Airworthiness Directives; Sikorsky Aircraft Corporation Helicopters, 56581-56585 [2012-22525]

Download as PDF Federal Register / Vol. 77, No. 178 / Thursday, September 13, 2012 / Proposed Rules PART 622—RULES OF PRACTICE AND PROCEDURE 17. The authority citation for part 622 continues to read as follows: Authority: Secs. 5.9, 5.10, 5.17, 5.25–5.37 of the Farm Credit Act (12 U.S.C. 2243, 2244, 2252, 2261–2273); 28 U.S.C. 2461 note; and 42 U.S.C. 4012a(f). § 622.2 19. The authority citation for part 623 is revised to read as follows: Authority: Secs. 5.9, 5.10, 5.17, 5.25–5.37 of the Farm Credit Act (12 U.S.C. 2243, 2244, 2252, 2261–2273). [Amended] 20. In § 623.2 paragraph (d) is amended by removing the words ‘‘service organization chartered under part E of title IV of the Act’’ and adding in their place, the words ‘‘service corporation chartered under the Act.’’ PART 630—DISCLOSURE TO INVESTORS IN SYSTEMWIDE AND CONSOLIDATED BANK DEBT OBLIGATIONS OF THE FARM CREDIT SYSTEM 21. The authority citation for part 630 is revised to read as follows: Authority: Secs. 4.2, 4.9, 5.9, 5.17, 5.19 of the Farm Credit Act (12 U.S.C. 2153, 2160, 2243, 2252, 2254); sec. 424 of Pub. L. 100– 233, 101 Stat. 1568, 1656; sec. 514 of Pub. L. 102–552, 106 Stat. 4102. [Amended] mstockstill on DSK4VPTVN1PROD with PROPOSALS 22. Section 630.20 is amended by removing the words ‘‘service organization’’ in paragraph (a)(2) and adding in their place, the words ‘‘service corporation.’’ Dated: September 6, 2012. Dale L. Aultman, Secretary, Farm Credit Administration Board. [FR Doc. 2012–22382 Filed 9–12–12; 8:45 am] BILLING CODE 6705–01–P VerDate Mar<15>2010 17:53 Sep 12, 2012 14 CFR Part 39 [Docket No. FAA–2009–1088; Directorate Identifier 2008–SW–76–AD] RIN 2120–AA64 Jkt 226001 Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), DOT. ACTION: Supplemental notice of proposed rulemaking (NPRM); reopening of comment period. AGENCY: We are revising an earlier proposed airworthiness directive (AD) for the Sikorsky Aircraft Corporation (Sikorsky) Model S–92A helicopter, which proposed revising the Rotorcraft Flight Manual (RFM), Operating Limitations section, to prohibit Class D external load operations, including human external cargo (HEC), because this model helicopter was not certificated to one-engine inoperative performance standards for carrying Class D external loads. This Supplemental NPRM is prompted by a recent design approval, which allows Class D external load operations if the appropriate operating limitations are included in the RFM. This proposed AD is intended to require appropriate operating limitations to allow operators to perform Class D external loadcombination operations, including HEC, in this model helicopter that now meets the Category A performance standard. DATES: We must receive comments on this proposed AD by November 13, 2012. SUMMARY: PART 623—PRACTICE BEFORE THE FARM CREDIT ADMINISTRATION § 630.20 Federal Aviation Administration Airworthiness Directives; Sikorsky Aircraft Corporation Helicopters [Amended] 18. In § 622.2 paragraph (d) is amended by removing the words ‘‘service organization chartered under part E of title IV of the Act’’ and adding in their place, the words ‘‘service corporation chartered under the Act.’’ § 623.2 DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION You may send comments by any of the following methods: • Federal eRulemaking Docket: Go to https://www.regulations.gov. Follow the online instructions for sending your comments electronically. • Fax: 202–493–2251. • Mail: Send comments 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 20590–0001. • Hand Delivery: Deliver to the ‘‘Mail’’ address between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m., Monday through Friday, except Federal holidays. Examining the AD Docket: You may examine the AD docket 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. ADDRESSES: PO 00000 Frm 00017 Fmt 4702 Sfmt 4702 56581 The AD docket contains this proposed AD, the economic evaluation, any comments received and other information. The street address for the Docket Operations Office (telephone 800–647–5527) is in the ADDRESSES section. Comments will be available in the AD docket shortly after receipt. For service information identified in this proposed AD, contact Sikorsky Aircraft Corporation, Attn: Manager, Commercial Technical Support, mailstop S581A, 6900 Main Street, Stratford, CT, telephone (203) 383–4866, email address tsslibrary@sikorsky.com, or at https://www.sikorsky.com. You may review a copy of the service information at the FAA, Office of the Regional Counsel, Southwest Region, 2601 Meacham Blvd., Room 663, Fort Worth, Texas 76137. FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: John Coffey, Flight Test Engineer, Boston Aircraft Certification Office, 12 New England Executive