Airworthiness Directives; Bell Helicopter Textron Canada Limited, 59695-59697 [2014-23582]
Download as PDF
Federal Register / Vol. 79, No. 192 / Friday, October 3, 2014 / Proposed Rules
2. In § 72.214, Certificate of
Compliance No. 1032 is revised to read
as follows:
■
§ 72.214 List of approved spent fuel
storage casks.
*
*
*
*
*
Certificate Number: 1032.
Initial Certificate Effective Date: June
13, 2011.
Amendment Number 1 Effective Date:
December 17, 2014.
SAR Submitted by: Holtec
International, Inc.
SAR Title: Final Safety Analysis
Report for the HI–STORM FW System.
Docket Number: 72–1032.
Certificate Expiration Date: June 12,
2031.
Model Number: HI–STORM FW
MPC–37, MPC–89.
Dated at Rockville, Maryland, this 18th day
of September 2014.
For the Nuclear Regulatory Commission.
Mark A. Satorius,
Executive Director for Operations.
[FR Doc. 2014–23631 Filed 10–2–14; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE 7590–01–P
DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION
Federal Aviation Administration
14 CFR Part 39
[Docket No. FAA–2013–0489; Directorate
Identifier 2008–SW–003–AD]
RIN 2120–AA64
Airworthiness Directives; Bell
Helicopter Textron Canada Limited
Federal Aviation
Administration (FAA), DOT.
ACTION: Supplemental notice of
proposed rulemaking (SNPRM);
reopening of comment period.
AGENCY:
We are revising and
reopening the comment period for an
earlier notice of proposed rulemaking
(NPRM) for certain Bell Helicopter
Textron Canada Limited (Bell) Model
206L–3 and 206L–4 helicopters. The
NPRM proposes to require installing a
placard and revising the limitations
section of the rotorcraft flight manual
(RFM). The NPRM was prompted by
several incidents of third stage engine
turbine wheel failures caused by
excessive vibrations at certain engine
speeds during steady-state operations.
This action proposes to revise the
NPRM by adding certain Model 206L1
helicopters to the applicability,
excluding certain Model 206L3 and
206L4 helicopters from the
applicability, and changing the
rmajette on DSK2TPTVN1PROD with PROPOSALS
SUMMARY:
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14:51 Oct 02, 2014
Jkt 235001
procedures for updating the RFM. Since
these actions impose an additional
burden over that proposed in the NPRM,
we are reopening the comment period to
allow the public the chance to comment
on these proposed changes.
DATES: We must receive comments on
this SNPRM by December 2, 2014.
ADDRESSES: You may send comments by
any of the following methods:
• Federal eRulemaking Docket: Go to
https://www.regulations.gov. Follow the
online instructions for sending your
comments electronically.
• Fax: 202–493–2251.
• Mail: Send comments to the U.S.
Department of Transportation, Docket
Operations, M–30, West Building
Ground Floor, Room W12–140, 1200
New Jersey Avenue SE., Washington,
DC 20590–0001.
• Hand Delivery: Deliver to the
‘‘Mail’’ address between 9 a.m. and 5
p.m., Monday through Friday, except
Federal holidays.
Examining the AD Docket
You may examine the AD docket on
the Internet at https://
www.regulations.gov or in person at the
Docket Operations Office between 9
a.m. and 5 p.m., Monday through
Friday, except Federal holidays. The AD
docket contains this proposed AD, the
foreign authority’s AD, the economic
evaluation, any comments received, and
other information. The street address for
the Docket Operations Office (telephone
800–647–5527) is in the ADDRESSES
section. Comments will be available in
the AD docket shortly after receipt.
For service information identified in
this proposed AD, contact Bell
Helicopter Textron Canada Limited,
12,800 Rue de l’Avenir, Mirabel, Quebec
J7J1R4; telephone (450) 437–2862 or
(800) 363–8023; fax (450) 433–0272; or
at https://www.bellcustomer.com/files/.
You may review the referenced service
information at the FAA, Office of the
Regional Counsel, Southwest Region,
2601 Meacham Blvd., Room 663, Fort
Worth, Texas 76137.
FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT:
James Blyn, Aviation Safety Engineer,
Regulations and Policy Group,
Rotorcraft Directorate, FAA, 2601
Meacham Blvd., Fort Worth, Texas
76137; telephone (817) 222–5110; email
james.blyn@faa.gov.
SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION:
Comments Invited
We invite you to participate in this
rulemaking by submitting written
comments, data, or views. We also
invite comments relating to the
economic, environmental, energy, or
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Fmt 4702
Sfmt 4702
59695
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
We issued an NPRM to amend 14 CFR
part 39 to add an airworthiness directive
(AD) that would apply to certain Bell
Model 206L–3 and 206L–4 helicopters.
The NPRM was published in the
Federal Register on June 7, 2013 (78 FR
34282). The NPRM proposed to require
installing a placard on the instrument
panel below the dual tachometer and
revising the Operating Limitations
section of the Model 206L3 and 206L4
RFMs by inserting pages that limit
steady-state operations between speeds
of 71.8% and 91.5%.
The NPRM was prompted by
Transport Canada Civil Aviation (TCCA)
AD No. CF–2005–28R1, dated June 14,
2007, to correct an unsafe condition for
certain Model 206L–3 and 206L–4
helicopters. TCCA, which is the aviation
authority for Canada, advises of several
failures of third stage turbine wheels
used in Rolls-Royce 250–C30S and 250–
C47B engines. According to TCCA,
Rolls-Royce determined that detrimental
vibrations can occur within a particular
range of turbine speeds, and may be a
contributing factor to these failures. Bell
has revised the RFM and provided a
corresponding decal to inform pilots to
avoid steady-state operations between
71.8% and 91.5% turbine speeds. The
TCCA AD requires amending the RFMs,
advising pilots of the change, and
installing a decal as described in Bell
Alert Service Bulletin (ASB) No. 206L–
05–134, dated June 8, 2005, or later
revisions.
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59696
Federal Register / Vol. 79, No. 192 / Friday, October 3, 2014 / Proposed Rules
Actions Since Previous NPRM was
Issued
Since we issued the NPRM (78 FR
34282, June 7, 2013), we determined
that Bell Model 206L1 helicopters with
Engine Upgrade Kit Part Number (P/N)
206–706–520 installed should be
included in the applicability. Engine
Upgrade Kit P/N 206–706–520 replaces
the Rolls-Royce 250–C28B engine with
a Rolls-Royce 250–C30P engine. The
condition causing the failures of third
stage turbine wheels used in RollsRoyce 250–C30S and 250–C–47B
engines could also exist in Rolls-Royce
250–C30P engines. Lastly, we have
determined that Bell Model 206L3 and
206L4 helicopters having Rolls-Royce
250–C20R engines installed under
Supplemental Type Certificate (STC)
number SR00036SE are exempt from the
requirements of the proposed AD
because that engine is not affected by
the unsafe condition. This SNPRM also
changes the procedures for modifying
the RFM Limitations Section from
inserting revised pages to making pen
and ink changes.
Comments
We gave the public the opportunity to
comment on the previous NPRM (78 FR
34282, June 7, 2013), and we received
a comment from one commenter.
rmajette on DSK2TPTVN1PROD with PROPOSALS
Request
Rolls-Royce Corporation requested
that in addition to requiring the placard
on the instrument panel, we allow
operators the option to temporarily
mark the Nr/Np gauge with colored tape
to provide a more visual aide to the
pilot for the speed avoidance zone.
We disagree. Marking the glass
surface of the gauge can create parallax
issues when viewing the avoidance
ranges on the gauge, resulting in
erroneous readings.
FAA’s Determination
We are proposing this SNPRM
because we evaluated all known
relevant information and determined
that an unsafe condition is likely to
exist or develop on other products of
these same type designs. Certain
changes described above expand the
scope of the original NPRM (78 FR
34282, June 7, 2013). As a result, we
have determined that it is necessary to
reopen the comment period to provide
additional opportunity for the public to
comment on this SNPRM.
Related Service Information
Bell issued ASB No. 206L–05–134,
Revision A, dated April 9, 2007, which
describes procedures for installing a
placard on the instrument panel below
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14:51 Oct 02, 2014
Jkt 235001
the main rotor RPM (Nr)/power turbine
RPM (N2) dual tachometer and for
inserting the RFM changes into the
flight manual. Revision A of the ASB
was issued to exclude Bell Model 206L–
3 and 206L–4 helicopters with 250–
C20R engines installed under STC No.
SR00036SE from the requirements of the
ASB.
Proposed Requirements of the SNPRM
This proposed AD would require
installing a placard on the instrument
panel below the NR/N2 dual tachometer
and also requires revising the Operating
Limitations section of the Model 206L3
and 206L4 RFMs to limit steady-state
operations between speeds of 71.8%
and 91.5%.
Differences Between This Supplemental
NPRM and the TCCA AD
The TCCA AD requires compliance
within 10 calendar days; this proposed
AD would require compliance within 30
days. This proposed AD would be
applicable to Model 206L–1 helicopters
with Engine Upgrade Kit P/N 206–706–
520 installed because the same unsafe
condition exits on this model, and the
TCCA AD is not.
Costs of Compliance
We estimate that this proposed AD
would affect 616 helicopters of U.S.
Registry. We estimate that operators
may incur the following costs in order
to comply with this AD. Based on an
average labor rate of $85 per hour,
amending the RFM would require about
0.5 work-hour, for a cost per helicopter
of about $43 and a cost to U.S. operators
of $26,488. Installing the decal would
require about 0.2 work-hour, and
required parts would cost $20, for a cost
per helicopter of $37 and a cost to U.S.
operators of $22,792. Based on these
estimates, the total cost of this proposed
AD would be $80 per helicopter and
$49,280 for the fleet.
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
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Fmt 4702
Sfmt 4702
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, 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 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 proposed 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.
The Proposed Amendment
Accordingly, under the authority
delegated to me by the Administrator,
the FAA proposes to amend 14 CFR part
39 as follows:
PART 39—AIRWORTHINESS
DIRECTIVES
1. The authority citation for part 39
continues to read as follows:
■
Authority: 49 U.S.C. 106(g), 40113, 44701.
§ 39.13
[Amended]
2. Amend § 39.13 by adding the
following new airworthiness directive
(AD):
■
Bell Helicopter Textron Canada Limited
(Bell): Docket No. FAA–2013–0489;
Directorate Identifier 2008–SW–003–AD.
(a) Applicability
This AD applies to the following
helicopters, certificated in any category:
(1) Bell Model 206L–1 with an Engine
Upgrade Kit Part Number (P/N) No. 206–706–
520–101 installed;
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Federal Register / Vol. 79, No. 192 / Friday, October 3, 2014 / Proposed Rules
(2) Bell Model 206L–3, serial number (S/
N) 51001 through 51612, except those with
a Rolls-Royce 250–C20R engine installed
under Supplemental Type Certificate (STC)
No. SR00036SE; and
(3) Bell Model 206L–4, S/N 52001 through
52313, except those with a Rolls-Royce 250–
C20R engine installed under STC No.
SR00036SE.
the FAA, Office of the Regional Counsel,
Southwest Region, 2601 Meacham Blvd.,
Room 663, Fort Worth, Texas 76137.
(2) The subject of this AD is addressed in
Transport Canada Civil Aviation (TCCA) AD
No. CF–2005–28R1, dated June 14, 2007. You
may view the TCCA AD at https://
www.regulations.gov in Docket No. FAA–
2013–0489.
(b) Unsafe Condition
This AD defines the unsafe condition as a
third stage turbine vibration, which could
result in turbine failure, engine power loss,
and subsequent loss of control of the
helicopter.
(h) Subject
Joint Aircraft Service Component (JASC)
Code: 7250, Turbine Section.
(c) Comments Due Date
We must receive comments by December 2,
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 30 days:
(1) Install placard P/N 230–075–213–117,
or equivalent, on the instrument panel
directly below the dual tachometer.
(2) Revise the Operating Limitations
section of the Rotorcraft Flight Manual (RFM)
by inserting a copy of this AD into the RFM
or by making pen and ink changes as follows:
(i) In the Power Plant section, beneath the
Power Turbine RPM header, add: Avoid
continuous operations 71.8% to 91.5%.
(ii) In the Placards and Decals section, add:
AVOID CONT OPS 71.8% TO 91.5% N2’’
with the location identification ‘‘Location:
Instrument Panel.
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(f) Alternative Methods of Compliance
(AMOCs)
(1) The Manager, Safety Management
Group, FAA, may approve AMOCs for this
AD. Send your proposal to: James Blyn,
Aviation Safety Engineer, Regulations and
Policy Group, Rotorcraft Directorate, FAA,
2601 Meacham Blvd., Fort Worth, Texas
76137; telephone (817) 222–5110; email
james.blyn@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
(1) Bell Alert Service Bulletin No. 206L–
05–134, Revision A, dated April 9, 2007,
which is not incorporated by reference,
contains additional information about the
subject of this AD. For service information
identified in this AD, contact Bell Helicopter
Textron Canada Limited, 12,800 Rue de
l’Avenir, Mirabel, Quebec J7J1R4; telephone
(450) 437–2862 or (800) 363–8023; fax (450)
433–0272; or at https://
www.bellcustomer.com/files/. You may
review a copy of the service information at
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14:51 Oct 02, 2014
Jkt 235001
Issued in Fort Worth, Texas, on September
17, 2014.
Kim Smith,
Directorate Manager, Rotorcraft Directorate,
Aircraft Certification Service.
[FR Doc. 2014–23582 Filed 10–2–14; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE 4910–13–P
DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION
Federal Aviation Administration
14 CFR Part 39
[Docket No. FAA–2014–0758; Directorate
Identifier 2013–SW–062–AD]
RIN 2120–AA64
Airworthiness Directives; Kaman
Aerospace Corporation (Kaman)
Helicopters
Federal Aviation
Administration (FAA), DOT.
ACTION: Notice of proposed rulemaking
(NPRM).
AGENCY:
We propose to adopt a new
airworthiness directive (AD) for Kaman
Model K–1200 helicopters with certain
main rotor blades (MRB) installed. This
proposed AD would require inspecting
each MRB for a crack or damage. This
proposed AD is prompted by a report
that a crack was found on an MRB
during a tear-down inspection. The
proposed actions are intended to detect
a crack in the MRB, which could lead
to failure of the MRB and subsequent
loss of control of the helicopter.
DATES: We must receive comments on
this proposed AD by December 2, 2014.
ADDRESSES: You may send comments by
any of the following methods:
• Federal eRulemaking Docket: Go to
https://www.regulations.gov. Follow the
online instructions for sending your
comments electronically.
• Fax: 202–493–2251.
• Mail: Send comments to the U.S.
Department of Transportation, Docket
Operations, M–30, West Building
Ground Floor, Room W12–140, 1200
New Jersey Avenue SE., Washington,
DC 20590–0001.
• Hand Delivery: Deliver to the
‘‘Mail’’ address between 9 a.m. and 5
SUMMARY:
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Fmt 4702
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59697
p.m., Monday through Friday, except
Federal holidays.
Examining the AD Docket
You may examine the AD docket on
the Internet at https://
www.regulations.gov or in person at the
Docket Operations Office between 9
a.m. and 5 p.m., Monday through
Friday, except Federal holidays. The AD
docket contains this proposed AD, the
economic evaluation, any comments
received, and other information. The
street address for the Docket Operations
Office (telephone 800–647–5527) is in
the ADDRESSES section. Comments will
be available in the AD docket shortly
after receipt.
For service information identified in
this proposed AD, contact Kaman
Aerospace Corporation, Old Windsor
Rd., P.O. Box 2, Bloomfield, CT 06002–
0002; telephone (860) 242–4461; fax
(860) 243–7047; or at https://
www.kamanaero.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.
FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT:
Nicholas Faust, Aviation Safety
Engineer, Boston Aircraft Certification
Office, Engine & Propeller Directorate,
12 New England Executive Park,
Burlington, Massachusetts 01803;
telephone (781) 238–7763; email
nicholas.faust@faa.gov.
SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION:
Comments Invited
We invite you to participate in this
rulemaking by submitting written
comments, data, or views. We also
invite comments relating to the
economic, environmental, energy, or
federalism impacts that might result
from adopting the proposals in this
document. The most helpful comments
reference a specific portion of the
proposal, explain the reason for any
recommended change, and include
supporting data. To ensure the docket
does not contain duplicate comments,
commenters should send only one copy
of written comments, or if comments are
filed electronically, commenters should
submit only one time.
We will file in the docket all
comments that we receive, as well as a
report summarizing each substantive
public contact with FAA personnel
concerning this proposed rulemaking.
Before acting on this proposal, we will
consider all comments we receive on or
before the closing date for comments.
We will consider comments filed after
the comment period has closed if it is
E:\FR\FM\03OCP1.SGM
03OCP1
Agencies
[Federal Register Volume 79, Number 192 (Friday, October 3, 2014)]
[Proposed Rules]
[Pages 59695-59697]
From the Federal Register Online via the Government Printing Office [www.gpo.gov]
[FR Doc No: 2014-23582]
=======================================================================
-----------------------------------------------------------------------
DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION
Federal Aviation Administration
14 CFR Part 39
[Docket No. FAA-2013-0489; Directorate Identifier 2008-SW-003-AD]
RIN 2120-AA64
Airworthiness Directives; Bell Helicopter Textron Canada Limited
AGENCY: Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), DOT.
ACTION: Supplemental notice of proposed rulemaking (SNPRM); reopening
of comment period.
-----------------------------------------------------------------------
SUMMARY: We are revising and reopening the comment period for an
earlier notice of proposed rulemaking (NPRM) for certain Bell
Helicopter Textron Canada Limited (Bell) Model 206L-3 and 206L-4
helicopters. The NPRM proposes to require installing a placard and
revising the limitations section of the rotorcraft flight manual (RFM).
The NPRM was prompted by several incidents of third stage engine
turbine wheel failures caused by excessive vibrations at certain engine
speeds during steady-state operations. This action proposes to revise
the NPRM by adding certain Model 206L1 helicopters to the
applicability, excluding certain Model 206L3 and 206L4 helicopters from
the applicability, and changing the procedures for updating the RFM.
Since these actions impose an additional burden over that proposed in
the NPRM, we are reopening the comment period to allow the public the
chance to comment on these proposed changes.
DATES: We must receive comments on this SNPRM by December 2, 2014.
ADDRESSES: You may send comments by any of the following methods:
Federal eRulemaking Docket: Go to https://www.regulations.gov. Follow the online instructions for sending your
comments electronically.
Fax: 202-493-2251.
Mail: Send comments to the U.S. Department of
Transportation, Docket Operations, M-30, West Building Ground Floor,
Room W12-140, 1200 New Jersey Avenue SE., Washington, DC 20590-0001.
Hand Delivery: Deliver to the ``Mail'' address between 9
a.m. and 5 p.m., Monday through Friday, except Federal holidays.
Examining the AD Docket
You may examine the AD docket on the Internet at https://www.regulations.gov or in person at the Docket Operations Office
between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m., Monday through Friday, except Federal
holidays. The AD docket contains this proposed AD, the foreign
authority's AD, the economic evaluation, any comments received, and
other information. The street address for the Docket Operations Office
(telephone 800-647-5527) is in the ADDRESSES section. Comments will be
available in the AD docket shortly after receipt.
For service information identified in this proposed AD, contact
Bell Helicopter Textron Canada Limited, 12,800 Rue de l'Avenir,
Mirabel, Quebec J7J1R4; telephone (450) 437-2862 or (800) 363-8023; fax
(450) 433-0272; or at https://www.bellcustomer.com/files/. You may
review the referenced service information at the FAA, Office of the
Regional Counsel, Southwest Region, 2601 Meacham Blvd., Room 663, Fort
Worth, Texas 76137.
FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: James Blyn, Aviation Safety Engineer,
Regulations and Policy Group, Rotorcraft Directorate, FAA, 2601 Meacham
Blvd., Fort Worth, Texas 76137; telephone (817) 222-5110; email
james.blyn@faa.gov.
SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION:
Comments Invited
We invite you to participate in this rulemaking by submitting
written comments, data, or views. We also invite comments relating to
the economic, environmental, energy, or federalism impacts that might
result from adopting the proposals in this document. The most helpful
comments reference a specific portion of the proposal, explain the
reason for any recommended change, and include supporting data. To
ensure the docket does not contain duplicate comments, commenters
should send only one copy of written comments, or if comments are filed
electronically, commenters should submit only one time.
We will file in the docket all comments that we receive, as well as
a report summarizing each substantive public contact with FAA personnel
concerning this proposed rulemaking. Before acting on this proposal, we
will consider all comments we receive on or before the closing date for
comments. We will consider comments filed after the comment period has
closed if it is possible to do so without incurring expense or delay.
We may change this proposal in light of the comments we receive.
Discussion
We issued an NPRM to amend 14 CFR part 39 to add an airworthiness
directive (AD) that would apply to certain Bell Model 206L-3 and 206L-4
helicopters. The NPRM was published in the Federal Register on June 7,
2013 (78 FR 34282). The NPRM proposed to require installing a placard
on the instrument panel below the dual tachometer and revising the
Operating Limitations section of the Model 206L3 and 206L4 RFMs by
inserting pages that limit steady-state operations between speeds of
71.8% and 91.5%.
The NPRM was prompted by Transport Canada Civil Aviation (TCCA) AD
No. CF-2005-28R1, dated June 14, 2007, to correct an unsafe condition
for certain Model 206L-3 and 206L-4 helicopters. TCCA, which is the
aviation authority for Canada, advises of several failures of third
stage turbine wheels used in Rolls-Royce 250-C30S and 250-C47B engines.
According to TCCA, Rolls-Royce determined that detrimental vibrations
can occur within a particular range of turbine speeds, and may be a
contributing factor to these failures. Bell has revised the RFM and
provided a corresponding decal to inform pilots to avoid steady-state
operations between 71.8% and 91.5% turbine speeds. The TCCA AD requires
amending the RFMs, advising pilots of the change, and installing a
decal as described in Bell Alert Service Bulletin (ASB) No. 206L-05-
134, dated June 8, 2005, or later revisions.
[[Page 59696]]
Actions Since Previous NPRM was Issued
Since we issued the NPRM (78 FR 34282, June 7, 2013), we determined
that Bell Model 206L1 helicopters with Engine Upgrade Kit Part Number
(P/N) 206-706-520 installed should be included in the applicability.
Engine Upgrade Kit P/N 206-706-520 replaces the Rolls-Royce 250-C28B
engine with a Rolls-Royce 250-C30P engine. The condition causing the
failures of third stage turbine wheels used in Rolls-Royce 250-C30S and
250-C-47B engines could also exist in Rolls-Royce 250-C30P engines.
Lastly, we have determined that Bell Model 206L3 and 206L4 helicopters
having Rolls-Royce 250-C20R engines installed under Supplemental Type
Certificate (STC) number SR00036SE are exempt from the requirements of
the proposed AD because that engine is not affected by the unsafe
condition. This SNPRM also changes the procedures for modifying the RFM
Limitations Section from inserting revised pages to making pen and ink
changes.
Comments
We gave the public the opportunity to comment on the previous NPRM
(78 FR 34282, June 7, 2013), and we received a comment from one
commenter.
Request
Rolls-Royce Corporation requested that in addition to requiring the
placard on the instrument panel, we allow operators the option to
temporarily mark the Nr/Np gauge with colored
tape to provide a more visual aide to the pilot for the speed avoidance
zone.
We disagree. Marking the glass surface of the gauge can create
parallax issues when viewing the avoidance ranges on the gauge,
resulting in erroneous readings.
FAA's Determination
We are proposing this SNPRM because we evaluated all known relevant
information and determined that an unsafe condition is likely to exist
or develop on other products of these same type designs. Certain
changes described above expand the scope of the original NPRM (78 FR
34282, June 7, 2013). As a result, we have determined that it is
necessary to reopen the comment period to provide additional
opportunity for the public to comment on this SNPRM.
Related Service Information
Bell issued ASB No. 206L-05-134, Revision A, dated April 9, 2007,
which describes procedures for installing a placard on the instrument
panel below the main rotor RPM (Nr)/power turbine RPM (N2) dual
tachometer and for inserting the RFM changes into the flight manual.
Revision A of the ASB was issued to exclude Bell Model 206L-3 and 206L-
4 helicopters with 250-C20R engines installed under STC No. SR00036SE
from the requirements of the ASB.
Proposed Requirements of the SNPRM
This proposed AD would require installing a placard on the
instrument panel below the NR/N2 dual tachometer and also requires
revising the Operating Limitations section of the Model 206L3 and 206L4
RFMs to limit steady-state operations between speeds of 71.8% and
91.5%.
Differences Between This Supplemental NPRM and the TCCA AD
The TCCA AD requires compliance within 10 calendar days; this
proposed AD would require compliance within 30 days. This proposed AD
would be applicable to Model 206L-1 helicopters with Engine Upgrade Kit
P/N 206-706-520 installed because the same unsafe condition exits on
this model, and the TCCA AD is not.
Costs of Compliance
We estimate that this proposed AD would affect 616 helicopters of
U.S. Registry. We estimate that operators may incur the following costs
in order to comply with this AD. Based on an average labor rate of $85
per hour, amending the RFM would require about 0.5 work-hour, for a
cost per helicopter of about $43 and a cost to U.S. operators of
$26,488. Installing the decal would require about 0.2 work-hour, and
required parts would cost $20, for a cost per helicopter of $37 and a
cost to U.S. operators of $22,792. Based on these estimates, the total
cost of this proposed AD would be $80 per helicopter and $49,280 for
the fleet.
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, 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 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 proposed 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.
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):
Bell Helicopter Textron Canada Limited (Bell): Docket No. FAA-2013-
0489; Directorate Identifier 2008-SW-003-AD.
(a) Applicability
This AD applies to the following helicopters, certificated in
any category:
(1) Bell Model 206L-1 with an Engine Upgrade Kit Part Number (P/
N) No. 206-706-520-101 installed;
[[Page 59697]]
(2) Bell Model 206L-3, serial number (S/N) 51001 through 51612,
except those with a Rolls-Royce 250-C20R engine installed under
Supplemental Type Certificate (STC) No. SR00036SE; and
(3) Bell Model 206L-4, S/N 52001 through 52313, except those
with a Rolls-Royce 250-C20R engine installed under STC No.
SR00036SE.
(b) Unsafe Condition
This AD defines the unsafe condition as a third stage turbine
vibration, which could result in turbine failure, engine power loss,
and subsequent loss of control of the helicopter.
(c) Comments Due Date
We must receive comments by December 2, 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 30 days:
(1) Install placard P/N 230-075-213-117, or equivalent, on the
instrument panel directly below the dual tachometer.
(2) Revise the Operating Limitations section of the Rotorcraft
Flight Manual (RFM) by inserting a copy of this AD into the RFM or
by making pen and ink changes as follows:
(i) In the Power Plant section, beneath the Power Turbine RPM
header, add: Avoid continuous operations 71.8% to 91.5%.
(ii) In the Placards and Decals section, add: AVOID CONT OPS
71.8% TO 91.5% N2'' with the location identification ``Location:
Instrument Panel.
(f) Alternative Methods of Compliance (AMOCs)
(1) The Manager, Safety Management Group, FAA, may approve AMOCs
for this AD. Send your proposal to: James Blyn, Aviation Safety
Engineer, Regulations and Policy Group, Rotorcraft Directorate, FAA,
2601 Meacham Blvd., Fort Worth, Texas 76137; telephone (817) 222-
5110; email james.blyn@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
(1) Bell Alert Service Bulletin No. 206L-05-134, Revision A,
dated April 9, 2007, which is not incorporated by reference,
contains additional information about the subject of this AD. For
service information identified in this AD, contact Bell Helicopter
Textron Canada Limited, 12,800 Rue de l'Avenir, Mirabel, Quebec
J7J1R4; telephone (450) 437-2862 or (800) 363-8023; fax (450) 433-
0272; or at https://www.bellcustomer.com/files/. You may review a
copy of the service information at the FAA, Office of the Regional
Counsel, Southwest Region, 2601 Meacham Blvd., Room 663, Fort Worth,
Texas 76137.
(2) The subject of this AD is addressed in Transport Canada
Civil Aviation (TCCA) AD No. CF-2005-28R1, dated June 14, 2007. You
may view the TCCA AD at https://www.regulations.gov in Docket No.
FAA-2013-0489.
(h) Subject
Joint Aircraft Service Component (JASC) Code: 7250, Turbine
Section.
Issued in Fort Worth, Texas, on September 17, 2014.
Kim Smith,
Directorate Manager, Rotorcraft Directorate, Aircraft Certification
Service.
[FR Doc. 2014-23582 Filed 10-2-14; 8:45 am]
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