Airworthiness Directives; Eurocopter France (ECF) Model EC120B Helicopters, 53326-53328 [2011-21473]

Download as PDF 53326 Federal Register / Vol. 76, No. 166 / Friday, August 26, 2011 / Rules and Regulations mstockstill on DSK4VPTVN1PROD with RULES depicted in Figure 1 of Agusta Mandatory Alert Bollettino Tecnico (BT) No. 109K–53 for Model A109K2 helicopters, and Mandatory Alert BT No. 109–131 for Model A109A, A109A II, and A109C helicopters, both dated December 18, 2009. (b) If 2 washers are not installed under the head of each fixing bolt, within 25 hours TIS of complying with paragraph (a) of this AD, replace each fixing bolt and install 2 washers under the head of each fixing bolt as depicted in Figures 1 and 2, and by following the Compliance Instructions, Part II, paragraphs 1. through 3.5., of the BT for your helicopter. (c) 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, Safety Management Group, ATTN: DOT/FAA Southwest Region, Sharon Miles, Aviation Safety Engineer, Rotorcraft Directorate, ASW–111, 2601 Meacham Blvd., Fort Worth, Texas 76137, telephone (817) 222–5122, fax (817) 222–5961, for information about previously approved alternative methods of compliance. (d) The Joint Aircraft System/Component Code is 6220: Main Rotor Head. (e) The inspection and replacement shall be done in accordance with the specified portions of Agusta Mandatory Alert Bollettino Tecnico No. 109K–53 or Agusta Mandatory Alert Bollettino Tecnico No. 109– 131, both dated December 18, 2009. The Director of the Federal Register approved this incorporation by reference in accordance with 5 U.S.C. 552(a) and 1 CFR part 51. Copies may be obtained from Agusta Westland, Customer Support & Services, Via Per Tornavento 15, 21019 Somma Lombardo (VA) Italy, ATTN: Giovanni Cecchelli; telephone 39–0331–711133; fax 39 0331 711180; or at https:// www.agustawestland.com/technicalbullettins. Copies may be inspected 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/ code_of_federal_regulations/ ibr_locations.html. (f) This amendment becomes effective on September 12, 2011. Note: The subject of this AD is addressed in European Aviation Safety Agency (Italy) AD No. 2009–0274–E, dated December 18, 2009. Issued in Fort Worth, Texas, on July 29, 2011. Kim Smith, Manager, Rotorcraft Directorate, Aircraft Certification Service. [FR Doc. 2011–21476 Filed 8–25–11; 8:45 am] BILLING CODE 4910–13–P VerDate Mar<15>2010 15:41 Aug 25, 2011 Jkt 223001 DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION Federal Aviation Administration 14 CFR Part 39 [Docket No. FAA–2011–0859 ; Directorate Identifier 2010–SW–052–AD; Amendment 39–16777; AD 2011–17–13] RIN 2120–AA64 Airworthiness Directives; Eurocopter France (ECF) Model EC120B Helicopters Federal Aviation Administration, DOT. ACTION: Final rule; request for comments. AGENCY: This amendment adopts a new airworthiness directive (AD) for ECF Model EC120B helicopters. This action requires inserting an emergency procedure appendix from an ECF Emergency Alert Service Bulletin into the Rotorcraft Flight Manual (RFM). This action also requires modifying the emergency switch electrical wiring and performing tests to ensure correct operation of the emergency switch. This action also requires removing the emergency procedure appendix from the RFM after modifying the emergency switch electrical wiring and performing tests to ensure correct operation. This amendment is prompted by the discovery that simultaneously setting the emergency switch to the low position ‘‘CUT–OFF’’ and the generator (GENE) pushbutton to ‘‘OFF’’ position caused the starter-generator to restart. Investigation revealed that cross-wiring at the emergency switch caused this malfunction. This condition, if not corrected, could lead to the inability to isolate electrical equipment during an emergency, creating the risk of an uncontrolled electrical fire and subsequent loss of control of the helicopter. SUMMARY: Effective September 12, 2011. The incorporation by reference of certain publications listed in the regulations is approved by the Director of the Federal Register as of September 12, 2011. Comments for inclusion in the Rules Docket must be received on or before October 25, 2011. ADDRESSES: Use one of the following addresses to submit comments on this 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, DATES: PO 00000 Frm 00026 Fmt 4700 Sfmt 4700 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 AD from American Eurocopter Corporation, 2701 Forum Drive, Grand Prairie, TX 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 the AD, any comments, and other information on the Internet at https:// www.regulations.gov, or 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. FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: George Schwab, Aviation Safety Engineer, FAA, Rotorcraft Directorate, Safety Management Group, 2601 Meacham Blvd., Fort Worth, Texas 76137, telephone (817) 222–5114, fax (817) 222–5961. SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: Discussion The European Aviation Safety Agency (EASA), which is the Technical Agent for the Member States of the European Union, has issued EASA AD No. 2010– 0078–E, dated April 23, 2010, to correct an unsafe condition for the ECF Model EC120B helicopters. EASA advises that while conducting a ‘‘smoke in the cockpit’’ procedure, ECF found that setting the emergency switch to CUT– OFF and the GENE pushbutton to OFF at the same time caused the aircraft starter-generator to ‘‘cut-in again.’’ Technical investigations revealed that cross-wiring at the emergency switch caused the malfunction. In this configuration, the ‘‘smoke in the cockpit’’ procedure described in the RFM does not isolate the equipment electrical power supply. Related Service Information ECF has issued Emergency Alert Service Bulletin No. 24A012, dated April 22, 2010 (EASB), which specifies modifying the emergency switch E:\FR\FM\26AUR1.SGM 26AUR1 Federal Register / Vol. 76, No. 166 / Friday, August 26, 2011 / Rules and Regulations electrical wiring and testing the wiring for correct operation of the emergency switch. EASA classified this EASB as mandatory and issued AD No. 2010– 0078–E, dated April 23, 2010, to ensure the continued airworthiness of these helicopters. FAA’s Evaluation and Unsafe Condition Determination This helicopter has been approved by the aviation authority of France and is 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 MCAI 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 helicopters of the same type design. mstockstill on DSK4VPTVN1PROD with RULES Differences Between This AD and the EASA AD This AD uses ‘‘hours time-in-service,’’ and the EASA AD uses ‘‘flight hours.’’ FAA’s Determination and Requirements of This AD This unsafe condition is likely to exist or develop on other helicopters of the same type design. Therefore, this AD is being issued to correct the electrical wiring to allow the isolation of electrical equipment in the event of an emergency and to prevent an uncontrolled electrical fire and subsequent loss of control of the helicopter. This AD requires, before further flight, inserting the appendix from the EASB, paragraph 3.5., ‘‘SMOKE IN THE COCKPIT/ CARGO,’’ into the ‘‘Emergency Procedure’’ section of the RFM. This AD also requires within 15 hours TIS or 30 days, whichever occurs first, modifying the emergency switch electrical wiring by reversing the wires and ground testing the modified electrical wiring. Modifying the emergency switch wiring, obtaining successful ground test results indicating proper operation of the emergency switch, and removing the RFM emergency procedure inserted in compliance with this AD constitutes terminating action for the requirements of this AD. The short compliance time involved is required because the previously described critical unsafe condition can adversely affect the continued safe flight of the helicopter. Therefore, before further flight, inserting the emergency procedure appendix into the RFM from the EASB is required. Also, modifying the emergency switch electrical wiring, performing ground tests to confirm correct operation of the emergency VerDate Mar<15>2010 15:41 Aug 25, 2011 Jkt 223001 switch, and removing the emergency procedure appendix from the RFM are required within 15 hours TIS or 30 days, whichever occurs first, a short compliance time, and this AD must be issued immediately. Since a situation exists that requires the immediate adoption of this regulation, it is found that notice and opportunity for prior public comment hereon are impracticable, and that good cause exists for making this amendment effective in less than 30 days. Costs of Compliance We estimate that this AD will affect about 20 helicopters of U.S. registry. We also estimate that it will take about 1 work-hour per helicopter to modify the wiring and to do a ground test. The time required for inserting a page from the EASB into the RFM is minimal. The average labor rate is $85 per work-hour. The wiring will cost about $17 per helicopter. Based on these figures, we estimate the cost of this AD on U.S. operators will be $2,040 for the fleet or $102 per helicopter. Comments Invited This AD is a final rule that involves requirements affecting flight safety, and we did not precede it by notice and opportunity for public comment. We invite you to send any written relevant data, views, or arguments about this AD. Send your comments to an address listed under the ADDRESSES section. Include ‘‘Docket No. FAA–2011–0859; Directorate Identifier 2010–SW–052– AD’’ at the beginning of your comments. We specifically invite comments on the overall regulatory, economic, environmental, and energy aspects of this AD. We will consider all comments received by the closing date and may amend this AD because of those comments. We will post all comments we receive, without change, to https:// www.regulations.gov, including any personal information you provide. We will also post a report summarizing each substantive verbal contact with FAA personnel concerning this AD. 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 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). 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 PO 00000 Frm 00027 Fmt 4700 Sfmt 4700 53327 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, 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. Section 39.13 is amended by adding a new airworthiness directive to read as follows: ■ E:\FR\FM\26AUR1.SGM 26AUR1 mstockstill on DSK4VPTVN1PROD with RULES 53328 Federal Register / Vol. 76, No. 166 / Friday, August 26, 2011 / Rules and Regulations 2011–17–13 EUROCOPTER FRANCE: Amendment 39–16777; Docket No. FAA–2011–0859; Directorate Identifier 2010–SW–052–AD. Applicability: Model EC120B helicopters, serial number (S/N) 1500, 1511 through 1630, 1632, 1634, and 1636, certificated in any category. Compliance: Required as indicated, unless accomplished previously. To prevent nonisolation of electrical equipment creating the risk of an uncontrolled electrical fire, do the following: (a) Before further flight, insert the ‘‘Appendix’’ from the Eurocopter Emergency Alert Service Bulletin No. 24A012, dated April 22, 2010 (EASB), paragraph 3.5., ‘‘SMOKE IN THE COCKPIT/CARGO,’’ into the Emergency Procedure section of the Rotorcraft Flight Manual (RFM). After complying with paragraph (b) of this AD, remove the Appendix from the RFM. (b) Within 15 hours time-in-service (TIS) or 30 days, whichever occurs first, modify the emergency switch electrical wiring by reversing the wires as depicted in Figure 2 and by following the Accomplishment Instructions, paragraph 2.B.1 through 2.B.3, of the EASB. Ground test the modified electrical wiring by following the Accomplishment Instructions, paragraph 2.B.4, of the EASB. (c) Modifying the emergency switch wiring, obtaining successful ground test results indicating proper operation of the emergency switch, and removing the RFM emergency procedure inserted in complying with paragraph (a) of this AD constitutes terminating action for the requirements of this AD. (d) 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, Safety Management Group, ATTN: George Schwab, Aviation Safety Engineer, FAA, 2601 Meacham Blvd., Fort Worth, Texas 76137; telephone: (817–222–5114); fax: 817–222– 5961, for information about previously approved alternative methods of compliance. (e) The Joint Aircraft System/Component (JASC) Code is 2497: Electrical Power System Wiring. (f) Modify the electrical wiring and perform the ground tests by following specified portions of Eurocopter Emergency Alert Service Bulletin No. 24A012, dated April 22, 2010. The Director of the Federal Register approved this incorporation by reference in accordance with 5 U.S.C. 552(a) and 1 CFR part 51. Copies may be obtained from American Eurocopter Corporation, 2701 Forum Drive, Grand Prairie, TX 75053–4005, telephone (800) 232–0323, fax (972) 641– 3710, or at https://www.eurocopter.com. Copies may be inspected 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/ code_of_federal_regulations/ ibr_locations.html. (g) This amendment becomes effective on September 12, 2011. VerDate Mar<15>2010 15:41 Aug 25, 2011 Jkt 223001 Note: The subject of this AD is addressed in European Aviation Safety Agency AD No. 2010–0078–E, dated April 23, 2010. Issued in Fort Worth, Texas, on August 5, 2011. Kim Smith, Manager, Rotorcraft Directorate, Aircraft Certification Service. [FR Doc. 2011–21473 Filed 8–25–11; 8:45 am] BILLING CODE 4910–13–P DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION Federal Aviation Administration 14 CFR Part 71 [Docket No. FAA–2011–0855; Amendment No. 71–43] Airspace Designations; Incorporation by Reference Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), DOT. ACTION: Final rule. AGENCY: This action amends Title 14 Code of Federal Regulations (14 CFR) part 71 relating to airspace designations to reflect the approval by the Director of the Federal Register of the incorporation by reference of FAA Order 7400.9V, Airspace Designations and Reporting Points. This action also explains the procedures the FAA will use to amend the listings of Class A, B, C, D, and E airspace areas; air traffic service routes; and reporting points incorporated by reference. SUMMARY: These regulations are effective September 15, 2011, through September 15, 2012. The incorporation by reference of FAA Order 7400.9V is approved by the Director of the Federal Register as of September 15, 2011, through September 15, 2012. FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Sarah A. Combs, Airspace, Regulations and ATC Procedures Group, Office of Airspace Services, Federal Aviation Administration, 800 Independence Avenue, SW., Washington, DC 20591; telephone: (202) 267–8783. SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: DATES: History FAA Order 7400.9U, Airspace Designations and Reporting Points, effective September 15, 2010, listed Class A, B, C, D and E airspace areas; air traffic service routes; and reporting points. Due to the length of these descriptions, the FAA requested approval from the Office of the Federal Register to incorporate the material by reference in the Federal Aviation Regulations section 71.1, effective PO 00000 Frm 00028 Fmt 4700 Sfmt 4700 September 15, 2010, through September 15, 2011. During the incorporation by reference period, the FAA processed all proposed changes of the airspace listings in FAA Order 7400.9U in full text as proposed rule documents in the Federal Register. Likewise, all amendments of these listings were published in full text as final rules in the Federal Register. This rule reflects the periodic integration of these final rule amendments into a revised edition of Order 7400.9V, Airspace Designations and Reporting Points. The Director of the Federal Register has approved the incorporation by reference of FAA Order 7400.9V in section 71.1, as of September 15, 2011 through September 15, 2012. This rule also explains the procedures the FAA will use to amend the airspace designations incorporated by reference in part 71. Sections 71.5, 71.15, 71.31, 71.33, 71.41, 71.51, 71.61, 71.71, and 71.901 are also updated to reflect the incorporation by reference of FAA Order 7400.9V. The Rule This action amends Title 14 Code of Federal Regulations (14 CFR) part 71 to reflect the approval by the Director of the Federal Register of the incorporation by reference of FAA Order 7400.9V, effective September 15, 2011, through September 15, 2012. During the incorporation by reference period, the FAA will continue to process all proposed changes of the airspace listings in FAA Order 7400.9V in full text as proposed rule documents in the Federal Register. Likewise, all amendments of these listings will be published in full text as final rules in the Federal Register. The FAA will periodically integrate all final rule amendments into a revised edition of the Order, and submit the revised edition to the Director of the Federal Register for approval for incorporation by reference in section 71.1. The FAA has determined that this action: (1) Is not a ‘‘significant regulatory action’’ under Executive Order 12866; (2) is not a ‘‘significant rule’’ under DOT Regulatory Policies and Procedures (44 FR 11034; February 26, 1979); and (3) does not warrant preparation of a regulatory evaluation as the anticipated impact is so minimal. This action neither places any new restrictions or requirements on the public, nor changes the dimensions or operation requirements of the airspace listings incorporated by reference in part 71. List of Subjects in 14 CFR Part 71 Airspace, Incorporation by reference, Navigation (air). E:\FR\FM\26AUR1.SGM 26AUR1

Agencies

[Federal Register Volume 76, Number 166 (Friday, August 26, 2011)]
[Rules and Regulations]
[Pages 53326-53328]
From the Federal Register Online via the Government Printing Office [www.gpo.gov]
[FR Doc No: 2011-21473]


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

DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION

Federal Aviation Administration

14 CFR Part 39

[Docket No. FAA-2011-0859 ; Directorate Identifier 2010-SW-052-AD; 
Amendment 39-16777; AD 2011-17-13]
RIN 2120-AA64


Airworthiness Directives; Eurocopter France (ECF) Model EC120B 
Helicopters

AGENCY: Federal Aviation Administration, DOT.

ACTION: Final rule; request for comments.

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

SUMMARY: This amendment adopts a new airworthiness directive (AD) for 
ECF Model EC120B helicopters. This action requires inserting an 
emergency procedure appendix from an ECF Emergency Alert Service 
Bulletin into the Rotorcraft Flight Manual (RFM). This action also 
requires modifying the emergency switch electrical wiring and 
performing tests to ensure correct operation of the emergency switch. 
This action also requires removing the emergency procedure appendix 
from the RFM after modifying the emergency switch electrical wiring and 
performing tests to ensure correct operation. This amendment is 
prompted by the discovery that simultaneously setting the emergency 
switch to the low position ``CUT-OFF'' and the generator (GENE) 
pushbutton to ``OFF'' position caused the starter-generator to restart. 
Investigation revealed that cross-wiring at the emergency switch caused 
this malfunction. This condition, if not corrected, could lead to the 
inability to isolate electrical equipment during an emergency, creating 
the risk of an uncontrolled electrical fire and subsequent loss of 
control of the helicopter.

DATES: Effective September 12, 2011.
    The incorporation by reference of certain publications listed in 
the regulations is approved by the Director of the Federal Register as 
of September 12, 2011.
    Comments for inclusion in the Rules Docket must be received on or 
before October 25, 2011.

ADDRESSES: Use one of the following addresses to submit comments on 
this 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 AD from 
American Eurocopter Corporation, 2701 Forum Drive, Grand Prairie, TX 
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 the 
AD, any comments, and other information on the Internet at https://www.regulations.gov, or 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.

FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: George Schwab, Aviation Safety 
Engineer, FAA, Rotorcraft Directorate, Safety Management Group, 2601 
Meacham Blvd., Fort Worth, Texas 76137, telephone (817) 222-5114, fax 
(817) 222-5961.

SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: 

Discussion

    The European Aviation Safety Agency (EASA), which is the Technical 
Agent for the Member States of the European Union, has issued EASA AD 
No. 2010-0078-E, dated April 23, 2010, to correct an unsafe condition 
for the ECF Model EC120B helicopters. EASA advises that while 
conducting a ``smoke in the cockpit'' procedure, ECF found that setting 
the emergency switch to CUT-OFF and the GENE pushbutton to OFF at the 
same time caused the aircraft starter-generator to ``cut-in again.'' 
Technical investigations revealed that cross-wiring at the emergency 
switch caused the malfunction. In this configuration, the ``smoke in 
the cockpit'' procedure described in the RFM does not isolate the 
equipment electrical power supply.

Related Service Information

    ECF has issued Emergency Alert Service Bulletin No. 24A012, dated 
April 22, 2010 (EASB), which specifies modifying the emergency switch

[[Page 53327]]

electrical wiring and testing the wiring for correct operation of the 
emergency switch. EASA classified this EASB as mandatory and issued AD 
No. 2010-0078-E, dated April 23, 2010, to ensure the continued 
airworthiness of these helicopters.

FAA's Evaluation and Unsafe Condition Determination

    This helicopter has been approved by the aviation authority of 
France and is 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 MCAI 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 helicopters of the same type 
design.

Differences Between This AD and the EASA AD

    This AD uses ``hours time-in-service,'' and the EASA AD uses 
``flight hours.''

FAA's Determination and Requirements of This AD

    This unsafe condition is likely to exist or develop on other 
helicopters of the same type design. Therefore, this AD is being issued 
to correct the electrical wiring to allow the isolation of electrical 
equipment in the event of an emergency and to prevent an uncontrolled 
electrical fire and subsequent loss of control of the helicopter. This 
AD requires, before further flight, inserting the appendix from the 
EASB, paragraph 3.5., ``SMOKE IN THE COCKPIT/CARGO,'' into the 
``Emergency Procedure'' section of the RFM. This AD also requires 
within 15 hours TIS or 30 days, whichever occurs first, modifying the 
emergency switch electrical wiring by reversing the wires and ground 
testing the modified electrical wiring. Modifying the emergency switch 
wiring, obtaining successful ground test results indicating proper 
operation of the emergency switch, and removing the RFM emergency 
procedure inserted in compliance with this AD constitutes terminating 
action for the requirements of this AD.
    The short compliance time involved is required because the 
previously described critical unsafe condition can adversely affect the 
continued safe flight of the helicopter. Therefore, before further 
flight, inserting the emergency procedure appendix into the RFM from 
the EASB is required. Also, modifying the emergency switch electrical 
wiring, performing ground tests to confirm correct operation of the 
emergency switch, and removing the emergency procedure appendix from 
the RFM are required within 15 hours TIS or 30 days, whichever occurs 
first, a short compliance time, and this AD must be issued immediately.
    Since a situation exists that requires the immediate adoption of 
this regulation, it is found that notice and opportunity for prior 
public comment hereon are impracticable, and that good cause exists for 
making this amendment effective in less than 30 days.

Costs of Compliance

    We estimate that this AD will affect about 20 helicopters of U.S. 
registry. We also estimate that it will take about 1 work-hour per 
helicopter to modify the wiring and to do a ground test. The time 
required for inserting a page from the EASB into the RFM is minimal. 
The average labor rate is $85 per work-hour. The wiring will cost about 
$17 per helicopter. Based on these figures, we estimate the cost of 
this AD on U.S. operators will be $2,040 for the fleet or $102 per 
helicopter.

Comments Invited

    This AD is a final rule that involves requirements affecting flight 
safety, and we did not precede it by notice and opportunity for public 
comment. We invite you to send any written relevant data, views, or 
arguments about this AD. Send your comments to an address listed under 
the ADDRESSES section. Include ``Docket No. FAA-2011-0859; Directorate 
Identifier 2010-SW-052-AD'' at the beginning of your comments. We 
specifically invite comments on the overall regulatory, economic, 
environmental, and energy aspects of this AD. We will consider all 
comments received by the closing date and may amend this AD because of 
those comments.
    We will post all comments we receive, without change, to https://www.regulations.gov, including any personal information you provide. We 
will also post a report summarizing each substantive verbal contact 
with FAA personnel concerning this AD. 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 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).

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, under the authority delegated to me by the 
Administrator, the FAA amends 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. Section 39.13 is amended by adding a new airworthiness directive to 
read as follows:


[[Page 53328]]


2011-17-13 EUROCOPTER FRANCE: Amendment 39-16777; Docket No. FAA-
2011-0859; Directorate Identifier 2010-SW-052-AD.

    Applicability: Model EC120B helicopters, serial number (S/N) 
1500, 1511 through 1630, 1632, 1634, and 1636, certificated in any 
category.
    Compliance: Required as indicated, unless accomplished 
previously.
    To prevent nonisolation of electrical equipment creating the 
risk of an uncontrolled electrical fire, do the following:
    (a) Before further flight, insert the ``Appendix'' from the 
Eurocopter Emergency Alert Service Bulletin No. 24A012, dated April 
22, 2010 (EASB), paragraph 3.5., ``SMOKE IN THE COCKPIT/CARGO,'' 
into the Emergency Procedure section of the Rotorcraft Flight Manual 
(RFM). After complying with paragraph (b) of this AD, remove the 
Appendix from the RFM.
    (b) Within 15 hours time-in-service (TIS) or 30 days, whichever 
occurs first, modify the emergency switch electrical wiring by 
reversing the wires as depicted in Figure 2 and by following the 
Accomplishment Instructions, paragraph 2.B.1 through 2.B.3, of the 
EASB. Ground test the modified electrical wiring by following the 
Accomplishment Instructions, paragraph 2.B.4, of the EASB.
    (c) Modifying the emergency switch wiring, obtaining successful 
ground test results indicating proper operation of the emergency 
switch, and removing the RFM emergency procedure inserted in 
complying with paragraph (a) of this AD constitutes terminating 
action for the requirements of this AD.
    (d) 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, Safety Management Group, ATTN: George Schwab, 
Aviation Safety Engineer, FAA, 2601 Meacham Blvd., Fort Worth, Texas 
76137; telephone: (817-222-5114); fax: 817-222-5961, for information 
about previously approved alternative methods of compliance.
    (e) The Joint Aircraft System/Component (JASC) Code is 2497: 
Electrical Power System Wiring.
    (f) Modify the electrical wiring and perform the ground tests by 
following specified portions of Eurocopter Emergency Alert Service 
Bulletin No. 24A012, dated April 22, 2010. The Director of the 
Federal Register approved this incorporation by reference in 
accordance with 5 U.S.C. 552(a) and 1 CFR part 51. Copies may be 
obtained from American Eurocopter Corporation, 2701 Forum Drive, 
Grand Prairie, TX 75053-4005, telephone (800) 232-0323, fax (972) 
641-3710, or at https://www.eurocopter.com. Copies may be inspected 
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/code_of_federal_regulations/ibr_locations.html.
    (g) This amendment becomes effective on September 12, 2011.

    Note:  The subject of this AD is addressed in European Aviation 
Safety Agency AD No. 2010-0078-E, dated April 23, 2010.


    Issued in Fort Worth, Texas, on August 5, 2011.
Kim Smith,
Manager, Rotorcraft Directorate, Aircraft Certification Service.
[FR Doc. 2011-21473 Filed 8-25-11; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE 4910-13-P
This site is protected by reCAPTCHA and the Google Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply.