Airworthiness Directives; Airbus Helicopters (Previously Eurocopter France) Helicopters, 32456-32458 [2015-13851]

Download as PDF 32456 Federal Register / Vol. 80, No. 110 / Tuesday, June 9, 2015 / Rules and Regulations any approved AMOC, notify your appropriate principal inspector, or lacking a principal inspector, the manager of the local flight standards district office/certificate holding district office. The AMOC approval letter must specifically reference this AD. (2) Contacting the Manufacturer: For any requirement in this AD to obtain corrective actions from a manufacturer, the action must be accomplished using a method approved by the Manager, International Branch, ANM– 116, Transport Airplane Directorate, FAA; or EASA; or ATR–GIE Avions de Transport ´ Regional’s EASA DOA. If approved by the DOA, the approval must include the DOAauthorized signature. (m) Related Information (1) Refer to Mandatory Continuing Airworthiness Information (MCAI) EASA Airworthiness Directive 2014–0075R1, dated April 24, 2014, for related information. This MCAI may be found in the AD docket on the Internet at https://www.regulations.gov/ #!documentDetail;D=FAA-2014-0568-0002. (2) Service information identified in this AD that is not incorporated by reference is available at the addresses specified in paragraphs (n)(3) and (n)(4) of this AD. (n) Material Incorporated by Reference tkelley on DSK3SPTVN1PROD with RULES (1) The Director of the Federal Register approved the incorporation by reference (IBR) of the service information listed in this paragraph under 5 U.S.C. 552(a) and 1 CFR part 51. (2) You must use this service information as applicable to do the actions required by this AD, unless this AD specifies otherwise. (i) Zodiac Aerospace Service Bulletin 766983–28–002, Revision 1, dated March 24, 2014. (ii) Reserved. (3) For service information identified in this AD, contact Zodiac Aerospace, Technical Publication Department, 61 Rue Pierre Curie—CS20001, 78373 Plaisir Cedex, France; phone: +33 (0)1 61 34 19 24; fax: +33 (0)1 61 34 21 13; email: yann.laine@ zodiacaerospace.com; Internet: https:// www.zodiacaerospace.com. (4) You may view this service information at the FAA, Transport Airplane Directorate, 1601 Lind Avenue SW., Renton, WA. For information on the availability of this material at the FAA, call 425–227–1221. (5) You may view this service information that is incorporated by reference at the National Archives and Records Administration (NARA). For information on the availability of this material at NARA, call 202–741–6030, or go to: https:// www.archives.gov/federal-register/cfr/ibrlocations.html. Issued in Renton, Washington, on May 18, 2015. John P. Piccola, Jr., Acting Manager, Transport Airplane Directorate, Aircraft Certification Service. [FR Doc. 2015–13319 Filed 6–8–15; 8:45 am] BILLING CODE 4910–13–P VerDate Sep<11>2014 15:56 Jun 08, 2015 Jkt 235001 DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION Federal Aviation Administration 14 CFR Part 39 [Docket No. FAA–2014–0646; Directorate Identifier 2013–SW–053–AD; Amendment 39–18174; AD 2015–12–01] RIN 2120–AA64 Airworthiness Directives; Airbus Helicopters (Previously Eurocopter France) Helicopters Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), DOT. ACTION: Final rule. AGENCY: We are adopting a new airworthiness directive (AD) for Airbus Helicopters (previously Eurocopter France) Model AS355E, AS355F, AS355F1, and AS355F2 helicopters with a Fueltron flowmeter installed. This AD requires removing each flowmeter, replacing the fuel system hoses, and disabling the electrical connections for the flowmeter installation. This AD was prompted by a report of particle contamination creating an obstruction in a flowmeter which resulted in an uncontrolled flame-out of the engine. The actions of this AD are intended to prevent obstruction of the fuel supply to the flowmeter, which could result in engine flame-out and subsequent loss of control of the helicopter. DATES: This AD is effective July 14, 2015. The Director of the Federal Register approved the incorporation by reference of a certain document listed in this AD as of July 14, 2015. ADDRESSES: For service information identified in this AD, contact Airbus Helicopters, 2701 N. Forum Drive, Grand Prairie, Texas 75052; telephone (972) 641–0000 or (800) 232–0323; fax (972) 641–3775; or at https:// www.airbushelicopters.com/techpub. 