Airworthiness Directives; Mitsubishi Heavy Industries, Ltd. Various Models MU-2B Airplanes, 34349-34354 [2010-11034]

Download as PDF Federal Register / Vol. 75, No. 116 / Thursday, June 17, 2010 / Rules and Regulations DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION Federal Aviation Administration 14 CFR Part 39 [Docket No. FAA–2009–1076; Directorate Identifier 2009–CE–019–AD; Amendment 39–16296; AD 2010–10–17] RIN 2120–AA64 Airworthiness Directives; Mitsubishi Heavy Industries, Ltd. Various Models MU–2B Airplanes AGENCY: Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), Department of Transportation (DOT). ACTION: Final rule. wwoods2 on DSK1DXX6B1PROD with RULES_PART 1 Discussion We are adopting a new airworthiness directive (AD) to supersede Airworthiness Directive (AD) 2006–17–01, AD 2006–15–07, AD 2000– 02–25, and AD 97–25–02, which applies to certain Mitsubishi Heavy Industries, Ltd. (MHI) various Models MU–2B airplanes. An FAA MU–2B safety evaluation resulted in the standardization of the MU–2B specific training and the FAA-accepted pilot operating checklists through a special Federal aviation regulation (SFAR). MHI revised the airplane flight manuals (AFMs) to align them with the information in that training and the checklists. In addition, incorporating all AFM revisions up to and including this latest AFM revision will incorporate all AFM compliance actions required by the four above-mentioned ADs. This AD would retain from AD 2006–17–01 the inspection of the engine torque indication system and possible recalibration of the torque pressure transducers and would require incorporating all revisions up to and including the latest revisions of the AFM. We are issuing this AD to correct inconsistencies in critical operating procedures between the MU–2B specific training, the FAA-accepted pilot operating checklists, and the AFMs, which, if not corrected, could result in the pilot inadvertently taking inappropriate actions in critical operating conditions. DATES: This AD becomes effective on July 22, 2010. On July 22, 2010, the Director of the Federal Register approved the incorporation by reference of certain publications listed in this AD. ADDRESSES: For service information identified in this AD, contact Mitsubishi Heavy Industries America, Inc., 4951 Airport Parkway, Suite 800, Addison, Texas 75001; telephone: (972) 934– 5480; fax: (972) 934–5488; Internet: SUMMARY: VerDate Mar<15>2010 14:49 Jun 16, 2010 Jkt 220001 https://www.mu-2aircraft.com or https:// www.turbineair.com. To view the AD docket, go to U.S. Department of Transportation, Docket Operations, M–30, West Building Ground Floor, Room W12–140, 1200 New Jersey Avenue, SE., Washington, DC 20590, or on the Internet at https:// www.regulations.gov. The docket number is FAA–2009–1076; Directorate Identifier 2009–CE–019–AD. FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Al Wilson, Flight Test Pilot, FAA, Fort Worth ACO, 2601 Meacham Blvd., Fort Worth, Texas 76137; telephone: (817) 222–5146; fax: (817) 222–5960. SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: This AD results from inconsistencies in critical operating procedures between the MU–2B specific training, the FAAaccepted pilot operating checklists, and the AFMs. In 2005, the FAA, Aircraft Certification Service and Flight Standards Service, conducted an MU– 2B safety evaluation. The FAA found that MU–2B specific training was not required for all operators and, when provided, was not standardized. The safety evaluation also revealed that many FAA-accepted pilot operating checklists used by operators and trainers at the time of the evaluation had no regulatory basis and were locally produced. This resulted in a lack of standardization for normal, abnormal, and emergency flight operations. In 2008, the FAA issued SFAR No. 108, Mitsubishi MU–2B Series Airplane Special Training, Experience, and Operating Requirements. This SFAR requires standardization for critical operating procedures in training and in the FAA-accepted pilot operating checklists. MHI revised the AFMs to align them with the information in the current SFAR. The FAA requested Mitsubishi Heavy Industries, Ltd. make changes to the AFM for each model approved under Type Certificate Data Sheets (TCDS) A10SW and A2PC. Incorporating all AFM revisions up to and including this latest AFM revision will incorporate the AFM actions in other ADs, as follows: • AD 97–25–02, Amendment 39– 10225 (62 FR 63830, December 3, 1997), requires revising the Limitations section of the airplane AFM to prohibit positioning the power levers below the flight idle stop while the airplane is in flight. • AD 2000–02–25, Amendment 39– 11543 (65 FR 5422, February 4, 2000), requires revising the AFM to include requirements for activating the airframe pneumatic deicing boots. PO 00000 Frm 00031 Fmt 4700 Sfmt 4700 34349 • AD 2006–15–07, Amendment 39– 14687 (71 FR 41116, July 20, 2006), requires revising the Limitations section of the AFM to prevent improper rigging of the propeller feathering linkage. • AD 2006–17–01, Amendment 39– 14722 (71 FR 47697, August 18, 2006), requires inspecting the engine torque indication system, recalibrating the torque pressure transducers as required, and revising the Limitations section of the AFM to include power assurance charts. The one-time inspection and possible recalibration are not part of the AFM revisions. We are issuing this AD to correct inconsistencies in critical operating procedures between the MU–2B specific training, the FAA-accepted pilot operating checklists, and the AFMs, which, if not corrected, could result in the pilot inadvertently taking inappropriate actions in critical operating conditions. Comments We provided the public the opportunity to participate in developing this AD. The following presents the comments received on the proposal and FAA’s response to each comment: Comment Issue No. 1: This Failure Could Lead to Loss of Control Ralph M. Sorrells, Mitsubishi Heavy Industries America, Inc., Patrick E. Cannon, Turbine Aircraft Services, Inc., and Earle P. Martin III, Mid-Coast Air Charter, Inc., comment on the Summary, Discussion, and Unsafe Condition sections of the proposed AD. The commenters oppose the wording used in the notice of proposed rulemaking (NPRM) that says the unsafe condition, if left uncorrected, could result in loss of control. Two of the commenters suggest this is an ‘‘administrative’’ AD and we should not use ‘‘loss of control’’ as a justification. One commenter suggests changing the justification to ‘‘improve safety’’ in lieu of ‘‘loss of control.’’ We agree with the commenters that the wording ‘‘loss of control’’ used throughout the NPRM does not accurately reflect the justification for this AD. We are changing the wording to the following in the Summary, Discussion, and Unsafe Condition sections of the NPRM: ‘‘We are issuing this AD to correct inconsistencies in critical operating procedures between the MU–2B specific training, the FAAaccepted pilot operating checklists, and the AFMs, which, if not corrected, could result in the pilot inadvertently taking inappropriate actions in critical operating conditions.’’ E:\FR\FM\17JNR1.SGM 17JNR1 34350 Federal Register / Vol. 75, No. 116 / Thursday, June 17, 2010 / Rules and Regulations Comment Issue No. 2: Special Federal Aviation Regulation (SFAR)–108 Ralph M. Sorrells, Mitsubishi Heavy Industries America, Inc., states the current SFAR–108 mandates standardized training, the latest revision of the AFM, and the use of standardized checklists. The SFAR requirements have eliminated the ‘‘inconsistencies’’ as stated in the NPRM; and the SFAR standardized FAA-accepted checklists, eliminating the inconsistencies in the checklists; therefore, no unsafe condition exists. We infer from this comment the commenter feels this AD action is unnecessary. The FAA partially agrees with these comments. We agree with the commenter that the SFAR–108 is the current regulatory standard to follow, when inconsistencies exist between the SFAR requirements and the approved AFM. However, we disagree with the commenter that the inconsistencies have been eliminated. The SFAR mandated the appropriate AFM for each model; however, it did not specify an AFM revision level. Owners could currently be using a version of the AFM that is not consistent with the FAAaccepted checklists required by the SFAR. The intent of this NPRM is to mandate the latest AFM revision level. To clarify the intent of the wording ‘‘FAA-accepted checklists’’ used in the NPRM, we are changing the first paragraph of the Discussion section to read: ‘‘* * * the safety evaluation also revealed that many FAA-accepted pilot operating checklists used by operators and trainers at the time of the evaluation had no regulatory basis * * *’’ wwoods2 on DSK1DXX6B1PROD with RULES_PART 1 Comment Issue No. 3: Current Applicable Service Bulletin for the Compliance Section, Paragraph 2(e)(1) Ralph M. Sorrells, Mitsubishi Heavy Industries America, Inc., states that the NPRM does not reference the latest revision to the service bulletin in the Compliance section, paragraph 2(e)(1). He suggests revising the Compliance section, paragraph 2(e)(1), to reference MHI MU–2 Service Bulletin No. 233B, dated March 8, 2007, as the applicable service bulletin for TCDS A2PC model airplanes. The FAA partially agrees with this comment. We agree that inspecting the engine torque indication system and recalibrating the torque pressure transducers following MHI MU–2 Service Bulletin No. 233B, dated March 8, 2007, will comply with the requirements of the AD. However, we disagree with requiring the actions following MHI MU–2 Service Bulletin No. 233B, dated March 8, 2007. The VerDate Mar<15>2010 14:49 Jun 16, 2010 Jkt 220001 actions to inspect the engine torque indication system and recalibrate the torque pressure transducers are retained from AD 2006–17–01, issued in 2006, and doing the actions following MHI MU–2 Service Bulletin No. 233A, dated January 14, 1999, still complies with the intent of AD 2006–17–01. We will retain inspecting the engine torque indication system and recalibrating the torque pressure transducers following MHI MU–2 Service Bulletin No. 233A, dated January 14, 1999, but add language allowing the use of MHI MU–2 Service Bulletin No. 233B, dated March 8, 2007, to comply with the requirements of this final rule AD action. Comment Issue No. 4: Reformat Table No. 1 Ralph M. Sorrells, Mitsubishi Heavy Industries America, Inc., comments that Table 1 of the NPRM in the Compliance section of the NPRM should be revised to clarify which TCDS applies to each model. The commenter also suggests we change Table 1 of the NPRM to show the correct revision level for the Model MU–2B–35 (A2PC), which is revision 10 versus revision 9. Certain model airplanes (–25, –26, and –35) were type certificated under both the A2PC and A10SW type certificates and have separate AFMs. The commenter states Table 1 of the NPRM appears confusing as to which AFM applies to the models approved under both TCDS A2PC and A10SW. Table 1 of the NPRM does not reference the reissued AFM date that applies for TCDS A2PC models. The AFM for TCDS A10SW models are not affected since the power assurance charts were included in the reissued AFM and have not been revised. The FAA agrees with the commenter and will revise Table 3 of the final rule AD action to clarify the appropriate TCDS and identify the correct AFM, revision level, and effective pages for the power assurance charts for all models. Comment Issue No. 5: Reformat Table No. 2 Ralph M. Sorrells, Mitsubishi Heavy Industries America, Inc., comments on the need to clarify the appropriate action to obtain the AFM information for Models MU–2B–35 and MU–2B–36 type certificated under TCDS A10SW. The commenter suggests referencing ‘‘MU–2B–35 Airplane Flight Manual J Model, Document Number MR–0158–1’’ as the approved data for Model MU–2B– 35. The commenter also states there has never been an A10SW version of the MU–2B–36 so this item should be removed. The commenter recommends PO 00000 Frm 00032 Fmt 4700 Sfmt 4700 changing the language for the Note associated with Table 2 in the NPRM to state, ‘‘AFM revisions are not available for Model MU–2B–35 under TCDS A10SW because the only Model MU– 2B–35 airplane is no longer in service and was subsequently removed from the registry. Mitsubishi Heavy Industries, Ltd. has indicated they have no intention of putting the MU–2B–35 model back in production. There are no other serial numbers eligible for this model, foreign or domestic. This model is still eligible under the type certificate, so if Mitsubishi Heavy Industries, Ltd., does put this model back in production, contact them for an FAA-approved AFM.’’ The FAA partially agrees with the commenter. We agree that the A10SW TCDS has been revised to show no serial numbers for –35 and –36 models. However, since the models are still part of the type certificate, we disagree with removing those models from the AD. As such, we are retaining Models –35 and –36 in the Applicability section of this AD. Since no serial numbers for these model airplanes currently exist, it would be impossible to comply with the actions of this AD for those airplane models. We are removing NOTE 2 and NOTE 3 and removing Models –35 and –36 from TABLE 4 of this final rule AD action. Comment Issue No. 6: Suggest the Wording ‘‘Current AFM Revision’’ Patrick E. Cannon, Turbine Aircraft Services, Inc., suggests that to avoid revising the AD to mandate each subsequent AFM revision, the NPRM use the term ‘‘current AFM revision’’ to mandate incorporating subsequent revisions to the AFMs. The FAA does not agree. We do not have the legal authority to reference documents that do not currently exist for the purpose of addressing an unsafe condition through AD action. The FAA will consider approval of future revisions through additional rulemaking should the need arise or may consider allowing their use of future revisions through approval of an alternative method of compliance (AMOC) if the substantiating data supports the revised AFM. Conclusion We have carefully reviewed the available data and determined that air safety and the public interest require adopting the AD as proposed except for the changes previously discussed and minor editorial corrections. We have determined that these minor corrections: E:\FR\FM\17JNR1.SGM 17JNR1 Federal Register / Vol. 75, No. 116 / Thursday, June 17, 2010 / Rules and Regulations • Are consistent with the intent that was proposed in the NPRM for correcting the unsafe condition; and • Do not add any additional burden upon the public than was already proposed in the NPRM. Costs of Compliance We estimate that this AD affects 355 airplanes. We estimate the following costs to accomplish the engine torque indication 34351 system inspection, including the recalibration and ground check if needed. This is a retained cost from AD 2006– 17–01: Labor cost Parts cost Total cost per airplane Total cost on U.S. operators 5 work-hours × $85 = $425 ....................................................................... Not applicable .................................. $425 $150,875 Labor cost Parts cost Total cost per airplane Total cost on U.S. operators 1 work-hour × $85 per hour = $85 ............................................................ Not applicable .................................. $85 $30,175 We estimate the following costs to do the AFM revisions: 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 AD. Regulatory Findings wwoods2 on DSK1DXX6B1PROD with RULES_PART 1 We have 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: VerDate Mar<15>2010 14:49 Jun 16, 2010 Jkt 220001 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 summary of the costs to comply with this AD (and other information as included in the Regulatory Evaluation) and placed it in the AD Docket. You may get a copy of this summary by sending a request to us at the address listed under ADDRESSES. Include ‘‘Docket No. FAA–2009–1076; Directorate Identifier 2009–CE–019–AD’’ in your request. 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 Federal Aviation Administration amends part 39 of the Federal Aviation Regulations (14 CFR part 39) as follows: ■ PART 39—AIRWORTHINESS DIRECTIVES Authority: 49 U.S.C. 106(g), 40113, 44701. § 39.13 [Amended] 2. The FAA amends § 39.13 by removing Airworthiness Directive (AD) 97–25–02, Amendment 39–10225 (62 FR 63830, December 3, 1997); AD 2000– 02–25, Amendment 39–11543 (65 FR 5422, February 4, 2000); AD 2006–15– 07, Amendment 39–14687 (71 FR 41116, July 20, 2006); and AD 2006–17– 01, Amendment 39–14722 (71 FR 47697, August 18, 2006), and adding the following new AD: ■ 2010–10–17 Mitsubishi Heavy Industries, Ltd.: Amendment 39–16296; Docket No. FAA–2009–1076; Directorate Identifier 2009–CE–019–AD. Effective Date (a) This AD becomes effective on July 22, 2010. Affected ADs (b) This AD supersedes AD 97–25–02, Amendment 39–10225; AD 2000–02–25, Amendment 39–11543; AD 2006–15–07, Amendment 39–14687; and AD 2006–17–01, Amendment 39–14722. Applicability (c) This AD applies to the following airplane models and serial numbers that are certificated in any category: 1. The authority citation for part 39 continues to read as follows: ■ PO 00000 Frm 00033 Fmt 4700 Sfmt 4700 E:\FR\FM\17JNR1.SGM 17JNR1 34352 Federal Register / Vol. 75, No. 116 / Thursday, June 17, 2010 / Rules and Regulations TABLE 1—MITSUBISHI HEAVY INDUSTRIES, LTD., (MHI) AIRPLANES LISTED IN TYPE CERTIFICATE DATA SHEET (TCDS) A10SW Models Serial Nos. MU–2B–25, MU–2B–26, MU–2B–26A, MU–2B–36A, MU–2B–40, and MU–2B–60. MU–2B–35 and MU–2B–36 ..................................................................... All serial numbers. There are no serial numbers for MU–2B–35 or MU–2B–36 under TCDS A10SW. TABLE 2—MHI AIRPLANES LISTED IN TCDS A2PC Models Serial Nos. MU–2B, MU–2B–10, MU–2B–15, MU–2B–20, MU–2B–25, MU–2B–26, MU–2B–30, MU–2B–35, MU–2B–36 ................... Unsafe Condition (d) This AD results from inconsistencies in critical operating procedures between the MU–2B specific training, the FAA-accepted pilot operating checklists, and the airplane flight manuals (AFM). MHI revised the AFMs to align them with the information in that training and the checklists. We are issuing this AD to correct inconsistencies in critical operating procedures between the MU–2B specific training, the FAA-accepted pilot operating checklists, and the AFMs, which, if not corrected, could result in pilots inadvertently taking inappropriate actions in critical operating conditions. Compliance (e) Do the following unless already done: (1) Within 100 hours time-in-service (TIS) after September 22, 2006 (the effective date retained from AD 2006–17–01), inspect the engine torque indication system and, before further flight after the inspection, recalibrate the torque pressure transducers as required. For airplanes listed in TCDS A2PC, follow MHI MU–2 Service Bulletin No. 233A, dated January 14, 1999 or MHI MU–2 Service Bulletin No. 233B, dated March 8, 2007. For All serial numbers. airplanes listed in TCDS A10SW, follow MHI MU–2 Service Bulletin No. 095/77–002, dated July 15, 1998. This inspection requires the use of the following power assurance charts as applicable: (i) If you have not incorporated the AFM revisions required in paragraph (e)(2) of this AD: Use the power assurance charts referenced in Table 3 below; or (ii) If you have already incorporated the AFM revisions required in paragraph (e)(2) of this AD: Use the power assurance charts in section 6 of the revised AFMs required by paragraph (e)(2) of this AD. TABLE 3—POWER ASSURANCE CHART FROM AD 2006–17–01 TCDS Airplane model affected A2PC ................ MU–2B ............. MU–2B–10 ........ MU–2B–15 ........ MU–2B–20 ........ MU–2B–25 ........ MU–2B–26 ........ MU–2B–30 ........ MU–2B–35 ........ MU–2B–36 ........ MU–2B–25 ........ MU–2B–26 ........ MU–2B–26A ..... MU–2B–36A ..... MU–2B–40 ........ MU–2B–60 ........ A10SW .............. Page No. from AFM Date and version of AFM AFM, AFM, AFM, AFM, AFM, AFM, AFM, AFM, AFM, AFM, AFM, AFM, AFM, AFM, AFM, Section Section Section Section Section Section Section Section Section Section Section Section Section Section Section (2) Within the next 50 hours TIS after July 22, 2010 (the effective date of this AD) or within the next 6 months after July 22, 2010 (the effective date of this AD), whichever occurs first, incorporate all revisions up to 6, 6, 6, 6, 6, 6, 6, 6, 6, 6, 6, 6, 6, 6, 6, Reissued Reissued Reissued Reissued Reissued Reissued Reissued Reissued Reissued Reissued Reissued Reissued Reissued Reissued Reissued March 5, 1987, Revision 9, dated January 14, 1999 ............. March 5, 1987, Revision 9, dated January 14, 1999 ............. March 5, 1987, Revision 9, dated January 14, 1999 ............. March 3, 1987, Revision 9, dated January 14, 1999 ............. March 3, 1987, Revision 9, dated January 14, 1999 ............. March 3, 1987, Revision 9, dated January 14, 1999 ............. February 19, 1987, Revision 10, dated January 14, 1999 ..... February 19, 1987, Revision 10, dated January 14, 1999 ..... February 19, 1987, Revision 9, dated January 14, 1999 ....... March 25, 1986 ....................................................................... March 25, 1986 ....................................................................... March 25, 1986 ....................................................................... February 28, 1986 ................................................................... March 25, 1986 ....................................................................... September 24, 1986 ............................................................... and including the latest revisions as published in the list of effective pages of the applicable AFM listed in Table 4 and Table 5 of this AD. Assure that the applicable AFM contains each page, matching all the page 6–34. 6–19. 6–19. 6–20. 6–19. 6–19. 6–19. 6–19. 6–20. 6–18 and 6–17 and 6–17 and 6–20 and 6–17 and 6–19 and 6–19. 6–18. 6–18. 6–21. 6–18. 6–20. numbers and page dates, listed in the Effective Pages listing for that AFM. The airplane identification data plate identifies the type certificate number for that airplane: wwoods2 on DSK1DXX6B1PROD with RULES_PART 1 TABLE 4—TCDS A10SW Airplane model AFM name MU–2B–25 ......... MU–2B–25 Airplane Flight Manual K Model, Document Number MR–0156–1. MU–2B–26 ......... MU–2B–26 Airplane Flight Manual M Model, Document Number MR–0160–1. VerDate Mar<15>2010 14:49 Jun 16, 2010 Jkt 220001 PO 00000 Frm 00034 Effective pages list Fmt 4700 Sfmt 4700 all revised pages up to and including March 10, 2009, as listed on page 1 ‘‘Effective Pages’’ in the AFM. all revised pages up to and including March 10, 2009, as listed on page 1 ‘‘Effective Pages’’ in the AFM. E:\FR\FM\17JNR1.SGM 17JNR1 revision 11, dated and page 2 of the revision 11, dated and page 2 of the Federal Register / Vol. 75, No. 116 / Thursday, June 17, 2010 / Rules and Regulations 34353 TABLE 4—TCDS A10SW—Continued Airplane model AFM name Effective pages list MU–2B–26A ....... MU–2B–26A Airplane Flight Manual P Model, Document Number MR–0194–1. MU–2B–36A ....... MU–2B–36A Airplane Flight Manual N Model, Document Number MR–0196–1. MU–2B–40 ......... MU–2B–40 Airplane Flight Manual SOLITAIRE Model, Document Number MR–0271–1. MU–2B–60 ......... MU–2B–60 Airplane Flight Manual MARQUISE Model, Document Number MR–0273–1. all revised pages up to and including March 10, 2009, as listed on page 1 ‘‘Effective Pages’’ in the AFM. all revised pages up to and including March 10, 2009, as listed on page 1 ‘‘Effective Pages’’ in the AFM. all revised pages up to and including March 10, 2009, as listed on page 1 ‘‘Effective Pages’’ in the AFM. all revised pages up to and including March 10, 2009, as listed on page 1 ‘‘Effective Pages’’ in the AFM. revision 13, dated and page 2 of the revision 15, dated and page 2 of the revision 13, dated and page 2 of the revision 15, dated and page 2 of the TABLE 5—TCDS A2PC Airplane model AFM name MU–2B ............... MU–2B Airplane Flight Manual, YET 67026A ......................... MU–2B–10 ......... MU–2B–10 Airplane Flight Manual, YET 86400 ...................... MU–2B–15 ......... MU–2B–15 Airplane Flight Manual, YET 68038A ................... MU–2B–20 ......... MU–2B–20 Airplane Flight Manual, YET 68034A ................... MU–2B–25 ......... MU–2B–25 Airplane Flight Manual, YET 71367A ................... MU–2B–26 ......... MU–2B–26 Airplane Flight Manual, YET 74129A ................... MU–2B–30 ......... MU–2B–30 Airplane Flight Manual, YET 69013A ................... MU–2B–35 ......... MU–2B–35 Airplane Flight Manual, YET 70186A ................... MU–2B–36 ......... MU–2B–36 Airplane Flight Manual, YET 74122A ................... wwoods2 on DSK1DXX6B1PROD with RULES_PART 1 Alternative Methods of Compliance (AMOCs) (f) The Manager, FAA, Fort Worth Airplane Certification Office (ACO), has the authority to approve AMOCs for this AD, if requested using the procedures found in 14 CFR 39.19. Send information to ATTN: Al Wilson, Flight Test Pilot, FAA, Fort Worth ACO, 2601 Meacham Blvd., Fort Worth, Texas 76137; telephone: (817) 222–5146; fax: (817) 222– 5960. 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. Material Incorporated by Reference (g) You must use Mitsubishi Heavy Industries, Ltd. MU–2 Service Bulletin No. 233A, dated January 14, 1999; Mitsubishi Heavy Industries, Ltd. MU–2 Service Bulletin No. 095/77–002, dated July 15, 1998; VerDate Mar<15>2010 14:49 Jun 16, 2010 Jkt 220001 Effective pages list all revised pages up to and including revision vember 29, 2007, as listed on page 1 and ‘‘Effective Pages’’ in the AFM. all revised pages up to and including revision vember 29, 2007, as listed on page 1 and ‘‘Effective Pages’’ in the AFM. all revised pages up to and including revision vember 29, 2007, as listed on page 1 and ‘‘Effective Pages’’ in the AFM. all revised pages up to and including revision vember 29, 2007, as listed on page 1 and ‘‘Effective Pages’’ in the AFM. all revised pages up to and including revision vember 29, 2007, as listed on page 1 and ‘‘Effective Pages’’ in the AFM. all revised pages up to and including revision vember 29, 2007, as listed on page 1 and ‘‘Effective Pages’’ in the AFM. all revised pages up to and including revision vember 29, 2007, as listed on page 1 and ‘‘Effective Pages’’ in the AFM. all revised pages up to and including revision vember 29, 2007, as listed on page 1 and ‘‘Effective Pages’’ in the AFM. all revised pages up to and including revision vember 29, 2007, as listed on page 1 and ‘‘Effective Pages’’ in the AFM. Mitsubishi Heavy Industries, Ltd. MU–2 Service Bulletin No. 233B, dated March 8, 2007; and the AFMs specified in Table 6 of this AD to do the actions required by this AD, unless the AD specifies otherwise. The AFMs and Pilot’s Operating Manuals (POMs) are bound together in one book for each airplane model; however, only the AFMs are required to comply with this AD. The POMs are not approved data and are not incorporated by reference; the POMs are not required to comply with this AD. (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) On September 22, 2006 (71 FR 47699, August 18, 2006) the Director of the Federal Register approved the incorporation by reference of Mitsubishi Heavy Industries, Ltd. MU–2 Service Bulletin No. 095/77–002, dated July 15, 1998; and Mitsubishi Heavy Industries, Ltd. MU–2 Service Bulletin No. 233A, dated January 14, 1999. PO 00000 Frm 00035 Fmt 4700 Sfmt 4700 13, dated Nopage 2 of the 13, dated Nopage 2 of the 13, dated Nopage 2 of the 13, dated Nopage 2 of the 13, dated Nopage 2 of the 13, dated Nopage 2 of the 14, dated Nopage 2 of the 14, dated Nopage 2 of the 13, dated Nopage 2 of the (3) For service information identified in this AD, contact Mitsubishi Heavy Industries America, Inc., 4951 Airport Parkway, Suite 800, Addison, Texas 75001; telephone: (972) 934–5480; fax: (972) 934–5488; Internet: https://www.mu-2aircraft.com or https:// www.turbineair.com. (4) You may review copies of the service information incorporated by reference for this AD at the FAA, Central Region, Office of the Regional Counsel, 901 Locust, Kansas City, Missouri 64106. For information on the availability of this material at the Central Region, call (816) 329–3768. (5) You may also review copies of the service information incorporated by reference for this AD 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. E:\FR\FM\17JNR1.SGM 17JNR1 34354 Federal Register / Vol. 75, No. 116 / Thursday, June 17, 2010 / Rules and Regulations TABLE 6—MATERIAL INCORPORATED BY REFERENCE AFM/POM name AFM effective pages list MU–2B–25 Airplane Flight Manual K Model, Document Number MR– 0156–1, MU–2B–25; MU–2B–25 Pilot’s Operating Manual, Document Number MR–0157–1, revised July 15, 2004. MU–2B–26 Airplane Flight Manual M Model, Document Number MR– 0160–1; MU–2B–26 Pilot’s Operating Manual, Document Number MR–0161–1, revised July 15, 2004. MU–2B–26A Airplane Flight Manual P Model, Document Number MR– 0194–1; MU–2B–26A Pilot’s Operating Manual, Document Number MR–0195–1, revised July 15, 2004. MU–2B–36A Airplane Flight Manual N Model, Document Number MR– 0196–1; MU–2B–36A Pilot’s Operating Manual, Document Number MR–0197–1, revised July 15, 2004. MU–2B–40 Airplane Flight Manual SOLITAIRE Model, Document Number MR–0271–1; MU–2B–40 Pilot’s Operating Manual, Document Number MR–0335–1, revised July 15, 2004. MU–2B–60 Airplane Flight Manual MARQUISE Model, Document Number MR–0273–1; MU–2B–60 Pilot’s Operating Manual, Document Number MR–0338–1, revised July 15, 2004. MU–2B Airplane Flight Manual, YET 67026A; MU–2B Pilot’s Operating Manual, Document Number YET 67025A, revised September 10, 1997. MU–2B–10 Airplane Flight Manual, YET 86400; MU–2B–10 Pilot’s Operating Manual, Document Number YET 87236, revised September 10, 1997. MU–2B–15 Airplane Flight Manual, YET 68038A; MU–2B–15 Pilot’s Operating Manual, Document Number YET 87237, revised September 10, 1997. MU–2B–20 Airplane Flight Manual, YET 68034A; MU–2B–20 Pilot’s Operating Manual, Document Number YET 68134A, revised February 20, 1998. MU–2B–25 Airplane Flight Manual, YET 71367A; MU–2B–25 Pilot’s Operating Manual, Document Number YET 72067A, revised September 10, 1997. MU–2B–26 Airplane Flight Manual, YET 74129A; MU–2B–26 Pilot’s Operating Manual, Document Number YET 74130A, revised September 10, 1997. MU–2B–30 Airplane Flight Manual, YET 69013A; MU–2B–30 Pilot’s Operating Manual, Document Number YET 69224A, revised September 10, 1997. MU–2B–35 Airplane Flight Manual, YET 70186A; MU–2B–10 Pilot’s Operating Manual, Document Number YET 70187A, revised September 10, 1997. MU–2B–36 Airplane Flight Manual, YET 74122A; MU–2B–36 Pilot’s Operating Manual, Document Number YET 74123A, revised September 10, 1997. all revised pages up to and including revision 11, dated March 2009, as listed on page 1 and page 2 of the ‘‘Effective Pages’’ in AFM. all revised pages up to and including revision 11, dated March 2009, as listed on page 1 and page 2 of the ‘‘Effective Pages’’ in AFM. all revised pages up to and including revision 13, dated March 2009, as listed on page 1 and page 2 of the ‘‘Effective Pages’’ in AFM. all revised pages up to and including revision 15, dated March 2009, as listed on page 1 and page 2 of the ‘‘Effective Pages’’ in AFM. all revised pages up to and including revision 13, dated March 2009, as listed on page 1 and page 2 of the ‘‘Effective Pages’’ in AFM. all revised pages up to and including revision 15, dated March 2009, as listed on page 1 and page 2 of the ‘‘Effective Pages’’ in AFM. all revised pages up to and including revision 13, dated November 2007, as listed on page 1 and page 2 of the ‘‘Effective Pages’’ in AFM. all revised pages up to and including revision 13, dated November 2007, as listed on page 1 and page 2 of the ‘‘Effective Pages’’ in AFM. all revised pages up to and including revision 13, dated November 2007, as listed on page 1 and page 2 of the ‘‘Effective Pages’’ in AFM. all revised pages up to and including revision 13, dated November 2007, as listed on page 1 and page 2 of the ‘‘Effective Pages’’ in AFM. all revised pages up to and including revision 13, dated November 2007, as listed on page 1 and page 2 of the ‘‘Effective Pages’’ in AFM. all revised pages up to and including revision 13, dated November 2007, as listed on page 1 and page 2 of the ‘‘Effective Pages’’ in AFM. all revised pages up to and including revision 14, dated November 2007, as listed on page 1 and page 2 of the ‘‘Effective Pages’’ in AFM. all revised pages up to and including revision 14, dated November 2007, as listed on page 1 and page 2 of the ‘‘Effective Pages’’ in AFM. all revised pages up to and including revision 13, dated November 2007, as listed on page 1 and page 2 of the ‘‘Effective Pages’’ in AFM. Issued in Kansas City, Missouri on May 4, 2010. Wes Ryan, Acting Manager, Small Airplane Directorate, Aircraft Certification Service. DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION [FR Doc. 2010–11034 Filed 6–16–10; 8:45 am] [Docket No. FAA–2010–0327; Directorate Identifier 2010–CE–012–AD; Amendment 39–16321; AD 2010–12–01] BILLING CODE 4910–13–P Federal Aviation Administration 14 CFR Part 39 wwoods2 on DSK1DXX6B1PROD with RULES_PART 1 RIN 2120–AA64 Airworthiness Directives; Cessna Aircraft Company Model 525A Airplanes AGENCY: Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), Department of Transportation (DOT). ACTION: Final rule. SUMMARY: We are adopting a new airworthiness directive (AD) to supersede AD 2009–24–13, which VerDate Mar<15>2010 14:49 Jun 16, 2010 Jkt 220001 PO 00000 Frm 00036 Fmt 4700 Sfmt 4700 10, the 10, the 10, the 10, the 10, the 10, the 29, the 29, the 29, the 29, the 29, the 29, the 29, the 29, the 29, the applies to certain Cessna Aircraft Company (Cessna) Model 525A airplanes. AD 2009–24–13 currently requires you to repetitively inspect the thrust attenuator paddle assemblies for loose and damaged fasteners and for cracks. AD 2009–24–13 also requires you to replace loose or damaged fasteners and replace cracked thrust attenuator paddles found during any inspection. Since we issued AD 2009– 24–13, Cessna has developed new design thrust attenuator paddles and universal head rivets as terminating action for the repetitive inspections. Consequently, this AD would retain the requirements of AD 2009–24–13 until replacement of both thrust attenuator paddles and the eight countersunk fasteners with new design thrust attenuator paddles and universal head E:\FR\FM\17JNR1.SGM 17JNR1

Agencies

[Federal Register Volume 75, Number 116 (Thursday, June 17, 2010)]
[Rules and Regulations]
[Pages 34349-34354]
From the Federal Register Online via the Government Printing Office [www.gpo.gov]
[FR Doc No: 2010-11034]

[[Page 34349]]

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

DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION

Federal Aviation Administration

14 CFR Part 39

[Docket No. FAA-2009-1076; Directorate Identifier 2009-CE-019-AD;
Amendment 39-16296; AD 2010-10-17]
RIN 2120-AA64

Airworthiness Directives; Mitsubishi Heavy Industries, Ltd.
Various Models MU-2B Airplanes

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

ACTION: Final rule.

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

SUMMARY: We are adopting a new airworthiness directive (AD) to
supersede Airworthiness Directive (AD) 2006-17-01, AD 2006-15-07, AD
2000-02-25, and AD 97-25-02, which applies to certain Mitsubishi Heavy
Industries, Ltd. (MHI) various Models MU-2B airplanes. An FAA MU-2B
safety evaluation resulted in the standardization of the MU-2B specific
training and the FAA-accepted pilot operating checklists through a
special Federal aviation regulation (SFAR). MHI revised the airplane
flight manuals (AFMs) to align them with the information in that
training and the checklists. In addition, incorporating all AFM
revisions up to and including this latest AFM revision will incorporate
all AFM compliance actions required by the four above-mentioned ADs.
This AD would retain from AD 2006-17-01 the inspection of the engine
torque indication system and possible recalibration of the torque
pressure transducers and would require incorporating all revisions up
to and including the latest revisions of the AFM. We are issuing this
AD to correct inconsistencies in critical operating procedures between
the MU-2B specific training, the FAA-accepted pilot operating
checklists, and the AFMs, which, if not corrected, could result in the
pilot inadvertently taking inappropriate actions in critical operating
conditions.

DATES: This AD becomes effective on July 22, 2010.
On July 22, 2010, the Director of the Federal Register approved the
incorporation by reference of certain publications listed in this AD.

ADDRESSES: For service information identified in this AD, contact
Mitsubishi Heavy Industries America, Inc., 4951 Airport Parkway, Suite
800, Addison, Texas 75001; telephone: (972) 934-5480; fax: (972) 934-
5488; Internet: https://www.mu-2aircraft.com or https://www.turbineair.com.
To view the AD docket, go to U.S. Department of Transportation,
Docket Operations, M-30, West Building Ground Floor, Room W12-140, 1200
New Jersey Avenue, SE., Washington, DC 20590, or on the Internet at
https://www.regulations.gov. The docket number is FAA-2009-1076;
Directorate Identifier 2009-CE-019-AD.

FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Al Wilson, Flight Test Pilot, FAA,
Fort Worth ACO, 2601 Meacham Blvd., Fort Worth, Texas 76137; telephone:
(817) 222-5146; fax: (817) 222-5960.

SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION:

Discussion

This AD results from inconsistencies in critical operating
procedures between the MU-2B specific training, the FAA-accepted pilot
operating checklists, and the AFMs. In 2005, the FAA, Aircraft
Certification Service and Flight Standards Service, conducted an MU-2B
safety evaluation. The FAA found that MU-2B specific training was not
required for all operators and, when provided, was not standardized.
The safety evaluation also revealed that many FAA-accepted pilot
operating checklists used by operators and trainers at the time of the
evaluation had no regulatory basis and were locally produced. This
resulted in a lack of standardization for normal, abnormal, and
emergency flight operations.
In 2008, the FAA issued SFAR No. 108, Mitsubishi MU-2B Series
Airplane Special Training, Experience, and Operating Requirements. This
SFAR requires standardization for critical operating procedures in
training and in the FAA-accepted pilot operating checklists. MHI
revised the AFMs to align them with the information in the current
SFAR. The FAA requested Mitsubishi Heavy Industries, Ltd. make changes
to the AFM for each model approved under Type Certificate Data Sheets
(TCDS) A10SW and A2PC.
Incorporating all AFM revisions up to and including this latest AFM
revision will incorporate the AFM actions in other ADs, as follows:
AD 97-25-02, Amendment 39-10225 (62 FR 63830, December 3,
1997), requires revising the Limitations section of the airplane AFM to
prohibit positioning the power levers below the flight idle stop while
the airplane is in flight.
AD 2000-02-25, Amendment 39-11543 (65 FR 5422, February 4,
2000), requires revising the AFM to include requirements for activating
the airframe pneumatic deicing boots.
AD 2006-15-07, Amendment 39-14687 (71 FR 41116, July 20,
2006), requires revising the Limitations section of the AFM to prevent
improper rigging of the propeller feathering linkage.
AD 2006-17-01, Amendment 39-14722 (71 FR 47697, August 18,
2006), requires inspecting the engine torque indication system,
recalibrating the torque pressure transducers as required, and revising
the Limitations section of the AFM to include power assurance charts.
The one-time inspection and possible recalibration are not part of the
AFM revisions.
We are issuing this AD to correct inconsistencies in critical
operating procedures between the MU-2B specific training, the FAA-
accepted pilot operating checklists, and the AFMs, which, if not
corrected, could result in the pilot inadvertently taking inappropriate
actions in critical operating conditions.

Comments

We provided the public the opportunity to participate in developing
this AD. The following presents the comments received on the proposal
and FAA's response to each comment:

Comment Issue No. 1: This Failure Could Lead to Loss of Control

Ralph M. Sorrells, Mitsubishi Heavy Industries America, Inc.,
Patrick E. Cannon, Turbine Aircraft Services, Inc., and Earle P. Martin
III, Mid-Coast Air Charter, Inc., comment on the Summary, Discussion,
and Unsafe Condition sections of the proposed AD. The commenters oppose
the wording used in the notice of proposed rulemaking (NPRM) that says
the unsafe condition, if left uncorrected, could result in loss of
control. Two of the commenters suggest this is an ``administrative'' AD
and we should not use ``loss of control'' as a justification. One
commenter suggests changing the justification to ``improve safety'' in
lieu of ``loss of control.''
We agree with the commenters that the wording ``loss of control''
used throughout the NPRM does not accurately reflect the justification
for this AD. We are changing the wording to the following in the
Summary, Discussion, and Unsafe Condition sections of the NPRM: ``We
are issuing this AD to correct inconsistencies in critical operating
procedures between the MU-2B specific training, the FAA-accepted pilot
operating checklists, and the AFMs, which, if not corrected, could
result in the pilot inadvertently taking inappropriate actions in
critical operating conditions.''

[[Page 34350]]

Comment Issue No. 2: Special Federal Aviation Regulation (SFAR)-108

Ralph M. Sorrells, Mitsubishi Heavy Industries America, Inc.,
states the current SFAR-108 mandates standardized training, the latest
revision of the AFM, and the use of standardized checklists. The SFAR
requirements have eliminated the ``inconsistencies'' as stated in the
NPRM; and the SFAR standardized FAA-accepted checklists, eliminating
the inconsistencies in the checklists; therefore, no unsafe condition
exists. We infer from this comment the commenter feels this AD action
is unnecessary. The FAA partially agrees with these comments.
We agree with the commenter that the SFAR-108 is the current
regulatory standard to follow, when inconsistencies exist between the
SFAR requirements and the approved AFM. However, we disagree with the
commenter that the inconsistencies have been eliminated. The SFAR
mandated the appropriate AFM for each model; however, it did not
specify an AFM revision level. Owners could currently be using a
version of the AFM that is not consistent with the FAA-accepted
checklists required by the SFAR. The intent of this NPRM is to mandate
the latest AFM revision level. To clarify the intent of the wording
``FAA-accepted checklists'' used in the NPRM, we are changing the first
paragraph of the Discussion section to read: ``* * * the safety
evaluation also revealed that many FAA-accepted pilot operating
checklists used by operators and trainers at the time of the evaluation
had no regulatory basis * * *''

Comment Issue No. 3: Current Applicable Service Bulletin for the
Compliance Section, Paragraph 2(e)(1)

Ralph M. Sorrells, Mitsubishi Heavy Industries America, Inc.,
states that the NPRM does not reference the latest revision to the
service bulletin in the Compliance section, paragraph 2(e)(1). He
suggests revising the Compliance section, paragraph 2(e)(1), to
reference MHI MU-2 Service Bulletin No. 233B, dated March 8, 2007, as
the applicable service bulletin for TCDS A2PC model airplanes.
The FAA partially agrees with this comment. We agree that
inspecting the engine torque indication system and recalibrating the
torque pressure transducers following MHI MU-2 Service Bulletin No.
233B, dated March 8, 2007, will comply with the requirements of the AD.
However, we disagree with requiring the actions following MHI MU-2
Service Bulletin No. 233B, dated March 8, 2007. The actions to inspect
the engine torque indication system and recalibrate the torque pressure
transducers are retained from AD 2006-17-01, issued in 2006, and doing
the actions following MHI MU-2 Service Bulletin No. 233A, dated January
14, 1999, still complies with the intent of AD 2006-17-01. We will
retain inspecting the engine torque indication system and recalibrating
the torque pressure transducers following MHI MU-2 Service Bulletin No.
233A, dated January 14, 1999, but add language allowing the use of MHI
MU-2 Service Bulletin No. 233B, dated March 8, 2007, to comply with the
requirements of this final rule AD action.

Comment Issue No. 4: Reformat Table No. 1

Ralph M. Sorrells, Mitsubishi Heavy Industries America, Inc.,
comments that Table 1 of the NPRM in the Compliance section of the NPRM
should be revised to clarify which TCDS applies to each model. The
commenter also suggests we change Table 1 of the NPRM to show the
correct revision level for the Model MU-2B-35 (A2PC), which is revision
10 versus revision 9. Certain model airplanes (-25, -26, and -35) were
type certificated under both the A2PC and A10SW type certificates and
have separate AFMs.
The commenter states Table 1 of the NPRM appears confusing as to
which AFM applies to the models approved under both TCDS A2PC and
A10SW. Table 1 of the NPRM does not reference the reissued AFM date
that applies for TCDS A2PC models. The AFM for TCDS A10SW models are
not affected since the power assurance charts were included in the
reissued AFM and have not been revised.
The FAA agrees with the commenter and will revise Table 3 of the
final rule AD action to clarify the appropriate TCDS and identify the
correct AFM, revision level, and effective pages for the power
assurance charts for all models.

Comment Issue No. 5: Reformat Table No. 2

Ralph M. Sorrells, Mitsubishi Heavy Industries America, Inc.,
comments on the need to clarify the appropriate action to obtain the
AFM information for Models MU-2B-35 and MU-2B-36 type certificated
under TCDS A10SW.
The commenter suggests referencing ``MU-2B-35 Airplane Flight
Manual J Model, Document Number MR-0158-1'' as the approved data for
Model MU-2B-35. The commenter also states there has never been an A10SW
version of the MU-2B-36 so this item should be removed. The commenter
recommends changing the language for the Note associated with Table 2
in the NPRM to state, ``AFM revisions are not available for Model MU-
2B-35 under TCDS A10SW because the only Model MU-2B-35 airplane is no
longer in service and was subsequently removed from the registry.
Mitsubishi Heavy Industries, Ltd. has indicated they have no intention
of putting the MU-2B-35 model back in production. There are no other
serial numbers eligible for this model, foreign or domestic. This model
is still eligible under the type certificate, so if Mitsubishi Heavy
Industries, Ltd., does put this model back in production, contact them
for an FAA-approved AFM.''
The FAA partially agrees with the commenter. We agree that the
A10SW TCDS has been revised to show no serial numbers for -35 and -36
models. However, since the models are still part of the type
certificate, we disagree with removing those models from the AD. As
such, we are retaining Models -35 and -36 in the Applicability section
of this AD. Since no serial numbers for these model airplanes currently
exist, it would be impossible to comply with the actions of this AD for
those airplane models. We are removing NOTE 2 and NOTE 3 and removing
Models -35 and -36 from TABLE 4 of this final rule AD action.

Comment Issue No. 6: Suggest the Wording ``Current AFM Revision''

Patrick E. Cannon, Turbine Aircraft Services, Inc., suggests that
to avoid revising the AD to mandate each subsequent AFM revision, the
NPRM use the term ``current AFM revision'' to mandate incorporating
subsequent revisions to the AFMs.
The FAA does not agree. We do not have the legal authority to
reference documents that do not currently exist for the purpose of
addressing an unsafe condition through AD action. The FAA will consider
approval of future revisions through additional rulemaking should the
need arise or may consider allowing their use of future revisions
through approval of an alternative method of compliance (AMOC) if the
substantiating data supports the revised AFM.

Conclusion

We have carefully reviewed the available data and determined that
air safety and the public interest require adopting the AD as proposed
except for the changes previously discussed and minor editorial
corrections. We have determined that these minor corrections:

[[Page 34351]]

Are consistent with the intent that was proposed in the
NPRM for correcting the unsafe condition; and
Do not add any additional burden upon the public than was
already proposed in the NPRM.

Costs of Compliance

We estimate that this AD affects 355 airplanes.
We estimate the following costs to accomplish the engine torque
indication system inspection, including the recalibration and ground
check if needed.
This is a retained cost from AD 2006-17-01:

----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Total cost per Total cost on
Labor cost Parts cost airplane U.S. operators
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
5 work-hours x $85 = $425.................... Not applicable................. $425 $150,875
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

We estimate the following costs to do the AFM revisions:

----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Total cost per Total cost on
Labor cost Parts cost airplane U.S. operators
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
1 work-hour x $85 per hour = $85............. Not applicable................. $85 $30,175
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

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 AD.

Regulatory Findings

We have 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 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 summary of the costs to comply with this AD (and
other information as included in the Regulatory Evaluation) and placed
it in the AD Docket. You may get a copy of this summary by sending a
request to us at the address listed under ADDRESSES. Include ``Docket
No. FAA-2009-1076; Directorate Identifier 2009-CE-019-AD'' in your
request.

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 Federal Aviation Administration amends part 39 of the Federal
Aviation Regulations (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 removing Airworthiness Directive (AD)
97-25-02, Amendment 39-10225 (62 FR 63830, December 3, 1997); AD 2000-
02-25, Amendment 39-11543 (65 FR 5422, February 4, 2000); AD 2006-15-
07, Amendment 39-14687 (71 FR 41116, July 20, 2006); and AD 2006-17-01,
Amendment 39-14722 (71 FR 47697, August 18, 2006), and adding the
following new AD:

2010-10-17 Mitsubishi Heavy Industries, Ltd.: Amendment 39-16296;
Docket No. FAA-2009-1076; Directorate Identifier 2009-CE-019-AD.

Effective Date

(a) This AD becomes effective on July 22, 2010.

Affected ADs

(b) This AD supersedes AD 97-25-02, Amendment 39-10225; AD 2000-
02-25, Amendment 39-11543; AD 2006-15-07, Amendment 39-14687; and AD
2006-17-01, Amendment 39-14722.

Applicability

[[Page 34352]]

Table 1--Mitsubishi Heavy Industries, Ltd., (MHI) Airplanes Listed in
Type Certificate Data Sheet (TCDS) A10SW
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Models Serial Nos.
------------------------------------------------------------------------
MU-2B-25, MU-2B-26, MU-2B-26A, MU-2B- All serial numbers.
36A, MU-2B-40, and MU-2B-60.
MU-2B-35 and MU-2B-36.................. There are no serial numbers for
MU-2B-35 or MU-2B-36 under
TCDS A10SW.
------------------------------------------------------------------------

Table 2--MHI Airplanes Listed in TCDS A2PC
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Models Serial Nos.
------------------------------------------------------------------------
MU-2B, MU-2B-10, MU-2B-15, MU-2B-20, All serial numbers.
MU-2B-25, MU-2B-26, MU-2B-30, MU-2B-
35, MU-2B-36.
------------------------------------------------------------------------

Unsafe Condition

(d) This AD results from inconsistencies in critical operating
procedures between the MU-2B specific training, the FAA-accepted
pilot operating checklists, and the airplane flight manuals (AFM).
MHI revised the AFMs to align them with the information in that
training and the checklists. We are issuing this AD to correct
inconsistencies in critical operating procedures between the MU-2B
specific training, the FAA-accepted pilot operating checklists, and
the AFMs, which, if not corrected, could result in pilots
inadvertently taking inappropriate actions in critical operating
conditions.

Compliance

(e) Do the following unless already done:
(1) Within 100 hours time-in-service (TIS) after September 22,
2006 (the effective date retained from AD 2006-17-01), inspect the
engine torque indication system and, before further flight after the
inspection, recalibrate the torque pressure transducers as required.
For airplanes listed in TCDS A2PC, follow MHI MU-2 Service Bulletin
No. 233A, dated January 14, 1999 or MHI MU-2 Service Bulletin No.
233B, dated March 8, 2007. For airplanes listed in TCDS A10SW,
follow MHI MU-2 Service Bulletin No. 095/77-002, dated July 15,
1998. This inspection requires the use of the following power
assurance charts as applicable:
(i) If you have not incorporated the AFM revisions required in
paragraph (e)(2) of this AD: Use the power assurance charts
referenced in Table 3 below; or
(ii) If you have already incorporated the AFM revisions required
in paragraph (e)(2) of this AD: Use the power assurance charts in
section 6 of the revised AFMs required by paragraph (e)(2) of this
AD.

Table 3--Power Assurance Chart From AD 2006-17-01
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
TCDS Airplane model affected Date and version of AFM Page No. from AFM
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
A2PC........................ MU-2B....................... AFM, Section 6, 6-34.
Reissued March 5,
1987, Revision 9,
dated January 14, 1999.
MU-2B-10.................... AFM, Section 6, 6-19.
Reissued March 5,
1987, Revision 9,
dated January 14, 1999.
MU-2B-15.................... AFM, Section 6, 6-19.
Reissued March 5,
1987, Revision 9,
dated January 14, 1999.
MU-2B-20.................... AFM, Section 6, 6-20.
Reissued March 3,
1987, Revision 9,
dated January 14, 1999.
MU-2B-25.................... AFM, Section 6, 6-19.
Reissued March 3,
1987, Revision 9,
dated January 14, 1999.
MU-2B-26.................... AFM, Section 6, 6-19.
Reissued March 3,
1987, Revision 9,
dated January 14, 1999.
MU-2B-30.................... AFM, Section 6, 6-19.
Reissued February 19,
1987, Revision 10,
dated January 14, 1999.
MU-2B-35.................... AFM, Section 6, 6-19.
Reissued February 19,
1987, Revision 10,
dated January 14, 1999.
MU-2B-36.................... AFM, Section 6, 6-20.
Reissued February 19,
1987, Revision 9,
dated January 14, 1999.
A10SW....................... MU-2B-25.................... AFM, Section 6, 6-18 and 6-19.
Reissued March 25,
1986.
MU-2B-26.................... AFM, Section 6, 6-17 and 6-18.
Reissued March 25,
1986.
MU-2B-26A................... AFM, Section 6, 6-17 and 6-18.
Reissued March 25,
1986.
MU-2B-36A................... AFM, Section 6, 6-20 and 6-21.
Reissued February 28,
1986.
MU-2B-40.................... AFM, Section 6, 6-17 and 6-18.
Reissued March 25,
1986.
MU-2B-60.................... AFM, Section 6, 6-19 and 6-20.
Reissued September 24,
1986.
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

(2) Within the next 50 hours TIS after July 22, 2010 (the
effective date of this AD) or within the next 6 months after July
22, 2010 (the effective date of this AD), whichever occurs first,
incorporate all revisions up to and including the latest revisions
as published in the list of effective pages of the applicable AFM
listed in Table 4 and Table 5 of this AD. Assure that the applicable
AFM contains each page, matching all the page numbers and page
dates, listed in the Effective Pages listing for that AFM. The
airplane identification data plate identifies the type certificate
number for that airplane:

Table 4--TCDS A10SW
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Airplane model AFM name Effective pages list
------------------------------------------------------------------------
MU-2B-25............... MU-2B-25 Airplane all revised pages up
Flight Manual K Model, to and including
Document Number MR- revision 11, dated
0156-1. March 10, 2009, as
listed on page 1 and
page 2 of the
``Effective Pages''
in the AFM.
MU-2B-26............... MU-2B-26 Airplane all revised pages up
Flight Manual M Model, to and including
Document Number MR- revision 11, dated
0160-1. March 10, 2009, as
listed on page 1 and
page 2 of the
``Effective Pages''
in the AFM.

[[Page 34353]]

MU-2B-26A.............. MU-2B-26A Airplane all revised pages up
Flight Manual P Model, to and including
Document Number MR- revision 13, dated
0194-1. March 10, 2009, as
listed on page 1 and
page 2 of the
``Effective Pages''
in the AFM.
MU-2B-36A.............. MU-2B-36A Airplane all revised pages up
Flight Manual N Model, to and including
Document Number MR- revision 15, dated
0196-1. March 10, 2009, as
listed on page 1 and
page 2 of the
``Effective Pages''
in the AFM.
MU-2B-40............... MU-2B-40 Airplane all revised pages up
Flight Manual to and including
SOLITAIRE Model, revision 13, dated
Document Number MR- March 10, 2009, as
0271-1. listed on page 1 and
page 2 of the
``Effective Pages''
in the AFM.
MU-2B-60............... MU-2B-60 Airplane all revised pages up
Flight Manual MARQUISE to and including
Model, Document Number revision 15, dated
MR-0273-1. March 10, 2009, as
listed on page 1 and
page 2 of the
``Effective Pages''
in the AFM.
------------------------------------------------------------------------

Table 5--TCDS A2PC
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Airplane model AFM name Effective pages list
------------------------------------------------------------------------
MU-2B.................. MU-2B Airplane Flight all revised pages up
Manual, YET 67026A. to and including
revision 13, dated
November 29, 2007, as
listed on page 1 and
page 2 of the
``Effective Pages''
in the AFM.
MU-2B-10............... MU-2B-10 Airplane all revised pages up
Flight Manual, YET to and including
86400. revision 13, dated
November 29, 2007, as
listed on page 1 and
page 2 of the
``Effective Pages''
in the AFM.
MU-2B-15............... MU-2B-15 Airplane all revised pages up
Flight Manual, YET to and including
68038A. revision 13, dated
November 29, 2007, as
listed on page 1 and
page 2 of the
``Effective Pages''
in the AFM.
MU-2B-20............... MU-2B-20 Airplane all revised pages up
Flight Manual, YET to and including
68034A. revision 13, dated
November 29, 2007, as
listed on page 1 and
page 2 of the
``Effective Pages''
in the AFM.
MU-2B-25............... MU-2B-25 Airplane all revised pages up
Flight Manual, YET to and including
71367A. revision 13, dated
November 29, 2007, as
listed on page 1 and
page 2 of the
``Effective Pages''
in the AFM.
MU-2B-26............... MU-2B-26 Airplane all revised pages up
Flight Manual, YET to and including
74129A. revision 13, dated
November 29, 2007, as
listed on page 1 and
page 2 of the
``Effective Pages''
in the AFM.
MU-2B-30............... MU-2B-30 Airplane all revised pages up
Flight Manual, YET to and including
69013A. revision 14, dated
November 29, 2007, as
listed on page 1 and
page 2 of the
``Effective Pages''
in the AFM.
MU-2B-35............... MU-2B-35 Airplane all revised pages up
Flight Manual, YET to and including
70186A. revision 14, dated
November 29, 2007, as
listed on page 1 and
page 2 of the
``Effective Pages''
in the AFM.
MU-2B-36............... MU-2B-36 Airplane all revised pages up
Flight Manual, YET to and including
74122A. revision 13, dated
November 29, 2007, as
listed on page 1 and
page 2 of the
``Effective Pages''
in the AFM.
------------------------------------------------------------------------

Alternative Methods of Compliance (AMOCs)

(f) The Manager, FAA, Fort Worth Airplane Certification Office
(ACO), has the authority to approve AMOCs for this AD, if requested
using the procedures found in 14 CFR 39.19. Send information to
ATTN: Al Wilson, Flight Test Pilot, FAA, Fort Worth ACO, 2601
Meacham Blvd., Fort Worth, Texas 76137; telephone: (817) 222-5146;
fax: (817) 222-5960. 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.

Material Incorporated by Reference

(g) You must use Mitsubishi Heavy Industries, Ltd. MU-2 Service
Bulletin No. 233A, dated January 14, 1999; Mitsubishi Heavy
Industries, Ltd. MU-2 Service Bulletin No. 095/77-002, dated July
15, 1998; Mitsubishi Heavy Industries, Ltd. MU-2 Service Bulletin
No. 233B, dated March 8, 2007; and the AFMs specified in Table 6 of
this AD to do the actions required by this AD, unless the AD
specifies otherwise. The AFMs and Pilot's Operating Manuals (POMs)
are bound together in one book for each airplane model; however,
only the AFMs are required to comply with this AD. The POMs are not
approved data and are not incorporated by reference; the POMs are
not required to comply with this AD.
(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) On September 22, 2006 (71 FR 47699, August 18, 2006) the
Director of the Federal Register approved the incorporation by
reference of Mitsubishi Heavy Industries, Ltd. MU-2 Service Bulletin
No. 095/77-002, dated July 15, 1998; and Mitsubishi Heavy
Industries, Ltd. MU-2 Service Bulletin No. 233A, dated January 14,
1999.
(3) For service information identified in this AD, contact
Mitsubishi Heavy Industries America, Inc., 4951 Airport Parkway,
Suite 800, Addison, Texas 75001; telephone: (972) 934-5480; fax:
(972) 934-5488; Internet: https://www.mu-2aircraft.com or https://www.turbineair.com.
(4) You may review copies of the service information
incorporated by reference for this AD at the FAA, Central Region,
Office of the Regional Counsel, 901 Locust, Kansas City, Missouri
64106. For information on the availability of this material at the
Central Region, call (816) 329-3768.
(5) You may also review copies of the service information
incorporated by reference for this AD 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.

[[Page 34354]]

Table 6--Material Incorporated by Reference
------------------------------------------------------------------------
AFM/POM name AFM effective pages list
------------------------------------------------------------------------
MU-2B-25 Airplane Flight Manual K all revised pages up to and
Model, Document Number MR-0156-1, MU- including revision 11, dated
2B-25; MU-2B-25 Pilot's Operating March 10, 2009, as listed on
Manual, Document Number MR-0157-1, page 1 and page 2 of the
revised July 15, 2004. ``Effective Pages'' in the
AFM.
MU-2B-26 Airplane Flight Manual M all revised pages up to and
Model, Document Number MR-0160-1; MU- including revision 11, dated
2B-26 Pilot's Operating Manual, March 10, 2009, as listed on
Document Number MR-0161-1, revised page 1 and page 2 of the
July 15, 2004. ``Effective Pages'' in the
AFM.
MU-2B-26A Airplane Flight Manual P all revised pages up to and
Model, Document Number MR-0194-1; MU- including revision 13, dated
2B-26A Pilot's Operating Manual, March 10, 2009, as listed on
Document Number MR-0195-1, revised page 1 and page 2 of the
July 15, 2004. ``Effective Pages'' in the
AFM.
MU-2B-36A Airplane Flight Manual N all revised pages up to and
Model, Document Number MR-0196-1; MU- including revision 15, dated
2B-36A Pilot's Operating Manual, March 10, 2009, as listed on
Document Number MR-0197-1, revised page 1 and page 2 of the
July 15, 2004. ``Effective Pages'' in the
AFM.
MU-2B-40 Airplane Flight Manual all revised pages up to and
SOLITAIRE Model, Document Number MR- including revision 13, dated
0271-1; MU-2B-40 Pilot's Operating March 10, 2009, as listed on
Manual, Document Number MR-0335-1, page 1 and page 2 of the
revised July 15, 2004. ``Effective Pages'' in the
AFM.
MU-2B-60 Airplane Flight Manual all revised pages up to and
MARQUISE Model, Document Number MR- including revision 15, dated
0273-1; MU-2B-60 Pilot's Operating March 10, 2009, as listed on
Manual, Document Number MR-0338-1, page 1 and page 2 of the
revised July 15, 2004. ``Effective Pages'' in the
AFM.
MU-2B Airplane Flight Manual, YET all revised pages up to and
67026A; MU-2B Pilot's Operating including revision 13, dated
Manual, Document Number YET 67025A, November 29, 2007, as listed
revised September 10, 1997. on page 1 and page 2 of the
``Effective Pages'' in the
AFM.
MU-2B-10 Airplane Flight Manual, YET all revised pages up to and
86400; MU-2B-10 Pilot's Operating including revision 13, dated
Manual, Document Number YET 87236, November 29, 2007, as listed
revised September 10, 1997. on page 1 and page 2 of the
``Effective Pages'' in the
AFM.
MU-2B-15 Airplane Flight Manual, YET all revised pages up to and
68038A; MU-2B-15 Pilot's Operating including revision 13, dated
Manual, Document Number YET 87237, November 29, 2007, as listed
revised September 10, 1997. on page 1 and page 2 of the
``Effective Pages'' in the
AFM.
MU-2B-20 Airplane Flight Manual, YET all revised pages up to and
68034A; MU-2B-20 Pilot's Operating including revision 13, dated
Manual, Document Number YET 68134A, November 29, 2007, as listed
revised February 20, 1998. on page 1 and page 2 of the
``Effective Pages'' in the
AFM.
MU-2B-25 Airplane Flight Manual, YET all revised pages up to and
71367A; MU-2B-25 Pilot's Operating including revision 13, dated
Manual, Document Number YET 72067A, November 29, 2007, as listed
revised September 10, 1997. on page 1 and page 2 of the
``Effective Pages'' in the
AFM.
MU-2B-26 Airplane Flight Manual, YET all revised pages up to and
74129A; MU-2B-26 Pilot's Operating including revision 13, dated
Manual, Document Number YET 74130A, November 29, 2007, as listed
revised September 10, 1997. on page 1 and page 2 of the
``Effective Pages'' in the
AFM.
MU-2B-30 Airplane Flight Manual, YET all revised pages up to and
69013A; MU-2B-30 Pilot's Operating including revision 14, dated
Manual, Document Number YET 69224A, November 29, 2007, as listed
revised September 10, 1997. on page 1 and page 2 of the
``Effective Pages'' in the
AFM.
MU-2B-35 Airplane Flight Manual, YET all revised pages up to and
70186A; MU-2B-10 Pilot's Operating including revision 14, dated
Manual, Document Number YET 70187A, November 29, 2007, as listed
revised September 10, 1997. on page 1 and page 2 of the
``Effective Pages'' in the
AFM.
MU-2B-36 Airplane Flight Manual, YET all revised pages up to and
74122A; MU-2B-36 Pilot's Operating including revision 13, dated
Manual, Document Number YET 74123A, November 29, 2007, as listed
revised September 10, 1997. on page 1 and page 2 of the
``Effective Pages'' in the
AFM.
------------------------------------------------------------------------

Issued in Kansas City, Missouri on May 4, 2010.
Wes Ryan,
Acting Manager, Small Airplane Directorate, Aircraft Certification
Service.
[FR Doc. 2010-11034 Filed 6-16-10; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE 4910-13-P

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