Airworthiness Directives; Sikorsky Aircraft Corporation Helicopters, 45085-45088 [2014-17923]

Download as PDF 45085 Rules and Regulations Federal Register Vol. 79, No. 149 Monday, August 4, 2014 This section of the FEDERAL REGISTER contains regulatory documents having general applicability and legal effect, most of which are keyed to and codified in the Code of Federal Regulations, which is published under 50 titles pursuant to 44 U.S.C. 1510. information at the FAA, Office of the Regional Counsel, Southwest Region, 2601 Meacham Blvd., Room 663, Fort Worth, Texas 76137. The Code of Federal Regulations is sold by the Superintendent of Documents. Prices of new books are listed in the first FEDERAL REGISTER issue of each week. You may examine the AD docket on the Internet at https:// www.regulations.gov or in person at the Docket Operations Office between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m., Monday through Friday, except Federal holidays. The AD docket contains this AD, the economic evaluation, any comments received, and other information. The street address for the Docket Operations Office (phone: 800–647–5527) is U.S. Department of Transportation, Docket Operations Office, M–30, West Building Ground Floor, Room W12–140, 1200 New Jersey Avenue SE., Washington, DC 20590. FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: John Coffey, Flight Test Engineer, Boston Aircraft Certification Office, 12 New England Executive Park, Burlington, MA 01803; telephone (781) 238–7173; email: john.coffey@faa.gov. SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION Federal Aviation Administration 14 CFR Part 39 [Docket No. FAA–2009–1088; Directorate Identifier 2008–SW–76–AD; Amendment 39– 17872; AD 2014–12–11] RIN 2120–AA64 Airworthiness Directives; Sikorsky Aircraft Corporation Helicopters Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), DOT. ACTION: Final rule. AGENCY: We are adopting a new airworthiness directive (AD) for the Sikorsky Aircraft Corporation (Sikorsky) Model S–92A helicopter. This AD requires revising the Rotorcraft Flight Manual (RFM) to include the appropriate operating limitations for performing Class D external loadcombination operations. This AD was prompted by an inaccurate RFM provision, which was approved without appropriate limitations for this model helicopter for carrying Class D external rotorcraft-load combinations, including human external cargo (HEC). The actions are intended to require appropriate operating limitations to allow operators to perform Class D external load-combination operations, including HEC, in this model helicopter that now meets the Category A performance standard. DATES: This AD is effective September 8, 2014. ADDRESSES: For service information identified in this AD, contact Sikorsky Aircraft Corporation, Attn: Manager, Commercial Technical Support, mailstop S581A, 6900 Main Street, Stratford, CT, telephone (203) 383–4866, email address tsslibrary@sikorsky.com, or at https://www.sikorsky.com. You may review a copy of the referenced service mstockstill on DSK4VPTVN1PROD with NOTICES SUMMARY: VerDate Mar<15>2010 16:31 Aug 01, 2014 Jkt 232001 Examining the AD Docket Discussion On December 10, 2009, at 74 FR 65496, the Federal Register published our notice of proposed rulemaking (NPRM), which proposed to amend 14 CFR part 39 by adding an AD that would apply to Sikorsky Model S–92A helicopters. The NPRM proposed to require revising the RFM SA S92A– RFM–003, Part 1, Section 1, Operating Limitations, Types of Operation, by removing the statement ‘‘RESCUE HOIST: Category ‘A’ only External load operations with Class ‘D’ external loads.’’ The NPRM proposed replacing that statement with ‘‘HOIST: Class D external loads PROHIBITED.’’ Also, the NPRM proposed replacing the words ‘‘RESCUE HOIST’’ in the RFM with ‘‘HOIST’’. The NPRM was prompted by a mistake in the RFM, which allowed ‘‘Class D’’ rotorcraft load combinations for HEC operations for this model helicopter. The Model S–92A RFM did not include the required one-engine inoperative hover performance and procedures. On September 13, 2012, at 77 FR 56581, the Federal Register published our supplemental notice of proposed rulemaking (SNPRM), which proposed to revise the actions of the NPRM. The SNPRM proposed to allow Class D PO 00000 Frm 00001 Fmt 4700 Sfmt 4700 external load operations if the appropriate operating limitations are included in the RFM, instead of prohibiting rotorcraft load combinations for HEC operations. The proposed requirements were intended to require appropriate operating limitations to allow operators to perform Class D external load-combination operations, including HEC, in this model helicopter that now meets the Category A performance standard. Comments After our SNPRM (77 FR 56581, September 13, 2012) was published, we received comments from one commenter. Request Sikorsky generally concurs with the corrective action but requests that Paragraph (d)(3)(i) of the SNPRM (77 FR 56581, September 13, 2012), which requires removing a note from the RFM, be deleted from the AD. Sikorsky commented that removing the note is not appropriate with respect to applying the 150 pound penalty for the hoist. Sikorsky states that the 150 pound penalty applies to the drag of the hoist being installed on the aircraft and, if one would first determine the maximum gross weight by the chart and then apply the penalty, they would always be limited to 150 pounds below the maximum gross weight of the helicopter. Sikorsky states the note is required so pilots do not erroneously apply a 150 pound penalty to their weight when they are maximum gross weight limited instead of performance limited. As the note only applies when the aircraft is performance limited, Sikorsky requests that it not be removed. We agree that the correct instructions need to be inserted in the Required Actions section, but disagree with Sikorsky’s request. Not removing the note would result in keeping the incorrect instructions from the original Limitations section. But we are including a requirement to add the following note to the Weight Limits section of the RFM to address Sikorsky’s comments and to provide accurate instructions: ‘‘NOTE: If conditions permit, the pilot may go to the right of the 26,500 pound line on Figure 1–2 to determine the maximum gross weight and then subtract a 150 pound hoist decrement. The maximum gross weight E:\FR\FM\04AUR1.SGM 04AUR1 45086 Federal Register / Vol. 79, No. 149 / Monday, August 4, 2014 / Rules and Regulations for category ‘A’ operations cannot exceed 26,500 pounds (12,020) kilograms.’’ FAA’s Determination We have reviewed the relevant information, considered the comment received, and determined that an unsafe condition exists and is likely to exist or develop on other products of these same type designs and that air safety and the public interest require adopting the AD requirements as proposed with the changes described previously. We also changed the formatting of this AD to meet current publication requirements. These changes are consistent with the intent of the proposals in the SNPRM (77 FR 56581, September 13, 2012), and will not increase the economic burden on any operator nor increase the scope of the AD. Costs of Compliance We estimate that this AD affects 65 helicopters in the U.S. registry. The costs for inserting a correction to the RFM are expected to be minimal. mstockstill on DSK4VPTVN1PROD with NOTICES 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: VerDate Mar<15>2010 16:31 Aug 01, 2014 Jkt 232001 (1) Is not a ‘‘significant regulatory action’’ under Executive Order 12866; (2) Is not a ‘‘significant rule’’ under DOT Regulatory Policies and Procedures (44 FR 11034, February 26, 1979); (3) Will not affect intrastate aviation in Alaska to the extent that it justifies making a regulatory distinction; and (4) Will not have a significant economic impact, positive or negative, on a substantial number of small entities under the criteria of the Regulatory Flexibility Act. We prepared an economic evaluation of the estimated