Airworthiness Directives; Lindstrand Hot Air Balloons Ltd Appliances, 9785-9787 [2013-02720]

Download as PDF Federal Register / Vol. 78, No. 29 / Tuesday, February 12, 2013 / Rules and Regulations 10–00–198, Engine Support Beam, specified in Canadair Challenger TR 5–261, dated May 31, 2011, to the Canadair Challenger TLMC Manual, PSP 601A–5. (4) For Model CL–600–2B16 (CL–604 Variant) airplanes: Task 53–30–00–155, Detailed Inspection of the Engine Support Beam, specified in Bombardier Challenger 604 TR 5–2–47, dated May 31, 2011, to the Bombardier Challenger 604 TLMC Manual; or Task 53–30–00–155, Detailed Inspection of the Engine Support Beam, specified in Bombardier Challenger 605 TR 5–2–9, dated May 31, 2011, to the Bombardier Challenger 605 TLMC Manual. (h) Initial Compliance Times for Inspections The initial compliance time for the inspections specified in the temporary revisions specified in paragraphs (g)(1) through (g)(4) of this AD is before the accumulation of 7,800 total flight cycles, or within 12 months after the effective date of this AD, whichever occurs later. (i) No Alternative Actions or Intervals After accomplishing the revision required by paragraph (g) of this AD, no alternative actions (e.g., inspections) or intervals may be used unless the actions or intervals are approved as an alternative method of compliance (AMOC) in accordance with the procedures specified in paragraph (j) of this AD. pmangrum on DSK3VPTVN1PROD with RULES (j) Other FAA AD Provisions The following provisions also apply to this AD: (1) Alternative Methods of Compliance (AMOCs): The Manager, New York Aircraft Certification Office, ANE–170, 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 ACO, send it to ATTN: Program Manager, Continuing Operational Safety, FAA, New York ACO, 1600 Stewart Avenue, Suite 410, Westbury, New York 11590; telephone 516–228–7300; fax 516–794–5531. 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. The AMOC approval letter must specifically reference 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. (l) 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) Canadair Challenger Temporary Revision 5–151, dated May 31, 2011, to the Canadair Challenger Time Limits/ Maintenance Checks Manual, PSP 605. (ii) Canadair Challenger Temporary Revision 5–250, dated May 31, 2011, to the Canadair Challenger Time Limits/ Maintenance Checks Manual, PSP 601–5. (iii) Canadair Challenger Temporary Revision 5–261, dated May 31, 2011, to the Canadair Challenger Time Limits/ Maintenance Checks Manual, PSP 601A–5. (iv) Bombardier Challenger 604 Temporary Revision 5–2–47, dated May 31, 2011, to the Bombardier Challenger 604 Time Limits/ Maintenance Checks Manual. (v) Bombardier Challenger 605 Temporary Revision 5–2–9, dated May 31, 2011, to the Bombardier Challenger 605 Time Limits/ Maintenance Checks Manual. (3) For service information identified in ˆ this AD, contact Bombardier, Inc., 400 Cote´ Vertu Road West, Dorval, Quebec H4S 1Y9, Canada; telephone 514–855–5000; fax 514– 855–7401; email thd.crj@aero.bombardier.com; Internet https:// www.bombardier.com. (4) You may review copies of the service information at the 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 January 30, 2013. Ali Bahrami, Manager, Transport Airplane Directorate, Aircraft Certification Service. [FR Doc. 2013–02724 Filed 2–11–13; 8:45 am] BILLING CODE 4910–13–P (k) Related Information Refer to MCAI Canadian Airworthiness Directive CF–2011–33, dated August 16, 2011, and the temporary revisions specified in paragraphs (g)(1) through (g)(4) of this AD, for related information. VerDate Mar<15>2010 16:31 Feb 11, 2013 Jkt 229001 PO 00000 Frm 00009 Fmt 4700 Sfmt 4700 9785 DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION Federal Aviation Administration 14 CFR Part 39 [Docket No. FAA–2012–1134; Directorate Identifier 2012–CE–034–AD; Amendment 39–17345; AD 2013–03–10] RIN 2120–AA64 Airworthiness Directives; Lindstrand Hot Air Balloons Ltd Appliances Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), Department of Transportation (DOT). ACTION: Final rule. AGENCY: We are adopting a new airworthiness directive (AD) for certain Lindstrand Hot Air Balloons Ltd female ACME threaded hose connectors, part numbers HS6139 and HS6144, installed on balloons. This AD results from mandatory continuing airworthiness information (MCAI) issued 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 insufficient tightness of the threaded hose connector in the assembly area that could result in fuel leakage. We are issuing this AD to require actions to address the unsafe condition on these products. DATES: This AD is effective March 19, 2013. The Director of the Federal Register approved the incorporation by reference of a certain publication listed in the AD as of March 19, 2013. ADDRESSES: You may examine the AD docket on the Internet at https:// www.regulations.gov or in person at Document Management Facility, U.S. Department of Transportation, Docket Operations, M–30, West Building Ground Floor, Room W12–140, 1200 New Jersey Avenue SE., Washington, DC 20590. For service information identified in this AD, contact Lindstrand Hot Air Balloons Ltd, Maesbury Road, Oswestry, Shropshire SY10 8ZZ, The United Kingdom; telephone: +44 (0) 1691– 671717; fax: +44 (0) 1691–671122; email: simon@lindstrand.co.uk; Internet: https://www.lindstrand.co.uk/. 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. FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Taylor Martin, Aerospace Engineer, SUMMARY: E:\FR\FM\12FER1.SGM 12FER1 9786 Federal Register / Vol. 78, No. 29 / Tuesday, February 12, 2013 / Rules and Regulations FAA, Small Airplane Directorate, 901 Locust, Room 301, Kansas City, Missouri 64106; telephone: (816) 329– 4138; fax: (816) 329–4090; email: taylor.martin@faa.gov. SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: Discussion We issued a notice of proposed rulemaking (NPRM) to amend 14 CFR part 39 to include an AD that would apply to the specified products. That NPRM was published in the Federal Register on October 23, 2012 (77 FR 64763). That NPRM proposed to correct an unsafe condition for the specified products. The MCAI states: pmangrum on DSK3VPTVN1PROD with RULES Three incidents were reported where the female ACME threaded connectors (Rego type) was leaking when connected to the gas cylinder with the cylinder valve turned on. The results of the technical investigations revealed the possibility that other similar connectors produced between 01 January 2011 and 01 September 2011 might not have been assembled with sufficient tightness. A list of potentially affected connectors has been drawn up Table 1 of this AD. A list of burners and manifolds on which it is already known that an affected connector has been installed is provided in Table 2 of this AD. This condition, if not detected and corrected, could result, in case of an ignition source, in a fire hazard that could damage the balloon and its envelope, ultimately leading to a forced emergency landing, during which balloon occupants and persons on the ground could be injured. To address this potential unsafe condition, Lindstrand Hot Air Balloons Ltd. (who manufactured the hose assemblies) issued Service Bulletin (SB) N° 12, which, for the affected parts, requires accomplishment of an inspection of the female ACME thread hose connectors. For the reasons described above, EASA issued AD 2012–0142, to require an inspection of the female ACME thread hose connectors for leakage, and, depending on findings, to re-torque the connectors using correct values. Since that AD was issued, it has been determined that the pilot-owner of the balloon can accomplish the inspection of the affected parts to identify the leak. In addition, the risk assessment has been reconsidered, which has led to the conclusion that the compliance time for the inspection can be extended to 60 days after the effective date of the date at original issue. Similarly, as most of the parts have now been inspected and, depending on findings, corrected, it was possible to delete paragraph (3) from the AD, dealing with spare parts. Although the European Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) MCAI allows the pilot-owner to do the inspection and correction required in paragraphs (f)(1), (f)(2), and (f)(3) of this AD, the U.S. regulatory system requires all actions of this AD be done by a certified mechanic. VerDate Mar<15>2010 15:05 Feb 11, 2013 Jkt 229001 Comments We gave the public the opportunity to participate in developing this AD. The following presents the comments received on the proposal and the FAA’s response to each comment. Request To Change Applicability or Withdraw NPRM Phil A. Thompson, President of ARBC, Inc. dba/Lindstrand Balloons USA, requests we reduce the applicability of the AD or withdraw the NPRM. The commenter states that the unsafe condition applies to only the specific female ACME threaded hose connectors, part numbers HS6139 and HS6144, produced during a certain time period. The FAA disagrees with reducing the applicability or withdrawing the NPRM. While we agree that the unsafe condition exists only on the specific female ACME threaded hose connectors, part numbers HS6139 and HS6144; we cannot determine which balloons have the defective parts installed. We also cannot determine the exact serial numbers produced during the certain time period referenced by the commenter to limit the applicability to parts produced during that time period. Neither the FAA nor EASA has received any documentation to prove that the defective parts are limited to the 23 parts referenced by the commenter. We have not changed the final rule AD action based on this comment. Conclusion We reviewed the relevant data, considered the comment received, and determined that air safety and the public interest require adopting the AD as proposed except for minor editorial changes. We have determined that these minor changes: • Are consistent with the intent that was proposed in the NPRM (77 FR 64763, October 23, 2012) for correcting the unsafe condition; and • Do not add any additional burden upon the public than was already proposed in the NPRM (77 FR 64763, October 23, 2012). Costs of Compliance We estimate that this AD will affect 2,170 products of U.S. registry. We also estimate that it would take about .5 work-hour per product to comply with the basic requirements of this AD. The average labor rate is $85 per work-hour. Based on these figures, we estimate the cost of the AD on U.S. operators to be $92,225, or $42.50 per product. In addition, we estimate that any necessary follow-on actions would take about .5 work-hour. We have no way of PO 00000 Frm 00010 Fmt 4700 Sfmt 4700 determining the number of products that may need these actions. 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 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 this AD: (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. 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 the NPRM, 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. E:\FR\FM\12FER1.SGM 12FER1 Federal Register / Vol. 78, No. 29 / Tuesday, February 12, 2013 / Rules and Regulations List of Subjects in 14 CFR Part 39 Air transportation, Aircraft, Aviation safety, Incorporation by reference, Safety. Adoption of the Amendment Accordingly, under the authority delegated to me by the Administrator, the FAA amends 14 CFR part 39 as follows: PART 39—AIRWORTHINESS DIRECTIVES 1. The authority citation for part 39 continues to read as follows: ■ Authority: 49 U.S.C. 106(g), 40113, 44701. § 39.13 [Amended] 2. The FAA amends § 39.13 by adding the following new AD: ■ 2013–03–10 Lindstrand Hot Air Balloons Ltd: Amendment 39–17345; Docket No. FAA–2012–1134; Directorate Identifier 2012–CE–034–AD. (a) Effective Date This airworthiness directive (AD) becomes effective March 19, 2013. (b) Affected ADs None. (c) Applicability This AD applies to all hot air balloons, certificated in any category, equipped with Lindstrand Hot Air Balloons Ltd female ACME threaded hose connectors, part numbers (P/Ns) HS6139 and HS6144, all serial numbers. (d) Subject Air Transport Association of America (ATA) Code 14: Hardware. pmangrum on DSK3VPTVN1PROD with RULES (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 insufficient tightness of the threaded hose connector in the assembly area that could result in fuel leakage. We are issuing this AD to detect and correct insufficient tightness of the threaded hose connector in the assembly area. This condition, if not corrected, could result in fuel leakage and lead to an inflight fire. (f) Actions and Compliance Unless already done, do the following actions: (1) Within the next 60 days after March 19, 2013 (the effective date of this AD), inspect the female ACME threaded hose connectors, (P/Ns) HS6139 and HS6144, for leaking following the Accomplishment Instructions of Lindstrand Hot Air Balloons Ltd Service Bulletin No. 12, Issue 2, dated May 10, 2012. (2) If fuel leakage is detected in the inspection required in paragraph (f)(1) of this AD, before further flight, tighten the threaded VerDate Mar<15>2010 15:05 Feb 11, 2013 Jkt 229001 hose connector to the correct torque following Lindstrand Hot Air Balloons Ltd Service Bulletin No. 12, Issue 2, dated May 10, 2012. (3) If, after March 19, 2013 (the effective date of this AD), you install on any balloon an ACME threaded hose connector, (P/Ns) HS6139 or HS6144, manufactured by Lindstrand Hot Air Balloons Ltd and supplied as a spare part between January 1, 2011, and September 1, 2011, before further flight, you must comply with the actions of this AD. (4) Although the European Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) MCAI allows the pilot-owner to do the inspection and correction required in paragraphs (f)(1), (f)(2), and (f)(3) of this AD, the U.S. regulatory system requires all actions of this AD be done by a certified mechanic. (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: Taylor Martin, Aerospace Engineer, FAA, Small Airplane Directorate, 901 Locust, Room 301, Kansas City, Missouri 64106; telephone: (816) 329–4138; fax: (816) 329– 4090; email: taylor.martin@faa.gov. 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. (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. (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 AD 12–053, dated May 25, 2012; and PO 00000 Frm 00011 Fmt 4700 Sfmt 4700 9787 Lindstrand Hot Air Balloons Ltd Service Bulletin No. 12, Issue 2, dated May 10, 2012, for related information. (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) Lindstrand Hot Air Balloons Ltd Service Bulletin No. 12, Issue 2, dated May 10, 2012. (ii) Reserved. (3) For Lindstrand Hot Air Balloons Ltd service information identified in this AD, contact Lindstrand Hot Air Balloons Ltd, Maesbury Road, Oswestry, Shropshire SY10 8ZZ, The United Kingdom; telephone: +44 (0) 1691–671717; fax: +44 (0) 1691–671122; email: simon@lindstrand.co.uk; Internet: https://www.lindstrand.co.uk/. (4) You may review this 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. (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/ index.html. Issued in Kansas City, Missouri, on February 1, 2013. Earl Lawrence, Manager, Small Airplane Directorate, Aircraft Certification Service. [FR Doc. 2013–02720 Filed 2–11–13; 8:45 am] BILLING CODE 4910–13–P DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION Federal Aviation Administration 14 CFR Part 39 [Docket No. FAA–2012–1070; Directorate Identifier 2012–NM–099–AD; Amendment 39–17340; AD 2013–03–05] RIN 2120–AA64 Airworthiness Directives; Airbus Airplanes Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), Department of Transportation (DOT). ACTION: Final rule. AGENCY: We are adopting a new airworthiness directive (AD) for all Airbus Model A300 B4–600, B4–600R, and F4–600R series airplanes, and Model A300 C4–605R Variant F airplanes (collectively called Model A300–600 series airplanes); and Airbus SUMMARY: E:\FR\FM\12FER1.SGM 12FER1

Agencies

[Federal Register Volume 78, Number 29 (Tuesday, February 12, 2013)]
[Rules and Regulations]
[Pages 9785-9787]
From the Federal Register Online via the Government Printing Office [www.gpo.gov]
[FR Doc No: 2013-02720]


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

DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION

Federal Aviation Administration

14 CFR Part 39

[Docket No. FAA-2012-1134; Directorate Identifier 2012-CE-034-AD; 
Amendment 39-17345; AD 2013-03-10]
RIN 2120-AA64


Airworthiness Directives; Lindstrand Hot Air Balloons Ltd 
Appliances

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

ACTION: Final rule.

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

SUMMARY: We are adopting a new airworthiness directive (AD) for certain 
Lindstrand Hot Air Balloons Ltd female ACME threaded hose connectors, 
part numbers HS6139 and HS6144, installed on balloons. This AD results 
from mandatory continuing airworthiness information (MCAI) issued 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 insufficient tightness of the threaded hose connector in 
the assembly area that could result in fuel leakage. We are issuing 
this AD to require actions to address the unsafe condition on these 
products.

DATES: This AD is effective March 19, 2013.
    The Director of the Federal Register approved the incorporation by 
reference of a certain publication listed in the AD as of March 19, 
2013.

ADDRESSES: You may examine the AD docket on the Internet at https://www.regulations.gov or in person at Document Management Facility, U.S. 
Department of Transportation, Docket Operations, M-30, West Building 
Ground Floor, Room W12-140, 1200 New Jersey Avenue SE., Washington, DC 
20590.
    For service information identified in this AD, contact Lindstrand 
Hot Air Balloons Ltd, Maesbury Road, Oswestry, Shropshire SY10 8ZZ, The 
United Kingdom; telephone: +44 (0) 1691-671717; fax: +44 (0) 1691-
671122; email: simon@lindstrand.co.uk; Internet: https://www.lindstrand.co.uk/. 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.

FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Taylor Martin, Aerospace Engineer,

[[Page 9786]]

FAA, Small Airplane Directorate, 901 Locust, Room 301, Kansas City, 
Missouri 64106; telephone: (816) 329-4138; fax: (816) 329-4090; email: 
taylor.martin@faa.gov.

SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: 

Discussion

    We issued a notice of proposed rulemaking (NPRM) to amend 14 CFR 
part 39 to include an AD that would apply to the specified products. 
That NPRM was published in the Federal Register on October 23, 2012 (77 
FR 64763). That NPRM proposed to correct an unsafe condition for the 
specified products. The MCAI states:

    Three incidents were reported where the female ACME threaded 
connectors (Rego type) was leaking when connected to the gas 
cylinder with the cylinder valve turned on.
    The results of the technical investigations revealed the 
possibility that other similar connectors produced between 01 
January 2011 and 01 September 2011 might not have been assembled 
with sufficient tightness. A list of potentially affected connectors 
has been drawn up Table 1 of this AD. A list of burners and 
manifolds on which it is already known that an affected connector 
has been installed is provided in Table 2 of this AD.
    This condition, if not detected and corrected, could result, in 
case of an ignition source, in a fire hazard that could damage the 
balloon and its envelope, ultimately leading to a forced emergency 
landing, during which balloon occupants and persons on the ground 
could be injured.
    To address this potential unsafe condition, Lindstrand Hot Air 
Balloons Ltd. (who manufactured the hose assemblies) issued Service 
Bulletin (SB) N[deg] 12, which, for the affected parts, requires 
accomplishment of an inspection of the female ACME thread hose 
connectors.
    For the reasons described above, EASA issued AD 2012-0142, to 
require an inspection of the female ACME thread hose connectors for 
leakage, and, depending on findings, to re-torque the connectors 
using correct values.
    Since that AD was issued, it has been determined that the pilot-
owner of the balloon can accomplish the inspection of the affected 
parts to identify the leak. In addition, the risk assessment has 
been reconsidered, which has led to the conclusion that the 
compliance time for the inspection can be extended to 60 days after 
the effective date of the date at original issue. Similarly, as most 
of the parts have now been inspected and, depending on findings, 
corrected, it was possible to delete paragraph (3) from the AD, 
dealing with spare parts.

    Although the European Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) MCAI allows the 
pilot-owner to do the inspection and correction required in paragraphs 
(f)(1), (f)(2), and (f)(3) of this AD, the U.S. regulatory system 
requires all actions of this AD be done by a certified mechanic.

Comments

    We gave the public the opportunity to participate in developing 
this AD. The following presents the comments received on the proposal 
and the FAA's response to each comment.

Request To Change Applicability or Withdraw NPRM

    Phil A. Thompson, President of ARBC, Inc. dba/Lindstrand Balloons 
USA, requests we reduce the applicability of the AD or withdraw the 
NPRM. The commenter states that the unsafe condition applies to only 
the specific female ACME threaded hose connectors, part numbers HS6139 
and HS6144, produced during a certain time period.
    The FAA disagrees with reducing the applicability or withdrawing 
the NPRM. While we agree that the unsafe condition exists only on the 
specific female ACME threaded hose connectors, part numbers HS6139 and 
HS6144; we cannot determine which balloons have the defective parts 
installed. We also cannot determine the exact serial numbers produced 
during the certain time period referenced by the commenter to limit the 
applicability to parts produced during that time period. Neither the 
FAA nor EASA has received any documentation to prove that the defective 
parts are limited to the 23 parts referenced by the commenter.
    We have not changed the final rule AD action based on this comment.

Conclusion

    We reviewed the relevant data, considered the comment received, and 
determined that air safety and the public interest require adopting the 
AD as proposed except for minor editorial changes. We have determined 
that these minor changes:
     Are consistent with the intent that was proposed in the 
NPRM (77 FR 64763, October 23, 2012) for correcting the unsafe 
condition; and
     Do not add any additional burden upon the public than was 
already proposed in the NPRM (77 FR 64763, October 23, 2012).

Costs of Compliance

    We estimate that this AD will affect 2,170 products of U.S. 
registry. We also estimate that it would take about .5 work-hour per 
product to comply with the basic requirements of this AD. The average 
labor rate is $85 per work-hour.
    Based on these figures, we estimate the cost of the AD on U.S. 
operators to be $92,225, or $42.50 per product.
    In addition, we estimate that any necessary follow-on actions would 
take about .5 work-hour. We have no way of determining the number of 
products that may need these actions.

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 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 this AD:
    (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.

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 the NPRM, 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.

[[Page 9787]]

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 AD:

2013-03-10 Lindstrand Hot Air Balloons Ltd: Amendment 39-17345; 
Docket No. FAA-2012-1134; Directorate Identifier 2012-CE-034-AD.

(a) Effective Date

    This airworthiness directive (AD) becomes effective March 19, 
2013.

(b) Affected ADs

    None.

(c) Applicability

    This AD applies to all hot air balloons, certificated in any 
category, equipped with Lindstrand Hot Air Balloons Ltd female ACME 
threaded hose connectors, part numbers (P/Ns) HS6139 and HS6144, all 
serial numbers.

(d) Subject

    Air Transport Association of America (ATA) Code 14: Hardware.

(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 insufficient 
tightness of the threaded hose connector in the assembly area that 
could result in fuel leakage. We are issuing this AD to detect and 
correct insufficient tightness of the threaded hose connector in the 
assembly area. This condition, if not corrected, could result in 
fuel leakage and lead to an inflight fire.

 (f) Actions and Compliance

    Unless already done, do the following actions:
    (1) Within the next 60 days after March 19, 2013 (the effective 
date of this AD), inspect the female ACME threaded hose connectors, 
(P/Ns) HS6139 and HS6144, for leaking following the Accomplishment 
Instructions of Lindstrand Hot Air Balloons Ltd Service Bulletin No. 
12, Issue 2, dated May 10, 2012.
    (2) If fuel leakage is detected in the inspection required in 
paragraph (f)(1) of this AD, before further flight, tighten the 
threaded hose connector to the correct torque following Lindstrand 
Hot Air Balloons Ltd Service Bulletin No. 12, Issue 2, dated May 10, 
2012.
    (3) If, after March 19, 2013 (the effective date of this AD), 
you install on any balloon an ACME threaded hose connector, (P/Ns) 
HS6139 or HS6144, manufactured by Lindstrand Hot Air Balloons Ltd 
and supplied as a spare part between January 1, 2011, and September 
1, 2011, before further flight, you must comply with the actions of 
this AD.
    (4) Although the European Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) MCAI 
allows the pilot-owner to do the inspection and correction required 
in paragraphs (f)(1), (f)(2), and (f)(3) of this AD, the U.S. 
regulatory system requires all actions of this AD be done by a 
certified mechanic.

(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: Taylor Martin, Aerospace Engineer, FAA, Small 
Airplane Directorate, 901 Locust, Room 301, Kansas City, Missouri 
64106; telephone: (816) 329-4138; fax: (816) 329-4090; email: 
taylor.martin@faa.gov. 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.
    (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.
    (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 AD 12-053, dated 
May 25, 2012; and Lindstrand Hot Air Balloons Ltd Service Bulletin 
No. 12, Issue 2, dated May 10, 2012, for related information.

(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) Lindstrand Hot Air Balloons Ltd Service Bulletin No. 12, 
Issue 2, dated May 10, 2012.
    (ii) Reserved.
    (3) For Lindstrand Hot Air Balloons Ltd service information 
identified in this AD, contact Lindstrand Hot Air Balloons Ltd, 
Maesbury Road, Oswestry, Shropshire SY10 8ZZ, The United Kingdom; 
telephone: +44 (0) 1691-671717; fax: +44 (0) 1691-671122; email: 
simon@lindstrand.co.uk; Internet: https://www.lindstrand.co.uk/.
    (4) You may review this 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.
    (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/.

    Issued in Kansas City, Missouri, on February 1, 2013.
Earl Lawrence,
Manager, Small Airplane Directorate, Aircraft Certification Service.
[FR Doc. 2013-02720 Filed 2-11-13; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE 4910-13-P
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