Airworthiness Directives; PILATUS Aircraft Ltd. Airplanes, 60389-60391 [2014-23880]

Download as PDF Federal Register / Vol. 79, No. 194 / Tuesday, October 7, 2014 / Proposed Rules of the Accomplishment Instructions in Beechcraft Mandatory Service Bulletin SB 28–4127. 8. Do steps (6) through (10) of the Accomplishment Instructions in Beechcraft Mandatory Service Bulletin SB 28–4131. Note: Steps (21), (24), and (25) from task 7 and steps (8), (9), and (10) from task 8 can be done concurrently. DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION Appendix 3 to AD 2014* * * Airworthiness Directives; PILATUS Aircraft Ltd. Airplanes For Model G58 airplanes serial numbers TH–2360, TH–2361, TH–2367, TH–2368, TH–2370, TH–2372, and TH–2373 that have not completed Beechcraft Mandatory Service Bulletin SB 28–4131, dated November 2013 and have not completed Part 2 of Beechcraft Mandatory Service Bulletin SB 28–4127, dated June 2013. The information in the appendix cannot be used for direct compliance with the AD. All of the actions in paragraphs (g) and (h) of this AD must be completed for compliance with this AD. The following is a suggested order of tasks that may assist the mechanic in completing overlapping tasks associated with Beechcraft Mandatory Service Bulletin SB 28–4131, dated November 2013, and Part 2 of Beechcraft Mandatory Service Bulletin SB 28–4127, dated June 2013. Suggested Order of Tasks 1. Do steps (1) through (5) of the Accomplishment Instructions in Beechcraft Mandatory Service Bulletin SB 28–4131. 2. Do steps (7) and (8) of the Accomplishment Instructions in Beechcraft Mandatory Service Bulletin SB 28–4131. 3. Do steps (1) through (6) of Part 2 of the Accomplishment Instructions in Beechcraft Mandatory Service Bulletin SB 28–4127. For step (2), heat shields should have been previously removed for Beechcraft Mandatory Service Bulletin SB 28–4131. 4. Do steps (7) through (11) of Part 2 of the Accomplishment Instructions in Beechcraft Mandatory Service Bulletin SB 28–4127. 5. Do steps (6), (9), and (10) of the Accomplishment Instructions in Beechcraft Mandatory Service Bulletin SB 28–4131. Note: Steps (9) and (10) from task 5 and steps (10), and (11) from task 4 can be done concurrently. Issued in Kansas City, Missouri, on September 30, 2014. Earl Lawrence, Manager, Small Airplane Directorate, Aircraft Certification Service. [FR Doc. 2014–23879 Filed 10–6–14; 8:45 am] asabaliauskas on DSK5VPTVN1PROD with RULES BILLING CODE 4910–13–P VerDate Sep<11>2014 16:15 Oct 06, 2014 Jkt 235001 60389 Federal Aviation Administration Missouri 64106. For information on the availability of this material at the FAA, call (816) 329–4148. 14 CFR Part 39 Examining the AD Docket [Docket No. FAA–2014–0770; Directorate Identifier 2014–CE–024–AD] RIN 2120–AA64 Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), Department of Transportation (DOT). ACTION: Notice of proposed rulemaking (NPRM). AGENCY: We propose to adopt a new airworthiness directive (AD) for PILATUS Aircraft Ltd. Model PC–7 airplanes. This proposed AD results from mandatory continuing airworthiness information (MCAI) originated by an aviation authority of another country to identify and correct an unsafe condition on an aviation product. The MCAI describes the unsafe condition as possible cracking from stress corrosion on various parts of the aircraft structure made of aluminum alloy AA2024–T351. We are issuing this proposed AD to require actions to address the unsafe condition on these products. DATES: We must receive comments on this proposed AD by November 21, 2014. ADDRESSES: You may send comments by any of the following methods: • Federal eRulemaking Portal: Go to https://www.regulations.gov. Follow the instructions for submitting comments. • Fax: (202) 493–2251. • Mail: U.S. Department of Transportation, Docket Operations, M– 30, West Building Ground Floor, Room W12–140, 1200 New Jersey Avenue SE., Washington, DC 20590. • Hand Delivery: U.S. Department of Transportation, Docket Operations, M– 30, West Building Ground Floor, Room W12–140, 1200 New Jersey Avenue SE., Washington, DC 20590, between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m., Monday through Friday, except Federal holidays. For service information identified in this proposed AD, contact PILATUS AIRCRAFT LTD., Customer Technical Support (MCC), P.O. Box 992, CH–6371 Stans, Switzerland; phone: +41 (0)41 619 67 74; fax: +41 (0)41 619 67 73; email: Techsupport@pilatusaircraft.com; internet: https:// www.pilatus-aircraft.com. You may review this referenced service information at the FAA, Small Airplane Directorate, 901 Locust, Kansas City, SUMMARY: PO 00000 Frm 00007 Fmt 4702 Sfmt 4702 You may examine the AD docket on the Internet at https:// www.regulations.gov by searching for and locating Docket No. FAA–2014– 0770; or in person at the Docket Management Facility between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m., Monday through Friday, except Federal holidays. The AD docket contains this proposed AD, the regulatory evaluation, any comments received, and other information. The street address for the Docket Office (telephone (800) 647–5527) is in the ADDRESSES section. Comments will be available in the AD docket shortly after receipt. FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Doug Rudolph, Aerospace Engineer, FAA, Small Airplane Directorate, 901 Locust, Room 301, Kansas City, Missouri 64106; telephone: (816) 329– 4059; fax: (816) 329–4090; email: doug.rudolph@faa.gov. SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: Comments Invited We invite you to send any written relevant data, views, or arguments about this proposed AD. Send your comments to an address listed under the ADDRESSES section. Include ‘‘Docket No. FAA–2014–0770; Directorate Identifier 2014–CE–024–AD’’ at the beginning of your comments. We specifically invite comments on the overall regulatory, economic, environmental, and energy aspects of this proposed AD. We will consider all comments received by the closing date and may amend this proposed AD because of those comments. We will post all comments we receive, without change, to https:// regulations.gov, including any personal information you provide. We will also post a report summarizing each substantive verbal contact we receive about this proposed AD. Discussion The Federal Office of Civil Aviation (FOCA), which is the aviation authority for Switzerland, has issued AD HB– 2014–001, dated July 25, 2014 (referred to after this as ‘‘the MCAI’’), to correct an unsafe condition for PILATUS Aircraft Ltd. Model PC–7 airplanes and was based on mandatory continuing airworthiness information originated by an aviation authority of another country. The MCAI states: This Airworthiness Directive (AD) is prompted due to the possibility of cracks in E:\FR\FM\07OCP1.SGM 07OCP1 60390 Federal Register / Vol. 79, No. 194 / Tuesday, October 7, 2014 / Proposed Rules some critical parts. It is possible that stress corrosion cracks may occur on various parts of the aircraft structure initially made of aluminium alloy AA2024–T351 which is susceptible to Stress Corrosion Cracking (SCC). Later in production, the material specification was changed to aluminium alloy AA2124–T851 to decrease the risk of stress corrosion. The Part Number (P/N) of the affected structural parts are not always changed when the new material was introduced. Such a condition, if left uncorrected, could lead to failure of critical parts on the aircraft structure and will prejudice the structural integrity of the aircraft. In order to correct and control the situation, this AD requires a one-time check to identify the material specification and inspect the affected areas of the airframe that are made of aluminium alloy AA2024–T351. Any structural parts of the aircraft structure found to be cracked must be reported to Pilatus prior to further flight. The MCAI also requires replacement of the elevator center control-rod, P/N 116.35.07.271 or 116.35.07.345; and shackle, P/N 116.35.07.183. You may examine the MCAI on the Internet at https://www.regulations.gov by searching for and locating Docket No. FAA–2014– 0770. Relevant Service Information PILATUS Aircraft Ltd. has issued PILATUS PC–7 Service Bulletin No: 51– 001, Revision No. 1, dated August 26, 2014. The actions described in this service information are intended to correct the unsafe condition identified in the MCAI. PILATUS PC–7 Service Bulletin No: 51–001 was revised to Revision No. 1 after the issuance of the MCAI. FAA’s Determination and Requirements of the Proposed AD asabaliauskas on DSK5VPTVN1PROD with RULES This product has been approved by the aviation authority of another country, and is approved for operation in the United States. Pursuant to our bilateral agreement with this State of Design Authority, they have notified us of the unsafe condition described in the MCAI and service information referenced above. We are proposing this AD because we evaluated all information and determined the unsafe condition exists and is likely to exist or develop on other products of the same type design. Costs of Compliance We estimate that this proposed AD will affect 10 products of U.S. registry. We also estimate that it would take about 30 work-hours per product to comply with the basic requirements of this proposed AD. The average labor rate is $85 per work-hour. Required VerDate Sep<11>2014 16:15 Oct 06, 2014 Jkt 235001 parts would cost about $4,700 per product. Based on these figures, we estimate the cost of the proposed AD on U.S. operators to be $72,500, or $7,250 per product. In addition, we estimate that any necessary follow-on actions would take about 14 work-hours and require parts costing $10,000, for a cost of $11,190 per product. We have no way of determining the number of products that may need these actions. 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 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. The FAA amends § 39.13 by adding the following new AD: ■ PILATUS Aircraft Ltd.: Docket No. FAA– 2014–0770; Directorate Identifier 2014– CE–024–AD. (a) Comments Due Date We must receive comments by November 21, 2014. (b) Affected ADs None. (c) Applicability This AD applies to PILATUS Aircraft Ltd. Model PC–7 airplanes, manufacturer serial numbers (MSN) 101 through MSN 618, certificated in any category. (d) Subject Air Transport Association of America (ATA) Code 51: Standard Practices/ Structures. (e) Reason This AD was prompted by mandatory continuing airworthiness information (MCAI) originated by an aviation authority of another country to identify and correct an unsafe condition on an aviation product. The MCAI describes the unsafe condition as possible cracking from stress corrosion on various parts of the aircraft structure made of aluminum alloy AA2024–T351. We are issuing this proposed AD to detect and correct stress corrosion cracks that may occur on various parts of the airplane structure initially made of aluminum alloy AA2024– T351, which is susceptible to stress corrosion cracking (SCC). Such a condition, if left uncorrected, could lead to failure of critical parts on the airplane structure and weaken the structural integrity of the aircraft. (f) Actions and Compliance Unless already done, within the next 12 months after the effective date of this AD, perform a one-time conductivity test of items 6 through 9 and 11 through 13 as listed in paragraph 1.A.(2) of PILATUS PC–7 Service Bulletin No: 51–001, Revision No. 1, dated August 26, 2014, to check the material of the parts—determine whether they are made of aluminum alloy AA2124–T851 or aluminum alloy AA2024–T351. Do not install any item E:\FR\FM\07OCP1.SGM 07OCP1 asabaliauskas on DSK5VPTVN1PROD with RULES Federal Register / Vol. 79, No. 194 / Tuesday, October 7, 2014 / Proposed Rules unless it has been inspected following the applicable paragraph of PILATUS PC–7 Service Bulletin No: 51–001, Revision No. 1, dated August 26, 2014. (1) For airplanes with any parts made of aluminum alloy AA2124–T851: Within 12 months after the effective date of this AD, make an entry in the aircraft logbook as required by paragraph 3.D.(3) of PILATUS PC–7 Service Bulletin No: 51–001, Revision No. 1, dated August 26, 2014. The only other actions of this AD that apply to airplanes with all parts made of aluminum alloy AA2124–T851 are the actions in paragraphs (f)(3), (f)(4), and (f)(5) of this AD. (2) For airplanes with any parts made of aluminum alloy AA2024–T351: Within 12 months after the effective date of this AD, do the actions in paragraphs (f)(2)(i) through (f)(2)(iii) as applicable, including all subparagraphs: (i) For items 7 through 9 and 11 through 13 as listed in paragraph 1.A.(2) of PILATUS PC–7 Service Bulletin No: 51–001, Revision No. 1, dated August 26, 2014, within 12 months after the effective date of this AD, do a one-time inspection for cracks. If any cracks are found as a result of the inspection, before further flight, you must contact PILATUS Aircraft Ltd. to obtain FAA-approved repair instructions approved specifically for compliance with this AD and incorporate those instructions. Use the contact information found in paragraph (h) of this AD. (ii) For item 6 as listed in paragraph 1.A.(2) of PILATUS PC–7 Service Bulletin No: 51– 001, Revision No. 1, dated August 26, 2014, within 12 months after the effective date of this AD, replace with a part made of aluminum alloy AA2124–T851. (iii) For Items 1, 2, 4, 5, and 10 as listed in paragraph 1.A.(2) of PILATUS PC–7 Service Bulletin No: 51–001, Revision No. 1, dated August 26, 2014, within 12 months after the effective date of this AD, do the following actions in paragraphs (f)(2)(iii)(A) and (f)(2)(iii)(B), as applicable. (A) For items 1, 2, 4, and 10 as listed in paragraph 1.A.(2) of PILATUS PC–7 Service Bulletin No: 51–001, Revision No. 1, dated August 26, 2014, do a one-time inspection for cracks. If any cracks are found, before further flight, you must contact PILATUS Aircraft Ltd. to obtain FAA-approved repair instructions approved specifically for compliance with this AD and incorporate those instructions. Use the contact information found in paragraph (h) of this AD. (B) For item 5 as listed in paragraph 1.A.(2) of PILATUS PC–7 Service Bulletin No: 51– 001, Revision No. 1, dated August 26, 2014, replace with a part made of aluminum alloy AA2124–T851. (3) For all airplanes: For item 3 as listed in paragraph 1.A.(2) of PILATUS PC–7 Service Bulletin No: 51–001, Revision No. 1, dated August 26, 2014, within 12 months after the effective date of this AD, replace with a part made of aluminum alloy AA2124–T851. You must replace the elevator center control-rods (item 3 as listed in paragraph 1.A.(2) of PILATUS PC–7 Service Bulletin No: 51–001, Revision No. 1, dated August 26, 2014) because it is difficult to inspect them for cracks. VerDate Sep<11>2014 16:15 Oct 06, 2014 Jkt 235001 (4) For all airplanes: As of 12 months after the effective date of this AD, do not install the parts listed in items 1 and 2, 4, and 7 through 13 of paragraph 1.A.(2) of PILATUS PC–7 Service Bulletin No: 51–001, Revision No. 1, dated August 26, 2014, that are made of aluminum alloy AA2024–T351 unless they have been inspected and found free of cracks. (5) For all airplanes: As of 12 months after the effective date of this AD, do not install the parts listed in items 3, 5, and 6 of paragraph 1.A.(2) of PILATUS PC–7 Service Bulletin No: 51–001, Revision No. 1, dated August 26, 2014, that are made of aluminum alloy AA2024–T351. (g) Other FAA AD Provisions The following provisions also apply to this AD: (1) Alternative Methods of Compliance (AMOCs): The Manager, Standards Office, FAA, has the authority to approve AMOCs for this AD, if requested using the procedures found in 14 CFR 39.19. Send information to ATTN: Doug Rudolph, Aerospace Engineer, FAA, Small Airplane Directorate, 901 Locust, Room 301, Kansas City, Missouri 64106; telephone: (816) 329–4059; fax: (816) 329– 4090; email: doug.rudolph@faa.gov. Before using any approved AMOC on any airplane to which the AMOC applies, notify your appropriate principal inspector (PI) in the FAA Flight Standards District Office (FSDO), or lacking a PI, your local FSDO. (2) Airworthy Product: For any requirement in this AD to obtain corrective actions from a manufacturer or other source, use these actions if they are FAA-approved. Corrective actions are considered FAA-approved if they are approved by the State of Design Authority (or their delegated agent). You are required to assure the product is airworthy before it is returned to service. (3) Reporting Requirements: For any reporting requirement in this AD, a federal agency may not conduct or sponsor, and a person is not required to respond to, nor shall a person be subject to a penalty for failure to comply with a collection of information subject to the requirements of the Paperwork Reduction Act unless that collection of information displays a current valid OMB Control Number. The OMB Control Number for this information collection is 2120–0056. Public reporting for this collection of information is estimated to be approximately 5 minutes per response, including the time for reviewing instructions, completing and reviewing the collection of information. All responses to this collection of information are mandatory. Comments concerning the accuracy of this burden and suggestions for reducing the burden should be directed to the FAA at: 800 Independence Ave. SW., Washington, DC 20591, Attn: Information Collection Clearance Officer, AES–200. (h) Related Information Refer to Federal Office of Civil Aviation (FOCA) AD HB–2014–001, dated July 25, 2014, for related information. You may examine the MCAI on the Internet at https://www.regulations.gov by searching for and locating Docket No. FAA–2014–0770. For service information related to this AD, PO 00000 Frm 00009 Fmt 4702 Sfmt 4702 60391 contact PILATUS AIRCRAFT LTD., Customer Technical Support (MCC), P.O. Box 992, CH– 6371 Stans, Switzerland; phone: +41 (0)41 619 67 74; fax: +41 (0)41 619 67 73; email: Techsupport@pilatus-aircraft.com; Internet: https://www.pilatus-aircraft.com. You may review this referenced service information at the FAA, Small Airplane Directorate, 901 Locust, Kansas City, Missouri 64106. For information on the availability of this material at the FAA, call (816) 329–4148. Issued in Kansas City, Missouri, on September 30, 2014. Earl Lawrence, Manager, Small Airplane Directorate, Aircraft Certification Service. [FR Doc. 2014–23880 Filed 10–6–14; 8:45 am] BILLING CODE 4910–13–P DEPARTMENT OF JUSTICE Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives 27 CFR Parts 478, 555, and 771 [Docket No. ATF 33P; AG Order No. 3469– 2014] RIN 1140–AA40 Rules of Practice in Explosives License and Permit Proceedings (2007R–5P); Revisions Reflecting Changes Consistent With the Homeland Security Act of 2002 Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives (ATF), Department of Justice. ACTION: Notice of proposed rulemaking. AGENCY: The Department of Justice proposes to codify the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives (ATF) procedures and practices in connection with the disapproval of initial applications, denials of renewal, and revocations of explosives licenses or permits. The proposed regulations will be codified in a new part entitled ‘‘Rules and Practice in License and Permit Proceedings.’’ The proposed regulations are based upon the regulations that ATF relied upon prior to its transfer from the Department of the Treasury to the Department of Justice. Additionally, the Department proposes minor revisions to regulations governing administrative proceedings related to the denial, suspension, or revocation of a license, and the imposition of a civil fine under Federal firearms law to reference regulations under ATF authority. These proposed revisions remove all references to statutes, regulations, positions, and other terms that are applicable only to the Department of the Treasury. These SUMMARY: E:\FR\FM\07OCP1.SGM 07OCP1

Agencies

[Federal Register Volume 79, Number 194 (Tuesday, October 7, 2014)]
[Proposed Rules]
[Pages 60389-60391]
From the Federal Register Online via the Government Printing Office [www.gpo.gov]
[FR Doc No: 2014-23880]


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DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION

Federal Aviation Administration

14 CFR Part 39

[Docket No. FAA-2014-0770; Directorate Identifier 2014-CE-024-AD]
RIN 2120-AA64


Airworthiness Directives; PILATUS Aircraft Ltd. Airplanes

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

ACTION: Notice of proposed rulemaking (NPRM).

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

SUMMARY: We propose to adopt a new airworthiness directive (AD) for 
PILATUS Aircraft Ltd. Model PC-7 airplanes. This proposed AD results 
from mandatory continuing airworthiness information (MCAI) originated 
by an aviation authority of another country to identify and correct an 
unsafe condition on an aviation product. The MCAI describes the unsafe 
condition as possible cracking from stress corrosion on various parts 
of the aircraft structure made of aluminum alloy AA2024-T351. We are 
issuing this proposed AD to require actions to address the unsafe 
condition on these products.

DATES: We must receive comments on this proposed AD by November 21, 
2014.

ADDRESSES: You may send comments by any of the following methods:
     Federal eRulemaking Portal: Go to https://www.regulations.gov. Follow the instructions for submitting comments.
     Fax: (202) 493-2251.
     Mail: U.S. Department of Transportation, Docket 
Operations, M-30, West Building Ground Floor, Room W12-140, 1200 New 
Jersey Avenue SE., Washington, DC 20590.
     Hand Delivery: U.S. Department of Transportation, Docket 
Operations, M-30, West Building Ground Floor, Room W12-140, 1200 New 
Jersey Avenue SE., Washington, DC 20590, between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m., 
Monday through Friday, except Federal holidays.
    For service information identified in this proposed AD, contact 
PILATUS AIRCRAFT LTD., Customer Technical Support (MCC), P.O. Box 992, 
CH-6371 Stans, Switzerland; phone: +41 (0)41 619 67 74; fax: +41 (0)41 
619 67 73; email: aircraft.com">Techsupport@pilatus-aircraft.com; internet: https://
www.pilatus-aircraft.com. You may review this referenced service 
information at the FAA, Small Airplane Directorate, 901 Locust, Kansas 
City, Missouri 64106. For information on the availability of this 
material at the FAA, call (816) 329-4148.

Examining the AD Docket

    You may examine the AD docket on the Internet at https://www.regulations.gov by searching for and locating Docket No. FAA-2014-
0770; or in person at the Docket Management Facility between 9 a.m. and 
5 p.m., Monday through Friday, except Federal holidays. The AD docket 
contains this proposed AD, the regulatory evaluation, any comments 
received, and other information. The street address for the Docket 
Office (telephone (800) 647-5527) is in the ADDRESSES section. Comments 
will be available in the AD docket shortly after receipt.

FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Doug Rudolph, Aerospace Engineer, FAA, 
Small Airplane Directorate, 901 Locust, Room 301, Kansas City, Missouri 
64106; telephone: (816) 329-4059; fax: (816) 329-4090; email: 
doug.rudolph@faa.gov.

SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: 

Comments Invited

    We invite you to send any written relevant data, views, or 
arguments about this proposed AD. Send your comments to an address 
listed under the ADDRESSES section. Include ``Docket No. FAA-2014-0770; 
Directorate Identifier 2014-CE-024-AD'' at the beginning of your 
comments. We specifically invite comments on the overall regulatory, 
economic, environmental, and energy aspects of this proposed AD. We 
will consider all comments received by the closing date and may amend 
this proposed AD because of those comments.
    We will post all comments we receive, without change, to https://regulations.gov, including any personal information you provide. We 
will also post a report summarizing each substantive verbal contact we 
receive about this proposed AD.

Discussion

    The Federal Office of Civil Aviation (FOCA), which is the aviation 
authority for Switzerland, has issued AD HB-2014-001, dated July 25, 
2014 (referred to after this as ``the MCAI''), to correct an unsafe 
condition for PILATUS Aircraft Ltd. Model PC-7 airplanes and was based 
on mandatory continuing airworthiness information originated by an 
aviation authority of another country. The MCAI states:

    This Airworthiness Directive (AD) is prompted due to the 
possibility of cracks in

[[Page 60390]]

some critical parts. It is possible that stress corrosion cracks may 
occur on various parts of the aircraft structure initially made of 
aluminium alloy AA2024-T351 which is susceptible to Stress Corrosion 
Cracking (SCC). Later in production, the material specification was 
changed to aluminium alloy AA2124-T851 to decrease the risk of 
stress corrosion. The Part Number (P/N) of the affected structural 
parts are not always changed when the new material was introduced.
    Such a condition, if left uncorrected, could lead to failure of 
critical parts on the aircraft structure and will prejudice the 
structural integrity of the aircraft.
    In order to correct and control the situation, this AD requires 
a one-time check to identify the material specification and inspect 
the affected areas of the airframe that are made of aluminium alloy 
AA2024-T351. Any structural parts of the aircraft structure found to 
be cracked must be reported to Pilatus prior to further flight.

    The MCAI also requires replacement of the elevator center control-
rod, P/N 116.35.07.271 or 116.35.07.345; and shackle, P/N 
116.35.07.183. You may examine the MCAI on the Internet at https://www.regulations.gov by searching for and locating Docket No. FAA-2014-
0770.

Relevant Service Information

    PILATUS Aircraft Ltd. has issued PILATUS PC-7 Service Bulletin No: 
51-001, Revision No. 1, dated August 26, 2014. The actions described in 
this service information are intended to correct the unsafe condition 
identified in the MCAI. PILATUS PC-7 Service Bulletin No: 51-001 was 
revised to Revision No. 1 after the issuance of the MCAI.

FAA's Determination and Requirements of the Proposed AD

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

Costs of Compliance

    We estimate that this proposed AD will affect 10 products of U.S. 
registry. We also estimate that it would take about 30 work-hours per 
product to comply with the basic requirements of this proposed AD. The 
average labor rate is $85 per work-hour. Required parts would cost 
about $4,700 per product.
    Based on these figures, we estimate the cost of the proposed AD on 
U.S. operators to be $72,500, or $7,250 per product.
    In addition, we estimate that any necessary follow-on actions would 
take about 14 work-hours and require parts costing $10,000, for a cost 
of $11,190 per product. We have no way of determining the number of 
products that may need these actions.

Authority for This Rulemaking

    Title 49 of the United States Code specifies the FAA's authority to 
issue rules on aviation safety. Subtitle I, section 106, describes the 
authority of the FAA Administrator. ``Subtitle VII: Aviation 
Programs,'' describes in more detail the scope of the Agency's 
authority.
    We are issuing this rulemaking under the authority described in 
``Subtitle VII, Part A, Subpart III, Section 44701: General 
requirements.'' Under that section, Congress charges the FAA with 
promoting safe flight of civil aircraft in air commerce by prescribing 
regulations for practices, methods, and procedures the Administrator 
finds necessary for safety in air commerce. This regulation is within 
the scope of that authority because it addresses an unsafe condition 
that is likely to exist or develop on products identified in this 
rulemaking action.

Regulatory Findings

    We determined that this proposed AD would not have federalism 
implications under Executive Order 13132. This proposed AD would not 
have a substantial direct effect on the States, on the relationship 
between the national Government and the States, or on the distribution 
of power and responsibilities among the various levels of government.
    For the reasons discussed above, I certify this proposed 
regulation:
    (1) Is not a ``significant regulatory action'' under Executive 
Order 12866,
    (2) Is not a ``significant rule'' under the DOT Regulatory Policies 
and Procedures (44 FR 11034, February 26, 1979),
    (3) Will not affect intrastate aviation in Alaska, and
    (4) Will not have a significant economic impact, positive or 
negative, on a substantial number of small entities under the criteria 
of the Regulatory Flexibility Act.

List of Subjects in 14 CFR Part 39

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

The Proposed Amendment

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

PART 39--AIRWORTHINESS DIRECTIVES

0
1. The authority citation for part 39 continues to read as follows:

    Authority:  49 U.S.C. 106(g), 40113, 44701.


Sec.  39.13  [Amended]

0
2. The FAA amends Sec.  39.13 by adding the following new AD:

PILATUS Aircraft Ltd.: Docket No. FAA-2014-0770; Directorate 
Identifier 2014-CE-024-AD.

(a) Comments Due Date

    We must receive comments by November 21, 2014.

(b) Affected ADs

    None.

(c) Applicability

    This AD applies to PILATUS Aircraft Ltd. Model PC-7 airplanes, 
manufacturer serial numbers (MSN) 101 through MSN 618, certificated 
in any category.

(d) Subject

    Air Transport Association of America (ATA) Code 51: Standard 
Practices/Structures.

(e) Reason

    This AD was prompted by mandatory continuing airworthiness 
information (MCAI) originated by an aviation authority of another 
country to identify and correct an unsafe condition on an aviation 
product. The MCAI describes the unsafe condition as possible 
cracking from stress corrosion on various parts of the aircraft 
structure made of aluminum alloy AA2024-T351. We are issuing this 
proposed AD to detect and correct stress corrosion cracks that may 
occur on various parts of the airplane structure initially made of 
aluminum alloy AA2024-T351, which is susceptible to stress corrosion 
cracking (SCC). Such a condition, if left uncorrected, could lead to 
failure of critical parts on the airplane structure and weaken the 
structural integrity of the aircraft.

(f) Actions and Compliance

    Unless already done, within the next 12 months after the 
effective date of this AD, perform a one-time conductivity test of 
items 6 through 9 and 11 through 13 as listed in paragraph 1.A.(2) 
of PILATUS PC-7 Service Bulletin No: 51-001, Revision No. 1, dated 
August 26, 2014, to check the material of the parts--determine 
whether they are made of aluminum alloy AA2124-T851 or aluminum 
alloy AA2024-T351. Do not install any item

[[Page 60391]]

unless it has been inspected following the applicable paragraph of 
PILATUS PC-7 Service Bulletin No: 51-001, Revision No. 1, dated 
August 26, 2014.
    (1) For airplanes with any parts made of aluminum alloy AA2124-
T851: Within 12 months after the effective date of this AD, make an 
entry in the aircraft logbook as required by paragraph 3.D.(3) of 
PILATUS PC-7 Service Bulletin No: 51-001, Revision No. 1, dated 
August 26, 2014. The only other actions of this AD that apply to 
airplanes with all parts made of aluminum alloy AA2124-T851 are the 
actions in paragraphs (f)(3), (f)(4), and (f)(5) of this AD.
    (2) For airplanes with any parts made of aluminum alloy AA2024-
T351: Within 12 months after the effective date of this AD, do the 
actions in paragraphs (f)(2)(i) through (f)(2)(iii) as applicable, 
including all subparagraphs:
    (i) For items 7 through 9 and 11 through 13 as listed in 
paragraph 1.A.(2) of PILATUS PC-7 Service Bulletin No: 51-001, 
Revision No. 1, dated August 26, 2014, within 12 months after the 
effective date of this AD, do a one-time inspection for cracks. If 
any cracks are found as a result of the inspection, before further 
flight, you must contact PILATUS Aircraft Ltd. to obtain FAA-
approved repair instructions approved specifically for compliance 
with this AD and incorporate those instructions. Use the contact 
information found in paragraph (h) of this AD.
    (ii) For item 6 as listed in paragraph 1.A.(2) of PILATUS PC-7 
Service Bulletin No: 51-001, Revision No. 1, dated August 26, 2014, 
within 12 months after the effective date of this AD, replace with a 
part made of aluminum alloy AA2124-T851.
    (iii) For Items 1, 2, 4, 5, and 10 as listed in paragraph 
1.A.(2) of PILATUS PC-7 Service Bulletin No: 51-001, Revision No. 1, 
dated August 26, 2014, within 12 months after the effective date of 
this AD, do the following actions in paragraphs (f)(2)(iii)(A) and 
(f)(2)(iii)(B), as applicable.
    (A) For items 1, 2, 4, and 10 as listed in paragraph 1.A.(2) of 
PILATUS PC-7 Service Bulletin No: 51-001, Revision No. 1, dated 
August 26, 2014, do a one-time inspection for cracks. If any cracks 
are found, before further flight, you must contact PILATUS Aircraft 
Ltd. to obtain FAA-approved repair instructions approved 
specifically for compliance with this AD and incorporate those 
instructions. Use the contact information found in paragraph (h) of 
this AD.
    (B) For item 5 as listed in paragraph 1.A.(2) of PILATUS PC-7 
Service Bulletin No: 51-001, Revision No. 1, dated August 26, 2014, 
replace with a part made of aluminum alloy AA2124-T851.
    (3) For all airplanes: For item 3 as listed in paragraph 1.A.(2) 
of PILATUS PC-7 Service Bulletin No: 51-001, Revision No. 1, dated 
August 26, 2014, within 12 months after the effective date of this 
AD, replace with a part made of aluminum alloy AA2124-T851. You must 
replace the elevator center control-rods (item 3 as listed in 
paragraph 1.A.(2) of PILATUS PC-7 Service Bulletin No: 51-001, 
Revision No. 1, dated August 26, 2014) because it is difficult to 
inspect them for cracks.
    (4) For all airplanes: As of 12 months after the effective date 
of this AD, do not install the parts listed in items 1 and 2, 4, and 
7 through 13 of paragraph 1.A.(2) of PILATUS PC-7 Service Bulletin 
No: 51-001, Revision No. 1, dated August 26, 2014, that are made of 
aluminum alloy AA2024-T351 unless they have been inspected and found 
free of cracks.
    (5) For all airplanes: As of 12 months after the effective date 
of this AD, do not install the parts listed in items 3, 5, and 6 of 
paragraph 1.A.(2) of PILATUS PC-7 Service Bulletin No: 51-001, 
Revision No. 1, dated August 26, 2014, that are made of aluminum 
alloy AA2024-T351.

(g) Other FAA AD Provisions

    The following provisions also apply to this AD:
    (1) Alternative Methods of Compliance (AMOCs): The Manager, 
Standards Office, FAA, has the authority to approve AMOCs for this 
AD, if requested using the procedures found in 14 CFR 39.19. Send 
information to ATTN: Doug Rudolph, Aerospace Engineer, FAA, Small 
Airplane Directorate, 901 Locust, Room 301, Kansas City, Missouri 
64106; telephone: (816) 329-4059; fax: (816) 329-4090; email: 
doug.rudolph@faa.gov. Before using any approved AMOC on any airplane 
to which the AMOC applies, notify your appropriate principal 
inspector (PI) in the FAA Flight Standards District Office (FSDO), 
or lacking a PI, your local FSDO.
    (2) Airworthy Product: For any requirement in this AD to obtain 
corrective actions from a manufacturer or other source, use these 
actions if they are FAA-approved. Corrective actions are considered 
FAA-approved if they are approved by the State of Design Authority 
(or their delegated agent). You are required to assure the product 
is airworthy before it is returned to service.
    (3) Reporting Requirements: For any reporting requirement in 
this AD, a federal agency may not conduct or sponsor, and a person 
is not required to respond to, nor shall a person be subject to a 
penalty for failure to comply with a collection of information 
subject to the requirements of the Paperwork Reduction Act unless 
that collection of information displays a current valid OMB Control 
Number. The OMB Control Number for this information collection is 
2120-0056. Public reporting for this collection of information is 
estimated to be approximately 5 minutes per response, including the 
time for reviewing instructions, completing and reviewing the 
collection of information. All responses to this collection of 
information are mandatory. Comments concerning the accuracy of this 
burden and suggestions for reducing the burden should be directed to 
the FAA at: 800 Independence Ave. SW., Washington, DC 20591, Attn: 
Information Collection Clearance Officer, AES-200.

(h) Related Information

    Refer to Federal Office of Civil Aviation (FOCA) AD HB-2014-001, 
dated July 25, 2014, for related information. You may examine the 
MCAI on the Internet at https://www.regulations.gov by searching for 
and locating Docket No. FAA-2014-0770. For service information 
related to this AD, contact PILATUS AIRCRAFT LTD., Customer 
Technical Support (MCC), P.O. Box 992, CH-6371 Stans, Switzerland; 
phone: +41 (0)41 619 67 74; fax: +41 (0)41 619 67 73; email: 
aircraft.com">Techsupport@pilatus-aircraft.com; Internet: https://www.pilatus-
aircraft.com. You may review this referenced service information at 
the FAA, Small Airplane Directorate, 901 Locust, Kansas City, 
Missouri 64106. For information on the availability of this material 
at the FAA, call (816) 329-4148.

    Issued in Kansas City, Missouri, on September 30, 2014.
Earl Lawrence,
Manager, Small Airplane Directorate, Aircraft Certification Service.
[FR Doc. 2014-23880 Filed 10-6-14; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE 4910-13-P
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