costs to comply with this AD and placed it in the AD docket. List of Subjects in 14 CFR Part 39 Air transportation, Aircraft, Aviation safety, Incorporation by reference, Safety. Adoption of the Amendment Accordingly, under the authority delegated to me by the Administrator, the FAA amends 14 CFR part 39 as follows: 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): ■ 2014–12–11 Sikorsky Aircraft Corporation: Amendment 39–17872; Docket No. FAA–2009–1088; Directorate Identifier 2008–SW–76–AD. (a) Applicability This AD applies to Sikorsky Aircraft Corporation Model S–92A helicopters, certificated in any category. (b) Unsafe Condition This AD defines the unsafe condition as an inaccurate Rotorcraft Flight Manual (RFM) provision, which was approved without appropriate limitations for this model helicopter for carrying Class D external rotorcraft-load combinations, including Human External Cargo (HEC), when this model helicopter was not certificated to Category A one-engine inoperative (OEI) performance standards, including fly away capabilities after an engine failure, which is required for carrying HEC. (c) Effective Date This AD becomes effective September 8, 2014. (d) Compliance You are responsible for performing each action required by this AD within the PO 00000 Frm 00002 Fmt 4700 Sfmt 4700 specified compliance time unless it has already been accomplished prior to that time. (e) Required Actions Within 90 days, revise the Operating Limitations section of Sikorsky Rotorcraft Flight Manual (RFM) SA S92A–RFM–003, Part 1, Section I, by inserting a copy of this AD into the RFM or by making pen and ink changes, as follows: (1) In the ‘‘Types of Operation’’ section, beneath Hoist, add the following: The hoist equipment certification installation approval does not constitute approval to conduct hoist operations. Operational approval for hoist operations must be granted by the Federal Aviation Administration. No cabin seats may be installed in front of station 317 when conducting Human External Cargo hoist operations, which requires Category A performance capabilities. (2) In the ‘‘Flight Limits’’ section, add the following: ‘‘HOIST’’ When conducting Human External Cargo operations, which require category ‘A’ performance capabilities, the minimum hover height is 20 feet AGL and the maximum hover height is 80 feet AGL. ‘‘HOIST’’ The collective axis must remain uncoupled when conducting Human External Cargo, which requires category ‘A’ performance capabilities, for the period of time that the person is off the ground or water and not in the aircraft. This can be accomplished by either uncoupling the collective axis or by the pilot depressing the collective trim switch during the pertinent portion of the maneuver. (3) In the ‘‘Weight Limits’’ section: (i) Remove the following: NOTE: The 150 pound hoist decrement does not preclude Cat A operations at a gross weight of 26,500 pounds with a hoist installed. If conditions permit, the pilot may go to the right of the 26,500 line on Figure 1–2 to determine a maximum gross weight up to 26,650 and then subtract 150 pounds. (ii) Add the following: NOTE: If conditions permit, the pilot may go to the right of the 26,500 pound line on Figure 1–2 to determine the maximum gross weight and then subtract a 150 pound hoist decrement. The maximum gross weight for category ‘A’ operations cannot exceed 26,500 pounds (12,020 kilograms). (iii) Add the following and insert Figure 1 to Paragraph (e)(3)(iii) of this AD: ‘‘HOIST’’ Maximum gross weight for Human External Cargo, which requires category ‘A’ performance capabilities, is limited to the gross weight determined in accordance with the following Figure 1 to Paragraph (e)(3)(iii) of this AD for your altitude and temperature with the air-conditioner, anti-ice, and bleed air turned off. Note 1 to paragraph (e)(3)(iii) of this AD: Figure 1 to Paragraph (e)(3)(iii) of this AD becomes Figure 1–2A when inserted in the ‘‘Weight Limits’’ section of your RFM. BILLING CODE 4910–13–P E:\FR\FM\04AUR1.SGM 04AUR1 Federal Register / Vol. 79, No. 149 / Monday, August 4, 2014 / Rules and Regulations 45087 Part 1, Section I OPERATING UMITATIONS S-I2A MAXIMUM GROSS WEIGHT FOR HOISnNG HUMAN EXTERNAL C.ARGO REQUIRING CATEGORY A ONE ENGDEINOPERA11V& 01130 SECOND POWER AIR-OONDI1'IONER OFF AND-ICE OFF BLElEO AIR OFF GROSS WEIGHT .. 1000 LB ROTE t :lHISCHARTDEPICTS THE GROSS WBGHT, PRE~ ALTilUIJIE, TEMPERATURE COIIBIIAliOIIIIMIEIE OB HOGE CAPADUTY EliiSTS USIIIG36 SECOIID OBPO'II!IIR Willi A GO SliP MARGIIL Figur&1-2A- Maximum Gross weight for HEC Requiring cat 'A" Figure 1 to Paragraph (e)(3)(iii) VerDate Mar<15>2010 16:31 Aug 01, 2014 Jkt 232001 PO 00000 Frm 00003 Fmt 4700 Sfmt 4725 E:\FR\FM\04AUR1.SGM 04AUR1 ER04AU14.007</GPH> mstockstill on DSK4VPTVN1PROD with NOTICES IIOTE2: 15FT OF GROinBJCLEARAIICE lSASSUREDIIITHE EVEIIT OF All EIIIGliiEFAILUREAT26 T080 FT AGL 45088 Federal Register / Vol. 79, No. 149 / Monday, August 4, 2014 / Rules and Regulations (f) Credit for Actions Previously Completed Incorporation of the changes contained in Sikorsky RFM SA S92A–RFM–003, Part 1, Revision No. 12, approved March 21, 2005, before the effective date of this AD is considered acceptable for compliance with the corresponding actions specified in paragraph (e) of this AD. (g) Alternative Methods of Compliance (AMOCs) (1) The Manager, Boston Aircraft Certification Office, FAA, may approve AMOCs for this AD. Send your proposal to: John Coffey, Flight Test Engineer, Boston Aircraft Certification Office, 12 New England Executive Park, Burlington, MA 01803; telephone (781) 238–7173, fax (781) 238– 7170; email john.coffey@faa.gov. (2) For operations conducted under a 14 CFR part 119 operating certificate or under 14 CFR part 91, subpart K, we suggest that you notify your principal inspector, or lacking a principal inspector, the manager of the local flight standards district office or certificate holding district office before operating any aircraft complying with this AD through an AMOC. (h) Additional Information For service information identified in this AD, contact Sikorsky Aircraft Corporation, Attn: Manager, Commercial Technical Support, mailstop S581A, 6900 Main Street, Stratford, CT, telephone (203) 383–4866, email address tsslibrary@sikorsky.com, or https://www.sikorsky.com. You may review a copy of this information at the FAA, Office of the Regional Counsel, Southwest Region, 2601 Meacham Blvd., Room 663, Fort Worth, Texas 76137. (i) Subject Joint Aircraft Service Component (JASC) Code: 2510 Flight Compartment Equipment. Issued in Fort Worth, Texas, on July 22, 2014. S. Frances Cox, Acting Directorate Manager, Rotorcraft Directorate, Aircraft Certification Service. [FR Doc. 2014–17923 Filed 8–1–14; 8:45 am] DEPARTMENT OF COMMERCE Bureau of Industry and Security 15 CFR Part 774 [Docket No. 140711578–4578–01] mstockstill on DSK4VPTVN1PROD with NOTICES RIN 0694—AG23 Technical Amendments to the Export Administration Regulations: Update of Export Control Classification Number 0Y521 Series Supplement—Biosensor Systems and Related Software and Technology Bureau of Industry and Security, Commerce. VerDate Mar<15>2010 16:31 Aug 01, 2014 Jkt 232001 In this rule, the Bureau of Industry and Security (BIS) amends the Export Administration Regulations (EAR) by removing certain entries from the supplement that identifies those items subject to the EAR that are not listed elsewhere in the Commerce Control List (CCL), but which the Department of Commerce, with the concurrence of the Departments of Defense and State, has determined should be controlled for export for foreign policy reasons or because the items provide a significant military or intelligence advantage to the United States. Within one calendar year from the date that such items are listed in the supplement, BIS must publish a rule reclassifying the items under an entry on the CCL. Otherwise, such items automatically become designated as EAR99 items, unless BIS publishes a rule amending the supplement to extend the period in which the items will be listed therein. In accordance with this requirement, this rule removes references to biosensor systems and related ‘‘software’’ and ‘‘technology’’ from the supplement, because these items automatically became designated as EAR99 items on March 28, 2014, and the references to them in the supplement are now obsolete. DATES: This rule is effective August 4, 2014. FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Scott Hubinger, Senior Chemist and General Engineer, Chemical and Biological Controls Division, Office of Nonproliferation and Treaty Compliance by phone 202–482–5223 or by email at scott.hubinger@bis.doc.gov. SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: SUMMARY: Background BILLING CODE 4910–13–C AGENCY: Final rule; technical amendment. ACTION: ECCN 0Y521 Series BIS established the ECCN 0Y521 series in a final rule published April 13, 2012 (72 FR 22191) (hereinafter ‘‘April 13 rule’’) to identify items that warrant control on the Commerce Control List (CCL) but are not yet identified in an existing ECCN. Items are added to the ECCN 0Y521 series by the Department of Commerce, with the concurrence of the Departments of Defense and State, upon a determination that an item should be controlled because it provides at least a significant military or intelligence advantage to the United States or because foreign policy reasons justify such control. The ECCN 0Y521 series is a temporary holding classification with a limitation that while an item is temporarily classified PO 00000 Frm 00004 Fmt 4700 Sfmt 4700 under ECCN 0Y521, the U.S. Government works to adopt a control through the relevant multilateral regime(s), to determine an appropriate longer-term control over the item, or that the item does not warrant control on the CCL. Under the procedures established in the April 13 rule and codified at § 742.6(a)(7)(iii) of the EAR, items classified under ECCN 0Y521 remain soclassified for one year from the date a final rule identifying the item is published in the Federal Register amending the EAR, unless the item is re-classified under a different ECCN, under an EAR99 designation, or the 0Y521 classification is extended. During this time, the U.S. Government determines whether it is appropriate to submit a proposed control to the applicable export control regime (e.g., the Wassenaar Arrangement) for potential multilateral control, with the understanding that multilateral controls are preferable when practical. Technical Amendments Updating Supplement No. 5 to Part 774: Removal of References to Biosensor Systems and Related ‘‘Software’’ and ‘‘Technology’’ On March 28, 2013 (78 FR 18814), BIS imposed 0Y521 license requirements on biosensor systems and related ‘‘software’’ and ‘‘technology’’ for export and reexport to all destinations, except Canada. Under the procedures established in the April 13 rule and as described in Supplement No. 5 to Part 774, the effective date of the initial classification was the date of that rule’s publication, March 28, 2013, and the date the items would be designated EAR99, unless reclassified in another ECCN or the 0Y521 classification was reissued, was one year later, March 28, 2014. In the interim, BIS, on behalf of the U.S. Government, submitted a proposal to the Australia Group (a multilateral regime of which the United States is a member) for control of the items for nonproliferation reasons. The Australia Group decided that it would not impose controls on the items, and the U.S. Government did not seek further consideration of multilateral controls, nor did BIS re-classify the items under a different ECCN or reissue the 0Y521 classification. In accordance with § 742.6(a)(7)(iii) of the EAR, as of March 28, 2014, the 0Y521 classification of the biosensor systems and related ‘‘software’’ and ‘‘technology’’ expired, meaning the items were no longer classified in the 0Y521 series and became designated EAR99. By removing the items from the list of items classified in the 0Y521 series in Supplement No. 5 to Part, this rule removes text that E:\FR\FM\04AUR1.SGM 04AUR1

Agencies

[Federal Register Volume 79, Number 149 (Monday, August 4, 2014)]
[Rules and Regulations]
[Pages 45085-45088]
From the Federal Register Online via the Government Printing Office [www.gpo.gov]
[FR Doc No: 2014-17923]



========================================================================
Rules and Regulations
                                                Federal Register
________________________________________________________________________

This section of the FEDERAL REGISTER contains regulatory documents 
having general applicability and legal effect, most of which are keyed 
to and codified in the Code of Federal Regulations, which is published 
under 50 titles pursuant to 44 U.S.C. 1510.

The Code of Federal Regulations is sold by the Superintendent of Documents. 
Prices of new books are listed in the first FEDERAL REGISTER issue of each 
week.

========================================================================


Federal Register / Vol. 79, No. 149 / Monday, August 4, 2014 / Rules 
and Regulations

[[Page 45085]]



DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION

Federal Aviation Administration

14 CFR Part 39

[Docket No. FAA-2009-1088; Directorate Identifier 2008-SW-76-AD; 
Amendment 39-17872; AD 2014-12-11]
RIN 2120-AA64


Airworthiness Directives; Sikorsky Aircraft Corporation 
Helicopters

AGENCY: Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), DOT.

ACTION: Final rule.

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

SUMMARY: We are adopting a new airworthiness directive (AD) for the 
Sikorsky Aircraft Corporation (Sikorsky) Model S-92A helicopter. This 
AD requires revising the Rotorcraft Flight Manual (RFM) to include the 
appropriate operating limitations for performing Class D external load-
combination operations. This AD was prompted by an inaccurate RFM 
provision, which was approved without appropriate limitations for this 
model helicopter for carrying Class D external rotorcraft-load 
combinations, including human external cargo (HEC). The actions are 
intended to require appropriate operating limitations to allow 
operators to perform Class D external load-combination operations, 
including HEC, in this model helicopter that now meets the Category A 
performance standard.

DATES: This AD is effective September 8, 2014.

ADDRESSES: For service information identified in this AD, contact 
Sikorsky Aircraft Corporation, Attn: Manager, Commercial Technical 
Support, mailstop S581A, 6900 Main Street, Stratford, CT, telephone 
(203) 383-4866, email address tsslibrary@sikorsky.com, or at https://www.sikorsky.com. You may review a copy of 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 Operations Office 
between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m., Monday through Friday, except Federal 
holidays. The AD docket contains this AD, the economic evaluation, any 
comments received, and other information. The street address for the 
Docket Operations Office (phone: 800-647-5527) is U.S. Department of 
Transportation, Docket Operations Office, M-30, West Building Ground 
Floor, Room W12-140, 1200 New Jersey Avenue SE., Washington, DC 20590.

FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: John Coffey, Flight Test Engineer, 
Boston Aircraft Certification Office, 12 New England Executive Park, 
Burlington, MA 01803; telephone (781) 238-7173; email: 
john.coffey@faa.gov.

SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION:

Discussion

    On December 10, 2009, at 74 FR 65496, the Federal Register 
published our notice of proposed rulemaking (NPRM), which proposed to 
amend 14 CFR part 39 by adding an AD that would apply to Sikorsky Model 
S-92A helicopters. The NPRM proposed to require revising the RFM SA 
S92A-RFM-003, Part 1, Section 1, Operating Limitations, Types of 
Operation, by removing the statement ``RESCUE HOIST: Category `A' only 
External load operations with Class `D' external loads.'' The NPRM 
proposed replacing that statement with ``HOIST: Class D external loads 
PROHIBITED.'' Also, the NPRM proposed replacing the words ``RESCUE 
HOIST'' in the RFM with ``HOIST''. The NPRM was prompted by a mistake 
in the RFM, which allowed ``Class D'' rotorcraft load combinations for 
HEC operations for this model helicopter. The Model S-92A RFM did not 
include the required one-engine inoperative hover performance and 
procedures.
    On September 13, 2012, at 77 FR 56581, the Federal Register 
published our supplemental notice of proposed rulemaking (SNPRM), which 
proposed to revise the actions of the NPRM. The SNPRM proposed to allow 
Class D external load operations if the appropriate operating 
limitations are included in the RFM, instead of prohibiting rotorcraft 
load combinations for HEC operations. The proposed requirements were 
intended to require appropriate operating limitations to allow 
operators to perform Class D external load-combination operations, 
including HEC, in this model helicopter that now meets the Category A 
performance standard.

Comments

    After our SNPRM (77 FR 56581, September 13, 2012) was published, we 
received comments from one commenter.

Request

    Sikorsky generally concurs with the corrective action but requests 
that Paragraph (d)(3)(i) of the SNPRM (77 FR 56581, September 13, 
2012), which requires removing a note from the RFM, be deleted from the 
AD. Sikorsky commented that removing the note is not appropriate with 
respect to applying the 150 pound penalty for the hoist. Sikorsky 
states that the 150 pound penalty applies to the drag of the hoist 
being installed on the aircraft and, if one would first determine the 
maximum gross weight by the chart and then apply the penalty, they 
would always be limited to 150 pounds below the maximum gross weight of 
the helicopter. Sikorsky states the note is required so pilots do not 
erroneously apply a 150 pound penalty to their weight when they are 
maximum gross weight limited instead of performance limited. As the 
note only applies when the aircraft is performance limited, Sikorsky 
requests that it not be removed.
    We agree that the correct instructions need to be inserted in the 
Required Actions section, but disagree with Sikorsky's request. Not 
removing the note would result in keeping the incorrect instructions 
from the original Limitations section. But we are including a 
requirement to add the following note to the Weight Limits section of 
the RFM to address Sikorsky's comments and to provide accurate 
instructions: ``NOTE: If conditions permit, the pilot may go to the 
right of the 26,500 pound line on Figure 1-2 to determine the maximum 
gross weight and then subtract a 150 pound hoist decrement. The maximum 
gross weight

[[Page 45086]]

for category `A' operations cannot exceed 26,500 pounds (12,020) 
kilograms.''

FAA's Determination

    We have reviewed the relevant information, considered the comment 
received, and determined that an unsafe condition exists and is likely 
to exist or develop on other products of these same type designs and 
that air safety and the public interest require adopting the AD 
requirements as proposed with the changes described previously. We also 
changed the formatting of this AD to meet current publication 
requirements. These changes are consistent with the intent of the 
proposals in the SNPRM (77 FR 56581, September 13, 2012), and will not 
increase the economic burden on any operator nor increase the scope of 
the AD.

Costs of Compliance

    We estimate that this AD affects 65 helicopters in the U.S. 
registry. The costs for inserting a correction to the RFM are expected 
to be minimal.

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

List of Subjects in 14 CFR Part 39

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

Adoption of the Amendment

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

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):

2014-12-11 Sikorsky Aircraft Corporation: Amendment 39-17872; Docket 
No. FAA-2009-1088; Directorate Identifier 2008-SW-76-AD.

(a) Applicability

    This AD applies to Sikorsky Aircraft Corporation Model S-92A 
helicopters, certificated in any category.

(b) Unsafe Condition

    This AD defines the unsafe condition as an inaccurate Rotorcraft 
Flight Manual (RFM) provision, which was approved without 
appropriate limitations for this model helicopter for carrying Class 
D external rotorcraft-load combinations, including Human External 
Cargo (HEC), when this model helicopter was not certificated to 
Category A one-engine inoperative (OEI) performance standards, 
including fly away capabilities after an engine failure, which is 
required for carrying HEC.

(c) Effective Date

    This AD becomes effective September 8, 2014.

(d) Compliance

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

(e) Required Actions

    Within 90 days, revise the Operating Limitations section of 
Sikorsky Rotorcraft Flight Manual (RFM) SA S92A-RFM-003, Part 1, 
Section I, by inserting a copy of this AD into the RFM or by making 
pen and ink changes, as follows:
    (1) In the ``Types of Operation'' section, beneath Hoist, add 
the following: The hoist equipment certification installation 
approval does not constitute approval to conduct hoist operations. 
Operational approval for hoist operations must be granted by the 
Federal Aviation Administration. No cabin seats may be installed in 
front of station 317 when conducting Human External Cargo hoist 
operations, which requires Category A performance capabilities.
    (2) In the ``Flight Limits'' section, add the following: 
``HOIST'' When conducting Human External Cargo operations, which 
require category `A' performance capabilities, the minimum hover 
height is 20 feet AGL and the maximum hover height is 80 feet AGL. 
``HOIST'' The collective axis must remain uncoupled when conducting 
Human External Cargo, which requires category `A' performance 
capabilities, for the period of time that the person is off the 
ground or water and not in the aircraft. This can be accomplished by 
either uncoupling the collective axis or by the pilot depressing the 
collective trim switch during the pertinent portion of the maneuver.
    (3) In the ``Weight Limits'' section:
    (i) Remove the following: NOTE: The 150 pound hoist decrement 
does not preclude Cat A operations at a gross weight of 26,500 
pounds with a hoist installed. If conditions permit, the pilot may 
go to the right of the 26,500 line on Figure 1-2 to determine a 
maximum gross weight up to 26,650 and then subtract 150 pounds.
    (ii) Add the following: NOTE: If conditions permit, the pilot 
may go to the right of the 26,500 pound line on Figure 1-2 to 
determine the maximum gross weight and then subtract a 150 pound 
hoist decrement. The maximum gross weight for category `A' 
operations cannot exceed 26,500 pounds (12,020 kilograms).
    (iii) Add the following and insert Figure 1 to Paragraph 
(e)(3)(iii) of this AD: ``HOIST'' Maximum gross weight for Human 
External Cargo, which requires category `A' performance 
capabilities, is limited to the gross weight determined in 
accordance with the following Figure 1 to Paragraph (e)(3)(iii) of 
this AD for your altitude and temperature with the air-conditioner, 
anti-ice, and bleed air turned off.

    Note 1 to paragraph (e)(3)(iii) of this AD: Figure 1 to 
Paragraph (e)(3)(iii) of this AD becomes Figure 1-2A when inserted 
in the ``Weight Limits'' section of your RFM.

BILLING CODE 4910-13-P

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(f) Credit for Actions Previously Completed

    Incorporation of the changes contained in Sikorsky RFM SA S92A-
RFM-003, Part 1, Revision No. 12, approved March 21, 2005, before 
the effective date of this AD is considered acceptable for 
compliance with the corresponding actions specified in paragraph (e) 
of this AD.

(g) Alternative Methods of Compliance (AMOCs)

    (1) The Manager, Boston Aircraft Certification Office, FAA, may 
approve AMOCs for this AD. Send your proposal to: John Coffey, 
Flight Test Engineer, Boston Aircraft Certification Office, 12 New 
England Executive Park, Burlington, MA 01803; telephone (781) 238-
7173, fax (781) 238-7170; email john.coffey@faa.gov.
    (2) For operations conducted under a 14 CFR part 119 operating 
certificate or under 14 CFR part 91, subpart K, we suggest that you 
notify your principal inspector, or lacking a principal inspector, 
the manager of the local flight standards district office or 
certificate holding district office before operating any aircraft 
complying with this AD through an AMOC.

(h) Additional Information

    For service information identified in this AD, contact Sikorsky 
Aircraft Corporation, Attn: Manager, Commercial Technical Support, 
mailstop S581A, 6900 Main Street, Stratford, CT, telephone (203) 
383-4866, email address tsslibrary@sikorsky.com, or https://www.sikorsky.com. You may review a copy of this information at the 
FAA, Office of the Regional Counsel, Southwest Region, 2601 Meacham 
Blvd., Room 663, Fort Worth, Texas 76137.

(i) Subject

    Joint Aircraft Service Component (JASC) Code: 2510 Flight 
Compartment Equipment.

    Issued in Fort Worth, Texas, on July 22, 2014.
S. Frances Cox,
Acting Directorate Manager, Rotorcraft Directorate, Aircraft 
Certification Service.
[FR Doc. 2014-17923 Filed 8-1-14; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE 4910-13-C

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