Airworthiness Directives; Eurocopter Deutschland GmbH Model Helicopters, 30793-30795 [2013-12309]

Download as PDF Federal Register / Vol. 78, No. 100 / Thursday, May 23, 2013 / Proposed Rules (1) For Models Ka2B, Ka 6, Ka 6 B, Ka 6 BR, Ka 6 C, Ka 6 CR, K7, K8, and K 8 B: Unless already done, within the next 10 hours time–in–service (TIS) after April 13, 1964 (the effective date retained from AD 64– 07–05, Amendment 701 (29 FR 3227, March 1, 1964)), inspect the automatic elevator control rod for conformity following Alexander Schleicher Automatic Elevator Connection document, dated December 5, 1961. (2) For Models Ka2B, Ka 6, Ka 6 B, Ka 6 BR, Ka 6 C, Ka 6 CR, K7, K8, and K 8 B: If any discrepancy is found during the inspection required in paragraph (f)(1) of this AD, before further flight, make any necessary repairs or modification following Civil Aeronautics Manual (CAM) 18, dated February 11, 1936, which can be found at the following Web site: https://ntl1.special collection.net/scripts/ws.dll?websearch&site= dot_cams. (3) For Models Ka2B, K7, K8 and K 8 B: Unless already done, within the next 10 hours TIS after April 13, 1964 (the effective date retained from AD 64–07–05, Amendment 701 (29 FR 3227, March 1, 1964)), install an additional push pull rod support. For Models Ka2B, follow Alexander Schleicher Modification No. 7, dated July 4, 1962. For Models K7, follow Alexander Schleicher Modification No. 8, dated November 23, 1961. For Models K8, follow Alexander Schleicher Modification No. 7, dated November 24, 1961. (g) New Actions and Compliance Unless already done, do the following actions specified in paragraphs (g)(1) and (g)(2) of this AD. (1) For all models: Within 90 days after the effective date of this AD and repetitively thereafter at intervals not to exceed 12 months, inspect the elevator control rod in the tailplane following the Action section in Alexander Schleicher Technical Note for Ka 2 and Ka 2b–TM–Nr. 13, Ka 6–TM–Nr. 26, K 7–TM–Nr. 24, K 8–TM–Nr. 30, ASK 13–TM– Nr. 19, ASK 18–TM–Nr. 9, Revision 1, dated January 8, 2013. (2) For all models: During any inspection required in paragraph (g)(1) of this AD, if any bend and/or misaligned elevator control connection is detected, before further flight after the inspection, replace the elevator control connection with a serviceable part. Do the replacement following the Action section in Alexander Schleicher Technical Note for Ka 2 and Ka 2b–TM–Nr. 13, Ka 6–TM–Nr. 26, K 7–TM–Nr. 24, K 8–TM– Nr. 30, ASK 13–TM–Nr. 19, ASK 18–TM–Nr. 9, Revision 1, dated January 8, 2013. tkelley on DSK3SPTVN1PROD with PROPOSALS (h) Credit for Actions Done Following Previous Service Information This AD provides credit for the initial inspection required in paragraph (g)(1) of this AD and any necessary replacement required in paragraph (g)(2) of this AD if already done before the effective date of this AD following the Action sections in Alexander Schleicher Technical Note for Ka 2 and Ka 2b–TM–Nr. 13, Ka 6–TM–Nr. 26, K 7–TM–Nr. 24, K 8–TM–Nr. 30, ASK 13–TM–Nr. 19, ASK 18– TM–Nr. 9, dated August 30, 2012. VerDate Mar<15>2010 17:52 May 22, 2013 Jkt 229001 (i) Other FAA AD Provisions DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION 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: Jim Rutherford, Aerospace Engineer, FAA, Small Airplane Directorate, 901 Locust, Room 301, Kansas City, Missouri 64106; telephone: (816) 329–4165; fax: (816) 329– 4090; email: jim.rutherford@faa.gov. Before using any approved AMOC on any sailplane 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. (j) Related Information Refer to MCAI European Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) AD No. 2013–0091, dated April 12, 2013; Alexander Schleicher Automatic Elevator Connection document, dated December 5, 1961; Civil Aeronautics Manual (CAM) 18, dated February 11, 1936; Alexander Schleicher Modification No. 7 Glider Ka 2 and Ka 2B, L–140 and L–203, dated July 4, 1962; Alexander Schleicher Modification No. 8 Glider K 7 L–211 (US 7G3), dated November 23, 1961; Alexander Schleicher Modification No. 7 Glider K 8 L–216 (US 7G4), dated November 24, 1961; Alexander Schleicher Technische Mitteilungt ¨ fur Technical Note for Ka 2 and Ka 2b–TM– Nr. 13, Ka 6–TM–Nr. 