Airworthiness Directives; PILATUS AIRCRAFT LTD. Model PC-12/47E Airplanes, 65493-65496 [E9-29457]
Download as PDF
Federal Register / Vol. 74, No. 236 / Thursday, December 10, 2009 / Proposed Rules
• We refer to the compliance time as
‘‘hours time-in-service’’ rather than
‘‘flying hours’’ and
• We do not require returning spares
to the manufacturer.
We prepared an economic evaluation
of the estimated costs to comply with
this proposed AD and placed it in the
AD docket.
Costs of Compliance
Air transportation, Aircraft, Aviation
safety, Safety.
We estimate that this proposed AD
would affect about 96 helicopters of
U.S. registry. We also estimate that it
would take about 2 work-hours per
helicopter to do the proposed actions.
The average labor rate is $80 per workhour. Required parts would cost about
$8,335 per helicopter. Based on these
figures, we estimate the cost of the
proposed AD on U.S. operators would
be $815,520, or $8,495 per helicopter,
assuming that the drive shaft is replaced
on each helicopter.
Authority for This Rulemaking
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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.
Therefore, I certify this proposed AD:
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.
17:17 Dec 09, 2009
Jkt 220001
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
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
product(s) identified in this rulemaking
action.
VerDate Nov<24>2008
List of Subjects in 14 CFR Part 39
[Amended]
65493
airworthy drive shaft that is not included in
the applicability of this AD.
Differences Between This AD and the MCAI
AD
(f) This AD differs from the MCAI AD as
follows:
(1) We refer to the compliance time as
‘‘hours time-in-service’’ rather than ‘‘flying
hours’’ and
(2) We do not require returning spares to
the manufacturer.
Other Information
(g) Alternative Methods of Compliance
(AMOCs): The Manager, Safety Management
Group, FAA, ATTN: Uday Garadi, Aviation
Safety Engineer, Regulations and Guidance
Group, FAA, Rotorcraft Directorate, 2601
Meacham Blvd., Fort Worth, Texas 76137,
telephone (817) 222–5123, fax (817) 222–
5961, has the authority to approve AMOCs
for this AD, if requested using the procedures
found in 14 CFR 39.19.
Eurocopter France: Docket No. FAA–2009–
1090; Directorate Identifier 2009–SW–
31–AD.
Related Information
(h) European Aviation Safety Agency
(EASA) AD No. 2006–0100, dated April 24,
2006, and Eurocopter Alert Service Bulletin
No. 01.00.51, Revision 1, dated February 9,
2006, contain related information.
Comments Due Date
(a) We must receive your comments by
January 11, 2010.
Joint Aircraft System/Component (JASC)
Code
(i) JASC Code 6510: Tail rotor drive shaft.
Other Affected ADs
(b) None.
Issued in Fort Worth, Texas on November
23, 2009.
Mark R. Schilling,
Acting Manager, Rotorcraft Directorate,
Aircraft Certification Service.
[FR Doc. E9–29431 Filed 12–9–09; 8:45 am]
2. The FAA amends § 39.13 by adding
the following new AD:
Applicability
(c) This AD applies to Model AS355E,
AS355F, AS355F1, AS355F2, and AS355N
helicopters with tail rotor drive shaft forward
shaft section, part number 355A 34–1090–00,
serial number 858 through 873 (inclusive)
with a prefix ‘‘M,’’ certificated in any
category. This AD does not apply to
helicopters manufactured after January 1,
2005.
Reason
(d) The mandatory continuing
airworthiness information (MCAI) AD states
that a metallurgical non-conformity was
discovered on a flange of the forward shaft
section of the tail rotor drive shaft (drive
shaft). The MCAI AD also states that stress
analysis has shown that this non-conformity
can significantly reduce the strength of the
drive shaft and thereby its service life. This
AD is intended to remove non-conforming
drive shafts from service and prevent failure
of the drive shaft and subsequent loss of
control of the helicopter.
Actions and Compliance
(e) Unless already accomplished, do the
following:
(1) For any drive shaft that has less than
2,400 hours time-in-service (TIS), on or
before reaching 2,500 hours TIS, remove the
drive shaft and replace it with an airworthy
drive shaft that is not included in the
applicability of this AD.
(2) For any drive shaft with 2,400 or more
hours TIS, within the next 100 hours TIS,
remove the drive shaft and replace it with an
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BILLING CODE 4910–13–P
DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION
Federal Aviation Administration
14 CFR Part 39
[Docket No. FAA–2009–1158; Directorate
Identifier 2009–CE–063–AD]
RIN 2120–AA64
Airworthiness Directives; PILATUS
AIRCRAFT LTD. Model PC–12/47E
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 that would
supersede an existing AD. 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
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Federal Register / Vol. 74, No. 236 / Thursday, December 10, 2009 / Proposed Rules
Comments Invited
aviation product. The MCAI describes
the unsafe condition as:
Field reports have indicated that the
possibility exists that both Primary Flight
Displays (PFDs) could indicate a roll attitude
offset of up to 10 degrees in the same
direction if an accelerated turn onto the
active runway is performed immediately
followed by take-off. In addition,
annunciated heading splits have been
reported. This condition has been reported to
correct itself after several minutes.
Additionally, if the aeroplane is operating
in geographical latitudes with low horizontal
magnetic field strength, incorrect heading
may be displayed if the ADAHRS switches
from GPS track to magnetometer heading
while the aeroplane is on the ground.
This situation, if not corrected, could result
in an undesired bank angle, heading splits
and/or incorrect heading, which would
constitute an unsafe condition.
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 January 25, 2010.
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.
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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.
SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION:
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17:17 Dec 09, 2009
Jkt 220001
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–2009–1158; Directorate Identifier
2009–CE–063–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://
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
On April 8, 2009, we issued AD 2009–
08–10, Amendment 39–15883 (74 FR
17384, April 15, 2009). That AD
required actions intended to address an
unsafe condition on the products listed
above.
Since we issued AD 2009–08–10, an
updated air data, attitude, and heading
reference system version with improved
software was developed.
The European Aviation Safety Agency
(EASA), which is the Technical Agent
for the Member States of the European
Community, has issued AD No.: 2009–
0249, dated November 20, 2009
(referred to after this as ‘‘the MCAI’’), to
correct an unsafe condition for the
specified products. The MCAI states:
Field reports have indicated that the
possibility exists that both Primary Flight
Displays (PFDs) could indicate a roll attitude
offset of up to 10 degrees in the same
direction if an accelerated turn onto the
active runway is performed immediately
followed by take-off. In addition,
annunciated heading splits have been
reported. This condition has been reported to
correct itself after several minutes.
Additionally, if the aeroplane is operating
in geographical latitudes with low horizontal
magnetic field strength, incorrect heading
may be displayed if the ADAHRS switches
from GPS track to magnetometer heading
while the aeroplane is on the ground.
This situation, if not corrected, could result
in an undesired bank angle, heading splits
and/or incorrect heading, which would
constitute an unsafe condition.
As a short-term interim measure, AD 2009–
0028–E has been released in February 2009
to limit at 30° the bank angle during climb.
Afterwards, as a result of the ongoing
investigation, the problem has been
temporarily addressed with some limitations
in the take-off procedure. These limitations
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Sfmt 4702
have been mandated by AD 2009–0080–E
which superseded AD 2009–0028–E.
In order to terminate the operational
limitations, an updated ADAHRS version
with improved software was developed.
For the reasons described above this AD
supersedes AD 2009–0080–E and mandates
as a terminating action either an update of
the ADAHRS software or the replacement of
the ADAHRS unit. From MSN 1181 and
subsequent an improved ADAHRS unit was
implemented during production.
You may obtain further information
by examining the MCAI in the AD
docket.
Relevant Service Information
PILATUS AIRCRAFT LTD. has issued
PILATUS PC–12 Service Bulletin No:
34–022, dated October 5, 2009.
Honeywell International Inc. has issued
Service Bulletin KSG 7200–34–09,
Revision 0, dated September 24, 2009.
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
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 50 products of U.S. registry.
We also estimate that it would take
about 6 work-hours per product to
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Federal Register / Vol. 74, No. 236 / Thursday, December 10, 2009 / Proposed Rules
comply with the basic requirements of
this proposed AD. The average labor
rate is $80 per work-hour. Required
parts would cost about $0 per product.
Where the service information lists
required parts costs that are covered
under warranty, we have assumed that
there will be no charge for these costs.
As we do not control warranty coverage
for affected parties, some parties may
incur costs higher than estimated here.
Based on these figures, we estimate
the cost of the proposed AD on U.S.
operators to be $24,000, or $480 per
product.
Authority for This Rulemaking
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
Regulatory Findings
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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.
Reason
(e) The mandatory continuing
airworthiness information (MCAI) states:
Field reports have indicated that the
possibility exists that both Primary Flight
Displays (PFDs) could indicate a roll attitude
offset of up to 10 degrees in the same
direction if an accelerated turn onto the
active runway is performed immediately
followed by take-off. In addition,
annunciated heading splits have been
reported. This condition has been reported to
correct itself after several minutes.
Additionally, if the aeroplane is operating
in geographical latitudes with low horizontal
magnetic field strength, incorrect heading
may be displayed if the ADAHRS switches
from GPS track to magnetometer heading
while the aeroplane is on the ground.
This situation, if not corrected, could result
in an undesired bank angle, heading splits
and/or incorrect heading, which would
constitute an unsafe condition.
As a short-term interim measure, AD 2009–
0028–E has been released in February 2009
to limit at 30° the bank angle during climb.
Afterwards, as a result of the ongoing
investigation, the problem has been
temporarily addressed with some limitations
in the take-off procedure. These limitations
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.
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17:17 Dec 09, 2009
Jkt 220001
[Amended]
2. The FAA amends § 39.13 by
removing Amendment 39–15883 (74 FR
17384, April 15, 2009), and adding the
following new AD:
PILATUS AIRCRAFT LTD.: Docket No.
FAA–2009–1158; Directorate Identifier
2009–CE–063–AD.
Comments Due Date
(a) We must receive comments by January
25, 2010.
Affected ADs
(b) This AD supersedes AD 2009–08–10,
Amendment 39–15883.
Applicability
(c) This AD applies to Models PC–12/47E
airplanes, all manufacturer serial numbers
(MSN), certificated in any category.
Subject
(d) Air Transport Association of America
(ATA) Code 34: Navigation.
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65495
have been mandated by AD 2009–0080–E
which superseded AD 2009–0028–E.
In order to terminate the operational
limitations, an updated ADAHRS version
with improved software was developed.
For the reasons described above this AD
supersedes AD 2009–0080–E and mandates
as a terminating action either an update of
the ADAHRS software or the replacement of
the ADAHRS unit.
From MSN 1181 and subsequent an
improved ADAHRS unit was implemented
during production.
Actions and Compliance
(f) Unless already done, do the following
actions:
(1) For MSN 545 and MSN 1001 through
MSN 1180, before further flight after April
20, 2009 (the effective date of AD 2009–08–
10), incorporate PILATUS AIRCRAFT LTD.
Temporary Revision No. 11 to PC–12/47E
Pilot’s Operating Handbook (POH), Report
No. 02277, dated March 18, 2009, into the
Pilatus PC–12/47E POH. The owner/operator
holding at least a private pilot certificate as
authorized by section 43.7 of the Federal
Aviation Regulations 14 CFR 43.7 may do
this action. Make an entry in the aircraft
records showing compliance with this
portion of the AD following 14 CFR 43.9.
(2) For MSN 545 and MSN 1001 through
MSN 1180, within 180 days after the effective
date of this AD:
(i) Update the air data, attitude, and
heading reference system (ADAHRS)
software following the accomplishment
instructions of Honeywell International Inc.
Service Bulletin KSG 7200–34–09, Revision
0, dated September 24, 2009; or
(ii) Replace ADAHRS unit KSG 7200
Honeywell Part Number (P/N) 065–00188–
5102, Software Version MOD 02/02 (Pilatus
P/N 985.99.12.192) with a new ADAHRS unit
with Honeywell P/N 065–00188–5103
(Pilatus P/N 985.99.12.205) following the
accomplishment instructions of PILATUS
AIRCRAFT LTD. PILATUS PC–12 Service
Bulletin No: 34–022, dated October 5, 2009.
(3) For MSN 545 and 1001 through 1180,
before further flight after the actions required
by paragraph (f)(2) of this AD, remove
PILATUS AIRCRAFT LTD. Temporary
Revision No. 11 to PC–12/47E Pilot’s
Operating Handbook, Report No. 02277,
dated March 18, 2009.
(4) Do not install an ADAHRS unit with
Honeywell P/N 065–00188–5102 (Pilatus
P/N 985.99.12.192) on any affected Model
PC–12/47E airplane, as follows:
(i) For MSN 545 and 1001 through 1180
airplanes, as of 180 days after the effective
date of this AD; and
(ii) For all other MSNs, as of the effective
date of this AD.
FAA AD Differences
Note: 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,
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Federal Register / Vol. 74, No. 236 / Thursday, December 10, 2009 / Proposed Rules
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.
Related Information
(h) Refer to MCAI European Aviation
Safety Agency (EASA) AD No. 2009–0249,
dated November 20, 2009, PILATUS
AIRCRAFT LTD. Temporary Revision No. 11
to PC–12/47E Pilot’s Operating Handbook,
Report No. 02277, dated March 18, 2009;
Honeywell International Inc. Service Bulletin
KSG 7200–34–09, Revision 0, dated
September 24, 2009; and PILATUS
AIRCRAFT LTD. PILATUS PC–12 Service
Bulletin No: 34–022, dated October 5, 2009,
for related information.
Issued in Kansas City, Missouri, on
December 4, 2009.
William Timberlake,
Acting Manager, Small Airplane Directorate,
Aircraft Certification Service.
[FR Doc. E9–29457 Filed 12–9–09; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE 4910–13–P
DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION
Federal Aviation Administration
14 CFR Part 39
[Docket No. FAA–2009–1088; Directorate
Identifier 2008–SW–76–AD]
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RIN 2120–AA64
Airworthiness Directives; Sikorsky
Aircraft Corporation (Sikorsky) Model
S–92A Helicopters
AGENCY: Federal Aviation
Administration, DOT.
ACTION: Notice of proposed rulemaking
(NPRM).
SUMMARY: This document proposes
adopting a new airworthiness directive
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17:17 Dec 09, 2009
Jkt 220001
(AD) for the Sikorsky Model S–92A
helicopters. The AD would require
revising the Rotorcraft Flight Manual
(RFM), Operating Limitations section, to
make it clear to operators that this
model helicopter was not certificated to
the standards that allow for the carriage
of human external cargo. This proposal
is prompted by a mistake in the RFM,
which allows ‘‘Class D’’ rotorcraft load
combinations for human external cargo
load (HEC) operations for this model.
The Model S–92A RFM does not
include the required one-engine
inoperative (OEI) hover performance
and procedures. The actions specified
by the proposed AD are intended to
correct the Limitations section of the
RFM to prevent HEC operations, which
could result in injury or loss of life.
DATES: Comments must be received on
or before February 8, 2010.
ADDRESSES: Use one of the following
addresses to submit comments on this
proposed AD:
• 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.
You may get the service information
identified in this proposed AD from
Sikorsky Aircraft Corporation, Attn:
Manager, Commercial Technical
Support, mailstop s581a, 6900 Main
Street, Stratford, CT, telephone (203)
383–4866, e-mail address
tsslibrary@sikorsky.com, or at https://
www.sikorsky.com.
FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: John
Coffey, Flight Test Engineer, Boston
Aircraft Certification Office, 12 New
England Executive Park, Burlington, MA
01803, telephone (781) 238–7173, fax
(781) 238–7170.
SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION:
Comments Invited
We invite you to submit any written
data, views, or arguments regarding this
proposed AD. Send your comments to
the address listed under the caption
ADDRESSES. Include the docket number
‘‘FAA–2009–1088, Directorate Identifier
2008–SW–76–AD’’ at the beginning of
your comments. We specifically invite
comments on the overall regulatory,
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Fmt 4702
Sfmt 4702
economic, environmental, and energy
aspects of the proposed AD. We will
consider all comments received by the
closing date and may amend the
proposed AD in light 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 with FAA
personnel concerning this proposed
rulemaking. Using the search function
of our docket Web site, you can find and
read the comments to any of our
dockets, including the name of the
individual who sent or signed the
comment. You may review the DOT’s
complete Privacy Act Statement in the
Federal Register published on April 11,
2000.
Examining the Docket
You may examine the docket that
contains the proposed AD, any
comments, and other information in
person at the Docket Operations office
between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m., Monday
through Friday, except Federal holidays.
The Docket Operations office (telephone
(800) 647–5527) is located in Room
W12–140 on the ground floor of the
West Building at the street address
stated in the ADDRESSES section.
Comments will be available in the AD
docket shortly after receipt.
Discussion
This document proposes adopting a
new AD for the Sikorsky Model S–92A
helicopters. The AD would require
revising the RFM SA S92A–RFM–003,
Part 1, Section 1, Operating Limitations,
Types of Operation, by removing the
statement ‘‘RESCUE HOIST: Category
‘A’ only External load operations with
Class ‘D’ external loads.’’ The AD would
require replacing that statement with
‘‘HOIST: Class D external loads
PROHIBITED.’’ Also, the AD would
require revising the RFM by removing
all instances of the terms ‘‘RESCUE
HOIST’’ and replacing them with the
term ‘‘HOIST.’’ This proposal is
prompted by a review of the RFM, in
which a mistake was discovered. The
RFM states that ‘‘Class D’’ external loads
are approved for external load
operations for this model. However, the
Model S–92A does not comply with the
requirements of 14 CFR 29.865(c)(6)
because, for HEC applications requiring
use of Category A rotorcraft, that
rotorcraft must have OEI hover
performance and procedures in the RFM
for the weights, altitudes and
temperatures for which that external
load approval is requested. The Model
E:\FR\FM\10DEP1.SGM
10DEP1
Agencies
[Federal Register Volume 74, Number 236 (Thursday, December 10, 2009)]
[Proposed Rules]
[Pages 65493-65496]
From the Federal Register Online via the Government Printing Office [www.gpo.gov]
[FR Doc No: E9-29457]
-----------------------------------------------------------------------
DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION
Federal Aviation Administration
14 CFR Part 39
[Docket No. FAA-2009-1158; Directorate Identifier 2009-CE-063-AD]
RIN 2120-AA64
Airworthiness Directives; PILATUS AIRCRAFT LTD. Model PC-12/47E
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 that would supersede an existing AD. 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
[[Page 65494]]
aviation product. The MCAI describes the unsafe condition as:
Field reports have indicated that the possibility exists that
both Primary Flight Displays (PFDs) could indicate a roll attitude
offset of up to 10 degrees in the same direction if an accelerated
turn onto the active runway is performed immediately followed by
take-off. In addition, annunciated heading splits have been
reported. This condition has been reported to correct itself after
several minutes.
Additionally, if the aeroplane is operating in geographical
latitudes with low horizontal magnetic field strength, incorrect
heading may be displayed if the ADAHRS switches from GPS track to
magnetometer heading while the aeroplane is on the ground.
This situation, if not corrected, could result in an undesired
bank angle, heading splits and/or incorrect heading, which would
constitute an unsafe condition.
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 January 25,
2010.
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.
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-2009-1158;
Directorate Identifier 2009-CE-063-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://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
On April 8, 2009, we issued AD 2009-08-10, Amendment 39-15883 (74
FR 17384, April 15, 2009). That AD required actions intended to address
an unsafe condition on the products listed above.
Since we issued AD 2009-08-10, an updated air data, attitude, and
heading reference system version with improved software was developed.
The European Aviation Safety Agency (EASA), which is the Technical
Agent for the Member States of the European Community, has issued AD
No.: 2009-0249, dated November 20, 2009 (referred to after this as
``the MCAI''), to correct an unsafe condition for the specified
products. The MCAI states:
Field reports have indicated that the possibility exists that
both Primary Flight Displays (PFDs) could indicate a roll attitude
offset of up to 10 degrees in the same direction if an accelerated
turn onto the active runway is performed immediately followed by
take-off. In addition, annunciated heading splits have been
reported. This condition has been reported to correct itself after
several minutes.
Additionally, if the aeroplane is operating in geographical
latitudes with low horizontal magnetic field strength, incorrect
heading may be displayed if the ADAHRS switches from GPS track to
magnetometer heading while the aeroplane is on the ground.
This situation, if not corrected, could result in an undesired
bank angle, heading splits and/or incorrect heading, which would
constitute an unsafe condition.
As a short-term interim measure, AD 2009-0028-E has been
released in February 2009 to limit at 30[deg] the bank angle during
climb. Afterwards, as a result of the ongoing investigation, the
problem has been temporarily addressed with some limitations in the
take-off procedure. These limitations have been mandated by AD 2009-
0080-E which superseded AD 2009-0028-E.
In order to terminate the operational limitations, an updated
ADAHRS version with improved software was developed.
For the reasons described above this AD supersedes AD 2009-0080-
E and mandates as a terminating action either an update of the
ADAHRS software or the replacement of the ADAHRS unit. From MSN 1181
and subsequent an improved ADAHRS unit was implemented during
production.
You may obtain further information by examining the MCAI in the AD
docket.
Relevant Service Information
PILATUS AIRCRAFT LTD. has issued PILATUS PC-12 Service Bulletin No:
34-022, dated October 5, 2009. Honeywell International Inc. has issued
Service Bulletin KSG 7200-34-09, Revision 0, dated September 24, 2009.
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 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 50 products of U.S.
registry. We also estimate that it would take about 6 work-hours per
product to
[[Page 65495]]
comply with the basic requirements of this proposed AD. The average
labor rate is $80 per work-hour. Required parts would cost about $0 per
product. Where the service information lists required parts costs that
are covered under warranty, we have assumed that there will be no
charge for these costs. As we do not control warranty coverage for
affected parties, some parties may incur costs higher than estimated
here.
Based on these figures, we estimate the cost of the proposed AD on
U.S. operators to be $24,000, or $480 per product.
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 removing Amendment 39-15883 (74 FR
17384, April 15, 2009), and adding the following new AD:
PILATUS AIRCRAFT LTD.: Docket No. FAA-2009-1158; Directorate
Identifier 2009-CE-063-AD.
Comments Due Date
(a) We must receive comments by January 25, 2010.
Affected ADs
(b) This AD supersedes AD 2009-08-10, Amendment 39-15883.
Applicability
(c) This AD applies to Models PC-12/47E airplanes, all
manufacturer serial numbers (MSN), certificated in any category.
Subject
(d) Air Transport Association of America (ATA) Code 34:
Navigation.
Reason
(e) The mandatory continuing airworthiness information (MCAI)
states:
Field reports have indicated that the possibility exists that
both Primary Flight Displays (PFDs) could indicate a roll attitude
offset of up to 10 degrees in the same direction if an accelerated
turn onto the active runway is performed immediately followed by
take-off. In addition, annunciated heading splits have been
reported. This condition has been reported to correct itself after
several minutes.
Additionally, if the aeroplane is operating in geographical
latitudes with low horizontal magnetic field strength, incorrect
heading may be displayed if the ADAHRS switches from GPS track to
magnetometer heading while the aeroplane is on the ground.
This situation, if not corrected, could result in an undesired
bank angle, heading splits and/or incorrect heading, which would
constitute an unsafe condition.
As a short-term interim measure, AD 2009-0028-E has been
released in February 2009 to limit at 30[deg] the bank angle during
climb. Afterwards, as a result of the ongoing investigation, the
problem has been temporarily addressed with some limitations in the
take-off procedure. These limitations have been mandated by AD 2009-
0080-E which superseded AD 2009-0028-E.
In order to terminate the operational limitations, an updated
ADAHRS version with improved software was developed.
For the reasons described above this AD supersedes AD 2009-0080-
E and mandates as a terminating action either an update of the
ADAHRS software or the replacement of the ADAHRS unit.
From MSN 1181 and subsequent an improved ADAHRS unit was
implemented during production.
Actions and Compliance
(f) Unless already done, do the following actions:
(1) For MSN 545 and MSN 1001 through MSN 1180, before further
flight after April 20, 2009 (the effective date of AD 2009-08-10),
incorporate PILATUS AIRCRAFT LTD. Temporary Revision No. 11 to PC-
12/47E Pilot's Operating Handbook (POH), Report No. 02277, dated
March 18, 2009, into the Pilatus PC-12/47E POH. The owner/operator
holding at least a private pilot certificate as authorized by
section 43.7 of the Federal Aviation Regulations 14 CFR 43.7 may do
this action. Make an entry in the aircraft records showing
compliance with this portion of the AD following 14 CFR 43.9.
(2) For MSN 545 and MSN 1001 through MSN 1180, within 180 days
after the effective date of this AD:
(i) Update the air data, attitude, and heading reference system
(ADAHRS) software following the accomplishment instructions of
Honeywell International Inc. Service Bulletin KSG 7200-34-09,
Revision 0, dated September 24, 2009; or
(ii) Replace ADAHRS unit KSG 7200 Honeywell Part Number (P/N)
065-00188-5102, Software Version MOD 02/02 (Pilatus P/N
985.99.12.192) with a new ADAHRS unit with Honeywell P/N 065-00188-
5103 (Pilatus P/N 985.99.12.205) following the accomplishment
instructions of PILATUS AIRCRAFT LTD. PILATUS PC-12 Service Bulletin
No: 34-022, dated October 5, 2009.
(3) For MSN 545 and 1001 through 1180, before further flight
after the actions required by paragraph (f)(2) of this AD, remove
PILATUS AIRCRAFT LTD. Temporary Revision No. 11 to PC-12/47E Pilot's
Operating Handbook, Report No. 02277, dated March 18, 2009.
(4) Do not install an ADAHRS unit with Honeywell P/N 065-00188-
5102 (Pilatus P/N 985.99.12.192) on any affected Model PC-12/47E
airplane, as follows:
(i) For MSN 545 and 1001 through 1180 airplanes, as of 180 days
after the effective date of this AD; and
(ii) For all other MSNs, as of the effective date of this AD.
FAA AD Differences
Note: 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,
[[Page 65496]]
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.
Related Information
(h) Refer to MCAI European Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) AD No.
2009-0249, dated November 20, 2009, PILATUS AIRCRAFT LTD. Temporary
Revision No. 11 to PC-12/47E Pilot's Operating Handbook, Report No.
02277, dated March 18, 2009; Honeywell International Inc. Service
Bulletin KSG 7200-34-09, Revision 0, dated September 24, 2009; and
PILATUS AIRCRAFT LTD. PILATUS PC-12 Service Bulletin No: 34-022,
dated October 5, 2009, for related information.
Issued in Kansas City, Missouri, on December 4, 2009.
William Timberlake,
Acting Manager, Small Airplane Directorate, Aircraft Certification
Service.
[FR Doc. E9-29457 Filed 12-9-09; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE 4910-13-P