Airworthiness Directives; Ballonbau Wörner GmbH Balloons, 5319-5321 [2014-01950]

Download as PDF Federal Register / Vol. 79, No. 21 / Friday, January 31, 2014 / Proposed Rules Pub. L. 103–305, 49 U.S.C. § 47107(l)(1) (Aug. 23, 1994). Issued in Washington, DC, on January 17, 2014. Randall S. Fiertz, Director, Office of Airport Compliance and Management Analysis. [FR Doc. 2014–02033 Filed 1–30–14; 8:45 am] BILLING CODE 4910–13–P DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION For service information identified in this proposed AD, contact Ballonbau ¨ Worner GmbH, Zirbelstrasse 57c, D–86154 Augsburg, Germany; telephone: +49 821 4504060; fax: +49 821 419641; Internet: www.ballonbau.de. You may review this 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. Federal Aviation Administration Examining the AD Docket 14 CFR Part 39 You may examine the AD docket on the Internet at https:// www.regulations.gov by searching for and locating it in Docket No. FAA– 2014–0041; or in person at the Docket Management Facility between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m., Monday through Friday, except Federal holidays. The AD docket contains this proposed AD, the regulatory evaluation, any comments received, and other information. The street address for the Docket Office (telephone (800) 647–5527) is in the ADDRESSES section. Comments will be available in the AD docket shortly after receipt. FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Karl Schletzbaum, Aerospace Engineer, FAA, Small Airplane Directorate, 901 Locust, Room 301, Kansas City, Missouri 64106; telephone: (816) 329–4123; fax: (816) 329–4090; email: karl.schletzbaum@ faa.gov. [Docket No. FAA–2014–0041; Directorate Identifier 2013–CE–053–AD] RIN 2120–AA64 Airworthiness Directives; Ballonbau ¨ Worner GmbH Balloons Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), Department of Transportation (DOT). ACTION: Notice of proposed rulemaking (NPRM). AGENCY: We propose to adopt a new airworthiness directive (AD) for ¨ Ballonbau Worner GmbH Models NL– 280/STU, NL–380/STU, NL–510/STU, NL–640/STU, NL–840/STU, and NL– 1000/STU balloons. This proposed AD results from mandatory continuing airworthiness information (MCAI) originated by an aviation authority of another country to identify and correct an unsafe condition on an aviation product. The MCAI describes the unsafe condition as current inspection intervals are no longer adequate to ensure timely detection of deterioration or damage. We are issuing this proposed AD to require actions to address the unsafe condition on these products. DATES: We must receive comments on this proposed AD by March 17, 2014. ADDRESSES: You may send comments 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: U.S. Department of Transportation, Docket Operations, M–30, West Building Ground Floor, Room W12–140, 1200 New Jersey Avenue SE., Washington, DC 20590, between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m., Monday through Friday, except Federal holidays. emcdonald on DSK67QTVN1PROD with PROPOSALS-1 SUMMARY: VerDate Mar<15>2010 16:29 Jan 30, 2014 Jkt 229001 SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: Comments Invited We invite you to send any written relevant data, views, or arguments about this proposed AD. Send your comments to an address listed under the ADDRESSES section. Include ‘‘Docket No. FAA–2014–0041; Directorate Identifier 2013–CE–053–AD’’ at the beginning of your comments. We specifically invite comments on the overall regulatory, economic, environmental, and energy aspects of this proposed AD. We will consider all comments received by the closing date and may amend this proposed AD because of those comments. We will post all comments we receive, without change, to https:// regulations.gov, including any personal information you provide. We will also post a report summarizing each substantive verbal contact we receive about this proposed AD. 5319 Community, has issued AD No.: 2013– 0293R1, dated December 17, 2013 (referred to after this as ‘‘the MCAI’’), to correct an unsafe condition for ¨ Ballonbau Worner GmbH Models NL– 280/STU, NL–380/STU, NL–510/STU, NL–640/STU, NL–840/STU, and NL– 1000/STU balloons. The MCAI states: The results of an analysis of NL–STU maintenance data revealed that the current inspection intervals are no longer adequate to ensure timely detection of deterioration or damage, which could affected the structural integrity of the balloon. This condition, if not detected and corrected, could lead to failure of balloon components or envelope, possibly resulting in loss of the balloon. To address this potential unsafe condition, ¨ Ballonbau Worner developed new, more detailed and descriptive Instructions for Continued Airworthiness (at the same time separated from the Flight Manual) and issued Technische Mitteilung/Technical Note EASA.BA.009–6 to inform all operators. For the reasons described above, EASA issued AD 2013–0293 to require compliance with the updated Instructions for Continued Airworthiness. This AD is revised to extend the compliance time for the initial porosity test, for balloons which have already exceeded the relevant threshold. You may examine the MCAI on the Internet at https://www.regulations.gov by searching for and locating it in Docket No. FAA–2014–0041. Relevant Service Information ¨ Ballonbau Worner GmbH has issued Technische Mitteilung (English translation: Technical Note) Ballonbau ¨ Worner GmbH EASA.BA.009–6, dated November 7, 2013; and Ballonbau ¨ Worner GmbH Instructions for