Airworthiness Directives; GROB-WERKE Airplanes, 10423-10426 [2015-03979]

Download as PDF 10423 Federal Register / Vol. 80, No. 38 / Thursday, February 26, 2015 / Proposed Rules rmajette on DSK2VPTVN1PROD with PROPOSALS incorporates a low, swept-wing design with winglets and a T-tail. The airplanes have two aft-fuselage-mounted Pratt & Whitney turbofan engines. Avionics include four primary display units and multiple touchscreen controllers. The flight-control system is a three-axis, flyby-wire system using active control/ coupled side sticks. The GVII–G500 has a wingspan of 87 ft and a length of 91 ft. Maximum takeoff weight is 76,850 lbs. Maximum takeoff thrust is 15,135 lbs, maximum range is 5,000 nautical miles (nm), and maximum operating altitude is 51,000 ft. The Model GVII series airplanes are equipped with two side-stick controllers instead of the conventional control columns and wheels. This side-stick controller is designed for one-hand operation. The requirement of Title 14, Code of Federal Regulations (14 CFR) 25.397(c), which defines limit pilot forces and torques for conventional wheel or stick controls, is not adequate for a side-stick controller. Special conditions are necessary to specify the appropriate loading conditions for this controller design. Type-Certification Basis Under 14 CFR 21.17, Gulfstream must show that the Model GVII–G500 airplanes meet the applicable provisions of 14 CFR part 25, as amended by Amendments 25–1 through 25–137. The certification of the GVII–G500 airplane is 14 CFR part 25, effective February 1, 1965, including Amendments 25–1 through 25–137; 14 CFR part 34, as amended by Amendments 34–1 through the most current amendment at the time of design approval; and 14 CFR part 36, Amendment 36–29. In addition, the certification basis includes special conditions and equivalent-safety findings related to the flight-control system. If the Administrator finds that the applicable airworthiness regulations (i.e., 14 CFR part 25) do not contain adequate or appropriate safety standards for the Model GVII series airplanes because of a novel or unusual design feature, special conditions are prescribed under § 21.16. Special conditions are initially applicable to the model for which they are issued. Should the type certificate for that model be amended later to include any other model that incorporates the same novel or unusual design feature, these special conditions would also apply to the other model under § 21.101. In addition to the applicable airworthiness regulations and proposed VerDate Sep<11>2014 14:42 Feb 25, 2015 Jkt 235001 special conditions, the Model GVII series airplanes must comply with the fuel-vent and exhaust-emission requirements of 14 CFR part 34, and the noise certification requirements of 14 CFR part 36. The FAA must issue a finding of regulatory adequacy under § 611 of Public Law 92–574, the ‘‘Noise Control Act of 1972.’’ The FAA issues special conditions, as defined in 14 CFR 11.19, under § 11.38, and they become part of the typecertification basis under § 21.17(a)(2) for new type certificates, and § 21.101 for amended type certificates. The Proposed Special Conditions Accordingly, the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) proposes the following special conditions in lieu of § 25.397(c): For the Gulfstream Model GVII series airplanes equipped with side-stick controls designed for forces to be applied by one wrist and not arms, the limit pilot forces are as follows. 1. For all components between and including the side-stick controlassembly handle and its control stops: Novel or Unusual Design Features Nose up, 200 lbf ....... Nose down, 200 lbf ... The Gulfstream Model GVII series airplanes will incorporate the following novel or unusual design feature: A side-stick controller for one-hand operation requiring wrist motion only, not arms. Discussion Current regulations reference piloteffort loads for the flight deck pitch-androll controls that are based on twohanded effort. Special conditions are being proposed for Gulfstream GVII series airplanes based on similar airplane programs that include sidestick controllers. These proposed special conditions are also appropriate for the Model GVII series airplane’s side-stick controller. These proposed special conditions contain the additional safety standards that the Administrator considers necessary to establish a level of safety equivalent to that established by the existing airworthiness standards. Applicability As discussed above, these proposed special conditions apply to Gulfstream Model GVII series airplanes. Should Gulfstream apply later for a change to the type certificate to include another model incorporating the same novel or unusual design feature, these proposed special conditions would apply to that