Airworthiness Directives; Eurocopter France Helicopters, 1739-1742 [2012-31682]
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Federal Register / Vol. 78, No. 6 / Wednesday, January 9, 2013 / Rules and Regulations
(ii) If the test was done before the effective
date of this AD: Submit the report within 15
days after the effective date of this AD.
(2) For any airplane on which any test
specified in paragraph (h) of this AD, or any
check specified in paragraph (i)(1) of this AD,
has been done: At the applicable time
specified in paragraph (j)(2)(i) or (j)(2)(ii) of
this AD, submit a report of the findings (both
pass and fail) of the test specified in
paragraph (h) of this AD; or the check
specified in paragraph (i)(1) of this AD; as
applicable; to the Manager, Los Angeles
Aircraft Certification Office (ACO), FAA,
3960 Paramount Boulevard, Lakewood, CA
90712–4137.
(i) If the test or check was done on or after
the effective date of this AD: Submit the
report within 15 days after the test or check.
(ii) If the test or check was done before the
effective date of this AD: Submit the report
within 15 days after the effective date of this
AD.
(3) For Airbus Model A318, A319, A320,
A321, A330–200 Freighter, A330–200, and
A330–300 series airplanes: At the applicable
time specified in paragraph (j)(3)(i) or
(j)(3)(ii) of this AD, submit a report of the
findings (both pass and fail) of the check
required by paragraph (i)(1) of this AD to
Honeywell by email
AeroTechSupport@honeywell.com or fax
602–365–1871. The report must include the
information specified in the reporting sheet
in Appendix B, ‘‘Air Data Module Check
Procedure and Reporting Table,’’ of Airbus
AOT A34N001–12, including Appendices A
and B, dated November 15, 2012, for Airbus
Model A318/A319/A320/A321 series
airplanes; or Airbus AOT A34N001–12,
including Appendices A and B, dated
November 15, 2012, for Airbus Model A330
series airplanes.
(i) If the check was done on or after the
effective date of this AD: Submit the report
within 15 days after the check.
(ii) If the check was done before the
effective date of this AD: Submit the report
within 15 days after the effective date of this
AD.
srobinson on DSK4SPTVN1PROD with
(k) Parts Installation Limitation
As of the effective date of this AD, no
person may install air data pressure
transducers in air data computers, air data
modules, air data attitude heading reference
systems, and digital air data computers,
having the part numbers and serial numbers
identified in Honeywell Alert Service
Bulletin ADM/ADC/ADAHRS–34–A01, dated
November 6, 2012, on any aircraft.
(l) Paperwork Reduction Act Burden
Statement
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
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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.
(m) Alternative Methods of Compliance
(AMOCs)
(1) The Manager, Los Angeles ACO, FAA,
has the authority to approve AMOCs for this
AD, if requested using the procedures found
in 14 CFR 39.19. In accordance with 14 CFR
39.19, send your request to your principal
inspector or local Flight Standards District
Office, as appropriate. If sending information
directly to the manager of the ACO, send it
to the attention of the person identified in the
Related Information section of this AD.
(2) Before using any approved AMOC,
notify your appropriate principal inspector,
or lacking a principal inspector, the manager
of the local flight standards district office/
certificate holding district office.
(n) Related Information
For more information about this AD,
contact Blake Higuchi, Aerospace Engineer,
Systems and Equipment Branch, ANM–130L,
FAA, Los Angeles ACO, 3960 Paramount
Boulevard, Lakewood, CA 90712–4137;
phone: 562–627–5315; fax: 562–627–5210;
email: blake.higuchi@faa.gov.
(o) Material Incorporated by Reference
(1) The Director of the Federal Register
approved the incorporation by reference
(IBR) of the service information listed in this
paragraph under 5 U.S.C. 552(a) and 1 CFR
part 51.
(2) You must use this service information
as applicable to do the actions required by
this AD, unless the AD specifies otherwise.
(i) Honeywell Alert Service Bulletin ADM/
ADC/ADAHRS–34–A01, dated November 6,
2012.
(ii) Airbus Alert Operators Transmission
(AOT) A34N001–12, including Appendices A
and B, dated November 15, 2012, for Airbus
Model A318/A319/A320/A321 series
airplanes.
(iii) Airbus AOT A34N001–12, including
Appendices A and B, dated November 15,
2012, for Airbus Model A330 series
airplanes.
(3) For Honeywell service information
identified in this AD, contact Honeywell
Aerospace, Technical Publications and
Distribution, M/S 2101–201, P.O. Box 52170,
Phoenix, AZ 85072–2170; telephone 602–
365–5535; fax 602–365–5577; Internet https://
www.honeywell.com. For Airbus service
information identified in this AD for Model
A330 series airplanes, contact Airbus SAS—
Airworthiness Office—EAL, 1 Rond Point
Maurice Bellonte, 31707 Blagnac Cedex,
France; telephone +33 5 61 93 36 96; fax +33
5 61 93 45 80; email airworthiness.A330–
A340@airbus.com; Internet https://
www.airbus.com. For Airbus service
information identified in this AD for Model
A318, A319, A320, and A321 series
airplanes, contact Airbus, Airworthiness
PO 00000
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1739
Office—EAS, 1 Rond Point Maurice Bellonte,
31707 Blagnac Cedex, France; telephone +33
5 61 93 36 96; fax +33 5 61 93 44 51; email
account.airworth-eas@airbus.com; Internet
https://www.airbus.com.
(4) You may view this service information
at FAA, Transport Airplane Directorate, 1601
Lind Avenue SW., Renton, WA. For
information on the availability of this
material at the FAA, call 425–227–1221.
(5) You may view this service information
that is incorporated by reference at the
National Archives and Records
Administration (NARA). For information on
the availability of this material at NARA, call
202–741–6030, or go to: https://
www.archives.gov/federal-register/cfr/ibrlocations.html.
Issued in Renton, Washington, on
December 21, 2012.
Ali Bahrami,
Manager, Transport Airplane Directorate,
Aircraft Certification Service.
[FR Doc. 2012–31587 Filed 1–8–13; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE 4910–13–P
DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION
Federal Aviation Administration
14 CFR Part 39
[Docket No. FAA–2012–0632; Directorate
Identifier 2011–SW–044–AD; Amendment
39–17305; AD 2012–26–10]
RIN 2120–AA64
Airworthiness Directives; Eurocopter
France Helicopters
Federal Aviation
Administration (FAA), DOT.
ACTION: Final rule.
AGENCY:
We are adopting a new
airworthiness directive (AD) for all
Eurocopter France (Eurocopter) Model
SA–365N, SA–365N1, AS–365N2, AS
365 N3, EC 155B, EC155B1, SA–365C,
SA–365C1, SA–365C2, and SA–366G1
helicopters. This AD requires inspecting
portions of the main gearbox (MGB) for
the presence of sealing compound and
corrosion. This AD was prompted by
reports of corrosion on the main MGB
casing lower area between the two
servo-control anchoring fitting
attachment ribs. An investigation
determined that the corrosion was
associated with sealing compound on
the lower part of the fitting/casing
attachment. The actions in this AD are
intended to detect corrosion on the
MGB casing, which could lead to a
crack, failure of the MGB, and
subsequent loss of control of the
helicopter.
SUMMARY:
DATES:
This AD is effective February 13,
2013.
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Federal Register / Vol. 78, No. 6 / Wednesday, January 9, 2013 / Rules and Regulations
The Director of the Federal Register
approved the incorporation by reference
of certain documents listed in this AD
as of February 13, 2013.
For service information
identified in this AD, contact American
Eurocopter Corporation, 2701 Forum
Drive, Grand Prairie, Texas 75053–4005,
telephone (800) 232–0323, fax (972)
641–3710, or at https://
www.eurocopter.com. You may review
the referenced service information at the
FAA, Office of the Regional Counsel,
Southwest Region, 2601 Meacham
Blvd., Room 663, Fort Worth, Texas
76137.
ADDRESSES:
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 AD, any
incorporated-by-reference service
information, the economic evaluation,
any comments received, and other
information. The street address for the
Docket Operations Office (phone: 800–
647–5527) is U.S. Department of
Transportation, Docket Operations
Office, M–30, West Building Ground
Floor, Room W12–140, 1200 New Jersey
Avenue SE., Washington, DC 20590.
Rao
Edupuganti, Aviation Safety Engineer,
Regulations and Policy Group,
Rotorcraft Directorate, FAA, 2601
Meacham Blvd., Fort Worth, Texas
76137; telephone (817) 222–4389; email:
rao.edupaganti@faa.gov.
FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT:
SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION:
srobinson on DSK4SPTVN1PROD with
Discussion
On June 18, 2012, at 77 FR 36220, the
Federal Register published our notice of
proposed rulemaking (NPRM), which
proposed to amend 14 CFR part 39 to
include an AD that would apply to
Eurocopter Model SA–365N, SA–
365N1, AS–365N2, AS 365 N3, EC
155B, EC155B1, SA–366G1, SA–365C,
SA–365C1, and SA–365C2 helicopters,
with an MGB installed. That NPRM
proposed to require inspecting the lower
parts of the MGB casing anchoring
fittings for sealing compound, and if
there is sealing compound on the lower
parts of the anchoring fittings, removing
the sealing compound and inspecting
the anchoring fittings for corrosion. If
there is corrosion, the NPRM proposed
repairing the affected area. If there is no
corrosion, the NPRM proposed applying
touch up protective treatment and
renewing any damaged sealing
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compound bead in the lower part of the
anchoring fitting.
The proposed requirements were
intended to detect corrosion on the
MGB casing, which could lead to a
crack, failure of the MGB, and
subsequent loss of control of the
helicopter.
The European Aviation Safety Agency
(EASA), which is the Technical Agent
for the Member States of the European
Union, has issued AD No.: 2011–0127,
dated July 1, 2011 (AD No. 2011–0127),
which supersedes Directorate General
for Civil Aviation (DGAC France) AD F–
2008–04, dated June 4, 2008, for the
Eurocopter Model EC 155 B, EC 155 B1,
SA 365 N, SA 365 N1, AS 365 N2, AS
365 N3, SA 366 G1, SA 365 C, SA 365
C1, SA 365 C2, and SA 365 C3
helicopters with a MGB, all part
numbers, that was delivered before
December 5, 2007, installed on
helicopters delivered before December
5, 2007, or overhauled or repaired
before September 30, 2008. EASA states
that in 2008, it received two reports of
atmospheric corrosion on the MGB
casing lower area of two helicopters
between the two servo-control
anchoring fitting attachment ribs. The
investigation showed that the corrosion
occurred in this area due to the presence
of ‘‘PR sealing compound’’ on the lower
part of the fitting/casing attachment.
The ‘‘PR sealing compound’’ may have
been applied incorrectly on some
helicopters due to a misinterpretation of
the Eurocopter documentation during
installation. EASA states that this
condition, if not corrected, could lead to
‘‘crack initiation and crack growth in
the affected area of the casing,’’ which
could cause this area to fail and result
in loss of control of the helicopter.
Comments
We gave the public the opportunity to
participate in developing this AD, but
we did not receive any comments on the
NPRM (77 FR 36220, June 18, 2012).
FAA’s Determination
These helicopters have been approved
by the aviation authority of France and
are approved for operation in the United
States. Pursuant to our bilateral
agreement with France, EASA, its
technical representative, has notified us
of the unsafe condition described in the
EASA AD. We are issuing this AD
because we evaluated all information
provided by EASA and determined the
unsafe condition exists and is likely to
exist or develop on other helicopters of
these same type designs and that air
safety and the public interest require
adopting the AD requirements as
proposed, except we have removed the
PO 00000
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words ‘‘with a main gearbox installed’’
from the applicability paragraph
because that language is unnecessary.
This minor change is consistent with
the intent of the proposals in the NPRM
and will not increase the economic
burden on any operator nor increase the
scope of the AD.
Differences Between This AD and the
EASA AD
The EASA AD requires inspecting the
anchoring fittings for ‘‘PR sealing
compound’’ within 15 flight hours,
while this AD requires inspecting
within 30 hours TIS. The EASA AD
applies to the Model SA–365C3, and
this AD does not include this model
because it does not have an FAA-issued
type certificate. This AD does not allow
the compliance times provided in
Appendix 1 of the EASA AD, since it is
desirable to accomplish any required
repairs before further flight.
Related Service Information
Eurocopter has issued one Emergency
Alert Service Bulletin (EASB), Revision
0, dated May 7, 2008, with five different
numbers. EASB No. 63.00.17 is for the
Model AS 365-series helicopters; EASB
No. 63.00.12 is for the military Model
AS 565-series helicopters, which are not
FAA type certificated; EASB No.
63A011 is for the Model EC 155-series
helicopters; EASB No. 65.03 is for the
Model SA 366-series helicopters; and
EASB No. 65.47 is for the Model SA
365-series helicopters and the non-FAA
type certificated Model SA 360-series
helicopters. The EASB specifies
inspecting for ‘‘PR sealing compound’’
on the lower parts of the MGB
anchoring fittings, removing any ‘‘PR
sealing compound,’’ and repairing any
corrosion. EASA classified this EASB as
mandatory and issued AD No. 2011–
0127 to ensure the continued
airworthiness of these helicopters.
Costs of Compliance
We estimate that this AD will affect
31 helicopters of U.S. Registry. We
estimate that operators may incur the
following costs in order to comply with
this AD. Inspecting the anchor fittings
for sealing compound and corrosion
will require about 0.5 work hour at an
average labor rate of $85 per hour, for
a cost per helicopter of about $43 and
a cost to the entire U.S. fleet of $1,318.
Removing any sealing compound and
repairing any corrosion damage will
require about 8 work hours at an average
labor rate of $85 per hour, for a cost per
helicopter of $680.
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Federal Register / Vol. 78, No. 6 / Wednesday, January 9, 2013 / Rules and Regulations
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
helicopters identified in this rulemaking
action.
Regulatory Findings
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 this AD:
(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);
(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 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.
srobinson on DSK4SPTVN1PROD with
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:
■
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Authority: 49 U.S.C. 106(g), 40113, 44701.
§ 39.13
[Amended]
2. The FAA amends § 39.13 by adding
the following new airworthiness
directive (AD):
■
2012–26–10 Eurocopter France Helicopters:
Amendment 39–17305; Docket No.
FAA–2012–0632; Directorate Identifier
2011–SW–044–AD.
(a) Applicability
This AD applies to Eurocopter France
(Eurocopter) Model SA–365N, SA–365N1,
AS–365N2, AS 365 N3, EC 155B, EC155B1,
SA–366G1, SA–365C, SA–365C1, and SA–
365C2 helicopters, certificated in any
category.
