Airworthiness Directives; Eurocopter Deutschland (Eurocopter) Helicopters, 40956-40958 [2013-16388]

Download as PDF 40956 Federal Register / Vol. 78, No. 131 / Tuesday, July 9, 2013 / Rules and Regulations TABLE 1 TO PARAGRAPH (a) Fitting P/Ns Fitting S/Ns 204–012–102–001 ..... 204–012–102–005 ..... 204–012–102–009 ..... All. All. All, except 7500 or larger with a prefix of ‘‘A’’ or ‘‘A–FS.’’ (b) Unsafe Condition This AD defines the unsafe condition as a crack in the fitting and the determination that the applicable fittings may not have been manufactured in accordance with approved manufacturing processes and controls. This condition could result in failure of a fitting, loss of a main rotor blade, and loss of helicopter control. (c) Effective Date This AD becomes effective July 24, 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. mstockstill on DSK4VPTVN1PROD with RULES (e) Required Actions Within 25 hours time-in-service or 15 days, whichever occurs first: (1) Perform a magnetic particle inspection (MPI) of each fitting for a crack. If an MPI was already performed on a fitting resulting in re-identifying the fitting with ‘‘FM’’ at the end of the P/N or at the end of the P/N on the fitting’s component history card or equivalent record, then the requirements of this AD have been met. (2) If a fitting is cracked, before further flight, replace it with an airworthy fitting. (3) If a fitting is not cracked, before further flight, re-identify the fitting by adding ‘‘FM’’ at the end of the P/N using a vibrating stylus. The depth of the ‘‘FM’’ must not exceed 0.005 inches or extend within 0.10 inch of the part’s edge. Also, add ‘‘FM’’ at the end of the P/N on the fitting’s component history card or equivalent record. (f) Alternative Methods of Compliance (AMOCs) (1) The Manager, Rotorcraft Certification Office, FAA, may approve AMOCs for this AD. Send your proposal to: Michael Kohner, Aerospace Engineer, FAA, Rotorcraft Directorate, Rotorcraft Certification Office, 2601 Meacham Blvd., Fort Worth, Texas, 76137, phone: (817) 222–5710; fax: (817) 222–5783; email: 7-AVS-ASW-170@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 Bell Alert Service Bulletin (ASB) No. UH– 1H–11–07, dated May 31, 2011, which is not incorporated by reference, contain additional information about the subject of this AD. For VerDate Mar<15>2010 16:51 Jul 08, 2013 Jkt 229001 this service information, contact Bell Helicopter Textron, Inc., P.O. Box 482, Fort Worth, TX 76101, telephone (817) 280–3391, fax (817) 280–6466, or at www.bellcustomer.com. You may review this service information at the FAA, Office of the Regional Counsel, Southwest Region, 2601 Meacham Blvd., Room 663, Fort Worth, Texas 76137. (h) Subject Joint Aircraft Service Component (JASC) Code: 6220, Main Rotor Head. Issued in Fort Worth, Texas, on June 18, 2013. Kim Smith, Directorate Manager, Rotorcraft Directorate, Aircraft Certification Service. [FR Doc. 2013–15946 Filed 7–8–13; 8:45 am] BILLING CODE 4910–13–P DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION Federal Aviation Administration 14 CFR Part 39 [Docket No. FAA–2013–0520; Directorate Identifier 2013–SW–027–AD; Amendment 39–17484; AD 2013–12–06] RIN 2120–AA64 Airworthiness Directives; Eurocopter Deutschland (Eurocopter) Helicopters Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), Department of Transportation (DOT). ACTION: Final rule; request for comments. AGENCY: We are adopting a new airworthiness directive (AD) for Eurocopter Model MBB–BK117 A–3, MBB–BK117 A–4, MBB–BK117 B–1, and MBB–BK117 C–2 helicopters with a Metro Aviation (Metro) vapor-cycle air conditioning kit installed in accordance with Supplemental Type Certificate (STC) No. SH3880SW. This AD requires repetitively inspecting the air conditioning drive pulley (pulley) for looseness and properly installed lockwire, and also requires reinstalling the pulley. This AD is prompted by two reports of the pulley detaching from the rotor brake disc on the tail rotor (T/R) driveshaft. These actions are intended to prevent separation of the pulley, damage to the T/R driveshaft, and subsequent loss of control of the helicopter. SUMMARY: This AD becomes effective July 24, 2013. We must receive comments on this AD by September 9, 2013. ADDRESSES: You may send comments by any of the following methods: DATES: PO 00000 Frm 00022 Fmt 4700 Sfmt 4700 • 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 AD, the STC, 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 AD, contact Metro Aviation, Inc., 1214 Hawn Ave, Shreveport, LA 71107; phone: (318) 222–5529; Web site: metroproductsupport.com. You may review the referenced service information at the FAA, Office of the Regional Counsel, Southwest Region, 2601 Meacham Blvd., Room 663, Fort Worth, Texas 76137. FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Martin Crane, Aviation Safety Engineer, Rotorcraft Certification Office, Rotorcraft Directorate, FAA, 2601 Meacham Blvd., Fort Worth, Texas 76137; telephone (817) 222–5056; email 7-AVS-ASW-170@faa.gov. SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: Comments Invited This AD is a final rule that involves requirements affecting flight safety, and we did not provide you with notice and an opportunity to provide your comments prior to it becoming effective. However, 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 resulted from adopting this AD. The most helpful comments reference a specific portion of the AD, explain the reason for any recommended change, and include supporting data. To ensure the docket does not contain duplicate comments, E:\FR\FM\09JYR1.SGM 09JYR1 Federal Register / Vol. 78, No. 131 / Tuesday, July 9, 2013 / Rules and Regulations commenters should send only one copy of written comments, or if comments are filed electronically, commenters should submit them 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 rulemaking during the comment period. We will consider all the comments we receive and may conduct additional rulemaking based on those comments. Discussion STC No. SH3880SW approves the installation of the Metro vapor-cycle air conditioning kit on Eurocopter Model MBB–BK117 A–3, MBB–BK117 A–4, MBB–BK117 B–1, and MBB–BK117 C– 2 helicopters. The air conditioning compressor is driven by a pulley attached to the rotor brake disc. We received a report of a recent incident where the fasteners attaching the air conditioning compressor pulley to the rotor brake disc lost torque and allowed the pulley to separate. After the helicopter landed without incident, the pulley was discovered loose, rotating freely on, and causing damage to the T/ R driveshaft. A prior incident in 2008 occurred where the pulley mount bolts sheared, resulting in the pulley detaching from the rotor brake disc. Separation of the pulley from the rotor brake disc could damage the T/R driveshaft, resulting in subsequent loss of control of the helicopter. FAA’s Determination We are issuing this AD because we evaluated all information provided by Metro and determined the unsafe condition exists and is likely to exist or develop on other helicopters of these same type designs. mstockstill on DSK4VPTVN1PROD with RULES Related Service Information We reviewed Metro Alert Service Bulletin No. MA145–21A–003, Revision A, dated April 26, 2013 (ASB MA145– 21A–003), which describes procedures to inspect the pulley for properly installed lockwire, and for removing, inspecting, and re-installing the pulley. AD Requirements This AD requires, before further flight, and thereafter at intervals not exceeding 10 hours time-in-service (TIS), inspecting the pulley for looseness and proper installation of the lockwire on the pulley mount bolts. Additionally, within 25 hours TIS, this AD requires removing the pulley, inspecting the bolts and mounting holes with a 10X or higher magnifying glass for damage or distortion, and reinstalling the pulley. If there is any VerDate Mar<15>2010 16:51 Jul 08, 2013 Jkt 229001 40957 damage or distortion, this AD requires replacing the damaged pulley. amendment effective in less than 30 days. Differences Between This AD and the Manufacturer’s Service Information This AD requires repetitively inspecting the pulley bolts every 10 hours TIS; the ASB does not require the repetitive inspections after re-installing the pulley. This AD also applies to Model MBB– BK117 A–3, MBB–BK117 A–4, MBB– BK117 B–1, and MBB–BK117 C–2 helicopters; the ASB only applies to Model MBB–BK C–2 helicopters. Authority for This Rulemaking Interim Action We consider this AD to be an interim action. The design approval holder is currently developing a modification that will address the unsafe condition identified in this AD. Once this modification is developed, approved, and available, we might consider additional rulemaking. Costs of Compliance We estimate that this AD will affect 75 helicopters of U.S. Registry. We