model as well. Conclusion This action affects only certain novel or unusual design features on the Gulfstream Model GVII series airplanes. It is not a rule of general applicability. List of Subjects in 14 CFR part 25 Aircraft, Aviation safety, Reporting and recordkeeping requirements. The authority citation for these proposed special conditions is as follows: Authority: 49 U.S.C. 106(g), 40113, 44701, 44702, 44704. PO 00000 Frm 00026 Fmt 4702 Sfmt 4702 Pitch Roll Nose left, 100 lbf. Nose right, 100 lbf. 2. For all other components of the side-stick control assembly, but excluding the internal components of the electrical sensor assemblies, to avoid damage to the control system as the result of an in-flight jam: Pitch Nose up, 125 lbf ....... Nose down, 125 lbf ... Roll Nose left, 50 lbf. Nose right, 50 lbf. Issued in Renton, Washington, on February 19, 2015. John J. Piccola, Jr., Acting Manager, Transport Airplane Directorate, Aircraft Certification Service. [FR Doc. 2015–03968 Filed 2–25–15; 8:45 am] BILLING CODE 4910–13–P DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION Federal Aviation Administration 14 CFR Part 39 [Docket No. FAA–2015–0415; Directorate Identifier 2015–CE–001–AD] RIN 2120–AA64 Airworthiness Directives; GROB– WERKE Airplanes 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 certain GROB–WERKE Models G115EG and G120A airplanes that would supersede AD 2014–26–04. 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 SUMMARY: E:\FR\FM\26FEP1.SGM 26FEP1 10424 Federal Register / Vol. 80, No. 38 / Thursday, February 26, 2015 / Proposed Rules condition as a defective starter solenoid. We are issuing this proposed AD to require actions to address the unsafe condition on these products. We must receive comments on this proposed AD by April 13, 2015. DATES: 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 Grob Aircraft AG, Customer Service, Lettenbachstrasse 9, D–86874 Tussenhausen-Mattsies, Germany, telephone: + 49 (0) 8268–998–105; fax: + 49 (0) 8268–998–200; email: productsupport@grob-aircraft.com; Internet: grob-aircraft.com. You may review copies of the referenced service information at the FAA, Small Airplane Directorate, 901 Locust, Kansas City, Missouri 64106. For information on the availability of this material at the FAA, call (816) 329–4148. ADDRESSES: Examining the AD Docket rmajette on DSK2VPTVN1PROD with PROPOSALS You may examine the AD docket on the Internet at https:// www.regulations.gov by searching for and locating Docket No. FAA–2015– 0415; 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. Karl Schletzbaum, Aerospace Engineer, FAA, Small Airplane Directorate, 901 Locust, Room 301, Kansas City, Missouri 64106; telephone: (816) 329–4123; fax: (816) 329–4090; email: karl.schletzbaum@ faa.gov. FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: VerDate Sep<11>2014 14:42 Feb 25, 2015 Jkt 235001 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–2015–0415; Directorate Identifier 2015–CE–001–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 On December 22, 2014, we issued AD 2014–26–04, Amendment 39–18055 (80 FR 155, January 5, 2015). That AD required actions intended to address an unsafe condition on certain GROB– WERKE Models G115EG and G120A airplanes and was based on mandatory continuing airworthiness information (MCAI) originated by an aviation authority of another country. AD 2014–26–04, Amendment 39– 18055 (80 FR 155, January 5, 2015), was considered an interim action. Since we issued AD 2014–26–04, GROB Aircraft developed a modification to avoid loss of electrical power in case of electrical shortage in the starter solenoid. European Aviation Safety Agency (EASA), which is the Technical Agent for the Member States of the European Community, has issued AD No. 2015– 0010R1, dated February 4, 2015 (referred to after this as ‘‘the MCAI’’), to correct an unsafe condition for the specified products. The MCAI states: An operator of a G 115E aeroplane experienced a total loss of electrical power in flight. The investigation found that a defective starter solenoid had caused an internal short circuit which resulted in breakdown of the system voltage. This condition, if not detected and corrected, could result in reduced control of the aeroplane. To address this potential unsafe condition, GROB Aircraft AG issued Mandatory Service Bulletin (MSB) MSB1078–196 for G 115 aeroplanes and MSB 1121–144 for G 120 aeroplanes to provide instructions for inspection and corrective action. Consequently, EASA issued AD 2014–0212 to require a one-time inspection of the starter solenoid and, depending on findings, replacement of the starter. In addition, for G PO 00000 Frm 00027 Fmt 4702 Sfmt 4702 115E aeroplanes, installation of a placard was required. More recently, GROB Aircraft AG developed a modification to avoid loss of electrical power in case of electrical shortage in the starter solenoid, which was published in revised GROB MSB1078–196/1 and MSB1121–144/1. Prompted by this development, EASA issued AD 2015–0010, retaining the requirements of EASA AD 2014–0212, which was superseded, and required installation of a starter relay. Since that AD was issued, operator comments have indicated the existence of a logistical problem, resulting in the unnecessary grounding of aeroplanes. For the reason described above, this AD is revised to amend paragraph (3), extending the compliance time for modification. You may examine the MCAI on the Internet at https://www.regulations.gov by searching for and locating Docket No. FAA–2015–0415. Relevant Service Information Under 1 CFR Part 51 GROB Aircraft has issued Service Bulletin No. MSB1078–196/1, dated December 1, 2014, and Service Bulletin No. MSB1121–144/3, dated February 20, 2015. The actions described in this service information are intended to correct the unsafe condition identified in the MCAI. The GROB Aircraft service bulletins describe procedures for inspecting the starter solenoid, replacing damaged starters, and installing a starter relay. This service information is reasonably available; see ADDRESSES for ways to access this service information. 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 6 products of U.S. registry. We also estimate that it would take about 4 work-hours per product to comply with the basic starter inspection requirement of this proposed AD. The average labor rate is $85 per work-hour. Based on these figures, we estimate the cost of this proposed inspection on E:\FR\FM\26FEP1.SGM 26FEP1 Federal Register / Vol. 80, No. 38 / Thursday, February 26, 2015 / Proposed Rules U.S. operators to be $2,040, or $340 per product. In addition, we estimate that any necessary starter replacements would take about 4 work-hours and require parts costing $600, for a cost of $940 per product. We have no way of determining the number of products that may need this replacement. We also estimate that it would take about 20 work-hours per product to comply with the starter relay installation requirement of this proposed AD. The average labor rate is $85 per work-hour. Required parts would cost about $1,000 per product. Based on these figures, we estimate the cost of this proposed installation on U.S. operators to be $16,200, or $2,700 per product rmajette on DSK2VPTVN1PROD with PROPOSALS 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, VerDate Sep<11>2014 14:42 Feb 25, 2015 Jkt 235001 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 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 removing Amendment 39–18055 (80 FR 155, January 5, 2015), and adding the following new AD: ■ GROB–WERKE: Docket No. FAA–2015–0415; Directorate Identifier 2015–CE–001–AD. (a) Comments Due Date We must receive comments by April 13, 2015. (b) Affected ADs This AD supersedes AD 2014–26–04, Amendment 39–18055 (80 FR 155, January 5, 2015) (‘‘AD 2014–26–04’’). (c) Applicability This AD applies to GROB–WERKE Model G115EG airplanes, all serial numbers through 82323/E, and Model G120A airplanes, all serial numbers through 85063, certificated in any category. (d) Subject Air Transport Association of America (ATA) Code 80: Starting. (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. We are issuing this AD to detect and correct defective starter solenoids, which could cause an internal short circuit and could result in reduced control. We are superseding AD 2014–26–04 requiring installation of a starter relay that will prevent loss of electrical power in case of electrical shortage in the starter solenoid. (f) Actions and Compliance Unless already done, do the actions in paragraphs (f)(1) through (f)(3) of this AD: (1) Within the next 30 days after February 9, 2015 (the effective date retained from AD 2014–26–04), inspect the starter following Part A of the Accomplishment Instructions in GROB Aircraft Service Bulletin No. MSB1078–196, dated July 14, 2014; GROB PO 00000 Frm 00028 Fmt 4702 Sfmt 4702 10425 Aircraft Service Bulletin No. MSB1078–196/ 1, dated December 1, 2014; GROB Aircraft Service Bulletin No. MSB1121–144, dated July 14, 2014; GROB Aircraft Service Bulletin No. MSB1121–144/1, dated January 12, 2015; GROB Aircraft Service Bulletin No. MSB1121–144/2, dated February 5, 2015; or GROB Aircraft Service Bulletin No. MSB1121–144/3, dated February 20, 2015, as applicable. (2) If any damage is found on the starter during the inspection required in paragraph (f)(1) of this AD, before further flight, replace the starter with a serviceable part. Do the replacement following Part A of the Accomplishment Instructions in GROB Aircraft Service Bulletin No. MSB1078–196, dated