26, K 7–TM–Nr. 24, K 8–TM–Nr. 30, ASK 13–TM–Nr. 19, ASK 18–TM–Nr. 9, dated August 30, 2012; and Alexander Schleicher Technische Mitteilungt ¨ fur Technical Note for Ka 2 and Ka 2b–TM– Nr. 13, Ka 6–TM–Nr. 26, K 7–TM–Nr. 24, K 8–TM–Nr. 30, ASK 13–TM–Nr. 19, ASK 18–TM–Nr. 9, Revision 1, dated January 8, 2013, for related information. For service information related to this AD, contact Alexander Schleicher GmbH & Co Segelflugzeugbau, Stra+e 1 D–36163 Poppenhausen, Germany; phone: ++49 (0) 6658/89–0, fax: +49 (0) 6658/89–40, email: info@alexander-schleicher.de; Internet: https://www.alexander-schleicher.de. You may review copies of the referenced service information at the FAA, Small Airplane Directorate, 901 Locust, Kansas City, Missouri 64106. For information on the availability of this material at the FAA, call (816) 329–4148. Issued in Kansas City, Missouri, on May 17, 2013. Earl Lawrence, Manager, Small Airplane Directorate, Aircraft Certification Service. [FR Doc. 2013–12308 Filed 5–22–13; 8:45 am] BILLING CODE 4910–13–P PO 00000 Frm 00012 Fmt 4702 Sfmt 4702 30793 Federal Aviation Administration 14 CFR Part 39 [Docket No. FAA–2013–0446; Directorate Identifier 2010–SW–007–AD] RIN 2120–AA64 Airworthiness Directives; Eurocopter Deutschland GmbH 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 Eurocopter Deutschland GmbH (Eurocopter) Model EC135 P1, P2, P2+, T1, T2, and T2+ helicopters to require inspecting each linear transducer bearing (bearing) for freedom of movement. This proposed AD would also require replacing the bearing if there is binding or rough turning or if there is chafing or damage on the lower side of the floor. Also, this proposed AD would require modifying and reidentifying a certain rod. This proposed AD is prompted by an incident involving limited control of a tail rotor because of the binding of a bearing. The proposed actions are intended to detect and replace each bearing subject to binding, which could lead to subsequent loss of control of the helicopter. We must receive comments on this proposed AD by July 22, 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. DATES: 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 E:\FR\FM\23MYP1.SGM 23MYP1 30794 Federal Register / Vol. 78, No. 100 / Thursday, May 23, 2013 / Proposed Rules 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 American Eurocopter Corporation, 2701 N. Forum Drive, Grand Prairie, TX 75052, telephone (972) 641–0000 or (800) 232– 0323, fax (972) 641–3775, or at https:// www.eurocopter.com/techpub. 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: Matt Fuller, Senior Aviation Safety Engineer, Safety Management Group, Rotorcraft Directorate, FAA, 2601 Meacham Blvd., Fort Worth, Texas 76137; telephone (817) 222–5110; email matthew.fuller@faa.gov. SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: Comments Invited tkelley on DSK3SPTVN1PROD with PROPOSALS 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 The European Aviation Safety Agency (EASA), which is the Technical Agent for the Member States of the European Union, has issued EASA AD No. 2006– 0318 R1, dated October 27, 2006, to correct an unsafe condition for all Eurocopter Model EC 135 helicopters. VerDate Mar<15>2010 17:52 May 22, 2013 Jkt 229001 EASA advises of an incident in which impaired control of an EC 135 tail rotor was detected. EASA states that according to examinations, the bearing of the linear transducer was subject to binding, which limited the control range. FAA’s Determination These helicopters have been approved by the aviation authority of Germany and are approved for operation in the United States. Pursuant to our bilateral agreement with Germany, EASA, its technical representative, 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 exists and is likely to exist or develop on other helicopters of these same type designs. Related Service Information Eurocopter has issued Alert Service Bulletin EC135–67A–012, Revision 1, dated October 18, 2006 (ASB), which specifies inspecting the bearing of the linear transducer for freedom of movement and the lower side of the floor for chafing or damage. If there is binding, the ASB specifies replacing the bearing. If there is chafing or damage on the floor, the ASB specifies replacing the bearing and repairing the floor. The ASB also specifies modifying and reidentifying a certain rod. EASA classified this ASB as mandatory and issued EASA AD 2006–0318 R1, dated October 27, 2006, to ensure the continued airworthiness of these helicopters. Proposed AD Requirements This proposed AD would require, at specified intervals, inspecting each bearing for freedom of movement. If there is binding or rough turning, this proposed AD would require, before further flight, replacing the bearing or if there is chafing or damage on the lower side of the floor, replacing the bearing and repairing the floor, and, thereafter, installing a Teflon strip. This proposed AD would also require modifying the rod and re-identifying the rod and lever with a new part number. Differences Between This Proposed AD and the EASA AD This proposed AD does not refer to the compliance date of October 31, 2006, because that date has passed; instead we propose compliance within 100 hours TIS. The proposed AD would not require contacting Eurocopter customer support. This proposed AD would require modifying each rod within 100 hours TIS, rather than PO 00000 Frm 00013 Fmt 4702 Sfmt 4702 within 800 hours TIS as specified in the EASA AD. Costs of Compliance We estimate that this proposed AD would affect 214 helicopters of U.S. Registry. We estimate that operators may incur the following costs in order to comply with this AD: It would take about 10 work-hours to inspect the bearing for freedom of movement at an average labor rate of $85 per work hour. No parts or materials are required for the inspection. Based on these estimates, the cost would be $850 per helicopter or $181,900 for the fleet of all U.S.-registered helicopters. If necessary, replacing the bearing would require 3 additional work-hours, and parts would cost $50. Repairing the floor would require 3 additional work hours and minimal cost for materials. 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 E:\FR\FM\23MYP1.SGM 23MYP1 Federal Register / Vol. 78, No. 100 / Thursday, May 23, 2013 / Proposed Rules 4. Will not have a significant economic impact, positive or negative, on a substantial number of small entities under the criteria of the Regulatory Flexibility Act. We prepared an economic evaluation of the estimated costs to comply with this proposed AD and placed it in the AD docket. List of Subjects in 14 CFR Part 39 Air transportation, Aircraft, Aviation safety, Incorporation by reference, Safety. The Proposed Amendment Accordingly, under the authority delegated to me by the Administrator, the FAA proposes to amend 14 CFR part 39 as follows: PART 39—AIRWORTHINESS DIRECTIVES (e) Alternative Methods of Compliance (AMOC) 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): ■ Eurocopter Deutschland GmbH: Docket No. FAA–2013–0446; Directorate Identifier 2010–SW–007–AD. (a) Applicability This AD applies to Model EC135 P1, P2, P2+, T1, T2, and T2+ helicopters, with bearing, part number (P/N) LN9367GE6N2; rod, P/N L671M5040205; lever, P/N L671M5040101; and floor, P/N L533M1014101, L533M1014102, L533M1014103, L533M1014104, L533M1014105 or L533M1014106, installed, certificated in any category. (b) Unsafe Condition This AD defines the unsafe condition as limited control of a tail rotor because of the binding of a bearing. This condition could result in subsequent loss of control of the helicopter. tkelley on DSK3SPTVN1PROD with PROPOSALS (c) Compliance You are responsible for performing each action required by this AD within the specified compliance time unless it has already been accomplished prior to that time. (d) Required Actions (1) Within 100 hours time-in-service (TIS) and thereafter at intervals not to exceed 800 hours TIS, inspect each bearing for freedom of movement by turning and tilting the bearing as depicted in Figure 2 of Eurocopter Alert Service Bulletin No. EC135–67A–012, Revision 1, dated October 18, 2006 (ASB). During any inspection: (i) If there is binding or rough turning, before further flight, replace the bearing with an airworthy bearing. (ii) If there is chafing on the lower side of the floor that does not extend through the VerDate Mar<15>2010 17:52 May 22, 2013 Jkt 229001 panel outer layer, before further flight, replace the bearing with an airworthy bearing. (iii) If there is damage on the lower side of the floor in the area of the assembly opening that extends through the panel outer layer (revealing an open honeycomb cell or layer), before further flight, replace the bearing with an airworthy bearing and repair the floor. (2) After performing the actions in (d)(1)(i) through (iii) of this AD, before further flight, install a Teflon strip and identify the floor by following the Accomplishment Instructions, paragraphs 3.E.(1) through 3.E.(4), of the ASB. (3) Within 100 hours TIS, modify and reidentify the rod as depicted in Figure 1 of the ASB and by following the Accomplishment Instructions, paragraphs 3.H.(1) through 3.H.(3)(f), of the ASB. (1) The Manager, Safety Management Group, FAA, may approve AMOCs for this AD. Send your proposal to: Matt Fuller, Senior Aviation Safety Engineer, Safety Management Group, Rotorcraft Directorate, FAA, 2601 Meacham Blvd., Fort Worth, Texas 76137; telephone (817) 222–5110; email matthew.fuller@faa.gov. (2) For operations conducted under 14 CFR part 119 operating certificate or under 14 CFR part 91, subpart K, we suggest that you notify your principal inspector, or lacking a principal inspector, the manager of the local flight standards district office or certificate holding district office before operating any aircraft complying with this AD through an AMOC. (f) Additional Information (1) For service information identified in this AD, contact American Eurocopter Corporation, 2701 N. Forum Drive, Grand Prairie, TX 75052, telephone (972) 641–0000 or (800) 232–0323, fax (972) 641–3775, or at https://www.eurocopter.com/techpub. You may review copies 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. 2006–0318 R1, dated October 27, 2006. (g) Subject The Joint Aircraft System/Component (JASC) Code is 6720: Tail Rotor Control System. Issued In Fort Worth, Texas, on May 14, 2013. Kim Smith, Directorate Manager, Rotorcraft Directorate, Aircraft Certification Service. [FR Doc. 2013–12309 Filed 5–22–13; 8:45 am] BILLING CODE 4910–13–P PO 00000 Frm 00014 Fmt 4702 Sfmt 4702 30795 DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION Federal Aviation Administration 14 CFR Part 39 [Docket No. FAA–2013–0262; Directorate Identifier 2013–NE–13–AD] RIN 2120–AA64 Airworthiness Directives; Hamilton Standard Division and Hamilton Sundstrand Corporation Propellers Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), DOT. ACTION: Notice of proposed rulemaking (NPRM). AGENCY: SUMMARY: We propose to adopt a new airworthiness directive (AD) for Hamilton Standard Division model 6/ 5500/F and 24PF and Hamilton Sundstrand Corporation model 14RF, 14SF, 247F, and 568F series propellers. This proposed AD was prompted by the amount of corrosion detected during major inspections (MIs). This proposed AD would require incorporating inspections, based on a calendar time, into the propeller maintenance schedule. We are proposing this AD to prevent corrosion that could result in propeller failure and loss of airplane control. We must receive comments on this proposed AD by July 22, 2013. ADDRESSES: You may send comments, using the procedures found in 14 CFR 11.43 and 11.45, by any of the following methods: • Federal eRulemaking Portal: Go to https://www.regulations.gov. Follow the instructions for submitting comments. • Fax: 202–493–2251. • Mail: U.S. Department of Transportation, Docket Operations, M– 30, West Building Ground Floor, Room W12–140, 1200 New Jersey Avenue SE., Washington, DC 20590. • Hand Delivery: Deliver to Mail address above between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m., Monday through Friday, except Federal holidays. For service information identified in this proposed AD, contact Hamilton Sundstrand Corporation, One Hamilton Road, Mail Stop 1A–3–C63, Windsor Locks, CT 06096–1010; or Hamilton Standard Division, One Hamilton Road, United Technologies Corporation, Mail Stop 1A–3–C63, Windsor Locks, CT 06096–1010; phone: 877–808–7575; fax: 860–660–0372; email: tech.solutions@hs.utc.com; Internet: https://myhs.hamiltonsundstrand.com. You may view this service information at the FAA, Engine & Propeller Directorate, 12 New England DATES: E:\FR\FM\23MYP1.SGM 23MYP1

Agencies

[Federal Register Volume 78, Number 100 (Thursday, May 23, 2013)]
[Proposed Rules]
[Pages 30793-30795]
From the Federal Register Online via the Government Printing Office [www.gpo.gov]
[FR Doc No: 2013-12309]


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DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION

Federal Aviation Administration

14 CFR Part 39

[Docket No. FAA-2013-0446; Directorate Identifier 2010-SW-007-AD]
RIN 2120-AA64


Airworthiness Directives; Eurocopter Deutschland GmbH Model 
Helicopters

AGENCY: Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) DOT.

ACTION: Notice of proposed rulemaking (NPRM).

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

SUMMARY: We propose to adopt a new airworthiness directive (AD) for 
Eurocopter Deutschland GmbH (Eurocopter) Model EC135 P1, P2, P2+, T1, 
T2, and T2+ helicopters to require inspecting each linear transducer 
bearing (bearing) for freedom of movement. This proposed AD would also 
require replacing the bearing if there is binding or rough turning or 
if there is chafing or damage on the lower side of the floor. Also, 
this proposed AD would require modifying and re-identifying a certain 
rod. This proposed AD is prompted by an incident involving limited 
control of a tail rotor because of the binding of a bearing. The 
proposed actions are intended to detect and replace each bearing 
subject to binding, which could lead to subsequent loss of control of 
the helicopter.

DATES: We must receive comments on this proposed AD by July 22, 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

[[Page 30794]]

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 
American Eurocopter Corporation, 2701 N. Forum Drive, Grand Prairie, TX 
75052, telephone (972) 641-0000 or (800) 232-0323, fax (972) 641-3775, 
or at https://www.eurocopter.com/techpub. 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: Matt Fuller, Senior Aviation Safety 
Engineer, Safety Management Group, Rotorcraft Directorate, FAA, 2601 
Meacham Blvd., Fort Worth, Texas 76137; telephone (817) 222-5110; email 
matthew.fuller@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

    The European Aviation Safety Agency (EASA), which is the Technical 
Agent for the Member States of the European Union, has issued EASA AD 
No. 2006-0318 R1, dated October 27, 2006, to correct an unsafe 
condition for all Eurocopter Model EC 135 helicopters. EASA advises of 
an incident in which impaired control of an EC 135 tail rotor was 
detected. EASA states that according to examinations, the bearing of 
the linear transducer was subject to binding, which limited the control 
range.

FAA's Determination

    These helicopters have been approved by the aviation authority of 
Germany and are approved for operation in the United States. Pursuant 
to our bilateral agreement with Germany, EASA, its technical 
representative, 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 exists and 
is likely to exist or develop on other helicopters of these same type 
designs.

Related Service Information

    Eurocopter has issued Alert Service Bulletin EC135-67A-012, 
Revision 1, dated October 18, 2006 (ASB), which specifies inspecting 
the bearing of the linear transducer for freedom of movement and the 
lower side of the floor for chafing or damage. If there is binding, the 
ASB specifies replacing the bearing. If there is chafing or damage on 
the floor, the ASB specifies replacing the bearing and repairing the 
floor. The ASB also specifies modifying and reidentifying a certain 
rod. EASA classified this ASB as mandatory and issued EASA AD 2006-0318 
R1, dated October 27, 2006, to ensure the continued airworthiness of 
these helicopters.

Proposed AD Requirements

    This proposed AD would require, at specified intervals, inspecting 
each bearing for freedom of movement. If there is binding or rough 
turning, this proposed AD would require, before further flight, 
replacing the bearing or if there is chafing or damage on the lower 
side of the floor, replacing the bearing and repairing the floor, and, 
thereafter, installing a Teflon strip. This proposed AD would also 
require modifying the rod and re-identifying the rod and lever with a 
new part number.

Differences Between This Proposed AD and the EASA AD

    This proposed AD does not refer to the compliance date of October 
31, 2006, because that date has passed; instead we propose compliance 
within 100 hours TIS. The proposed AD would not require contacting 
Eurocopter customer support. This proposed AD would require modifying 
each rod within 100 hours TIS, rather than within 800 hours TIS as 
specified in the EASA AD.

Costs of Compliance

    We estimate that this proposed AD would affect 214 helicopters of 
U.S. Registry. We estimate that operators may incur the following costs 
in order to comply with this AD: It would take about 10 work-hours to 
inspect the bearing for freedom of movement at an average labor rate of 
$85 per work hour. No parts or materials are required for the 
inspection. Based on these estimates, the cost would be $850 per 
helicopter or $181,900 for the fleet of all U.S.-registered 
helicopters. If necessary, replacing the bearing would require 3 
additional work-hours, and parts would cost $50. Repairing the floor 
would require 3 additional work hours and minimal cost for materials.