(b) Unsafe Condition
This AD defines the unsafe condition as
corrosion on the main gearbox (MGB) casing
lower area between the servo-control
anchoring ribs, caused by sealing compound
on the lower part of the fitting/casing
attachment. This condition could result in a
crack, failure of the MGB, and subsequent
loss of control of the helicopter.
(c) Effective Date
This AD becomes effective February 13,
2013.
(d) 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.
(e) Required Actions
(1) Within 30 hours time-in-service,
inspect the lower parts of the MGB servocontrol anchoring fittings (anchor fittings) for
sealing compound, referring to Figure 1 of
Eurocopter Emergency Alert Service Bulletin
No. 63.00.17 (for Models SA–365N, SA–
365N1, AS–365N2 and AS 365 N3); No.
63A011 (for Models EC 155B and EC155B1);
No. 65.03 (for Model SA–366G1); and No.
65.47 (for Models SA–365C, SA–365C1, and
SA–365C2), Revision 0, dated May 7, 2008
(EASB).
Note 1 to paragraph (e)(1): The Eurocopter
EASB is one document with multiple EASB
numbers, each applicable to different base
model Eurocopter helicopters.
(2) If there is sealing compound on the
lower part of an MGB anchor fitting, remove
the sealing compound and inspect for
corrosion in the lower area of the MGB
casing.
(i) If there is corrosion, before further
flight, repair the corrosion area.
(ii) If there is no corrosion, apply touch up
protective treatment, if required, and renew
the bead of any damaged sealing compound
in the upper part of the anchor fitting.
(f) Alternative Methods of Compliance
(AMOCs)
(1) The Manager, Safety Management
Group, FAA, may approve AMOCs for this
AD. Send your proposal to: Rao Edupuganti,
Aviation Safety Engineer, Regulations and
Policy Group, Rotorcraft Directorate, FAA,
PO 00000
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1741
2601 Meacham Blvd., Fort Worth, Texas
76137; telephone (817) 222–4389; email:
rao.edupaganti@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.
(g) Additional Information
(1) Eurocopter Repair Sheet 365–63–36–08,
dated April 4, 2008, and Standard Practices
Manual (MTC) Work Cards 20.04.04,
20.04.05, and 20.05.01, which are not
incorporated by reference, contain additional
information regarding the subject of this AD
and in particular regarding the procedures for
corrosion repair, protective treatment touchup, and renewing the damaged sealing bead.
For service information identified in this AD,
contact American Eurocopter Corporation,
2701 Forum Drive, Grand Prairie, Texas
75053–4005, telephone (800) 232–0323, fax
(972) 641–3710, or at https://
www.eurocopter.com. 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.
(2) The subject of this AD is addressed in
European Aviation Safety Agency AD No.
2011–0127, dated July 1, 2011.
(h) Subject
Joint Aircraft Service Component (JASC)
Code: 6320: Main Rotor Gearbox.
(i) Material Incorporated by Reference
(1) The Director of the Federal Register
approved the incorporation by reference
(IBR) of the service information listed in this
paragraph under 5 U.S.C. 552(a) and 1 CFR
part 51.
(2) You must use this service information
as applicable to do the actions required by
this AD, unless the AD specifies otherwise.
(i) Eurocopter Emergency Alert Service
Bulletin No. 63.00.17, Revision 0, dated May
7, 2008.
(ii) Eurocopter Emergency Alert Service
Bulletin No. 63A011, Revision 0, dated May
7, 2008.
(iii) Eurocopter Emergency Alert Service
Bulletin No. 65.03, Revision 0, dated May 7,
2008.
(iv) Eurocopter Emergency Alert Service
Bulletin No. 65.47, Revision 0, dated May 7,
2008.
Note 2 to paragraph (i)(2): Eurocopter
Emergency Alert Service Bulletin (ASB) Nos.
63.00.17, 63A011, 65.03, and 65.47, all
Revision 0, and all dated May 7, 2008 are copublished as one document along with
Eurocopter Emergency ASB No. 63.00.12,
Revision 0, dated May 7, 2008, which is not
incorporated by reference in this AD.
(3) For Eurocopter service information
identified in this AD, contact American
Eurocopter Corporation, 2701 Forum Drive,
Grand Prairie, Texas 75053–4005, telephone
(800) 232–0323, fax (972) 641–3710, or at
https://www.eurocopter.com.
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Federal Register / Vol. 78, No. 6 / Wednesday, January 9, 2013 / Rules and Regulations
(4) You may view this service information
at FAA, Office of the Regional Counsel,
Southwest Region, 2601 Meacham Blvd.,
Room 663, Fort Worth, Texas 76137. For
information on the availability of this
material at the FAA, call (817) 222–5110.
(5) You may view this service information
that is incorporated by reference at the
National Archives and Records
Administration (NARA). For information on
the availability of this material at NARA, call
(202) 741–6030, or go to: https://
www.archives.gov/federal-register/cfr/ibrlocations.html.
Issued in Fort Worth, Texas, on December
20, 2012.
Kim Smith,
Directorate Manager, Rotorcraft Directorate,
Aircraft Certification Service.
[FR Doc. 2012–31682 Filed 1–8–13; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE 4910–13–P
DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION
Federal Aviation Administration
14 CFR Part 71
[Docket No. FAA–2011–1237; Airspace
Docket No. 08–AWA–5]
RIN 2120–AA66
Amendment to Class B Airspace;
Atlanta, GA
Federal Aviation
Administration (FAA), DOT.
ACTION: Final rule.
AGENCY:
This action modifies the
Atlanta, GA, Class B airspace area to
ensure the containment of large turbinepowered aircraft operating to and from
the Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta
International Airport (ATL). The FAA is
taking this action to enhance safety and
reduce the potential for midair collision
in the Atlanta, GA, terminal area.
DATES: Effective Date: 0901 UTC, March
7, 2013. The Director of the Federal
Register approves this incorporation by
reference action under 1 CFR part 51,
subject to the annual revision of FAA
Order 7400.9 and publication of
conforming amendments.
FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Paul
Gallant, Airspace Policy and ATC
Procedures Group, Office of Airspace
Services, Federal Aviation
Administration, 800 Independence
Avenue SW., Washington, DC 20591;
telephone: (202) 267–8783.
SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION:
srobinson on DSK4SPTVN1PROD with
SUMMARY:
History
On February 3, 2012, the FAA
published in the Federal Register a
notice of proposed rulemaking (NPRM)
to modify the Atlanta, GA, Class B
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16:13 Jan 08, 2013
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airspace area (77 FR 5429). Interested
parties were invited to participate in
this rulemaking effort by submitting
written comments on the proposal. A
total of 159 commenters responded to
the NPRM. The FAA considered all
comments received before making a
determination on this final rule.
Discussion of Comments
Of the 159 responses received, 135
concerned the airspace in the vicinity of
Dekalb-Peachtree Airport (PDK). All of
these commenters opposed the Class B
modification in the vicinity of PDK
contending that it would result in lower
flight paths for ATL arrivals, and PDK
arrivals and departures, thus leading to
various adverse impacts, such as:
increased noise, increased air pollution
and health problems, lower property
values, detrimental effect on local
businesses, decreased tax revenues due
to lower property value and decreased
commerce, inability to sell homes and
decreased quality of life.
The above perceived impacts appear
to be based on the belief that the Class
B change would lead to IFR flights
operating at lower altitudes than they do
today. This is incorrect. The Class B
modifications, including those in the
PDK area, are based on the need to
contain IFR aircraft that are now
operating below Class B airspace. It is
important to note that existing IFR
operating altitudes will not change.
Noise concerns were a recurring
theme in the PDK-related comments, in
that the main concern was that lowering
the floor of the Class B airspace would
allow more aircraft to fly lower over
residential areas. The vast majority of
the noise experienced by these residents
is caused by aircraft flying at or below
3,000 feet MSL during takeoff and/or
landing operations at the PDK airport.
Those aircraft will continue to fly at
those altitudes regardless of any changes
made in the Atlanta Class B airspace. In
addition, an FAA study done in
response to comments at the Informal
Airspace Meetings, held in 2010, shows
that almost 98 percent of the aircraft
that fly in the vicinity of PDK are
already operating below 5,000 feet MSL.
Therefore, lowering the floor of the
Class B airspace will not have an
appreciable effect on the amount of
noise experienced by the residents in
neighborhoods surrounding PDK.
Further, the FAA is not changing air
traffic procedures. Where IFR aircraft fly
today is where they will continue to fly
after implementation of the Class B
modification. This rule addresses the
issue that these aircraft are currently
operating at altitudes that are below the
floor of the existing Class B airspace. In
PO 00000
Frm 00030
Fmt 4700
Sfmt 4700
order to minimize the potential for
midair collisions in the Atlanta terminal
area, FAA directives require that large
turbine powered aircraft arriving at and
departing from the primary airport (in
this case, ATL) be contained within
Class B airspace. Since the routes and
altitudes that ATL IFR arrivals and
departures are currently flying will not
change, there will not be an increase of
over-flights or noise from what residents
in the PDK area are already
experiencing today. Aircraft operating to
and from Hartsfield will not begin flying
lower over residential areas near PDK
Airport due to lowering the Class B
floor.
The commenters also contend that the
Class B changes would increase IFR
delays for PDK departures and arrivals,
resulting in wasted fuel and increased
operating costs as well as causing PDK
IFR arrivals to circle over the
neighborhoods while waiting to land.