Park, Burlington, MA 01803; telephone (781) 238–7173; email: john.coffey@faa.gov. SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: Comments Invited We invite you to participate in this rulemaking by submitting written comments, data, or views. We also invite comments relating to the economic, environmental, energy, or federalism impacts that might result from adopting the proposals in this document. The most helpful comments reference a specific portion of the proposal, explain the reason for any recommended change, and include supporting data. To ensure the docket does not contain duplicate comments, commenters should send only one copy of written comments, or if comments are filed electronically, commenters should submit only one time. We will file in the docket all comments that we receive, as well as a report summarizing each substantive public contact with FAA personnel concerning this proposed rulemaking. Before acting on this proposal, we will consider all comments we receive on or before the closing date for comments. We will consider comments filed after the comment period has closed if it is possible to do so without incurring expense or delay. We may change this proposal in light of the comments we receive. Discussion On October 23, 2009, we issued a proposal to amend 14 CFR part 39 to include an AD that would apply to Sikorsky Model S–92 helicopters. That NPRM was published in the Federal E:\FR\FM\13SEP1.SGM 13SEP1 56582 Federal Register / Vol. 77, No. 178 / Thursday, September 13, 2012 / Proposed Rules Register on December 10, 2009 (74 FR 65496). The NPRM proposed revising the RFM SA S92A–RFM–003, Part 1, Section 1, Operating Limitations, Types of Operation, by removing the statement ‘‘RESCUE HOIST: category ‘A’ only External load operations with Class ‘D’ external loads.’’ The NPRM proposed replacing that statement with ‘‘HOIST: Class D external loads PROHIBITED.’’ That NPRM was prompted by a mistake in the RFM, which allowed ‘‘Class D’’ rotorcraft load combinations for HEC operations for this model helicopter. The Model S–92A RFM did not include the required one-engine inoperative (OEI) hover performance and procedures. Also, the NPRM proposed replacing the words ‘‘RESCUE HOIST’’ in the RFM with ‘‘HOIST.’’ Actions Since Previous NPRM Was Issued Since issuing the previous NPRM, a recent design approval for HEC operations has been issued for this helicopter. Therefore, we no longer need to prohibit rotorcraft load combinations for HEC operations for this model helicopter, but rather we need to correct the RFM to apply the appropriate limitations. Because this change expands the scope of the originally proposed rule, the FAA will reopen the comment period to provide additional opportunity for public comment. FAA’s Determination We are proposing this AD because we evaluated all the relevant information and determined the unsafe condition described previously is likely to exist or develop in other products of the same type design. mstockstill on DSK4VPTVN1PROD with PROPOSALS Proposed AD Requirements This proposed AD would require, within 90 days, revising the Operating Limitations section of the RFM S92A– RFM–003, Part 1, Section 1, by inserting a copy of this AD into the RFM or by making pen and ink changes to several sections of the RFM Operating Limitations. The changes required by this AD are complied with if RFM S92A–RFM–003, Revision 12, has been incorporated into the RFM. Costs of Compliance We estimate that this proposed AD would affect 65 helicopters in the U.S. registry. The costs for inserting a correction to the RFM are expected to be minimal. VerDate Mar<15>2010 17:53 Sep 12, 2012 Jkt 226001 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, 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 to the extent that it justifies making a regulatory distinction; 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. We prepared an economic evaluation of the estimated costs to comply with this proposed AD and placed it in the AD docket. 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: PO 00000 Frm 00018 Fmt 4702 Sfmt 4702 PART 39—AIRWORTHINESS DIRECTIVES 1. The authority citation for part 39 continues to read as follows: Authority: 49 U.S.C. 106(g), 40113, 44701. § 39.13 [Amended] 2. The FAA amends § 39.13 by adding the following new AD: Sikorsky Aircraft Corporation Helicopters: Docket No. FAA–2009–1088; Directorate Identifier 2008–SW–76–AD. (a) Applicability This AD applies to Sikorsky Aircraft Corporation Model S–92A helicopters, certificated in any category. (b) Unsafe Condition This AD defines the unsafe condition as an inaccurate Rotorcraft Flight Manual (RFM) provision, which was approved without appropriate limitations for this model helicopter for carrying Class D external rotorcraft-load combinations, including Human External Cargo (HEC), when this model helicopter was not certificated to Category A one-engine inoperative (OEI) performance standards, including fly away capabilities after an engine failure, which is required for carrying HEC. (c) Compliance You are responsible for performing each action required by this AD within the specified compliance time unless it has already been accomplished prior to that time. (d) Required Actions Within 90 days, revise the Operating Limitations section of Rotorcraft Flight Manual (RFM) S92A–RFM–003, Part 1, Section 1, by inserting a copy of this AD into the RFM or by making pen and ink changes, as follows: Note to paragraph (d): The changes required by this AD are complied with if RFM S92A–RFM–003, Revision 12, has been incorporated into the RFM. (1) In the Types of Operation section, beneath Hoist, add the following: ‘‘The hoist equipment certification installation approval does not constitute approval to conduct hoist operations. Operational approval for hoist operations must be granted by the Federal Aviation Administration. No cabin seats may be installed in front of station 317 when conducting Human External Cargo hoist operations, which requires Category A performance capabilities.’’ (2) In the Flight Limits section, add the following: ‘‘HOIST When conducting Human External Cargo operations, which require category ‘A’ performance capabilities, the minimum hover height is 20 feet AGL and the maximum hover height is 80 feet AGL. HOIST The collective axis must remain uncoupled when conducting Human External Cargo, which requires category ‘A’ performance capabilities, for the period of time that the person is off the ground or water and not in the aircraft. This can be E:\FR\FM\13SEP1.SGM 13SEP1 Federal Register / Vol. 77, No. 178 / Thursday, September 13, 2012 / Proposed Rules mstockstill on DSK4VPTVN1PROD with PROPOSALS accomplished by either uncoupling the collective axis or by the pilot depressing the collective trim switch during the pertinent portion of the maneuver.’’ (3) In the Weight Limits section: (i) Remove this note: ‘‘NOTE: The 150 pound hoist decrement does not preclude Cat A operations at a gross weight of 26,500 VerDate Mar<15>2010 17:53 Sep 12, 2012 Jkt 226001 pounds with a hoist installed. If conditions permit, the pilot may go to the right of the 26,500 line on figure 1–2 to determine a maximum gross weight up to 26,650 and then subtract 150 pounds.’’ (ii) Add this paragraph and figure: ‘‘HOIST Maximum gross weight for Human External Cargo, which requires category ‘A’ PO 00000 Frm 00019 Fmt 4702 Sfmt 4702 56583 performance capabilities, is limited to the gross weight determined in accordance with the following Figure 1–2A to Paragraph (d) of this AD for your altitude and temperature with the air-conditioner, anti-ice, and bleed air turned off.’’ BILLING CODE 4910–13–P E:\FR\FM\13SEP1.SGM 13SEP1 VerDate Mar<15>2010 Federal Register / Vol. 77, No. 178 / Thursday, September 13, 2012 / Proposed Rules 17:53 Sep 12, 2012 Jkt 226001 PO 00000 Frm 00020 Fmt 4702 Sfmt 4725 E:\FR\FM\13SEP1.SGM 13SEP1 EN13SE12.000</GPH> mstockstill on DSK4VPTVN1PROD with PROPOSALS 56584 Federal Register / Vol. 77, No. 178 / Thursday, September 13, 2012 / Proposed Rules (e) Alternative Methods of Compliance (AMOCs) (1) The Manager, Safety Management Group, FAA, may approve AMOCs for this AD. Send your proposal to: John Coffey, Flight Test Engineer, Boston Aircraft Certification Office, 12 New England Executive Park, Burlington, MA 01803; telephone (781) 238–7173, fax (781) 238– 7170; email john.coffey@faa.gov. (2) For operations conducted under a 14 CFR part 119 operating certificate or under 14 CFR part 91, subpart K, we suggest that you notify your principal inspector, or lacking a principal inspector, the manager of the local flight standards district office or certificate holding district office before operating any aircraft complying with this AD through an AMOC. (f) Additional Information For service information identified in this AD, contact Sikorsky Aircraft Corporation, Attn: Manager, Commercial Technical Support, mailstop S581A, 6900 Main Street, Stratford, CT, telephone (203) 383–4866, email address tsslibrary@sikorsky.com, or at https://www.sikorsky.com. You may review a copy of this information at the FAA, Office of the Regional Counsel, Southwest Region, 2601 Meacham Blvd., Room 663, Fort Worth, Texas 76137. (g) Subject Joint Aircraft Service Component (JASC) Code: 2510: Flight Compartment Equipment. Issued in Fort Worth, Texas, on September 5, 2012. Lance T. Gant, Acting Manager, Rotorcraft Directorate, Aircraft Certification Service. [FR Doc. 2012–22525 Filed 9–12–12; 8:45 am] BILLING CODE 4910–13–C DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION Federal Aviation Administration 14 CFR Part 39 [Docket No. FAA–2012–0901; Directorate Identifier 2012–NE–19–AD] RIN 