Airworthiness Directives; PILATUS AIRCRAFT LTD. Airplanes, 42225-42228 [2012-17103]

Download as PDF 42225 Federal Register / Vol. 77, No. 138 / Wednesday, July 18, 2012 / Proposed Rules Administrator (13 CFR 121.903). The Regulatory Flexibility Act authorizes an agency to establish an alternative small business definition after consultation with the Office of Advocacy of the U.S. Small Business Administration (5 U.S.C. 601(3)). 5. What alternatives will allow the Agency to accomplish its regulatory objectives while minimizing the impact on small entities? By law, SBA is required to develop numerical size standards for establishing eligibility for Federal small business assistance programs. Other than varying size standards by industry and changing the size measures, no NAICS Codes practical alternative exists to the systems of numerical size standards. Authority: 15 U.S.C. 632, 634(b)(6), 636(b), 662, and 694a(9). List of Subjects in 13 CFR Part 121 Administrative practice and procedure, Government procurement, Government property, Grant programs— business, Individuals with disabilities, Loan programs—business, Reporting and recordkeeping requirements, Small businesses. For the reasons set forth in the preamble, SBA proposes to amend part 13 CFR part 121 as follows: 2. In § 121.201, in the table, revise the entries for ‘‘711110’’, ‘‘711120’’, ‘‘711130’’, ‘‘711190’’, ‘‘711211’’, ‘‘711212’’, ‘‘711219’’, ‘‘711310’’, ‘‘711320’’, ‘‘711410’’, ‘‘712110’’, ‘‘712130’’, ‘‘713110’’, ‘‘713210’’, ‘‘713290’’, ‘‘713910’’, and ‘‘713920’’ to read as follows: PART 121—SMALL BUSINESS SIZE REGULATIONS * 1. The authority citation for part 121 continues to read as follows: § 121.201 What size standards has SBA identified by North American Industry Classification System codes? * * * Small Business Size Standards by NAICS Industry Size standards in millions of dollars NAICS U.S. Industry title * ............. ............. ............. ............. ............. ............. ............. ............. ............. ............. * * * * Theater Companies and Dinner Theaters ....................................................................... Dance Companies ............................................................................................................ Musical Groups and Artists .............................................................................................. Other Performing Arts Companies ................................................................................... Sports Teams and Clubs ................................................................................................. Race Tracks ..................................................................................................................... Other Spectator Sports .................................................................................................... Promoters of Performing Arts, Sports and Similar Events with Facilities ....................... Promoters of Performing Arts, Sports and Similar Events without Facilities .................. Agents and Managers for Artists, Athletes, Entertainers and Other Public Figures ....... * * 712110 ............. * * * * Museums .......................................................................................................................... * * 712130 ............. * * * * Zoos and Botanical Gardens ........................................................................................... * * 713110 ............. * * * * Amusement and Theme Parks ........................................................................................ * * ............. ............. ............. ............. * * * * Casinos (except Casino Hotels) ...................................................................................... Other Gambling Industries ............................................................................................... Golf Courses and Country Clubs ..................................................................................... Skiing Facilities ................................................................................................................ * 711110 711120 711130 711190 711211 711212 711219 711310 711320 711410 713210 713290 713910 713920 * * * Dated: February 28, 2012. Karen G. Mills, Administrator. * * DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION [Docket No. FAA–2012–0732; Directorate Identifier 2012–CE–022–AD] RIN 2120–AA64 Airworthiness Directives; PILATUS AIRCRAFT LTD. Airplanes Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), Department of Transportation (DOT). AGENCY: 17:18 Jul 17, 2012 * $19.0 10.0 10.0 25.5 35.5 35.5 10.0 30.0 14.0 10.0 * 25.5 * 25.5 * 35.5 * 25.5 30.0 14.0 25.5 * * Notice of proposed rulemaking (NPRM). ACTION: Jkt 226001 PO 00000 Frm 00031 Fmt 4702 We propose to adopt a new airworthiness directive (AD) for all PILATUS AIRCRAFT LTD. Models PC 12, PC 12/45, PC 12/47, and PC 12/47E airplanes that would supersede an existing AD. This proposed AD results from mandatory continuing airworthiness information (MCAI) originated by an aviation authority of another country to identify and correct an unsafe condition on an aviation product. The MCAI describes the unsafe condition as a need to incorporate new SUMMARY: 14 CFR Part 39 BILLING CODE 8025–01–P VerDate Mar<15>2010 Size standards in number of employees Federal Aviation Administration [FR Doc. 2012–17442 Filed 7–17–12; 8:45 am] srobinson on DSK4SPTVN1PROD with PROPOSALS * Sfmt 4702 E:\FR\FM\18JYP1.SGM 18JYP1 42226 Federal Register / Vol. 77, No. 138 / Wednesday, July 18, 2012 / Proposed Rules srobinson on DSK4SPTVN1PROD with PROPOSALS revisions into the Limitations section, Chapter 4, of the FAA-approved maintenance program (e.g., maintenance manual). The limitations were revised to include an inspection of the wing main spar fastener holes at rib 6 for cracks. We are issuing this proposed AD to require actions to address the unsafe condition on these products. DATES: We must receive comments on this proposed AD by September 4, 2012. ADDRESSES: You may send comments by any of the following methods: • Federal eRulemaking Portal: Go to https://www.regulations.gov. Follow the instructions for submitting comments. • Fax: (202) 493–2251. • Mail: U.S. Department of Transportation, Docket Operations, M–30, West Building Ground Floor, Room W12–140, 1200 New Jersey Avenue SE., Washington, DC 20590. • Hand Delivery: U.S. Department of Transportation, Docket Operations, M–30, West Building Ground Floor, Room W12–140, 1200 New Jersey Avenue SE., Washington, DC 20590, between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m., Monday through Friday, except Federal holidays. For service information identified