Airworthiness Directives; MD Helicopters, Inc. (MDHI) Model MD900 Helicopters, 2607-2609 [2011-726]

Download as PDF Federal Register / Vol. 76, No. 10 / Friday, January 14, 2011 / Proposed Rules 2607 TABLE 1—INITIAL INSPECTION THRESHOLDS—Continued Appendix number of RR ASB No. RB.211– 72–AG244, Revision 1, that identifies affected LP compressor blades by S/N 3B ................................................................... 3C ................................................................... 3D ................................................................... 3E ................................................................... 3F ................................................................... (2) Thereafter, perform repetitive UIs of the affected LP compressor blades within every 100 flight cycles. (3) Use paragraph 3 of Accomplishment Instructions of RR ASB No. RB.211–72– AG244, Revision 1, dated January 26, 2010, and Appendix 1 of that ASB to perform the UIs. (4) Remove blades from service before further flight that fail the inspection criteria in Appendix 1 of RR ASB No. RB.211–72– AG244, Revision 1, dated January 26, 2010. (5) After the effective date of this AD, do not install any affected LP compressor blade unless it has passed the initial and repetitive UIs required by this AD. FAA AD Differences Initial inspection threshold Blades shown in RR ASB No. RB.211–72–AG244, Revision 1 as fitted to engine serial number (ESN) 51039—802 flight cycles after the effective date of this AD. ESNs 51146, 51177, 51145, and 51149—380 flight cycles after the effective date of this AD. Blades shown in RR ASB No. RB.211–72–AG244, Revision 1 as fitted to ESNs 51001, 51137 and blade S/N RGG16694—1,680 flight cycles after the effective date of this AD. ESN 51145, 51149, 51150 and 51204—796 flight cycles after the effective date of this AD. ESN 51160—1,160 flight cycles after the effective date of this AD. Blades shown in RR ASB No. ASB RB.211–72–AG244, Revision 1 as fitted to ESN 51193 and blade S/N RGG20216—1,212 flight cycles after the effective date of this AD. ESN 51200—1,237 flight cycles after the effective date of this AD. ESN 51280—1,551 flight cycles after the effective date of this AD. Blades shown in RR ASB No. RB.211–72–AG244, Revision 1 as fitted to ESN 51004, ‘‘na’’ and blade S/Ns RGG12590, RGG14081, and RGG15419—3,433 flight cycles after the effective date of this AD. ESN 51156—1,627 flight cycles after the effective date of this AD. Blades shown in RR ASB No. RB.211–72–AG244, Revision 1 as fitted to ESN 51175, 51194, 51201, 51205, and 51228—2,042 flight cycles after the effective date of this AD. ESN 51264—4,309 flight cycles after the effective date of this AD. ESN 51443—2,636 flight cycles after the effective date of this AD. Blade S/N RGG15698—2,638 flight cycles after the effective date of this AD. Issued in Burlington, Massachusetts, on January 10, 2011. Peter A. White, Acting Manager, Engine and Propeller Directorate, Aircraft Certification Service. [FR Doc. 2011–775 Filed 1–13–11; 8:45 am] BILLING CODE 4910–13–P DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION Federal Aviation Administration 14 CFR Part 39 [Docket No. FAA–2010–1301; Directorate Identifier 2010–SW–008–AD] (f) This AD differs from MCAI European Aviation safety Agency (EASA) AD 2010– 0097, dated May 26, 2010. The EASA AD uses calendar dates for initial inspection thresholds. This AD uses flight cycles. RIN 2120–AA64 Alternative Methods of Compliance AGENCY: Airworthiness Directives; MD Helicopters, Inc. (MDHI) Model MD900 Helicopters Federal Aviation Administration, DOT. ACTION: Notice of proposed rulemaking (NPRM). (g) The Manager, Engine Certification Office, FAA, has the authority to approve AMOCs for this AD, if requested using the procedures found in 14 CFR 39.19. mstockstill on DSKH9S0YB1PROD with PROPOSALS (h) Refer to EASA AD 2010–0097, dated May 26, 2010, and RR Alert SB No. RB.211– 72–AG244, Revision 1, dated January 26, 2010, for related information. Contact RollsRoyce plc, P.O. Box 31, DERBY, DE24 8BJ, UK; telephone 44 (0) 1332 242424; fax 44 (0) 1332 249936, for a copy of this service information. (i) Contact Alan Strom, Aerospace Engineer, Engine Certification Office, FAA, Engine & Propeller Directorate, 12 New England Executive Park, Burlington, MA 01803; e-mail: alan.strom@faa.gov; telephone (781) 238–7143; fax (781) 238–7199. VerDate Mar<15>2010 16:43 Jan 13, 2011 Jkt 223001 This document proposes superseding an existing airworthiness directive (AD) for MDHI Model MD900 helicopters. That AD currently requires turning on both Vertical Stabilizer Control System (VSCS) switches and turning off the autopilot (AP/SAS) switch; pulling certain AP/SAS circuit breakers; installing a placard near the AP/SAS master switch; installing an airspeed limitation placard on the instrument panel; and making changes to the Rotorcraft Flight Manual (RFM). This action would retain those requirements and would provide an SUMMARY: Related Information PO 00000 Frm 00003 Fmt 4702 Sfmt 4702 option of replacing each affected tube adapter with a newly-designed tube adapter, which would provide terminating action for the unsafe condition. This proposal is prompted by the manufacturer introducing an improved, newly-designed tube adapter. The actions specified by this AD are intended to prevent loss of yaw control and subsequent loss of control of the helicopter. DATES: Comments must be received on or before March 15, 2011. ADDRESSES: Use one of the following addresses to submit comments on this proposed AD: • Federal eRulemaking Portal: Go to https://www.regulations.gov. Follow the instructions for submitting comments. • Fax: 202–493–2251. • Mail: U.S. Department of Transportation, Docket Operations, M– 30, West Building Ground Floor, Room W12–140, 1200 New Jersey Avenue, SE., Washington, DC 20590. • Hand Delivery: U.S. Department of Transportation, Docket Operations, M– 30, West Building Ground Floor, Room W12–140, 1200 New Jersey Avenue, SE., Washington, DC 20590, between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m., Monday through Friday, except Federal holidays. You may get the service information identified in this proposed AD from MD Helicopters, Inc., Attn: Customer Support Division, 4555 E. McDowell Rd., Mail Stop M615, Mesa, AZ 85215– 9734, telephone 1–800–388–3378, fax 480–346–6813, or at https:// www.mdhelicopters.com. You may examine the comments to this proposed AD in the AD docket on E:\FR\FM\14JAP1.SGM 14JAP1 2608 Federal Register / Vol. 76, No. 10 / Friday, January 14, 2011 / Proposed Rules the Internet at https:// www.regulations.gov. Eric D. Schrieber, FAA, Los Angeles Aircraft Certification Office, Aviation Safety Engineer, Airframe Branch, 3960 Paramount Blvd., Lakewood, California 90712, telephone 562–627–5348, fax 562–627–5210. SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Comments Invited We invite you to submit any written data, views, or arguments regarding this proposed AD. Send your comments to the address listed under the caption ADDRESSES. Include the docket number ‘‘FAA–2010–1301, Directorate Identifier 2010–SW–008–AD’’ at the beginning of your comments. We specifically invite comments on the overall regulatory, economic, environmental, and energy aspects of the proposed AD. We will consider all comments received by the closing date and may amend the proposed AD in light of those comments. We will post all comments we receive, without change, to https:// www.regulations.gov, including any personal information you provide. We will also post a report summarizing each substantive verbal contact with FAA personnel concerning this proposed rulemaking. Using the search function of the docket web site, you can find and read the comments to any of our dockets, including the name of the individual who sent or signed the comment. You may review the DOT’s complete Privacy Act Statement in the Federal Register published on April 11, 2000 (65 FR 19477–78). Examining the Docket mstockstill on DSKH9S0YB1PROD with PROPOSALS You may examine the docket that contains the proposed AD, any comments, and other information in person at the Docket Operations office between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m., Monday through Friday, except Federal holidays. The Docket Operations office (telephone (800) 647–5527) is located in Room W12–140 on the ground floor of the West Building at the street address stated in the ADDRESSES section. Comments will be available in the AD docket shortly after receipt. Discussion On August 20, 2008, we issued Emergency AD (EAD) 2008–18–51, Directorate Identifier 2008–SW–50–AD, for Model 500N, 600N, and MD900 helicopters. That EAD required several actions related to the Yaw Stability Augmentation System (YSAS) for the Model 500N and 600N helicopters and VerDate Mar<15>2010 16:43 Jan 13, 2011 Jkt 223001 to the VSCS for the Model MD900 helicopters. We issued superseding EAD 2008–18– 52, Directorate Identifier 2008–SW–52– AD, on August 27, 2008. That EAD required, for Model 500N, 600N and MD900 helicopters, turning OFF the VSCS or YSAS switches instead of pulling the circuit breakers and installing placards that limit airspeed to 100 KIAS or VNE, whichever is less. For the Model MD900 helicopters, the EAD also required limiting flight to VFR, prohibiting use of the autopilot, and making changes to the RFM. For all helicopters, the EAD required a terminating action of replacing each tube adapter with an airworthy tube adapter stamped with a date stamp of August 15, 2008, or later. After issuing EAD 2008–18–52, the replacement tube adapter failed on 2 of the Model MD900 helicopters. Therefore, we separated the AD actions and issued two superseding EADs: 2008–22–52 for the Model 500N and 600N helicopters and 2008–22–53 for the Model MD900 helicopters. Those EADS were published in the Federal Register as final rules; request for comments. AD 2008–22–52 (73 FR 72326) was published on November 28, 2008. AD 2008–22–53 (73 FR 73165) was published on December 2, 2008. AD 2008–22–53 does not include specific serial numbers in the applicability section because the unsafe condition can occur on any helicopter with an affected tube adapter installed. The AD also requires turning ON both VSCS switches to reduce pilot workload and to help control the helicopter if a tube adapter fails under normal flight conditions until the helicopter is on final approach. Also, AD 2008–22–53 did not include a terminating action because the manufacturer had not determined the cause of the failures. Since issuing AD 2008–22–53, the manufacturer has designed a VSCS tube adapter to replace the existing tube adapter. Installing the newly designed tube adapter is optional but, if installed, would constitute terminating action for the requirements of this AD. We have reviewed MDHI Service Bulletin No. SB900–110R1, dated December 3, 2008 (SB), which specifies replacing each VSCS tube adapter, part number (P/N) 500N7218–1, with an improved tube adapter, P/N 900C2010303–101, to prevent an uncommanded yaw of the helicopter. The SB specifies operating at a decreased speed until the newly designed tube adapters are installed. This previously described unsafe condition is likely to exist or develop on other helicopters of this same type PO 00000 Frm 00004 Fmt 4702 Sfmt 4702 design. Therefore, the proposed AD would supersede AD 2008–22–53, retain the current requirements, and require continuing to operate at a reduced speed until you replace each tube adapter with an improved tube adapter. We estimate that this proposed AD would affect 39 helicopters of U.S. registry. It would take about 5.5 hours to install the newly designed tube adapters and 0.5 hours for all other required modifications at an average labor rate of $85 per work hour. Required parts would cost about $244 for 2 tube adapters. Based on these figures, we estimate the total cost impact of the proposed AD on U.S. operators to be $29,406, assuming both tube adapters are replaced on the entire fleet of helicopters. Regulatory Findings We have determined that this proposed AD would not have federalism implications under Executive Order 13132. Additionally, this proposed AD would not have a substantial direct effect on the States, on the relationship between the national Government and the States, or on the distribution of power and responsibilities among the various levels of government. For the reasons discussed above, I certify that the proposed regulation: 1. Is not a ‘‘significant regulatory action’’ under Executive Order 12866; 2. Is not a ‘‘significant rule’’ under the DOT Regulatory Policies and Procedures (44 FR 11034, February 26, 1979); and 3. Will not have a significant economic impact, positive or negative, on a substantial number of small entities under the criteria of the Regulatory Flexibility Act. We prepared a draft economic evaluation of the estimated costs to comply with this proposed AD. See the AD docket to examine the draft 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 E:\FR\FM\14JAP1.SGM 14JAP1 Federal Register / Vol. 76, No. 10 / Friday, January 14, 2011 / Proposed Rules 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, Safety. The Proposed Amendment Accordingly, pursuant to the authority delegated to me by the Administrator, the Federal Aviation Administration proposes to amend part 39 of the Federal Aviation Regulations (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] mstockstill on DSKH9S0YB1PROD with PROPOSALS 2. Section 39.13 is amended by removing Amendment 39–15756 (73 FR 73165, December 2, 2008), and by adding a new airworthiness directive (AD), to read as follows: MD Helicopters, Inc.: Docket No. FAA–2010– 1301; Directorate Identifier 2010–SW– 008–AD. Supersedes AD 2008–22–53, Amendment 39–15756, Docket No. FAA–2008–1251, Directorate ID 2008– SW–61–AD. Applicability: Model MD900 helicopters with a Vertical Stabilizer Control System (VSCS) tube adapter, part number (P/N) 500N7218–1, installed, certificated in any category. Compliance: Required before further flight, unless done previously. To prevent loss of yaw control and subsequent loss of control of the helicopter, do the following: (a) Turn ON both VSCS switches. (b) If installed, de-energize the autopilot (AP/SAS) as follows: (1) Determine if the AP/SAS trim actuators are centered. If the AP/SAS trim actuators are not centered, center them. (2) After the AP/SAS trim actuators are centered: (i) Turn the AP/SAS MSTR switch to the OFF position. (ii) Pull the following AP circuit breakers located on the A601 Essential Bus Circuit Breaker Panel, mounted in the cockpit console, and install a plastic cable tie on each circuit breaker to prevent accidental energizing of the circuit: (A) AP/SAS CMPTR (CB28), (B) AP/SAS DISC (CB29), and (C) AP/SAS ACCEL (CB30). (3) Install a placard next to the AP Mode Select panel that contains the AP/SAS MSTR switch stating ‘‘AP/SAS DEACTIVATED.’’ (c) Install a placard on the instrument panel as close as practicable to the airspeed indicator that states: VerDate Mar<15>2010 16:43 Jan 13, 2011 Jkt 223001 ‘‘AIRSPEED LIMIT 100 KIAS or VNE, WHICHEVER IS LESS. VFR FLIGHT ONLY, AUTOPILOT OFF.’’ (d) Make pen and ink changes or insert a copy of this AD into the Limitations section of the rotorcraft flight manual (RFM) to revise the limitations as follows: ‘‘VNE is limited to 100 KIAS or less as determined by referring to the airspeed VNE placard already installed on the helicopter. VFR Flight Only, Autopilot OFF.’’ (e) Make pen and ink changes or insert a copy of this AD into the Limitations section of the RFM to revise the emergency procedures as follows: ‘‘If you experience an anti-torque system malfunction, turn both VSCS switches to OFF during final approach for a run-on landing.’’ (f) Instead of complying with paragraphs (a) through (e) of this AD, you may replace both VSCS tube adapters, P/N 500N7218–1, with airworthy VSCS tube adapters, P/N 900C2010303–101. If you install VSCS tube adapters, P/N 900C2010303–101, and previously have complied with AD 2008–22– 53, return the helicopter to its normal configuration by returning the switches and circuit breakers to their normal operating position, operationally testing the auto-pilot system, removing the two placards, and removing the revisions to the RFM pertaining to the airspeed limitation. Replacing both VSCS tube adapters, P/N 500N7218–1, with airworthy VSCS tube adapters, P/N 900C2010303–101, and returning the helicopter to its normal operating configuration constitutes terminating action for the requirements of this AD. Note: MD Helicopters Service Bulletin SB900–110R1, dated December 3, 2008, which is not incorporated by reference containing additional information about the subject of this AD. (g) To request a different method of compliance or a different compliance time for this AD, follow the procedures in 14 CFR 39.19. Contact the Manager, Los Angeles Aircraft Certification Office, FAA, Attn: Eric D. Schrieber, Aviation Safety Engineer, Airframe Branch, 3960 Paramount Blvd., Lakewood, California 90712, telephone 562– 627–5348, fax 562–627–5210, for information about previously approved alternative methods of compliance. (h) Copies of the applicable service information may be obtained from MD Helicopters, Inc., Attn: Customer Support Division, 4555 E. McDowell Rd., Mail Stop M615, Mesa, Arizona 85215–9734, telephone 1–800–388–3378, fax 480–346–6813, or on the Web at https://www.mdhelicopters.com. (i) The Joint Aircraft System/Component (JASC) Code is 6720: Tail Rotor Control System. Issued in Fort Worth, Texas, on December 28, 2010. Stefany James, Acting Manager, Rotorcraft Directorate, Aircraft Certification Service. [FR Doc. 2011–726 Filed 1–13–11; 8:45 am] BILLING CODE 4910–13–P PO 00000 Frm 00005 Fmt 4702 Sfmt 4702 2609 DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION Federal Aviation Administration 14 CFR Part 71 [Docket No. FAA–2010–1246; Airspace Docket No. 10–ANM–17] Proposed Amendment of Class E Airspace; Pueblo, CO Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), DOT. ACTION: Notice of proposed rulemaking (NPRM). AGENCY: This action proposes to amend Class E airspace at Pueblo Memorial Airport, Pueblo, CO. Additional controlled airspace is necessary to facilitate vectoring of Instrument Flight Rules (IFR) traffic from en route airspace to Pueblo Memorial Airport. The FAA is proposing this action to enhance the safety and management of aircraft operations at the airport. DATES: Comments must be received on or before February 28, 2011. ADDRESSES: Send comments on this proposal to the U.S. Department of Transportation, Docket Operations, M– 30, West Building Ground Floor, Room W12–140, 1200 New Jersey Avenue, SE., Washington, DC 20590; telephone (202) 366–9826. You must identify FAA Docket No. FAA–2010–1246; Airspace Docket No. 10–ANM–17, at the beginning of your comments. You may also submit comments through the Internet at https://www.regulations.gov. FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Eldon Taylor, Federal Aviation Administration, Operations Support Group, Western Service Center, 1601 Lind Avenue, SW., Renton, WA 98057; telephone (425) 203–4537. SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: SUMMARY: Comments Invited Interested parties are invited to participate in this proposed rulemaking by submitting such written data, views, or arguments, as they may desire. Comments that provide the factual basis supporting the views and suggestions presented are particularly helpful in developing reasoned regulatory decisions on the proposal. Comments are specifically invited on the overall regulatory, aeronautical, economic, environmental, and energy-related aspects of the proposal. Communications should identify both docket numbers (FAA Docket No. FAA 2010–1246 and Airspace Docket No. 10– ANM–17) and be submitted in triplicate to the Docket Management System (see E:\FR\FM\14JAP1.SGM 14JAP1

Agencies

[Federal Register Volume 76, Number 10 (Friday, January 14, 2011)]
[Proposed Rules]
[Pages 2607-2609]
From the Federal Register Online via the Government Printing Office [www.gpo.gov]
[FR Doc No: 2011-726]


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

DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION

Federal Aviation Administration

14 CFR Part 39

[Docket No. FAA-2010-1301; Directorate Identifier 2010-SW-008-AD]
RIN 2120-AA64


Airworthiness Directives; MD Helicopters, Inc. (MDHI) Model MD900 
Helicopters

AGENCY: Federal Aviation Administration, DOT.

ACTION: Notice of proposed rulemaking (NPRM).

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

SUMMARY: This document proposes superseding an existing airworthiness 
directive (AD) for MDHI Model MD900 helicopters. That AD currently 
requires turning on both Vertical Stabilizer Control System (VSCS) 
switches and turning off the autopilot (AP/SAS) switch; pulling certain 
AP/SAS circuit breakers; installing a placard near the AP/SAS master 
switch; installing an airspeed limitation placard on the instrument 
panel; and making changes to the Rotorcraft Flight Manual (RFM). This 
action would retain those requirements and would provide an option of 
replacing each affected tube adapter with a newly-designed tube 
adapter, which would provide terminating action for the unsafe 
condition. This proposal is prompted by the manufacturer introducing an 
improved, newly-designed tube adapter. The actions specified by this AD 
are intended to prevent loss of yaw control and subsequent loss of 
control of the helicopter.

DATES: Comments must be received on or before March 15, 2011.

ADDRESSES: Use one of the following addresses to submit comments on 
this proposed AD:
     Federal eRulemaking Portal: Go to https://www.regulations.gov. Follow the instructions for submitting comments.
     Fax: 202-493-2251.
     Mail: U.S. Department of Transportation, Docket 
Operations, M-30, West Building Ground Floor, Room W12-140, 1200 New 
Jersey Avenue, SE., Washington, DC 20590.
     Hand Delivery: U.S. Department of Transportation, Docket 
Operations, M-30, West Building Ground Floor, Room W12-140, 1200 New 
Jersey Avenue, SE., Washington, DC 20590, between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m., 
Monday through Friday, except Federal holidays.
    You may get the service information identified in this proposed AD 
from MD Helicopters, Inc., Attn: Customer Support Division, 4555 E. 
McDowell Rd., Mail Stop M615, Mesa, AZ 85215-9734, telephone 1-800-388-
3378, fax 480-346-6813, or at https://www.mdhelicopters.com.
    You may examine the comments to this proposed AD in the AD docket 
on

[[Page 2608]]

the Internet at https://www.regulations.gov.

FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Eric D. Schrieber, FAA, Los Angeles 
Aircraft Certification Office, Aviation Safety Engineer, Airframe 
Branch, 3960 Paramount Blvd., Lakewood, California 90712, telephone 
562-627-5348, fax 562-627-5210.

SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION:

Comments Invited

    We invite you to submit any written data, views, or arguments 
regarding this proposed AD. Send your comments to the address listed 
under the caption ADDRESSES. Include the docket number ``FAA-2010-1301, 
Directorate Identifier 2010-SW-008-AD'' at the beginning of your 
comments. We specifically invite comments on the overall regulatory, 
economic, environmental, and energy aspects of the proposed AD. We will 
consider all comments received by the closing date and may amend the 
proposed AD in light of those comments.
    We will post all comments we receive, without change, to https://www.regulations.gov, including any personal information you provide. We 
will also post a report summarizing each substantive verbal contact 
with FAA personnel concerning this proposed rulemaking. Using the 
search function of the docket web site, you can find and read the 
comments to any of our dockets, including the name of the individual 
who sent or signed the comment. You may review the DOT's complete 
Privacy Act Statement in the Federal Register published on April 11, 
2000 (65 FR 19477-78).

Examining the Docket

    You may examine the docket that contains the proposed AD, any 
comments, and other information in person at the Docket Operations 
office between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m., Monday through Friday, except Federal 
holidays. The Docket Operations office (telephone (800) 647-5527) is 
located in Room W12-140 on the ground floor of the West Building at the 
street address stated in the ADDRESSES section. Comments will be 
available in the AD docket shortly after receipt.

Discussion

    On August 20, 2008, we issued Emergency AD (EAD) 2008-18-51, 
Directorate Identifier 2008-SW-50-AD, for Model 500N, 600N, and MD900 
helicopters. That EAD required several actions related to the Yaw 
Stability Augmentation System (YSAS) for the Model 500N and 600N 
helicopters and to the VSCS for the Model MD900 helicopters.
    We issued superseding EAD 2008-18-52, Directorate Identifier 2008-
SW-52-AD, on August 27, 2008. That EAD required, for Model 500N, 600N 
and MD900 helicopters, turning OFF the VSCS or YSAS switches instead of 
pulling the circuit breakers and installing placards that limit 
airspeed to 100 KIAS or VNE, whichever is less. For the 
Model MD900 helicopters, the EAD also required limiting flight to VFR, 
prohibiting use of the autopilot, and making changes to the RFM. For 
all helicopters, the EAD required a terminating action of replacing 
each tube adapter with an airworthy tube adapter stamped with a date 
stamp of August 15, 2008, or later.
    After issuing EAD 2008-18-52, the replacement tube adapter failed 
on 2 of the Model MD900 helicopters. Therefore, we separated the AD 
actions and issued two superseding EADs: 2008-22-52 for the Model 500N 
and 600N helicopters and 2008-22-53 for the Model MD900 helicopters. 
Those EADS were published in the Federal Register as final rules; 
request for comments. AD 2008-22-52 (73 FR 72326) was published on 
November 28, 2008. AD 2008-22-53 (73 FR 73165) was published on 
December 2, 2008.
    AD 2008-22-53 does not include specific serial numbers in the 
applicability section because the unsafe condition can occur on any 
helicopter with an affected tube adapter installed. The AD also 
requires turning ON both VSCS switches to reduce pilot workload and to 
help control the helicopter if a tube adapter fails under normal flight 
conditions until the helicopter is on final approach. Also, AD 2008-22-
53 did not include a terminating action because the manufacturer had 
not determined the cause of the failures.
    Since issuing AD 2008-22-53, the manufacturer has designed a VSCS 
tube adapter to replace the existing tube adapter. Installing the newly 
designed tube adapter is optional but, if installed, would constitute 
terminating action for the requirements of this AD.
    We have reviewed MDHI Service Bulletin No. SB900-110R1, dated 
December 3, 2008 (SB), which specifies replacing each VSCS tube 
adapter, part number (P/N) 500N7218-1, with an improved tube adapter, 
P/N 900C2010303-101, to prevent an uncommanded yaw of the helicopter. 
The SB specifies operating at a decreased speed until the newly 
designed tube adapters are installed.
    This previously described unsafe condition is likely to exist or 
develop on other helicopters of this same type design. Therefore, the 
proposed AD would supersede AD 2008-22-53, retain the current 
requirements, and require continuing to operate at a reduced speed 
until you replace each tube adapter with an improved tube adapter.
    We estimate that this proposed AD would affect 39 helicopters of 
U.S. registry. It would take about 5.5 hours to install the newly 
designed tube adapters and 0.5 hours for all other required 
modifications at an average labor rate of $85 per work hour. Required 
parts would cost about $244 for 2 tube adapters. Based on these 
figures, we estimate the total cost impact of the proposed AD on U.S. 
operators to be $29,406, assuming both tube adapters are replaced on 
the entire fleet of helicopters.

Regulatory Findings

    We have determined that this proposed AD would not have federalism 
implications under Executive Order 13132. Additionally, this proposed 
AD would not have a substantial direct effect on the States, on the 
relationship between the national Government and the States, or on the 
distribution of power and responsibilities among the various levels of 
government.
    For the reasons discussed above, I certify that the proposed 
regulation:
    1. Is not a ``significant regulatory action'' under Executive Order 
12866;
    2. Is not a ``significant rule'' under the DOT Regulatory Policies 
and Procedures (44 FR 11034, February 26, 1979); and
    3. Will not have a significant economic impact, positive or 
negative, on a substantial number of small entities under the criteria 
of the Regulatory Flexibility Act.
    We prepared a draft economic evaluation of the estimated costs to 
comply with this proposed AD. See the AD docket to examine the draft 
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

[[Page 2609]]

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, Safety.

The Proposed Amendment

    Accordingly, pursuant to the authority delegated to me by the 
Administrator, the Federal Aviation Administration proposes to amend 
part 39 of the Federal Aviation Regulations (14 CFR part 39) as 
follows:

PART 39--AIRWORTHINESS DIRECTIVES

    1. The authority citation for part 39 continues to read as follows:

    Authority:  49 U.S.C. 106(g), 40113, 44701.


Sec.  39.13  [Amended]

    2. Section 39.13 is amended by removing Amendment 39-15756 (73 FR 
73165, December 2, 2008), and by adding a new airworthiness directive 
(AD), to read as follows:

MD Helicopters, Inc.: Docket No. FAA-2010-1301; Directorate 
Identifier 2010-SW-008-AD. Supersedes AD 2008-22-53, Amendment 39-
15756, Docket No. FAA-2008-1251, Directorate ID 2008-SW-61-AD.
    Applicability: Model MD900 helicopters with a Vertical 
Stabilizer Control System (VSCS) tube adapter, part number (P/N) 
500N7218-1, installed, certificated in any category.
    Compliance: Required before further flight, unless done 
previously.
    To prevent loss of yaw control and subsequent loss of control of 
the helicopter, do the following:
    (a) Turn ON both VSCS switches.
    (b) If installed, de-energize the autopilot (AP/SAS) as follows:
    (1) Determine if the AP/SAS trim actuators are centered. If the 
AP/SAS trim actuators are not centered, center them.
    (2) After the AP/SAS trim actuators are centered:
    (i) Turn the AP/SAS MSTR switch to the OFF position.
    (ii) Pull the following AP circuit breakers located on the A601 
Essential Bus Circuit Breaker Panel, mounted in the cockpit console, 
and install a plastic cable tie on each circuit breaker to prevent 
accidental energizing of the circuit:
    (A) AP/SAS CMPTR (CB28),
    (B) AP/SAS DISC (CB29), and
    (C) AP/SAS ACCEL (CB30).
    (3) Install a placard next to the AP Mode Select panel that 
contains the AP/SAS MSTR switch stating ``AP/SAS DEACTIVATED.''
    (c) Install a placard on the instrument panel as close as 
practicable to the airspeed indicator that states:
    ``AIRSPEED LIMIT 100 KIAS or VNE, WHICHEVER IS LESS. 
VFR FLIGHT ONLY, AUTOPILOT OFF.''
    (d) Make pen and ink changes or insert a copy of this AD into 
the Limitations section of the rotorcraft flight manual (RFM) to 
revise the limitations as follows: ``VNE is limited to 
100 KIAS or less as determined by referring to the airspeed 
VNE placard already installed on the helicopter. VFR 
Flight Only, Autopilot OFF.''
    (e) Make pen and ink changes or insert a copy of this AD into 
the Limitations section of the RFM to revise the emergency 
procedures as follows: ``If you experience an anti-torque system 
malfunction, turn both VSCS switches to OFF during final approach 
for a run-on landing.''
    (f) Instead of complying with paragraphs (a) through (e) of this 
AD, you may replace both VSCS tube adapters, P/N 500N7218-1, with 
airworthy VSCS tube adapters, P/N 900C2010303-101. If you install 
VSCS tube adapters, P/N 900C2010303-101, and previously have 
complied with AD 2008-22-53, return the helicopter to its normal 
configuration by returning the switches and circuit breakers to 
their normal operating position, operationally testing the auto-
pilot system, removing the two placards, and removing the revisions 
to the RFM pertaining to the airspeed limitation. Replacing both 
VSCS tube adapters, P/N 500N7218-1, with airworthy VSCS tube 
adapters, P/N 900C2010303-101, and returning the helicopter to its 
normal operating configuration constitutes terminating action for 
the requirements of this AD.

    Note:  MD Helicopters Service Bulletin SB900-110R1, dated 
December 3, 2008, which is not incorporated by reference containing 
additional information about the subject of this AD.

    (g) To request a different method of compliance or a different 
compliance time for this AD, follow the procedures in 14 CFR 39.19. 
Contact the Manager, Los Angeles Aircraft Certification Office, FAA, 
Attn: Eric D. Schrieber, Aviation Safety Engineer, Airframe Branch, 
3960 Paramount Blvd., Lakewood, California 90712, telephone 562-627-
5348, fax 562-627-5210, for information about previously approved 
alternative methods of compliance.
    (h) Copies of the applicable service information may be obtained 
from MD Helicopters, Inc., Attn: Customer Support Division, 4555 E. 
McDowell Rd., Mail Stop M615, Mesa, Arizona 85215-9734, telephone 1-
800-388-3378, fax 480-346-6813, or on the Web at https://www.mdhelicopters.com.
    (i) The Joint Aircraft System/Component (JASC) Code is 6720: 
Tail Rotor Control System.

    Issued in Fort Worth, Texas, on December 28, 2010.
Stefany James,
Acting Manager, Rotorcraft Directorate, Aircraft Certification Service.
[FR Doc. 2011-726 Filed 1-13-11; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE 4910-13-P
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