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

[[Page 30795]]

    4. Will not have a significant economic impact, positive or 
negative, on a substantial number of small entities under the criteria 
of the Regulatory Flexibility Act.
    We prepared an economic evaluation of the estimated costs to comply 
with this proposed AD and placed it in the AD docket.

List of Subjects in 14 CFR Part 39

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

The Proposed Amendment

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

PART 39--AIRWORTHINESS DIRECTIVES

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):

Eurocopter Deutschland GmbH: Docket No. FAA-2013-0446; Directorate 
Identifier 2010-SW-007-AD.

(a) Applicability

    This AD applies to Model EC135 P1, P2, P2+, T1, T2, and T2+ 
helicopters, with bearing, part number (P/N) LN9367GE6N2; rod, P/N 
L671M5040205; lever, P/N L671M5040101; and floor, P/N L533M1014101, 
L533M1014102, L533M1014103, L533M1014104, L533M1014105 or 
L533M1014106, installed, certificated in any category.

(b) Unsafe Condition

    This AD defines the unsafe condition as limited control of a 
tail rotor because of the binding of a bearing. This condition could 
result in subsequent loss of control of the helicopter.

(c) Compliance

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

(d) Required Actions

    (1) Within 100 hours time-in-service (TIS) and thereafter at 
intervals not to exceed 800 hours TIS, inspect each bearing for 
freedom of movement by turning and tilting the bearing as depicted 
in Figure 2 of Eurocopter Alert Service Bulletin No. EC135-67A-012, 
Revision 1, dated October 18, 2006 (ASB). During any inspection:
    (i) If there is binding or rough turning, before further flight, 
replace the bearing with an airworthy bearing.
    (ii) If there is chafing on the lower side of the floor that 
does not extend through the panel outer layer, before further 
flight, replace the bearing with an airworthy bearing.
    (iii) If there is damage on the lower side of the floor in the 
area of the assembly opening that extends through the panel outer 
layer (revealing an open honeycomb cell or layer), before further 
flight, replace the bearing with an airworthy bearing and repair the 
floor.
    (2) After performing the actions in (d)(1)(i) through (iii) of 
this AD, before further flight, install a Teflon strip and identify 
the floor by following the Accomplishment Instructions, paragraphs 
3.E.(1) through 3.E.(4), of the ASB.
    (3) Within 100 hours TIS, modify and re-identify the rod as 
depicted in Figure 1 of the ASB and by following the Accomplishment 
Instructions, paragraphs 3.H.(1) through 3.H.(3)(f), of the ASB.

(e) Alternative Methods of Compliance (AMOC)

    (1) The Manager, Safety Management Group, FAA, may approve AMOCs 
for this AD. Send your proposal to: Matt Fuller, Senior Aviation 
Safety Engineer, Safety Management Group, Rotorcraft Directorate, 
FAA, 2601 Meacham Blvd., Fort Worth, Texas 76137; telephone (817) 
222-5110; email matthew.fuller@faa.gov.
    (2) For operations conducted under 14 CFR part 119 operating 
certificate or under 14 CFR part 91, subpart K, we suggest that you 
notify your principal inspector, or lacking a principal inspector, 
the manager of the local flight standards district office or 
certificate holding district office before operating any aircraft 
complying with this AD through an AMOC.

(f) Additional Information

    (1) For service information identified in this AD, contact 
American Eurocopter Corporation, 2701 N. Forum Drive, Grand Prairie, 
TX 75052, telephone (972) 641-0000 or (800) 232-0323, fax (972) 641-
3775, or at https://www.eurocopter.com/techpub. You may review copies 
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. 2006-0318 R1, dated October 27, 2006.

(g) Subject

    The Joint Aircraft System/Component (JASC) Code is 6720: Tail 
Rotor Control System.

    Issued In Fort Worth, Texas, on May 14, 2013.
Kim Smith,
Directorate Manager, Rotorcraft Directorate, Aircraft Certification 
Service.
[FR Doc. 2013-12309 Filed 5-22-13; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE 4910-13-P
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