2120–AA64 Airworthiness Directives; Turbomeca S.A. Turboshaft Engines Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), DOT. ACTION: Notice of proposed rulemaking (NPRM). AGENCY: We propose to adopt a new airworthiness directive (AD) for all Turbomeca S.A. Arriel 1A1, 1A2, 1B, 1C, 1C1, 1C2, 1D, 1D1, 1E2, 1K1, 1S, and 1S1 turboshaft engines. This proposed AD was prompted by several reports of uncommanded in-flight shutdown (IFSD) on Arriel 1 engines. This proposed AD would require performing a high gas generator speed mstockstill on DSK4VPTVN1PROD with PROPOSALS SUMMARY: VerDate Mar<15>2010 17:53 Sep 12, 2012 Jkt 226001 (NG) rating vibration check. We are proposing this AD to prevent an uncommanded in-flight shut-down of the engine, which could result in an emergency landing. DATES: We must receive comments on this proposed AD by November 13, 2012. ADDRESSES: You may send comments by any of the following methods: • Federal eRulemaking Portal: Go to https://www.regulations.gov and follow the instructions for sending your comments electronically. • Mail: Docket Management Facility, U.S. Department of Transportation, 1200 New Jersey Avenue SE., West Building Ground Floor, Room W12–140, Washington, DC 20590–0001. • Hand Delivery: Deliver to Mail address above between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m., Monday through Friday, except Federal holidays. • Fax: (202) 493–2251. Examining the AD Docket You may examine the AD docket 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 AD docket contains this proposed AD, the regulatory evaluation, any comments received, and other information. The street address for the Docket Operations office (phone: (800) 647–5527) is the same as the Mail address provided in the ADDRESSES section. Comments will be available in the AD docket shortly after receipt. FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Frederick Zink, Aerospace Engineer, Engine Certification Office, FAA, Engine & Propeller Directorate, 12 New England Executive Park, Burlington, MA 01803; email: frederick.zink@faa.gov; phone: 781–238–7779; fax: 781–238–7199. 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–2012–0901; Directorate Identifier 2012–NE–19–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 based on those comments. We will post all comments we receive, without change, to https:// www.regulations.gov, including any PO 00000 Frm 00021 Fmt 4702 Sfmt 4702 56585 personal information you provide. We will also post a report summarizing each substantive verbal contact with FAA personnel concerning this proposed AD. Using the search function of the Web site, anyone can find and read the comments in any of our dockets, including, if provided, the name of the individual who sent the comment (or signed the comment on behalf of an association, business, labor union, etc.). You may review the DOT’s complete Privacy Act Statement in the Federal Register published on April 11, 2000 (65 FR 19477–78). Discussion The European Aviation Safety Agency (EASA), which is the Technical Agent for the Member States of the European Community, has issued EASA Airworthiness Directive 2012–0117, dated July 3, 2012 (referred to after this as ‘‘the MCAI’’), to correct an unsafe condition for the specified products. The MCAI states: Several cases of uncommanded in-flight shut-down (IFSD) have been reported on ARRIEL 1 engines. Results of subsequent investigations showed that some Gas Generator (GG) rear bearing failures have occurred following ‘‘Level 3’’ maintenance operations on the GG Assembly. Some of these maintenance operations may have created an unbalanced condition of the GG rotating assembly and, ultimately, failure of the GG rear bearing. This condition, if not detected and corrected, could lead to an uncommanded engine in-flight shut down and may ultimately lead to an emergency landing. You may obtain further information by examining the MCAI in the AD docket. FAA’s Determination and Requirements of This Proposed AD This product has been approved by the aviation authority of France and is approved for operation in the United States. Pursuant to our bilateral agreement with the European Community, EASA has notified us of the unsafe condition described in the MCAI referenced above. We are proposing this AD because we evaluated all information provided by EASA and determined the unsafe condition exists and is likely to exist or develop on other products of the same type design. Costs of Compliance Based on the service information, we estimate that this proposed AD would affect about 1,445 products of U.S. registry. We also estimate that it would take about 1 work-hour per product to comply with this proposed AD. The average labor rate is $85 per work-hour. Based on these figures, we estimate the cost of the proposed AD on U.S. E:\FR\FM\13SEP1.SGM 13SEP1

Agencies

[Federal Register Volume 77, Number 178 (Thursday, September 13, 2012)]
[Proposed Rules]
[Pages 56581-56585]
From the Federal Register Online via the Government Printing Office [www.gpo.gov]
[FR Doc No: 2012-22525]


=======================================================================
-----------------------------------------------------------------------

DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION

Federal Aviation Administration

14 CFR Part 39

[Docket No. FAA-2009-1088; Directorate Identifier 2008-SW-76-AD]
RIN 2120-AA64


Airworthiness Directives; Sikorsky Aircraft Corporation 
Helicopters

AGENCY: Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), DOT.

ACTION: Supplemental notice of proposed rulemaking (NPRM); reopening of 
comment period.

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

SUMMARY: We are revising an earlier proposed airworthiness directive 
(AD) for the Sikorsky Aircraft Corporation (Sikorsky) Model S-92A 
helicopter, which proposed revising the Rotorcraft Flight Manual (RFM), 
Operating Limitations section, to prohibit Class D external load 
operations, including human external cargo (HEC), because this model 
helicopter was not certificated to one-engine inoperative performance 
standards for carrying Class D external loads. This Supplemental NPRM 
is prompted by a recent design approval, which allows Class D external 
load operations if the appropriate operating limitations are included 
in the RFM. This proposed AD is intended to require appropriate 
operating limitations to allow operators to perform Class D external 
load-combination operations, including HEC, in this model helicopter 
that now meets the Category A performance standard.

DATES: We must receive comments on this proposed AD by November 13, 
2012.

ADDRESSES: You may send comments by any of the following methods:
     Federal eRulemaking Docket: Go to https://www.regulations.gov. Follow the online instructions for sending your 
comments electronically.
     Fax: 202-493-2251.
     Mail: Send comments 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 20590-0001.
     Hand Delivery: Deliver to the ``Mail'' address between 9 
a.m. and 5 p.m., Monday through Friday, except Federal holidays.
    Examining the AD Docket: You may examine the AD docket 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 AD docket contains this proposed AD, the 
economic evaluation, any comments received and other information. The 
street address for the Docket Operations Office (telephone 800-647-
5527) is in the ADDRESSES section. Comments will be available in the AD 
docket shortly after receipt.
    For service information identified in this proposed AD, contact 
Sikorsky Aircraft Corporation, Attn: Manager, Commercial Technical 
Support, mailstop S581A, 6900 Main Street, Stratford, CT, telephone 
(203) 383-4866, email address tsslibrary@sikorsky.com, or at https://www.sikorsky.com. You may review a copy of the service information at 
the FAA, Office of the Regional Counsel, Southwest Region, 2601 Meacham 
Blvd., Room 663, Fort Worth, Texas 76137.

FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: John Coffey, Flight Test Engineer, 
Boston Aircraft Certification Office, 12 New England Executive Park, 
Burlington, MA 01803; telephone (781) 238-7173; email: 
john.coffey@faa.gov.

SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: 

Comments Invited

    We invite you to participate in this rulemaking by submitting 
written comments, data, or views. We also invite comments relating to 
the economic, environmental, energy, or federalism impacts that might 
result from adopting the proposals in this document. The most helpful 
comments reference a specific portion of the proposal, explain the 
reason for any recommended change, and include supporting data. To 
ensure the docket does not contain duplicate comments, commenters 
should send only one copy of written comments, or if comments are filed 
electronically, commenters should submit only one time.
    We will file in the docket all comments that we receive, as well as 
a report summarizing each substantive public contact with FAA personnel 
concerning this proposed rulemaking. Before acting on this proposal, we 
will consider all comments we receive on or before the closing date for 
comments. We will consider comments filed after the comment period has 
closed if it is possible to do so without incurring expense or delay. 
We may change this proposal in light of the comments we receive.

Discussion

    On October 23, 2009, we issued a proposal to amend 14 CFR part 39 
to include an AD that would apply to Sikorsky Model S-92 helicopters. 
That NPRM was published in the Federal

[[Page 56582]]

Register on December 10, 2009 (74 FR 65496). The NPRM proposed revising 
the RFM SA S92A-RFM-003, Part 1, Section 1, Operating Limitations, 
Types of Operation, by removing the statement ``RESCUE HOIST: category 
`A' only External load operations with Class `D' external loads.'' The 
NPRM proposed replacing that statement with ``HOIST: Class D external 
loads PROHIBITED.''
    That NPRM was prompted by a mistake in the RFM, which allowed 
``Class D'' rotorcraft load combinations for HEC operations for this 
model helicopter. The Model S-92A RFM did not include the required one-
engine inoperative (OEI) hover performance and procedures.
    Also, the NPRM proposed replacing the words ``RESCUE HOIST'' in the 
RFM with ``HOIST.''

Actions Since Previous NPRM Was Issued

    Since issuing the previous NPRM, a recent design approval for HEC 
operations has been issued for this helicopter. Therefore, we no longer 
need to prohibit rotorcraft load combinations for HEC operations for 
this model helicopter, but rather we need to correct the RFM to apply 
the appropriate limitations.
    Because this change expands the scope of the originally proposed 
rule, the FAA will reopen the comment period to provide additional 
opportunity for public comment.

FAA's Determination

    We are proposing this AD because we evaluated all the relevant 
information and determined the unsafe condition described previously is 
likely to exist or develop in other products of the same type design.

Proposed AD Requirements

    This proposed AD would require, within 90 days, revising the 
Operating Limitations section of the RFM S92A-RFM-003, Part 1, Section 
1, by inserting a copy of this AD into the RFM or by making pen and ink 
changes to several sections of the RFM Operating Limitations. The 
changes required by this AD are complied with if RFM S92A-RFM-003, 
Revision 12, has been incorporated into the RFM.

Costs of Compliance

    We estimate that this proposed AD would affect 65 helicopters in 
the U.S. registry. The costs for inserting a correction to the RFM are 
expected to be minimal.

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, 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 to the extent that 
it justifies making a regulatory distinction; 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.
    We prepared an economic evaluation of the estimated costs to comply 
with this proposed AD and placed it in the AD docket.

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 adding the following new AD:

Sikorsky Aircraft Corporation Helicopters: Docket No. FAA-2009-1088; 
Directorate Identifier 2008-SW-76-AD.

(a) Applicability

    This AD applies to Sikorsky Aircraft Corporation Model S-92A 
helicopters, certificated in any category.

(b) Unsafe Condition

    This AD defines the unsafe condition as an inaccurate Rotorcraft 
Flight Manual (RFM) provision, which was approved without 
appropriate limitations for this model helicopter for carrying Class 
D external rotorcraft-load combinations, including Human External 
Cargo (HEC), when this model helicopter was not certificated to 
Category A one-engine inoperative (OEI) performance standards, 
including fly away capabilities after an engine failure, which is 
required for carrying HEC.