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. It is also available on the Internet at https:// www.regulations.gov in Docket No. FAA–2014–0646. SUMMARY: Examining the AD Docket You may examine the AD docket on the Internet at https:// www.regulations.gov or in person at the Docket Operations Office between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m., Monday through Friday, except Federal holidays. The AD docket contains this AD, the European PO 00000 Frm 00018 Fmt 4700 Sfmt 4700 Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) AD, any incorporated-by-reference service information, the economic evaluation, any comments received, and other information. The street address for the Docket Operations Office (phone: 800– 647–5527) is U.S. Department of Transportation, Docket Operations Office, M–30, West Building Ground Floor, Room W12–140, 1200 New Jersey Avenue SE., Washington, DC 20590. FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: 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: Discussion On September 15, 2014, at 79 FR 54925, the Federal Register published our notice of proposed rulemaking (NPRM), which proposed to amend 14 CFR part 39 by adding an AD that would apply to Airbus Helicopters Model AS355E, AS355F, AS355F1, and AS355F2 helicopters with a certain flowmeter installed. The NPRM proposed to require, within 750 hours time-in-service, removing the flowmeter from each engine, replacing the fuel hose with part number (P/N) 704A34– 416–029 for the left-hand (LH) engine and P/N 704A34–416–030 for the righthand (RH) engine, removing the flowmeter indicator, and disabling the flowmeter electrical connections. The proposed requirements were intended to prevent obstruction of the fuel supply to the flowmeter, which could result in engine flame-out and subsequent loss of control of the helicopter. The NPRM was prompted by AD No. 2013–0205, dated September 9, 2013, issued by EASA, which is the Technical Agent for the Member States of the European Union, to correct an unsafe condition for Eurocopter (now Airbus Helicopters) Model AS355 E, AS355 F, AS355 F1, and AS355 F2 helicopters with modification 350A070791 (installation of the Fueltron flowmeter), except helicopters with modification 355A085801 (removal of the Fueltron flowmeter). EASA advises, after landing, an AS355 helicopter experienced an uncontrolled flame-out of the No. 1 engine caused by particle contamination in the fuel that obstructed the Fueltron flowmeter. EASA further states that because the flowmeter installation is identical on both engines, this condition could lead to flame-out of both engines in flight, possibly resulting in reduced control of the helicopter. EASA AD No. 2013–0205 requires removing the E:\FR\FM\09JNR1.SGM 09JNR1 Federal Register / Vol. 80, No. 110 / Tuesday, June 9, 2015 / Rules and Regulations flowmeter from each engine, modifying the fuel line system with new fuel lines, removing the flowmeter indicator, and disabling the flowmeter electrical connections. Since we issued the NPRM (79 FR 54925, September 15, 2014), the title of the approving official for Alternative Methods of Compliance (AMOCs) has changed. Thus, we have revised the title of the approving official from the Manager of the Regulations and Policy Group to the Manager of the Safety Management Group. Comments We gave the public the opportunity to participate in developing this AD, but we did not receive any comments on the NPRM (79 FR 54925, September 15, 2014). FAA’s Determination These helicopters have been approved by the aviation authority of France and are approved for operation in the United States. Pursuant to our bilateral agreement with France, EASA, its technical representative, has notified us of the unsafe condition described in the EASA AD. We are issuing this AD because we evaluated all information provided by EASA and determined the unsafe condition exists and is likely to exist or develop on other helicopters of these same type designs and that air safety and the public interest require adopting the AD requirements as proposed. tkelley on DSK3SPTVN1PROD with RULES Interim Action We consider this AD to be an interim action. The design approval holder is currently developing a modification that will address the unsafe condition identified in this AD. Once this modification is developed, approved, and available, we might consider additional rulemaking. Related Service Information Under 1 CFR Part 51 Eurocopter issued Alert Service Bulletin (ASB) No. AS355–28.00.20, Revision 0, dated June 6, 2013, for Model AS355 E, AS355 F, AS355 F1, and AS355 F2 helicopters, which describes procedures for removing and disabling the Fueltron flowmeter installation. The ASB corresponds to Eurocopter modification 355A085801. This information is reasonably available because the interested parties have access to it through their normal course of business or by the means identified in the ADDRESSES section of this AD. Costs of Compliance We estimate that this AD will affect 47 helicopters of U.S. Registry. We VerDate Sep<11>2014 15:56 Jun 08, 2015 Jkt 235001 estimate that operators may incur the following costs in order to comply with this AD. At an average labor rate of $85 per work-hour, removing the flowmeter installation requires about 4 workhours, and required parts cost about $1,600, for a cost per helicopter of $1,940 and a total cost of $91,180 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 helicopters identified in this rulemaking action. Regulatory Findings This AD will not have federalism implications under Executive Order 13132. This AD will not have a substantial direct effect on the States, on the relationship between the national government and the States, or on the distribution of power and responsibilities among the various levels of government. For the reasons discussed above, I certify that this AD: (1) Is not a ‘‘significant regulatory action’’ under Executive Order 12866; (2) Is not a ‘‘significant rule’’ under DOT Regulatory Policies and Procedures (44 FR 11034, February 26, 1979); (3) Will not affect intrastate aviation in Alaska to the extent that it justifies making a regulatory distinction; and (4) Will not have a significant economic impact, positive or negative, on a substantial number of small entities under the criteria of the Regulatory Flexibility Act. We prepared an economic evaluation of the estimated costs to comply with this AD and placed it in the AD docket. List of Subjects in 14 CFR Part 39 Air transportation, Aircraft, Aviation safety, Incorporation by reference, Safety. PO 00000 Frm 00019 Fmt 4700 Sfmt 4700 32457 Adoption of the Amendment Accordingly, under the authority delegated to me by the Administrator, the FAA amends 14 CFR part 39 as follows: PART 39—AIRWORTHINESS DIRECTIVES 1. The authority citation for part 39 continues to read as follows: ■ Authority: 49 U.S.C. 106(g), 40113, 44701. § 39.13 [Amended] 2. The FAA amends § 39.13 by adding the following new airworthiness directive (AD): ■ 2015–12–01 Airbus Helicopters (Previously Eurocopter France): Amendment 39– 18174; Docket No. FAA–2014–0646; Directorate Identifier 2013–SW–053–AD. (a) Applicability This AD applies to Airbus Helicopters Model AS355E, AS355F, AS355F1, and AS355F2 helicopters, certificated in any category, with a Fueltron flowmeter part number (P/N) 704A37–670–001 installed. (b) Unsafe Condition This AD defines the unsafe condition as obstruction of the fuel supply to the flowmeter, which could result in engine shutdown and subsequent loss of control of the helicopter. (c) Effective Date This AD becomes effective July 14, 2015. (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 (1) Within 750 hours time-in-service: (i) Remove each flowmeter. (ii) Remove each left-hand hose, P/N 704A34.4160.31, and install hose, P/N 704A34–416–029, as depicted in Figures 1 and 2 of Eurocopter Alert Service Bulletin No. AS355–28.00.20, Revision 0, dated June 6, 2013 (ASB AS355–28.00.20). (iii) Remove each right-hand hose, P/N 704A34.4160.32, and install hose, P/N 704A34–416–030, as depicted in Figures 1 and 2 of ASB AS355–28.00.20. (iv) Remove each flowmeter indicator and disable the flowmeter wiring as described in the Accomplishment Instructions, paragraph 3.B.2.b., of ASB AS355–28.00.20. (2) After the effective date of this AD, do not install a flowmeter, P/N 704A37–670– 001, on any helicopter. (f) Special Flight Permits Special flight permits are prohibited. (g) 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 E:\FR\FM\09JNR1.SGM 09JNR1 32458 Federal Register / Vol. 80, No. 110 / Tuesday, June 9, 2015 / Rules and Regulations 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. (h) Additional Information The subject of this AD is addressed in European Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) AD 2013–0205, dated September 9, 2013. You may view the EASA AD on the Internet at https://www.regulations.gov in Docket No. FAA–2014–0646. (i) Subject Joint Aircraft Service Component (JASC) Code: 7333, Fuel Flow Sensor. (j) Material Incorporated by Reference tkelley on DSK3SPTVN1PROD with RULES (1) The Director of the Federal Register approved the incorporation by reference of the service information listed in this paragraph under 5 U.S.C. 552(a) and 1 CFR part 51. (2) You must use this service information as applicable to do the actions required by this AD, unless the AD specifies otherwise. (i) Eurocopter Alert Service Bulletin No. AS355–28.00.20, Revision 0, dated June 6, 2013. (ii) Reserved. (3) For Eurocopter service information identified in this AD, contact Airbus Helicopters, 2701 N. Forum Drive, Grand Prairie, Texas 75052; telephone (972) 641– 0000 or (800) 232–0323; fax (972) 641–3775; or at https://www.airbushelicopters.com/ techpub. (4) You may view this service information at FAA, Office of the Regional Counsel, Southwest Region, 2601 Meacham Blvd., Room 663, Fort Worth, Texas 76137. For information on the availability of this material at the FAA, call (817) 222–5110. (5) You may view this service information that is incorporated by reference at the National Archives and Records Administration (NARA). For information on the availability of this material at NARA, call (202) 741–6030, or go to: https:// www.archives.gov/federal-register/cfr/ibrlocations.html. Issued in Fort Worth, Texas, on May 29, 2015. Lance T. Gant, Acting Directorate Manager, Rotorcraft Directorate, Aircraft Certification Service. [FR Doc. 2015–13851 Filed 6–8–15; 8:45 am] BILLING CODE 4910–13–P VerDate Sep<11>2014 15:56 Jun 08, 2015 Jkt 235001 DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION Federal Aviation Administration 14 CFR Part 39 [Docket No. FAA–2013–0489; Directorate Identifier 2008–SW–003–AD; Amendment 39–18175; AD 2015–12–02] RIN 2120–AA64 Airworthiness Directives; Bell Helicopter Textron Canada Limited Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), DOT. ACTION: Final rule. AGENCY: We are adopting a new airworthiness directive (AD) for certain Bell Helicopter Textron Canada Limited (Bell) Model 206L–1, 206L–3, and 206L–4 helicopters. This AD requires installing a placard and revising the limitations section of the rotorcraft flight manual (RFM). This AD was prompted by several incidents of third stage engine turbine wheel failures caused by excessive vibrations at certain engine speeds during steady-state operations. The actions of this AD are intended to prevent turbine failure, engine power loss, and subsequent loss of control of the helicopter. DATES: This AD is effective July 14, 2015. SUMMARY: 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 the referenced service information at the FAA, Office of the Regional Counsel, Southwest Region, 2601 Meacham Blvd., Room 663, Fort Worth, Texas 76137. ADDRESSES: Examining the AD Docket You may examine the AD docket on the Internet at https:// www.regulations.gov or in person at the Docket Operations Office between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m., Monday through Friday, except Federal holidays. The AD docket contains this AD, the supplemental type certificate (STC), the Transport Canada Civil Aviation (TCCA) AD, the economic evaluation, any comments received, and other information. The street address for the Docket Operations Office (phone: 800– 647–5527) is U.S. Department of Transportation, Docket Operations Office, M–30, West Building Ground Floor, Room W12–140, 1200 New Jersey Avenue SE., Washington, DC 20590. PO 00000 Frm 00020 Fmt 4700 Sfmt 4700 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: Discussion On June 7, 2013, at 78 FR 34282, the Federal Register published our notice of proposed rulemaking (NPRM), which proposed to amend 14 CFR part 39 by adding an AD that would apply to certain Bell Model 206L–3 and 206L–4 helicopters. 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 206L– 3 and 206L–4 RFMs by inserting pages that limit steady-state operations between speeds of 71.8% and 91.5%. The proposed requirements were intended to prevent turbine failure, engine power loss, and subsequent loss of control of the helicopter. The NPRM was prompted by 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. On October 3, 2014, at 79 FR 59695, the Federal Register published our supplemental notice of proposed rulemaking (SNPRM), which proposed to revise the applicability and change the procedures for updating the RFM. The SNPRM proposed adding Bell Model 206L–1 helicopters with Engine Upgrade Kit part number (P/N) 206– 706–520 installed, to 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 RollsRoyce 250–C30P engines. The SNPRM E:\FR\FM\09JNR1.SGM 09JNR1

Agencies

[Federal Register Volume 80, Number 110 (Tuesday, June 9, 2015)]
[Rules and Regulations]
[Pages 32456-32458]
From the Federal Register Online via the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]
[FR Doc No: 2015-13851]


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

DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION

Federal Aviation Administration

14 CFR Part 39

[Docket No. FAA-2014-0646; Directorate Identifier 2013-SW-053-AD; 
Amendment 39-18174; AD 2015-12-01]
RIN 2120-AA64


Airworthiness Directives; Airbus Helicopters (Previously 
Eurocopter France) Helicopters

AGENCY: Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), DOT.

ACTION: Final rule.

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

SUMMARY: We are adopting a new airworthiness directive (AD) for Airbus 
Helicopters (previously Eurocopter France) Model AS355E, AS355F, 
AS355F1, and AS355F2 helicopters with a Fueltron flowmeter installed. 
This AD requires removing each flowmeter, replacing the fuel system 
hoses, and disabling the electrical connections for the flowmeter 
installation. This AD was prompted by a report of particle 
contamination creating an obstruction in a flowmeter which resulted in 
an uncontrolled flame-out of the engine. The actions of this AD are 
intended to prevent obstruction of the fuel supply to the flowmeter, 
which could result in engine flame-out and subsequent loss of control 
of the helicopter.

DATES: This AD is effective July 14, 2015.
    The Director of the Federal Register approved the incorporation by 
reference of a certain document listed in this AD as of July 14, 2015.

ADDRESSES: For service information identified in this AD, contact 
Airbus Helicopters, 2701 N. Forum Drive, Grand Prairie, Texas 75052; 
telephone (972) 641-0000 or (800) 232-0323; fax (972) 641-3775; or at 
https://www.airbushelicopters.com/techpub. 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. It is also available on the Internet at https://www.regulations.gov in Docket No. FAA-2014-0646.

Examining the AD Docket

    You may examine the AD docket on the Internet at https://www.regulations.gov or in person at the Docket Operations Office 
between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m., Monday through Friday, except Federal 
holidays. The AD docket contains this AD, the European Aviation Safety 
Agency (EASA) AD, any incorporated-by-reference service information, 
the economic evaluation, any comments received, and other information. 
The street address for the Docket Operations Office (phone: 800-647-
5527) is U.S. Department of Transportation, Docket Operations Office, 
M-30, West Building Ground Floor, Room W12-140, 1200 New Jersey Avenue 
SE., Washington, DC 20590.

FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: 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: 

Discussion

    On September 15, 2014, at 79 FR 54925, the Federal Register 
published our notice of proposed rulemaking (NPRM), which proposed to 
amend 14 CFR part 39 by adding an AD that would apply to Airbus 
Helicopters Model AS355E, AS355F, AS355F1, and AS355F2 helicopters with 
a certain flowmeter installed. The NPRM proposed to require, within 750 
hours time-in-service, removing the flowmeter from each engine, 
replacing the fuel hose with part number (P/N) 704A34-416-029 for the 
left-hand (LH) engine and P/N 704A34-416-030 for the right-hand (RH) 
engine, removing the flowmeter indicator, and disabling the flowmeter 
electrical connections. The proposed requirements were intended to 
prevent obstruction of the fuel supply to the flowmeter, which could 
result in engine flame-out and subsequent loss of control of the 
helicopter.
    The NPRM was prompted by AD No. 2013-0205, dated September 9, 2013, 
issued by EASA, which is the Technical Agent for the Member States of 
the European Union, to correct an unsafe condition for Eurocopter (now 
Airbus Helicopters) Model AS355 E, AS355 F, AS355 F1, and AS355 F2 
helicopters with modification 350A070791 (installation of the Fueltron 
flowmeter), except helicopters with modification 355A085801 (removal of 
the Fueltron flowmeter). EASA advises, after landing, an AS355 
helicopter experienced an uncontrolled flame-out of the No. 1 engine 
caused by particle contamination in the fuel that obstructed the 
Fueltron flowmeter. EASA further states that because the flowmeter 
installation is identical on both engines, this condition could lead to 
flame-out of both engines in flight, possibly resulting in reduced 
control of the helicopter. EASA AD No. 2013-0205 requires removing the

[[Page 32457]]

flowmeter from each engine, modifying the fuel line system with new 
fuel lines, removing the flowmeter indicator, and disabling the 
flowmeter electrical connections. Since we issued the NPRM (79 FR 
54925, September 15, 2014), the title of the approving official for 
Alternative Methods of Compliance (AMOCs) has changed. Thus, we have 
revised the title of the approving official from the Manager of the 
Regulations and Policy Group to the Manager of the Safety Management 
Group.

Comments

    We gave the public the opportunity to participate in developing 
this AD, but we did not receive any comments on the NPRM (79 FR 54925, 
September 15, 2014).

FAA's Determination

    These helicopters have been approved by the aviation authority of 
France and are approved for operation in the United States. Pursuant to 
our bilateral agreement with France, EASA, its technical 
representative, has notified us of the unsafe condition described in 
the EASA AD. We are issuing this AD because we evaluated all 
information provided by EASA and determined the unsafe condition exists 
and is likely to exist or develop on other helicopters of these same 
type designs and that air safety and the public interest require 
adopting the AD requirements as proposed.

Interim Action

    We consider this AD to be an interim action. The design approval 
holder is currently developing a modification that will address the 
unsafe condition identified in this AD. Once this modification is 
developed, approved, and available, we might consider additional 
rulemaking.

Related Service Information Under 1 CFR Part 51

    Eurocopter issued Alert Service Bulletin (ASB) No. AS355-28.00.20, 
Revision 0, dated June 6, 2013, for Model AS355 E, AS355 F, AS355 F1, 
and AS355 F2 helicopters, which describes procedures for removing and 
disabling the Fueltron flowmeter installation. The ASB corresponds to 
Eurocopter modification 355A085801. This information is reasonably 
available because the interested parties have access to it through 
their normal course of business or by the means identified in the 
ADDRESSES section of this AD.

Costs of Compliance

    We estimate that this AD will affect 47 helicopters of U.S. 
Registry. We estimate that operators may incur the following costs in 
order to comply with this AD. At an average labor rate of $85 per work-
hour, removing the flowmeter installation requires about 4 work-hours, 
and required parts cost about $1,600, for a cost per helicopter of 
$1,940 and a total cost of $91,180 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 helicopters identified in this 
rulemaking action.

Regulatory Findings

    This AD will not have federalism implications under Executive Order 
13132. This AD will not have a substantial direct effect on the States, 
on the relationship between the national government and the States, or 
on the distribution of power and responsibilities among the various 
levels of government.
    For the reasons discussed above, I certify that this AD:
    (1) Is not a ``significant regulatory action'' under Executive 
Order 12866;
    (2) Is not a ``significant rule'' under DOT Regulatory Policies and 
Procedures (44 FR 11034, February 26, 1979);
    (3) Will not affect intrastate aviation in Alaska to the extent 
that it justifies making a regulatory distinction; and
    (4) Will not have a significant economic impact, positive or 
negative, on a substantial number of small entities under the criteria 
of the Regulatory Flexibility Act.
    We prepared an economic evaluation of the estimated costs to comply 
with this AD and placed it in the AD docket.

List of Subjects in 14 CFR Part 39

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

Adoption of the Amendment

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

PART 39--AIRWORTHINESS DIRECTIVES

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

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


Sec.  39.13  [Amended]

0
2. The FAA amends Sec.  39.13 by adding the following new airworthiness 
directive (AD):

2015-12-01 Airbus Helicopters (Previously Eurocopter France): 
Amendment 39-18174; Docket No. FAA-2014-0646; Directorate Identifier 
2013-SW-053-AD.

(a) Applicability

    This AD applies to Airbus Helicopters Model AS355E, AS355F, 
AS355F1, and AS355F2 helicopters, certificated in any category, with 
a Fueltron flowmeter part number (P/N) 704A37-670-001 installed.

(b) Unsafe Condition

    This AD defines the unsafe condition as obstruction of the fuel 
supply to the flowmeter, which could result in engine shutdown and 
subsequent loss of control of the helicopter.

(c) Effective Date

    This AD becomes effective July 14, 2015.

(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

    (1) Within 750 hours time-in-service:
    (i) Remove each flowmeter.
    (ii) Remove each left-hand hose, P/N 704A34.4160.31, and install 
hose, P/N 704A34-416-029, as depicted in Figures 1 and 2 of 
Eurocopter Alert Service Bulletin No. AS355-28.00.20, Revision 0, 
dated June 6, 2013 (ASB AS355-28.00.20).
    (iii) Remove each right-hand hose, P/N 704A34.4160.32, and 
install hose, P/N 704A34-416-030, as depicted in Figures 1 and 2 of 
ASB AS355-28.00.20.
    (iv) Remove each flowmeter indicator and disable the flowmeter 
wiring as described in the Accomplishment Instructions, paragraph 
3.B.2.b., of ASB AS355-28.00.20.
    (2) After the effective date of this AD, do not install a 
flowmeter, P/N 704A37-670-001, on any helicopter.

(f) Special Flight Permits

    Special flight permits are prohibited.

(g) 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

[[Page 32458]]

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.

(h) Additional Information

    The subject of this AD is addressed in European Aviation Safety 
Agency (EASA) AD 2013-0205, dated September 9, 2013. You may view 
the EASA AD on the Internet at https://www.regulations.gov in Docket 
No. FAA-2014-0646.

(i) Subject

    Joint Aircraft Service Component (JASC) Code: 7333, Fuel Flow 
Sensor.

(j) Material Incorporated by Reference

    (1) The Director of the Federal Register approved the 
incorporation by reference of the service information listed in this 
paragraph under 5 U.S.C. 552(a) and 1 CFR part 51.
    (2) You must use this service information as applicable to do 
the actions required by this AD, unless the AD specifies otherwise.
    (i) Eurocopter Alert Service Bulletin No. AS355-28.00.20, 
Revision 0, dated June 6, 2013.
    (ii) Reserved.
    (3) For Eurocopter service information identified in this AD, 
contact Airbus Helicopters, 2701 N. Forum Drive, Grand Prairie, 
Texas 75052; telephone (972) 641-0000 or (800) 232-0323; fax (972) 
641-3775; or at https://www.airbushelicopters.com/techpub.
    (4) You may view this service information at FAA, Office of the 
Regional Counsel, Southwest Region, 2601 Meacham Blvd., Room 663, 
Fort Worth, Texas 76137. For information on the availability of this 
material at the FAA, call (817) 222-5110.
    (5) You may view this service information that is incorporated 
by reference at the National Archives and Records Administration 
(NARA). For information on the availability of this material at 
NARA, call (202) 741-6030, or go to: https://www.archives.gov/federal-register/cfr/ibr-locations.html.

    Issued in Fort Worth, Texas, on May 29, 2015.
Lance T. Gant,
Acting Directorate Manager, Rotorcraft Directorate, Aircraft 
Certification Service.
[FR Doc. 2015-13851 Filed 6-8-15; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE 4910-13-P
This site is protected by reCAPTCHA and the Google Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply.