Airworthiness Directives; Airbus Helicopters, 60030-60033 [2015-25217]

Download as PDF 60030 Federal Register / Vol. 80, No. 192 / Monday, October 5, 2015 / Rules and Regulations The Special Conditions Accordingly, pursuant to the authority delegated to me by the Administrator, the following special conditions are issued as part of the type certification basis for Gulfstream Model GVII–G500 airplanes. 1. In lieu of compliance with § 25.335(b)(1), if the flight-control system includes functions that act automatically to initiate recovery before the end of the 20-second period specified in § 25.335(b)(1), VD/MD must be determined from the greater of the speeds resulting from conditions (a) and (b) of these special conditions. The speed increase occurring in these maneuvers may be calculated if reliable or conservative aerodynamic data are used. (a) From an initial condition of stabilized flight at VC/MC, the airplane is upset so as to take up a new flight path 7.5 degrees below the initial path. Control application, up to full authority, is made to try to maintain this new flight path. Twenty seconds after initiating the upset, manual recovery is made at a load factor of 1.5g (0.5 acceleration increment), or such greater load factor that is automatically applied by the system with the pilot’s pitch control neutral. Power, as specified in § 25.175(b)(1)(iv), is assumed until recovery is initiated, at which time power reduction, and the use of pilotcontrolled drag devices, may be used. (b) From a speed below VC/MC, with power to maintain stabilized level flight at this speed, the airplane is upset so as to accelerate through VC/MC at a flight path 15 degrees below the initial path (or at the steepest nose-down attitude that the system will permit with full control authority if less than 15 degrees). The pilot’s controls may be in the neutral position after reaching VC/ MC and before recovery is initiated. Recovery may be initiated 3 seconds after operation of the high-speed warning system by application of a load of 1.5g (0.5 acceleration increment), or such greater load factor that is automatically applied by the system with the pilot’s pitch control neutral. Power may be reduced simultaneously. All other means of decelerating the airplane, the use of which is authorized up to the highest speed reached in the maneuver, may be used. The interval between successive pilot actions must not be less than 1 second. 2. The applicant must also demonstrate that the speed margin, established as above, will not be exceeded in inadvertent or gust-induced upsets resulting in initiation of the dive from non-symmetric attitudes, unless mstockstill on DSK4VPTVN1PROD with RULES ■ VerDate Sep<11>2014 16:55 Oct 02, 2015 Jkt 238001 the airplane is protected by the flightcontrol laws from getting into nonsymmetric upset conditions. The upset maneuvers described in Advisory Circular 25–7C, ‘‘Flight Test Guide for Certification of Transport Category Airplanes,’’ section 8, paragraph 32, sub-paragraphs c(3)(a), (b), and (c), may be used to comply with this requirement. 3. The probability of any failure of the high-speed protection system, which would result in an airspeed exceeding those determined by Special Conditions 1 and 2, must be less than 10¥5 per flight hour. 4. Failures of the system must be annunciated to the pilots. Flight manual instructions must be provided that reduce the maximum operating speeds, VMO/MMO. With the system failed, the operating speed must be reduced to a value that maintains a speed margin between VMO/MMO and VD/MD, and that is consistent with showing compliance with § 25.335(b) without the benefit of the high-speed protection system. 5. The applicant may request that the Master Minimum Equipment List relief for the high-speed protection system be considered by the FAA Flight Operations Evaluation Board, provided that the flight manual instructions indicate reduced maximum operating speeds as described in Special Condition 4. In addition, the flightdeck display of the reduced operating speeds, as well as the overspeed warning for exceeding those speeds, must be equivalent to that of the normal airplane with the high-speed protection system operative. Also, the applicant must show that no additional hazards are introduced with the high-speed protection system inoperative. Issued in Renton, Washington, September 25, 2015. Michael Kaszycki, Acting Manager, Transport Airplane Directorate, Aircraft Certification Service. [FR Doc. 2015–25275 Filed 10–2–15; 8:45 am] BILLING CODE 4910–13–P PO 00000 Frm 00004 Fmt 4700 Sfmt 4700 DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION Federal Aviation Administration 14 CFR Part 39 [Docket No. FAA–2015–3877; Directorate Identifier 2015–SW–039–AD; Amendment 39–18284; AD 2015–18–51] RIN 2120–AA64 Airworthiness Directives; Airbus Helicopters Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), Department of Transportation (DOT). ACTION: Final rule; request for comments. AGENCY: We are publishing a new airworthiness directive (AD) for Airbus Helicopters Model AS332C, AS332C1, AS332L, and AS332L1 helicopters, which was sent previously to all known U.S. owners and operators of these helicopters. This AD requires inspecting certain tail rotor (T/R) blades, replacing the set of T/R blades if there is damage, deactivating the rotor de-icing system, revising the rotorcraft flight manual (RFM), and installing a placard. This AD is prompted by a report of a T/R deicing system power supply box stuck in a ‘‘closed’’ position providing an uncontrolled and un-annunciated power supply to the system. These actions are intended to detect and prevent structural damage to the T/R blades caused by overheating, and subsequent loss of control of the helicopter. DATES: This AD becomes effective October 20, 2015 to all persons except those persons to whom it was made immediately effective by Emergency AD 2015–18–51, issued on September 11, 2015, which contains the requirements of this AD. We must receive comments on this AD by December 4, 2015. ADDRESSES: You may send comments by any of the following methods: • Federal eRulemaking Docket: Go to https://www.regulations.gov. Follow the online instructions for sending your comments electronically. • Fax: 202–493–2251. • Mail: Send comments to the U.S. Department of Transportation, Docket Operations, M–30, West Building Ground Floor, Room W12–140, 1200 New Jersey Avenue SE., Washington, DC 20590–0001. • Hand Delivery: Deliver to the ‘‘Mail’’ address between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m., Monday through Friday, except Federal holidays. SUMMARY: E:\FR\FM\05OCR1.SGM 05OCR1 Federal Register / Vol. 80, No. 192 / Monday, October 5, 2015 / Rules and Regulations mstockstill on DSK4VPTVN1PROD with RULES 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– 3877; 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, the economic evaluation, any comments received, and other information. The street address for the Docket Operations Office (telephone 800–647–5527) is in the ADDRESSES section. Comments will be available in the AD docket shortly after receipt. For service information identified in this AD, contact Airbus Helicopters, 2701 N. Forum Drive, Grand Prairie, TX 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, 10101 Hillwood Pkwy., Room 6N–321, Fort Worth, TX 76177. FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: George Schwab, Aviation Safety Engineer, Safety Management Group, Rotorcraft Directorate, FAA, 10101 Hillwood Pkwy., Fort Worth, TX 76177; telephone (817) 222–5110; email george.schwab@faa.gov. SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: Comments Invited This AD is a final rule that involves requirements affecting flight safety, and we did not provide you with notice and an opportunity to provide your comments prior to it becoming effective. However, we invite you to participate in this rulemaking by submitting written comments, data, or views. We also invite comments relating to the economic, environmental, energy, or federalism impacts that resulted from adopting this AD. The most helpful comments reference a specific portion of the AD, explain the reason for any recommended change, and include supporting data. To ensure the docket does not contain duplicate comments, commenters should send only one copy of written comments, or if comments are filed electronically, commenters should submit them only one time. We will file in the docket all comments that we receive, as well as a report summarizing each substantive public contact with FAA personnel concerning this rulemaking during the comment period. We will consider all the comments we receive and may conduct additional rulemaking based on those comments. VerDate Sep<11>2014 16:55 Oct 02, 2015 Jkt 238001 Discussion On September 11, 2015, we issued Emergency AD 2015–18–51 to correct an unsafe condition for Airbus Helicopters Model AS332C, AS332C1, AS332L, and AS332L1 helicopters with T/R de-icing installation unit part number (P/N) 204ZP01Y01 and T/R blade P/N 332A12–0055–XX (where XX is any dash number) installed. Emergency AD 2015–18–51 requires inspecting each T/R blade, replacing the set of T/R blades if there is damage, deactivating the rotor de-icing system, revising the RFM, and installing a placard. Emergency AD 2015–18–51 was sent previously to all known U.S. owners and operators of these helicopters and was prompted by a report of a T/R deicing system power supply box stuck in a ‘‘closed’’ position providing an uncontrolled and un-annunciated power supply to the system. The T/R de-icing system is part of the entire rotor de-icing system. Emergency AD 2015–18–51 was prompted by AD No. 2015–0153–E, dated July 24, 2015, issued by EASA, which is the Technical Agent for the Member States of the European Union, to correct an unsafe condition for Airbus Helicopters Model AS332 C, AS332C1, AS332L, and AS332L1 helicopters, equipped with T/R de-icing installation unit P/N 204ZP01Y01 and T/R blade P/ N 332A12–0055–XX (where XX represents any dash number). EASA advises of a report of a T/R blade that was overheated and damaged after application of alternating current (AC) from a ground power unit (GPU) following a flight during which the deicing system was used. Subsequent analysis determined failure of the power supply box stuck in the ‘‘closed’’ position caused the uncontrolled power supply to the rotor blade de-icing system and subsequent damage. EASA also states that its AD is considered an interim action and further AD action may follow. 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 the EASA and determined the unsafe condition exists and is likely to exist or develop on other helicopters of these same type designs. PO 00000 Frm 00005 Fmt 4700 Sfmt 4700 60031 Related Service Information Airbus Helicopters issued Alert Service Bulletin No. AS332–05.01.02, Revision 0, dated July 22, 2015 (ASB), which specifies, before each flight and before starting at least one engine, if the applicable helicopter has been supplied external 115V/400Hz AC GPU with the rotor stationary or if the de-icing system has been used or tested using an AC GPU with the rotor stationary or spinning, visually inspecting the T/R blades for burn marks, detached leading edge protection, or cracks at the skin/ leading edge protection junction. If at least one T/R blade is damaged, the ASB specifies replacing all of the T/R blades. AD Requirements This AD requires, before further flight, inspecting each T/R blade for a burn mark, any disbonding of the leading edge protection, and a crack at the junction of the skin and the leading edge protection. If there is a burn mark, any disbonding of the leading edge protection, or a crack at the junction of the skin and the leading edge protection on a T/R blade, this AD requires replacing all of the T/R blades with airworthy T/R blades. This AD also requires deactivating the rotor de-icing system, revising the RFM to state that the rotor de-icing system is deactivated and that flight into known icing is prohibited, and installing a placard stating that the rotor de-icing system is deactivated. Differences Between This AD and the EASA AD The EASA AD allows operation of the rotor de-icing system with a recurring inspection of the T/R blades. This AD requires an initial inspection and prohibits operation of the rotor de-icing system by deactivating the rotor de-icing system, revising the RFM to state the rotor de-icing system is deactivated and flight into known icing is prohibited, and installing a placard stating that the rotor de-icing system is deactivated. Interim Action We consider this AD to be an interim action. Once a modification to the rotor de-icing system design is evaluated, approved, and available, we might consider additional rulemaking. Costs of Compliance We estimate that this AD affects 19 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 workhour. It takes about 1 work-hour to inspect the T/R blades for a cost of $85 per helicopter and $1,615 for the U.S. E:\FR\FM\05OCR1.SGM 05OCR1 60032 Federal Register / Vol. 80, No. 192 / Monday, October 5, 2015 / Rules and Regulations fleet. It takes about 2 work-hours to deactivate the rotor de-icing system for a cost of $170 per helicopter and $3,230 for the U.S. fleet. It takes about 0.5 work-hour to revise the RFM for a cost of $43 per helicopter and $817 for the U.S. fleet. It takes about 0.5 work-hour and a negligible parts cost to install a placard for a cost of $43 per helicopter and $817 for the U.S. fleet. Replacing a set of T/R blades takes about 3 workhours for a labor cost of $255 per helicopter. Parts for 4-blade T/R set cost $167,644 for a total replacement cost of $167,899 per helicopter. Parts for a 5blade T/R set cost $209,555 for a total replacement cost of $209,810 per helicopter. mstockstill on DSK4VPTVN1PROD with RULES FAA’s Justification and Determination of the Effective Date Providing an opportunity for public comments prior to adopting these AD requirements would delay implementing the safety actions needed to correct this known unsafe condition. Therefore, we found and continue to find that the risk to the flying public justifies waiving notice and comment prior to the adoption of this rule because the previously described unsafe condition can adversely affect the controllability of the helicopter and the initial required action must be accomplished before further flight. Since it was found that immediate corrective action was required, notice and opportunity for prior public comment before issuing this AD were impracticable and contrary to public interest and good cause existed to make the AD effective immediately by Emergency AD 2015–18–51, issued on September 11, 2015, to all known U.S. owners and operators of these helicopters. These conditions still exist and the AD is hereby published in the Federal Register as an amendment to section 39.13 of the Federal Aviation Regulations (14 CFR 39.13) to make it effective to all persons. 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 VerDate Sep<11>2014 16:55 Oct 02, 2015 Jkt 238001 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 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, 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 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): ■ 2015–18–51 Airbus Helicopters: Amendment 39–18284; Docket No. FAA–2015–3877; Directorate Identifier 2015–SW–039–AD. (a) Applicability This AD applies to Airbus Helicopters Model AS332C, AS332C1, AS332L, and AS332L1 helicopters with tail rotor (T/R) deicing installation unit part number (P/N) 204ZP01Y01 and T/R blade P/N 332A12– PO 00000 Frm 00006 Fmt 4700 Sfmt 4700 0055–XX (where XX is any dash number) installed, certificated in any category. (b) Unsafe Condition This AD defines the unsafe condition as uncontrolled and un-annunciated power supply to the T/R de-icing system, which could overheat the T/R blades. This condition could result in structural damage to the T/R blades and subsequent loss of control of the helicopter. (c) Effective Date This AD becomes effective October 20, 2015 to all persons except those persons to whom it was made immediately effective by Emergency AD 2015–18–51, issued on September 11, 2015, which contains the requirements of this AD. (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 Before further flight: (1) Inspect each T/R blade for a burn mark, any disbonding of the leading edge protection, and a crack at the junction of the skin and the leading edge protection. Examples of a burn mark, disbonding, and a crack are shown in the photos under paragraph 3.B.2., Accomplishment Instructions, of Airbus Helicopters Alert Service Bulletin No. AS332–05.01.02, Revision 0, dated July 22, 2015. If there is a burn mark, any disbonding of the leading edge protection, or a crack at the junction of the skin and the leading edge protection on a T/R blade, replace all of the T/R blades with airworthy T/R blades. (2) Deactivate the rotor de-icing system. (3) Revise Section 2, Limitations, of the Protective Equipment for Flight in Icing Conditions supplement to the rotorcraft flight manual by inserting the following: ROTOR DE–ICING SYSTEM IS DEACTIVATED. FLIGHT INTO KNOWN ICING IS PROHIBITED. (4) Install a placard with 6 millimeter red letters on a white background next to the rotors de-icing control panel that states the following: ROTOR DE–ICING SYSTEM IS DEACTIVATED. (f) Special Flight Permits Special flight permits will be permitted for flights to a location where the required inspection can be performed provided the flight does not exceed 5 hours time-inservice. (g) Alternative Methods of Compliance (AMOCs) (1) The Manager, Safety Management Group, FAA, may approve AMOCs for this AD. Send your proposal to: George Schwab, Aviation Safety Engineer, Safety Management Group, Rotorcraft Directorate, FAA, 10101 Hillwood Pkwy, Fort Worth, TX 76177; telephone (817) 222–5110; email 9-ASWFTW-AMOC-Requests@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 E:\FR\FM\05OCR1.SGM 05OCR1 Federal Register / Vol. 80, No. 192 / Monday, October 5, 2015 / Rules and Regulations 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 (1) Airbus Helicopters Alert Service Bulletin No. AS332–05.01.02, Revision 0, dated July 22, 2015, which is not incorporated by reference, contains additional information about the subject of this AD. For service information identified in this AD, contact Airbus Helicopters, 2701 N. Forum Drive, Grand Prairie, TX 75052; telephone (972) 641–0000 or (800) 232–0323; fax (972) 641–3775; or at https:// www.airbushelicopters.com/techpub. You may review a copy of the service information at the FAA, Office of the Regional Counsel, Southwest Region, 10101 Hillwood Pkwy., Room 6N–321, Fort Worth, TX 76177. (2) The subject of this AD is addressed in European Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) AD No. 2015–0153–E, dated July 24, 2015. You may view the EASA AD on the Internet at https://www.regulations.gov by searching for and locating it in Docket No. FAA–2015– 3877. (i) Subject Joint Aircraft Service Component (JASC) Code: 3060, Rotor De-Ice System. Issued in Fort Worth, Texas, on September 28, 2015. Lance T. Gant, Acting Directorate Manager, Rotorcraft Directorate, Aircraft Certification Service. [FR Doc. 2015–25217 Filed 10–2–15; 8:45 am] BILLING CODE 4910–13–P Background The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) Flight Services is revising FAA Order JO 7930.2, Notices to Airmen (NOTAM), which is scheduled to become effective no later than December 15, 2015. The following paragraphs will be incorporated into the next revision of FAA Order JO 7930.2. Paragraph 4–2–1a–14, Start of Activity/End of Validity, is ‘‘a 10-digit date-time group (YYMMDDHHMM) used to indicate the time at which the NOT AM comes into force (the date/ time a condition will exist or begin) and the time at which the NOTAM ceases to be in force and becomes invalid (the expected return to service, return to normal status time, or the time the activity will end).’’ Paragraph 4–2–1a–14(a) further specifies, that if the NOTAM duration is expected to return to service prior to the End of Validity time, express the time by using a date- time group followed immediately by EST. The NOTAM Originator must cancel or replace any NOTAM that includes an EST before the NOTAM reaches its End of Validity time, as the NOTAM will now auto expire at the end of validity time, regardless of EST. Issued in Washington, DC, on September 23, 2015. Ernie Bilotto, Manager, U.S. NOTAMs. [FR Doc. 2015–25192 Filed 10–2–15; 8:45 am] DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION Federal Aviation Administration DEPARTMENT OF LABOR 14 CFR Chapter I Occupational Safety and Health Administration Change in EST Usage in Notice to Airmen (NOTAM) 29 CFR Parts 1910, 1926 Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), DOT. ACTION: Policy change. AGENCY: mstockstill on DSK4VPTVN1PROD with RULES [Docket Nos. S–016 (OSHA–S016–2006– 0646), OSHA–S215–2006–0063] This document provides clarity and guidance regarding the use of the contraction ‘‘EST’’, which stands for ‘‘Estimated’’, when appended to the end of validity time in a NOTAM. The FAA is taking this action to align NOTAM policy with International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) standards and recommended practices. DATES: Effective date: December 15, 2015. FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Gary Bobik (202–267–6524; gary.ctr.bobik@ faa.gov) or Lynette Jamison (540–422– 4761; lynette.m.jamison@faa.gov) SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: SUMMARY: VerDate Sep<11>2014 16:55 Oct 02, 2015 Jkt 238001 BILLING CODE 4910–13–P RIN 1218–AA32, 1218–AB67 Electrical Safety-Related Work Practices; Electric Power Generation, Transmission, and Distribution; Electrical Protective Equipment; Corrections Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA), Labor. ACTION: Correcting amendments. AGENCY: This document corrects the electrical safety-related work practices standard for general industry and the electric power generation, transmission, and distribution standards for general industry and construction to provide SUMMARY: PO 00000 Frm 00007 Fmt 4700 Sfmt 4700 60033 additional clarification regarding the applicability of the standards to certain operations, including some tree trimming work that is performed near (but that is not on or directly associated with) electric power generation, transmission, and distribution installations. This document also corrects minor errors in two minimum approach distance tables in the general industry and construction standards for electric power generation, transmission and distribution work. These correcting amendments are effective on October 5, 2015. DATES: FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: General information and press inquiries: Mr. Frank Meilinger, Office of Communications, Room N3647, OSHA, U.S. Department of Labor, 200 Constitution Avenue NW., Washington, DC 20210; telephone (202) 693–1999; email meilingerfrancis2@dol.gov. Technical information: Mr. William Perry, Directorate of Standards and Guidance, Room N3718, OSHA, U.S. Department of Labor, 200 Constitution Avenue NW., Washington, DC 20210; telephone (202) 693–1950 or fax (202) 693–1678; email perry.bill@dol.gov. This document revises certain language in OSHA’s standards to reflect the Agency’s intent about the scope of two general industry standards. First, this document revises language that mistakenly could be read as suggesting that the general industry electric power generation, transmission, and distribution standard covers certain tree-trimming work that is performed near, but that is not on or directly associated with, electric power generation, transmission, and distribution installations. This was never OSHA’s intent; rather, OSHA intended that the general industry electrical safety-related work practices standard cover such work. Similarly, OSHA is correcting language in its general industry electrical safety-related work practices standard to make clear that the standard covers other work performed by qualified persons that is near, but not on or directly associated with, both electric power generation, transmission, and distribution installations and certain other types of installations. This notice also corrects minor errors in two minimum approach distance tables in the general industry and construction standards for electric power generation, transmission and distribution work. SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: E:\FR\FM\05OCR1.SGM 05OCR1

Agencies

[Federal Register Volume 80, Number 192 (Monday, October 5, 2015)]
[Rules and Regulations]
[Pages 60030-60033]
From the Federal Register Online via the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]
[FR Doc No: 2015-25217]


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DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION

Federal Aviation Administration

14 CFR Part 39

[Docket No. FAA-2015-3877; Directorate Identifier 2015-SW-039-AD; 
Amendment 39-18284; AD 2015-18-51]
RIN 2120-AA64


Airworthiness Directives; Airbus Helicopters

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

ACTION: Final rule; request for comments.

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

SUMMARY: We are publishing a new airworthiness directive (AD) for 
Airbus Helicopters Model AS332C, AS332C1, AS332L, and AS332L1 
helicopters, which was sent previously to all known U.S. owners and 
operators of these helicopters. This AD requires inspecting certain 
tail rotor (T/R) blades, replacing the set of T/R blades if there is 
damage, deactivating the rotor de-icing system, revising the rotorcraft 
flight manual (RFM), and installing a placard. This AD is prompted by a 
report of a T/R de-icing system power supply box stuck in a ``closed'' 
position providing an uncontrolled and un-annunciated power supply to 
the system. These actions are intended to detect and prevent structural 
damage to the T/R blades caused by overheating, and subsequent loss of 
control of the helicopter.

DATES: This AD becomes effective October 20, 2015 to all persons except 
those persons to whom it was made immediately effective by Emergency AD 
2015-18-51, issued on September 11, 2015, which contains the 
requirements of this AD.
    We must receive comments on this AD by December 4, 2015.

ADDRESSES: You may send comments by any of the following methods:
     Federal eRulemaking Docket: Go to https://www.regulations.gov. Follow the online instructions for sending your 
comments electronically.
     Fax: 202-493-2251.
     Mail: Send comments to the U.S. Department of 
Transportation, Docket Operations, M-30, West Building Ground Floor, 
Room W12-140, 1200 New Jersey Avenue SE., Washington, DC 20590-0001.
     Hand Delivery: Deliver to the ``Mail'' address between 9 
a.m. and 5 p.m., Monday through Friday, except Federal holidays.

[[Page 60031]]

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-
3877; 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, the 
economic evaluation, any comments received, and other information. The 
street address for the Docket Operations Office (telephone 800-647-
5527) is in the ADDRESSES section. Comments will be available in the AD 
docket shortly after receipt.
    For service information identified in this AD, contact Airbus 
Helicopters, 2701 N. Forum Drive, Grand Prairie, TX 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, 10101 Hillwood Pkwy., Room 6N-321, Fort Worth, TX 
76177.

FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: George Schwab, Aviation Safety 
Engineer, Safety Management Group, Rotorcraft Directorate, FAA, 10101 
Hillwood Pkwy., Fort Worth, TX 76177; telephone (817) 222-5110; email 
george.schwab@faa.gov.

SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION:

Comments Invited

    This AD is a final rule that involves requirements affecting flight 
safety, and we did not provide you with notice and an opportunity to 
provide your comments prior to it becoming effective. However, we 
invite you to participate in this rulemaking by submitting written 
comments, data, or views. We also invite comments relating to the 
economic, environmental, energy, or federalism impacts that resulted 
from adopting this AD. The most helpful comments reference a specific 
portion of the AD, explain the reason for any recommended change, and 
include supporting data. To ensure the docket does not contain 
duplicate comments, commenters should send only one copy of written 
comments, or if comments are filed electronically, commenters should 
submit them only one time. We will file in the docket all comments that 
we receive, as well as a report summarizing each substantive public 
contact with FAA personnel concerning this rulemaking during the 
comment period. We will consider all the comments we receive and may 
conduct additional rulemaking based on those comments.

Discussion

    On September 11, 2015, we issued Emergency AD 2015-18-51 to correct 
an unsafe condition for Airbus Helicopters Model AS332C, AS332C1, 
AS332L, and AS332L1 helicopters with T/R de-icing installation unit 
part number (P/N) 204ZP01Y01 and T/R blade P/N 332A12-0055-XX (where XX 
is any dash number) installed. Emergency AD 2015-18-51 requires 
inspecting each T/R blade, replacing the set of T/R blades if there is 
damage, deactivating the rotor de-icing system, revising the RFM, and 
installing a placard. Emergency AD 2015-18-51 was sent previously to 
all known U.S. owners and operators of these helicopters and was 
prompted by a report of a T/R de-icing system power supply box stuck in 
a ``closed'' position providing an uncontrolled and un-annunciated 
power supply to the system. The T/R de-icing system is part of the 
entire rotor de-icing system.
    Emergency AD 2015-18-51 was prompted by AD No. 2015-0153-E, dated 
July 24, 2015, issued by EASA, which is the Technical Agent for the 
Member States of the European Union, to correct an unsafe condition for 
Airbus Helicopters Model AS332 C, AS332C1, AS332L, and AS332L1 
helicopters, equipped with T/R de-icing installation unit P/N 
204ZP01Y01 and T/R blade P/N 332A12-0055-XX (where XX represents any 
dash number). EASA advises of a report of a T/R blade that was 
overheated and damaged after application of alternating current (AC) 
from a ground power unit (GPU) following a flight during which the de-
icing system was used. Subsequent analysis determined failure of the 
power supply box stuck in the ``closed'' position caused the 
uncontrolled power supply to the rotor blade de-icing system and 
subsequent damage. EASA also states that its AD is considered an 
interim action and further AD action may follow.

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 the EASA and determined the unsafe condition 
exists and is likely to exist or develop on other helicopters of these 
same type designs.

Related Service Information

    Airbus Helicopters issued Alert Service Bulletin No. AS332-
05.01.02, Revision 0, dated July 22, 2015 (ASB), which specifies, 
before each flight and before starting at least one engine, if the 
applicable helicopter has been supplied external 115V/400Hz AC GPU with 
the rotor stationary or if the de-icing system has been used or tested 
using an AC GPU with the rotor stationary or spinning, visually 
inspecting the T/R blades for burn marks, detached leading edge 
protection, or cracks at the skin/leading edge protection junction. If 
at least one T/R blade is damaged, the ASB specifies replacing all of 
the T/R blades.

AD Requirements

    This AD requires, before further flight, inspecting each T/R blade 
for a burn mark, any disbonding of the leading edge protection, and a 
crack at the junction of the skin and the leading edge protection. If 
there is a burn mark, any disbonding of the leading edge protection, or 
a crack at the junction of the skin and the leading edge protection on 
a T/R blade, this AD requires replacing all of the T/R blades with 
airworthy T/R blades. This AD also requires deactivating the rotor de-
icing system, revising the RFM to state that the rotor de-icing system 
is deactivated and that flight into known icing is prohibited, and 
installing a placard stating that the rotor de-icing system is 
deactivated.

Differences Between This AD and the EASA AD

    The EASA AD allows operation of the rotor de-icing system with a 
recurring inspection of the T/R blades. This AD requires an initial 
inspection and prohibits operation of the rotor de-icing system by 
deactivating the rotor de-icing system, revising the RFM to state the 
rotor de-icing system is deactivated and flight into known icing is 
prohibited, and installing a placard stating that the rotor de-icing 
system is deactivated.

Interim Action

    We consider this AD to be an interim action. Once a modification to 
the rotor de-icing system design is evaluated, approved, and available, 
we might consider additional rulemaking.

Costs of Compliance

    We estimate that this AD affects 19 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. It 
takes about 1 work-hour to inspect the T/R blades for a cost of $85 per 
helicopter and $1,615 for the U.S.

[[Page 60032]]

fleet. It takes about 2 work-hours to deactivate the rotor de-icing 
system for a cost of $170 per helicopter and $3,230 for the U.S. fleet. 
It takes about 0.5 work-hour to revise the RFM for a cost of $43 per 
helicopter and $817 for the U.S. fleet. It takes about 0.5 work-hour 
and a negligible parts cost to install a placard for a cost of $43 per 
helicopter and $817 for the U.S. fleet. Replacing a set of T/R blades 
takes about 3 work-hours for a labor cost of $255 per helicopter. Parts 
for 4-blade T/R set cost $167,644 for a total replacement cost of 
$167,899 per helicopter. Parts for a 5-blade T/R set cost $209,555 for 
a total replacement cost of $209,810 per helicopter.

FAA's Justification and Determination of the Effective Date

    Providing an opportunity for public comments prior to adopting 
these AD requirements would delay implementing the safety actions 
needed to correct this known unsafe condition. Therefore, we found and 
continue to find that the risk to the flying public justifies waiving 
notice and comment prior to the adoption of this rule because the 
previously described unsafe condition can adversely affect the 
controllability of the helicopter and the initial required action must 
be accomplished before further flight.
    Since it was found that immediate corrective action was required, 
notice and opportunity for prior public comment before issuing this AD 
were impracticable and contrary to public interest and good cause 
existed to make the AD effective immediately by Emergency AD 2015-18-
51, issued on September 11, 2015, to all known U.S. owners and 
operators of these helicopters. These conditions still exist and the AD 
is hereby published in the Federal Register as an amendment to section 
39.13 of the Federal Aviation Regulations (14 CFR 39.13) to make it 
effective to all persons.

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 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, 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):

2015-18-51 Airbus Helicopters: Amendment 39-18284; Docket No. FAA-
2015-3877; Directorate Identifier 2015-SW-039-AD.

(a) Applicability

    This AD applies to Airbus Helicopters Model AS332C, AS332C1, 
AS332L, and AS332L1 helicopters with tail rotor (T/R) de-icing 
installation unit part number (P/N) 204ZP01Y01 and T/R blade P/N 
332A12-0055-XX (where XX is any dash number) installed, certificated 
in any category.

(b) Unsafe Condition

    This AD defines the unsafe condition as uncontrolled and un-
annunciated power supply to the T/R de-icing system, which could 
overheat the T/R blades. This condition could result in structural 
damage to the T/R blades and subsequent loss of control of the 
helicopter.

(c) Effective Date

    This AD becomes effective October 20, 2015 to all persons except 
those persons to whom it was made immediately effective by Emergency 
AD 2015-18-51, issued on September 11, 2015, which contains the 
requirements of this AD.

(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

    Before further flight:
    (1) Inspect each T/R blade for a burn mark, any disbonding of 
the leading edge protection, and a crack at the junction of the skin 
and the leading edge protection. Examples of a burn mark, 
disbonding, and a crack are shown in the photos under paragraph 
3.B.2., Accomplishment Instructions, of Airbus Helicopters Alert 
Service Bulletin No. AS332-05.01.02, Revision 0, dated July 22, 
2015. If there is a burn mark, any disbonding of the leading edge 
protection, or a crack at the junction of the skin and the leading 
edge protection on a T/R blade, replace all of the T/R blades with 
airworthy T/R blades.
    (2) Deactivate the rotor de-icing system.
    (3) Revise Section 2, Limitations, of the Protective Equipment 
for Flight in Icing Conditions supplement to the rotorcraft flight 
manual by inserting the following: ROTOR DE-ICING SYSTEM IS 
DEACTIVATED. FLIGHT INTO KNOWN ICING IS PROHIBITED.
    (4) Install a placard with 6 millimeter red letters on a white 
background next to the rotors de-icing control panel that states the 
following: ROTOR DE-ICING SYSTEM IS DEACTIVATED.

(f) Special Flight Permits

    Special flight permits will be permitted for flights to a 
location where the required inspection can be performed provided the 
flight does not exceed 5 hours time-in-service.

(g) Alternative Methods of Compliance (AMOCs)

    (1) The Manager, Safety Management Group, FAA, may approve AMOCs 
for this AD. Send your proposal to: George Schwab, Aviation Safety 
Engineer, Safety Management Group, Rotorcraft Directorate, FAA, 
10101 Hillwood Pkwy, Fort Worth, TX 76177; telephone (817) 222-5110; 
email 9-ASW-FTW-AMOC-Requests@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

[[Page 60033]]

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

    (1) Airbus Helicopters Alert Service Bulletin No. AS332-
05.01.02, Revision 0, dated July 22, 2015, which is not incorporated 
by reference, contains additional information about the subject of 
this AD. For service information identified in this AD, contact 
Airbus Helicopters, 2701 N. Forum Drive, Grand Prairie, TX 75052; 
telephone (972) 641-0000 or (800) 232-0323; fax (972) 641-3775; or 
at https://www.airbushelicopters.com/techpub. You may review a copy 
of the service information at the FAA, Office of the Regional 
Counsel, Southwest Region, 10101 Hillwood Pkwy., Room 6N-321, Fort 
Worth, TX 76177.
    (2) The subject of this AD is addressed in European Aviation 
Safety Agency (EASA) AD No. 2015-0153-E, dated July 24, 2015. You 
may view the EASA AD on the Internet at https://www.regulations.gov 
by searching for and locating it in Docket No. FAA-2015-3877.

(i) Subject

    Joint Aircraft Service Component (JASC) Code: 3060, Rotor De-Ice 
System.

    Issued in Fort Worth, Texas, on September 28, 2015.
Lance T. Gant,
Acting Directorate Manager, Rotorcraft Directorate, Aircraft 
Certification Service.
[FR Doc. 2015-25217 Filed 10-2-15; 8:45 am]
 BILLING CODE 4910-13-P
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