Airworthiness Directives; Schempp-Hirth Flugzeugbau GmbH Sailplanes, 46206-46208 [2015-18955]
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46206
Proposed Rules
Federal Register
Vol. 80, No. 149
Tuesday, August 4, 2015
This section of the FEDERAL REGISTER
contains notices to the public of the proposed
issuance of rules and regulations. The
purpose of these notices is to give interested
persons an opportunity to participate in the
rule making prior to the adoption of the final
rules.
DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION
Federal Aviation Administration
14 CFR Part 39
[Docket No. FAA–2015–3224; Directorate
Identifier 2015–CE–026–AD]
RIN 2120–AA64
Airworthiness Directives; SchemppHirth Flugzeugbau GmbH Sailplanes
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
Schempp-Hirth Flugzeugbau GmbH
Models Duo Discus and Duo Discus T
powered sailplanes. 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 excessive load on the air
brake system. We are issuing this
proposed AD to require actions to
address the unsafe condition on these
products.
SUMMARY:
We must receive comments on
this proposed AD by September 18,
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.
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ADDRESSES:
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14:48 Aug 03, 2015
Jkt 235001
and 5 p.m., Monday through Friday,
except Federal holidays.
For service information identified in
this proposed AD, contact SchemppHirth Flugzeugbau GmbH, Krebenstrasse
25, 73230 Kirchheim/Teck, Germany;
telephone: +49 7021 7298–0; fax: +49
7021 7298–199; email: info@schempphirth.com; Internet: https://
www.schempp-hirth.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–2015–
3224; 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: Jim
Rutherford, Aerospace Engineer, FAA,
Small Airplane Directorate, 901 Locust,
Room 301, Kansas City, Missouri 64106;
telephone: (816) 329–4165; fax: (816)
329–4090; email: jim.rutherford@
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–2015–3224; Directorate Identifier
2015–CE–026–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
PO 00000
Frm 00001
Fmt 4702
Sfmt 4702
information you provide. We will also
post a report summarizing each
substantive verbal contact we receive
about this proposed AD.
Discussion
The European Aviation Safety Agency
(EASA), which is the Technical Agent
for the Member States of the European
Community, has issued AD No. 2015–
0139R1, dated July 15, 2015 (referred to
after this as ‘‘the MCAI’’), to correct an
unsafe condition for the specified
products. The MCAI states:
Operational experience shows that
application of an excessive load on the air
brake system may induce damage to the drive
funnels in the fuselage and to the air brake
bellcrank at the root rips of the wing.
This condition, if not detected and
corrected, could lead to an uncontrolled
actuation of the air brakes (symmetric and
asymmetric), possibly resulting in reduced
control of the (powered) sailplane.
To address this potential unsafe condition,
Schempp-Hirth Flugzeugbau GmbH issued
Technical Note (TN) 380–2, 396–17, 868–22
and 890–14 (published as a single document)
to provide inspection instructions.
Consequently EASA issued AD 2015–0139
to require to repetitive inspections of the air
brake bellcrank, the air brake drive funnels
and the airbrake control system, and
replacement of damaged parts.
Since that AD was issued, it was found that
the drawing number of the reinforced air
brake drive funnel was incorrectly stated in
the original issue of the Schempp-Hirth TN.
The wrongly referred drawing S14FB703
refers to an existing part, different from air
brake drive funnel and cannot be installed as
a replacement part for air brake drive funnel.
Consequently, Schempp-Hirth Flugzeugbau
GmbH issued Revision 1 of TN 380–2, 396–
17, 868–22 and 890–14, hearafter referenced
to as ‘the revised TN’ in this AD.
For the reasons described above, this AD
is revised to require using the revised TN.
You may examine the MCAI on the
Internet at https://www.regulations.gov
by searching for and locating Docket No.
FAA–2015–3224.
Related Service Information Under 1
CFR Part 51
Schempp-Hirth Flugzeugbau GmbH
has issued Technical Note No. 380–2/
396–17/868–22/890–14, Revision 1,
issued July 13, 2015 (published as a
single document), and Working
instruction for Technical Note No. 380–
2/396–17/868–22/890–14, Ausgabe
(English translation: Issue) 1, Datum
(English translation: Dated) May 11,
2015. The service information describes
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Federal Register / Vol. 80, No. 149 / Tuesday, August 4, 2015 / Proposed Rules
procedures for inspecting and replacing
the airbrake bell crank and the airbrake
drive funnels and inspecting the
airbrake control system for proper
clearance and making necessary
adjustments. This service 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 NPRM.
Lhorne on DSK7TPTVN1PROD with PROPOSALS
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 31 products of U.S. registry.
We also estimate that it would take
about 2 work-hours per product to
comply with the basic inspection
requirements of this proposed AD. The
average labor rate is $85 per work-hour.
Based on these figures, we estimate
the cost of the proposed AD on U.S.
operators to be $5,270, or $170 per
product.
We estimate that it would take about
4 work-hours per product to comply
with the airbrake bell crank replacement
requirement of this proposed AD. The
average labor rate is $85 per work-hour.
Required parts would cost about $500
per product.
Based on these figures, we estimate
the cost of the proposed AD on U.S.
operators to be $26,040, or $840 per
product.
We estimate that it would take about
4 work-hours per product to comply
with the airbrake drive funnel
replacement requirement of this
proposed AD. The average labor rate is
$85 per work-hour. Required parts
would cost about $500 per product.
Based on these figures, we estimate
the cost of the proposed AD on U.S.
operators to be $26,040, or $840 per
product
In addition, we estimate that any
necessary follow-on actions to make any
necessary adjustments to the airbrake
control system would take about 2
work-hours for a cost of $170 per
product. We have no way of
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14:48 Aug 03, 2015
Jkt 235001
determining the number of products
that may need these actions.
PART 39—AIRWORTHINESS
DIRECTIVES
Authority for This Rulemaking
46207
■
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:
PO 00000
Frm 00002
Fmt 4702
Sfmt 4702
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:
■
Schempp-Hirth Flugzeugbau GmbH: Docket
No. FAA–2015–3224; Directorate
Identifier 2015–CE–026–AD.
(a) Comments Due Date
We must receive comments by September
18, 2015.
(b) Affected ADs
None.
(c) Applicability
This AD applies to Schempp-Hirth
Flugzeugbau GmbH Model Duo Discus
powered sailplane, serial numbers 1 through
639, and Model Duo Discus T powered
sailplanes, serial numbers 1 through 110 and
112 through 247, certificated in any category.
(d) Subject
Air Transport Association of America
(ATA) Code 27: Flight Controls.
(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 excessive
load on the air brake system. We are issuing
this AD to prevent uncontrolled actuation of
the air brakes (symmetric or asymmetric),
which could result in reduced control.
(f) Actions and Compliance
Unless already done, do the actions in
paragraph (f)(1) through (f)(5) of this AD.
(1) Within 40 days after the effective date
of this AD and repetitively thereafter at
intervals not to exceed 100 hours time-inservice until the terminating replacement
action required in paragraphs (f)(2) and (f)(3)
of this AD (as applicable) is done, inspect the
airbrake bell crank, the airbrake drive
funnels, and the airbrake control system.
(i) Inspect the airbrake bell crank and the
airbrake drive funnels for cracks and damage
following Action 1 in Schempp-Hirth
Flugzeugbau GmbH Technical Note No. 380–
2/396–17/868–22/890–14, Revision 1, issued
July 13, 2015 (published as a single
document).
(ii) Inspect the airbrake control system for
proper clearance following Paragraph 2.d. of
Schempp-Hirth Flugzeugbau GmbH Working
instruction for Technical Note No. 380–2/
396–17/868–22/890–14, Ausgabe (English
translation: issue) 1, Datum (English
translation: dated) May 11, 2015.
(2) If cracks or damage is found on the
airbrake bell cranks or the airbrake drive
funnels during any inspection required in
paragraph (f)(1) of this AD, before further
flight, replace each cracked or damaged part
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46208
Federal Register / Vol. 80, No. 149 / Tuesday, August 4, 2015 / Proposed Rules
with a reinforced part. Installing a reinforced
part terminates the repetitive inspections
required in paragraph (f)(1) of this AD for
that part.
(i) For replacement of the airbrake bell
cranks, follow Picture 2: Reinforced version
of airbrake bell crank according to HS 11–
50.016, Revision a or later, in Schempp-Hirth
Flugzeugbau GmbH Working instruction for
Technical Note No. 380–2/396–17/868–22/
890–14, Ausgabe (English translation: issue)
1, Datum (English translation: dated) May 11,
2015.
(ii) For replacement of the airbrake drive
funnels, follow Picture 5: Airbrake drive
funnel in fuselage ‘‘Reinforcement of airbrake
drive funnel according to drawing S14RB703,
Revision a, in Schempp-Hirth Flugzeugbau
GmbH Working instruction for Technical
Note No. 380–2/396–17/868–22/890–14,
Ausgabe (English translation: issue) 1, Datum
(English translation: dated) May 11, 2015.
(3) If no cracks or damage were found on
the airbrake bell cranks or the airbrake drive
funnels during any inspection required in
paragraph (f)(1) of this AD, within 12 months
after the effective date of this AD, replace
each the airbrake bell cranks and airbrake
drive funnels with a reinforced part. These
replacements terminate the repetitive
inspections required in paragraph (f)(1) of
this AD.
(i) For replacement of the airbrake bell
cranks, follow Picture 2: Reinforced version
of airbrake bell crank according to HS 11–
50.016, Revision a or later, in Schempp-Hirth
Flugzeugbau GmbH Working instruction for
Technical Note No. 380–2/396–17/868–22/
890–14, Ausgabe (English translation: issue)
1, Datum (English translation: dated) May 11,
2015.
(ii) For replacement of the airbrake drive
funnels, follow Picture 5: Airbrake drive
funnel in fuselage, ‘‘Reinforcement of
airbrake drive funnel according to drawing
S14RB703, Revision a,’’ in Schempp-Hirth
Flugzeugbau GmbH Working instruction for
Technical Note No. 380–2/396–17/868–22/
890–14, Ausgabe (English translation: issue)
1, Datum (English translation: dated) May 11,
2015.
(4) If the airbrake control system is found
to not have proper clearance during the
inspection required in paragraph (f)(1) of this
AD, before further flight, make all necessary
corrective adjustments following Paragraph
2.d. of Schempp-Hirth Flugzeugbau GmbH
Working instruction for Technical Note No.
380–2/396–17/868–22/890–14, Ausgabe
(English translation: issue) 1, Datum (English
translation: dated) May 11, 2015.
(5) As of the effective date of this AD, only
install an airbrake bell crank or an airbrake
drive funnel that corresponds to Picture 2:
Reinforced version of airbrake bell crank
according to HS 11–50.016, Revision a or
later, and Picture 5: Airbrake drive funnel in
fuselage, ‘‘Reinforcement of airbrake drive
funnel according to drawing S14RB703,
Revision a,’’ in Schempp-Hirth Flugzeugbau
GmbH Working instruction for Technical
Note No. 380–2/396–17/868–22/890–14,
Ausgabe (English translation: issue) 1, Datum
(English translation: dated) May 11, 2015, as
applicable.
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14:48 Aug 03, 2015
Jkt 235001
(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: Jim Rutherford, Aerospace Engineer,
FAA, Small Airplane Directorate, 901 Locust,
Room 301, Kansas City, Missouri 64106;
telephone: (816) 329–4165; fax: (816) 329–
4090; email: jim.rutherford@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.
(h) Related Information
Refer to MCAI European Aviation Safety
Agency (EASA) AD No. 2015–0139R1, dated
July 15, 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–2015–3224.
For service information related to this AD,
contact Schempp-Hirth Flugzeugbau GmbH,
Krebenstrasse 25, 73230 Kirchheim/Teck,
Germany; telephone: +49 7021 7298–0; fax:
+49 7021 7298–199; email: info@schempphirth.com; Internet: https://www.schempphirth.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 July 28,
2015.
Pat Mullen,
Acting Manager, Small Airplane Directorate,
Aircraft Certification Service.
[FR Doc. 2015–18955 Filed 8–3–15; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE 4910–13–P
DEPARTMENT OF THE TREASURY
31 CFR Part 23
RIN 1505–AC51
Nondiscrimination on the Basis of Age
in Programs and Activities Receiving
Federal Financial Assistance From the
Department of the Treasury
Department of the Treasury.
Proposed rule.
AGENCY:
ACTION:
This proposed rule sets out
the Department of the Treasury’s
(Treasury) rules for implementing the
Age Discrimination Act of 1975, as
SUMMARY:
PO 00000
Frm 00003
Fmt 4702
Sfmt 4702
amended (the Act). The Act prohibits
discrimination on the basis of age in
programs and activities receiving federal
financial assistance. The Act, which
applies to persons of all ages, permits
the use of certain age distinctions and
factors other than age that meet the
Act’s requirements.
The Act and the related general,
government-wide regulations require all
agencies that extend federal financial
assistance to issue agency-specific
regulations implementing the Act.
Treasury recipients have been subject to
the Act and the government-wide
regulations since their effective date in
1979. Accordingly, today’s proposed
rule does not substantially change
Treasury recipients’ existing duty to
refrain from discrimination on the basis
of age. This proposal fulfills the
obligation on Treasury to issue agencyspecific rules under the Act, clarifies the
responsibilities of Treasury recipients
under the Act, and describes the
Treasury investigation, conciliation, and
enforcement procedures to ensure
compliance.
Written comments must be
received on or before October 5, 2015.
ADDRESSES: Interested persons are
invited to submit comments regarding
this notice of proposed rulemaking
according to the instructions below. All
submissions must refer to the document
title. The Department encourages the
early submission of comments.
Electronic Submission of Comments:
Interested persons may submit
comments electronically through the
Federal eRulemaking Portal at https://
www.regulations.gov. Electronic
submission of comments allows the
commenter maximum time to prepare
and submit a comment, ensures timely
receipt, and assists the Department in
making comments available to the
public. Comments submitted
electronically through the https://
www.regulations.gov Web site can be
viewed by other commenters and
interested members of the public.
Commenters should follow the
instructions provided on that site to
submit comments electronically.
Mail: Send comments to Mariam G.
Harvey, Director, Office of Civil Rights
and Diversity, 1500 Pennsylvania
Avenue NW., Washington, DC 20220.
Note: To receive consideration,
comments must be submitted through
one of the methods specified above.
Public Inspection of Public
Comments: All properly submitted
comments will be available for
inspection and downloading at https://
www.regulations.gov.
DATES:
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]]>Agencies
[Federal Register Volume 80, Number 149 (Tuesday, August 4, 2015)]
[Proposed Rules]
[Pages 46206-46208]
From the Federal Register Online via the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]
[FR Doc No: 2015-18955]
========================================================================
Proposed Rules
Federal Register
________________________________________________________________________
This section of the FEDERAL REGISTER contains notices to the public of
the proposed issuance of rules and regulations. The purpose of these
notices is to give interested persons an opportunity to participate in
the rule making prior to the adoption of the final rules.
========================================================================
Federal Register / Vol. 80, No. 149 / Tuesday, August 4, 2015 /
Proposed Rules
[[Page 46206]]
DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION
Federal Aviation Administration
14 CFR Part 39
[Docket No. FAA-2015-3224; Directorate Identifier 2015-CE-026-AD]
RIN 2120-AA64
Airworthiness Directives; Schempp-Hirth Flugzeugbau GmbH
Sailplanes
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
Schempp-Hirth Flugzeugbau GmbH Models Duo Discus and Duo Discus T
powered sailplanes. 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 excessive
load on the air brake system. 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 September 18,
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
Schempp-Hirth Flugzeugbau GmbH, Krebenstrasse 25, 73230 Kirchheim/Teck,
Germany; telephone: +49 7021 7298-0; fax: +49 7021 7298-199; email:
hirth.com">info@schempp-hirth.com; Internet: https://www.schempp-hirth.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-2015-
3224; 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: Jim Rutherford, Aerospace Engineer,
FAA, Small Airplane Directorate, 901 Locust, Room 301, Kansas City,
Missouri 64106; telephone: (816) 329-4165; fax: (816) 329-4090; email:
jim.rutherford@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-2015-3224;
Directorate Identifier 2015-CE-026-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 European Aviation Safety Agency (EASA), which is the Technical
Agent for the Member States of the European Community, has issued AD
No. 2015-0139R1, dated July 15, 2015 (referred to after this as ``the
MCAI''), to correct an unsafe condition for the specified products. The
MCAI states:
Operational experience shows that application of an excessive
load on the air brake system may induce damage to the drive funnels
in the fuselage and to the air brake bellcrank at the root rips of
the wing.
This condition, if not detected and corrected, could lead to an
uncontrolled actuation of the air brakes (symmetric and asymmetric),
possibly resulting in reduced control of the (powered) sailplane.
To address this potential unsafe condition, Schempp-Hirth
Flugzeugbau GmbH issued Technical Note (TN) 380-2, 396-17, 868-22
and 890-14 (published as a single document) to provide inspection
instructions.