July 14, 2014; GROB Aircraft Service Bulletin No. MSB1078–196/1, dated December 1, 2014; GROB Aircraft Service Bulletin No. MSB1121–144, dated July 14, 2014; GROB Aircraft Service Bulletin No. MSB1121–144/1, dated January 12, 2015; GROB Aircraft Service Bulletin No. MSB1121–144/2, dated February 5, 2015; or GROB Aircraft Service Bulletin No. MSB1121–144/3, dated February 20, 2015, as applicable. (3) Within the next 100 hours time-inservice after the effective date of this AD, install a starter relay following Part B of the Accomplishment Instructions in GROB Aircraft Service Bulletin No. MSB1078–196/ 1, dated December 1, 2014, or GROB Aircraft Service Bulletin No. MSB1121–144/3, dated February 205, 2015, as applicable. (g) Credit for Actions Done in Accordance With Previous Service Information Actions done before the effective date of this AD following the Accomplishment Instructions specified in GROB Aircraft Service Bulletin No. MSB1121–144/1, dated January 12, 2015; or GROB Aircraft Service Bulletin No. MSB1121–144/2, dated February 5, 2015, as applicable, are considered acceptable for compliance with the corresponding actions specified in paragraphs (f)(1) through (f)(2) of this AD. (h) 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: Karl Schletzbaum, Aerospace Engineer, FAA, Small Airplane Directorate, 901 Locust, Room 301, Kansas City, Missouri 64106; telephone: (816) 329–4146; fax: (816) 329–4090; email: karl.schletzbaum@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. E:\FR\FM\26FEP1.SGM 26FEP1 10426 Federal Register / Vol. 80, No. 38 / Thursday, February 26, 2015 / Proposed Rules (i) Related Information Refer to MCAI European Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) AD No. 2015–0010R1, dated February 4, 2015, for related information. You may examine the MCAI on the Internet at https://www.regulations.gov by searching for and locating Docket No. FAA–2015–0415. For service information related to this AD, contact Grob Aircraft AG, Customer Service, Lettenbachstrasse 9, D–86874 TussenhausenMattsies, Germany, telephone: + 49 (0) 8268– 998–105; fax: + 49 (0) 8268–998–200; email: productsupport@grob-aircraft.com; Internet: grob-aircraft.com. You may review copies of the referenced service information at the FAA, Small Airplane Directorate, 901 Locust, Kansas City, Missouri 64106. For information on the availability of this material at the FAA, call (816) 329–4148. Issued in Kansas City, Missouri, on February 19, 2015. Pat Mullen, Acting Manager, Small Airplane Directorate, Aircraft Certification Service. [FR Doc. 2015–03979 Filed 2–25–15; 8:45 am] BILLING CODE 4910–13–P DEPARTMENT OF ENERGY Federal Energy Regulatory Commission 18 CFR Part 35 [Docket No. RM15–2–000] Third-Party Provision of Primary Frequency Response Service Federal Energy Regulatory Commission, DOE. ACTION: Notice of proposed rulemaking. AGENCY: The Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (Commission) proposes to revise its regulations to foster competition in the sale of primary frequency response service. Specifically, the Commission proposes to amend its regulations to revise the regulations governing market-based rates for public utilities pursuant to the Federal Power Act (FPA) to permit the sale of primary frequency response service at marketbased rates by sellers with market-based rate authority for energy and capacity. DATES: Comments are due April 27, 2015. SUMMARY: Comments, identified by docket number, may be filed in the following ways: • Electronic Filing through https:// www.ferc.gov. Documents created electronically using word processing software should be filed in native applications or print-to-PDF format and not in a scanned format. • Mail/Hand Delivery: Those unable to file electronically may mail or hand- rmajette on DSK2VPTVN1PROD with PROPOSALS ADDRESSES: VerDate Sep<11>2014 14:42 Feb 25, 2015 Jkt 235001 deliver comments to: Federal Energy Regulatory Commission, Secretary of the Commission, 888 First Street NE., Washington, DC 20426. Instructions: For detailed instructions on submitting comments and additional information on the rulemaking process, see the Comment Procedures Section of this document. FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Rahim Amerkhail (General Information), Federal Energy Regulatory Commission, Office of Energy Policy and Innovation, 888 First Street NE., Washington, DC 20426, (202) 502– 8266. Gregory Basheda (Market Power Screening Information), Federal Energy Regulatory Commission, Office of Energy Market Regulation, 888 First Street NE., Washington, DC 20426, (202) 502–6479. Lina Naik (Legal Information), Federal Energy Regulatory Commission, Office of the General Counsel, 888 First Street NE., Washington, DC 20426, (202) 502–8882. SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: 1. In this Notice of Proposed Rulemaking (NOPR), the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (Commission) proposes to revise its regulations to foster competition in the sale of primary frequency response service.1 Specifically, the Commission proposes to amend its regulations to revise Subpart H to Part 35 of Title 18 of the Code of Federal Regulations governing market-based rates for public utilities pursuant to the Federal Power Act (FPA) 2 to permit the sale of primary frequency response service at marketbased rates by sellers with market-based rate authority for energy and capacity. 2. This NOPR is an extension of the policy reforms the Commission started with Order No. 784,3 in which, among other things, the Commission revised Part 35 of its regulations to reflect reforms to its policy governing the sale of ancillary services at market-based rates to public utility transmission providers. As discussed in more detail below, the reforms proposed herein are in anticipation of the potential interest in purchase of primary frequency 1 As envisioned in this NOPR, primary frequency response service would be a reserve product that involves dedicating capacity on a generator or other resource for autonomous, automatic, and rapid action to change its output (within seconds) to rapidly dampen large changes in frequency. 2 16 U.S.C. 824d, 824e (2012). 3 Third-Party Provision of Ancillary Services; Accounting and Financial Reporting for New Electric Storage Technologies, Order No. 784, 78 FR 46,178 (July 30, 2013), FERC Stats. & Regs. ¶ 31,349, at PP 6–7 (2013), order on clarification, Order No. 784–A, 146 FERC ¶ 61,114 (2014). PO 00000 Frm 00029 Fmt 4702 Sfmt 4702 response service from third-parties as a result of a new reliability standard that requires a Balancing Authority to maintain a minimum frequency response obligation. I. Background 3. The Commission in Order No. 888 4 delineated two categories of ancillary services: those that the transmission provider is required to provide to all of its basic transmission customers 5 and those that the transmission provider is only required to offer to provide to transmission customers serving load in the transmission provider’s control area.6 With respect to the second category, the Commission reasoned that the transmission provider is not always uniquely qualified to provide the services, and customers may be able to more cost-effectively self-supply them or procure them from other entities. The Commission contemplated that third parties (i.e., parties other than a transmission provider supplying ancillary services pursuant to its Open Access Transmission Tariff (OATT) obligation) could provide these ancillary services on other than a cost-of-service basis if such pricing was supported, on a case-by-case basis, by analyses that demonstrated that the seller lacks market power in the relevant product market.7 4. Subsequently, in Avista,8 the Commission adopted a policy allowing 4 See Promoting Wholesale Competition Through Open Access Non-Discriminatory Transmission Services by Public Utilities; Recovery of Stranded Costs by Public Utilities and Transmitting Utilities, Order No. 888, FERC Stats. & Regs. ¶ 31,036 (1996), order on reh’g, Order No. 888–A, FERC Stats. & Regs. ¶ 31,048, order on reh’g, Order No. 888–B, 81 FERC ¶ 61,248 (1997), order on reh’g, Order No. 888–C, 82 FERC ¶ 61,046 (1998), aff’d in relevant part sub nom. Transmission Access Policy Study Group v. FERC, 225 F.3d 667 (D.C. Cir. 2000), aff’d sub nom. New York v. FERC, 535 U.S. 1 (2002). 5 The first category consists of Scheduling, System Control and Dispatch service and Reactive Supply and Voltage Control from Generation Sources service. 6 The second category consists of Regulation and Frequency Response service, Energy Imbalance service, Operating Reserve-Spinning service, and Operating Reserve-Supplemental service. Order No. 890 later added an additional ancillary service to this category: Generator Imbalance service. See Preventing Undue Discrimination and Preference in Transmission Service, Order No. 890, FERC Stats. & Regs. ¶ 31,241, at P 85, order on reh’g, Order No. 890–A, FERC Stats. & Regs. ¶ 31,261 (2007), order on reh’g, Order No. 890–B, 123 FERC ¶ 61,299 (2008), order on reh’g, Order No. 890–C, 126 FERC ¶ 61,228 (2009), order on clarification, Order No. 890–D, 129 FERC ¶ 61,126 (2009). 7 Order No. 888, FERC Stats. & Regs. ¶ 31,036 at 31,720–21. 8 Avista Corp., 87 FERC ¶ 61,223, at 61,882, order on reh’g, 89 FERC ¶ 61,136 (1999) (Avista). Outside the markets operated by regional transmission organizations and independent system operators, Avista authorizes suppliers who cannot show a lack of market power with respect to certain ancillary E:\FR\FM\26FEP1.SGM 26FEP1

Agencies

[Federal Register Volume 80, Number 38 (Thursday, February 26, 2015)]
[Proposed Rules]
[Pages 10423-10426]
From the Federal Register Online via the Government Printing Office [www.gpo.gov]
[FR Doc No: 2015-03979]


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

DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION

Federal Aviation Administration

14 CFR Part 39

[Docket No. FAA-2015-0415; Directorate Identifier 2015-CE-001-AD]
RIN 2120-AA64


Airworthiness Directives; GROB-WERKE 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 
certain GROB-WERKE Models G115EG and G120A airplanes that would 
supersede AD 2014-26-04. 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

[[Page 10424]]

condition as a defective starter solenoid. 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 April 13, 2015.

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 
Grob Aircraft AG, Customer Service, Lettenbachstrasse 9, D-86874 
Tussenhausen-Mattsies, Germany, telephone: + 49 (0) 8268-998-105; fax: 
+ 49 (0) 8268-998-200; email: aircraft.com">productsupport@grob-aircraft.com; 
Internet: grob-aircraft.com. You may review copies of the referenced 
service information at the FAA, Small Airplane Directorate, 901 Locust, 
Kansas City, Missouri 64106. For information on the availability of 
this material at the FAA, call (816) 329-4148.

Examining the AD Docket

    You may examine the AD docket on the Internet at https://www.regulations.gov by searching for and locating Docket No. FAA-2015-
0415; 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: Karl Schletzbaum, Aerospace Engineer, 
FAA, Small Airplane Directorate, 901 Locust, Room 301, Kansas City, 
Missouri 64106; telephone: (816) 329-4123; fax: (816) 329-4090; email: 
karl.schletzbaum@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-2015-0415; 
Directorate Identifier 2015-CE-001-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

    On December 22, 2014, we issued AD 2014-26-04, Amendment 39-18055 
(80 FR 155, January 5, 2015). That AD required actions intended to 
address an unsafe condition on certain GROB-WERKE Models G115EG and 
G120A airplanes and was based on mandatory continuing airworthiness 
information (MCAI) originated by an aviation authority of another 
country.
    AD 2014-26-04, Amendment 39-18055 (80 FR 155, January 5, 2015), was 
considered an interim action. Since we issued AD 2014-26-04, GROB 
Aircraft developed a modification to avoid loss of electrical power in 
case of electrical shortage in the starter solenoid.
    European Aviation Safety Agency (EASA), which is the Technical 
Agent for the Member States of the European Community, has issued AD 
No. 2015-0010R1, dated February 4, 2015 (referred to after this as 
``the MCAI''), to correct an unsafe condition for the specified 
products. The MCAI states:

    An operator of a G 115E aeroplane experienced a total loss of 
electrical power in flight. The investigation found that a defective 
starter solenoid had caused an internal short circuit which resulted 
in breakdown of the system voltage.
    This condition, if not detected and corrected, could result in 
reduced control of the aeroplane.
    To address this potential unsafe condition, GROB Aircraft AG 
issued Mandatory Service Bulletin (MSB) MSB1078-196 for G 115 
aeroplanes and MSB 1121-144 for G 120 aeroplanes to provide 
instructions for inspection and corrective action. Consequently, 
EASA issued AD 2014-0212 to require a one-time inspection of the 
starter solenoid and, depending on findings, replacement of the 
starter. In addition, for G 115E aeroplanes, installation of a 
placard was required.
    More recently, GROB Aircraft AG developed a modification to 
avoid loss of electrical power in case of electrical shortage in the 
starter solenoid, which was published in revised GROB MSB1078-196/1 
and MSB1121-144/1.
    Prompted by this development, EASA issued AD 2015-0010, 
retaining the requirements of EASA AD 2014-0212, which was 
superseded, and required installation of a starter relay.
    Since that AD was issued, operator comments have indicated the 
existence of a logistical problem, resulting in the unnecessary 
grounding of aeroplanes.
    For the reason described above, this AD is revised to amend 
paragraph (3), extending the compliance time for modification.

You may examine the MCAI on the Internet at https://www.regulations.gov 
by searching for and locating Docket No. FAA-2015-0415.

Relevant Service Information Under 1 CFR Part 51

    GROB Aircraft has issued Service Bulletin No. MSB1078-196/1, dated 
December 1, 2014, and Service Bulletin No. MSB1121-144/3, dated 
February 20, 2015. The actions described in this service information 
are intended to correct the unsafe condition identified in the MCAI. 
The GROB Aircraft service bulletins describe procedures for inspecting 
the starter solenoid, replacing damaged starters, and installing a 
starter relay. This service information is reasonably available; see 
ADDRESSES for ways to access this service information.

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 6 products of U.S. 
registry. We also estimate that it would take about 4 work-hours per 
product to comply with the basic starter inspection requirement of this 
proposed AD. The average labor rate is $85 per work-hour.
    Based on these figures, we estimate the cost of this proposed 
inspection on

[[Page 10425]]

U.S. operators to be $2,040, or $340 per product.
    In addition, we estimate that any necessary starter replacements 
would take about 4 work-hours and require parts costing $600, for a 
cost of $940 per product. We have no way of determining the number of 
products that may need this replacement.
    We also estimate that it would take about 20 work-hours per product 
to comply with the starter relay installation requirement of this 
proposed AD. The average labor rate is $85 per work-hour. Required 
parts would cost about $1,000 per product.
    Based on these figures, we estimate the cost of this proposed 
installation on U.S. operators to be $16,200, or $2,700 per product

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 removing Amendment 39-18055 (80 FR 
155, January 5, 2015), and adding the following new AD:

GROB-WERKE: Docket No. FAA-2015-0415; Directorate Identifier 2015-
CE-001-AD.

(a) Comments Due Date

    We must receive comments by April 13, 2015.

(b) Affected ADs

    This AD supersedes AD 2014-26-04, Amendment 39-18055 (80 FR 155, 
January 5, 2015) (``AD 2014-26-04'').

(c) Applicability

    This AD applies to GROB-WERKE Model G115EG airplanes, all serial 
numbers through 82323/E, and Model G120A airplanes, all serial 
numbers through 85063, certificated in any category.

(d) Subject

    Air Transport Association of America (ATA) Code 80: Starting.

(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. We are issuing this AD to detect and correct defective 
starter solenoids, which could cause an internal short circuit and 
could result in reduced control. We are superseding AD 2014-26-04 
requiring installation of a starter relay that will prevent loss of 
electrical power in case of electrical shortage in the starter 
solenoid.

 (f) Actions and Compliance

    Unless already done, do the actions in paragraphs (f)(1) through 
(f)(3) of this AD:
    (1) Within the next 30 days after February 9, 2015 (the 
effective date retained from AD 2014-26-04), inspect the starter 
following Part A of the Accomplishment Instructions in GROB Aircraft 
Service Bulletin No. MSB1078-196, dated July 14, 2014; GROB Aircraft 
Service Bulletin No. MSB1078-196/1, dated December 1, 2014; GROB 
Aircraft Service Bulletin No. MSB1121-144, dated July 14, 2014; GROB 
Aircraft Service Bulletin No. MSB1121-144/1, dated January 12, 2015; 
GROB Aircraft Service Bulletin No. MSB1121-144/2, dated February 5, 
2015; or GROB Aircraft Service Bulletin No. MSB1121-144/3, dated 
February 20, 2015, as applicable.
    (2) If any damage is found on the starter during the inspection 
required in paragraph (f)(1) of this AD, before further flight, 
replace the starter with a serviceable part. Do the replacement 
following Part A of the Accomplishment Instructions in GROB Aircraft 
Service Bulletin No. MSB1078-196, dated July 14, 2014; GROB Aircraft 
Service Bulletin No. MSB1078-196/1, dated December 1, 2014; GROB 
Aircraft Service Bulletin No. MSB1121-144, dated July 14, 2014; GROB 
Aircraft Service Bulletin No. MSB1121-144/1, dated January 12, 2015; 
GROB Aircraft Service Bulletin No. MSB1121-144/2, dated February 5, 
2015; or GROB Aircraft Service Bulletin No. MSB1121-144/3, dated 
February 20, 2015, as applicable.
    (3) Within the next 100 hours time-in-service after the 
effective date of this AD, install a starter relay following Part B 
of the Accomplishment Instructions in GROB Aircraft Service Bulletin 
No. MSB1078-196/1, dated December 1, 2014, or GROB Aircraft Service 
Bulletin No. MSB1121-144/3, dated February 205, 2015, as applicable.

(g) Credit for Actions Done in Accordance With Previous Service 
Information

    Actions done before the effective date of this AD following the 
Accomplishment Instructions specified in GROB Aircraft Service 
Bulletin No. MSB1121-144/1, dated January 12, 2015; or GROB Aircraft 
Service Bulletin No. MSB1121-144/2, dated February 5, 2015, as 
applicable, are considered acceptable for compliance with the 
corresponding actions specified in paragraphs (f)(1) through (f)(2) 
of this AD.

(h) 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: Karl Schletzbaum, Aerospace Engineer, FAA, 
Small Airplane Directorate, 901 Locust, Room 301, Kansas City, 
Missouri 64106; telephone: (816) 329-4146; fax: (816) 329-4090; 
email: karl.schletzbaum@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.

[[Page 10426]]

(i) Related Information

    Refer to MCAI European Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) AD No. 
2015-0010R1, dated February 4, 2015, for related information. You 
may examine the MCAI on the Internet at https://www.regulations.gov 
by searching for and locating Docket No. FAA-2015-0415. For service 
information related to this AD, contact Grob Aircraft AG, Customer 
Service, Lettenbachstrasse 9, D-86874 Tussenhausen-Mattsies, 
Germany, telephone: + 49 (0) 8268-998-105; fax: + 49 (0) 8268-998-
200; email: aircraft.com">productsupport@grob-aircraft.com; Internet: grob-
aircraft.com. You may review copies of the referenced service 
information at the FAA, Small Airplane Directorate, 901 Locust, 
Kansas City, Missouri 64106. For information on the availability of 
this material at the FAA, call (816) 329-4148.

    Issued in Kansas City, Missouri, on February 19, 2015.
Pat Mullen,
Acting Manager, Small Airplane Directorate, Aircraft Certification 
Service.
[FR Doc. 2015-03979 Filed 2-25-15; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE 4910-13-P
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