Airworthiness Directives; Eurocopter France (ECF) Model AS350B3 and EC130 B4 Helicopters, 63052-63054 [2010-25270]
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63052
Federal Register / Vol. 75, No. 198 / Thursday, October 14, 2010 / Rules and Regulations
Adoption of the Amendment
Accordingly, under the authority
delegated to me by the Administrator,
the FAA amends 14 CFR part 39 as
follows:
■
PART 39—AIRWORTHINESS
DIRECTIVES
1. The authority citation for part 39
continues to read as follows:
■
Authority: 49 U.S.C. 106(g), 40113, 44701.
§ 39.13
[Amended]
2. The FAA amends § 39.13 by adding
the following new AD:
■
2010–21–01 Eurocopter France:
Amendment 39–16461. Docket No.
FAA–2010–0969; Directorate Identifier
2009–SW–62–AD.
Effective Date
(a) This airworthiness directive (AD)
becomes effective on October 29, 2010.
Other Affected ADs
(b) None.
Applicability
(c) This AD applies to Eurocopter France
Model AS350B, BA, B1, B2, B3, D, AS355E,
F, F1, F2, and N helicopters, certificated in
any category.
emcdonald on DSK2BSOYB1PROD with RULES
Reason
(d) The mandatory continuing
airworthiness information (MCAI) AD states
that AD is issued following one report of a
crack discovered in the area of the center
cross-member at station X 2325, at the
attachment point of the yaw channel balltype control sheath stop of an AS355N
helicopter with the collective-to-yaw control
coupling. Investigations revealed that the
helicopter did not have the structural
doublers installed, which are combined with
the collective-to-yaw control coupling
installation. Repetitive loads on the nonmodified cross-member may cause it to crack.
A crack can reduce the yaw control travel.
The AD requires actions that are intended to
prevent reduced yaw control and subsequent
loss of control of the helicopter.
Actions and Compliance
(e) Within 10 hours time-in-service (TIS) or
within 1 month, whichever occurs first,
unless already done, determine whether the
cross-member (numbered ‘‘1’’) at station X
2165 and the two doublers (numbered ‘‘2’’
and ‘‘3’’) at stations X 2325 and Y 269 are
installed as shown in Figure 1 of Eurocoper
Emergency Alert Service Bulletin (EASB) No.
53.00.37, dated April 11, 2007 (EASB
53.00.37), for the Model AS350 helicopters
and EASB No. 53.00.23, dated April 11, 2007
(EASB 53.00.23), for the Model AS355
helicopters.
Note: The one Eurocopter EASB contains 3
different numbers (Nos. 53.00.37, 53.00.11,
and 53.00.23) for 4 different Eurocopter
model helicopters. EASB 53.00.37 relates to
2 Model 350 (350 BB and 350 L1) helicopters
that are not type-certificated in the United
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16:06 Oct 13, 2010
Jkt 223001
States; and EASB No. 53.00.11 relates to 4
Model 550 and 6 Model 555 military
helicopters that are not type-certificated in
the United States.
(f) If the cross-member (numbered ‘‘1’’) and
doublers (numbered ‘‘2’’ and ‘‘3’’) are not
installed, before further flight, inspect for a
crack in the center cross-member (numbered
‘‘4’’) in the area around the attachment point
of the tail rotor directional ball-type control
as shown in Figure 1 of EASB 53.00.37 for
the Model AS350 helicopters or EASB
53.00.23 for the Model AS355 helicopters.
(1) If you find a crack, before further flight,
replace the unairworthy center cross-member
(Numbered ‘‘4’’) with an airworthy center
cross-member and comply with paragraph (g)
of this AD.
(2) If you do not find a crack, before further
flight, inspect the tail rotor control rigging.
(g) Within 55 hours TIS, install the crossmember (Numbered ‘‘1’’) at station X 2165
and the 2 doublers (Numbered ‘‘2’’ and ‘‘3’’)
at stations X 2325 and Y 269 by following the
Appendix and the referenced Figures 2 and
3 of EASB 53.00.37 for the Model AS350
helicopters and EASB 53.00.23 for the Model
AS355 helicopters.
Differences Between the FAA AD and the
MCAI AD
(h) This AD differs from the MCAI AD as
follows:
(1) We use the word ‘‘inspect’’ to describe
the actions required by an inspector versus
the word ‘‘check,’’ which is how we describe
the actions allowed by a pilot.
(2) We refer to the compliance time as
hours TIS rather than flying hours.
(3) We do not include the military model
helicopters.
Other Information
(i) Alternative Methods of Compliance
(AMOCs): The Manager, Safety Management
Group, Rotorcraft Directorate, FAA, ATTN:
Gary Roach, Aviation Safety Engineer, 2601
Meacham Blvd., Fort Worth, Texas 76137,
telephone (817) 222–5130, fax (817) 222–
5961, has the authority to approve AMOCs
for this AD, if requested, using the
procedures found in 14 CFR 39.19.
Related Information
(j) EASA Emergency AD No. 2007–0139–E,
dated May 15, 2007 (corrected May 23, 2007),
contains related information.
Joint Aircraft System/Component (JASC)
Code
(k) The JASC Code is 5320—Fuselage Misc.
Structure.
Material Incorporated by Reference
(l) You must use the specified portions of
Eurocoper Emergency Alert Service Bulletin
No. 53.00.37 for the AS350 model helicopters
and No. 53.00.23 for the AS355 model
helicopters, both dated April 11, 2007, to do
the actions required.
(1) The Director of the Federal Register
approved the incorporation by reference of
this service information under 5 U.S.C.
552(a) and 1 CFR part 51.
(2) For service information identified in
this AD, contact American Eurocopter
Corporation, 2701 Forum Drive, Grand
PO 00000
Frm 00014
Fmt 4700
Sfmt 4700
Prairie, Texas 75053–4005, telephone (800)
232–0323, fax (972) 641–3510.
(3) You may review copies at the FAA,
Office of the Regional Counsel, DOT/FAA
Southwest Region, 2601 Meacham Blvd., Fort
Worth, TX 76137; or at the National Archives
and Records Administration (NARA). For
information on the availability of this
material at NARA, call (202) 741–6030, or go
to: https://www.archives.gov/federal-register/
cfr/ibr-locations.html.
Issued in Fort Worth, Texas, on September
23, 2010.
Mark R. Schilling,
Acting Manager, Rotorcraft Directorate,
Aircraft Certification Service.
[FR Doc. 2010–25273 Filed 10–13–10; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE 4910–13–P
DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION
Federal Aviation Administration
14 CFR Part 39
[Docket No. FAA–2010–0779; Directorate
Identifier 2009–SW–84–AD; Amendment 39–
16467; AD 2010–21–07]
RIN 2120–AA64
Airworthiness Directives; Eurocopter
France (ECF) Model AS350B3 and
EC130 B4 Helicopters
Federal Aviation
Administration (FAA), DOT.
ACTION: Final rule.
AGENCY:
This amendment adopts a
new airworthiness directive (AD) for the
Eurocopter France Model AS350B3 and
EC130 B4 helicopters. This amendment
is prompted by a mandatory continuing
airworthiness information (MCAI) AD
issued by the European Aviation Safety
Agency (EASA), which is the Technical
Agent for the Member States of the
European Community. The MCAI AD
states that a dormant failure of one of
the two contactors 53Ka or 53Kb can
occur following certain modifications.
Failure of a contactor can prevent
switching from ‘‘IDLE’’ mode to
‘‘FLIGHT’’ mode during autorotation
training making it impossible to execute
a power recovery and compelling the
pilot to continue the autorotation to the
ground. This condition, if not corrected,
can lead to an unintended touchdown to
the ground during a practice
autorotation at a flight-idle power
setting, damage to the helicopter, and
injury to the occupants.
DATES: Effective November 18, 2010.
The incorporation by reference of
certain publications listed in the
regulations is approved by the Director
of the Federal Register as of November
18, 2010.
SUMMARY:
E:\FR\FM\14OCR1.SGM
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Federal Register / Vol. 75, No. 198 / Thursday, October 14, 2010 / Rules and Regulations
You may get the service
information identified in this AD from
American Eurocopter Corporation, 2701
Forum Drive, Grand Prairie, Texas
75053–4005, telephone (800) 232–0323,
fax (972) 641–3710, or at https://
www.eurocopter.com.
Examining the Docket: You may
examine the docket that contains this
AD, any comments, and other
information on the Internet at https://
www.regulations.gov or at the Docket
Operations office, West Building
Ground Floor, Room W12–140, 1200
New Jersey Avenue, SE., Washington,
DC.
ADDRESSES:
FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT:
DOT/FAA Southwest Region, Rotorcraft
Directorate, Safety Management Group,
ASW–112, Ed Cuevas, Aviation Safety
Engineer, 2601 Meacham Blvd., Fort
Worth, Texas 76137; telephone: 817–
222–5135; fax: 817–222–5961.
SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION:
emcdonald on DSK2BSOYB1PROD with RULES
Discussion
We issued a Notice of Proposed
Rulemaking (NPRM) to amend 14 CFR
part 39 to include an AD that would
apply to ECF Model AS350B3 and
EC130 B4 helicopters on August 3,
2010. That NPRM was published in the
Federal Register on August 11, 2010 (75
FR 48615). That NPRM proposed to
require inspecting the pilot’s and copilot’s throttle twist for proper operation
of the contactors, which provide for
changes between the ‘‘IDLE’’ and
‘‘FLIGHT’’ positions of the throttle twist
grip control.
The European Aviation Safety Agency
(EASA), which is the Technical Agent
for the Member States of the European
Community, has issued EASA AD No.
2009–0256, dated December 2, 2009, to
correct an unsafe condition for the ECF
Model AS350B3 and EC130 B4
helicopters. EASA advises that analysis
shows a dormant failure of one of the
two contactors 53Ka or 53Kb can occur
following the modification of the Model
AS350B3 by MOD 073254 and
modification of the Model EC130 B4 by
MOD 073773. Failure of a contactor can
prevent switching from ‘‘IDLE’’ mode to
‘‘FLIGHT’’ mode during autorotation
training making it impossible to execute
a power recovery and compelling the
pilot to continue the autorotation to the
ground. This condition, if not corrected,
can lead to an unintended touchdown to
the ground during a practice
autorotation at a flight-idle power
setting, damage to the helicopter, and
injury to the occupants.
VerDate Mar<15>2010
16:06 Oct 13, 2010
Jkt 223001
Related Service Information
ECF has issued Alert Service Bulletin
(ASB) No. 05.00.61 for the Model
AS350B3 helicopters and ASB No.
05A009 for the EC130 B4 helicopters.
Both ASBs are dated November 16,
2009. Both ASBs specify a functional
check of the two contactors 53Ka and
53Kb, which are used to switch from
‘‘IDLE’’ to ‘‘FLIGHT’’ mode or vice versa.
The ASBs also specify repetitive
checking of the contactors for correct
opening and closing to detect this
dormant failure. ECF states that it will
be preparing a modification, which will
cancel the ASBs, in the very near future.
Once the manufacturer develops
corrective terminating actions, we
anticipate further rulemaking.
FAA’s Evaluation and Unsafe Condition
Determination
These products have been approved
by the aviation authority of France and
are approved for operation in the United
States. Pursuant to our bilateral
agreement with France, EASA, their
technical representative, has notified us
of the unsafe condition described in the
EASA AD. We are issuing this AD
because we evaluated all information
provided by EASA and determined the
unsafe condition exists and is likely to
exist or develop on other products of
these same type designs.