Consequently EASA issued AD 2015-0139 to require to repetitive
inspections of the air brake bellcrank, the air brake drive funnels
and the airbrake control system, and replacement of damaged parts.
Since that AD was issued, it was found that the drawing number
of the reinforced air brake drive funnel was incorrectly stated in
the original issue of the Schempp-Hirth TN. The wrongly referred
drawing S14FB703 refers to an existing part, different from air
brake drive funnel and cannot be installed as a replacement part for
air brake drive funnel. Consequently, Schempp-Hirth Flugzeugbau GmbH
issued Revision 1 of TN 380-2, 396-17, 868-22 and 890-14, hearafter
referenced to as `the revised TN' in this AD.
For the reasons described above, this AD is revised to require
using the revised TN.
You may examine the MCAI on the Internet at https://www.regulations.gov
by searching for and locating Docket No. FAA-2015-3224.
Related Service Information Under 1 CFR Part 51
Schempp-Hirth Flugzeugbau GmbH has issued Technical Note No. 380-2/
396-17/868-22/890-14, Revision 1, issued July 13, 2015 (published as a
single document), and Working instruction for Technical Note No. 380-2/
396-17/868-22/890-14, Ausgabe (English translation: Issue) 1, Datum
(English translation: Dated) May 11, 2015. The service information
describes
[[Page 46207]]
procedures for inspecting and replacing the airbrake bell crank and the
airbrake drive funnels and inspecting the airbrake control system for
proper clearance and making necessary adjustments. This service
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 NPRM.
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 31 products of U.S.
registry. We also estimate that it would take about 2 work-hours per
product to comply with the basic inspection requirements of this
proposed AD. The average labor rate is $85 per work-hour.
Based on these figures, we estimate the cost of the proposed AD on
U.S. operators to be $5,270, or $170 per product.
We estimate that it would take about 4 work-hours per product to
comply with the airbrake bell crank replacement requirement of this
proposed AD. The average labor rate is $85 per work-hour. Required
parts would cost about $500 per product.
Based on these figures, we estimate the cost of the proposed AD on
U.S. operators to be $26,040, or $840 per product.
We estimate that it would take about 4 work-hours per product to
comply with the airbrake drive funnel replacement requirement of this
proposed AD. The average labor rate is $85 per work-hour. Required
parts would cost about $500 per product.
Based on these figures, we estimate the cost of the proposed AD on
U.S. operators to be $26,040, or $840 per product
In addition, we estimate that any necessary follow-on actions to
make any necessary adjustments to the airbrake control system would
take about 2 work-hours for a cost of $170 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:
Schempp-Hirth Flugzeugbau GmbH: Docket No. FAA-2015-3224;
Directorate Identifier 2015-CE-026-AD.
(a) Comments Due Date
We must receive comments by September 18, 2015.
(b) Affected ADs
None.
(c) Applicability
This AD applies to Schempp-Hirth Flugzeugbau GmbH Model Duo
Discus powered sailplane, serial numbers 1 through 639, and Model
Duo Discus T powered sailplanes, serial numbers 1 through 110 and
112 through 247, certificated in any category.
(d) Subject
Air Transport Association of America (ATA) Code 27: Flight
Controls.
(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 excessive load
on the air brake system. We are issuing this AD to prevent
uncontrolled actuation of the air brakes (symmetric or asymmetric),
which could result in reduced control.
(f) Actions and Compliance
Unless already done, do the actions in paragraph (f)(1) through
(f)(5) of this AD.
(1) Within 40 days after the effective date of this AD and
repetitively thereafter at intervals not to exceed 100 hours time-
in-service until the terminating replacement action required in
paragraphs (f)(2) and (f)(3) of this AD (as applicable) is done,
inspect the airbrake bell crank, the airbrake drive funnels, and the
airbrake control system.
(i) Inspect the airbrake bell crank and the airbrake drive
funnels for cracks and damage following Action 1 in Schempp-Hirth
Flugzeugbau GmbH Technical Note No. 380-2/396-17/868-22/890-14,
Revision 1, issued July 13, 2015 (published as a single document).
(ii) Inspect the airbrake control system for proper clearance
following Paragraph 2.d. of Schempp-Hirth Flugzeugbau GmbH Working
instruction for Technical Note No. 380-2/396-17/868-22/890-14,
Ausgabe (English translation: issue) 1, Datum (English translation:
dated) May 11, 2015.
(2) If cracks or damage is found on the airbrake bell cranks or
the airbrake drive funnels during any inspection required in
paragraph (f)(1) of this AD, before further flight, replace each
cracked or damaged part
[[Page 46208]]
with a reinforced part. Installing a reinforced part terminates the
repetitive inspections required in paragraph (f)(1) of this AD for
that part.
(i) For replacement of the airbrake bell cranks, follow Picture
2: Reinforced version of airbrake bell crank according to HS 11-
50.016, Revision a or later, in Schempp-Hirth Flugzeugbau GmbH
Working instruction for Technical Note No. 380-2/396-17/868-22/890-
14, Ausgabe (English translation: issue) 1, Datum (English
translation: dated) May 11, 2015.
(ii) For replacement of the airbrake drive funnels, follow
Picture 5: Airbrake drive funnel in fuselage ``Reinforcement of
airbrake drive funnel according to drawing S14RB703, Revision a, in
Schempp-Hirth Flugzeugbau GmbH Working instruction for Technical
Note No. 380-2/396-17/868-22/890-14, Ausgabe (English translation:
issue) 1, Datum (English translation: dated) May 11, 2015.
(3) If no cracks or damage were found on the airbrake bell
cranks or the airbrake drive funnels during any inspection required
in paragraph (f)(1) of this AD, within 12 months after the effective
date of this AD, replace each the airbrake bell cranks and airbrake
drive funnels with a reinforced part. These replacements terminate
the repetitive inspections required in paragraph (f)(1) of this AD.
(i) For replacement of the airbrake bell cranks, follow Picture
2: Reinforced version of airbrake bell crank according to HS 11-
50.016, Revision a or later, in Schempp-Hirth Flugzeugbau GmbH
Working instruction for Technical Note No. 380-2/396-17/868-22/890-
14, Ausgabe (English translation: issue) 1, Datum (English
translation: dated) May 11, 2015.
(ii) For replacement of the airbrake drive funnels, follow
Picture 5: Airbrake drive funnel in fuselage, ``Reinforcement of
airbrake drive funnel according to drawing S14RB703, Revision a,''
in Schempp-Hirth Flugzeugbau GmbH Working instruction for Technical
Note No. 380-2/396-17/868-22/890-14, Ausgabe (English translation:
issue) 1, Datum (English translation: dated) May 11, 2015.
(4) If the airbrake control system is found to not have proper
clearance during the inspection required in paragraph (f)(1) of this
AD, before further flight, make all necessary corrective adjustments
following Paragraph 2.d. of Schempp-Hirth Flugzeugbau GmbH Working
instruction for Technical Note No. 380-2/396-17/868-22/890-14,
Ausgabe (English translation: issue) 1, Datum (English translation:
dated) May 11, 2015.
(5) As of the effective date of this AD, only install an
airbrake bell crank or an airbrake drive funnel that corresponds to
Picture 2: Reinforced version of airbrake bell crank according to HS
11-50.016, Revision a or later, and Picture 5: Airbrake drive funnel
in fuselage, ``Reinforcement of airbrake drive funnel according to
drawing S14RB703, Revision a,'' in Schempp-Hirth Flugzeugbau GmbH
Working instruction for Technical Note No. 380-2/396-17/868-22/890-
14, Ausgabe (English translation: issue) 1, Datum (English
translation: dated) May 11, 2015, as applicable.
(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: Jim Rutherford, Aerospace Engineer, FAA, Small
Airplane Directorate, 901 Locust, Room 301, Kansas City, Missouri
64106; telephone: (816) 329-4165; fax: (816) 329-4090; email:
jim.rutherford@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.
(h) Related Information
Refer to MCAI European Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) AD No.
2015-0139R1, dated July 15, 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-2015-3224. For service
information related to this AD, contact Schempp-Hirth Flugzeugbau
GmbH, Krebenstrasse 25, 73230 Kirchheim/Teck, Germany; telephone:
+49 7021 7298-0; fax: +49 7021 7298-199; email: hirth.com">info@schempp-hirth.com; Internet: https://www.schempp-hirth.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 July 28, 2015.
Pat Mullen,
Acting Manager, Small Airplane Directorate, Aircraft Certification
Service.
[FR Doc. 2015-18955 Filed 8-3-15; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE 4910-13-P