The FAA does not agree. Today, PDK
IFR departures are initially cleared to
climb to the highest available altitude,
typically 5,000 feet MSL, but sometimes
lower based on other traffic. These
aircraft climb at their normal rate until
reaching their assigned altitude, so even
if an aircraft is cleared to 4,000 feet
instead of 5,000 feet, its initial rate of
climb would be the same and there
would be no increased impact on the
ground that might be caused by a slower
climb rate. Lowering the floor of the
Class B in the vicinity of PDK will not
alter this practice, since 5,000 feet will
continue to be assigned by the satellite
controller. PDK IFR arrivals operate on
final approach at minimum altitudes
that are based on obstacle clearance
criteria and descent profiles defined by
instrument procedure design standards.
These IFR procedure altitudes cannot be
lowered. Additionally, the established
VFR traffic patterns at the satellite
airports are not changing due to this
rule.
ATL arrivals currently fly in the PDK
area at 6,000 feet today and they will
continue to operate at that altitude after
the Class B change. The purpose of
lowering the floor to 5,000 feet in the
PDK area is to contain, within Class B
airspace, the ATL departures that are
now flying at 5,000 feet underneath the
arrivals. Since arrivals and departures at
both ATL and PDK will continue to
operate at the same altitudes as they do
today, none of the above listed impacts
would occur as a result of the Class B
airspace modification.
However, in view of the large number
of comments received, and the Ad Hoc
Committee recommendation concerning
the Class B changes near PDK, we
explored the possibility of modifying
E:\FR\FM\09JAR1.SGM
09JAR1
]]>Agencies
[Federal Register Volume 78, Number 6 (Wednesday, January 9, 2013)]
[Rules and Regulations]
[Pages 1739-1742]
From the Federal Register Online via the Government Printing Office [www.gpo.gov]
[FR Doc No: 2012-31682]
-----------------------------------------------------------------------
DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION
Federal Aviation Administration
14 CFR Part 39
[Docket No. FAA-2012-0632; Directorate Identifier 2011-SW-044-AD;
Amendment 39-17305; AD 2012-26-10]
RIN 2120-AA64
Airworthiness Directives; Eurocopter France Helicopters
AGENCY: Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), DOT.
ACTION: Final rule.
-----------------------------------------------------------------------
SUMMARY: We are adopting a new airworthiness directive (AD) for all
Eurocopter France (Eurocopter) Model SA-365N, SA-365N1, AS-365N2, AS
365 N3, EC 155B, EC155B1, SA-365C, SA-365C1, SA-365C2, and SA-366G1
helicopters. This AD requires inspecting portions of the main gearbox
(MGB) for the presence of sealing compound and corrosion. This AD was
prompted by reports of corrosion on the main MGB casing lower area
between the two servo-control anchoring fitting attachment ribs. An
investigation determined that the corrosion was associated with sealing
compound on the lower part of the fitting/casing attachment. The
actions in this AD are intended to detect corrosion on the MGB casing,
which could lead to a crack, failure of the MGB, and subsequent loss of
control of the helicopter.
DATES: This AD is effective February 13, 2013.
[[Page 1740]]
The Director of the Federal Register approved the incorporation by
reference of certain documents listed in this AD as of February 13,
2013.
ADDRESSES: For service information identified in this AD, contact
American Eurocopter Corporation, 2701 Forum Drive, Grand Prairie, Texas
75053-4005, telephone (800) 232-0323, fax (972) 641-3710, or at https://www.eurocopter.com. You may review the referenced service information
at the FAA, Office of the Regional Counsel, Southwest Region, 2601
Meacham Blvd., Room 663, Fort Worth, Texas 76137.
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 AD, any incorporated-by-reference
service information, the economic evaluation, any comments received,
and other information. The street address for the Docket Operations
Office (phone: 800-647-5527) is U.S. Department of Transportation,
Docket Operations Office, M-30, West Building Ground Floor, Room W12-
140, 1200 New Jersey Avenue SE., Washington, DC 20590.
FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Rao Edupuganti, Aviation Safety
Engineer, Regulations and Policy Group, Rotorcraft Directorate, FAA,
2601 Meacham Blvd., Fort Worth, Texas 76137; telephone (817) 222-4389;
email: rao.edupaganti@faa.gov.
SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION:
Discussion
On June 18, 2012, at 77 FR 36220, the Federal Register published
our notice of proposed rulemaking (NPRM), which proposed to amend 14
CFR part 39 to include an AD that would apply to Eurocopter Model SA-
365N, SA-365N1, AS-365N2, AS 365 N3, EC 155B, EC155B1, SA-366G1, SA-
365C, SA-365C1, and SA-365C2 helicopters, with an MGB installed. That
NPRM proposed to require inspecting the lower parts of the MGB casing
anchoring fittings for sealing compound, and if there is sealing
compound on the lower parts of the anchoring fittings, removing the
sealing compound and inspecting the anchoring fittings for corrosion.
If there is corrosion, the NPRM proposed repairing the affected area.
If there is no corrosion, the NPRM proposed applying touch up
protective treatment and renewing any damaged sealing compound bead in
the lower part of the anchoring fitting.
The proposed requirements were intended to detect corrosion on the
MGB casing, which could lead to a crack, failure of the MGB, and
subsequent loss of control of the helicopter.
The European Aviation Safety Agency (EASA), which is the Technical
Agent for the Member States of the European Union, has issued AD No.:
2011-0127, dated July 1, 2011 (AD No. 2011-0127), which supersedes
Directorate General for Civil Aviation (DGAC France) AD F-2008-04,
dated June 4, 2008, for the Eurocopter Model EC 155 B, EC 155 B1, SA
365 N, SA 365 N1, AS 365 N2, AS 365 N3, SA 366 G1, SA 365 C, SA 365 C1,
SA 365 C2, and SA 365 C3 helicopters with a MGB, all part numbers, that
was delivered before December 5, 2007, installed on helicopters
delivered before December 5, 2007, or overhauled or repaired before
September 30, 2008. EASA states that in 2008, it received two reports
of atmospheric corrosion on the MGB casing lower area of two
helicopters between the two servo-control anchoring fitting attachment
ribs. The investigation showed that the corrosion occurred in this area
due to the presence of ``PR sealing compound'' on the lower part of the
fitting/casing attachment. The ``PR sealing compound'' may have been
applied incorrectly on some helicopters due to a misinterpretation of
the Eurocopter documentation during installation. EASA states that this
condition, if not corrected, could lead to ``crack initiation and crack
growth in the affected area of the casing,'' which could cause this
area to fail and result in loss of control of the helicopter.
Comments
We gave the public the opportunity to participate in developing
this AD, but we did not receive any comments on the NPRM (77 FR 36220,
June 18, 2012).
FAA's Determination
These helicopters have been approved by the aviation authority of
France and are approved for operation in the United States. Pursuant to
our bilateral agreement with France, EASA, its technical
representative, has notified us of the unsafe condition described in
the EASA AD. We are issuing this AD because we evaluated all
information provided by EASA and determined the unsafe condition exists
and is likely to exist or develop on other helicopters of these same
type designs and that air safety and the public interest require
adopting the AD requirements as proposed, except we have removed the
words ``with a main gearbox installed'' from the applicability
paragraph because that language is unnecessary. This minor change is
consistent with the intent of the proposals in the NPRM and will not
increase the economic burden on any operator nor increase the scope of
the AD.
Differences Between This AD and the EASA AD
The EASA AD requires inspecting the anchoring fittings for ``PR
sealing compound'' within 15 flight hours, while this AD requires
inspecting within 30 hours TIS. The EASA AD applies to the Model SA-
365C3, and this AD does not include this model because it does not have
an FAA-issued type certificate. This AD does not allow the compliance
times provided in Appendix 1 of the EASA AD, since it is desirable to
accomplish any required repairs before further flight.
Related Service Information
Eurocopter has issued one Emergency Alert Service Bulletin (EASB),
Revision 0, dated May 7, 2008, with five different numbers. EASB No.
63.00.17 is for the Model AS 365-series helicopters; EASB No. 63.00.12
is for the military Model AS 565-series helicopters, which are not FAA
type certificated; EASB No. 63A011 is for the Model EC 155-series
helicopters; EASB No. 65.03 is for the Model SA 366-series helicopters;
and EASB No. 65.47 is for the Model SA 365-series helicopters and the
non-FAA type certificated Model SA 360-series helicopters. The EASB
specifies inspecting for ``PR sealing compound'' on the lower parts of
the MGB anchoring fittings, removing any ``PR sealing compound,'' and
repairing any corrosion. EASA classified this EASB as mandatory and
issued AD No. 2011-0127 to ensure the continued airworthiness of these
helicopters.
Costs of Compliance
We estimate that this AD will affect 31 helicopters of U.S.
Registry. We estimate that operators may incur the following costs in
order to comply with this AD. Inspecting the anchor fittings for
sealing compound and corrosion will require about 0.5 work hour at an
average labor rate of $85 per hour, for a cost per helicopter of about
$43 and a cost to the entire U.S. fleet of $1,318. Removing any sealing
compound and repairing any corrosion damage will require about 8 work
hours at an average labor rate of $85 per hour, for a cost per
helicopter of $680.
[[Page 1741]]
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 helicopters identified in this
rulemaking action.
Regulatory Findings
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 this AD:
(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);
(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 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.
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. The FAA amends Sec. 39.13 by adding the following new airworthiness
directive (AD):
2012-26-10 Eurocopter France Helicopters: Amendment 39-17305; Docket
No. FAA-2012-0632; Directorate Identifier 2011-SW-044-AD.
(a) Applicability
This AD applies to Eurocopter France (Eurocopter) Model SA-365N,
SA-365N1, AS-365N2, AS 365 N3, EC 155B, EC155B1, SA-366G1, SA-365C,
SA-365C1, and SA-365C2 helicopters, certificated in any category.
(b) Unsafe Condition
This AD defines the unsafe condition as corrosion on the main
gearbox (MGB) casing lower area between the servo-control anchoring
ribs, caused by sealing compound on the lower part of the fitting/
casing attachment. This condition could result in a crack, failure
of the MGB, and subsequent loss of control of the helicopter.
(c) Effective Date
This AD becomes effective February 13, 2013.
(d) 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.
(e) Required Actions
(1) Within 30 hours time-in-service, inspect the lower parts of
the MGB servo-control anchoring fittings (anchor fittings) for
sealing compound, referring to Figure 1 of Eurocopter Emergency
Alert Service Bulletin No. 63.00.17 (for Models SA-365N, SA-365N1,
AS-365N2 and AS 365 N3); No. 63A011 (for Models EC 155B and
EC155B1); No. 65.03 (for Model SA-366G1); and No. 65.47 (for Models
SA-365C, SA-365C1, and SA-365C2), Revision 0, dated May 7, 2008
(EASB).
Note 1 to paragraph (e)(1): The Eurocopter EASB is one document
with multiple EASB numbers, each applicable to different base model
Eurocopter helicopters.
(2) If there is sealing compound on the lower part of an MGB
anchor fitting, remove the sealing compound and inspect for
corrosion in the lower area of the MGB casing.
(i) If there is corrosion, before further flight, repair the
corrosion area.
(ii) If there is no corrosion, apply touch up protective
treatment, if required, and renew the bead of any damaged sealing
compound in the upper part of the anchor fitting.
(f) Alternative Methods of Compliance (AMOCs)
(1) The Manager, Safety Management Group, FAA, may approve AMOCs
for this AD. Send your proposal to: Rao Edupuganti, Aviation Safety
Engineer, Regulations and Policy Group, Rotorcraft Directorate, FAA,
2601 Meacham Blvd., Fort Worth, Texas 76137; telephone (817) 222-
4389; email: rao.edupaganti@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.
(g) Additional Information
(1) Eurocopter Repair Sheet 365-63-36-08, dated April 4, 2008,
and Standard Practices Manual (MTC) Work Cards 20.04.04, 20.04.05,
and 20.05.01, which are not incorporated by reference, contain
additional information regarding the subject of this AD and in
particular regarding the procedures for corrosion repair, protective
treatment touch-up, and renewing the damaged sealing bead. For
service information identified in this AD, contact American
Eurocopter Corporation, 2701 Forum Drive, Grand Prairie, Texas
75053-4005, telephone (800) 232-0323, fax (972) 641-3710, or at
https://www.eurocopter.com. 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.
(2) The subject of this AD is addressed in European Aviation
Safety Agency AD No. 2011-0127, dated July 1, 2011.
(h) Subject
Joint Aircraft Service Component (JASC) Code: 6320: Main Rotor
Gearbox.
(i) Material Incorporated by Reference
(1) The Director of the Federal Register approved the
incorporation by reference (IBR) of the service information listed
in this paragraph under 5 U.S.C. 552(a) and 1 CFR part 51.
(2) You must use this service information as applicable to do
the actions required by this AD, unless the AD specifies otherwise.
(i) Eurocopter Emergency Alert Service Bulletin No. 63.00.17,
Revision 0, dated May 7, 2008.
(ii) Eurocopter Emergency Alert Service Bulletin No. 63A011,
Revision 0, dated May 7, 2008.
(iii) Eurocopter Emergency Alert Service Bulletin No. 65.03,
Revision 0, dated May 7, 2008.
(iv) Eurocopter Emergency Alert Service Bulletin No. 65.47,
Revision 0, dated May 7, 2008.
Note 2 to paragraph (i)(2): Eurocopter Emergency Alert Service
Bulletin (ASB) Nos. 63.00.17, 63A011, 65.03, and 65.47, all Revision
0, and all dated May 7, 2008 are co-published as one document along
with Eurocopter Emergency ASB No. 63.00.12, Revision 0, dated May 7,
2008, which is not incorporated by reference in this AD.
(3) For Eurocopter service information identified in this AD,
contact American Eurocopter Corporation, 2701 Forum Drive, Grand
Prairie, Texas 75053-4005, telephone (800) 232-0323, fax (972) 641-
3710, or at https://www.eurocopter.com.
[[Page 1742]]
(4) You may view this service information at FAA, Office of the
Regional Counsel, Southwest Region, 2601 Meacham Blvd., Room 663,
Fort Worth, Texas 76137. For information on the availability of this
material at the FAA, call (817) 222-5110.
(5) You may view this service information that is incorporated
by reference at the National Archives and Records Administration
(NARA). For information on the availability of this material at
NARA, call (202) 741-6030, or go to: https://www.archives.gov/federal-register/cfr/ibr-locations.html.
Issued in Fort Worth, Texas, on December 20, 2012.
Kim Smith,
Directorate Manager, Rotorcraft Directorate, Aircraft Certification
Service.
[FR Doc. 2012-31682 Filed 1-8-13; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE 4910-13-P
