25-0001 through 25-2012) See Note 21 
below (from Type Certificate Data Sheet). Civil Air Regulations (CAR) 
3, effective November 1, 1949, as amended to May 18, 1954, with 
paragraph 3.74 of Amendment 3-13 dated August 25, 1955; CAR 3 effective 
May 15, 1956, as amended to October 1, 1959, paragraphs 3.109, 3.112, 
3.115, 3.118, 3.120, and 3.441; in lieu of corresponding CAR 3 
paragraphs, where applicable--14 CFR Part 23, effective February 1, 
1965, as amended to September 14, 1969; Sec. Sec.  23.33, 23.901 
through 23.953, Sec. Sec.  23.955 through 23.963, Sec. Sec.  23.967 
through 23.1047, Sec. Sec.  23.1121 through 23.1193, Sec. Sec.  23.1351 
through 23.1401, Sec.  23.1527, Sec.  23.1553, as amended to June 17, 
1970; Sec. Sec.  23.1441 through 23.1449, as amended to February 1, 
1977; Sec. Sec.  23.1091 through 23.1105, as amended March 1, 1978; 
Sec. Sec.  23.29; 14 CFR part 36, effective September 20, 1976.
    Model M20K (Serial Number 25-2013 and on) See Note 21 below (from 
Type Certificate Data Sheet). Civil Air Regulations (CAR) 3, effective 
November 1, 1949, as amended to May 18, 1954, with paragraph 3.74 of 
Amendment 3-13; CAR 3 effective May 15, 1956, as amended to October 1, 
1959, paragraphs 3.109, 3.112, 3.115, 3.118, 3.120, and 3.441; in lieu 
of corresponding CAR 3 paragraphs, where applicable--14 CFR part 23, 
effective February 1, 1965; Sec.  23.33, Sec. Sec.  23.901 through 
23.953, Sec. Sec.  23.955 through 23.963, Sec. Sec.  23.967 through 
23.1047, Sec. Sec.  23.1121 through 23.1193, Sec. Sec.  23.1351 through 
23.1401, Sec.  23.1527, Sec.  23.1553 of Amendment 23-7; Sec. Sec.  
23.1441 through 23.1449 of Amendment 23-9; Sec. Sec.  23.1091 through 
23.1105 of Amendment 23-17; Sec.  23.1301 of Amendment 23-20; Sec.  
23.29 of Amendment 23-21; Sec.  23.1529 of Amendment 23-26; Sec. Sec.  
23.45 through 23.77 of Amendment 23-34; Sec.  23.1587 of Amendment 23-
45; Sec. Sec.  23.1323 and 23.1325 of Amendment 23-42; 14 CFR part 36, 
latest amendment at time of certification.

    Note 21: M20K S/N's 25-2000 through 25-2012 may be retrofitted 
to TSIO-360-SB2 engine and gross weight increase to 3130 lbs. when 
complied with M20K Gross Weight Increase Retrofit Instructions.

Mooney M20M

    Model M20 Civil Air Regulations (CAR) 3, effective November 1, 
1949, as

[[Page 11840]]

amended to May 18, 1954, paragraph 3.74, as amended to August 25, 1955; 
paragraphs 3.109, 3.112, 3.115, 3.118, 3.120, and 34.441 of CAR 3, 
effective May 15, 1956, as amended to October 1, 1959. In lieu of 
corresponding CAR 3 paragraphs, where applicable--14 CFR part 23, 
effective February 1, 1965; Sec.  23.29, as amended to March 1, 1978; 
Sec.  23.33, as amended to September 14, 1969; Sec. Sec.  23.901 
through 23.953, Sec. Sec.  23.955 through 23.963, Sec. Sec.  23.967 
through 23.1063, as amended to September 14, 1969; Sec. Sec.  23.1091 
through 23.1105, as amended to February 1, 1977; Sec. Sec.  23.1121 
through 23.1193, Sec. Sec.  23.1351 through 23.1399, as amended to 
September 14, 1969; Sec. Sec.  23.1401, as amended to August 11, 1971; 
Sec. Sec.  23.1441 through 23.1449, as amended to June 17, 1970; Sec.  
23.1521, as amended to December 1, 1978; Sec.  23.1525; Sec.  23.1527, 
as amended to September 14, 1969; Sec. Sec.  23.1545, 23.1549, 23.1553, 
as amended to December 1, 1978; Sec.  23.1557, as amended to December 
20, 1973; Sec.  23.1559, as amended to March 1, 1978; Sec.  23.1563, as 
amended to September 14, 1969; Sec.  23.1583, as amended to December 1, 
1978; 14 CFR part 36, effective September 20, 1976, as amended to 
December 22, 1988.

Mooney M20R

    Model M20R Civil Air Regulations (CAR) 3, effective November 1, 
1949, as amended to May 18, 1954, paragraph 3.74, as amended to August 
25, 1955; paragraphs 3.109, 3.112, 3.115, 3.118, 3.120, and 34.441 of 
CAR 3, effective May 15, 1956; as amended to October 1, 1959. In lieu 
of corresponding CAR 3 paragraphs, where applicable--14 CFR part 23, 
effective February 1, 1965; Sec.  23.29, as amended to March 1, 1978; 
Sec.  23.33, as amended to September 14, 1969; Sec. Sec.  23.901 
through 23.953, Sec. Sec.  23.955 through 23.963, Sec. Sec.  23.967 
through 23.1063, as amended to September 14, 1969; Sec. Sec.  23.1091 
through 23.1105, as amended to February 1, 1977; Sec. Sec.  23.1121 
through 23.1193, Sec. Sec.  23.1351 through 23.1399, as amended to 
September 14, 1969; Sec.  23.1401, as amended to August 11, 1971; 
Sec. Sec.  23.1441 through 23.1449, as amended to June 17, 1970; Sec.  
23.1521, as amended to December 1, 1978; Sec.  23.1525; Sec. Sec.  
23.1527, as amended to September 14, 1969; Sec. Sec.  23.1545, 23.1549, 
and 23.1553, as amended to December 1, 1978; Sec. Sec.  23.1557, as 
amended to December 20, 1973; Sec.  23.1559, as amended to March 1, 
1978; Sec.  23.1563, as amended to September 14, 1969; Sec.  23.1583, 
as amended to December 1, 1978; 14 CFR part 36, effective September 20, 
1976, as amended to December 22, 1988.

Mooney M20S

    Model M20S Civil Air Regulations (CAR) 3, effective November 1, 
1949, as amended May 18, 1954; except for paragraph 3.74 amended August 
25, 1955; paragraph 3.109, .112, .115, .118, .120, and .441 of CAR 3, 
effective May 15, 1956, as amended October 1, 1959; and in lieu of 
corresponding CAR 3 paragraphs, where applicable--14 CFR part 23, 
effective February 1, 1965: Section 23.29, as amended by Amendment 23-
21, dated March 1, 1978; Sec. Sec.  23.33, dated September 14, 1969; 
Sec. Sec.  23.45 through 23.77, as amended by Amendment 23-34, dated 
January 15, 1987; Sec. Sec.  23.777, as amended by Amendment 23-7, 
dated September 14, 1969; Sec. Sec.  23.901 through 23.953, Sec. Sec.  
23.955 through 23.963, Sec. Sec.  23.967 through 23.1063, as amended by 
Amendment 23-7, dated September 14, 1969; Sec. Sec.  23.1091 through 
23.1105, as amended by Amendment 23-17, dated February 1, 1977; 
Sec. Sec.  23.1121 through 23.1193, Sec. Sec.  23.1351 through 23.1399, 
as amended by Amendment 23-7, dated September 14, 1969; Sec.  23.1311, 
as amended by Amendment 23.49, dated March 11, 1996; Sec.  23.1337(b), 
as amended by Amendment 23-7, dated September 14, 1969; Sec.  23.1401, 
as amended by Amendment 23-11, dated August 11, 1971; Sec. Sec.  
23.1441 through 23.1449, as amended by Amendment 23-9, dated June 17, 
1970; Sec.  23.1521, as amended by Amendment 23-21, March 1, 1978; 
Sec. Sec.  23.1525 and 23.1527, as amended by Amendment 23-7, dated 
September 14, 1969; Sec.  23.1529, as amended by Amendment 23-26, dated 
October 14, 1980; Sec. Sec.  23.1545, 23.1549, and 23.1553, as amended 
by Amendment 23-23, dated December 1, 1978; Sec.  23.1555(a), as 
amended by Amendment 23-7, dated September 14, 1969; Sec.  23.1557, as 
amended by Amendment 23-14, dated December 20, 1973; Sec.  23.1559, as 
amended by Amendment 23-21, dated March 1, 1978; Sec.  23.1563, as 
amended by Amendment 23-7, dated September 14, 1969; Sec. Sec.  23.1581 
through 23.1589, as amended by Amendment 23-34, dated January 15, 1987; 
14 CFR part 36, effective September 20, 1976, the current amendment in 
effect at date of certification; and Equivalent.
    For the models listed above, the certification basis also includes 
all exemptions, if any; equivalent level of safety findings, if any; 
and the special conditions adopted by this rulemaking action.
    If the Administrator finds that the applicable airworthiness 
regulations (i.e., part 23 as amended) do not contain adequate or 
appropriate safety standards for the AMSAFE, Inc., inflatable restraint 
as installed on these Mooney models because of a novel or unusual 
design feature, special conditions are prescribed under the provisions 
of Sec.  21.16.
    Special conditions, as appropriate, as defined in Sec.  11.19, are 
issued in accordance with Sec.  11.38, and become part of the type 
certification basis in accordance with Sec.  21.101.
    Special conditions are initially applicable to the model for which 
they are issued. Should the applicant apply for a supplemental type 
certificate to modify any other model included on the same type 
certificate to incorporate the same novel or unusual design feature, 
the special conditions would also apply to that model under the 
provisions of Sec.  21.101.

Novel or Unusual Design Features

    The Mooney models M20 (K, M, R, and S) will incorporate the 
following novel or unusual design feature:
    The AMSAFE, Inc., Inflatable Three-Point Restraint Safety Belt with 
an Integrated Airbag Device. The purpose of the airbag is to reduce the 
potential for injury in an accident. In a severe impact, an airbag will 
deploy from the lap belt portion of the restraint, in a manner similar 
to an automotive airbag. The airbag will deploy between the head of the 
occupant and airplane interior structure. This will, therefore, provide 
some protection to the head of the occupant. The restraint will rely on 
sensors to electronically activate the inflator for deployment.
    The Code of Federal Regulations state performance criteria for 
seats and restraints in an objective manner. However, none of these 
criteria are adequate to address the specific issues raised concerning 
inflatable restraints. Therefore, the FAA has determined that, in 
addition to the requirements of part 21 and part 23, special conditions 
are needed to address the installation of this inflatable restraint.
    Accordingly, these special conditions are adopted for the Mooney 
models M20 (K, M, R, and S) equipped with the AMSAFE, Inc., three-point 
inflatable restraint system. Other conditions may be developed, as 
needed, based on further FAA review and discussions with the 
manufacturer and civil aviation authorities.

Discussion of Comments

    Notice of proposed special conditions No. 23-05-01-SC for the 
Mooney models M20 (K, M, R, and S) equipped with the AMSAFE, Inc., 
three-point inflatable restraint system was

[[Page 11841]]

published on January 19, 2005 (70 FR 2977). No comments were received.

Applicability

    As discussed above, these special conditions are applicable to the 
Mooney models M20 (K, M, R, and S) equipped with the AMSAFE, Inc., 
three-point inflatable restraint system. Should AMSAFE, Inc., apply at 
a later date for a supplemental type certificate to modify any other 
model on the Type Certificates identified in these special conditions 
to incorporate the same novel or unusual design feature, the special 
conditions would also apply to the other model under the provisions of 
Sec.  21.101.

Conclusion

    This action affects only certain novel or unusual design features 
on the Mooney models M20 (K, M, R, and S). It is not a rule of general 
applicability, and it affects only the applicant who applied to the FAA 
for approval of these features on the airplane.

List of Subjects in 14 CFR Part 23

    Aircraft, Aviation safety, Signs and symbols.

Citation

0
The authority citation for these special conditions is as follows:

    Authority: 49 U.S.C. 106(g), 40113 and 44701; 14 CFR 21.16 and 
21.101; and 14 CFR 11.38 and 11.19.

The Special Conditions

0
The FAA has determined that this project will be accomplished on the 
basis of not lowering the current level of safety for the Mooney models 
M20 (K, M, R, and S) occupant restraint system. Accordingly, pursuant 
to the authority delegated to me by the Administrator, the following 
special conditions are issued as part of the type certification basis 
for the Mooney models M20 (K, M, R, and S), as modified by AMSAFE, Inc.
    Inflatable Three-Point Restraint Safety Belt with an Integrated 
Airbag Device on Mooney Models M20 (K, M, R, and S).
    1. It must be shown that the inflatable restraint will deploy and 
provide protection under crash conditions. Compliance will be 
demonstrated using the dynamic test condition specified in Sec.  
23.562, which may be modified as follows:
    a. The peak longitudinal deceleration may be reduced; however, the 
onset rate of the deceleration must be equal to or greater than the 
crash pulse identified in Sec.  23.562.
    b. The peak longitudinal deceleration must be above the deployment 
threshold of the crash sensor and equal to or greater than the forward 
static design longitudinal load factor required by the original 
certification basis of the airplane.
    c. The means of protection must take into consideration a range of 
stature from a 5th percentile female to a 95th percentile male. The 
inflatable restraint must provide a consistent approach to energy 
absorption throughout the range.
    2. The inflatable restraint must provide adequate protection for 
each occupant. In addition, unoccupied seats that have an active 
restraint must not constitute a hazard to any occupant.
    3. The design must prevent the inflatable restraint from either 
being incorrectly buckled or incorrectly installed, or both, such that 
the airbag would not properly deploy. Alternatively, it must be shown 
that such deployment is not hazardous to the occupant and will provide 
the required protection.
    4. It must be shown that the inflatable restraint system is not 
susceptible to inadvertent deployment as a result of wear and tear or 
the inertial loads resulting from in-flight or ground maneuvers 
(including gusts and hard landings) that are likely to be experienced 
in service.
    5. It must be extremely improbable for an inadvertent deployment of 
the restraint system to occur, or an inadvertent deployment must not 
impede the pilot's ability to maintain control of the airplane or cause 
an unsafe condition (or hazard to the airplane). In addition, a 
deployed inflatable restraint must be at least as strong as a Technical 
Standard Order (C114) certificated belt and shoulder harness.
    6. It must be shown that deployment of the inflatable restraint 
system is not hazardous to the occupant and will not result in injuries 
that could impede rapid egress. This assessment should include 
occupants whose restraint is loosely fastened.
    7. It must be shown that an inadvertent deployment that could cause 
injury to a standing or sitting person is improbable. In addition, the 
restraint must also provide suitable visual warnings that would alert 
rescue personnel to the presence of an inflatable restraint system.
    8. It must be shown that the inflatable restraint will not impede 
rapid egress of the occupants 10 seconds after its deployment.
    9. For the purposes of complying with HIRF and lightning 
requirements, the inflatable restraint system is considered a critical 
system since its deployment could have a hazardous effect on the 
airplane.
    10. It must be shown that the inflatable restraints will not 
release hazardous quantities of gas or particulate matter into the 
cabin.
    11. The inflatable restraint system installation must be protected 
from the effects of fire such that no hazard to occupants will result.
    12. There must be a means to verify the integrity of the inflatable 
restraint activation system before each flight or it must be 
demonstrated to reliably operate between inspection intervals.
    13. A life limit must be established for appropriate system 
components.
    14. Qualification testing of the internal firing mechanism must be 
performed at vibration levels appropriate for a general aviation 
airplane.

    Issued in Kansas City, Missouri on February 25, 2005.
David R. Showers,
Acting Manager, Small Airplane Directorate, Aircraft Certification 
Service.
[FR Doc. 05-4649 Filed 3-9-05; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE 4910-13-P

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