Airworthiness Directives; M7 Aerospace LLC Airplanes, 24553-24556 [2014-09419]

Download as PDF Federal Register / Vol. 79, No. 84 / Thursday, May 1, 2014 / Rules and Regulations repeat the required actions of paragraph (e)(1) of this AD at intervals not to exceed 200 additional hours TIS or 6 months, whichever occurs first. (3) Do not install a bolt that has accumulated more than 400 hours TIS on any helicopter unless it has passed the required actions of paragraph (e)(1) of this AD. (f) Alternative Methods of Compliance (AMOCs) (1) The Manager, Safety Management Group, FAA, may approve AMOCs for this AD. Send your proposal to: Robert Grant, Aviation Safety Engineer, Safety Management Group, FAA, 2601 Meacham Blvd., Fort Worth, Texas 76137; telephone (817) 222– 5110; email robert.grant@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 The subject of this AD is addressed in European Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) AD No. 2013–0009, dated January 11, 2013. You may view the EASA AD on the Internet at https://www.regulations.gov in Docket No. FAA–2013–0943. tkelley on DSK3SPTVN1PROD with RULES (h) Subject Joint Aircraft Service Component (JASC) Code: 6400, Tail Rotor. (i) Material Incorporated by Reference (1) The Director of the Federal Register approved the incorporation by reference (IBR) of the service information listed in this paragraph under 5 U.S.C. 552(a) and 1 CFR part 51. (2) You must use this service information as applicable to do the actions required by this AD, unless the AD specifies otherwise. (i) AgustaWestland Bollettino Tecnico No. 109–135, December 19, 2012. (ii) AgustaWestland Bollettino Tecnico No. 109EP–125, December 19, 2012. (iii) AgustaWestland Bollettino Tecnico No. 109K–55, December 19, 2012. (iv) AgustaWestland Bollettino Tecnico No. 119–052, December 19, 2012. (3) For AgustaWestland service information identified in this AD, contact AgustaWestland, Product Support Engineering, Via del Gregge, 100, 21015 Lonate Pozzolo (VA) Italy, ATTN: Maurizio D’Angelo; telephone 39–0331–664757; fax 39–0331–664680; or at https:// www.agustawestland.com/technicalbulletins. (4) You may view this service information at FAA, Office of the Regional Counsel, Southwest Region, 2601 Meacham Blvd., Room 663, Fort Worth, Texas 76137. For information on the availability of this material at the FAA, call (817) 222–5110. (5) You may view this service information that is incorporated by reference at the National Archives and Records Administration (NARA). For information on the availability of this material at NARA, call VerDate Mar<15>2010 16:24 Apr 30, 2014 Jkt 232001 (202) 741–6030, or go to: https:// www.archives.gov/federal-register/cfr/ibrlocations.html. Issued in Fort Worth, Texas, on April 18, 2014. Lance T. Gant, Acting Directorate Manager, Rotorcraft Directorate, Aircraft Certification Service. [FR Doc. 2014–09414 Filed 4–30–14; 8:45 am] BILLING CODE 4910–13–P DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION Federal Aviation Administration 14 CFR Part 39 [Docket No. FAA–2014–0023; Directorate Identifier 2013–CE–048–AD; Amendment 39–17837; AD 2014–09–02] RIN 2120–AA64 Airworthiness Directives; M7 Aerospace LLC Airplanes Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), DOT. ACTION: Final rule. AGENCY: We are adopting a new airworthiness directive (AD) for certain M7 Aerospace LLC Models SA26–T, SA26–AT, SA226–AT, SA226–T, SA226–T(B), SA226–TC, SA227–AC (C– 26A), SA227–AT, SA227–TT, SA227– BC (C–26A), SA227–CC, and SA227–DC (C–26B) airplanes. This AD was prompted by reports of jamming of the aileron control cable chain in the pilot and copilot control columns due to inadequate lubrication and maintenance of the chain. This AD requires repetitively replacing and lubricating the aileron chain, sprocket, and bearings in the control columns. We are issuing this AD to correct the unsafe condition on these products. DATES: This AD is effective June 5, 2014. The Director of the Federal Register approved the incorporation by reference of certain publications listed in the AD as of June 5, 2014. ADDRESSES: For service information identified in this AD, contact M7 Aerospace LP, 10823 NE Entrance Road, San Antonio, Texas 78216; phone: (210) 824–9421; fax: (210) 804–7766; Internet: https://www.elbitsystems-us.com; email: none. 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. Examining the AD Docket You may examine the AD docket on the Internet at https:// Frm 00027 Fmt 4700 Sfmt 4700 www.regulations.gov by searching for and locating it in Docket No. FAA– 2014–0023; 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 AD, the regulatory evaluation, any comments received, and other information. The address for the Docket Office (phone: 800–647–5527) is Document Management Facility, U.S. Department of Transportation, Docket Operations, M–30, West Building Ground Floor, Room W12–140, 1200 New Jersey Avenue SE., Washington, DC 20590. FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Andrew McAnaul, Aerospace Engineer, FAA, ASW–150 (c/o San Antonio MIDO), 10100 Reunion Place, Suite 650, San Antonio, Texas 78216; phone: (210) 308–3365; fax: (210) 308–3370; email: andrew.mcanaul@faa.gov. SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: Discussion SUMMARY: PO 00000 24553 We issued a notice of proposed rulemaking (NPRM) to amend 14 CFR part 39 to include an AD that would apply to certain M7 Aerospace LLC Models SA26–T, SA26–AT, SA226–AT, SA226–T, SA226–T(B), SA226–TC, SA227–AC (C–26A), SA227–AT, SA227–TT, SA227–BC (C–26A), SA227– CC, and SA227–DC (C–26B) airplanes. The NPRM published in the Federal Register on January 21, 2014 (79 FR 3336). The NPRM proposed to require repetitively replacing and lubricating the aileron chain, sprocket, and bearings in the control columns. Comments We gave the public the opportunity to participate in developing this AD. The following presents the comments received on the proposal and the FAA’s response to the comments. Request To Withdraw the Proposed AD Pat Kremer of Ameriflight, LLC stated that the proposed AD is too broad of a stroke across the industry because of a limited number of operators that have not performed maintenance to the level in the proposed AD. Pat Kremer also stated they replace the aileron chains every 10,000 hours time-in-service (TIS) (the compliance time in the proposed AD), along with the respective cables, on their fleet of 45 Model SA227 airplanes, and they have only occasionally found bearings that are worn. He also stated that they have never found a faulty sprocket. From these statements, we infer that Pat Kremer wants the proposed AD withdrawn because it is unnecessary E:\FR\FM\01MYR1.SGM 01MYR1 24554 Federal Register / Vol. 79, No. 84 / Thursday, May 1, 2014 / Rules and Regulations and already covered through general maintenance. We do not agree with the commenter. The flight hour and calendar replacement times in the proposed AD were based on service history showing wear and corrosion in the aileron chains and metal wear to the sprocket teeth. For example, a worn chain that jammed in the control column had only 7,000 total hours TIS and 17 years in service. Another operator found a severely corroded chain that had been installed for 18 years. M7 Aerospace, LLC received two aileron chains replaced by an operator after 10,000 hours TIS and thought to be ‘‘good’’; however, M7 found those chains had small metal particles within the grease, not from the chain but from worn sprockets. We also mirrored the required replacement times specified in the related service information provided by M7 Aerospace, LLC, the type certificate holder. M7 Aerospace, LLC. Customer Support representatives have a long history with these airplanes and have regularly seen issues over the last 30 years where the chains and bearings need to be replaced. Based on their service history experience, M7 Aerospace, LLC believes and the FAA has determined that including replacement of the sprocket and bearing with the chain replacement more fully addresses the unsafe condition. Although some operators do repetitively replace the aileron chains during cable replacement without finding damage, the original maintenance requirements do not clearly require mandatory periodic replacement of the chain, sprocket, and bearings, as intended by the airplane’s manufacturer. We believe the replacement times in the proposed AD are necessary to assure that no unsafe condition develops due to an operator failing to comply with the proposed replacement times and lubrication requirements. We have not changed the final rule AD action based on this comment. Request To Incorporate Revised Service Bulletin M7 Aerospace, LLC requested that we incorporate Revision 3 of SA26 Series Service Bulletin 26–27–001, dated April 8, 2014, into the AD to replace SA26 Series Service Bulletin 26–27–001 R2, dated October 23, 2013. M7 Aerospace, LLC issued revision 3 to correct the part number of the chain in Steps 1.D.(1)(a) NOTE, 1.D.(4), 2.A.(2), and Table 1. Revision 3 also states that this part number chain must be used with new sprocket per Kit 26K71004–001. The SA26 airplanes were supplied with chain P/N 26– 71026–001 and sprocket P/N 26–71010– 001 from the factory. This chain and sprocket are a matched set. The new replacement chain P/N 27–71026–003 and sprocket included in kit P/N 27K71004–001 are also a matched set. Do not cross mix and match these chains and sprockets as the sprockets have different teeth pitch to mate with their respective chain. Only install either the chain P/N 27–71026–003 with sprocket kit P/N 27K71004–001 as a matched set or alternatively chain P/N 26–71026–001 with sprocket P/N 26– 71010–001 as a matched set. We agree with the commenter and have changed the final rule AD action based on this comment. Conclusion We reviewed the relevant data, considered the comments received, and determined that air safety and the public interest require adopting the AD with the changes described previously and minor editorial changes. We have determined that these minor changes: • Are consistent with the intent that was proposed in the NPRM (79 FR 3336, January 21, 2014) for correcting the unsafe condition; and • Do not add any additional burden upon the public than was already proposed in the NPRM (79 FR 3336, January 21, 2014). We also determined that these changes will not increase the economic burden on any operator or increase the scope of the AD. Costs of Compliance We estimate that this AD affects 360 airplanes of U.S. registry. We estimate the following costs to comply with this AD: ESTIMATED COSTS Action Labor cost Parts cost Cost per product Cost on U.S. operators Replacing and lubricating the aileron chain, sprocket, and bearings in the control columns. 20 work-hours × $85 per hour = $1,700 $1,935 $3,635 $1,308,600 tkelley on DSK3SPTVN1PROD with RULES 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 VerDate Mar<15>2010 16:24 Apr 30, 2014 Jkt 232001 because it addresses an unsafe condition that is likely to exist or develop on products identified in this rulemaking action. Regulatory Findings This AD will not have federalism implications under Executive Order 13132. This AD will not have a substantial direct effect on the States, on the relationship between the national government and the States, or on the distribution of power and responsibilities among the various levels of government. For the reasons discussed above, I certify that this AD: (1) Is not a ‘‘significant regulatory action’’ under Executive Order 12866, PO 00000 Frm 00028 Fmt 4700 Sfmt 4700 (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, 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. 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\01MYR1.SGM 01MYR1 Federal Register / Vol. 79, No. 84 / Thursday, May 1, 2014 / 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): ■ 2014–09–02 M7 Aerospace LLC: Amendment 39–17837; Docket No. FAA–2014–0023; Directorate Identifier 2013–CE–048–AD. (a) Effective Date This AD is effective June 5, 2014. (b) Affected ADs None. (c) Applicability This AD applies to M7 Aerospace LLC Models SA226–AT, SA226–T, SA226–T(B), SA226–TC, SA227–AC (C–26A), SA227–AT, SA227–TT, SA227–BC (C–26A), SA227–CC, and SA227–DC (C–26B) airplanes, all serial numbers; Model SA26–T airplanes, serial numbers T26–2 through T26–99; and Model SA26–AT airplanes, serial numbers AT26– 100 through AT26–180E, certificated in any category. (d) Subject Joint Aircraft System Component (JASC)/ Air Transport Association (ATA) of America Code: 27, Flight Controls. (e) Unsafe Condition This AD was prompted by reports of jamming of the aileron control cable chain in the pilot and copilot control columns. We are issuing the AD to prevent jamming of the aileron control cable chain, which could result in loss of control. tkelley on DSK3SPTVN1PROD with RULES (f) Compliance Comply with this AD by doing the actions specified in paragraph (g) through paragraph (h) of this AD, including all subparagraphs, unless already done. (g) Initially Replace and Lubricate the Aileron Control Cable Chain, Sprocket, and Bearings Initially replace and lubricate the aileron control cable chain, sprocket, and bearings, and check the aileron control cable tension based on the conditions and compliance times in paragraphs (g)(1), (g)(2), and (g)(3) of this AD, including all subparagraphs. The corrosion preventative must be removed from the chain (but not the cable) and the required actions must be done following the Accomplishment Instructions in M7 Aerospace LLC SA26 Series Service Bulletin 26–27–001 R3, dated April 8, 2014; M7 Aerospace LLC SA226 Series Service Bulletin 226–27–074 R2, dated October 23, 2013; M7 Aerospace LLC SA227 Series Service Bulletin 227–27–054 R2, dated October 23, 2013; and M7 Aerospace LLC SA227 Series Commuter Category Service Bulletin CC7–27–026 R2, dated October 23, 2013, as applicable. VerDate Mar<15>2010 16:24 Apr 30, 2014 Jkt 232001 Criteria for the term ‘‘properly lubricated’’ is included in paragraphs 5a, 5b, and 5c of the Accomplishment Instructions section of M7 Aerospace LLC SA26 Series Service Bulletin 26–27–001 R3, dated April 8, 2014, and paragraphs 6a, 6b, and 6c of the Accomplishment Instructions section of M7 Aerospace LLC SA226 Series Service Bulletin 226–27–074 R2, dated October 23, 2013; M7 Aerospace LLC SA227 Series Service Bulletin 227–27–054 R2, dated October 23, 2013; and M7 Aerospace LLC SA227 Series Commuter Category Service Bulletin CC7–27–026 R2, dated October 23, 2013. (1) A review of the airplane records positively indicates that the aileron control cable chain in the pilot’s and the copilot’s control columns have been replaced and properly lubricated: At whichever of the compliance times specified in paragraphs (g)(1)(i) or (g)(1)(ii) of this AD that occurs later. (i) On or before reaching 10,000 hours time-in-service (TIS) from the time of the last aileron control cable chain replacement or within 13 years from the date of the last aileron control cable chain replacement, whichever occurs first. (ii) Within the next 24 months from June 5, 2014 (the effective date of this AD). (2) A review of the airplane records positively indicates that the aileron control cable chain in the pilot’s and the copilot’s control columns have been replaced within the last 10,000 hours TIS, but proper lubrication cannot be verified: At whichever of the compliance times specified in paragraphs (g)(2)(i) or (g)(2)(ii) of this AD that occurs first. (i) On or before reaching 10,000 hours TIS since the last replacement or within the next 1,000 hours TIS after June 5, 2014 (the effective date of this AD), whichever occurs later. (ii) Within the next 24 months from June 5, 2014 (the effective date of this AD). (3) A review of the airplane records does not positively indicate that the aileron control cable chain in the pilot’s and the copilot’s control columns have been replaced within the last 10,000 hours TIS: At the compliance times specified in paragraphs (g)(3)(i), (g)(3)(ii), (g)(3)(iii), and (g)(3)(iv) of this AD, as applicable. (i) For airplanes with less than 10,000 hours TIS: At whichever of the compliance times specified in paragraphs (3)(i)(A) or (3)(i)(B) of this AD that occurs first: (A) On or before reaching 10,000 hours TIS or within the next 1,000 hours TIS after June 5, 2014 (the effective date of this AD), whichever occurs later. (B) Within the next 24 months after June 5, 2014 (the effective date of this AD). (ii) For airplanes with 10,000 hours TIS or more but less than 20,001 hours TIS: Within the next 1,000 hours TIS after June 5, 2014 (the effective date of this AD) or within the next 12 calendar months after June 5, 2014 (the effective date of this AD), whichever occurs first. (iii) For airplanes with 20,001 hours TIS or more but less than 30,001 hours TIS: Within the next 750 hours TIS after June 5, 2014 (the effective date of this AD) or within the next 6 calendar months after June 5, 2014 (the PO 00000 Frm 00029 Fmt 4700 Sfmt 4700 24555 effective date of this AD), whichever occurs first. (iv) For airplanes with 30,001 hours TIS or more: Within the next 400 hours TIS after June 5, 2014 (the effective date of this AD) or within the next 3 calendar months after June 5, 2014 (the effective date of this AD), whichever occurs first. (h) Repetitively Replace and Lubricate the Aileron Control Cable Chain, Sprocket, and Bearings Replace and lubricate the aileron control cable chain, sprocket, and bearings, and check the aileron control cable tension repetitively thereafter at intervals not to exceed 10,000 hours TIS or 13 years after the date of the last aileron control cable chain replacement, whichever occurs first. The corrosion preventative must be removed from the chain (but not the cable) and the required actions must be done following the Accomplishment Instructions in M7 Aerospace LLC SA26 Series Service Bulletin 26–27–001 R3, dated April 8, 2014; M7 Aerospace LLC SA226 Series Service Bulletin 226–27–074 R2, dated October 23, 2013; M7 Aerospace LLC SA227 Series Service Bulletin 227–27–054 R2, dated October 23, 2013; and M7 Aerospace LLC SA227 Series Commuter Category Service Bulletin CC7–27–026 R2, dated October 23, 2013, as applicable. (i) Credit for Actions Done Following Previous Service Information This AD allows credit for the actions required in paragraphs (g)(1) through (g)(3) of this AD, including all subparagraphs, if done before June 5, 2014 (the effective date of this AD), following M7 Aerospace LLC SA26 Series Service Bulletin 26–27–001, dated June 6, 2013, or Service Bulletin 26–27–001 R1, dated September 30, 2013; M7 Aerospace LLC SA226 Series Service Bulletin 226–27– 074, dated June 6, 2013, or Service Bulletin 226–27–074 R1, dated September 30, 2013; M7 Aerospace LLC SA227 Series Service Bulletin 227–27–054, dated June 6, 2013, or Service Bulletin 227–27–054 R1, dated September 30, 2013; and M7 Aerospace LLC SA227 Series Commuter Category Service Bulletin CC7–27–026, dated June 6, 2013, or Service Bulletin CC7–27–026 R1, dated September 30, 2013, as applicable. (j) Paperwork Reduction Act Burden Statement A federal agency may not conduct or sponsor, and a person is not required to respond to, nor shall a person be subject to a penalty for failure to comply with a collection of information subject to the requirements of the Paperwork Reduction Act unless that collection of information displays a current valid OMB Control Number. The OMB Control Number for this information collection is 2120–0056. Public reporting for this collection of information is estimated to be approximately 5 minutes per response, including the time for reviewing instructions, completing and reviewing the collection of information. All responses to this collection of information are mandatory. Comments concerning the accuracy of this burden and suggestions for reducing the burden should be directed to the FAA at: 800 Independence Ave. SW., Washington, DC E:\FR\FM\01MYR1.SGM 01MYR1 24556 Federal Register / Vol. 79, No. 84 / Thursday, May 1, 2014 / Rules and Regulations 20591, Attn: Information Collection Clearance Officer, AES–200. (k) Alternative Methods of Compliance (AMOCs) (1) The Manager, Fort Worth Airplane Certification Office, FAA, has the authority to approve AMOCs for this AD, if requested using the procedures found in 14 CFR 39.19. In accordance with 14 CFR 39.19, send your request to your principal inspector or local Flight Standards District Office, as appropriate. If sending information directly to the manager of the ACO, send it to the attention of the person identified in the Related Information section of this AD. (2) Before using any approved AMOC, notify your appropriate principal inspector, or lacking a principal inspector, the manager of the local flight standards district office/ certificate holding district office. (l) Related Information For more information about this AD, contact Andrew McAnaul, Aerospace Engineer, FAA, ASW–150 (c/o San Antonio MIDO), 10100 Reunion Place, Suite 650, San Antonio, Texas 78216; phone: (210) 308– 3365; fax: (210) 308–3370; email: andrew.mcanaul@faa.gov. tkelley on DSK3SPTVN1PROD with RULES (m) Material Incorporated by Reference (1) The Director of the Federal Register approved the incorporation by reference (IBR) of the service information listed in this paragraph under 5 U.S.C. 552(a) and 1 CFR part 51. (2) You must use this service information as applicable to do the actions required by this AD, unless the AD specifies otherwise. (i) M7 Aerospace LLC SA26 Series Service Bulletin 26–27–001 R3, dated April 8, 2014. (ii) M7 Aerospace LLC SA226 Series Service Bulletin 226–27–074 R2, dated October 23, 2013. (iii) M7 Aerospace LLC SA227 Series Service Bulletin 227–27–054 R2, dated October 23, 2013. (iv) M7 Aerospace LLC SA227 Series Commuter Category Service Bulletin CC7– 27–026 R2, dated October 23, 2013. (3) For M7 Aerospace service information identified in this AD, contact M7 Aerospace LP, 10823 NE Entrance Road, San Antonio, Texas 78216; phone: (210) 824–9421; fax: (210) 804–7766; Internet: https:// www.elbitsystems-us.com; email: none. (4) You may view this service information at FAA, Small Airplane Directorate, 901 Locust, Kansas City, Missouri 64106. For information on the availability of this material at the FAA, call 816–329–4148. (5) You may view this service information that is incorporated by reference at the National Archives and Records Administration (NARA). For information on the availability of this material at NARA, call 202–741–6030, or go to: https:// www.archives.gov/federal-register/cfr/ibrlocations.html. VerDate Mar<15>2010 16:24 Apr 30, 2014 Jkt 232001 Issued in Kansas City, Missouri, on April 18, 2014. Earl Lawrence, Manager, Small Airplane Directorate, Aircraft Certification Service. [FR Doc. 2014–09419 Filed 4–30–14; 8:45 am] BILLING CODE 4910–13–P DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION Federal Aviation Administration FAA, Small Airplane Directorate, 901 Locust, Kansas City, Missouri 64106. For information on the availability of this material at the FAA, call (816) 329– 4148. FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Albert Mercado, Aerospace Engineer, FAA, Small Airplane Directorate, 901 Locust, Room 301, Kansas City, Missouri 64106; telephone: (816) 329– 4119; fax: (816) 329–4090; email: albert.mercado@faa.gov. 14 CFR Part 39 SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: [Docket No. FAA–2014–0031; Directorate Identifier 2013–CE–054–AD; Amendment 39–17838; AD 2014–09–03] Discussion RIN 2120–AA64 Airworthiness Directives; SOCATA Airplanes Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), Department of Transportation (DOT). ACTION: Final rule. AGENCY: We are superseding Airworthiness Directive (AD) 99–07–11 for SOCATA Model TBM 700 airplanes. This AD results from mandatory continuing airworthiness information (MCAI) issued by an aviation authority of another country to identify and correct an unsafe condition on an aviation product. The MCAI describes the unsafe condition as cracks on the outboard hinge fittings. We are issuing this AD to require actions to address the unsafe condition on these products. DATES: This AD is effective June 5, 2014. The Director of the Federal Register approved the incorporation by reference of a certain publication listed in the AD as of June 5, 2014. ADDRESSES: You may examine the AD docket on the Internet at https:// www.regulations.gov by searching for and locating Docket No. FAA–2014– 0031; or in person at the Docket Management Facility, U.S. Department of Transportation, Docket Operations, M–30, West Building Ground Floor, Room W12–140, 1200 New Jersey Avenue SE., Washington, DC 20590. For service information identified in this AD, contact SOCATA, Direction des Services, 65921 Tarbes Cedex 9, France; telephone +33 (0) 5 62 41 73 00; fax +33 (0) 5 62 41 76 54, or for North America: SOCATA NORTH AMERICA, North Perry Airport, 7501 South Airport Road, Pembroke Pines, Florida 33023; telephone: (954) 893–1400; fax: (954) 964–4141; email: mysocata@ socata.daher.com; Internet: www.mysocata.com. You may view this referenced service information at the SUMMARY: PO 00000 Frm 00030 Fmt 4700 Sfmt 4700 We issued a notice of proposed rulemaking (NPRM) to amend 14 CFR part 39 to add an AD that would apply to certain SOCATA Model TBM 700 airplanes. The NPRM was published in the Federal Register on January 27, 2014 (79 FR 4300), and proposed to supersede AD 99–07–11, Amendment 39–11096 (64 FR 14820, March 29, 1999) (‘‘AD 99–07–11’’). Since we issued AD 99–07–11 (64 FR 14820, March 29, 1999), SOCATA determined that the cause of the cracks in the horizontal stabilizer outboard hinge fitting was due to the incorrect installation of the fittings during production, which induced stress. SOCATA has issued new mandatory service information to require a modification to the outboard hinge fittings of the horizontal stabilizer to eliminate the stress. The European Aviation Safety Agency (EASA), which is the Technical Agent for the Member States of the European Community, has issued AD No. 2013– 0035, dated February 22, 2013 (referred to after this as ‘‘the MCAI’’), to correct an unsafe condition for the specified products. The MCAI states: During the 1990s, several occurrences were reported of finding cracks in the outboard hinge fittings of the horizontal stabiliser on TBM 700 aeroplanes. This condition, if not detected and corrected, could result in rupture of the outboard hinge fittings, which would adversely affect the structural integrity of the horizontal stabiliser. The in-flight loss of the horizontal stabiliser would result in reduced control of the aeroplane, To address this unsafe condition, DGAC France issued AD 1999–060(A), requiring repetitive inspections of the fittings and, depending on findings, corrective action. After that AD was issued, SOCATA determined that the cause of the cracks was a wrong installation of the fittings during production, inducing stress. Consequently, DGAC France issued AD 2000–307(A), partially retaining the requirements of DGAC France AD 1999–060(A), which was superseded, and required, depending on findings, that the installation of the fittings of in-service aeroplanes be rectified by E:\FR\FM\01MYR1.SGM 01MYR1

Agencies

[Federal Register Volume 79, Number 84 (Thursday, May 1, 2014)]
[Rules and Regulations]
[Pages 24553-24556]
From the Federal Register Online via the Government Printing Office [www.gpo.gov]
[FR Doc No: 2014-09419]


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

DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION

Federal Aviation Administration

14 CFR Part 39

[Docket No. FAA-2014-0023; Directorate Identifier 2013-CE-048-AD; 
Amendment 39-17837; AD 2014-09-02]
RIN 2120-AA64


Airworthiness Directives; M7 Aerospace LLC Airplanes

AGENCY: Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), DOT.

ACTION: Final rule.

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

SUMMARY: We are adopting a new airworthiness directive (AD) for certain 
M7 Aerospace LLC Models SA26-T, SA26-AT, SA226-AT, SA226-T, SA226-T(B), 
SA226-TC, SA227-AC (C-26A), SA227-AT, SA227-TT, SA227-BC (C-26A), 
SA227-CC, and SA227-DC (C-26B) airplanes. This AD was prompted by 
reports of jamming of the aileron control cable chain in the pilot and 
copilot control columns due to inadequate lubrication and maintenance 
of the chain. This AD requires repetitively replacing and lubricating 
the aileron chain, sprocket, and bearings in the control columns. We 
are issuing this AD to correct the unsafe condition on these products.

DATES: This AD is effective June 5, 2014.
    The Director of the Federal Register approved the incorporation by 
reference of certain publications listed in the AD as of June 5, 2014.

ADDRESSES: For service information identified in this AD, contact M7 
Aerospace LP, 10823 NE Entrance Road, San Antonio, Texas 78216; phone: 
(210) 824-9421; fax: (210) 804-7766; Internet: https://www.elbitsystems-us.com; email: none. 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.

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-
2014-0023; 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 AD, the regulatory evaluation, any comments 
received, and other information. The address for the Docket Office 
(phone: 800-647-5527) is Document Management Facility, U.S. Department 
of Transportation, Docket Operations, M-30, West Building Ground Floor, 
Room W12-140, 1200 New Jersey Avenue SE., Washington, DC 20590.

FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Andrew McAnaul, Aerospace Engineer, 
FAA, ASW-150 (c/o San Antonio MIDO), 10100 Reunion Place, Suite 650, 
San Antonio, Texas 78216; phone: (210) 308-3365; fax: (210) 308-3370; 
email: andrew.mcanaul@faa.gov.

SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION:

Discussion

    We issued a notice of proposed rulemaking (NPRM) to amend 14 CFR 
part 39 to include an AD that would apply to certain M7 Aerospace LLC 
Models SA26-T, SA26-AT, SA226-AT, SA226-T, SA226-T(B), SA226-TC, SA227-
AC (C-26A), SA227-AT, SA227-TT, SA227-BC (C-26A), SA227-CC, and SA227-
DC (C-26B) airplanes. The NPRM published in the Federal Register on 
January 21, 2014 (79 FR 3336). The NPRM proposed to require 
repetitively replacing and lubricating the aileron chain, sprocket, and 
bearings in the control columns.

Comments

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

Request To Withdraw the Proposed AD

    Pat Kremer of Ameriflight, LLC stated that the proposed AD is too 
broad of a stroke across the industry because of a limited number of 
operators that have not performed maintenance to the level in the 
proposed AD.
    Pat Kremer also stated they replace the aileron chains every 10,000 
hours time-in-service (TIS) (the compliance time in the proposed AD), 
along with the respective cables, on their fleet of 45 Model SA227 
airplanes, and they have only occasionally found bearings that are 
worn. He also stated that they have never found a faulty sprocket.
    From these statements, we infer that Pat Kremer wants the proposed 
AD withdrawn because it is unnecessary

[[Page 24554]]

and already covered through general maintenance.
    We do not agree with the commenter. The flight hour and calendar 
replacement times in the proposed AD were based on service history 
showing wear and corrosion in the aileron chains and metal wear to the 
sprocket teeth. For example, a worn chain that jammed in the control 
column had only 7,000 total hours TIS and 17 years in service. Another 
operator found a severely corroded chain that had been installed for 18 
years. M7 Aerospace, LLC received two aileron chains replaced by an 
operator after 10,000 hours TIS and thought to be ``good''; however, M7 
found those chains had small metal particles within the grease, not 
from the chain but from worn sprockets. We also mirrored the required 
replacement times specified in the related service information provided 
by M7 Aerospace, LLC, the type certificate holder. M7 Aerospace, LLC. 
Customer Support representatives have a long history with these 
airplanes and have regularly seen issues over the last 30 years where 
the chains and bearings need to be replaced. Based on their service 
history experience, M7 Aerospace, LLC believes and the FAA has 
determined that including replacement of the sprocket and bearing with 
the chain replacement more fully addresses the unsafe condition. 
Although some operators do repetitively replace the aileron chains 
during cable replacement without finding damage, the original 
maintenance requirements do not clearly require mandatory periodic 
replacement of the chain, sprocket, and bearings, as intended by the 
airplane's manufacturer. We believe the replacement times in the 
proposed AD are necessary to assure that no unsafe condition develops 
due to an operator failing to comply with the proposed replacement 
times and lubrication requirements.
    We have not changed the final rule AD action based on this comment.

Request To Incorporate Revised Service Bulletin

    M7 Aerospace, LLC requested that we incorporate Revision 3 of SA26 
Series Service Bulletin 26-27-001, dated April 8, 2014, into the AD to 
replace SA26 Series Service Bulletin 26-27-001 R2, dated October 23, 
2013.
    M7 Aerospace, LLC issued revision 3 to correct the part number of 
the chain in Steps 1.D.(1)(a) NOTE, 1.D.(4), 2.A.(2), and Table 1. 
Revision 3 also states that this part number chain must be used with 
new sprocket per Kit 26K71004-001. The SA26 airplanes were supplied 
with chain P/N 26-71026-001 and sprocket P/N 26-71010-001 from the 
factory. This chain and sprocket are a matched set. The new replacement 
chain P/N 27-71026-003 and sprocket included in kit P/N 27K71004-001 
are also a matched set. Do not cross mix and match these chains and 
sprockets as the sprockets have different teeth pitch to mate with 
their respective chain. Only install either the chain P/N 27-71026-003 
with sprocket kit P/N 27K71004-001 as a matched set or alternatively 
chain P/N 26-71026-001 with sprocket P/N 26-71010-001 as a matched set.
    We agree with the commenter and have changed the final rule AD 
action based on this comment.

Conclusion

    We reviewed the relevant data, considered the comments received, 
and determined that air safety and the public interest require adopting 
the AD with the changes described previously and minor editorial 
changes. We have determined that these minor changes:
     Are consistent with the intent that was proposed in the 
NPRM (79 FR 3336, January 21, 2014) for correcting the unsafe 
condition; and
     Do not add any additional burden upon the public than was 
already proposed in the NPRM (79 FR 3336, January 21, 2014).
    We also determined that these changes will not increase the 
economic burden on any operator or increase the scope of the AD.

Costs of Compliance

    We estimate that this AD affects 360 airplanes of U.S. registry.
    We estimate the following costs to comply with this AD:

                                                 Estimated Costs
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                                     Cost per      Cost on U.S.
                Action                         Labor cost           Parts cost        product        operators
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Replacing and lubricating the aileron   20 work-hours x $85 per          $1,935          $3,635      $1,308,600
 chain, sprocket, and bearings in the    hour = $1,700.
 control columns.
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

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

    This AD will not have federalism implications under Executive Order 
13132. This AD will not have a substantial direct effect on the States, 
on the relationship between the national government and the States, or 
on the distribution of power and responsibilities among the various 
levels of government.
    For the reasons discussed above, I certify 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, 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.

Adoption of the Amendment

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

[[Page 24555]]

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):

2014-09-02 M7 Aerospace LLC: Amendment 39-17837; Docket No. FAA-
2014-0023; Directorate Identifier 2013-CE-048-AD.

(a) Effective Date

    This AD is effective June 5, 2014.

(b) Affected ADs

    None.

(c) Applicability

    This AD applies to M7 Aerospace LLC Models SA226-AT, SA226-T, 
SA226-T(B), SA226-TC, SA227-AC (C-26A), SA227-AT, SA227-TT, SA227-BC 
(C-26A), SA227-CC, and SA227-DC (C-26B) airplanes, all serial 
numbers; Model SA26-T airplanes, serial numbers T26-2 through T26-
99; and Model SA26-AT airplanes, serial numbers AT26-100 through 
AT26-180E, certificated in any category.

(d) Subject

    Joint Aircraft System Component (JASC)/Air Transport Association 
(ATA) of America Code: 27, Flight Controls.

(e) Unsafe Condition

    This AD was prompted by reports of jamming of the aileron 
control cable chain in the pilot and copilot control columns. We are 
issuing the AD to prevent jamming of the aileron control cable 
chain, which could result in loss of control.

(f) Compliance

    Comply with this AD by doing the actions specified in paragraph 
(g) through paragraph (h) of this AD, including all subparagraphs, 
unless already done.

(g) Initially Replace and Lubricate the Aileron Control Cable Chain, 
Sprocket, and Bearings

    Initially replace and lubricate the aileron control cable chain, 
sprocket, and bearings, and check the aileron control cable tension 
based on the conditions and compliance times in paragraphs (g)(1), 
(g)(2), and (g)(3) of this AD, including all subparagraphs. The 
corrosion preventative must be removed from the chain (but not the 
cable) and the required actions must be done following the 
Accomplishment Instructions in M7 Aerospace LLC SA26 Series Service 
Bulletin 26-27-001 R3, dated April 8, 2014; M7 Aerospace LLC SA226 
Series Service Bulletin 226-27-074 R2, dated October 23, 2013; M7 
Aerospace LLC SA227 Series Service Bulletin 227-27-054 R2, dated 
October 23, 2013; and M7 Aerospace LLC SA227 Series Commuter 
Category Service Bulletin CC7-27-026 R2, dated October 23, 2013, as 
applicable. Criteria for the term ``properly lubricated'' is 
included in paragraphs 5a, 5b, and 5c of the Accomplishment 
Instructions section of M7 Aerospace LLC SA26 Series Service 
Bulletin 26-27-001 R3, dated April 8, 2014, and paragraphs 6a, 6b, 
and 6c of the Accomplishment Instructions section of M7 Aerospace 
LLC SA226 Series Service Bulletin 226-27-074 R2, dated October 23, 
2013; M7 Aerospace LLC SA227 Series Service Bulletin 227-27-054 R2, 
dated October 23, 2013; and M7 Aerospace LLC SA227 Series Commuter 
Category Service Bulletin CC7-27-026 R2, dated October 23, 2013.
    (1) A review of the airplane records positively indicates that 
the aileron control cable chain in the pilot's and the copilot's 
control columns have been replaced and properly lubricated: At 
whichever of the compliance times specified in paragraphs (g)(1)(i) 
or (g)(1)(ii) of this AD that occurs later.
    (i) On or before reaching 10,000 hours time-in-service (TIS) 
from the time of the last aileron control cable chain replacement or 
within 13 years from the date of the last aileron control cable 
chain replacement, whichever occurs first.
    (ii) Within the next 24 months from June 5, 2014 (the effective 
date of this AD).
    (2) A review of the airplane records positively indicates that 
the aileron control cable chain in the pilot's and the copilot's 
control columns have been replaced within the last 10,000 hours TIS, 
but proper lubrication cannot be verified: At whichever of the 
compliance times specified in paragraphs (g)(2)(i) or (g)(2)(ii) of 
this AD that occurs first.
    (i) On or before reaching 10,000 hours TIS since the last 
replacement or within the next 1,000 hours TIS after June 5, 2014 
(the effective date of this AD), whichever occurs later.
    (ii) Within the next 24 months from June 5, 2014 (the effective 
date of this AD).
    (3) A review of the airplane records does not positively 
indicate that the aileron control cable chain in the pilot's and the 
copilot's control columns have been replaced within the last 10,000 
hours TIS: At the compliance times specified in paragraphs 
(g)(3)(i), (g)(3)(ii), (g)(3)(iii), and (g)(3)(iv) of this AD, as 
applicable.
    (i) For airplanes with less than 10,000 hours TIS: At whichever 
of the compliance times specified in paragraphs (3)(i)(A) or 
(3)(i)(B) of this AD that occurs first:
    (A) On or before reaching 10,000 hours TIS or within the next 
1,000 hours TIS after June 5, 2014 (the effective date of this AD), 
whichever occurs later.
    (B) Within the next 24 months after June 5, 2014 (the effective 
date of this AD).
    (ii) For airplanes with 10,000 hours TIS or more but less than 
20,001 hours TIS: Within the next 1,000 hours TIS after June 5, 2014 
(the effective date of this AD) or within the next 12 calendar 
months after June 5, 2014 (the effective date of this AD), whichever 
occurs first.
    (iii) For airplanes with 20,001 hours TIS or more but less than 
30,001 hours TIS: Within the next 750 hours TIS after June 5, 2014 
(the effective date of this AD) or within the next 6 calendar months 
after June 5, 2014 (the effective date of this AD), whichever occurs 
first.
    (iv) For airplanes with 30,001 hours TIS or more: Within the 
next 400 hours TIS after June 5, 2014 (the effective date of this 
AD) or within the next 3 calendar months after June 5, 2014 (the 
effective date of this AD), whichever occurs first.

(h) Repetitively Replace and Lubricate the Aileron Control Cable Chain, 
Sprocket, and Bearings

    Replace and lubricate the aileron control cable chain, sprocket, 
and bearings, and check the aileron control cable tension 
repetitively thereafter at intervals not to exceed 10,000 hours TIS 
or 13 years after the date of the last aileron control cable chain 
replacement, whichever occurs first. The corrosion preventative must 
be removed from the chain (but not the cable) and the required 
actions must be done following the Accomplishment Instructions in M7 
Aerospace LLC SA26 Series Service Bulletin 26-27-001 R3, dated April 
8, 2014; M7 Aerospace LLC SA226 Series Service Bulletin 226-27-074 
R2, dated October 23, 2013; M7 Aerospace LLC SA227 Series Service 
Bulletin 227-27-054 R2, dated October 23, 2013; and M7 Aerospace LLC 
SA227 Series Commuter Category Service Bulletin CC7-27-026 R2, dated 
October 23, 2013, as applicable.

(i) Credit for Actions Done Following Previous Service Information

    This AD allows credit for the actions required in paragraphs 
(g)(1) through (g)(3) of this AD, including all subparagraphs, if 
done before June 5, 2014 (the effective date of this AD), following 
M7 Aerospace LLC SA26 Series Service Bulletin 26-27-001, dated June 
6, 2013, or Service Bulletin 26-27-001 R1, dated September 30, 2013; 
M7 Aerospace LLC SA226 Series Service Bulletin 226-27-074, dated 
June 6, 2013, or Service Bulletin 226-27-074 R1, dated September 30, 
2013; M7 Aerospace LLC SA227 Series Service Bulletin 227-27-054, 
dated June 6, 2013, or Service Bulletin 227-27-054 R1, dated 
September 30, 2013; and M7 Aerospace LLC SA227 Series Commuter 
Category Service Bulletin CC7-27-026, dated June 6, 2013, or Service 
Bulletin CC7-27-026 R1, dated September 30, 2013, as applicable.

(j) Paperwork Reduction Act Burden Statement

    A federal agency may not conduct or sponsor, and a person is not 
required to respond to, nor shall a person be subject to a penalty 
for failure to comply with a collection of information subject to 
the requirements of the Paperwork Reduction Act unless that 
collection of information displays a current valid OMB Control 
Number. The OMB Control Number for this information collection is 
2120-0056. Public reporting for this collection of information is 
estimated to be approximately 5 minutes per response, including the 
time for reviewing instructions, completing and reviewing the 
collection of information. All responses to this collection of 
information are mandatory. Comments concerning the accuracy of this 
burden and suggestions for reducing the burden should be directed to 
the FAA at: 800 Independence Ave. SW., Washington, DC

[[Page 24556]]

20591, Attn: Information Collection Clearance Officer, AES-200.

(k) Alternative Methods of Compliance (AMOCs)

    (1) The Manager, Fort Worth Airplane Certification Office, FAA, 
has the authority to approve AMOCs for this AD, if requested using 
the procedures found in 14 CFR 39.19. In accordance with 14 CFR 
39.19, send your request to your principal inspector or local Flight 
Standards District Office, as appropriate. If sending information 
directly to the manager of the ACO, send it to the attention of the 
person identified in the Related Information section of this AD.
    (2) Before using any approved AMOC, notify your appropriate 
principal inspector, or lacking a principal inspector, the manager 
of the local flight standards district office/certificate holding 
district office.

(l) Related Information

    For more information about this AD, contact Andrew McAnaul, 
Aerospace Engineer, FAA, ASW-150 (c/o San Antonio MIDO), 10100 
Reunion Place, Suite 650, San Antonio, Texas 78216; phone: (210) 
308-3365; fax: (210) 308-3370; email: andrew.mcanaul@faa.gov.

(m) Material Incorporated by Reference

    (1) The Director of the Federal Register approved the 
incorporation by reference (IBR) of the service information listed 
in this paragraph under 5 U.S.C. 552(a) and 1 CFR part 51.
    (2) You must use this service information as applicable to do 
the actions required by this AD, unless the AD specifies otherwise.
    (i) M7 Aerospace LLC SA26 Series Service Bulletin 26-27-001 R3, 
dated April 8, 2014.
    (ii) M7 Aerospace LLC SA226 Series Service Bulletin 226-27-074 
R2, dated October 23, 2013.
    (iii) M7 Aerospace LLC SA227 Series Service Bulletin 227-27-054 
R2, dated October 23, 2013.
    (iv) M7 Aerospace LLC SA227 Series Commuter Category Service 
Bulletin CC7-27-026 R2, dated October 23, 2013.
    (3) For M7 Aerospace service information identified in this AD, 
contact M7 Aerospace LP, 10823 NE Entrance Road, San Antonio, Texas 
78216; phone: (210) 824-9421; fax: (210) 804-7766; Internet: https://www.elbitsystems-us.com; email: none.
    (4) You may view this service information at FAA, Small Airplane 
Directorate, 901 Locust, Kansas City, Missouri 64106. For 
information on the availability of this material at the FAA, call 
816-329-4148.
    (5) You may view this service information that is incorporated 
by reference at the National Archives and Records Administration 
(NARA). For information on the availability of this material at 
NARA, call 202-741-6030, or go to: https://www.archives.gov/federal-register/cfr/ibr-locations.html.

    Issued in Kansas City, Missouri, on April 18, 2014.
Earl Lawrence,
Manager, Small Airplane Directorate, Aircraft Certification Service.
[FR Doc. 2014-09419 Filed 4-30-14; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE 4910-13-P
This site is protected by reCAPTCHA and the Google Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply.