Airworthiness Directives; Agusta S.p.A Helicopters (Type Certificate Currently Held by AgustaWestland S.p.A.) (Agusta), 41462-41464 [2014-16683]

Download as PDF 41462 Federal Register / Vol. 79, No. 136 / Wednesday, July 16, 2014 / Proposed Rules AMOC-REQUESTS@faa.gov. 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. The AMOC approval letter must specifically reference this AD. (2) Contacting the Manufacturer: For any requirement in this AD to obtain corrective actions from a manufacturer, the action must be accomplished using a method approved by the Manager, International Branch, ANM– 116, Transport Airplane Directorate, FAA; or the European Aviation Safety Agency (EASA); or Airbus’s EASA Design Organization Approval (DOA). If approved by the DOA, the approval must include the DOA-authorized signature. (k) Related Information (1) Refer to Mandatory Continuing Airworthiness Information (MCAI) European Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) Airworthiness Directive 2013–0058, dated March 11, 2013, for related information. This MCAI may be found in the AD docket on the Internet at https://www.regulations.gov by searching for and locating it in Docket No. FAA–2014–0448. (2) For service information identified in this AD, contact Airbus SAS, Airworthiness Office—EAW, 1 Rond Point Maurice Bellonte, 31707 Blagnac Cedex, France; telephone +33 5 61 93 36 96; fax +33 5 61 93 44 51; email account.airworth-eas@ airbus.com; Internet https://www.airbus.com. You may view this service information at the FAA, Transport Airplane Directorate, 1601 Lind Avenue SW., Renton, WA. For information on the availability of this material at the FAA, call 425–227–1221. Issued in Renton, Washington, on July 3, 2014. Dionne Palermo, Acting Manager, Transport Airplane Directorate, Aircraft Certification Service. [FR Doc. 2014–16690 Filed 7–15–14; 8:45 am] BILLING CODE 4910–13–P DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION Federal Aviation Administration 14 CFR Part 39 [Docket No. FAA–2014–0472; Directorate Identifier 2013–SW–040–AD] RIN 2120–AA64 tkelley on DSK3SPTVN1PROD with PROPOSALS Airworthiness Directives; Agusta S.p.A Helicopters (Type Certificate Currently Held by AgustaWestland S.p.A.) (Agusta) Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), DOT. ACTION: Notice of proposed rulemaking (NPRM). AGENCY: We propose to adopt a new airworthiness directive (AD) for certain Agusta Model A109E, A109K2, A119, SUMMARY: VerDate Mar<15>2010 17:37 Jul 15, 2014 Jkt 232001 and AW119 MKII helicopters. This proposed AD was prompted by a report of a crack that was found on a Gleason crown. This proposed AD would require repetitively performing a magnetic particle inspection of the Gleason crown for a crack. We are proposing this AD to detect a crack, which could cause damage to or loss of the main rotor drive and subsequent loss of control of the helicopter. DATES: We must receive comments on this proposed AD by September 2, 2014. ADDRESSES: You may send comments, using the procedures found in 14 CFR 11.43 and 11.45, by any of the following methods: • Federal eRulemaking Portal: Go to https://www.regulations.gov. Follow the instructions for submitting comments. • Fax: 202–493–2251. • Mail: U.S. Department of Transportation, Docket Operations, M– 30, West Building Ground Floor, Room W12–140, 1200 New Jersey Avenue SE., Washington, DC 20590. • Hand Delivery: Deliver to Mail address above between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m., Monday through Friday, except Federal holidays. For service information identified in this proposed AD, contact 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/ technical-bullettins. 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. Examining the AD Docket You may examine the AD docket on the Internet at https:// www.regulations.gov; 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 European Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) AD, the regulatory evaluation, any comments received, and other information. The street address for the Docket Office (phone: 800–647–5527) is in the ADDRESSES section. Comments will be available in the AD docket shortly after receipt. FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Rao Edupuganti, Aviation Safety Engineer, Regulations and Policy Group, Rotorcraft Directorate, FAA, 2601 Meacham Blvd., Fort Worth, Texas 76137; telephone (817) 222–5110; email rao.edupuganti@faa.gov. PO 00000 Frm 00007 Fmt 4702 Sfmt 4702 SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: Comments Invited We invite you to send any written relevant data, views, or arguments about this proposal. Send your comments to an address listed under the ADDRESSES section. Include ‘‘Docket No. FAA– 2014–0472; Directorate Identifier 2013– SW–040–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:// www.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 EASA, which is the Technical Agent for the Member States of the European Union, has issued EASA AD No. 2013– 0118, dated June 3, 2013, to correct an unsafe condition for Agusta Model A109K2, A109E, A119, and AW119MKII helicopters. EASA advises that during an overhaul of an A119 main transmission, part number (P/N) 109– 0400–05–103, a crack on the Gleason crown, P/N 109–0403–07–103, was found. EASA further states that an investigation by Agusta revealed that the crack originated from the bottom of one of the 40 threaded holes in the Gleason crown, and that this partnumbered Gleason crown is also installed on Model A109 helicopters. EASA states that this condition, if not corrected, could cause damage to or loss of the main rotor drive and loss of control of the helicopter. To correct this unsafe condition, EASA AD No. 2013– 0118 requires repetitive magnetic particle inspections of the Gleason crown and, if there is a crack, replacing the Gleason crown with a different partnumbered Gleason crown. EASA AD No. 2013–0118 also prohibits installing a Gleason crown, P/N 109–0403–07– 103, or a Gleason crown assembly, P/N 109–0401–27–101 or P/N 109–0401–27– 109, on any helicopter, as Gleason crown, P/N 109–0403–07–103, is a component of these assemblies. Relevant Service Information We reviewed Agusta Bollettino Tecnico (BT) No. 109EP–128 for Model A109E helicopters, Agusta BT No. 109K–57 for Model A109K2 helicopters, and Agusta BT No. 119–058 for Model E:\FR\FM\16JYP1.SGM 16JYP1 Federal Register / Vol. 79, No. 136 / Wednesday, July 16, 2014 / Proposed Rules A119 and AW119MKII helicopters, each Revision A and dated May 28, 2013. Each BT describes procedures for performing a magnetic particle inspection on the Gleason crown, P/N 109–0403–07–103, for a crack. If there is a crack, each BT specifies replacing the Gleason crown assembly with a Gleason crown assembly, P/N 109–0401–27–107. We also reviewed Agusta BT No. 109EP–126 for Model A109E helicopters, Agusta BT No. 109K–56 for Model A109K2 helicopters, and Agusta BT No. 119–053 for Model A119 and AW119MKII helicopters, each dated December 20, 2012. These BTs contain procedures for upgrading the transmission system by replacing the Gleason crown assembly with a Gleason crown assembly, P/N 109–0401–27–107. FAA’s Determination We are proposing this AD because we evaluated all the relevant information and determined the unsafe condition described previously is likely to exist or develop in other products of these same type designs. Proposed AD Requirements This proposed AD would require, for helicopters with a main transmission, P/N 109–0400–03–109, with 2,400 or more hours time-in-service (TIS), performing a magnetic particle inspection of the Gleason crown, P/N 109–0403–07–103, within 200 hours TIS, and thereafter at intervals not exceeding 1,600 hours TIS. If there is a crack, this proposed AD would require replacing the Gleason crown assembly with a different part-numbered assembly before further flight. The proposed AD would also prohibit installing on any helicopter a Gleason crown, P/N 109–0403–07–103, or a Gleason crown assembly, P/N 109– 0401–27–101 or P/N 109–0401–27–109. tkelley on DSK3SPTVN1PROD with PROPOSALS Differences Between This Proposed AD and the EASA AD This proposed AD requires compliance within 200 hours TIS for main transmissions with 2,400 or more hours. The EASA AD requires different compliance times, depending on the number of flight hours the transmission has accumulated. Costs of Compliance We estimate that this proposed AD affects 218 helicopters of U.S. registry. We estimate the following costs to comply with this proposed AD. At an average labor rate of $85 per hour, magnetic particle inspecting the Gleason crown would require about 24 workhours, for an estimated cost per helicopter of $2,040, and a total cost of VerDate Mar<15>2010 17:37 Jul 15, 2014 Jkt 232001 $444,720 for the U.S. fleet, per inspection cycle. If required, replacing the Gleason crown assembly would require about 24 work-hours, and required parts would cost $29,000, for a cost per helicopter of $31,040. According to the manufacturer, some of the costs of this proposed AD may be covered under warranty, thereby reducing the cost impact on affected individuals. We do not control warranty coverage for affected individuals. As a result, we have included all costs in our cost estimate. List of Subjects in 14 CFR Part 39 Air transportation, Aircraft, Aviation safety, Incorporation by reference, Safety. The Proposed Amendment Accordingly, under the authority delegated to me by the Administrator, the FAA proposes to amend 14 CFR part 39 as follows: PART 39—AIRWORTHINESS DIRECTIVES 1. The authority citation for part 39 continues to read as follows: ■ Authority 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. PO 00000 Frm 00008 Fmt 4702 Sfmt 4702 41463 Authority: 49 U.S.C. 106(g), 40113, 44701. § 39.13 [Amended] 2. Amend § 39.13 by adding the following new airworthiness directive (AD): ■ Agusta S.p.A Helicopters (Type Certificate Currently Held By AgustaWestland S.p.A.) (Agusta): Docket No. FAA–2014– 0472; Directorate Identifier 2013–SW– 040–AD. (a) Comments Due Date We must receive comments by September 2, 2014. (b) Applicability This AD applies to Agusta Model A109E, A109K2, A119, and AW119 MKII helicopters with a main transmission part number (P/N) 109–0400–03–103, 109–0400–05–103, and 109–0400–03–109, with a Gleason crown P/N 109–0403–07–103 installed, certificated in any category. (c) Unsafe Condition This AD defines the unsafe condition as a crack in a Gleason crown. This condition could cause damage to or loss of the main rotor drive and subsequent loss of control of the helicopter. (d) Compliance Comply with this AD within the compliance times specified, unless already done. (e) Required Actions (1) For main transmissions with 2,400 or more hours time-in-service (TIS), within 200 hours TIS and thereafter at intervals not exceeding 1,600 hours TIS, magnetic particle inspect the Gleason crown, P/N 109–0403– 07–103, for a crack by following the procedures in: (i) Annex 1 of Agusta Bollettino Tecnico (BT) No. 109EP–128, Revision A, dated May 28, 2013, for Model A109E helicopters; (ii) Annex 1 of Agusta BT No. 109K–57, Revision A, dated May 28, 2013, for Model A109K2 helicopters; or (iii) Annex 1 of Agusta BT No. 119–058, Revision A, dated May 28, 2013, for Model A119 and AW119MKII helicopters. (2) If there is a crack, before further flight, replace the Gleason crown assembly with a Gleason Crown assembly, P/N 109–0401–27– 107. Replacing the Gleason crown assembly E:\FR\FM\16JYP1.SGM 16JYP1 41464 Federal Register / Vol. 79, No. 136 / Wednesday, July 16, 2014 / Proposed Rules with P/N 109–0401–27–107 is terminating action for the inspection requirements of this AD. (3) After the effective date of this AD, do not install a Gleason crown, P/N 109–0403– 07–103, or a Gleason crown assembly, P/N 109–0401–27–101 or P/N 109–0401–27–109, on any helicopter. (1) The Manager, Safety Management Group, 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 paragraph (g) 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. (g) Related Information (1) For more information about this AD, contact Rao Edupuganti, Aviation Safety Engineer, Regulations and Policy Group, Rotorcraft Directorate, FAA, 2601 Meacham Blvd., Fort Worth, Texas 76137; telephone (817) 222–5110; email rao.edupuganti@ faa.gov. (2) For service information identified in this proposed 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/technicalbullettins. 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. (3) The subject of this AD is addressed in European Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) AD No. 2013–0118, dated June 3, 2013. You may view the EASA AD on the Internet at https:// www.regulations.gov in Docket No. FAA– 2014–0472. (h) Subject tkelley on DSK3SPTVN1PROD with PROPOSALS Joint Aircraft System Component Code: 6320: Main Rotor Gearbox. Issued in Fort Worth, Texas, on July 9, 2014. Kim Smith, Directorate Manager, Rotorcraft Directorate, Aircraft Certification Service. BILLING CODE 4910–13–P VerDate Mar<15>2010 17:37 Jul 15, 2014 Jkt 232001 Federal Aviation Administration 14 CFR Part 39 [Docket No. FAA–2014–0465; Directorate Identifier 2013–SW–044–AD] RIN 2120–AA64 (f) Alternative Methods of Compliance (AMOCs) [FR Doc. 2014–16683 Filed 7–15–14; 8:45 am] DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION Airworthiness Directives; Agusta S.p.A. Helicopters (Type Certificate Currently Held by AgustaWestland S.p.A.) (Agusta) Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), DOT. ACTION: Notice of proposed rulemaking (NPRM). AGENCY: We propose to adopt a new airworthiness directive (AD) for Agusta AB139 and AW139 helicopters to require replacing certain single-braided flexible hydraulic hoses with doublebraided flexible hydraulic hoses. This proposed AD is prompted by occurrences of leaking flexible hydraulic hoses. The proposed actions are intended to prevent loss of hydraulic power and subsequent loss of helicopter control. DATES: We must receive comments on this proposed AD by September 15, 2014. SUMMARY: 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. ADDRESSES: 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 European Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) 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 PO 00000 Frm 00009 Fmt 4702 Sfmt 4702 service information identified in this proposed AD, contact Agusta Westland, Customer Support & Services, Via Per Tornavento 15, 21019 Somma Lombardo (VA) Italy, ATTN: Giovanni Cecchelli; telephone 39- 0331–711133; fax 39 0331 711180; or at https:// www.agustawestland.com/technicalbullettins. 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. Matt Wilbanks, Aviation Safety Engineer, Regulations and Policy Group, Rotorcraft Directorate, FAA, 2601 Meacham Blvd., Fort Worth, Texas 76137; telephone (817) 222–5110; email matt.wilbanks@faa.gov. SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Comments Invited We invite you to participate in this rulemaking by submitting written comments, data, or views. We also invite comments relating to the economic, environmental, energy, or federalism impacts that might result from adopting the proposals in this document. The most helpful comments reference a specific portion of the proposal, explain the reason for any recommended change, and include supporting data. To ensure the docket does not contain duplicate comments, commenters should send only one copy of written comments, or if comments are filed electronically, commenters should submit only one time. We will file in the docket all comments that we receive, as well as a report summarizing each substantive public contact with FAA personnel concerning this proposed rulemaking. Before acting on this proposal, we will consider all comments we receive on or before the closing date for comments. We will consider comments filed after the comment period has closed if it is possible to do so without incurring expense or delay. We may change this proposal in light of the comments we receive. Discussion EASA, which is the Technical Agent for the Member States of the European Union, has issued EASA AD No. 2013– 0177, dated August 8, 2013, to correct an unsafe condition for Agusta Model AB139 and AW139 helicopters. EASA advises that leaking hydraulic system flexible hoses have been reported on inservice helicopters. An investigation indicated that single braided flexible hydraulic hoses, which are part of the E:\FR\FM\16JYP1.SGM 16JYP1

Agencies

[Federal Register Volume 79, Number 136 (Wednesday, July 16, 2014)]
[Proposed Rules]
[Pages 41462-41464]
From the Federal Register Online via the Government Printing Office [www.gpo.gov]
[FR Doc No: 2014-16683]


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

DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION

Federal Aviation Administration

14 CFR Part 39

[Docket No. FAA-2014-0472; Directorate Identifier 2013-SW-040-AD]
RIN 2120-AA64


Airworthiness Directives; Agusta S.p.A Helicopters (Type 
Certificate Currently Held by AgustaWestland S.p.A.) (Agusta)

AGENCY: Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), DOT.

ACTION: Notice of proposed rulemaking (NPRM).

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

SUMMARY: We propose to adopt a new airworthiness directive (AD) for 
certain Agusta Model A109E, A109K2, A119, and AW119 MKII helicopters. 
This proposed AD was prompted by a report of a crack that was found on 
a Gleason crown. This proposed AD would require repetitively performing 
a magnetic particle inspection of the Gleason crown for a crack. We are 
proposing this AD to detect a crack, which could cause damage to or 
loss of the main rotor drive and subsequent loss of control of the 
helicopter.

DATES: We must receive comments on this proposed AD by September 2, 
2014.

ADDRESSES: You may send comments, using the procedures found in 14 CFR 
11.43 and 11.45, by any of the following methods:
     Federal eRulemaking Portal: Go to https://www.regulations.gov. Follow the instructions for submitting comments.
     Fax: 202-493-2251.
     Mail: U.S. Department of Transportation, Docket 
Operations, M-30, West Building Ground Floor, Room W12-140, 1200 New 
Jersey Avenue SE., Washington, DC 20590.
     Hand Delivery: Deliver to Mail address above between 9 
a.m. and 5 p.m., Monday through Friday, except Federal holidays.
    For service information identified in this proposed AD, contact 
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/technical-bullettins. 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.

Examining the AD Docket

    You may examine the AD docket on the Internet at https://www.regulations.gov; 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 European 
Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) AD, the regulatory evaluation, any 
comments received, and other information. The street address for the 
Docket Office (phone: 800-647-5527) is in the ADDRESSES section. 
Comments will be available in the AD docket shortly after receipt.

FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Rao Edupuganti, Aviation Safety 
Engineer, Regulations and Policy Group, Rotorcraft Directorate, FAA, 
2601 Meacham Blvd., Fort Worth, Texas 76137; telephone (817) 222-5110; 
email rao.edupuganti@faa.gov.

SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: 

Comments Invited

    We invite you to send any written relevant data, views, or 
arguments about this proposal. Send your comments to an address listed 
under the ADDRESSES section. Include ``Docket No. FAA-2014-0472; 
Directorate Identifier 2013-SW-040-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://www.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

    EASA, which is the Technical Agent for the Member States of the 
European Union, has issued EASA AD No. 2013-0118, dated June 3, 2013, 
to correct an unsafe condition for Agusta Model A109K2, A109E, A119, 
and AW119MKII helicopters. EASA advises that during an overhaul of an 
A119 main transmission, part number (P/N) 109-0400-05-103, a crack on 
the Gleason crown, P/N 109-0403-07-103, was found. EASA further states 
that an investigation by Agusta revealed that the crack originated from 
the bottom of one of the 40 threaded holes in the Gleason crown, and 
that this part-numbered Gleason crown is also installed on Model A109 
helicopters. EASA states that this condition, if not corrected, could 
cause damage to or loss of the main rotor drive and loss of control of 
the helicopter. To correct this unsafe condition, EASA AD No. 2013-0118 
requires repetitive magnetic particle inspections of the Gleason crown 
and, if there is a crack, replacing the Gleason crown with a different 
part-numbered Gleason crown. EASA AD No. 2013-0118 also prohibits 
installing a Gleason crown, P/N 109-0403-07-103, or a Gleason crown 
assembly, P/N 109-0401-27-101 or P/N 109-0401-27-109, on any 
helicopter, as Gleason crown, P/N 109-0403-07-103, is a component of 
these assemblies.

Relevant Service Information

    We reviewed Agusta Bollettino Tecnico (BT) No. 109EP-128 for Model 
A109E helicopters, Agusta BT No. 109K-57 for Model A109K2 helicopters, 
and Agusta BT No. 119-058 for Model

[[Page 41463]]

A119 and AW119MKII helicopters, each Revision A and dated May 28, 2013. 
Each BT describes procedures for performing a magnetic particle 
inspection on the Gleason crown, P/N 109-0403-07-103, for a crack. If 
there is a crack, each BT specifies replacing the Gleason crown 
assembly with a Gleason crown assembly, P/N 109-0401-27-107.
    We also reviewed Agusta BT No. 109EP-126 for Model A109E 
helicopters, Agusta BT No. 109K-56 for Model A109K2 helicopters, and 
Agusta BT No. 119-053 for Model A119 and AW119MKII helicopters, each 
dated December 20, 2012. These BTs contain procedures for upgrading the 
transmission system by replacing the Gleason crown assembly with a 
Gleason crown assembly, P/N 109-0401-27-107.

FAA's Determination

    We are proposing this AD because we evaluated all the relevant 
information and determined the unsafe condition described previously is 
likely to exist or develop in other products of these same type 
designs.

Proposed AD Requirements

    This proposed AD would require, for helicopters with a main 
transmission, P/N 109-0400-03-109, with 2,400 or more hours time-in-
service (TIS), performing a magnetic particle inspection of the Gleason 
crown, P/N 109-0403-07-103, within 200 hours TIS, and thereafter at 
intervals not exceeding 1,600 hours TIS. If there is a crack, this 
proposed AD would require replacing the Gleason crown assembly with a 
different part-numbered assembly before further flight. The proposed AD 
would also prohibit installing on any helicopter a Gleason crown, P/N 
109-0403-07-103, or a Gleason crown assembly, P/N 109-0401-27-101 or P/
N 109-0401-27-109.

Differences Between This Proposed AD and the EASA AD

    This proposed AD requires compliance within 200 hours TIS for main 
transmissions with 2,400 or more hours. The EASA AD requires different 
compliance times, depending on the number of flight hours the 
transmission has accumulated.

Costs of Compliance

    We estimate that this proposed AD affects 218 helicopters of U.S. 
registry. We estimate the following costs to comply with this proposed 
AD. At an average labor rate of $85 per hour, magnetic particle 
inspecting the Gleason crown would require about 24 work-hours, for an 
estimated cost per helicopter of $2,040, and a total cost of $444,720 
for the U.S. fleet, per inspection cycle.
    If required, replacing the Gleason crown assembly would require 
about 24 work-hours, and required parts would cost $29,000, for a cost 
per helicopter of $31,040.
    According to the manufacturer, some of the costs of this proposed 
AD may be covered under warranty, thereby reducing the cost impact on 
affected individuals. We do not control warranty coverage for affected 
individuals. As a result, we have included all costs in our cost 
estimate.

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. Amend Sec.  39.13 by adding the following new airworthiness 
directive (AD):

Agusta S.p.A Helicopters (Type Certificate Currently Held By 
AgustaWestland S.p.A.) (Agusta): Docket No. FAA-2014-0472; 
Directorate Identifier 2013-SW-040-AD.

(a) Comments Due Date

    We must receive comments by September 2, 2014.

(b) Applicability

    This AD applies to Agusta Model A109E, A109K2, A119, and AW119 
MKII helicopters with a main transmission part number (P/N) 109-
0400-03-103, 109-0400-05-103, and 109-0400-03-109, with a Gleason 
crown P/N 109-0403-07-103 installed, certificated in any category.

(c) Unsafe Condition

    This AD defines the unsafe condition as a crack in a Gleason 
crown. This condition could cause damage to or loss of the main 
rotor drive and subsequent loss of control of the helicopter.

(d) Compliance

    Comply with this AD within the compliance times specified, 
unless already done.

(e) Required Actions

    (1) For main transmissions with 2,400 or more hours time-in-
service (TIS), within 200 hours TIS and thereafter at intervals not 
exceeding 1,600 hours TIS, magnetic particle inspect the Gleason 
crown, P/N 109-0403-07-103, for a crack by following the procedures 
in:
    (i) Annex 1 of Agusta Bollettino Tecnico (BT) No. 109EP-128, 
Revision A, dated May 28, 2013, for Model A109E helicopters;
    (ii) Annex 1 of Agusta BT No. 109K-57, Revision A, dated May 28, 
2013, for Model A109K2 helicopters; or
    (iii) Annex 1 of Agusta BT No. 119-058, Revision A, dated May 
28, 2013, for Model A119 and AW119MKII helicopters.
    (2) If there is a crack, before further flight, replace the 
Gleason crown assembly with a Gleason Crown assembly, P/N 109-0401-
27-107. Replacing the Gleason crown assembly

[[Page 41464]]

with P/N 109-0401-27-107 is terminating action for the inspection 
requirements of this AD.
    (3) After the effective date of this AD, do not install a 
Gleason crown, P/N 109-0403-07-103, or a Gleason crown assembly, P/N 
109-0401-27-101 or P/N 109-0401-27-109, on any helicopter.

(f) Alternative Methods of Compliance (AMOCs)

    (1) The Manager, Safety Management Group, 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 paragraph (g) 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.

(g) Related Information

    (1) For more information about this AD, contact Rao Edupuganti, 
Aviation Safety Engineer, Regulations and Policy Group, Rotorcraft 
Directorate, FAA, 2601 Meacham Blvd., Fort Worth, Texas 76137; 
telephone (817) 222-5110; email rao.edupuganti@faa.gov.
    (2) For service information identified in this proposed 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/technical-bullettins. 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.
    (3) The subject of this AD is addressed in European Aviation 
Safety Agency (EASA) AD No. 2013-0118, dated June 3, 2013. You may 
view the EASA AD on the Internet at https://www.regulations.gov in 
Docket No. FAA-2014-0472.

(h) Subject

    Joint Aircraft System Component Code: 6320: Main Rotor Gearbox.

    Issued in Fort Worth, Texas, on July 9, 2014.
Kim Smith,
Directorate Manager, Rotorcraft Directorate, Aircraft Certification 
Service.
[FR Doc. 2014-16683 Filed 7-15-14; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE 4910-13-P
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