estimate that operators may incur the following costs in order to comply with this AD. At an average labor rate of $85 per hour, inspecting the pulley will require about .5 work-hour, for a cost per helicopter of $43, and a total cost of $3,225 for the fleet per inspection cycle. Inspecting and re-installing the pulley will require about 2 work-hours, for a cost per helicopter of $170, and a total cost of $12,750 for the fleet. If necessary, replacing a damaged pulley would require about 2 workhours, and required parts would cost $525, for a total cost per helicopter of $695. FAA’s Justification and Determination of the Effective Date Providing an opportunity for public comments prior to adopting these AD requirements would delay implementing the safety actions needed to correct this known unsafe condition. Therefore, we find that the risk to the flying public justifies waiving notice and comment prior to the adoption of this rule because the required corrective actions must be accomplished within 25 hours TIS or 30 calendar days, a very short time period based on the average flight hour utilization rate of these helicopters in the air ambulance and offshore operations industries. Since an unsafe condition exists that requires the immediate adoption of this AD, we determined that notice and opportunity for public comment before issuing this AD are impracticable and that good cause exists for making this PO 00000 Frm 00023 Fmt 4700 Sfmt 4700 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, I certify that this AD: 1. Is not a ‘‘significant regulatory action’’ under Executive Order 12866; 2. Is not a ‘‘significant rule’’ under DOT Regulatory Policies and Procedures (44 FR 11034, February 26, 1979); 3. Will not affect intrastate aviation in Alaska to the extent that it justifies making a regulatory distinction; and 4. Will not have a significant economic impact, positive or negative, on a substantial number of small entities under the criteria of the Regulatory Flexibility Act. We prepared an economic evaluation of the estimated costs to comply with this AD and placed it in the AD docket. List of Subjects in 14 CFR Part 39 Air transportation, Aircraft, Aviation safety, Incorporation by reference, Safety. Adoption of the Amendment Accordingly, under the authority delegated to me by the Administrator, the FAA amends 14 CFR part 39 as follows: E:\FR\FM\09JYR1.SGM 09JYR1 40958 Federal Register / Vol. 78, No. 131 / Tuesday, July 9, 2013 / Rules and Regulations 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): ■ 2013–12–06 Eurocopter Deutschland (Eurocopter): Amendment 39–17484; Docket No. FAA–2013–0520; Directorate Identifier 2013–SW–027–AD. (a) Applicability This AD applies to Eurocopter Model MBB–BK 117 A–3, MBB–BK 117 A–4, MBB– BK 117 B–1, and MBB–BK 117 C–2 helicopters with a Metro Aviation, Inc. (Metro) vapor-cycle air conditioning kit installed in accordance with Supplemental Type Certificate (STC) No. SH3880SW, certificated in any category. (b) Unsafe Condition This AD defines the unsafe condition as loosening of an air conditioning drive pulley (pulley) mount bolt, which could result in separation of the pulley from the rotor brake disc on the tail rotor (T/R) driveshaft, damage to the T/R driveshaft, and subsequent loss of control of the helicopter. (c) Effective Date This AD becomes effective July 24, 2013. (d) Compliance You are responsible for performing each action required by this AD within the specified compliance time. mstockstill on DSK4VPTVN1PROD with RULES (e) Required Actions (1) Before further flight, and thereafter at intervals not exceeding 10 hours time-inservice (TIS), inspect the lockwire securing the pulley mount bolts for proper installation and the pulley for looseness. If the lockwire is damaged or broken, or is not installed in a tightening direction, or if the pulley is loose, remove and inspect the pulley as described in paragraphs (e)(2)(i) and (e)(2)(ii) of this AD. (2) Within 25 hours TIS: (i) Remove the pulley from the rotor brake disc and, using a 10X or higher power magnifying glass, inspect the bolts and mounting holes glass for damage or distortion. If there is any damage or distortion, replace the pulley. (ii) Install the pulley and torque each mount bolt to 90 inch-pounds. After torqueing, determine whether a gap exists among each bolt head, washer, and the mating surface of the rotor brake disc. If there is a gap, replace the pulley. (iii) Lock wire each pulley mount bolt to its adjacent rotor brake mounting bolt with 0.6 millimeter lockwire. (f) Special Flight Permits 16:51 Jul 08, 2013 (h) Additional Information (1) Metro Alert Service Bulletin No. MA145–21A–003, Revision A, dated April 26, 2013, which is not incorporated by reference, contains additional information about the subject of this AD. For service information identified in this AD, contact Metro Aviation, Inc., 1214 Hawn Ave, Shreveport, LA 71107; phone: (318) 222– 5529; Web site: metroproductsupport.com. You may review a copy of the service information at the FAA, Office of the Regional Counsel, Southwest Region, 2601 Meacham Blvd., Room 663, Fort Worth, Texas 76137. (2) STC No. SH3880SW, amended April 16, 2004, may be found on the Internet at https:// www.regulations.gov in Docket No. FAA– 2013–0520. (i) Subject Joint Aircraft Service Component (JASC) Code: 6500: Tail Rotor Drive. Issued in Fort Worth, Texas, on June 13, 2013. Kim Smith, Directorate Manager, Rotorcraft Directorate, Aircraft Certification Service. [FR Doc. 2013–16388 Filed 7–8–13; 8:45 am] BILLING CODE 4910–13–P DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION Federal Aviation Administration 14 CFR Part 73 [Docket No. FAA–2013–0515; Airspace Docket No. 13–AWP–8] RIN 2120–AA66 Amendment of Restricted Areas R– 2504A & R–2504B; Camp Roberts, CA, and Restricted Area R–2530; Sierra Army Depot, CA Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), DOT. ACTION: Final rule. AGENCY: This action amends the descriptions of restricted areas R–2504A SUMMARY: Special flight permits are prohibited. VerDate Mar<15>2010 (g) Alternative Methods of Compliance (AMOCs) (1) The Manager, Rotorcraft Certification Office, FAA, may approve AMOCs for this AD. Send your proposal to: Martin Crane, Aviation Safety Engineer, Rotorcraft Certification Office, Rotorcraft Directorate, FAA, 2601 Meacham Blvd., Fort Worth, Texas 76137; telephone (817) 222–5056; email 7-AVS-ASW-170@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. Jkt 229001 PO 00000 Frm 00024 Fmt 4700 Sfmt 4700 and R–2504B, Camp Roberts, CA, and restricted area R–2530, Sierra Army Depot, CA, by removing the abbreviation ‘‘PST’’ from the time of designation. This amendment does not change the dimensions of, or activities conducted within, R–2504A, R–2504B, and R–2530. DATES: Effective Date: 0901 UTC, October 17, 2013. FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Colby Abbott, Airspace Policy and ATC Procedures Group, Office of Airspace Services, Federal Aviation Administration, 800 Independence Avenue SW., Washington, DC 20591; telephone: (202) 267–8783. SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: Background The time of designation for R–2504A and R–2504B currently reads ‘‘0600 to 2400 PST, daily’’ and the time of designation for R–2530 currently reads ‘‘0800 to 1800 PST, Monday–Friday; other times by NOTAM.’’ Since the restricted areas lie completely within the pacific time zone, it is unnecessary to specify ‘‘PST’’ in the descriptions. The use of ‘‘PST’’ has led to confusion about the time of designation during that part of the year when daylight saving time is in effect. The intended time of designation for restricted areas R–2504A and R–2504B is 0600–2400 local time, daily, during both standard time and daylight saving time periods and for R–2530 is 0800–1800 local time, Monday–Friday; other times by NOTAM, during both standard time and daylight saving time periods. The Rule This action amends Title 14, Code of Federal Regulations (14 CFR) part 73 by removing ‘‘PST’’ from the time of designation for restricted areas R–2504A and R–2504B, Camp Roberts, CA, and R–2530, Sierra Army Depot, CA, and inserting the words ‘‘local time’’ in its place. The time of designation is amended to read ‘‘0600 to 2400 local time, daily’’ for R–2504A and R–2504B and ‘‘0800–1800 local time, Monday– Friday; other times by NOTAM’’ for R– 2530. These changes do not alter the current dimensions or usage of the restricted areas. Because this action is a minor editorial change that does not alter the physical location or utilization of the restricted areas, I find that notice and public procedures under 5 U.S.C. 553(b) are unnecessary. Section 73.25 of Title 14 CFR part 73 was republished in FAA Order JO 7400.8V, effective February 16, 2013. The FAA has determined that this regulation only involves an established E:\FR\FM\09JYR1.SGM 09JYR1

Agencies

[Federal Register Volume 78, Number 131 (Tuesday, July 9, 2013)]
[Rules and Regulations]
[Pages 40956-40958]
From the Federal Register Online via the Government Printing Office [www.gpo.gov]
[FR Doc No: 2013-16388]


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

DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION

Federal Aviation Administration

14 CFR Part 39

[Docket No. FAA-2013-0520; Directorate Identifier 2013-SW-027-AD; 
Amendment 39-17484; AD 2013-12-06]
RIN 2120-AA64


Airworthiness Directives; Eurocopter Deutschland (Eurocopter) 
Helicopters

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

ACTION: Final rule; request for comments.

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

SUMMARY: We are adopting a new airworthiness directive (AD) for 
Eurocopter Model MBB-BK117 A-3, MBB-BK117 A-4, MBB-BK117 B-1, and MBB-
BK117 C-2 helicopters with a Metro Aviation (Metro) vapor-cycle air 
conditioning kit installed in accordance with Supplemental Type 
Certificate (STC) No. SH3880SW. This AD requires repetitively 
inspecting the air conditioning drive pulley (pulley) for looseness and 
properly installed lockwire, and also requires reinstalling the pulley. 
This AD is prompted by two reports of the pulley detaching from the 
rotor brake disc on the tail rotor (T/R) driveshaft. These actions are 
intended to prevent separation of the pulley, damage to the T/R 
driveshaft, and subsequent loss of control of the helicopter.

DATES: This AD becomes effective July 24, 2013.
    We must receive comments on this AD by September 9, 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 AD, the STC, 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 AD, contact Metro 
Aviation, Inc., 1214 Hawn Ave, Shreveport, LA 71107; phone: (318) 222-
5529; Web site: metroproductsupport.com. You may review the referenced 
service information at the FAA, Office of the Regional Counsel, 
Southwest Region, 2601 Meacham Blvd., Room 663, Fort Worth, Texas 
76137.

FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Martin Crane, Aviation Safety 
Engineer, Rotorcraft Certification Office, Rotorcraft Directorate, FAA, 
2601 Meacham Blvd., Fort Worth, Texas 76137; telephone (817) 222-5056; 
email 7-AVS-ASW-170@faa.gov.

SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: 

Comments Invited

    This AD is a final rule that involves requirements affecting flight 
safety, and we did not provide you with notice and an opportunity to 
provide your comments prior to it becoming effective. However, 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 resulted 
from adopting this AD. The most helpful comments reference a specific 
portion of the AD, explain the reason for any recommended change, and 
include supporting data. To ensure the docket does not contain 
duplicate comments,

[[Page 40957]]

commenters should send only one copy of written comments, or if 
comments are filed electronically, commenters should submit them 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 rulemaking during the comment period. We will 
consider all the comments we receive and may conduct additional 
rulemaking based on those comments.

Discussion

    STC No. SH3880SW approves the installation of the Metro vapor-cycle 
air conditioning kit on Eurocopter Model MBB-BK117 A-3, MBB-BK117 A-4, 
MBB-BK117 B-1, and MBB-BK117 C-2 helicopters. The air conditioning 
compressor is driven by a pulley attached to the rotor brake disc. We 
received a report of a recent incident where the fasteners attaching 
the air conditioning compressor pulley to the rotor brake disc lost 
torque and allowed the pulley to separate. After the helicopter landed 
without incident, the pulley was discovered loose, rotating freely on, 
and causing damage to the T/R driveshaft. A prior incident in 2008 
occurred where the pulley mount bolts sheared, resulting in the pulley 
detaching from the rotor brake disc. Separation of the pulley from the 
rotor brake disc could damage the T/R driveshaft, resulting in 
subsequent loss of control of the helicopter.

FAA's Determination

    We are issuing this AD because we evaluated all information 
provided by Metro and determined the unsafe condition exists and is 
likely to exist or develop on other helicopters of these same type 
designs.

Related Service Information

    We reviewed Metro Alert Service Bulletin No. MA145-21A-003, 
Revision A, dated April 26, 2013 (ASB MA145-21A-003), which describes 
procedures to inspect the pulley for properly installed lockwire, and 
for removing, inspecting, and re-installing the pulley.

AD Requirements

    This AD requires, before further flight, and thereafter at 
intervals not exceeding 10 hours time-in-service (TIS), inspecting the 
pulley for looseness and proper installation of the lockwire on the 
pulley mount bolts.
    Additionally, within 25 hours TIS, this AD requires removing the 
pulley, inspecting the bolts and mounting holes with a 10X or higher 
magnifying glass for damage or distortion, and re-installing the 
pulley. If there is any damage or distortion, this AD requires 
replacing the damaged pulley.

Differences Between This AD and the Manufacturer's Service Information

    This AD requires repetitively inspecting the pulley bolts every 10 
hours TIS; the ASB does not require the repetitive inspections after 
re-installing the pulley.
    This AD also applies to Model MBB-BK117 A-3, MBB-BK117 A-4, MBB-
BK117 B-1, and MBB-BK117 C-2 helicopters; the ASB only applies to Model 
MBB-BK C-2 helicopters.

Interim Action

    We consider this AD to be an interim action. The design approval 
holder is currently developing a modification that will address the 
unsafe condition identified in this AD. Once this modification is 
developed, approved, and available, we might consider additional 
rulemaking.

Costs of Compliance

    We estimate that this AD will affect 75 helicopters of U.S. 
Registry. We estimate that operators may incur the following costs in 
order to comply with this AD. At an average labor rate of $85 per hour, 
inspecting the pulley will require about .5 work-hour, for a cost per 
helicopter of $43, and a total cost of $3,225 for the fleet per 
inspection cycle. Inspecting and re-installing the pulley will require 
about 2 work-hours, for a cost per helicopter of $170, and a total cost 
of $12,750 for the fleet.
    If necessary, replacing a damaged pulley would require about 2 
work-hours, and required parts would cost $525, for a total cost per 
helicopter of $695.

FAA's Justification and Determination of the Effective Date

    Providing an opportunity for public comments prior to adopting 
these AD requirements would delay implementing the safety actions 
needed to correct this known unsafe condition. Therefore, we find that 
the risk to the flying public justifies waiving notice and comment 
prior to the adoption of this rule because the required corrective 
actions must be accomplished within 25 hours TIS or 30 calendar days, a 
very short time period based on the average flight hour utilization 
rate of these helicopters in the air ambulance and offshore operations 
industries.
    Since an unsafe condition exists that requires the immediate 
adoption of this AD, we determined that notice and opportunity for 
public comment before issuing this AD are impracticable and that good 
cause exists for making this amendment effective in less than 30 days.

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, I certify that this AD:
    1. Is not a ``significant regulatory action'' under Executive Order 
12866;
    2. Is not a ``significant rule'' under DOT Regulatory Policies and 
Procedures (44 FR 11034, February 26, 1979);
    3. Will not affect intrastate aviation in Alaska to the extent that 
it justifies making a regulatory distinction; and
    4. Will not have a significant economic impact, positive or 
negative, on a substantial number of small entities under the criteria 
of the Regulatory Flexibility Act.
    We prepared an economic evaluation of the estimated costs to comply 
with this AD and placed it in the AD docket.