Continued Airworthiness, Gas Balloon Model NL–STU, Issue 1, dated November 2013. The actions described in this service information are intended to correct the unsafe condition identified in the MCAI. Discussion FAA’s Determination and Requirements of the Proposed AD This product has been approved by the aviation authority of another country, and is approved for operation in the United States. Pursuant to our bilateral agreement with this State of Design Authority, they have notified us of the unsafe condition described in the MCAI and service information referenced above. We are proposing this AD because we evaluated all information and determined the unsafe condition exists and is likely to exist or develop on other products of the same type design. The European Aviation Safety Agency (EASA), which is the Technical Agent for the Member States of the European Costs of Compliance We estimate that this proposed AD will affect 6 products of U.S. registry. PO 00000 Frm 00018 Fmt 4702 Sfmt 4702 E:\FR\FM\31JAP1.SGM 31JAP1 5320 Federal Register / Vol. 79, No. 21 / Friday, January 31, 2014 / Proposed Rules The scope of the proposed inspections may vary depending on the condition of the balloon. We have no way of knowing how extensive an inspection may be necessary for each balloon. The scope of damage found in the proposed inspections could vary significantly from balloon to balloon. We have no way of determining how much damage may be found on each balloon or the cost to repair damaged parts on each balloon or the number of balloons that may require repair. List of Subjects in 14 CFR Part 39 Air transportation, Aircraft, Aviation safety, Incorporation by reference, Safety. 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. emcdonald on DSK67QTVN1PROD with PROPOSALS-1 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 above, 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, 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. VerDate Mar<15>2010 16:29 Jan 30, 2014 Jkt 229001 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 adding the following new AD: ■ Ballonbau Worner GmbH: Docket No. FAA– 2014–0041; Directorate Identifier 2013– CE–053–AD. (a) Comments Due Date We must receive comments by March 17, 2014. (b) Affected ADs None. (c) Applicability ¨ This AD applies to Ballonbau Worner GmbH Model NL–280/STU, NL–380/STU, NL–510/STU, NL–640/STU, NL–840/STU, and NL–1000/STU balloons, all serial numbers, certificated in any category. (d) Subject Air Transport Association of America (ATA) Code 5: Time Limits. (e) Reason This AD was prompted by mandatory continuing airworthiness information (MCAI) originated by an aviation authority of another country to identify and correct an unsafe condition on an aviation product. The MCAI describes the unsafe condition as current inspection intervals are no longer adequate to ensure timely detection of deterioration or damage. If this condition is uncorrected, it could result in reduced structural integrity of the balloon. (f) Actions and Compliance Unless already done, do the actions in paragraphs (f)(1) through (f)(4) of this AD: (1) Before further flight after the effective date of this AD, complete all inspections and maintenance tasks described in the Chapter 5, Annual Inspection, in the Ballonbau ¨ Worner GmbH Instructions for Continued Airworthiness, Gas Balloon Model NL–STU, Issue 1, dated November 2013. (2) If any discrepancies are found during the inspection required in paragraph (f)(1) of this AD, before further flight, repair as applicable following Chapter 6, Standard ¨ Repair Procedures, in the Ballonbau Worner GmbH Instructions for Continued Airworthiness, Gas Balloon Model NL–STU, Issue 1, dated November 2013. PO 00000 Frm 00019 Fmt 4702 Sfmt 4702 (3) If on the effective date of this AD, a balloon has already exceeded the threshold compliance time for the porosity test as defined in Sections 5.1.1.4, 5.1.2.4 and ¨ 5.1.3.4 of Chapter 5 in Ballonbau Worner GmbH Instructions for Continued Airworthiness, Gas Balloon Model NL–STU, Issue 1, dated November 2013, within 3 months after the effective date of this AD, conduct the porosity test following Sections 5.1.1.4, 5.1.2.4 and 5.1.3.4 of Chapter 5 in ¨ Ballonbau Worner GmbH Instructions for Continued Airworthiness, Gas Balloon Model NL–STU, Issue 1, dated November 2013. (4) After the effective date of this AD, do all inspections and necessary repairs following Technische Mitteilung (English translation: Technical Note) Ballonbau ¨ Worner GmbH EASA.BA.009–6, dated ¨ November 7, 2013; and Ballonbau Worner GmbH Instructions for Continued Airworthiness, Gas Balloon Model NL–STU, Issue 1, dated November 2013. Note 1 to paragraph (f) of this AD: Pilots may only accomplish preventative maintenance limited to those items identified in 14 CFR Part 43, Appendix A. (g) Other FAA AD Provisions The following provisions also apply to this AD: (1) Alternative Methods of Compliance (AMOCs): The Manager, Standards Office, FAA, has the authority to approve AMOCs for this AD, if requested using the procedures found in 14 CFR 39.19. Send information to ATTN: Karl Schletzbaum, Aerospace Engineer, FAA, Small Airplane Directorate, 901 Locust, Room 301, Kansas City, Missouri 64106; telephone: (816) 329–4123; fax: (816) 329–4090; email: karl.schletzbaum@faa.gov. Before using any approved AMOC on any airplane to which the AMOC applies, notify your appropriate principal inspector (PI) in the FAA Flight Standards District Office (FSDO), or lacking a PI, your local FSDO. (2) Airworthy Product: For any requirement in this AD to obtain corrective actions from a manufacturer or other source, use these actions if they are FAA-approved. Corrective actions are considered FAA-approved if they are approved by the State of Design Authority (or their delegated agent). You are required to assure the product is airworthy before it is returned to service. (h) Related Information Refer to MCAI European Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) AD No.: 2013–0293R1, dated December 17, 2013, for related information. You may examine the MCAI on the Internet at https://www.regulations.gov by searching for and locating it in Docket No. FAA–2014– 0041. For service information related to this ¨ AD, contact Ballonbau Worner GmbH, Zirbelstrasse 57c, D–86154 Augsburg, Germany; telephone: +49 821 4504060; fax: +49 821 419641; Internet: www.ballonbau.de. You may review this 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. E:\FR\FM\31JAP1.SGM 31JAP1 Federal Register / Vol. 79, No. 21 / Friday, January 31, 2014 / Proposed Rules Issued in Kansas City, Missouri, on January 23, 2014. Earl Lawrence, Manager, Small Airplane Directorate, Aircraft Certification Service. [FR Doc. 2014–01950 Filed 1–30–14; 8:45 am] BILLING CODE 4910–13–P DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION Federal Aviation Administration 14 CFR Part 39 [Docket No. FAA–2014–0038; Directorate Identifier 2013–SW–023–AD] RIN 2120–AA64 Airworthiness Directives; Airbus Helicopters (Type Certificate Previously Held by Eurocopter France) Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), DOT. ACTION: Notice of proposed rulemaking (NPRM). AGENCY: We propose to adopt a new airworthiness directive (AD) for Airbus Model EC225LP helicopters. This proposed AD would require repetitive visual and tap test inspections of each main rotor blade (blade) leading edge stainless steel protective strip (strip) for a crack, cut, or blind or open debonding (debonding), and taking approved corrective measures. If there is a crack or if there is debonding that exceeds acceptable limits, this AD would require, before further flight, repairing or replacing the blade with an airworthy part. This proposed AD is prompted by suspected water seepage through a crack in the blade strip resulting in significant debonding. The proposed actions are intended to prevent loss of the blade strip, excessive vibrations induced by blade weight imbalance, and subsequent loss of control of the helicopter. DATES: We must receive comments on this proposed AD by April 1, 2014. 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. emcdonald on DSK67QTVN1PROD with PROPOSALS-1 SUMMARY: VerDate Mar<15>2010 16:29 Jan 30, 2014 Jkt 229001 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 foreign authority’s 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 Airbus Helicopters, Inc., 2701 N. Forum Drive, Grand Prairie, TX 75052; telephone (972) 641–0000 or (800) 232–0323; fax (972) 641–3775; or at https:// www.airbushelicopters.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: Gary Roach, Aviation Safety Engineer, Regulations and Policy Group, Rotorcraft Directorate, FAA, 2601 Meacham Blvd., Fort Worth, Texas 76137; telephone (817) 222–5110; email gary.b.roach@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. PO 00000 Frm 00020 Fmt 4702 Sfmt 4702 5321 Discussion The European Aviation Safety Agency (EASA), which is the Technical Agent for the Member States of the European Union, issued EASA AD No. 2013–0103, dated May 2, 2013, which supersedes EASA AD No. 2007–0180–E, dated June 29, 2007, to correct an unsafe condition for the Eurocopter Model EC225LP helicopters with certain blades installed. EASA advises that an investigation of significant debonding of a blade strip revealed rapidly progressing debonding caused by water seepage through a crack in the blade strip. EASA AD No. 2007–0180–E required repetitive inspections of the blade strip and accomplishing any corrective actions. After issuance of EASA AD No. 2007–0180–E, Eurocopter developed a modified strip and reidentified blade part numbers with the modified strip. Because these other blades with the modified strip are still susceptible to debonding, EASA issued superseding AD 2013–0103 to extend the applicability to the new partnumbered blades. FAA’s Determination This helicopter has been approved by the aviation authority of France and is approved for operation in the United States. Pursuant to our bilateral agreement with France, EASA, its technical representative, has notified us of the unsafe condition described in the EASA AD. We are 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 the same type design. Related Service Information Eurocopter issued an Emergency Alert Service Bulletin (EASB) No. 05A010, Revision 2, dated April 22, 2013, for the Model EC225LP helicopter and for the non-FAA typed certificated Model EC725AP military helicopter. The EASB specifies a visual check and tapping test of the bonding of the strip on the leading edge of the blades for cracks, cuts, and debonding and taking corrective actions as applicable. Revision 1 to the EASB changed the visual check and the tapping test so that they can be performed without removing the blades. Revision 2 extended the applicability to additional part-numbered blades with a modified strip installed. Proposed AD Requirements This proposed AD would require: • Within 15 hours time-in-service (TIS) and thereafter at intervals not to exceed 85 hours TIS, visually and tap E:\FR\FM\31JAP1.SGM 31JAP1

Agencies

[Federal Register Volume 79, Number 21 (Friday, January 31, 2014)]
[Proposed Rules]
[Pages 5319-5321]
From the Federal Register Online via the Government Printing Office [www.gpo.gov]
[FR Doc No: 2014-01950]


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

DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION

Federal Aviation Administration

14 CFR Part 39

[Docket No. FAA-2014-0041; Directorate Identifier 2013-CE-053-AD]
RIN 2120-AA64


Airworthiness Directives; Ballonbau W[ouml]rner GmbH Balloons

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

ACTION: Notice of proposed rulemaking (NPRM).

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

SUMMARY: We propose to adopt a new airworthiness directive (AD) for 
Ballonbau W[ouml]rner GmbH Models NL-280/STU, NL-380/STU, NL-510/STU, 
NL-640/STU, NL-840/STU, and NL-1000/STU balloons. This proposed AD 
results from mandatory continuing airworthiness information (MCAI) 
originated by an aviation authority of another country to identify and 
correct an unsafe condition on an aviation product. The MCAI describes 
the unsafe condition as current inspection intervals are no longer 
adequate to ensure timely detection of deterioration or damage. We are 
issuing this proposed AD to require actions to address the unsafe 
condition on these products.

DATES: We must receive comments on this proposed AD by March 17, 2014.

ADDRESSES: You may send comments 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: U.S. Department of Transportation, Docket 
Operations, M-30, West Building Ground Floor, Room W12-140, 1200 New 
Jersey Avenue SE., Washington, DC 20590, between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m., 
Monday through Friday, except Federal holidays.
    For service information identified in this proposed AD, contact 
Ballonbau W[ouml]rner GmbH, Zirbelstrasse 57c, D-86154 Augsburg, 
Germany; telephone: +49 821 4504060; fax: +49 821 419641; Internet: 
www.ballonbau.de. You may review this 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.

Examining the AD Docket

    You may examine the AD docket on the Internet at https://www.regulations.gov by searching for and locating it in Docket No. FAA-
2014-0041; or in person at the Docket Management Facility between 9 
a.m. and 5 p.m., Monday through Friday, except Federal holidays. The AD 
docket contains this proposed AD, the regulatory evaluation, any 
comments received, and other information. The street address for the 
Docket Office (telephone (800) 647-5527) is in the ADDRESSES section. 
Comments will be available in the AD docket shortly after receipt.

FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Karl Schletzbaum, Aerospace Engineer, 
FAA, Small Airplane Directorate, 901 Locust, Room 301, Kansas City, 
Missouri 64106; telephone: (816) 329-4123; fax: (816) 329-4090; email: 
karl.schletzbaum@faa.gov.

SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: 

Comments Invited

    We invite you to send any written relevant data, views, or 
arguments about this proposed AD. Send your comments to an address 
listed under the ADDRESSES section. Include ``Docket No. FAA-2014-0041; 
Directorate Identifier 2013-CE-053-AD'' at the beginning of your 
comments. We specifically invite comments on the overall regulatory, 
economic, environmental, and energy aspects of this proposed AD. We 
will consider all comments received by the closing date and may amend 
this proposed AD because of those comments.
    We will post all comments we receive, without change, to https://regulations.gov, including any personal information you provide. We 
will also post a report summarizing each substantive verbal contact we 
receive about this proposed AD.

Discussion

    The European Aviation Safety Agency (EASA), which is the Technical 
Agent for the Member States of the European Community, has issued AD 
No.: 2013-0293R1, dated December 17, 2013 (referred to after this as 
``the MCAI''), to correct an unsafe condition for Ballonbau W[ouml]rner 
GmbH Models NL-280/STU, NL-380/STU, NL-510/STU, NL-640/STU, NL-840/STU, 
and NL-1000/STU balloons. The MCAI states:

    The results of an analysis of NL-STU maintenance data revealed 
that the current inspection intervals are no longer adequate to 
ensure timely detection of deterioration or damage, which could 
affected the structural integrity of the balloon.
    This condition, if not detected and corrected, could lead to 
failure of balloon components or envelope, possibly resulting in 
loss of the balloon.
    To address this potential unsafe condition, Ballonbau 
W[ouml]rner developed new, more detailed and descriptive 
Instructions for Continued Airworthiness (at the same time separated 
from the Flight Manual) and issued Technische Mitteilung/Technical 
Note EASA.BA.009-6 to inform all operators.
    For the reasons described above, EASA issued AD 2013-0293 to 
require compliance with the updated Instructions for Continued 
Airworthiness. This AD is revised to extend the compliance time for 
the initial porosity test, for balloons which have already exceeded 
the relevant threshold.

You may examine the MCAI on the Internet at https://www.regulations.gov 
by searching for and locating it in Docket No. FAA-2014-0041.

Relevant Service Information

    Ballonbau W[ouml]rner GmbH has issued Technische Mitteilung 
(English translation: Technical Note) Ballonbau W[ouml]rner GmbH 
EASA.BA.009-6, dated November 7, 2013; and Ballonbau W[ouml]rner GmbH 
Instructions for Continued Airworthiness, Gas Balloon Model NL-STU, 
Issue 1, dated November 2013. The actions described in this service 
information are intended to correct the unsafe condition identified in 
the MCAI.

FAA's Determination and Requirements of the Proposed AD

    This product has been approved by the aviation authority of another 
country, and is approved for operation in the United States. Pursuant 
to our bilateral agreement with this State of Design Authority, they 
have notified us of the unsafe condition described in the MCAI and 
service information referenced above. We are proposing this AD because 
we evaluated all information and determined the unsafe condition exists 
and is likely to exist or develop on other products of the same type 
design.

Costs of Compliance

    We estimate that this proposed AD will affect 6 products of U.S. 
registry.

[[Page 5320]]

The scope of the proposed inspections may vary depending on the 
condition of the balloon. We have no way of knowing how extensive an 
inspection may be necessary for each balloon. The scope of damage found 
in the proposed inspections could vary significantly from balloon to 
balloon. We have no way of determining how much damage may be found on 
each balloon or the cost to repair damaged parts on each balloon or the 
number of balloons that may require repair.

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 above, 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, 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.

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 AD:

Ballonbau Worner GmbH: Docket No. FAA-2014-0041; Directorate 
Identifier 2013-CE-053-AD.

(a) Comments Due Date

    We must receive comments by March 17, 2014.

(b) Affected ADs

    None.

(c) Applicability

    This AD applies to Ballonbau W[ouml]rner GmbH Model NL-280/STU, 
NL-380/STU, NL-510/STU, NL-640/STU, NL-840/STU, and NL-1000/STU 
balloons, all serial numbers, certificated in any category.

(d) Subject

    Air Transport Association of America (ATA) Code 5: Time Limits.

(e) Reason

    This AD was prompted by mandatory continuing airworthiness 
information (MCAI) originated by an aviation authority of another 
country to identify and correct an unsafe condition on an aviation 
product. The MCAI describes the unsafe condition as current 
inspection intervals are no longer adequate to ensure timely 
detection of deterioration or damage. If this condition is 
uncorrected, it could result in reduced structural integrity of the 
balloon.

(f) Actions and Compliance

    Unless already done, do the actions in paragraphs (f)(1) through 
(f)(4) of this AD:
    (1) Before further flight after the effective date of this AD, 
complete all inspections and maintenance tasks described in the 
Chapter 5, Annual Inspection, in the Ballonbau W[ouml]rner GmbH 
Instructions for Continued Airworthiness, Gas Balloon Model NL-STU, 
Issue 1, dated November 2013.
    (2) If any discrepancies are found during the inspection 
required in paragraph (f)(1) of this AD, before further flight, 
repair as applicable following Chapter 6, Standard Repair 
Procedures, in the Ballonbau W[ouml]rner GmbH Instructions for 
Continued Airworthiness, Gas Balloon Model NL-STU, Issue 1, dated 
November 2013.
    (3) If on the effective date of this AD, a balloon has already 
exceeded the threshold compliance time for the porosity test as 
defined in Sections 5.1.1.4, 5.1.2.4 and 5.1.3.4 of Chapter 5 in 
Ballonbau W[ouml]rner GmbH Instructions for Continued Airworthiness, 
Gas Balloon Model NL-STU, Issue 1, dated November 2013, within 3 
months after the effective date of this AD, conduct the porosity 
test following Sections 5.1.1.4, 5.1.2.4 and 5.1.3.4 of Chapter 5 in 
Ballonbau W[ouml]rner GmbH Instructions for Continued Airworthiness, 
Gas Balloon Model NL-STU, Issue 1, dated November 2013.
    (4) After the effective date of this AD, do all inspections and 
necessary repairs following Technische Mitteilung (English 
translation: Technical Note) Ballonbau W[ouml]rner GmbH EASA.BA.009-
6, dated November 7, 2013; and Ballonbau W[ouml]rner GmbH 
Instructions for Continued Airworthiness, Gas Balloon Model NL-STU, 
Issue 1, dated November 2013.

    Note 1 to paragraph (f) of this AD:  Pilots may only accomplish 
preventative maintenance limited to those items identified in 14 CFR 
Part 43, Appendix A.

(g) Other FAA AD Provisions

    The following provisions also apply to this AD:
    (1) Alternative Methods of Compliance (AMOCs): The Manager, 
Standards Office, FAA, has the authority to approve AMOCs for this 
AD, if requested using the procedures found in 14 CFR 39.19. Send 
information to ATTN: Karl Schletzbaum, Aerospace Engineer, FAA, 
Small Airplane Directorate, 901 Locust, Room 301, Kansas City, 
Missouri 64106; telephone: (816) 329-4123; fax: (816) 329-4090; 
email: karl.schletzbaum@faa.gov. Before using any approved AMOC on 
any airplane to which the AMOC applies, notify your appropriate 
principal inspector (PI) in the FAA Flight Standards District Office 
(FSDO), or lacking a PI, your local FSDO.
    (2) Airworthy Product: For any requirement in this AD to obtain 
corrective actions from a manufacturer or other source, use these 
actions if they are FAA-approved. Corrective actions are considered 
FAA-approved if they are approved by the State of Design Authority 
(or their delegated agent). You are required to assure the product 
is airworthy before it is returned to service.

(h) Related Information

    Refer to MCAI European Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) AD No.: 
2013-0293R1, dated December 17, 2013, for related information. You 
may examine the MCAI on the Internet at https://www.regulations.gov 
by searching for and locating it in Docket No. FAA-2014-0041. For 
service information related to this AD, contact Ballonbau 
W[ouml]rner GmbH, Zirbelstrasse 57c, D-86154 Augsburg, Germany; 
telephone: +49 821 4504060; fax: +49 821 419641; Internet: 
www.ballonbau.de. You may review this 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.


[[Page 5321]]


    Issued in Kansas City, Missouri, on January 23, 2014.
Earl Lawrence,
Manager, Small Airplane Directorate, Aircraft Certification Service.
[FR Doc. 2014-01950 Filed 1-30-14; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE 4910-13-P
This site is protected by reCAPTCHA and the Google Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply.