Airworthiness Directives; Bell Helicopter Textron Canada Limited (Bell) Model Helicopters, 27869-27872 [2013-11240]

Download as PDF Federal Register / Vol. 78, No. 92 / Monday, May 13, 2013 / Proposed Rules 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. (b) Unsafe Condition This AD defines the unsafe condition as the tail rotor blade pitch horn (pitch horn) separating from the tail rotor blade, leading to an unbalanced condition, vibration, loss of tail rotor pitch control and loss of directional control of the helicopter. (c) Affected ADs This AD supersedes AD No. 2003–08–51, Amendment 39–13215 (68 FR 39449, July 2, 2003; correction 68 FR 47447, August 11, 2003). (d) Comments Due Date Comments are due July 12, 2013. (e) 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. MD Helicopters, Inc.: Docket No. FAA–2013– 0401; Directorate Identifier 2012–SW– 047–AD. (f) Required Actions (1) Before further flight, for each applicable blade, revise the Airworthiness Limitations section of the maintenance manual to reflect that the blade has a retirement life of 400 hours time-in-service (TIS). (2) For helicopters with an applicable blade installed that has 390 through 700 hours TIS, within 10 hours TIS, replace the blade with an airworthy blade. (3) For all other applicable helicopters, within 60 days, and thereafter at intervals not to exceed one year, remove the paint from the blade pitch control arm in accordance with the Accomplishment Instructions, Section 2.A.(1) through 2.A.(3), of MDHI Service Bulletin SB369D–210/SB369E–105/SB369F– 091/SB369H–252, dated November 21, 2011 (MDHI SB). (i) Using a 10X or higher power magnifying glass, inspect all four sides and the pocket of the blade pitch control arm for a crack, pitting, or corrosion and for the condition of the dimpled shot peen surface by referring to Figure 1 of the MDHI SB and by reviewing the rotorcraft maintenance records to determine whether rework was done in this area. (ii) If there is pitting, corrosion, a crack, blending or removal of any of the dimpled shot peen surface, or any indication that the shot peen has not been done, replace the blade with an airworthy blade. (iii) If there is no pitting, corrosion, cracks, or blending or removal of any of the dimpled shot peen surface, refinish the stripped pitch control arm in accordance with the Accomplishment Instructions, Section 2.A.(6) through 2.A.(7), of the MDHI SB. (a) Applicability This AD applies to MD Helicopters, Inc., (MDHI) Model 369A, 369D, 369E, 369H, 369HE, 369HM, 369HS, 369F and 369FF helicopters with a tail rotor blade (blade) part number (P/N) 369D21640–501, 369D21640– 503, 369D21641–501, 369D21641–503, 369D21642–501, 369D21642–503, (g) Alternative Methods of Compliance (AMOCs) (1) The Manager, Los Angeles Aircraft Certification Office, FAA, may approve AMOCs for this AD. Send your proposal to: Fred Guerin, Aviation Safety Engineer, Los Angeles Aircraft Certification Office, Transport Airplane Directorate, FAA, 3960 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. § 39.13 [Amended] 2. The FAA amends § 39.13 by removing Amendment 39–13215 (68 FR 39449, August 11, 2003), and adding the following new airworthiness directive (AD): ■ emcdonald on DSK67QTVN1PROD with PROPOSALS 369D21643–501, or 369D21643–503 installed, or with a Helicopter Technology Company blade P/N 500P3100–101, 500P3100–301, 500P3300–501, or 500P3500– 701 installed, certificated in any category. VerDate Mar<15>2010 14:16 May 10, 2013 Jkt 229001 PO 00000 Frm 00006 Fmt 4702 Sfmt 4702 27869 Paramount Blvd., Lakewood, California 90712; telephone (562) 627–5232; email fred.guerin@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. (3) AMOCs approved previously in accordance with AD No. 2003–08–51 (68 FR 39449, July 2, 2003; correction 68 FR 47447, August 11, 2003) are approved as AMOCs for the corresponding requirements in this AD. (h) Additional Information MD Helicopters Inc. maintenance manuals CSP–HMI2, TR12–001, CHP–H–4, and TR12– 001, which are not incorporated by reference, contain additional information about the subject of this AD. For service information identified in this AD, contact MD Helicopters, Inc., Attn: Customer Support Division, 4555 E. McDowell Rd., Mail Stop M615, Mesa, AZ 85215–9734; telephone 1– 800–388–3378; fax 480–346–6813; email serviceengineering@mdhelicopters.com; Web site https://www.mdhelicopters.com or contact Helicopter Technology Company, 12923 South Spring Street, Los Angeles, CA 90061; telephone 310–523–2750; email gburdorf@helicoptertech.com; Web site www.helicoptertech.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. (i) Subject Joint Aircraft Service Component (JASC) Code: 6410. Issued in Fort Worth, Texas, on April 26, 2013. Kim Smith, Directorate Manager, Rotorcraft Directorate, Aircraft Certification Service. [FR Doc. 2013–11237 Filed 5–10–13; 8:45 am] BILLING CODE 4910–13–P DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION Federal Aviation Administration 14 CFR Part 39 [Docket No. FAA–2013–0400; Directorate Identifier 2009–SW–48–AD] RIN 2120–AA64 Airworthiness Directives; Bell Helicopter Textron Canada Limited (Bell) Model Helicopters Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), DOT. ACTION: Notice of proposed rulemaking (NPRM). AGENCY: SUMMARY: We propose to adopt a new airworthiness directive (AD) for Bell E:\FR\FM\13MYP1.SGM 13MYP1 27870 Federal Register / Vol. 78, No. 92 / Monday, May 13, 2013 / Proposed Rules emcdonald on DSK67QTVN1PROD with PROPOSALS Model 206A, 206B, 206L, 206L–1, 206L–3, 206L–4, 222, 222B, 222U, 230, 407, 427, and 430 helicopters. This proposed AD would require inspecting each bearing to determine if it has been properly staked and replacing the bearing or assembly if it has not been staked properly. This proposed AD is prompted by bearings not being staked as required and migrating out of their proper position, which may limit the functionality of the affected part. The proposed actions are intended to prevent failure of a bearing and the assembly in which it is installed and subsequent loss of control of the helicopter. DATES: We must receive comments on this proposed AD by July 12, 2013. 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. Meacham Blvd., Fort Worth, Texas 76137; telephone (817) 222–5110; email sharon.y.miles@faa.gov. SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: 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 Bell Helicopter Textron Canada Limited, 12,800 Rue de l’Avenir, Mirabel, Quebec J7J1R4, telephone (450) 437–2862 or (800) 363–8023, fax (450) 433–0272, or at https://www.bellcustomer.com/files/. 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. FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Sharon Miles, Aviation Safety Engineer, Regulations and Policy Group, Rotorcraft Directorate, FAA, 2601 Discussion Transport Canada, which is the aviation authority for Canada, has issued Canadian AD No. CF–2009–32, dated July 24, 2009, to correct an unsafe condition for the specified Bell model helicopters. Transport Canada advises that some bearings may not have been staked as required, which may limit the proper functioning of the affected part. Bell, the helicopter manufacturer, received two reports stating that a bearing migrated out of a flight control lever. Investigation revealed that, although the inspection witness mark was applied to the part, the bearing had not been staked during manufacturing. Affected parts were associated with a single Bell supplier. Review of the supplier’s manufacturing and quality process indicates inspection of additional parts is necessary. VerDate Mar<15>2010 14:16 May 10, 2013 Jkt 229001 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. FAA’s Determination These helicopters have been approved by the aviation authority of Canada and are approved for operation in the United States. Pursuant to our bilateral agreement with Canada, Transport Canada has notified us of the unsafe condition described in its AD. We are PO 00000 Frm 00007 Fmt 4702 Sfmt 4702 proposing this AD because we evaluated all known relevant information and determined that an unsafe condition is likely to exist or develop on other helicopters of these same type designs. Related Service Information Bell has issued Alert Service Bulletin (ASB) No. 206–09–122 for Model 206A/ B series; No. 206L–09–156 for Model 206L series; No. 222–09–107 for Model 222 and 222B; No. 222U–09–78 for Model 222U; No. 230–09–39 for Model 230; No. 407–09–88 for Model 407; No. 427–09–25 for Model 427; and No. 430– 09–42, for Model 430, all dated April 7, 2009. The ASBs specify inspecting for parts that contain bearings that have not been staked. Proposed AD Requirements This proposed AD would require using a 10X or higher power magnifying glass or a boroscope to inspect each bearing in each affected part to determine if each bearing has been properly staked. This proposed AD would only require parts that contain a serial number with a prefix of ‘‘TI’’ or ‘‘TIFS,’’ or parts without a serial number even if the part has a supplier marking with a circle around a ‘‘T.M.’’ over a ‘‘1,’’ to be inspected. If you cannot access the part to determine if the bearing is properly staked, this proposed AD would require removing the part from the helicopter to inspect it. Costs of Compliance We estimate that this proposed AD would affect about 2,601 helicopters of U.S. registry. Based on an average labor rate of $85 per work-hour, we estimate that operators may incur the following costs in order to comply with this AD. It would take about 1 to 5 work-hours per helicopter, depending on the model, to inspect for properly staked bearings. Replacing a bearing would require about 2 work-hours and would cost $3,306 for required parts. Based on an average inspection time of 2 work-hours, we estimate the cost of this proposed AD to inspect the helicopters would be $170 per helicopter and $442,170 for the U.S. operator fleet. Replacing a bearing would cost $3,476 per helicopter. 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. E:\FR\FM\13MYP1.SGM 13MYP1 Federal Register / Vol. 78, No. 92 / Monday, May 13, 2013 / Proposed Rules 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 product(s) identified in this rulemaking action. emcdonald on DSK67QTVN1PROD with PROPOSALS 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 VerDate Mar<15>2010 14:16 May 10, 2013 Jkt 229001 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 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 airworthiness directive (AD): ■ Bell Helicopter Textron Canada Limited: Docket No. FAA–2013–0400; Directorate Identifier 2009–SW–48–AD. (a) Applicability This AD applies to Model 206A, 206B, 206L, 206L–1, 206L–3, 206L–4, 222, 222B, 222U, 230, 407, 427, and 430 helicopters as follows, certificated in any category. (1) Model 206A, Model 206B helicopters converted from Model 206A, and Model 206B with Bellcrank Assembly, part-number (P/N) 206–001–526–001 or 206–001–538– 009; Idler Link Assembly, P/N 206–010–336– 109; or Link Assembly, P/N 206–031–589– 001, installed. (2) Model 206L, Model 206L–1, Model 206L–3, and Model 206L–4 with Idler Assembly, P/N 206–001–549–101; Bellcrank Assembly, P/N 206–001–552–001; or Link Assembly, P/N 206–010–336–109, installed. (3) Model 222 and Model 222B with (i) Cyclic Link Assembly, P/N 222–010– 419–110; or (ii) Bellcrank Assembly Directional Controls, P/N 222–001–734–001 or 222–001– 736–005, installed. (4) Model 222U with (i) Cyclic Link Assembly, P/N 222–010– 419–110; or (ii) Bellcrank Assembly Directional Controls, P/N 222–001–734–001 or 222–001– 736–005, installed. (5) Model 230 with (i) Fitting Assembly Engine Bipod Mount, P/N 230–060–113–101, 230–060–113–102, 230–060–114–101, or 230–060–114–102; Cyclic Link Assembly P/N 222–010–419–110; or (ii) Bellcrank Assembly Directional Controls, P/N 222–001–734–001, or 222– 001–736–005, installed. (6) Model 407 with (i) Bearing and Liner Assembly, P/N 406– 010–417–101; Cyclic Mixer Follower Assembly, P/N 407–001–325–101; Bellcrank Assembly, P/N 407–001–524–105, 407–001– 524–109, 407–001–526–105, 407–001–526– PO 00000 Frm 00008 Fmt 4702 Sfmt 4702 27871 109, 407–001–528–101, or 407–001–528–105; or (ii) Beam Assembly, P/N 407–001–723– 101, installed. (7) Model 427 with Swashplate Lateral Link Assembly (upper and lower bearing), P/N 427–001–021–101; Swashplate Longitudinal Link Assembly (upper and lower bearing), P/N 427–001–022–101; Transmission Mounted Longitudinal Bellcrank Assembly (pivot bearing), P/N 427– 001–521–105/–109; Transmission Mounted Lateral Bellcrank Assembly (pivot bearing), P/N 427–001–520–109/–113; or Bearing and Liner (lower drive link bearing), P/N 406– 010–417–109, installed. (8) Model 427 with Tail Rotor Actuator Output Idler, P/N 427–001–723–101, installed. (9) Model 430 with (i) Fitting Assembly Engine Bipod Mount, P/N 230–060–113–101, 230–060–113–102, 230–060–114–101, or 230–060–114–102; Bearing Assembly M/R Rotating Controls, P/N 430–010–449–101; Rod End Assembly Lift link, P/N 430–010–204–101 or 430–010– 204–103, or (ii) Bellcrank Assembly Directional Controls, P/N 222–001–734–001, or 222– 001–736–005, installed. (b) Unsafe Condition This AD defines the unsafe condition as bearings that may not have been staked as required and may migrate out of their proper position and limit the functionality of the affected part. This condition could result in failure of a bearing and the lever assembly in which it is installed and subsequent loss of control of the helicopter. (c) Comments Due Date We must receive comments by July 12, 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) Perform each action required by this AD within the compliance time for each part listed in the applicability paragraph of this AD as follows: (a)(1), (a)(2), (a)(6)(i), (a)(7), and (a)(8), within 10 hours time-in-service (TIS) or 30 days, whichever occurs first; (a)(3)(i), (a)(4)(i), (a)(5)(i), and (a)(9)(i), within 5 hours TIS or 30 days, whichever occurs first; (a)(3)(ii), (a)(4)(ii), (a)(5)(ii), and (a)(9)(ii) within 150 hours TIS or 12 months, whichever occurs first; and (a)(6)(ii) within 300 hours TIS or 12 months, whichever occurs first. (2) Using a 10X or higher power magnifying glass or using a boroscope, inspect each bearing and determine if the bearing has been properly staked for each part that contains a part serial number with a prefix of either ‘‘TI’’ or ‘‘TIFS.’’ (i) If a part does not contain a serial number, inspect the bearing of that part even if that part contains a supplier marking. (ii) If you cannot access the bearing while the part is installed on the helicopter to make a determination as to whether the bearing in E:\FR\FM\13MYP1.SGM 13MYP1 27872 Federal Register / Vol. 78, No. 92 / Monday, May 13, 2013 / Proposed Rules the part is properly staked, remove the part and inspect the bearing using a 10X or higher power magnifying glass or using a boroscope. (iii) If you find a part that is not properly staked, replace the bearing or the assembly with an airworthy bearing or assembly before further flight. (f) Alternative Methods of Compliance (AMOCs) (1) The Manager, Safety Management Group, FAA, may approve AMOCs for this AD. Send your proposal to Sharon Miles, ASW–111, Aviation Safety Engineer, Rotorcraft Directorate, Regulations and Guidance Group, 2601 Meacham Blvd., Fort Worth, Texas 76137, telephone (817) 222– 5110, email sharon.y.miles@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) Bell Alert Service Bulletin (ASB) No. 206–09–122 for Models 206A and 206B; No. 206L–09–156 for Models 206L, 206L–1, 206L–3, and 206L–4; No. 222–09–107 for Models 222 and 222B; No. 222U–09–78 for Model 222U; No. 230–09–39 for Model 230; No. 407–09–88 for Model 407; No. 427–09– 25 for Model 427; and No. 430–09–42 for Model 430, all dated April 7, 2009, which are not incorporated by reference, contain additional information about the subject of this AD. For service information identified in this proposed AD, contact Bell Helicopter Textron Canada Limited, 12,800 Rue de l’Avenir, Mirabel, Quebec J7J1R4, telephone (450) 437–2862 or (800) 363–8023, fax (450) 433–0272, or at https:// www.bellcustomer.com/files/. 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. (2) The subject of this AD is addressed in Transport Canada AD No. CF–2009–32, dated July 24, 2009. (h) Subject emcdonald on DSK67QTVN1PROD with PROPOSALS Joint Aircraft System/Component (JASC) Code: 6700 Rotorcraft Flight Controls and 6710 Main Rotor Control. Issued in Fort Worth, Texas, on April 26, 2013. Kim Smith, Directorate Manager, Rotorcraft Directorate, Aircraft Certification Service. [FR Doc. 2013–11240 Filed 5–10–13; 8:45 am] BILLING CODE 4910–13–P VerDate Mar<15>2010 14:16 May 10, 2013 Jkt 229001 DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION Federal Aviation Administration 14 CFR Part 71 [Docket No. FAA–2012–1303; Airspace Docket No. 12–ANM–29] Proposed Amendment of Class E Airspace; Salt Lake City, UT Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), DOT. ACTION: Notice of proposed rulemaking (NPRM). AGENCY: SUMMARY: This action proposes to modify Class E airspace at Salt Lake City International Airport, Salt Lake City, UT. Controlled airspace is necessary to accommodate aircraft using Area Navigation (RNAV) Global Positioning System (GPS) and Instrument Landing System (ILS) or Localizer (LOC) standard instrument approach procedures at the airport. The FAA is proposing this action to enhance the safety and management of aircraft operations at Salt Lake City International Airport. This action also would adjust the geographic coordinates of the airport. DATES: Comments must be received on or before June 27, 2013. ADDRESSES: Send comments on this proposal 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; telephone (202) 366–9826. You must identify FAA Docket No. FAA–2012–1303; Airspace Docket No. 12–ANM–29, at the beginning of your comments. You may also submit comments through the Internet at https://www.regulations.gov. FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Eldon Taylor, Federal Aviation Administration, Operations Support Group, Western Service Center, 1601 Lind Avenue SW., Renton, WA 98057; telephone (425) 203–4537. SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: Comments Invited Interested parties are invited to participate in this proposed rulemaking by submitting such written data, views, or arguments, as they may desire. Comments that provide the factual basis supporting the views and suggestions presented are particularly helpful in developing reasoned regulatory decisions on the proposal. Comments are specifically invited on the overall regulatory, aeronautical, economic, environmental, and energy-related aspects of the proposal. PO 00000 Frm 00009 Fmt 4702 Sfmt 4702 Communications should identify both docket numbers (FAA Docket No. FAA 2012–1303 and Airspace Docket No. 12– ANM–29) and be submitted in triplicate to the Docket Management System (see ADDRESSES section for address and phone number). You may also submit comments through the Internet at https:// www.regulations.gov. Commenters wishing the FAA to acknowledge receipt of their comments on this action must submit with those comments a self-addressed stamped postcard on which the following statement is made: ‘‘Comments to FAA Docket No. FAA–2012–1303 and Airspace Docket No. 12–ANM–29’’. The postcard will be date/time stamped and returned to the commenter. All communications received on or before the specified closing date for comments will be considered before taking action on the proposed rule. The proposal contained in this action may be changed in light of comments received. All comments submitted will be available for examination in the public docket both before and after the closing date for comments. A report summarizing each substantive public contact with FAA personnel concerned with this rulemaking will be filed in the docket. Availability of NPRMs An electronic copy of this document may be downloaded through the Internet at https://www.regulations.gov. Recently published rulemaking documents can also be accessed through the FAA’s Web page at https:// www.faa.gov/airports_airtraffic/ air_traffic/publications/ airspace_amendments/. You may review the public docket containing the proposal, any comments received, and any final disposition in person in the Dockets Office (see the ADDRESSES section for the address and phone number) between 9:00 a.m. and 5:00 p.m., Monday through Friday, except federal holidays. An informal docket may also be examined during normal business hours at the Northwest Mountain Regional Office of the Federal Aviation Administration, Air Traffic Organization, Western Service Center, Operations Support Group, 1601 Lind Avenue SW., Renton, WA 98057. Persons interested in being placed on a mailing list for future NPRMs should contact the FAA’s Office of Rulemaking, (202) 267–9677, for a copy of Advisory Circular No. 11–2A, Notice of Proposed Rulemaking Distribution System, which describes the application procedure. E:\FR\FM\13MYP1.SGM 13MYP1

Agencies

[Federal Register Volume 78, Number 92 (Monday, May 13, 2013)]
[Proposed Rules]
[Pages 27869-27872]
From the Federal Register Online via the Government Printing Office [www.gpo.gov]
[FR Doc No: 2013-11240]


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DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION

Federal Aviation Administration

14 CFR Part 39

[Docket No. FAA-2013-0400; Directorate Identifier 2009-SW-48-AD]
RIN 2120-AA64


Airworthiness Directives; Bell Helicopter Textron Canada Limited 
(Bell) Model Helicopters

AGENCY: Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), DOT.

ACTION: Notice of proposed rulemaking (NPRM).

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SUMMARY: We propose to adopt a new airworthiness directive (AD) for 
Bell

[[Page 27870]]

Model 206A, 206B, 206L, 206L-1, 206L-3, 206L-4, 222, 222B, 222U, 230, 
407, 427, and 430 helicopters. This proposed AD would require 
inspecting each bearing to determine if it has been properly staked and 
replacing the bearing or assembly if it has not been staked properly. 
This proposed AD is prompted by bearings not being staked as required 
and migrating out of their proper position, which may limit the 
functionality of the affected part. The proposed actions are intended 
to prevent failure of a bearing and the assembly in which it is 
installed and subsequent loss of control of the helicopter.

DATES: We must receive comments on this proposed AD by July 12, 2013.

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 
Bell Helicopter Textron Canada Limited, 12,800 Rue de l'Avenir, 
Mirabel, Quebec J7J1R4, telephone (450) 437-2862 or (800) 363-8023, fax 
(450) 433-0272, or at https://www.bellcustomer.com/files/. 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.

FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Sharon Miles, Aviation Safety 
Engineer, Regulations and Policy Group, Rotorcraft Directorate, FAA, 
2601 Meacham Blvd., Fort Worth, Texas 76137; telephone (817) 222-5110; 
email sharon.y.miles@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

    Transport Canada, which is the aviation authority for Canada, has 
issued Canadian AD No. CF-2009-32, dated July 24, 2009, to correct an 
unsafe condition for the specified Bell model helicopters. Transport 
Canada advises that some bearings may not have been staked as required, 
which may limit the proper functioning of the affected part. Bell, the 
helicopter manufacturer, received two reports stating that a bearing 
migrated out of a flight control lever. Investigation revealed that, 
although the inspection witness mark was applied to the part, the 
bearing had not been staked during manufacturing. Affected parts were 
associated with a single Bell supplier. Review of the supplier's 
manufacturing and quality process indicates inspection of additional 
parts is necessary.

FAA's Determination

    These helicopters have been approved by the aviation authority of 
Canada and are approved for operation in the United States. Pursuant to 
our bilateral agreement with Canada, Transport Canada has notified us 
of the unsafe condition described in its AD. We are proposing this AD 
because we evaluated all known relevant information and determined that 
an unsafe condition is likely to exist or develop on other helicopters 
of these same type designs.

Related Service Information

    Bell has issued Alert Service Bulletin (ASB) No. 206-09-122 for 
Model 206A/B series; No. 206L-09-156 for Model 206L series; No. 222-09-
107 for Model 222 and 222B; No. 222U-09-78 for Model 222U; No. 230-09-
39 for Model 230; No. 407-09-88 for Model 407; No. 427-09-25 for Model 
427; and No. 430-09-42, for Model 430, all dated April 7, 2009. The 
ASBs specify inspecting for parts that contain bearings that have not 
been staked.