List of Subjects in 14 CFR Part 39

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

Adoption of the Amendment

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

[[Page 40958]]

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):

2013-12-06 Eurocopter Deutschland (Eurocopter): Amendment 39-17484; 
Docket No. FAA-2013-0520; Directorate Identifier 2013-SW-027-AD.

(a) Applicability

    This AD applies to Eurocopter Model MBB-BK 117 A-3, MBB-BK 117 
A-4, MBB-BK 117 B-1, and MBB-BK 117 C-2 helicopters with a Metro 
Aviation, Inc. (Metro) vapor-cycle air conditioning kit installed in 
accordance with Supplemental Type Certificate (STC) No. SH3880SW, 
certificated in any category.

(b) Unsafe Condition

    This AD defines the unsafe condition as loosening of an air 
conditioning drive pulley (pulley) mount bolt, which could result in 
separation of the pulley from the rotor brake disc on the tail rotor 
(T/R) driveshaft, damage to the T/R driveshaft, and subsequent loss 
of control of the helicopter.

(c) Effective Date

    This AD becomes effective July 24, 2013.

(d) Compliance

    You are responsible for performing each action required by this 
AD within the specified compliance time.

(e) Required Actions

    (1) Before further flight, and thereafter at intervals not 
exceeding 10 hours time-in-service (TIS), inspect the lockwire 
securing the pulley mount bolts for proper installation and the 
pulley for looseness. If the lockwire is damaged or broken, or is 
not installed in a tightening direction, or if the pulley is loose, 
remove and inspect the pulley as described in paragraphs (e)(2)(i) 
and (e)(2)(ii) of this AD.
    (2) Within 25 hours TIS:
    (i) Remove the pulley from the rotor brake disc and, using a 10X 
or higher power magnifying glass, inspect the bolts and mounting 
holes glass for damage or distortion. If there is any damage or 
distortion, replace the pulley.
    (ii) Install the pulley and torque each mount bolt to 90 inch-
pounds. After torqueing, determine whether a gap exists among each 
bolt head, washer, and the mating surface of the rotor brake disc. 
If there is a gap, replace the pulley.
    (iii) Lock wire each pulley mount bolt to its adjacent rotor 
brake mounting bolt with 0.6 millimeter lockwire.

(f) Special Flight Permits

    Special flight permits are prohibited.

(g) Alternative Methods of Compliance (AMOCs)

    (1) The Manager, Rotorcraft Certification Office, FAA, may 
approve AMOCs for this AD. Send your proposal to: Martin Crane, 
Aviation Safety Engineer, Rotorcraft Certification Office, 
Rotorcraft Directorate, FAA, 2601 Meacham Blvd., Fort Worth, Texas 
76137; telephone (817) 222-5056; email 7-AVS-ASW-170@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.

(h) Additional Information

    (1) Metro Alert Service Bulletin No. MA145-21A-003, Revision A, 
dated April 26, 2013, which is not incorporated by reference, 
contains additional information about the subject of this AD. For 
service information identified in this AD, contact Metro Aviation, 
Inc., 1214 Hawn Ave, Shreveport, LA 71107; phone: (318) 222-5529; 
Web site: metroproductsupport.com. You may review a copy of the 
service information at the FAA, Office of the Regional Counsel, 
Southwest Region, 2601 Meacham Blvd., Room 663, Fort Worth, Texas 
76137.
    (2) STC No. SH3880SW, amended April 16, 2004, may be found on 
the Internet at https://www.regulations.gov in Docket No. FAA-2013-
0520.

(i) Subject

    Joint Aircraft Service Component (JASC) Code: 6500: Tail Rotor 
Drive.

    Issued in Fort Worth, Texas, on June 13, 2013.
Kim Smith,
Directorate Manager, Rotorcraft Directorate, Aircraft Certification 
Service.
[FR Doc. 2013-16388 Filed 7-8-13; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE 4910-13-P
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