in this proposed AD, contact PILATUS AIRCRAFT LTD., Customer Service Manager, CH 6371 STANS, Switzerland; telephone: +41 (0)41 619 62 08; fax: +41 (0)41 619 73 11; Internet: https:// www.pilatus_aircraft.com or email: SupportPC12@pilatus_ aircraft.com. You may review copies of the referenced service information at the FAA, Small Airplane Directorate, 901 Locust, Kansas City, Missouri 64106. For information on the availability of this material at the FAA, call (816) 329– 4148. Examining the AD Docket You may examine the AD docket on the Internet at https:// www.regulations.gov; or in person at the Docket Management Facility between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m., Monday through Friday, except Federal holidays. The AD docket contains this proposed AD, the regulatory evaluation, any comments received, and other information. The street address for the Docket Office (telephone (800) 647–5527) is in the ADDRESSES section. Comments will be available in the AD docket shortly after receipt. FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Doug Rudolph, Aerospace Engineer, FAA, Small Airplane Directorate, 901 Locust, Room 301, Kansas City, Missouri 64106; telephone: (816) 329 4059; fax: (816) 329 4090; email: doug.rudolph@faa.gov. SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: VerDate Mar<15>2010 17:18 Jul 17, 2012 Jkt 226001 Comments Invited We invite you to send any written relevant data, views, or arguments about this proposed AD. Send your comments to an address listed under the ADDRESSES section. Include ‘‘Docket No. FAA–2012–0732; Directorate Identifier 2012–CE–022–AD’’ at the beginning of your comments. We specifically invite comments on the overall regulatory, economic, environmental, and energy aspects of this proposed AD. We will consider all comments received by the closing date and may amend this proposed AD because of those comments. We will post all comments we receive, without change, to https:// www.regulations.gov, including any personal information you provide. We will also post a report summarizing each substantive verbal contact we receive about this proposed AD. Discussion On July 1, 2009, we issued AD 2009– 14–13, Amendment 39–15963 (74 FR 34213, July 15, 2009). That AD required actions intended to address an unsafe condition on the products listed above. Since we issued AD 2009–14–13, Amendment 39–15963 (74 FR 34213, July 15, 2009), Pilatus Aircraft Ltd. has issued revisions to the Limitations section of the airplane maintenance manual to include an inspection of the wing main spar fastener holes at rib 6 for cracks. The European Aviation Safety Agency (EASA), which is the Technical Agent for the Member States of the European Community, has issued AD No. 2012– 0099, dated June 8, 2012 (referred to after this as ‘‘the MCAI’’), to correct an unsafe condition for the specified products. The MCAI states: The mandatory instructions and airworthiness limitations applicable to the Structure and Components of the PC–12 are specified in the Aircraft Maintenance Manual (AMM) under Chapter 4. Prompted by a crack found on one wing of the aeroplane fleet leader, a more restrictive airworthiness limitation was introduced, in that manual, for the inspection of the main spar rib 6 strap fastener. These documents include the maintenance instructions and/or airworthiness limitations developed by Pilatus Aircraft Ltd. and approved by EASA. Failure to comply with these instructions and limitations could potentially lead to unsafe condition. For the reasons described above, this AD requires the implementation of more restrictive maintenance instructions and/or airworthiness limitations. You PO 00000 Frm 00032 Fmt 4702 Sfmt 4702 may obtain further information by examining the MCAI in the AD docket. Relevant Service Information Pilatus Aircraft Ltd. has issued Structural and Component Limitations—Airworthiness Limitations, document 12 B 04 00 00 00A 000A A, dated January 27, 2012; and Structural, Component and Miscellaneous— Airworthiness Limitations, document 12 A 04 00 00 00A 000A A, dated January 27, 2012. The actions described in this service information are intended to correct the unsafe condition identified in the MCAI. FAA’s Determination and Requirements of the Proposed AD This product has been approved by the aviation authority of another country, and is approved for operation in the United States. Pursuant to our bilateral agreement with this State of Design Authority, they have notified us of the unsafe condition described in the MCAI and service information referenced above. We are proposing this AD because we evaluated all information and determined the unsafe condition exists and is likely to exist or develop on other products of the same type design. Costs of Compliance We estimate that this proposed AD would affect 678 products of U.S. registry. We also estimate that it would take about 3.5 work hours per product to comply with the basic requirements of this AD. The average labor rate is $85 per work hour. Required parts would cost about $300 per product. Based on these figures, we estimate the cost of this proposed AD on U.S. operators to be $405,105, or $597.50 per product. In addition, we estimate that any necessary follow on actions would take about 6 work hours and require parts costing $4,000, for a cost of $4,510 per product. We have no way of determining the number of products that may need these actions. We also estimate that it would take about 12 work hours per product to comply with the addition of the wing inspection requirements of this proposed AD. The average labor rate is $85 per work hour. Based on these figures, we estimate the cost of the proposed wing inspection on U.S. operators to be $691,560, or $1,020 per product. In addition, we estimate that any necessary follow-on actions would take about 7 work-hours and require parts costing approximately $5,000, for a cost of $5,595 per product. We have no way of determining the number of products that may need these actions. E:\FR\FM\18JYP1.SGM 18JYP1 Federal Register / Vol. 77, No. 138 / Wednesday, July 18, 2012 / Proposed Rules Authority for This Rulemaking Title 49 of the United States Code specifies the FAA’s authority to issue rules on aviation safety. Subtitle I, section 106, describes the authority of the FAA Administrator. ‘‘Subtitle VII: Aviation Programs,’’ describes in more detail the scope of the Agency’s authority. We are issuing this rulemaking under the authority described in ‘‘Subtitle VII, Part A, Subpart III, Section 44701: General requirements.’’ Under that section, Congress charges the FAA with promoting safe flight of civil aircraft in air commerce by prescribing regulations for practices, methods, and procedures the Administrator finds necessary for safety in air commerce. This regulation is within the scope of that authority because it addresses an unsafe condition that is likely to exist or develop on products identified in this rulemaking action. Regulatory Findings We determined that this proposed AD would not have federalism implications under Executive Order 13132. This proposed AD would not have a substantial direct effect on the States, on the relationship between the national Government and the States, or on the distribution of power and responsibilities among the various levels of government. For the reasons discussed above, I certify this proposed regulation: (1) Is not a ‘‘significant regulatory action’’ under Executive Order 12866, (2) Is not a ‘‘significant rule’’ under the DOT Regulatory Policies and Procedures (44 FR 11034, February 26, 1979), (3) Will not affect intrastate aviation in Alaska, and (4) 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. srobinson on DSK4SPTVN1PROD with PROPOSALS List of Subjects in 14 CFR Part 39 Air transportation, Aircraft, Aviation safety, Incorporation by reference, Safety. The Proposed Amendment Accordingly, under the authority delegated to me by the Administrator, the FAA proposes to amend 14 CFR part 39 as follows: PART 39—AIRWORTHINESS DIRECTIVES 1. The authority citation for part 39 continues to read as follows: Authority: 49 U.S.C. 106(g), 40113, 44701. VerDate Mar<15>2010 17:18 Jul 17, 2012 Jkt 226001 § 39.13 [Amended] 2. The FAA amends § 39.13 by removing Amendment 39–15963 (74 FR 34213, July 15, 2009), and adding the following new AD: PILATUS AIRCRAFT LTD.: Docket No. FAA–2012–0732; Directorate Identifier 2012–CE–022–AD. (a) Comments Due Date We must receive comments by September 4, 2012. (b) Affected ADs This AD supersedes AD 2009–14–13, Amendment 39–15963 (74 FR 34213, July 15, 2009). (c) Applicability This AD applies to Pilatus Aircraft LTD. Models PC 12, PC 12/45, PC 12/47, and PC– 12/47E airplanes, all manufacturer serial numbers (MSNs), certificated in any category. (d) Subject Air Transport Association of America (ATA) Code 05: Time Limits. (e) Reason This AD was prompted by 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 a need to incorporate new revisions into the Limitations section, Chapter 4, of the FAAapproved maintenance program (e.g., maintenance manual). The limitations were revised to include an inspection of the wing main spar fastener holes at rib 6 for cracks. These actions are required to ensure the continued operational safety of the affected airplanes. (f) Actions and Compliance Unless already done, do the following actions: (1) For Models PC 12 and PC 12/45 airplanes, MSNs 101 through 299: Within the next 100 hours time in service (TIS) after August 19, 2009 (the effective date retained from AD 2009–14–13, Amendment 39–15963 (74 FR 34213, July 15, 2009)) or 1 year after August 19, 2009 (the effective date retained from AD 2009–14–13), whichever occurs first, replace the torque tube P/N 532.50.12.047 with torque tube P/N 532.50.12.064 following PILATUS AIRCRAFT LTD. Service Bulletin No: 32 021, dated November 21, 2008. (2) For all airplanes: As of the effective date of this AD, do not install torque tube P/ N 532.50.12.047. (3) For all airplanes: Before further flight after the effective date of this AD, insert Structural, Component and Miscellaneous— Airworthiness Limitations, document 12 A 04 00 00 00A 000A A, dated January 27, 2012 (for Models PC 12, PC 12/45, PC 12/47), and Structural and Component Limitations— Airworthiness Limitations, document 12 B 04 00 00 00A 000A A, dated January 27, 2012 (for Model PC 12/47E), into the Limitations section of the FAA approved maintenance program (e.g., maintenance manual). The PO 00000 Frm 00033 Fmt 4702 Sfmt 4702 42227 limitations section revision does the following: (i) Establishes an inspection of the wing main spar fastener holes at rib 6, (ii) Specifies replacement of components before or upon reaching the applicable life limit, and (iii) Specifies accomplishment of all applicable maintenance tasks within certain thresholds and intervals. (4) For all airplanes: If no compliance time is specified in the documents listed in paragraph (f)(3) of this AD when doing any corrective actions where discrepancies are found as required in paragraph (f)(3)(iii) of this AD, do these corrective actions before further flight after doing the applicable maintenance task. (5) For all airplanes: During the accomplishment of the actions required in paragraphs (f)(3)(i), (f)(3)(ii), and (f)(3)(iii) of this AD, if a discrepancy is found that is not identified in the documents listed in paragraph (f)(3) of this AD, before further flight after finding the discrepancy, contact Pilatus Aircraft Ltd. at the address specified in paragraph (h) of this AD for a repair scheme and incorporate that repair scheme. Note 1 to paragraph (f)(3) of this AD: Structural, Component and Miscellaneous— Airworthiness Limitations, document 12 A 04 00 00 00A 000A A, dated January 27, 2012 (for Models PC 12, PC 12/45, PC 12/47) is part of Chapter 4 of the Airplane Maintenance Manual (AMM) report 02049, issue 25, dated January 25, 2012. Note 2 to paragraph (f)(3) of this AD: Structural and Component Limitations— Airworthiness Limitations, document 12 B 04 00 00 00A 000A A, dated January 27, 2012 (for Model PC 12/47E) is part of Chapter 4 of the AMM report 02300, issue 8, dated January 25, 2012. (g) Other FAA AD Provisions The following provisions also apply to this AD: (1) Alternative Methods of Compliance (AMOCs): The Manager, Standards Office, FAA, has the authority to approve AMOCs for this AD, if requested using the procedures found in 14 CFR 39.19. Send information to ATTN: Doug Rudolph, Aerospace Engineer, FAA, Small Airplane Directorate, 901 Locust, Room 301, Kansas City, Missouri 64106; telephone: (816) 329 4059; fax: (816) 329 4090; email: doug.rudolph@faa.gov. (i) Before using any approved AMOC on any airplane to which the AMOC applies, notify your appropriate principal inspector (PI) in the FAA Flight Standards District Office (FSDO), or lacking a PI, your local FSDO. (ii) AMOCs approved for AD 2009–14–13, Amendment 39–15963 (74 FR 34213, July 15, 2009) are not approved as AMOCs for this AD. (2) Airworthy Product: For any requirement in this AD to obtain corrective actions from a manufacturer or other source, use these actions if they are FAA-approved. Corrective actions are considered FAA-approved if they are approved by the State of Design Authority (or their delegated agent). You are required to assure the product is airworthy before it is returned to service. E:\FR\FM\18JYP1.SGM 18JYP1 42228 Federal Register / Vol. 77, No. 138 / Wednesday, July 18, 2012 / Proposed Rules (3) Reporting Requirements: For any reporting requirement in this AD, a federal agency may not conduct or sponsor, and a person is not required to respond to, nor shall a person be subject to a penalty for failure to comply with a collection of information subject to the requirements of the Paperwork Reduction Act unless that collection of information displays a current valid OMB Control Number. The OMB Control Number for this information collection is 2120–0056. Public reporting for this collection of information is estimated to be approximately 5 minutes per response, including the time for reviewing instructions, completing and reviewing the collection of information. All responses to this collection of information are mandatory. Comments concerning the accuracy of this burden and suggestions for reducing the burden should be directed to the FAA at: 800 Independence Ave. SW., Washington, DC 20591, Attn: Information Collection Clearance Officer, AES–200. (h) Related Information Refer to MCAI European Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) AD No. 2012–0099, dated June 8, 2012; Structural and Component Limitations—Airworthiness Limitations, document 12 B 04 00 00 00A 000A A, dated January 27, 2012; Structural, Component and Miscellaneous—Airworthiness Limitations, document 12 A 04 00 00 00A 000A A, dated January 27, 2012; and PILATUS AIRCRAFT LTD. Service Bulletin No: 32 021, dated November 21, 2008, for related information. For service information related to this AD, contact PILATUS AIRCRAFT LTD., Customer Service Manager, CH 6371 STANS, Switzerland; telephone: +41 (0)41 619 62 08; fax: +41 (0)41 619 73 11; Internet: https://www.pilatus_aircraft.com or email: SupportPC12@pilatus_aircraft.com. You may review copies of the referenced service information at the FAA, Small Airplane Directorate, 901 Locust, Kansas City, Missouri 64106. For information on the availability of this material at the FAA, call (816) 329–4148. Issued in Kansas City, Missouri, on July 5, 2012. Earl Lawrence, Manager, Small Airplane Directorate, Aircraft Certification Service. [FR Doc. 2012–17103 Filed 7–17–12; 8:45 am] BILLING CODE 4910–13–P DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION Federal Aviation Administration srobinson on DSK4SPTVN1PROD with PROPOSALS 14 CFR Part 71 [Docket No. FAA–2012–0341; Airspace Docket No. 12–AEA–4] Proposed Amendment of Class E Airspace; Wilkes-Barre, PA Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), DOT. ACTION: Notice of proposed rulemaking (NPRM). AGENCY: VerDate Mar<15>2010 17:18 Jul 17, 2012 Jkt 226001 This action proposes to amend Class E Airspace at Wilkes-Barre, PA, creating controlled airspace to accommodate new Standard Instrument Approach Procedures at Wilkes-Barre Wyoming Valley Airport. This action would enhance the safety and airspace management of Instrument Flight Rules (IFR) operations at the airport. This action would also recognize the name change of Hanover Township Fire Station #5 Heliport. DATES: Comments must be received on or before September 4, 2012. ADDRESSES: Send comments on this rule to: U. S. Department of Transportation, Docket Operations, West Building Ground Floor, Room W12–140, 1200 New Jersey SE., Washington, DC 20590– 0001; Telephone: 1–800–647–5527; Fax: 202–493–2251. You must identify the Docket Number FAA–2012–0341; Airspace Docket No. 12–AEA–4, at the beginning of your comments. You may also submit and review received comments through the Internet at https://www.regulations.gov. FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: John Fornito, Operations Support Group, Eastern Service Center, Federal Aviation Administration, P.O. Box 20636, Atlanta, Georgia 30320; telephone (404) 305–6364. SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: SUMMARY: Comments Invited Interested persons are invited to comment on this rule 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– 2011–0341; Airspace Docket No. 12– AEA–4) and be submitted in triplicate to the Docket Management System (see ADDRESSES section for address and phone number). You may also submit comments through the Internet at https://www.regulations.gov. Persons wishing the FAA to acknowledge receipt of their comments on this action must submit with those comments a self-addressed stamped postcard on which the following statement is made: ‘‘Comments to Docket No. FAA–2012–0341; Airspace Docket No. 12–AEA–4.’’ The postcard will be date/time stamped and returned to the commenter. PO 00000 Frm 00034 Fmt 4702 Sfmt 4702 All communications received before the specified closing date for comments will be considered before taking action on the proposed rule. The proposal contained in this notice may be changed in light of the comments received. A report summarizing each substantive public contact with FAA personnel concerned with this rulemaking will be filed in the docket. Availability of NPRMs An electronic copy of this document may be downloaded from and comments submitted through https:// www.regulations.gov. Recently published rulemaking documents can also be accessed through the FAA’s Web page at https://www.faa.gov/ airports_airtraffic/air_traffic/ publications/airspace_amendments/. You may review the public docket containing the proposal, any comments received and any final disposition in person in the Dockets Office (see the ADDRESSES section for address and phone number) between 9:00 a.m. and 5:00 p.m., Monday through Friday, except Federal holidays. An informal docket may also be examined during normal business hours at the office of the Eastern Service Center, Federal Aviation Administration, room 210, 1701 Columbia Avenue, College Park, Georgia 30337. Persons interested in being placed on a mailing list for future NPRM’s should contact the FAA’s Office of Rulemaking, (202) 267–9677, to request a copy of Advisory circular No. 11–2A, Notice of Proposed Rulemaking distribution System, which describes the application procedure. The Proposal The FAA is considering an amendment to Title 14, Code of Federal Regulations (14 CFR) part 71 to amend Class E airspace at Wilkes-Barre, PA providing the controlled airspace required to support the new RNAV GPS standard instrument approach procedures for Wilkes-Barre Wyoming Valley Airport. Controlled airspace extending upward from 700 feet above the surface would be created for the safety and management of IFR operations at the airport. Also, the heliport formerly known as Fire Station Helipad at Mercy Hospital would be changed to Hanover Township Fire Station #5 Heliport. Class E airspace designations are published in Paragraph 6005 of FAA Order 7400.9V, dated August 9, 2011, and effective September 15, 2011, which is incorporated by reference in 14 CFR 71.1. The Class E airspace designation E:\FR\FM\18JYP1.SGM 18JYP1

Agencies

[Federal Register Volume 77, Number 138 (Wednesday, July 18, 2012)]
[Proposed Rules]
[Pages 42225-42228]
From the Federal Register Online via the Government Printing Office [www.gpo.gov]
[FR Doc No: 2012-17103]


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DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION

Federal Aviation Administration

14 CFR Part 39

[Docket No. FAA-2012-0732; Directorate Identifier 2012-CE-022-AD]
RIN 2120-AA64


Airworthiness Directives; PILATUS AIRCRAFT LTD. Airplanes

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

ACTION: Notice of proposed rulemaking (NPRM).

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

SUMMARY: We propose to adopt a new airworthiness directive (AD) for all 
PILATUS AIRCRAFT LTD. Models PC 12, PC 12/45, PC 12/47, and PC 12/47E 
airplanes that would supersede an existing AD. This proposed AD results 
from mandatory continuing airworthiness information (MCAI) originated 
by an aviation authority of another country to identify and correct an 
unsafe condition on an aviation product. The MCAI describes the unsafe 
condition as a need to incorporate new

[[Page 42226]]

revisions into the Limitations section, Chapter 4, of the FAA-approved 
maintenance program (e.g., maintenance manual). The limitations were 
revised to include an inspection of the wing main spar fastener holes 
at rib 6 for cracks. We are issuing this proposed AD to require actions 
to address the unsafe condition on these products.

DATES: We must receive comments on this proposed AD by September 4, 
2012.

ADDRESSES: You may send comments by any of the following methods:
     Federal eRulemaking Portal: Go to https://www.regulations.gov. Follow the instructions for submitting comments.
     Fax: (202) 493-2251.
     Mail: U.S. Department of Transportation, Docket 
Operations, M-30, West Building Ground Floor, Room W12-140, 1200 New 
Jersey Avenue SE., Washington, DC 20590.
     Hand Delivery: U.S. Department of Transportation, Docket 
Operations, M-30, West Building Ground Floor, Room W12-140, 1200 New 
Jersey Avenue SE., Washington, DC 20590, between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m., 
Monday through Friday, except Federal holidays.
    For service information identified in this proposed AD, contact 
PILATUS AIRCRAFT LTD., Customer Service Manager, CH 6371 STANS, 
Switzerland; telephone: +41 (0)41 619 62 08; fax: +41 (0)41 619 73 11; 
Internet: https://www.pilatus_aircraft.com or email: 
SupportPC12@pilatus-- aircraft.com. You may review copies of the 
referenced service information at the FAA, Small Airplane Directorate, 
901 Locust, Kansas City, Missouri 64106. For information on the 
availability of this material at the FAA, call (816) 329-4148.

Examining the AD Docket

    You may examine the AD docket on the Internet at https://www.regulations.gov; or in person at the Docket Management Facility 
between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m., Monday through Friday, except Federal 
holidays. The AD docket contains this proposed AD, the regulatory 
evaluation, any comments received, and other information. The street 
address for the Docket Office (telephone (800) 647-5527) is in the 
ADDRESSES section. Comments will be available in the AD docket shortly 
after receipt.

FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Doug Rudolph, Aerospace Engineer, FAA, 
Small Airplane Directorate, 901 Locust, Room 301, Kansas City, Missouri 
64106; telephone: (816) 329 4059; fax: (816) 329 4090; email: 
doug.rudolph@faa.gov.

SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: 

Comments Invited

    We invite you to send any written relevant data, views, or 
arguments about this proposed AD. Send your comments to an address 
listed under the ADDRESSES section. Include ``Docket No. FAA-2012-0732; 
Directorate Identifier 2012-CE-022-AD'' at the beginning of your 
comments. We specifically invite comments on the overall regulatory, 
economic, environmental, and energy aspects of this proposed AD. We 
will consider all comments received by the closing date and may amend 
this proposed AD because of those comments.
    We will post all comments we receive, without change, to https://www.regulations.gov, including any personal information you provide. We 
will also post a report summarizing each substantive verbal contact we 
receive about this proposed AD.

Discussion

    On July 1, 2009, we issued AD 2009-14-13, Amendment 39-15963 (74 FR 
34213, July 15, 2009). That AD required actions intended to address an 
unsafe condition on the products listed above.
    Since we issued AD 2009-14-13, Amendment 39-15963 (74 FR 34213, 
July 15, 2009), Pilatus Aircraft Ltd. has issued revisions to the 
Limitations section of the airplane maintenance manual to include an 
inspection of the wing main spar fastener holes at rib 6 for cracks.
    The European Aviation Safety Agency (EASA), which is the Technical 
Agent for the Member States of the European Community, has issued AD 
No. 2012-0099, dated June 8, 2012 (referred to after this as ``the 
MCAI''), to correct an unsafe condition for the specified products. The 
MCAI states:
    The mandatory instructions and airworthiness limitations applicable 
to the Structure and Components of the PC-12 are specified in the 
Aircraft Maintenance Manual (AMM) under Chapter 4. Prompted by a crack 
found on one wing of the aeroplane fleet leader, a more restrictive 
airworthiness limitation was introduced, in that manual, for the 
inspection of the main spar rib 6 strap fastener.
    These documents include the maintenance instructions and/or 
airworthiness limitations developed by Pilatus Aircraft Ltd. and 
approved by EASA. Failure to comply with these instructions and 
limitations could potentially lead to unsafe condition.
    For the reasons described above, this AD requires the 
implementation of more restrictive maintenance instructions and/or 
airworthiness limitations. You may obtain further information by 
examining the MCAI in the AD docket.

Relevant Service Information

    Pilatus Aircraft Ltd. has issued Structural and Component 
Limitations--Airworthiness Limitations, document 12 B 04 00 00 00A 000A 
A, dated January 27, 2012; and Structural, Component and 
Miscellaneous--Airworthiness Limitations, document 12 A 04 00 00 00A 
000A A, dated January 27, 2012. The actions described in this service 
information are intended to correct the unsafe condition identified in 
the MCAI.

FAA's Determination and Requirements of the Proposed AD

    This product has been approved by the aviation authority of another 
country, and is approved for operation in the United States. Pursuant 
to our bilateral agreement with this State of Design Authority, they 
have notified us of the unsafe condition described in the MCAI and 
service information referenced above. We are proposing this AD because 
we evaluated all information and determined the unsafe condition exists 
and is likely to exist or develop on other products of the same type 
design.

Costs of Compliance

    We estimate that this proposed AD would affect 678 products of U.S. 
registry. We also estimate that it would take about 3.5 work hours per 
product to comply with the basic requirements of this AD. The average 
labor rate is $85 per work hour. Required parts would cost about $300 
per product. Based on these figures, we estimate the cost of this 
proposed AD on U.S. operators to be $405,105, or $597.50 per product.
    In addition, we estimate that any necessary follow on actions would 
take about 6 work hours and require parts costing $4,000, for a cost of 
$4,510 per product. We have no way of determining the number of 
products that may need these actions. We also estimate that it would 
take about 12 work hours per product to comply with the addition of the 
wing inspection requirements of this proposed AD. The average labor 
rate is $85 per work hour.
    Based on these figures, we estimate the cost of the proposed wing 
inspection on U.S. operators to be $691,560, or $1,020 per product.
    In addition, we estimate that any necessary follow-on actions would 
take about 7 work-hours and require parts costing approximately $5,000, 
for a cost of $5,595 per product. We have no way of determining the 
number of products that may need these actions.

[[Page 42227]]

Authority for This Rulemaking

    Title 49 of the United States Code specifies the FAA's authority to 
issue rules on aviation safety. Subtitle I, section 106, describes the 
authority of the FAA Administrator. ``Subtitle VII: Aviation 
Programs,'' describes in more detail the scope of the Agency's 
authority. We are issuing this rulemaking under the authority described 
in ``Subtitle VII, Part A, Subpart III, Section 44701: General 
requirements.'' Under that section, Congress charges the FAA with 
promoting safe flight of civil aircraft in air commerce by prescribing 
regulations for practices, methods, and procedures the Administrator 
finds necessary for safety in air commerce. This regulation is within 
the scope of that authority because it addresses an unsafe condition 
that is likely to exist or develop on products identified in this 
rulemaking action.

Regulatory Findings

    We determined that this proposed AD would not have federalism 
implications under Executive Order 13132. This proposed AD would not 
have a substantial direct effect on the States, on the relationship 
between the national Government and the States, or on the distribution 
of power and responsibilities among the various levels of government.
    For the reasons discussed above, I certify this proposed 
regulation:
    (1) Is not a ``significant regulatory action'' under Executive 
Order 12866,
    (2) Is not a ``significant rule'' under the DOT Regulatory Policies 
and Procedures (44 FR 11034, February 26, 1979),
    (3) Will not affect intrastate aviation in Alaska, and
    (4) 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.

List of Subjects in 14 CFR Part 39

    Air transportation, Aircraft, Aviation safety, Incorporation by 
reference, Safety.

The Proposed Amendment

    Accordingly, under the authority delegated to me by the 
Administrator, the FAA proposes to amend 14 CFR part 39 as follows:

PART 39--AIRWORTHINESS DIRECTIVES

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

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


Sec.  39.13  [Amended]

    2. The FAA amends Sec.  39.13 by removing Amendment 39-15963 (74 FR 
34213, July 15, 2009), and adding the following new AD:

PILATUS AIRCRAFT LTD.: Docket No. FAA-2012-0732; Directorate 
Identifier 2012-CE-022-AD.

(a) Comments Due Date

    We must receive comments by September 4, 2012.

(b) Affected ADs

    This AD supersedes AD 2009-14-13, Amendment 39-15963 (74 FR 
34213, July 15, 2009).

(c) Applicability

    This AD applies to Pilatus Aircraft LTD. Models PC 12, PC 12/45, 
PC 12/47, and PC-12/47E airplanes, all manufacturer serial numbers 
(MSNs), certificated in any category.

(d) Subject

    Air Transport Association of America (ATA) Code 05: Time Limits.

(e) Reason

    This AD was prompted by 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 a need to 
incorporate new revisions into the Limitations section, Chapter 4, 
of the FAA-approved maintenance program (e.g., maintenance manual). 
The limitations were revised to include an inspection of the wing 
main spar fastener holes at rib 6 for cracks. These actions are 
required to ensure the continued operational safety of the affected 
airplanes.

(f) Actions and Compliance

    Unless already done, do the following actions:
    (1) For Models PC 12 and PC 12/45 airplanes, MSNs 101 through 
299: Within the next 100 hours time in service (TIS) after August 
19, 2009 (the effective date retained from AD 2009-14-13, Amendment 
39-15963 (74 FR 34213, July 15, 2009)) or 1 year after August 19, 
2009 (the effective date retained from AD 2009-14-13), whichever 
occurs first, replace the torque tube P/N 532.50.12.047 with torque 
tube P/N 532.50.12.064 following PILATUS AIRCRAFT LTD. Service 
Bulletin No: 32 021, dated November 21, 2008.
    (2) For all airplanes: As of the effective date of this AD, do 
not install torque tube P/N 532.50.12.047.
    (3) For all airplanes: Before further flight after the effective 
date of this AD, insert Structural, Component and Miscellaneous--
Airworthiness Limitations, document 12 A 04 00 00 00A 000A A, dated 
January 27, 2012 (for Models PC 12, PC 12/45, PC 12/47), and 
Structural and Component Limitations--Airworthiness Limitations, 
document 12 B 04 00 00 00A 000A A, dated January 27, 2012 (for Model 
PC 12/47E), into the Limitations section of the FAA approved 
maintenance program (e.g., maintenance manual). The limitations 
section revision does the following:
    (i) Establishes an inspection of the wing main spar fastener 
holes at rib 6,
    (ii) Specifies replacement of components before or upon reaching 
the applicable life limit, and
    (iii) Specifies accomplishment of all applicable maintenance 
tasks within certain thresholds and intervals.
    (4) For all airplanes: If no compliance time is specified in the 
documents listed in paragraph (f)(3) of this AD when doing any 
corrective actions where discrepancies are found as required in 
paragraph (f)(3)(iii) of this AD, do these corrective actions before 
further flight after doing the applicable maintenance task.
    (5) For all airplanes: During the accomplishment of the actions 
required in paragraphs (f)(3)(i), (f)(3)(ii), and (f)(3)(iii) of 
this AD, if a discrepancy is found that is not identified in the 
documents listed in paragraph (f)(3) of this AD, before further 
flight after finding the discrepancy, contact Pilatus Aircraft Ltd. 
at the address specified in paragraph (h) of this AD for a repair 
scheme and incorporate that repair scheme.

    Note 1 to paragraph (f)(3) of this AD: Structural, Component and 
Miscellaneous--Airworthiness Limitations, document 12 A 04 00 00 00A 
000A A, dated January 27, 2012 (for Models PC 12, PC 12/45, PC 12/
47) is part of Chapter 4 of the Airplane Maintenance Manual (AMM) 
report 02049, issue 25, dated January 25, 2012.


    Note 2 to paragraph (f)(3) of this AD: Structural and Component 
Limitations--Airworthiness Limitations, document 12 B 04 00 00 00A 
000A A, dated January 27, 2012 (for Model PC 12/47E) is part of 
Chapter 4 of the AMM report 02300, issue 8, dated January 25, 2012.

(g) Other FAA AD Provisions

    The following provisions also apply to this AD:
    (1) Alternative Methods of Compliance (AMOCs): The Manager, 
Standards Office, FAA, has the authority to approve AMOCs for this 
AD, if requested using the procedures found in 14 CFR 39.19. Send 
information to ATTN: Doug Rudolph, Aerospace Engineer, FAA, Small 
Airplane Directorate, 901 Locust, Room 301, Kansas City, Missouri 
64106; telephone: (816) 329 4059; fax: (816) 329 4090; email: 
doug.rudolph@faa.gov.
    (i) Before using any approved AMOC on any airplane to which the 
AMOC applies, notify your appropriate principal inspector (PI) in 
the FAA Flight Standards District Office (FSDO), or lacking a PI, 
your local FSDO.
    (ii) AMOCs approved for AD 2009-14-13, Amendment 39-15963 (74 FR 
34213, July 15, 2009) are not approved as AMOCs for this AD.
    (2) Airworthy Product: For any requirement in this AD to obtain 
corrective actions from a manufacturer or other source, use these 
actions if they are FAA-approved. Corrective actions are considered 
FAA-approved if they are approved by the State of Design Authority 
(or their delegated agent). You are required to assure the product 
is airworthy before it is returned to service.

[[Page 42228]]

    (3) Reporting Requirements: For any reporting requirement in 
this AD, a federal agency may not conduct or sponsor, and a person 
is not required to respond to, nor shall a person be subject to a 
penalty for failure to comply with a collection of information 
subject to the requirements of the Paperwork Reduction Act unless 
that collection of information displays a current valid OMB Control 
Number. The OMB Control Number for this information collection is 
2120-0056. Public reporting for this collection of information is 
estimated to be approximately 5 minutes per response, including the 
time for reviewing instructions, completing and reviewing the 
collection of information. All responses to this collection of 
information are mandatory. Comments concerning the accuracy of this 
burden and suggestions for reducing the burden should be directed to 
the FAA at: 800 Independence Ave. SW., Washington, DC 20591, Attn: 
Information Collection Clearance Officer, AES-200.

 (h) Related Information

    Refer to MCAI European Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) AD No. 
2012-0099, dated June 8, 2012; Structural and Component 
Limitations--Airworthiness Limitations, document 12 B 04 00 00 00A 
000A A, dated January 27, 2012; Structural, Component and 
Miscellaneous--Airworthiness Limitations, document 12 A 04 00 00 00A 
000A A, dated January 27, 2012; and PILATUS AIRCRAFT LTD. Service 
Bulletin No: 32 021, dated November 21, 2008, for related 
information. For service information related to this AD, contact 
PILATUS AIRCRAFT LTD., Customer Service Manager, CH 6371 STANS, 
Switzerland; telephone: +41 (0)41 619 62 08; fax: +41 (0)41 619 73 
11; Internet: https://www.pilatus_aircraft.com or email: 
SupportPC12@pilatus_aircraft.com. You may review copies of the 
referenced service information at the FAA, Small Airplane 
Directorate, 901 Locust, Kansas City, Missouri 64106. For 
information on the availability of this material at the FAA, call 
(816) 329-4148.

    Issued in Kansas City, Missouri, on July 5, 2012.
Earl Lawrence,
Manager, Small Airplane Directorate, Aircraft Certification Service.

[FR Doc. 2012-17103 Filed 7-17-12; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE 4910-13-P

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