Differences Between this AD and the
MCAI AD
We refer to flying hours as hours timein-service (TIS). Also, we refer to
maintenance actions as inspections
rather than checks.
Comments
By publishing the NPRM, we gave the
public an opportunity to participate in
developing this AD. However, we
received no comments on the NPRM or
on our determination of the cost to the
public. Therefore, based on our review
and evaluation of the available data, we
have determined that air safety and the
public interest require adopting the AD
as proposed.
Costs of Compliance
We estimate that this AD will affect
about 116 of the Model EC130 B4
helicopters and 231 of the Model
AS350B3 helicopters for a total of 347
helicopters of U.S. registry. We also
estimate that it will take about 0.5 workhour per helicopter to inspect and about
0.5 work-hour per helicopter to replace
a micro-switch. The average labor rate is
$85 per work-hour. Required parts cost
about $538 for the T3933–3
microswitch. Based on these figures, we
estimate that the cost of this AD on U.S.
PO 00000
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63053
operators is $21,714, assuming 4
microswitches are replaced on the
Model EC130 B4 helicopters and 8
microswitches are replaced on the
Model AS350B3 helicopters.
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 the 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 an
economic evaluation of the estimated
costs to comply with this AD. See the
AD docket to examine the economic
evaluation.
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.
List of Subjects in 14 CFR Part 39
Air transportation, Aircraft, Aviation
safety, Incorporation by reference,
Safety.
Adoption of the Amendment
Accordingly, pursuant to 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:
■
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63054
Federal Register / Vol. 75, No. 198 / Thursday, October 14, 2010 / Rules and Regulations
PART 39—AIRWORTHINESS
DIRECTIVES
Differences Between This AD and the MCAI
AD
DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION
(f) We refer to flight hours as hours TIS.
Also, we refer to maintenance actions as
inspections rather than checks. Finally,
Federal Aviation Administration
1. The authority citation for part 39
continues to read as follows:
Other Information
[Docket No. FAA–2009–1229; Directorate
Identifier 2009–NM–106–AD; Amendment
39–16471; AD 2010–21–11]
■
Authority: 49 U.S.C. 106(g), 40113, 44701.
Effective Date
(a) This airworthiness directive (AD)
becomes effective on November 18, 2010.
(g) Alternative Methods of Compliance
(AMOCs): The Manager, Safety Management
Group, ATTN: DOT/FAA Southwest Region,
Ed Cuevas, ASW–112, Aviation Safety
Engineer, Rotorcraft Directorate, Safety
Management Group, 2601 Meacham Blvd.,
Fort Worth, Texas 76137, telephone (817)
222–5355, fax (817) 222–5961, has the
authority to approve AMOCs for this AD, if
requested, using the procedures found in 14
CFR 39.19.
Related Information
§ 39.13
[Amended]
2. Section 39.13 is amended by adding
a new airworthiness directive to read as
follows:
■
2010–21–07 Eurocopter France:
Amendment 39–16467; Docket No.
FAA–2010–0779; Directorate Identifier
2009–SW–84–AD.
(h) MCAI AD No. 2009–0256, dated
December 2, 2009, contains related
information.
Other Affected ADs
(b) None.
Applicability
(c) This AD applies to Model AS350B3 and
EC130 B4 helicopters, certificated in any
category, with the ARRIEL 2B1 engine with
the two-channel Full Authority Digital
Engine Control (FADEC), and with new twist
grip modification (MOD) 073254 for the
Model AS350B3 helicopter or MOD 073773
for the Model EC130 B4 helicopter, installed.
Reason
(d) The mandatory continuing
airworthiness information (MCAI) AD states
that analysis shows a ‘‘dormant failure’’ of
one of the two contactors, 53Ka or 53Kb, can
occur following the introduction of MOD
073254 or MOD 073773. Failure of a
contactor can prevent switching from ‘‘IDLE’’
mode to ‘‘FLIGHT’’ mode during autorotation
training making it impossible to recover from
the practice autorotation and compelling the
pilot to continue the autorotation to the
ground. This condition, if not corrected, can
lead to an unintended touchdown to the
ground at a flight-idle power setting during
a practice autorotation, damage to the
helicopter, and injury to the occupants.
Actions and Compliance
emcdonald on DSK2BSOYB1PROD with RULES
14 CFR Part 39
(e) Before the next practice autorotation or
on or before 100 hours time-in-service (TIS),
whichever occurs first, unless accomplished
previously, and thereafter at intervals not to
exceed 600 hours TIS:
(1) Inspect for the proper operation of
contactors 53Ka and 53Kb by rotating the
pilot and co-pilot throttle twist grip controls
between the ‘‘IDLE’’ and ‘‘FLIGHT’’ position in
accordance with the Accomplishment
Instructions, paragraph 2.B.2, of Eurocopter
Alert Service Bulletin (ASB) No. 05.00.61,
dated November 16, 2009, for the Model
AS350B3 helicopters or ASB No. 05A009,
dated November 16, 2009, for the Model
EC130 B4 helicopters, as appropriate for your
model helicopter.
(2) Test the pilot and co-pilot throttle twist
grip controls for proper functioning. If the
throttle twist grip controls are not
functioning properly, repair the controls.
VerDate Mar<15>2010
16:06 Oct 13, 2010
Jkt 223001
Joint Aircraft System/Component (JASC)
Code
(i) The JASC Code is 7697: Engine Control
System Wiring.
Material Incorporated by Reference
(j) You must use Eurocopter Alert Service
Bulletin ASB No. 05.00.61 or 05A009, both
dated November 16, 2009, to do the actions
required by this AD, unless the AD specifies
otherwise.
(1) The Director of the Federal Register
approved the incorporation by reference of
this service information under 5 U.S.C.
552(a) and 1 CFR part 51.
(2) For service information identified in
this AD, contact American Eurocopter
Corporation, 2701 Forum Drive, Grand
Prairie, Texas 75053–4005, telephone (800)
232–0323, fax (972) 641–3710, or at https://
www.eurocopter.com.
(3) You may review copies at the FAA,
Office of the Regional Counsel, Southwest
Region, 2601 Meacham Blvd., Room 663, Fort
Worth, Texas or at the National Archives and
Records Administration (NARA). For
information on the availability of this
material at NARA, call (202) 741–6030, or go
to: https://www.archives.gov/federal-register/
cfr/ibr-locations.html.
Issued in Fort Worth, Texas, on September
29, 2010.
Kim Smith,
Manager, Rotorcraft Directorate, Aircraft
Certification Service
[FR Doc. 2010–25270 Filed 10–13–10; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE 4910–13–P
PO 00000
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RIN 2120–AA64
Airworthiness Directives; Bombardier,
Inc. Model CL–600–2B19 (Regional Jet
Series 100 & 440) Airplanes
Federal Aviation
Administration (FAA), Department of
Transportation (DOT).
ACTION: Final rule.
AGENCY:
We are adopting a new
airworthiness directive (AD) for the
products listed above. This AD results
from mandatory continuing
airworthiness information (MCAI)
originated by an aviation authority of
another country to identify and correct
an unsafe condition on an aviation
product. The MCAI describes the unsafe
condition as:
SUMMARY:
A specific batch of nose landing gear (NLG)
and NLG door selector valves, part number
(P/N) 601R75146–1 (Kaiser Fluid
Technologies P/N 750006000), may have had
their end caps incorrectly lock-wired and/or
incorrectly torqued during assembly. This
condition can lead to the end cap backing off,
with consequent damage to a seal and
internal leakage within the valve.
Subsequently, if electrical power is
transferred or removed from the aircraft
before the NLG safety pin is installed, any
pressure, including residual pressure, in the
No. 3 hydraulic system can result in an
uncommanded NLG retraction and/or
uncommanded opening of the NLG doors.
There have been six cases reported on
CL[-]600–2B19 aircraft, one of which resulted
in the collapse of the NLG at the departure
gate.
*
*
*
*
*
We are issuing this AD to require
actions to correct the unsafe condition
on these products.
DATES: This AD becomes effective
November 18, 2010.
The Director of the Federal Register
approved the incorporation by reference
of a certain publication listed in this AD
as of November 18, 2010.
ADDRESSES: You may examine the AD
docket on the Internet at https://
www.regulations.gov or in person at the
U.S. Department of Transportation,
Docket Operations, M–30, West
Building Ground Floor, Room W12–140,
1200 New Jersey Avenue, SE.,
Washington, DC.
FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT:
Cesar Gomez, Aerospace Engineer,
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]]>Agencies
[Federal Register Volume 75, Number 198 (Thursday, October 14, 2010)]
[Rules and Regulations]
[Pages 63052-63054]
From the Federal Register Online via the Government Printing Office [www.gpo.gov]
[FR Doc No: 2010-25270]
-----------------------------------------------------------------------
DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION
Federal Aviation Administration
14 CFR Part 39
[Docket No. FAA-2010-0779; Directorate Identifier 2009-SW-84-AD;
Amendment 39-16467; AD 2010-21-07]
RIN 2120-AA64
Airworthiness Directives; Eurocopter France (ECF) Model AS350B3
and EC130 B4 Helicopters
AGENCY: Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), DOT.
ACTION: Final rule.
-----------------------------------------------------------------------
SUMMARY: This amendment adopts a new airworthiness directive (AD) for
the Eurocopter France Model AS350B3 and EC130 B4 helicopters. This
amendment is prompted by a mandatory continuing airworthiness
information (MCAI) AD issued by the European Aviation Safety Agency
(EASA), which is the Technical Agent for the Member States of the
European Community. The MCAI AD states that a dormant failure of one of
the two contactors 53Ka or 53Kb can occur following certain
modifications. Failure of a contactor can prevent switching from
``IDLE'' mode to ``FLIGHT'' mode during autorotation training making it
impossible to execute a power recovery and compelling the pilot to
continue the autorotation to the ground. This condition, if not
corrected, can lead to an unintended touchdown to the ground during a
practice autorotation at a flight-idle power setting, damage to the
helicopter, and injury to the occupants.
DATES: Effective November 18, 2010.
The incorporation by reference of certain publications listed in
the regulations is approved by the Director of the Federal Register as
of November 18, 2010.
[[Page 63053]]
ADDRESSES: You may get the service information identified in this AD
from American Eurocopter Corporation, 2701 Forum Drive, Grand Prairie,
Texas 75053-4005, telephone (800) 232-0323, fax (972) 641-3710, or at
https://www.eurocopter.com.
Examining the Docket: You may examine the docket that contains this
AD, any comments, and other information on the Internet at https://www.regulations.gov or at the Docket Operations office, West Building
Ground Floor, Room W12-140, 1200 New Jersey Avenue, SE., Washington,
DC.
FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: DOT/FAA Southwest Region, Rotorcraft
Directorate, Safety Management Group, ASW-112, Ed Cuevas, Aviation
Safety Engineer, 2601 Meacham Blvd., Fort Worth, Texas 76137;
telephone: 817-222-5135; fax: 817-222-5961.
SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION:
Discussion
We issued a Notice of Proposed Rulemaking (NPRM) to amend 14 CFR
part 39 to include an AD that would apply to ECF Model AS350B3 and
EC130 B4 helicopters on August 3, 2010. That NPRM was published in the
Federal Register on August 11, 2010 (75 FR 48615). That NPRM proposed
to require inspecting the pilot's and co-pilot's throttle twist for
proper operation of the contactors, which provide for changes between
the ``IDLE'' and ``FLIGHT'' positions of the throttle twist grip
control.
The European Aviation Safety Agency (EASA), which is the Technical
Agent for the Member States of the European Community, has issued EASA
AD No. 2009-0256, dated December 2, 2009, to correct an unsafe
condition for the ECF Model AS350B3 and EC130 B4 helicopters. EASA
advises that analysis shows a dormant failure of one of the two
contactors 53Ka or 53Kb can occur following the modification of the
Model AS350B3 by MOD 073254 and modification of the Model EC130 B4 by
MOD 073773. Failure of a contactor can prevent switching from ``IDLE''
mode to ``FLIGHT'' mode during autorotation training making it
impossible to execute a power recovery and compelling the pilot to
continue the autorotation to the ground. This condition, if not
corrected, can lead to an unintended touchdown to the ground during a
practice autorotation at a flight-idle power setting, damage to the
helicopter, and injury to the occupants.
Related Service Information
ECF has issued Alert Service Bulletin (ASB) No. 05.00.61 for the
Model AS350B3 helicopters and ASB No. 05A009 for the EC130 B4
helicopters. Both ASBs are dated November 16, 2009. Both ASBs specify a
functional check of the two contactors 53Ka and 53Kb, which are used to
switch from ``IDLE'' to ``FLIGHT'' mode or vice versa. The ASBs also
specify repetitive checking of the contactors for correct opening and
closing to detect this dormant failure. ECF states that it will be
preparing a modification, which will cancel the ASBs, in the very near
future. Once the manufacturer develops corrective terminating actions,
we anticipate further rulemaking.
FAA's Evaluation and Unsafe Condition Determination
These products have been approved by the aviation authority of
France and are approved for operation in the United States. Pursuant to
our bilateral agreement with France, EASA, their technical
representative, has notified us of the unsafe condition described in
the EASA AD. We are issuing this AD because we evaluated all
information provided by EASA and determined the unsafe condition exists
and is likely to exist or develop on other products of these same type
designs.
Differences Between this AD and the MCAI AD
We refer to flying hours as hours time-in-service (TIS). Also, we
refer to maintenance actions as inspections rather than checks.
Comments
By publishing the NPRM, we gave the public an opportunity to
participate in developing this AD. However, we received no comments on
the NPRM or on our determination of the cost to the public. Therefore,
based on our review and evaluation of the available data, we have
determined that air safety and the public interest require adopting the
AD as proposed.
Costs of Compliance
We estimate that this AD will affect about 116 of the Model EC130
B4 helicopters and 231 of the Model AS350B3 helicopters for a total of
347 helicopters of U.S. registry. We also estimate that it will take
about 0.5 work-hour per helicopter to inspect and about 0.5 work-hour
per helicopter to replace a micro-switch. The average labor rate is $85
per work-hour. Required parts cost about $538 for the T3933-3
microswitch. Based on these figures, we estimate that the cost of this
AD on U.S. operators is $21,714, assuming 4 microswitches are replaced
on the Model EC130 B4 helicopters and 8 microswitches are replaced on
the Model AS350B3 helicopters.
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 the 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 an economic evaluation
of the estimated costs to comply with this AD. See the AD docket to
examine the economic evaluation.
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.
List of Subjects in 14 CFR Part 39
Air transportation, Aircraft, Aviation safety, Incorporation by
reference, Safety.
Adoption of the Amendment
0
Accordingly, pursuant to 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:
[[Page 63054]]
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. Section 39.13 is amended by adding a new airworthiness directive to
read as follows:
2010-21-07 Eurocopter France: Amendment 39-16467; Docket No. FAA-
2010-0779; Directorate Identifier 2009-SW-84-AD.
Effective Date
(a) This airworthiness directive (AD) becomes effective on
November 18, 2010.
Other Affected ADs
(b) None.
Applicability
(c) This AD applies to Model AS350B3 and EC130 B4 helicopters,
certificated in any category, with the ARRIEL 2B1 engine with the
two-channel Full Authority Digital Engine Control (FADEC), and with
new twist grip modification (MOD) 073254 for the Model AS350B3
helicopter or MOD 073773 for the Model EC130 B4 helicopter,
installed.
Reason
(d) The mandatory continuing airworthiness information (MCAI) AD
states that analysis shows a ``dormant failure'' of one of the two
contactors, 53Ka or 53Kb, can occur following the introduction of
MOD 073254 or MOD 073773. Failure of a contactor can prevent
switching from ``IDLE'' mode to ``FLIGHT'' mode during autorotation
training making it impossible to recover from the practice
autorotation and compelling the pilot to continue the autorotation
to the ground. This condition, if not corrected, can lead to an
unintended touchdown to the ground at a flight-idle power setting
during a practice autorotation, damage to the helicopter, and injury
to the occupants.
Actions and Compliance
(e) Before the next practice autorotation or on or before 100
hours time-in-service (TIS), whichever occurs first, unless
accomplished previously, and thereafter at intervals not to exceed
600 hours TIS:
(1) Inspect for the proper operation of contactors 53Ka and 53Kb
by rotating the pilot and co-pilot throttle twist grip controls
between the ``IDLE'' and ``FLIGHT'' position in accordance with the
Accomplishment Instructions, paragraph 2.B.2, of Eurocopter Alert
Service Bulletin (ASB) No. 05.00.61, dated November 16, 2009, for
the Model AS350B3 helicopters or ASB No. 05A009, dated November 16,
2009, for the Model EC130 B4 helicopters, as appropriate for your
model helicopter.
(2) Test the pilot and co-pilot throttle twist grip controls for
proper functioning. If the throttle twist grip controls are not
functioning properly, repair the controls.
Differences Between This AD and the MCAI AD
(f) We refer to flight hours as hours TIS. Also, we refer to
maintenance actions as inspections rather than checks. Finally,
Other Information
(g) Alternative Methods of Compliance (AMOCs): The Manager,
Safety Management Group, ATTN: DOT/FAA Southwest Region, Ed Cuevas,
ASW-112, Aviation Safety Engineer, Rotorcraft Directorate, Safety
Management Group, 2601 Meacham Blvd., Fort Worth, Texas 76137,
telephone (817) 222-5355, fax (817) 222-5961, has the authority to
approve AMOCs for this AD, if requested, using the procedures found
in 14 CFR 39.19.
Related Information
(h) MCAI AD No. 2009-0256, dated December 2, 2009, contains
related information.
Joint Aircraft System/Component (JASC) Code
(i) The JASC Code is 7697: Engine Control System Wiring.
Material Incorporated by Reference
(j) You must use Eurocopter Alert Service Bulletin ASB No.
05.00.61 or 05A009, both dated November 16, 2009, to do the actions
required by this AD, unless the AD specifies otherwise.
(1) The Director of the Federal Register approved the
incorporation by reference of this service information under 5
U.S.C. 552(a) and 1 CFR part 51.
(2) For service information identified in this AD, contact
American Eurocopter Corporation, 2701 Forum Drive, Grand Prairie,
Texas 75053-4005, telephone (800) 232-0323, fax (972) 641-3710, or
at https://www.eurocopter.com.
(3) You may review copies at the FAA, Office of the Regional
Counsel, Southwest Region, 2601 Meacham Blvd., Room 663, Fort Worth,
Texas or at the National Archives and Records Administration (NARA).
For information on the availability of this material at NARA, call
(202) 741-6030, or go to: https://www.archives.gov/federal-register/cfr/ibr-locations.html.
Issued in Fort Worth, Texas, on September 29, 2010.
Kim Smith,
Manager, Rotorcraft Directorate, Aircraft Certification Service
[FR Doc. 2010-25270 Filed 10-13-10; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE 4910-13-P
