Airworthiness Directives; Pilatus Aircraft Ltd. Model PC-6 Series Airplanes, 44145-44147 [E8-17331]
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Federal Register / Vol. 73, No. 147 / Wednesday, July 30, 2008 / Rules and Regulations
44145
Actions
Compliance
Procedures
(3) Replace or modify (upload software) the
stall warning AOA transmitters by doing one
of the following:
(i) Upload new software Kit No. 123–3436
(Field Software Upload SLZ8060–3,–4)
to the AOA transmitters; or
(ii) Replace any part number (P/N)
SLZ8060–3 and/or P/N SLZ8060–4 AOA
transmitters with new P/N SLZ8060–5
AOA transmitters.
(4) Remove Raytheon Aircraft Company Temporary Change to the FAA Approved Airplane
Flight Manual P/N 390–590001–0003CTC7,
issued: March 15, 2007, from the AFM.
(5) Do not install any P/N SLZ8060–3 or P/N
SLZ8060–4 AOA transmitter that does not
have the new upgraded software required by
paragraph (e)(3)(i) of this AD.
Within 250 hours TIS after September 3, 2008
(the effective date of this AD) or within 12
months after September 3, 2008 (the effective date of this AD), whichever occurs first.
Completion of either paragraph (e)(3)(i) or
(e)(3)(ii) of this AD terminates the required
repetitive post-flight check of this AD.
Follow Hawker Beechcraft Mandatory Service
Bulletin No. SB 27–3787, issued: May
2007.
Before further flight after doing the actions required by paragraph (e)(3)(i) or paragraph
(e)(3)(ii) of this AD.
Follow Hawker Beechcraft Mandatory Service
Bulletin No. SB 27–3787, issued: May
2007.
As of September 3, 2008 (the effective date
of this AD).
Not Applicable.
DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION
Material Incorporated by Reference
(g) You must use Raytheon Aircraft
Company Temporary Change to the FAA
Approved Airplane Flight Manual P/N 390–
590001–0003CTC7, issued: March 15, 2007,
and Hawker Beechcraft Mandatory Service
Bulletin No. SB 27–3787, issued: May 2007,
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 Hawker Beechcraft
Corporation, 9709 East Central, Wichita,
Kansas 67291; telephone: (800) 429–5372 or
(316) 676–3140.
(3) You may review copies at the FAA,
Central Region, Office of the Regional
Counsel, 901 Locust, Kansas City, Missouri
64106; 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: https://www.archives.gov/federal_register/
code_of_federal_regulations/
ibr_locations.html.
rwilkins on PROD1PC63 with RULES
Alternative Methods of Compliance
(AMOCs)
(f) The Manager, Wichita Aircraft
Certification Office (ACO), FAA, has the
authority to approve AMOCs for this AD, if
requested using the procedures found in 14
CFR 39.19. Send information to ATTN:
Philip Petty, Aerospace Engineer, Wichita
ACO, 1801 Airport Road, Room 100, Wichita,
Kansas 67209; telephone: (316) 946–4139;
fax: (316) 946–4107. Before using any
approved AMOC on any airplane to which
the AMOC applies, notify your appropriate
principal inspector (PI) in the FAA Flight
Standards District Office (FSDO), or lacking
a PI, your local FSDO.
AGENCY:
Issued in Kansas City, Missouri, on July 23,
2008.
John Colomy,
Acting Manager, Small Airplane Directorate,
Aircraft Certification Service.
[FR Doc. E8–17329 Filed 7–29–08; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE 4910–13–P
VerDate Aug<31>2005
16:51 Jul 29, 2008
Jkt 214001
Federal Aviation Administration
14 CFR Part 39
[Docket No. FAA–2008–0822; Directorate
Identifier 2008–CE–045–AD; Amendment
39–15621; AD 2008–16–03]
RIN 2120–AA64
Airworthiness Directives; Pilatus
Aircraft Ltd. Model PC–6 Series
Airplanes
Federal Aviation
Administration (FAA), DOT.
ACTION: Final rule; request for
comments.
SUMMARY: We are adopting a new
airworthiness directive (AD) for the
products listed above. This AD results
from mandatory continuing
airworthiness information (MCAI)
issued by the aviation authority of
another country to identify and correct
an unsafe condition on an aviation
product. The MCAI describes the unsafe
condition as:
This Airworthiness Directive (AD) is
prompted due to the discovery of cracked or
broken leaf springs P/N 6232.0175.01
installed in the overhead flap-operating
mechanism of some PC–6 aircraft. A broken
leaf spring could lead to an uncommanded
flap retraction which could lead to hazardous
situations and subsequent loss of control of
the aircraft.
This AD requires actions that are
intended to address the unsafe
condition described in the MCAI.
DATES: This AD becomes effective
August 11, 2008.
On August 11, 2008, the Director of
the Federal Register approved the
incorporation by reference of certain
publications listed in this AD.
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We must receive comments on this
AD by August 29, 2008.
ADDRESSES: You may send comments by
any of the following methods:
• Federal eRulemaking Portal: Go to
https://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.
Examining the AD Docket
You may examine the AD docket on
the Internet at https://
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 (telephone (800) 647–
5527) is in the ADDRESSES section.
Comments will be available in the AD
docket shortly after receipt.
FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT:
Doug Rudolph, Aerospace Engineer,
Small Airplane Directorate, 901 Locust,
Room 301, Kansas City, Missouri 64106;
telephone: (816) 329–4059; fax: (816)
329–4090.
SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION:
Discussion
The Federal Office of Civil Aviation
(FOCA), which is the aviation authority
for Switzerland, has issued FOCA
EMERGENCY AD HB–2008–242
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44146
Federal Register / Vol. 73, No. 147 / Wednesday, July 30, 2008 / Rules and Regulations
(referred to after this as ‘‘the MCAI’’), to
correct an unsafe condition for the
specified products. The MCAI states:
This Airworthiness Directive (AD) is
prompted due to the discovery of cracked or
broken leaf springs P/N 6232.0175.01
installed in the overhead flap-operating
mechanism of some PC–6 aircraft. A broken
leaf spring could lead to an uncommanded
flap retraction which could lead to hazardous
situations and subsequent loss of control of
the aircraft.
This AD is published by Federal Office of
Civil Aviation (FOCA) Switzerland, as State
of production and because it is possible that
the leaf springs were not manufactured
properly.
In order to correct and control the
situation, this AD requires the initial and
repetitive inspections of the leaf springs in
the flap operating mechanism and the
replacement of broken parts.
You may obtain further information by
examining the MCAI in the AD docket.
Relevant Service Information
Pilatus Aircraft Limited has issued
Pilatus PC–6 Service Bulletin No. 27–
002 and Pilatus PC–6 Service Bulletin
27–003, both dated July 2, 2008. The
actions described in this service
information are intended to correct the
unsafe condition identified in the
MCAI.
rwilkins on PROD1PC63 with RULES
FAA’s Determination and Requirements
of the AD
This product has been approved by
the aviation authority of another
country, and is approved for operation
in the United States. Pursuant to our
bilateral agreement with this State of
Design Authority, they have notified us
of the unsafe condition described in the
MCAI and service information
referenced above. We are issuing this
AD because we evaluated all
information provided by the State of
Design Authority and determined the
unsafe condition exists and is likely to
exist or develop on other products of the
same type design.
Differences Between This AD and the
MCAI or Service Information
We have reviewed the MCAI and
related service information and, in
general, agree with their substance. But
we might have found it necessary to use
different words from those in the MCAI
to ensure the AD is clear for U.S.
operators and is enforceable. In making
these changes, we do not intend to differ
substantively from the information
provided in the MCAI and related
service information.
The MCAI allows for replacement
parts with like parts that are prone to
cracking. The reason for the 25-hour
repetitive inspection is because the
VerDate Aug<31>2005
16:51 Jul 29, 2008
Jkt 214001
cracks are occurring quickly. We believe
that allowing replacement with the
same part numbers that are cracking
when improved design part numbers
exist allows the unsafe condition to
continue. Therefore we are requiring
replacement with the new improved
part numbers if cracks are found.
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.
FAA’s 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 a broken leaf spring could
lead to an uncommanded flap retraction
and lead to loss of control during final
approach. Therefore, we determined
that notice and opportunity for public
comment before issuing this AD are
impracticable and that good cause exists
for making this amendment effective in
fewer than 30 days.
Regulatory Findings
We 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 regulatory evaluation
of the estimated costs to comply with
this AD and placed it in the AD docket.
Comments Invited
This AD is a final rule that involves
requirements affecting flight safety, and
we did not precede it by notice and
opportunity for public comment. We
invite you to send any written relevant
data, views, or arguments about this AD.
Send your comments to an address
listed under the ADDRESSES section.
Include ‘‘Docket No. FAA–2008–0822;
Directorate Identifier 2008–CE–045–
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 https://
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.
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
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List of Subjects in 14 CFR Part 39
Air transportation, Aircraft, Aviation
safety, Incorporation by reference,
Safety.
Adoption of the Amendment
Accordingly, under the authority
delegated to me by the Administrator,
the FAA amends 14 CFR part 39 as
follows:
I
PART 39—AIRWORTHINESS
DIRECTIVES
1. The authority citation for part 39
continues to read as follows:
I
Authority: 49 U.S.C. 106(g), 40113, 44701.
§ 39.13
[Amended]
2. The FAA amends § 39.13 by adding
the following new AD:
I
2008–16–03 Pilatus Aircraft Limited:
Amendment 39–15621; Docket No.
FAA–2008–0822; Directorate Identifier
2008–CE–045–AD.
Effective Date
(a) This airworthiness directive (AD)
becomes effective August 11, 2008.
Affected ADs
(b) None.
Applicability
(c) This AD applies to Models PC–6, PC–
6–H1, PC–6–H2, PC–6/350, PC–6/350–H1,
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Federal Register / Vol. 73, No. 147 / Wednesday, July 30, 2008 / Rules and Regulations
PC–6/350–H2, PC–6/A, PC–6/A–H1, PC–6/
A–H2, PC–6/B–H2, PC–6/B1–H2, PC–6/B2–
H2, PC–6/B2–H4, PC–6/C–H2, and PC–6/C1–
H2 airplanes, manufacturer serial numbers
(MSN) MSN 101 through MSN 999 and MSN
2001 through MSN 2092, certificated in any
category, with mechanically operated flaps
and leaf springs, part number (P/N)
6232.0175.01 installed in the overhead flapoperating mechanism.
Note: These airplanes may also be
identified as Fairchild Republic Company
PC–6 airplanes, Fairchild Heli Porter PC–6
airplanes, or Fairchild-Hiller Corporation
PC–6 airplanes.
Subject
(d) Air Transport Association of America
(ATA) Code 27: Flight Controls.
rwilkins on PROD1PC63 with RULES
Reason
(e) The mandatory continuing
airworthiness information (MCAI) states:
This Airworthiness Directive (AD) is
prompted due to the discovery of cracked or
broken leaf springs P/N 6232.0175.01
installed in the overhead flap-operating
mechanism of some PC–6 aircraft. A broken
leaf spring could lead to an uncommanded
flap retraction which could lead to hazardous
situations and subsequent loss of control of
the aircraft.
This AD is published by Federal Office of
Civil Aviation (FOCA) Switzerland, as State
of production and because it is possible that
the leaf springs were not manufactured
properly.
In order to correct and control the
situation, this AD requires the initial and
repetitive inspections of the leaf springs in
the flap operating mechanism and the
replacement of broken parts.
Actions and Compliance
(f) Unless already done, do the following
actions:
(1) Before the next flight after the effective
date of this AD, do a visual inspection of the
leaf springs installed in the overhead flapoperating mechanism for cracks following
Pilatus Aircraft Ltd. Pilatus PC–6 Service
Bulletin No. 27–002, dated July 2, 2008.
(2) If any cracks are found in the leaf
springs installed in the overhead flapoperating mechanism, before further flight,
remove the three leaf springs, P/N
6232.0175.01, installed in the overhead flapoperating mechanism, and replace with three
new leaf springs, P/N 116.45.06.040, in the
overhead flap-operating mechanism
following Pilatus Aircraft Ltd. Pilatus PC–6
Service Bulletin No. 27–003, dated July 2,
2008.
(3) Repetitively inspect thereafter at
intervals not to exceed 25 hours time-inservice following Pilatus Aircraft Ltd. Pilatus
PC–6 Service Bulletin No. 27–002, dated July
2, 2008, until the modification required in
paragraph (f)(2) of this AD is done. If any
cracks are found in the leaf springs installed
in the overhead flap-operating mechanism,
before further flight, remove the three leaf
springs, P/N 6232.0175.01, and replace with
three new leaf springs, P/N 116.45.06.040,
following Pilatus Aircraft Ltd. Pilatus PC–6
Service Bulletin No. 27–003, dated July 2,
2008.
VerDate Aug<31>2005
16:51 Jul 29, 2008
Jkt 214001
(4) As of the effective date of this AD, do
not install any P/N 6232.0175.01 leaf spring
in the overhead flap-operating mechanism.
Other FAA AD Provisions
(g) The following provisions also apply to
this AD:
(1) Alternative Methods of Compliance
(AMOCs): The Manager, Standards Office,
FAA, has the authority to approve AMOCs
for this AD, if requested using the procedures
found in 14 CFR 39.19. Send information to
ATTN: Doug Rudolph, Aerospace Engineer,
FAA, Small Airplane Directorate, 901 Locust,
Room 301, Kansas City, Missouri 64106;
telephone: (816) 329–4059; fax: (816) 329–
4090. Before using any approved AMOC on
any airplane to which the AMOC applies,
notify your appropriate principal inspector
(PI) in the FAA Flight Standards District
Office (FSDO), or lacking a PI, your local
FSDO.
(2) Airworthy Product: For any
requirement in this AD to obtain corrective
actions from a manufacturer or other source,
use these actions if they are FAA-approved.
Corrective actions are considered FAAapproved if they are approved by the State
of Design Authority (or their delegated
agent). You are required to assure the product
is airworthy before it is returned to service.
(3) Reporting Requirements: For any
reporting requirement in this AD, under the
provisions of the Paperwork Reduction Act
(44 U.S.C. 3501 et seq.), the Office of
Management and Budget (OMB) has
approved the information collection
requirements and has assigned OMB Control
Number 2120–0056.
Special Flight Permit
(h) If cracks are detected during the
inspection required in (f)(1) or (f)(3) of this
AD, no further flight is permitted until the
modification required in paragraph (f)(2) or
(f)(3) of this AD is done.
Related Information
(i) Refer to MCAI FOCA EMERGENCY AD
HB–2008–242, dated July 4, 2008, and Pilatus
Aircraft Ltd. Pilatus PC–6 Service Bulletin
No. 27–002 and Pilatus Aircraft Ltd. Pilatus
PC–6 Service Bulletin 27–003, both dated
July 2, 2008, for related information.
Material Incorporated by Reference
(j) You must use Pilatus Aircraft Ltd.
Pilatus PC–6 Service Bulletin No. 27–002 and
Pilatus Aircraft Ltd. Pilatus PC–6 Service
Bulletin 27–003, both dated July 2, 2008 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 Pilatus Aircraft Ltd.,
Customer Liaison Manager, CH 6371 STANS,
Switzerland; telephone: + 41 (0)41 619 6580;
fax: + 41 (0)41 619 6576; e-mail:
fodermatt@pilatus aircaft.com.
(3) You may review copies at the FAA,
Central Region, Office of the Regional
Counsel, 901 Locust, Room 506, Kansas City,
Missouri 64106; or at the National Archives
and Records Administration (NARA). For
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44147
information on the availability of this
material at NARA, call 202–741–6030, or go
to: https://www.archives.gov/federal-register/
cfr/ibr-locations.html.
Issued in Kansas City, Missouri, on July 23,
2008.
John Colomy,
Acting Manager, Small Airplane Directorate,
Aircraft Certification Service.
[FR Doc. E8–17331 Filed 7–29–08; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE 4910–13–P
DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION
Federal Aviation Administration
14 CFR Part 71
[Docket No. FAA–2008–0187; Airspace
Docket No. 07–ASO–27]
Modification of Area Navigation Route
Q–110 and Jet Route J–73; Florida
Federal Aviation
Administration (FAA), DOT.
ACTION: Final rule.
AGENCY:
SUMMARY: This action extends the length
of Area Navigation (RNAV) route Q–110
and makes a minor realignment of jet
route J–73 in Florida. These
modifications support the Florida West
Coast Airspace Redesign project. The
extension of Q–110 provides an RNAV
route for use by aircraft transitioning
between Miami Air Route Traffic
Control Center (ARTCC) and
Jacksonville ARTCC airspace. The
extension also assists aircraft in
circumnavigating military airspace
associated with the Avon Park Air Force
Range. The realignment of J–73 provides
space for the Q–110 extension. The FAA
is taking this action to enhance the safe
and the efficient use of the navigable
airspace in the western Florida area.
DATES: Effective Date: 0901 UTC,
September 25, 2008. The Director of the
Federal Register approves this
incorporation by reference action under
1 CFR part 51, subject to the annual
revision of FAA Order 7400.9 and
publication of conforming amendments.
FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Paul
Gallant, Airspace and Rules Group,
Office of System Operations Airspace
and AIM, Federal Aviation
Administration, 800 Independence
Avenue, SW., Washington, DC 20591;
telephone: (202) 267–8783.
SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION:
History
On April 17, 2008, the FAA published
in the Federal Register a notice of
proposed rulemaking (NPRM) to modify
Q–110 and J–73 in western Florida (73
FR 20844) Airspace Docket No. FAA–
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]]>Agencies
[Federal Register Volume 73, Number 147 (Wednesday, July 30, 2008)]
[Rules and Regulations]
[Pages 44145-44147]
From the Federal Register Online via the Government Printing Office [www.gpo.gov]
[FR Doc No: E8-17331]
-----------------------------------------------------------------------
DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION
Federal Aviation Administration
14 CFR Part 39
[Docket No. FAA-2008-0822; Directorate Identifier 2008-CE-045-AD;
Amendment 39-15621; AD 2008-16-03]
RIN 2120-AA64
Airworthiness Directives; Pilatus Aircraft Ltd. Model PC-6 Series
Airplanes
AGENCY: Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), DOT.
ACTION: Final rule; request for comments.
-----------------------------------------------------------------------
SUMMARY: We are adopting a new airworthiness directive (AD) for the
products listed above. This AD results from mandatory continuing
airworthiness information (MCAI) issued by the aviation authority of
another country to identify and correct an unsafe condition on an
aviation product. The MCAI describes the unsafe condition as:
This Airworthiness Directive (AD) is prompted due to the
discovery of cracked or broken leaf springs P/N 6232.0175.01
installed in the overhead flap-operating mechanism of some PC-6
aircraft. A broken leaf spring could lead to an uncommanded flap
retraction which could lead to hazardous situations and subsequent
loss of control of the aircraft.
This AD requires actions that are intended to address the unsafe
condition described in the MCAI.
DATES: This AD becomes effective August 11, 2008.
On August 11, 2008, the Director of the Federal Register approved
the incorporation by reference of certain publications listed in this
AD.
We must receive comments on this AD by August 29, 2008.
ADDRESSES: You may send comments by any of the following methods:
Federal eRulemaking Portal: Go to https://
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.
Examining the AD Docket
You may examine the AD docket on the Internet at https://
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 (telephone (800) 647-5527) is in the ADDRESSES
section. Comments will be available in the AD docket shortly after
receipt.
FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Doug Rudolph, Aerospace Engineer,
Small Airplane Directorate, 901 Locust, Room 301, Kansas City, Missouri
64106; telephone: (816) 329-4059; fax: (816) 329-4090.
SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION:
Discussion
The Federal Office of Civil Aviation (FOCA), which is the aviation
authority for Switzerland, has issued FOCA EMERGENCY AD HB-2008-242
[[Page 44146]]
(referred to after this as ``the MCAI''), to correct an unsafe
condition for the specified products. The MCAI states:
This Airworthiness Directive (AD) is prompted due to the
discovery of cracked or broken leaf springs P/N 6232.0175.01
installed in the overhead flap-operating mechanism of some PC-6
aircraft. A broken leaf spring could lead to an uncommanded flap
retraction which could lead to hazardous situations and subsequent
loss of control of the aircraft.
This AD is published by Federal Office of Civil Aviation (FOCA)
Switzerland, as State of production and because it is possible that
the leaf springs were not manufactured properly.
In order to correct and control the situation, this AD requires
the initial and repetitive inspections of the leaf springs in the
flap operating mechanism and the replacement of broken parts.
You may obtain further information by examining the MCAI in the AD
docket.
Relevant Service Information
Pilatus Aircraft Limited has issued Pilatus PC-6 Service Bulletin
No. 27-002 and Pilatus PC-6 Service Bulletin 27-003, both dated July 2,
2008. The actions described in this service information are intended to
correct the unsafe condition identified in the MCAI.
FAA's Determination and Requirements of the AD
This product has been approved by the aviation authority of another
country, and is approved for operation in the United States. Pursuant
to our bilateral agreement with this State of Design Authority, they
have notified us of the unsafe condition described in the MCAI and
service information referenced above. We are issuing this AD because we
evaluated all information provided by the State of Design Authority and
determined the unsafe condition exists and is likely to exist or
develop on other products of the same type design.
Differences Between This AD and the MCAI or Service Information
We have reviewed the MCAI and related service information and, in
general, agree with their substance. But we might have found it
necessary to use different words from those in the MCAI to ensure the
AD is clear for U.S. operators and is enforceable. In making these
changes, we do not intend to differ substantively from the information
provided in the MCAI and related service information.
The MCAI allows for replacement parts with like parts that are
prone to cracking. The reason for the 25-hour repetitive inspection is
because the cracks are occurring quickly. We believe that allowing
replacement with the same part numbers that are cracking when improved
design part numbers exist allows the unsafe condition to continue.
Therefore we are requiring replacement with the new improved part
numbers if cracks are found.
FAA's 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 a
broken leaf spring could lead to an uncommanded flap retraction and
lead to loss of control during final approach. Therefore, we determined
that notice and opportunity for public comment before issuing this AD
are impracticable and that good cause exists for making this amendment
effective in fewer than 30 days.
Comments Invited
This AD is a final rule that involves requirements affecting flight
safety, and we did not precede it by notice and opportunity for public
comment. We invite you to send any written relevant data, views, or
arguments about this AD. Send your comments to an address listed under
the ADDRESSES section. Include ``Docket No. FAA-2008-0822; Directorate
Identifier 2008-CE-045-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 https://
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.
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 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 regulatory evaluation of the estimated costs to
comply with this AD and placed it in the AD docket.
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 AD:
2008-16-03 Pilatus Aircraft Limited: Amendment 39-15621; Docket No.
FAA-2008-0822; Directorate Identifier 2008-CE-045-AD.
Effective Date
(a) This airworthiness directive (AD) becomes effective August
11, 2008.
Affected ADs
(b) None.
Applicability
(c) This AD applies to Models PC-6, PC-6-H1, PC-6-H2, PC-6/350,
PC-6/350-H1,
[[Page 44147]]
PC-6/350-H2, PC-6/A, PC-6/A-H1, PC-6/A-H2, PC-6/B-H2, PC-6/B1-H2,
PC-6/B2-H2, PC-6/B2-H4, PC-6/C-H2, and PC-6/C1-H2 airplanes,
manufacturer serial numbers (MSN) MSN 101 through MSN 999 and MSN
2001 through MSN 2092, certificated in any category, with
mechanically operated flaps and leaf springs, part number (P/N)
6232.0175.01 installed in the overhead flap-operating mechanism.
Note: These airplanes may also be identified as Fairchild
Republic Company PC-6 airplanes, Fairchild Heli Porter PC-6
airplanes, or Fairchild-Hiller Corporation PC-6 airplanes.
Subject
(d) Air Transport Association of America (ATA) Code 27: Flight
Controls.
Reason
(e) The mandatory continuing airworthiness information (MCAI)
states:
This Airworthiness Directive (AD) is prompted due to the
discovery of cracked or broken leaf springs P/N 6232.0175.01
installed in the overhead flap-operating mechanism of some PC-6
aircraft. A broken leaf spring could lead to an uncommanded flap
retraction which could lead to hazardous situations and subsequent
loss of control of the aircraft.
This AD is published by Federal Office of Civil Aviation (FOCA)
Switzerland, as State of production and because it is possible that
the leaf springs were not manufactured properly.
In order to correct and control the situation, this AD requires
the initial and repetitive inspections of the leaf springs in the
flap operating mechanism and the replacement of broken parts.
Actions and Compliance
(f) Unless already done, do the following actions:
(1) Before the next flight after the effective date of this AD,
do a visual inspection of the leaf springs installed in the overhead
flap-operating mechanism for cracks following Pilatus Aircraft Ltd.
Pilatus PC-6 Service Bulletin No. 27-002, dated July 2, 2008.
(2) If any cracks are found in the leaf springs installed in the
overhead flap-operating mechanism, before further flight, remove the
three leaf springs, P/N 6232.0175.01, installed in the overhead
flap-operating mechanism, and replace with three new leaf springs,
P/N 116.45.06.040, in the overhead flap-operating mechanism
following Pilatus Aircraft Ltd. Pilatus PC-6 Service Bulletin No.
27-003, dated July 2, 2008.
(3) Repetitively inspect thereafter at intervals not to exceed
25 hours time-in-service following Pilatus Aircraft Ltd. Pilatus PC-
6 Service Bulletin No. 27-002, dated July 2, 2008, until the
modification required in paragraph (f)(2) of this AD is done. If any
cracks are found in the leaf springs installed in the overhead flap-
operating mechanism, before further flight, remove the three leaf
springs, P/N 6232.0175.01, and replace with three new leaf springs,
P/N 116.45.06.040, following Pilatus Aircraft Ltd. Pilatus PC-6
Service Bulletin No. 27-003, dated July 2, 2008.
(4) As of the effective date of this AD, do not install any P/N
6232.0175.01 leaf spring in the overhead flap-operating mechanism.
Other FAA AD Provisions
(g) The following provisions also apply to this AD:
(1) Alternative Methods of Compliance (AMOCs): The Manager,
Standards Office, FAA, has the authority to approve AMOCs for this
AD, if requested using the procedures found in 14 CFR 39.19. Send
information to ATTN: Doug Rudolph, Aerospace Engineer, FAA, Small
Airplane Directorate, 901 Locust, Room 301, Kansas City, Missouri
64106; telephone: (816) 329-4059; fax: (816) 329-4090. Before using
any approved AMOC on any airplane to which the AMOC applies, notify
your appropriate principal inspector (PI) in the FAA Flight
Standards District Office (FSDO), or lacking a PI, your local FSDO.
(2) Airworthy Product: For any requirement in this AD to obtain
corrective actions from a manufacturer or other source, use these
actions if they are FAA-approved. Corrective actions are considered
FAA-approved if they are approved by the State of Design Authority
(or their delegated agent). You are required to assure the product
is airworthy before it is returned to service.
(3) Reporting Requirements: For any reporting requirement in
this AD, under the provisions of the Paperwork Reduction Act (44
U.S.C. 3501 et seq.), the Office of Management and Budget (OMB) has
approved the information collection requirements and has assigned
OMB Control Number 2120-0056.
Special Flight Permit
(h) If cracks are detected during the inspection required in
(f)(1) or (f)(3) of this AD, no further flight is permitted until
the modification required in paragraph (f)(2) or (f)(3) of this AD
is done.
Related Information
(i) Refer to MCAI FOCA EMERGENCY AD HB-2008-242, dated July 4,
2008, and Pilatus Aircraft Ltd. Pilatus PC-6 Service Bulletin No.
27-002 and Pilatus Aircraft Ltd. Pilatus PC-6 Service Bulletin 27-
003, both dated July 2, 2008, for related information.
Material Incorporated by Reference
(j) You must use Pilatus Aircraft Ltd. Pilatus PC-6 Service
Bulletin No. 27-002 and Pilatus Aircraft Ltd. Pilatus PC-6 Service
Bulletin 27-003, both dated July 2, 2008 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
Pilatus Aircraft Ltd., Customer Liaison Manager, CH 6371 STANS,
Switzerland; telephone: + 41 (0)41 619 6580; fax: + 41 (0)41 619
6576; e-mail: fodermatt@pilatusaircaft.com.
(3) You may review copies at the FAA, Central Region, Office of
the Regional Counsel, 901 Locust, Room 506, Kansas City, Missouri
64106; 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: https://www.archives.gov/federal-
register/cfr/ibr-locations.html.
Issued in Kansas City, Missouri, on July 23, 2008.
John Colomy,
Acting Manager, Small Airplane Directorate, Aircraft Certification
Service.
[FR Doc. E8-17331 Filed 7-29-08; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE 4910-13-P