Proposed AD Requirements

    This proposed AD would require using a 10X or higher power 
magnifying glass or a boroscope to inspect each bearing in each 
affected part to determine if each bearing has been properly staked. 
This proposed AD would only require parts that contain a serial number 
with a prefix of ``TI'' or ``TIFS,'' or parts without a serial number 
even if the part has a supplier marking with a circle around a ``T.M.'' 
over a ``1,'' to be inspected. If you cannot access the part to 
determine if the bearing is properly staked, this proposed AD would 
require removing the part from the helicopter to inspect it.

Costs of Compliance

    We estimate that this proposed AD would affect about 2,601 
helicopters of U.S. registry. Based on an average labor rate of $85 per 
work-hour, we estimate that operators may incur the following costs in 
order to comply with this AD. It would take about 1 to 5 work-hours per 
helicopter, depending on the model, to inspect for properly staked 
bearings. Replacing a bearing would require about 2 work-hours and 
would cost $3,306 for required parts. Based on an average inspection 
time of 2 work-hours, we estimate the cost of this proposed AD to 
inspect the helicopters would be $170 per helicopter and $442,170 for 
the U.S. operator fleet. Replacing a bearing would cost $3,476 per 
helicopter.

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.

[[Page 27871]]

    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 product(s) identified in this 
rulemaking action.

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 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):

Bell Helicopter Textron Canada Limited: Docket No. FAA-2013-0400; 
Directorate Identifier 2009-SW-48-AD.

(a) Applicability

    This AD applies to Model 206A, 206B, 206L, 206L-1, 206L-3, 206L-
4, 222, 222B, 222U, 230, 407, 427, and 430 helicopters as follows, 
certificated in any category.
    (1) Model 206A, Model 206B helicopters converted from Model 
206A, and Model 206B with Bellcrank Assembly, part-number (P/N) 206-
001-526-001 or 206-001-538-009; Idler Link Assembly, P/N 206-010-
336-109; or Link Assembly, P/N 206-031-589-001, installed.
    (2) Model 206L, Model 206L-1, Model 206L-3, and Model 206L-4 
with Idler Assembly, P/N 206-001-549-101; Bellcrank Assembly, P/N 
206-001-552-001; or Link Assembly, P/N 206-010-336-109, installed.
    (3) Model 222 and Model 222B with
    (i) Cyclic Link Assembly, P/N 222-010-419-110; or
    (ii) Bellcrank Assembly Directional Controls, P/N 222-001-734-
001 or 222-001-736-005, installed.
    (4) Model 222U with
    (i) Cyclic Link Assembly, P/N 222-010-419-110; or
    (ii) Bellcrank Assembly Directional Controls, P/N 222-001-734-
001 or 222-001-736-005, installed.
    (5) Model 230 with
    (i) Fitting Assembly Engine Bipod Mount, P/N 230-060-113-101, 
230-060-113-102, 230-060-114-101, or 230-060-114-102; Cyclic Link 
Assembly P/N 222-010-419-110; or
    (ii) Bellcrank Assembly Directional Controls, P/N 222-001-734-
001, or 222-001-736-005, installed.
    (6) Model 407 with
    (i) Bearing and Liner Assembly, P/N 406-010-417-101; Cyclic 
Mixer Follower Assembly, P/N 407-001-325-101; Bellcrank Assembly, P/
N 407-001-524-105, 407-001-524-109, 407-001-526-105, 407-001-526-
109, 407-001-528-101, or 407-001-528-105; or
    (ii) Beam Assembly, P/N 407-001-723-101, installed.
    (7) Model 427 with Swashplate Lateral Link Assembly (upper and 
lower bearing), P/N 427-001-021-101; Swashplate Longitudinal Link 
Assembly (upper and lower bearing), P/N 427-001-022-101; 
Transmission Mounted Longitudinal Bellcrank Assembly (pivot 
bearing), P/N 427-001-521-105/-109; Transmission Mounted Lateral 
Bellcrank Assembly (pivot bearing), P/N 427-001-520-109/-113; or 
Bearing and Liner (lower drive link bearing), P/N 406-010-417-109, 
installed.
    (8) Model 427 with Tail Rotor Actuator Output Idler, P/N 427-
001-723-101, installed.
    (9) Model 430 with
    (i) Fitting Assembly Engine Bipod Mount, P/N 230-060-113-101, 
230-060-113-102, 230-060-114-101, or 230-060-114-102; Bearing 
Assembly M/R Rotating Controls, P/N 430-010-449-101; Rod End 
Assembly Lift link, P/N 430-010-204-101 or 430-010-204-103, or
    (ii) Bellcrank Assembly Directional Controls, P/N 222-001-734-
001, or 222-001-736-005, installed.

(b) Unsafe Condition

    This AD defines the unsafe condition as bearings that may not 
have been staked as required and may migrate out of their proper 
position and limit the functionality of the affected part. This 
condition could result in failure of a bearing and the lever 
assembly in which it is installed and subsequent loss of control of 
the helicopter.

(c) Comments Due Date

    We must receive comments by July 12, 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) Perform each action required by this AD within the 
compliance time for each part listed in the applicability paragraph 
of this AD as follows: (a)(1), (a)(2), (a)(6)(i), (a)(7), and 
(a)(8), within 10 hours time-in-service (TIS) or 30 days, whichever 
occurs first; (a)(3)(i), (a)(4)(i), (a)(5)(i), and (a)(9)(i), within 
5 hours TIS or 30 days, whichever occurs first; (a)(3)(ii), 
(a)(4)(ii), (a)(5)(ii), and (a)(9)(ii) within 150 hours TIS or 12 
months, whichever occurs first; and (a)(6)(ii) within 300 hours TIS 
or 12 months, whichever occurs first.
    (2) Using a 10X or higher power magnifying glass or using a 
boroscope, inspect each bearing and determine if the bearing has 
been properly staked for each part that contains a part serial 
number with a prefix of either ``TI'' or ``TIFS.''
    (i) If a part does not contain a serial number, inspect the 
bearing of that part even if that part contains a supplier marking.
    (ii) If you cannot access the bearing while the part is 
installed on the helicopter to make a determination as to whether 
the bearing in

[[Page 27872]]

the part is properly staked, remove the part and inspect the bearing 
using a 10X or higher power magnifying glass or using a boroscope.
    (iii) If you find a part that is not properly staked, replace 
the bearing or the assembly with an airworthy bearing or assembly 
before further flight.

 (f) Alternative Methods of Compliance (AMOCs)

    (1) The Manager, Safety Management Group, FAA, may approve AMOCs 
for this AD. Send your proposal to Sharon Miles, ASW-111, Aviation 
Safety Engineer, Rotorcraft Directorate, Regulations and Guidance 
Group, 2601 Meacham Blvd., Fort Worth, Texas 76137, telephone (817) 
222-5110, email sharon.y.miles@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) Bell Alert Service Bulletin (ASB) No. 206-09-122 for Models 
206A and 206B; No. 206L-09-156 for Models 206L, 206L-1, 206L-3, and 
206L-4; No. 222-09-107 for Models 222 and 222B; No. 222U-09-78 for 
Model 222U; No. 230-09-39 for Model 230; No. 407-09-88 for Model 
407; No. 427-09-25 for Model 427; and No. 430-09-42 for Model 430, 
all dated April 7, 2009, which are not incorporated by reference, 
contain additional information about the subject of this AD. For 
service information identified in this proposed AD, contact Bell 
Helicopter Textron Canada Limited, 12,800 Rue de l'Avenir, Mirabel, 
Quebec J7J1R4, telephone (450) 437-2862 or (800) 363-8023, fax (450) 
433-0272, or at https://www.bellcustomer.com/files/. 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.
    (2) The subject of this AD is addressed in Transport Canada AD 
No. CF-2009-32, dated July 24, 2009.

(h) Subject

    Joint Aircraft System/Component (JASC) Code: 6700 Rotorcraft 
Flight Controls and 6710 Main Rotor Control.

    Issued in Fort Worth, Texas, on April 26, 2013.
Kim Smith,
Directorate Manager, Rotorcraft Directorate, Aircraft Certification 
Service.
[FR Doc. 2013-11240 Filed 5-10-13; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE 4910-13-P

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