(c) Compliance

    You are responsible for performing each action required by this 
AD within the specified compliance time unless it has already been 
accomplished prior to that time.

(d) Required Actions

    Within 90 days, revise the Operating Limitations section of 
Rotorcraft Flight Manual (RFM) S92A-RFM-003, Part 1, Section 1, by 
inserting a copy of this AD into the RFM or by making pen and ink 
changes, as follows:

    Note to paragraph (d):  The changes required by this AD are 
complied with if RFM S92A-RFM-003, Revision 12, has been 
incorporated into the RFM.

    (1) In the Types of Operation section, beneath Hoist, add the 
following:
    ``The hoist equipment certification installation approval does 
not constitute approval to conduct hoist operations. Operational 
approval for hoist operations must be granted by the Federal 
Aviation Administration. No cabin seats may be installed in front of 
station 317 when conducting Human External Cargo hoist operations, 
which requires Category A performance capabilities.''
    (2) In the Flight Limits section, add the following:
    ``HOIST When conducting Human External Cargo operations, which 
require category `A' performance capabilities, the minimum hover 
height is 20 feet AGL and the maximum hover height is 80 feet AGL.
    HOIST The collective axis must remain uncoupled when conducting 
Human External Cargo, which requires category `A' performance 
capabilities, for the period of time that the person is off the 
ground or water and not in the aircraft. This can be

[[Page 56583]]

accomplished by either uncoupling the collective axis or by the 
pilot depressing the collective trim switch during the pertinent 
portion of the maneuver.''
    (3) In the Weight Limits section:
    (i) Remove this note: ``NOTE: The 150 pound hoist decrement does 
not preclude Cat A operations at a gross weight of 26,500 pounds 
with a hoist installed. If conditions permit, the pilot may go to 
the right of the 26,500 line on figure 1-2 to determine a maximum 
gross weight up to 26,650 and then subtract 150 pounds.''
    (ii) Add this paragraph and figure: ``HOIST Maximum gross weight 
for Human External Cargo, which requires category `A' performance 
capabilities, is limited to the gross weight determined in 
accordance with the following Figure 1-2A to Paragraph (d) of this 
AD for your altitude and temperature with the air-conditioner, anti-
ice, and bleed air turned off.''
BILLING CODE 4910-13-P

[[Page 56584]]

[GRAPHIC] [TIFF OMITTED] TN13SE12.000


[[Page 56585]]



(e) Alternative Methods of Compliance (AMOCs)

    (1) The Manager, Safety Management Group, FAA, may approve AMOCs 
for this AD. Send your proposal to: John Coffey, Flight Test 
Engineer, Boston Aircraft Certification Office, 12 New England 
Executive Park, Burlington, MA 01803; telephone (781) 238-7173, fax 
(781) 238-7170; email john.coffey@faa.gov.
    (2) For operations conducted under a 14 CFR part 119 operating 
certificate or under 14 CFR part 91, subpart K, we suggest that you 
notify your principal inspector, or lacking a principal inspector, 
the manager of the local flight standards district office or 
certificate holding district office before operating any aircraft 
complying with this AD through an AMOC.

(f) Additional Information

    For service information identified in this AD, contact Sikorsky 
Aircraft Corporation, Attn: Manager, Commercial Technical Support, 
mailstop S581A, 6900 Main Street, Stratford, CT, telephone (203) 
383-4866, email address tsslibrary@sikorsky.com, or at https://www.sikorsky.com. You may review a copy of this information at the 
FAA, Office of the Regional Counsel, Southwest Region, 2601 Meacham 
Blvd., Room 663, Fort Worth, Texas 76137.

(g) Subject

    Joint Aircraft Service Component (JASC) Code: 2510: Flight 
Compartment Equipment.

    Issued in Fort Worth, Texas, on September 5, 2012.
Lance T. Gant,
Acting Manager, Rotorcraft Directorate, Aircraft Certification Service.
[FR Doc. 2012-22525 Filed 9-12-12; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE 4910-13-C
This site is protected by reCAPTCHA and the Google Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply.