Airworthiness Directives; PILATUS Aircraft Ltd. Model PC-7 Airplanes, 52156-52158 [E9-24450]

Download as PDF 52156 Federal Register / Vol. 74, No. 195 / Friday, October 9, 2009 / Proposed Rules For the reasons set forth in the preamble, 7 CFR part 984 is proposed to be amended as follows: PART 984—WALNUTS GROWN IN CALIFORNIA 1. The authority citation for 7 CFR part 984 continues to read as follows: Authority: 7 U.S.C. 601–674. 2. Section 984.445 is revised to read as follows: § 984.445 Procedures for voting by mail, email, telephone, videoconference, facsimile, or any other means of communication. (a) Whenever the Board votes upon any proposition by mail, e-mail, or facsimile, at least six members or alternates acting as members must vote and one dissenting vote shall prevent its adoption. Each proposition to be voted upon by mail, e-mail, or facsimile shall specify a time limit for members to vote, after which the alternates shall be given the opportunity to vote. (b) Whenever the Board conducts meetings by telephone, videoconference, or any technology that enables member interaction, the vote shall be conducted by roll call. Dated: October 1, 2009. Rayne Pegg, Administrator, Agricultural Marketing Service. [FR Doc. E9–24299 Filed 10–8–09; 8:45 am] BILLING CODE P DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION Federal Aviation Administration 14 CFR Part 39 [Docket No. FAA–2009–0938; Directorate Identifier 2009–CE–052–AD] RIN 2120–AA64 Airworthiness Directives; PILATUS Aircraft Ltd. Model PC–7 Airplanes erowe on DSK5CLS3C1PROD with PROPOSALS-1 AGENCY: Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), Department of Transportation (DOT). ACTION: Notice of proposed rulemaking (NPRM). SUMMARY: We propose to adopt a new airworthiness directive (AD) for the products listed above. This proposed AD results from mandatory continuing airworthiness information (MCAI) originated by an aviation authority of another country to identify and correct an unsafe condition on an aviation product. The MCAI describes the unsafe condition as: VerDate Nov<24>2008 13:26 Oct 08, 2009 Jkt 220001 This Airworthiness Directive (AD) is prompted due to the discovery of cracks caused by stress corrosion in the main-gear support struts. All the main-gear support struts that had cracks were made from material AA2024–T351 which has a lower resistance to stress corrosion cracking. Such cracks, if undetected, could lead to the failure of the strut during landing which could then cause the Main Landing Gear (MLG) to collapse. The proposed AD would require actions that are intended to address the unsafe condition described in the MCAI. DATES: We must receive comments on this proposed AD by November 23, 2009. 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. ADDRESSES: 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 proposed 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, FAA, Small Airplane Directorate, 901 Locust, Room 301, Kansas City, Missouri 64106; telephone: (816) 329– 4059; fax: (816) 329–4090; e-mail: doug.rudolph@faa.gov. your comments. We specifically invite comments on the overall regulatory, economic, environmental, and energy aspects of this proposed AD. We will consider all comments received by the closing date and may amend this proposed 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 proposed AD. Discussion The Federal Office of Civil Aviation (FOCA), which is the aviation authority for Switzerland, has issued FOCA AD HB–2009–011, dated September 10, 2009 (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 cracks caused by stress corrosion in the main-gear support struts. All the main-gear support struts that had cracks were made from material AA2024–T351 which has a lower resistance to stress corrosion cracking. Such cracks, if undetected, could lead to the failure of the strut during landing which could then cause the Main Landing Gear (MLG) to collapse. In order to correct and control the situation, this AD mandates the identification of the main-gear support struts to check if they have rounded clevis lugs and a NonDestructive Inspection (NDI) procedure on the main-gear support struts if they have chamfered clevis lugs. For main-gear support struts with chamfered clevis lugs that show cracks during the NDI, the MCAI also requires replacing any cracked main-gear support struts with parts of improved design. You may obtain further information by examining the MCAI in the AD docket. Comments Invited Relevant Service Information PILATUS Aircraft Ltd. has issued PILATUS PC–7 Service Bulletin No. 32– 024, Rev. No. 1, dated November 17, 2008; and PILATUS PC–7 Service Bulletin No. 32–025, Rev. No. 1, dated November 17, 2008. The actions described in this service information are intended to correct the unsafe condition identified in the MCAI. We invite you to send any written relevant data, views, or arguments about this proposed AD. Send your comments to an address listed under the ADDRESSES section. Include ‘‘Docket No. FAA–2009–0938; Directorate Identifier 2009–CE–052–AD’’ at the beginning of FAA’s Determination and Requirements of the Proposed 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 SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: PO 00000 Frm 00003 Fmt 4702 Sfmt 4702 E:\FR\FM\09OCP1.SGM 09OCP1 Federal Register / Vol. 74, No. 195 / Friday, October 9, 2009 / Proposed Rules Design Authority, they have notified us of the unsafe condition described in the MCAI and service information referenced above. We are proposing this AD because we evaluated all information and determined the unsafe condition exists and is likely to exist or develop on other products of the same type design. Differences Between This Proposed 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. We might also have proposed different actions in this AD from those in the MCAI in order to follow FAA policies. Any such differences are highlighted in a NOTE within the proposed AD. erowe on DSK5CLS3C1PROD with PROPOSALS-1 Costs of Compliance We estimate that this proposed AD will affect 10 products of U.S. registry. We also estimate that it would take about 4 work-hours per product to comply with the basic requirements of this proposed AD. The average labor rate is $80 per work-hour. Based on these figures, we estimate the cost of the proposed AD on U.S. operators to be $3,200, or $320 per product. In addition, we estimate that any necessary follow-on actions would take about 20 work-hours and require parts costing $20,000, for a cost of $21,600 per product. We have no way of determining the number of products that may need these actions. 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 VerDate Nov<24>2008 13:26 Oct 08, 2009 Jkt 220001 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. 52157 (1) Equipped with main-gear support struts part number (P/N) 532.10.09.039 or P/N 114.48.07.172; and (2) Certificated in any category. Regulatory Findings Subject (d) Air Transport Association of America (ATA) Code 32: Landing Gear. We determined that this proposed AD would not have federalism implications under Executive Order 13132. This proposed AD would 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 this proposed regulation: 1. Is not a ‘‘significant regulatory action’’ under Executive Order 12866; 2. Is not a ‘‘significant rule’’ under the 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 proposed AD and placed it in the AD docket. Reason (e) The mandatory continuing airworthiness information (MCAI) states: This Airworthiness Directive (AD) is prompted due to the discovery of cracks caused by stress corrosion in the main-gear support struts. All the main-gear support struts that had cracks were made from material AA2024–T351 which has a lower resistance to stress corrosion cracking. Such cracks, if undetected, could lead to the failure of the strut during landing which could then cause the Main Landing Gear (MLG) to collapse. In order to correct and control the situation, this AD mandates the identification of the main-gear support struts to check if they have rounded clevis lugs and a NonDestructive Inspection (NDI) procedure on the main-gear support struts if they have chamfered clevis lugs. For main-gear support struts with chamfered clevis lugs that show cracks during the NDI, the MCAI also requires replacing any cracked main-gear support struts with parts of improved design. You may obtain further information by examining the MCAI in the AD docket. List of Subjects in 14 CFR Part 39 Air transportation, Aircraft, Aviation safety, Incorporation by reference, Safety. The Proposed Amendment Accordingly, under the authority delegated to me by the Administrator, the FAA proposes to amend 14 CFR part 39 as follows: PART 39—AIRWORTHINESS DIRECTIVES 1. The authority citation for part 39 continues to read as follows: Authority: 49 U.S.C. 106(g), 40113, 44701. § 39.13 [Amended] 2. The FAA amends § 39.13 by adding the following new AD: PILATUS Aircraft Ltd: Docket No. FAA– 2009–0938; Directorate Identifier 2009– CE–052–AD. Comments Due Date (a) We must receive comments by November 23, 2009. Affected ADs (b) None. Applicability (c) This AD applies to Model PC–7 airplanes, manufacturer serial numbers 101 through 618 that are: PO 00000 Frm 00004 Fmt 4702 Sfmt 4702 Actions and Compliance (f) Unless already done, do the following actions: (1) Within the next 30 hours time-inservice (TIS) after the effective date of this AD or within the next 30 days after the effective date of this AD, whichever occurs first, visually inspect the left and right maingear support struts to determine if they have rounded or chamfered clevis lugs. Do the inspection following paragraph 3.A. of PILATUS PC–7 Service Bulletin No. 32–024, Rev. No. 1, dated November 17, 2008. (2) Based on the results of the inspection required in paragraph (f)(1) of this AD, if the main-gear support strut has rounded clevis lugs, no further action is required except the requirement specified in paragraph (f)(4) of this AD still applies. Make an entry in the airplane logbook to show compliance with this AD. (3) Based on the results of the inspection required in paragraph (f)(1) of this AD, if the main-gear support strut has chamfered clevis lugs, before further flight do a NonDestructive Inspection (NDI). Do the NDI following paragraphs 3.B. through 3.E. of PILATUS PC–7 Service Bulletin No. 32–024, Rev. No. 1, dated November 17, 2008. (i) If cracks are found during the inspection required in paragraph (f)(3) of this AD: (A) Before further flight after the inspection, replace any cracked main-gear support struts with new main-gear support struts, P/N 532.10.09.128. Do the replacement following PILATUS PC–7 Service Bulletin No. 32–025, Rev. No. 1, dated November 17, 2008. E:\FR\FM\09OCP1.SGM 09OCP1 52158 Federal Register / Vol. 74, No. 195 / Friday, October 9, 2009 / Proposed Rules (B) Within the next 10 days after the inspection, report the cracks to PILATUS AIRCRAFT LTD., Customer Liaison Manager, CH–6371 STANS, Switzerland, using the Crack Report Form (Figure 4) in PILATUS PC–7 Service Bulletin No. 32–024, Rev. No. 1, dated November 17, 2008. The Office of Management and Budget (OMB) approved the information collection requirements contained in this regulation under the provisions of the Paperwork Reduction Act and assigned OMB Control Number 2120– 0056. (ii) If no cracks are found during the inspection required in paragraph (f)(3) of this AD, no further action is required. Make an entry in the airplane logbook to show compliance with this AD. (4) As of 30 days after the effective date of this AD, do not install any main-gear support struts, P/N 532.10.09.039 or P/N 114.48.07.172, with chamfered clevis lugs. Note 1: If you have any main-gear support struts, P/N 532.10.09.039 or P/N 114.48.07.172, with chamfered clevis lugs held as spares, you may return them to PILATUS AIRCRAFT LTD., Customer Liaison Manager, CH–6371 STANS, Switzerland, for replacement with a new main-gear support strut, P/N 532.10.09.128. dated November 17, 2008; and PILATUS PC– 7 Service Bulletin No. 32–025, Rev. No. 1, dated November 17, 2008, for related information. Issued in Kansas City, Missouri, on October 5, 2009. John Colomy, Acting Manager, Small Airplane Directorate, Aircraft Certification Service. [FR Doc. E9–24450 Filed 10–8–09; 8:45 am] BILLING CODE 4910–13–P DEPARTMENT OF HOMELAND SECURITY Coast Guard 33 CFR Part 117 [Docket No. USCG–2009–0754] RIN 1625–AA09 Drawbridge Operation Regulation; Elizabeth River, Eastern Branch, Norfolk, VA Coast Guard, DHS. Notice of proposed rulemaking. AGENCY: Note 2: This AD differs from the MCAI and/or service information as follows: No differences. erowe on DSK5CLS3C1PROD with PROPOSALS-1 ACTION: SUMMARY: The Coast Guard proposes to temporarily change the regulations that govern the operation of the Berkley Bridge, mile 0.4, across the Eastern Branch of the Elizabeth River, Norfolk, VA. Due to the temporary closure of two area bridges, the Berkley Bridge has experienced an increase in traffic volume. The proposed change would provide set opening periods for the bridge during the day, relieving vehicular traffic congestion during the weekday daytime hours while still providing for the reasonable needs of navigation. DATES: Comments, related material, and requests for public meeting must be received by the Coast Guard on or before December 8, 2009. ADDRESSES: You may submit comments identified by docket number USCG– 2009–0754 using any one of the following methods: • Federal eRulemaking Portal: https:// www.regulations.gov. • Fax: 202–493–2251. • Mail: Docket Management Facility (M–30), U.S. Department of Transportation, West Building Ground Floor, Room W12–140, 1200 New Jersey Avenue, SE., Washington, DC 20590– 0001. • Hand delivery: Same as mail address above, between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m., Monday through Friday, except Federal holidays. The telephone number is 202–366–9329. To avoid duplication, please use only one of these methods. See the ‘‘Public Related Information (h) Refer to MCAI FOCA AD HB–2009–011, dated September 10, 2009; and PILATUS PC– 7 Service Bulletin No. 32–024, Rev. No. 1, VerDate Nov<24>2008 13:26 Oct 08, 2009 Jkt 220001 PO 00000 Frm 00005 Fmt 4702 Sfmt 4702 FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: If you have questions on this proposed rule, call or e-mail Waverly Gregory, Bridge Administrator, Fifth Coast Guard District, telephone 757–398–6222, e-mail Waverly.W.Gregory@uscg.mil. If you have questions on viewing or submitting material to the docket, call Renee V. Wright, Program Manager, Docket Operations, telephone 202–366– 9826. SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: Public Participation and Request for Comments FAA AD Differences 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; e-mail: doug.rudolph@faa.gov. 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. Participation and Request for Comments’’ portion of the SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION section below for instructions on submitting comments. We encourage you to participate in this rulemaking by submitting comments and related material. All comments received will be posted, without change to https:// www.regulations.gov and will include any personal information you have provided. Submitting Comments If you submit a comment, please include the docket number for this rulemaking (USCG–2009–0754), indicate the specific section of this document to which each comment applies, and provide a reason for each suggestion or recommendation. You may submit your comments and material online (https:// www.regulations.gov), or by fax, mail or hand delivery, but please use only one of these means. If you submit a comment online via https:// www.regulations.gov, it will be considered received by the Coast Guard when you successfully transmit the comment. If you fax, hand delivery, or mail your comment, it will be considered as having been received by the Coast Guard when it is received at the Docket Management Facility. We recommend that you include your name and a mailing address, an e-mail address, or a phone number in the body of your document so that we can contact you if we have questions regarding your submission. To submit your comment online, go to https://www.regulations.gov, click on the ‘‘Submit a Comment’’ box, which will then become highlighted in blue. In the ‘‘Document Type’’ drop down menu select ‘‘Proposed Rules’’ and insert ‘‘USCG–2009–0754’’ in the ‘‘Keyword’’ box. Click ‘‘Search’’ then click on the balloon shape in the ‘‘Actions’’ column. If you submit your comments by mail or hand delivery, submit them in an E:\FR\FM\09OCP1.SGM 09OCP1

Agencies

[Federal Register Volume 74, Number 195 (Friday, October 9, 2009)]
[Proposed Rules]
[Pages 52156-52158]
From the Federal Register Online via the Government Printing Office [www.gpo.gov]
[FR Doc No: E9-24450]


=======================================================================
-----------------------------------------------------------------------

DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION

Federal Aviation Administration

14 CFR Part 39

[Docket No. FAA-2009-0938; Directorate Identifier 2009-CE-052-AD]
RIN 2120-AA64


Airworthiness Directives; PILATUS Aircraft Ltd. Model PC-7 
Airplanes

AGENCY: Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), Department of 
Transportation (DOT).

ACTION: Notice of proposed rulemaking (NPRM).

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

SUMMARY: We propose to adopt a new airworthiness directive (AD) for the 
products listed above. This proposed AD results from mandatory 
continuing airworthiness information (MCAI) originated by an 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 cracks caused by stress corrosion in the main-gear 
support struts. All the main-gear support struts that had cracks 
were made from material AA2024-T351 which has a lower resistance to 
stress corrosion cracking.
    Such cracks, if undetected, could lead to the failure of the 
strut during landing which could then cause the Main Landing Gear 
(MLG) to collapse.

The proposed AD would require actions that are intended to address the 
unsafe condition described in the MCAI.

DATES: We must receive comments on this proposed AD by November 23, 
2009.

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 proposed 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, FAA, 
Small Airplane Directorate, 901 Locust, Room 301, Kansas City, Missouri 
64106; telephone: (816) 329-4059; fax: (816) 329-4090; e-mail: 
doug.rudolph@faa.gov.

SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION:

Comments Invited

    We invite you to send any written relevant data, views, or 
arguments about this proposed AD. Send your comments to an address 
listed under the ADDRESSES section. Include ``Docket No. FAA-2009-0938; 
Directorate Identifier 2009-CE-052-AD'' at the beginning of your 
comments. We specifically invite comments on the overall regulatory, 
economic, environmental, and energy aspects of this proposed AD. We 
will consider all comments received by the closing date and may amend 
this proposed 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 proposed AD.

Discussion

    The Federal Office of Civil Aviation (FOCA), which is the aviation 
authority for Switzerland, has issued FOCA AD HB-2009-011, dated 
September 10, 2009 (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 cracks caused by stress corrosion in the main-gear 
support struts. All the main-gear support struts that had cracks 
were made from material AA2024-T351 which has a lower resistance to 
stress corrosion cracking.
    Such cracks, if undetected, could lead to the failure of the 
strut during landing which could then cause the Main Landing Gear 
(MLG) to collapse.
    In order to correct and control the situation, this AD mandates 
the identification of the main-gear support struts to check if they 
have rounded clevis lugs and a Non-Destructive Inspection (NDI) 
procedure on the main-gear support struts if they have chamfered 
clevis lugs.

For main-gear support struts with chamfered clevis lugs that show 
cracks during the NDI, the MCAI also requires replacing any cracked 
main-gear support struts with parts of improved design. You may obtain 
further information by examining the MCAI in the AD docket.

Relevant Service Information

    PILATUS Aircraft Ltd. has issued PILATUS PC-7 Service Bulletin No. 
32-024, Rev. No. 1, dated November 17, 2008; and PILATUS PC-7 Service 
Bulletin No. 32-025, Rev. No. 1, dated November 17, 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 Proposed 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

[[Page 52157]]

Design Authority, they have notified us of the unsafe condition 
described in the MCAI and service information referenced above. We are 
proposing this AD because we evaluated all information and determined 
the unsafe condition exists and is likely to exist or develop on other 
products of the same type design.

Differences Between This Proposed 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.
    We might also have proposed different actions in this AD from those 
in the MCAI in order to follow FAA policies. Any such differences are 
highlighted in a NOTE within the proposed AD.

Costs of Compliance

    We estimate that this proposed AD will affect 10 products of U.S. 
registry. We also estimate that it would take about 4 work-hours per 
product to comply with the basic requirements of this proposed AD. The 
average labor rate is $80 per work-hour.
    Based on these figures, we estimate the cost of the proposed AD on 
U.S. operators to be $3,200, or $320 per product.
    In addition, we estimate that any necessary follow-on actions would 
take about 20 work-hours and require parts costing $20,000, for a cost 
of $21,600 per product. We have no way of determining the number of 
products that may need these actions.

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 proposed AD would not have federalism 
implications under Executive Order 13132. This proposed AD would 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 this proposed 
regulation:
    1. Is not a ``significant regulatory action'' under Executive Order 
12866;
    2. Is not a ``significant rule'' under the 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 proposed 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.

The Proposed Amendment

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

PART 39--AIRWORTHINESS DIRECTIVES

    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]

    2. The FAA amends Sec.  39.13 by adding the following new AD:

PILATUS Aircraft Ltd: Docket No. FAA-2009-0938; Directorate 
Identifier 2009-CE-052-AD.

Comments Due Date

    (a) We must receive comments by November 23, 2009.

Affected ADs

    (b) None.

Applicability

    (c) This AD applies to Model PC-7 airplanes, manufacturer serial 
numbers 101 through 618 that are:
    (1) Equipped with main-gear support struts part number (P/N) 
532.10.09.039 or P/N 114.48.07.172; and
    (2) Certificated in any category.

Subject

    (d) Air Transport Association of America (ATA) Code 32: Landing 
Gear.

Reason

    (e) The mandatory continuing airworthiness information (MCAI) 
states:

    This Airworthiness Directive (AD) is prompted due to the 
discovery of cracks caused by stress corrosion in the main-gear 
support struts. All the main-gear support struts that had cracks 
were made from material AA2024-T351 which has a lower resistance to 
stress corrosion cracking.
    Such cracks, if undetected, could lead to the failure of the 
strut during landing which could then cause the Main Landing Gear 
(MLG) to collapse.
    In order to correct and control the situation, this AD mandates 
the identification of the main-gear support struts to check if they 
have rounded clevis lugs and a Non-Destructive Inspection (NDI) 
procedure on the main-gear support struts if they have chamfered 
clevis lugs.

For main-gear support struts with chamfered clevis lugs that show 
cracks during the NDI, the MCAI also requires replacing any cracked 
main-gear support struts with parts of improved design. You may 
obtain further information by examining the MCAI in the AD docket.

Actions and Compliance

    (f) Unless already done, do the following actions:
    (1) Within the next 30 hours time-in-service (TIS) after the 
effective date of this AD or within the next 30 days after the 
effective date of this AD, whichever occurs first, visually inspect 
the left and right main-gear support struts to determine if they 
have rounded or chamfered clevis lugs. Do the inspection following 
paragraph 3.A. of PILATUS PC-7 Service Bulletin No. 32-024, Rev. No. 
1, dated November 17, 2008.
    (2) Based on the results of the inspection required in paragraph 
(f)(1) of this AD, if the main-gear support strut has rounded clevis 
lugs, no further action is required except the requirement specified 
in paragraph (f)(4) of this AD still applies. Make an entry in the 
airplane logbook to show compliance with this AD.
    (3) Based on the results of the inspection required in paragraph 
(f)(1) of this AD, if the main-gear support strut has chamfered 
clevis lugs, before further flight do a Non-Destructive Inspection 
(NDI). Do the NDI following paragraphs 3.B. through 3.E. of PILATUS 
PC-7 Service Bulletin No. 32-024, Rev. No. 1, dated November 17, 
2008.
    (i) If cracks are found during the inspection required in 
paragraph (f)(3) of this AD:
    (A) Before further flight after the inspection, replace any 
cracked main-gear support struts with new main-gear support struts, 
P/N 532.10.09.128. Do the replacement following PILATUS PC-7 Service 
Bulletin No. 32-025, Rev. No. 1, dated November 17, 2008.

[[Page 52158]]

    (B) Within the next 10 days after the inspection, report the 
cracks to PILATUS AIRCRAFT LTD., Customer Liaison Manager, CH-6371 
STANS, Switzerland, using the Crack Report Form (Figure 4) in 
PILATUS PC-7 Service Bulletin No. 32-024, Rev. No. 1, dated November 
17, 2008. The Office of Management and Budget (OMB) approved the 
information collection requirements contained in this regulation 
under the provisions of the Paperwork Reduction Act and assigned OMB 
Control Number 2120-0056.
    (ii) If no cracks are found during the inspection required in 
paragraph (f)(3) of this AD, no further action is required. Make an 
entry in the airplane logbook to show compliance with this AD.
    (4) As of 30 days after the effective date of this AD, do not 
install any main-gear support struts, P/N 532.10.09.039 or P/N 
114.48.07.172, with chamfered clevis lugs.

    Note 1: If you have any main-gear support struts, P/N 
532.10.09.039 or P/N 114.48.07.172, with chamfered clevis lugs held 
as spares, you may return them to PILATUS AIRCRAFT LTD., Customer 
Liaison Manager, CH-6371 STANS, Switzerland, for replacement with a 
new main-gear support strut, P/N 532.10.09.128.

FAA AD Differences

    Note 2: This AD differs from the MCAI and/or service information 
as follows: No differences.

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; e-mail: 
doug.rudolph@faa.gov. 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.

Related Information

    (h) Refer to MCAI FOCA AD HB-2009-011, dated September 10, 2009; 
and PILATUS PC-7 Service Bulletin No. 32-024, Rev. No. 1, dated 
November 17, 2008; and PILATUS PC-7 Service Bulletin No. 32-025, 
Rev. No. 1, dated November 17, 2008, for related information.

    Issued in Kansas City, Missouri, on October 5, 2009.
John Colomy,
Acting Manager, Small Airplane Directorate, Aircraft Certification 
Service.
[FR Doc. E9-24450 Filed 10-8-09; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE 4910-13-P
This site is protected by reCAPTCHA and the Google Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply.