Airworthiness Directives; Airbus Helicopters, 79466-79469 [2015-31849]

Download as PDF 79466 Federal Register / Vol. 80, No. 245 / Tuesday, December 22, 2015 / Rules and Regulations inspections of cam latch 1 and cam latch 2 for any cracks. (h) Repetitive MCD Post-Rigging Inspections and Corrective Actions At the applicable times specified in table 2 of paragraph 1.E., ‘‘Compliance,’’ of Boeing Alert Service Bulletin 757–52A0091, Revision 1, dated December 19, 2014: Do general visual inspections for any broken or missing cam latches, latch pins, and latch pin cross bolts; a detailed inspection of the cam latches and latch pins for any cracks, or any gouges in critical areas; and an HFEC or magnetic particle inspection of cam latch 1 and cam latch 2 for cracks; and do all applicable corrective actions, in accordance with the Accomplishment Instructions of Boeing Alert Service Bulletin 757–52A0091, Revision 1, dated December 19, 2014; except as required by paragraph (j)(2) of this AD. Do all applicable corrective actions before further flight. Repeat the inspections thereafter at the applicable times specified in table 2 of paragraph 1.E., ‘‘Compliance,’’ of Boeing Alert Service Bulletin 757–52A0091, Revision 1, dated December 19, 2014. (i) Parts Installation Prohibition As of the effective date of this AD, no person may install an alloy steel bolt as a cross bolt through any latch pin fitting assembly in the lower sill of the MCD on any airplane. (j) Exceptions to Service Bulletin Specifications The following exceptions apply in this AD. (1) Where Boeing Alert Service Bulletin 757–52A0091, Revision 1, dated December 19, 2014, specifies a compliance time after the original issue date of that service bulletin, this AD requires compliance within the specified compliance time after the effective date of this AD. (2) Where Boeing Alert Service Bulletin 757–52A0091, Revision 1, dated December 19, 2014, specifies to contact Boeing for appropriate action: Before further flight, repair using a method approved in accordance with the procedures specified in paragraph (l) of this AD. rmajette on DSK2TPTVN1PROD with RULES (k) Credit for Previous Actions This paragraph provides credit for the corresponding actions required by paragraphs (g) and (h) of this AD, if those actions were done before the effective date of this AD, using Boeing Alert Service Bulletin 757–52A0091, dated March 9, 2010, which is not incorporated by reference in this AD. (l) Alternative Methods of Compliance (AMOCs) (1) The Manager, Seattle Aircraft Certification Office (ACO), FAA, has the authority to approve AMOCs for this AD, if requested using the procedures found in 14 CFR 39.19. In accordance with 14 CFR 39.19, send your request to your principal inspector or local Flight Standards District Office, as appropriate. If sending information directly to the manager of the ACO, send it to the attention of the person identified in paragraph (m)(1) of this AD. Information may be emailed to: 9-ANM-Seattle-ACO-AMOCRequests@faa.gov. VerDate Sep<11>2014 15:05 Dec 21, 2015 Jkt 238001 (2) Before using 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. (3) An AMOC that provides an acceptable level of safety may be used for any repair, modification, or alteration required by this AD if it is approved by the Boeing Commercial Airplanes Organization Designation Authorization (ODA) that has been authorized by the Manager, Seattle ACO, to make those findings. To be approved, the repair method, modification deviation, or alteration deviation must meet the certification basis of the airplane and the approval must specifically refer to this AD. DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION (m) Related Information SUMMARY: (1) For more information about this AD, contact Kimberly DeVoe, Aerospace Engineer, Cabin Safety and Environmental Systems Branch, ANM–150S, FAA, Seattle Aircraft Certification Office, 1601 Lind Avenue SW., Renton, WA 98057–3356; phone: 425–917–6495; fax: 425–917–6590; email: kimberly.devoe@faa.gov. (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 (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 the AD specifies otherwise. (i) Boeing Alert Service Bulletin 757– 52A0091, Revision 1, dated December 19, 2014. (ii) Reserved. (3) For service information identified in this AD, contact Boeing Commercial Airplanes, Attention: Data & Services Management, P.O. Box 3707, MC 2H–65, Seattle, WA 98124–2207; telephone 206– 544–5000, extension 1; fax 206–766–5680; Internet https://www.myboeingfleet.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/ibr-locations.html. Issued in Renton, Washington, on November 25, 2015. Michael Kaszycki, Acting Manager, Transport Airplane Directorate, Aircraft Certification Service. [FR Doc. 2015–30818 Filed 12–21–15; 8:45 am] BILLING CODE 4910–13–P PO 00000 Frm 00008 Fmt 4700 Sfmt 4700 Federal Aviation Administration 14 CFR Part 39 [Docket No. FAA–2015–2714; Directorate Identifier 2014–SW–052–AD; Amendment 39–18349; AD 2015–26–01] RIN 2120–AA64 Airworthiness Directives; Airbus Helicopters Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), DOT. ACTION: Final rule. AGENCY: We are adopting a new airworthiness directive (AD) for Airbus Helicopters Model AS332C1, AS332L1, AS332L2, EC225LP, AS–365N2, AS 365 N3, EC 155B, and EC155B1 helicopters with an energy absorbing seat (seat). This AD requires inspecting for the presence of labels that prohibit stowing anything under the seat. If a label is missing or not clearly visible to each occupant, we require installing a label. This AD was prompted by the discovery that required labels had not been systematically installed. The actions of this AD are intended to prevent objects from being stowed under the seat as these objects could reduce the energyabsorbing function of the seat, resulting in injury to the seat occupants during an accident. DATES: This AD is effective January 26, 2016. The Director of the Federal Register approved the incorporation by reference of certain documents listed in this AD as of January 26, 2016. ADDRESSES: For service information identified in this final rule, contact Airbus Helicopters, Inc., 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. 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– 2714; 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 E:\FR\FM\22DER1.SGM 22DER1 Federal Register / Vol. 80, No. 245 / Tuesday, December 22, 2015 / Rules and Regulations Since the NPRM was issued, the FAA Southwest Regional Office has relocated and a group email address has been established for requesting an FAA Alternative Methods of Compliance (AMOC) for a helicopter of foreign design. Therefore, we have revised the physical address throughout the AD and the email address for requesting an AMOC. Discussion rmajette on DSK2TPTVN1PROD with RULES 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: Robert Grant, Aviation Safety Engineer, Safety Management Group, FAA, 2601 Meacham Blvd., Fort Worth, Texas 76137; telephone (817) 222–5110; email robert.grant@faa.gov. SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: FAA’s Determination On July 14, 2015, at 80 FR 40947, 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 AS332C1, AS332L1, AS332L2, EC225LP, AS– 365N2, AS 365 N3, EC 155B, and EC155B1 helicopters with certain energy absorbing seats. The NPRM proposed to require inspecting for the presence of labels that would prohibit stowing anything under the seat. If a label is missing or not clearly visible to each occupant, the NPRM proposed to require installing a label. The proposed requirements were intended to prevent objects from being stowed under the seat as these objects could reduce the energy-absorbing function of the seat, resulting in injury to the seat occupants during an accident. The NPRM was prompted by AD No. 2014–0204, dated September 11, 2014, and corrected September 12, 2014, by EASA, which is the Technical Agent for the Member States of the European Union, to correct an unsafe condition for Airbus Helicopters Model AS332C1, AS332L1, AS332L2, EC225LP, AS– 365N2, AS 365 N3, EC 155B, and EC155B1 helicopters. EASA advises that during certification of an energy absorbing seat with a new part number, the labels that require keeping the space under the seat free of any object were not systematically installed. EASA states that this condition, if not corrected, could prompt occupants to stow objects under an energy absorbing seat, which would reduce the effectiveness of the seat and the occupants’ chance of surviving an accident. The EASA AD consequently requires a one-time inspection for the presence of labels and, if they are missing or unreadable, making and installing labels prohibiting the placing of an object under an energy absorbing seat. VerDate Sep<11>2014 15:05 Dec 21, 2015 Jkt 238001 Comments We gave the public the opportunity to participate in developing this AD, but we received no comments on the NPRM (80 FR 40947, July 14, 2015). 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 France 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. Related Service Information Under 1 CFR Part 51 Airbus Helicopters issued Alert Service Bulletin (ASB) No. AS332– 01.00.85 for Model AS332C1, AS332L1, and AS332L2 helicopters; ASB No. AS365–01.00.66 for Model AS–365N2 and AS 365 N3 helicopters; ASB No. EC155–04A013 for EC 155B and EC155B1 helicopters; and ASB No. EC225–04A012 for Model EC225LP helicopters. All ASBs are Revision 0 and dated August 26, 2014. The ASBs state that during certification of an energy absorbing seat with a new part number, it was observed that the label, which indicates that the space under the seats must remain free of objects, was not systematically installed. Objects stowed under these seats reduce the energy absorbing function and thus jeopardize the occupant’s survival in the event of a crash, the ASBs state. Pending a definitive solution, Airbus Helicopters calls for affixing a label that states that nothing can be stored under the seats. 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. PO 00000 Frm 00009 Fmt 4700 Sfmt 4700 79467 Costs of Compliance We estimate that this AD affects 52 helicopters of U.S. Registry and that labor costs average $85 a work-hour. Based on these estimates, we expect that the inspection for the presence of a label takes a quarter work-hour for a labor cost of about $21. The cost of parts and time for installing a label are minimal, for a total cost of $21 per helicopter and $1,092 for the U.S. 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. E:\FR\FM\22DER1.SGM 22DER1 79468 Federal Register / Vol. 80, No. 245 / Tuesday, December 22, 2015 / Rules and Regulations List of Subjects in 14 CFR Part 39 Air transportation, Aircraft, Aviation safety, Incorporation by reference, Safety. PART 39—AIRWORTHINESS DIRECTIVES 1. The authority citation for part 39 continues to read as follows: ■ Adoption of the Amendment Authority: 49 U.S.C. 106(g), 40113, 44701. § 39.13 Accordingly, under the authority delegated to me by the Administrator, the FAA amends 14 CFR part 39 as follows: [Amended] 2. The FAA amends § 39.13 by adding the following new airworthiness directive (AD): ■ 2015–26–01 Airbus Helicopters: Amendment 39–18349; Docket No. FAA–2015–2714; Directorate Identifier 2014–SW–052–AD. (a) Applicability This AD applies to Airbus Helicopters Model AS332C1, AS332L1, AS332L2, EC225LP, AS–365N2, AS 365 N3, EC 155B, and EC155B1 helicopters with an energy absorbing seat (seat) listed in Figure 1 to paragraph (a) of this AD, certificated in any category. FIGURE 1 TO PARAGRAPH (a) Seat manufacturer Seat type Generic part No. Fischer + Entwicklungen ......................................................................................................................... H110 .............................. H140 .............................. H160 .............................. 185/410 .......................... 236/406 .......................... Sicma 192 ...................... Sicma 159 ...................... 9606-()-()-() 0520-()-()-() 0718-()-()-()-() 9507-()-()-() 9608-()-()-() 192xx-xx-xx 1591718-xx 159110 2510102-xx-xx 2010107-xx-xx 2520120-xx SICMA Aero Seat or Zodiac Seats France ............................................................................................ Socea Sogerma ...................................................................................................................................... Note 1 to Figure 1 to paragraph (a) of this AD: ‘‘xx’’ can be any two alphanumeric characters and ‘‘()’’ can be any number of alphanumeric characters. (b) Unsafe Condition This AD defines the unsafe condition as an object stowed under an energy absorbing seat. This condition could reduce the efficiency of the energy-absorbing function of the seat, resulting in injury to the seat occupants during an accident. (c) Effective Date This AD becomes effective January 26, 2016. (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. rmajette on DSK2TPTVN1PROD with RULES (e) Required Actions Within 110 hours time in service: (1) For Model AS332C1, AS332L1, AS332L2, and EC225LP helicopters: (i) Inspect the cabin and cockpit for labels, placards, or markings that prohibit stowing anything under the seats in the locations shown in the figure in the Appendix of Airbus Helicopters Alert Service Bulletin No. AS332–01.00.85 (ASB AS332–01.00.85) or No. EC225–04A012 (ASB EC225–04A012), both Revision 0 and dated August 26, 2014, as applicable for your model helicopter. (ii) If a label, placard, or marking is not located in every location depicted in the figure in the Appendix or is not visible and legible to every occupant, before further flight, install a placard in accordance with the Accomplishment Instructions, paragraph 3.B., of ASB AS332–01.00.85 or ASB EC225– VerDate Sep<11>2014 15:05 Dec 21, 2015 Jkt 238001 04A012, as applicable for your model helicopter. (2) For Model AS–365N2, AS 365 N3, EC 155B, and EC155B1 helicopters: (i) Inspect each seat leg in the cabin and cockpit for labels, placards, or markings that prohibit stowing anything under the seats. (ii) If a label, placard, or marking does not exist on one leg of each seat or is not visible and legible, before further flight, install a placard in accordance with the Accomplishment Instructions, paragraph 3.B., and the Appendix of Airbus Helicopters Alert Service Bulletin No. AS365–01.00.66 or No. EC155–04A013, both Revision 0 and dated August 26, 2014, as applicable for your model helicopter. (f) Alternative Methods of Compliance (AMOCs) (1) The Manager, Safety Management Group, FAA, may approve AMOCs for this AD. Send your proposal to: Robert Grant, Aviation Safety Engineer, Safety Management Group, FAA, 2601 Meacham Blvd., Fort Worth, Texas 76137; telephone (817) 222– 5110; email email 9-ASW-FTW-AMOCRequests@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. (g) Additional Information The subject of this AD is addressed in European Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) AD No. 2014–0204, dated September 11, 2014, and corrected September 12, 2014. You may view the EASA AD on the Internet at PO 00000 Frm 00010 Fmt 4700 Sfmt 4700 ST102 ............................ ST107 ............................ ST120 ............................ https://www.regulations.gov in Docket No. FAA–2015–2714. (h) Subject Joint Aircraft Service Component (JASC) Code: 1100, Placards and Markings. (i) 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) Airbus Helicopters Alert Service Bulletin No. AS332–01.00.85, Revision 0, dated August 26, 2014. (ii) Airbus Helicopters Alert Service Bulletin No. EC225–04A012, Revision 0, dated August 26, 2014. (iii) Airbus Helicopters Alert Service Bulletin No. AS365–01.00.66, Revision 0, dated August 26, 2014. (iv) Airbus Helicopters Alert Service Bulletin No. EC155–04A013, Revision 0, dated August 26, 2014. (3) For Airbus Helicopters service information identified in this AD, contact Airbus Helicopters, Inc., 2701 N. Forum Drive, Grand Prairie, TX 75052; telephone (972) 641–0000 or (800) 232–0323; fax (972) 641–3775; or at https://www.airbus helicopters.com/techpub. (4) You may view this service information at FAA, Office of the Regional Counsel, Southwest Region, 10101 Hillwood Pkwy, Room 6N–321, Fort Worth, TX 76177. 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 E:\FR\FM\22DER1.SGM 22DER1 Federal Register / Vol. 80, No. 245 / Tuesday, December 22, 2015 / Rules and Regulations 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 December 11, 2015. Lance T. Gant, Manager, Rotorcraft Directorate, Aircraft Certification Service. [FR Doc. 2015–31849 Filed 12–21–15; 8:45 am] BILLING CODE 4910–13–P airworthiness.A330-A340@airbus.com; Internet https://www.airbus.com. You may view this referenced 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. It is also available on the Internet at https:// www.regulations.gov by searching for and locating Docket No. FAA–2015– 0675. FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION Federal Aviation Administration 14 CFR Part 39 [Docket No. FAA–2015–0675; Directorate Identifier 2014–NM–213–AD; Amendment 39–18340; AD 2015–25–02] Discussion RIN 2120–AA64 Airworthiness Directives; Airbus Airplanes Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), Department of Transportation (DOT). ACTION: Final rule. AGENCY: We are adopting a new airworthiness directive (AD) for certain Airbus Model A330–200, –200 Freighter, and –300 series airplanes; and all Airbus Model A340–200, –300, –500, and –600 series airplanes. This AD was prompted by reports of cracks at certain frames of the forward cargo door. This AD requires a detailed inspection for cracking of certain forward cargo doors, and repair if necessary. We are issuing this AD to detect and correct cracking at certain frames, which could result in the loss of structural integrity of the forward cargo door. DATES: This AD becomes effective January 26, 2016. The Director of the Federal Register approved the incorporation by reference of a certain publication listed in this AD as of January 26, 2016. ADDRESSES: You may examine the AD docket on the Internet at https://www. regulations.gov/#!docketDetail;D=FAA2015-0675; or in person at the Docket Management Facility, U.S. Department of Transportation, Docket Operations, M–30, West Building Ground Floor, Room W12–140, 1200 New Jersey Avenue SE., Washington, DC. For service information identified in this AD, contact Airbus SAS, Airworthiness Office—EAL, 1 Rond Point Maurice Bellonte, 31707 Blagnac Cedex, France; telephone +33 5 61 93 36 96; fax +33 5 61 93 45 80; email rmajette on DSK2TPTVN1PROD with RULES SUMMARY: VerDate Sep<11>2014 15:05 Dec 21, 2015 Jkt 238001 Vladimir Ulyanov, Aerospace Engineer, International Branch, ANM–116, Transport Airplane Directorate, FAA, 1601 Lind Avenue SW., Renton, WA 98057–3356; telephone 425–227–1138; fax 425–227–1149. SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: We issued a notice of proposed rulemaking (NPRM) to amend 14 CFR part 39 by adding an AD that would apply to certain Airbus Model A330– 200, –200 Freighter, and –300 series airplanes; and all Airbus Model A340– 200, –300, –500, and –600 series airplanes. The NPRM published in the Federal Register on March 31, 2015 (80 FR 17000). We are issuing this AD to detect and correct cracking at certain frames, which could result in the loss of structural integrity of the forward cargo door. The European Aviation Safety Agency (EASA), which is the Technical Agent for the Member States of the European Union, has issued EASA Airworthiness Directive 2014–0228, dated October 20, 2014 (referred to after this as the Mandatory Continuing Airworthiness Information, or ‘‘the MCAI’’), to correct an unsafe condition for certain Airbus Model A330–200, –200 Freighter, and –300 series airplanes; and all Airbus Model A340–200, –300, –500, and –600 series airplanes. The MCAI states: An A330 aeroplane operator reported recently cases of crack findings on two different aeroplanes, at frame 20A and at frame 20B close to beam 3 of the forward cargo door. The first finding was detected during scheduled maintenance, while the second one was found during an inspection prompted by the first finding. Subsequent analyses of these cracks identified that the first crack initiated at frame 20B, which is the first primary load path, leading to excessive loads at frame 20A and consequent cracking. Nevertheless, on the other aeroplane, a crack was detected on frame 20A only. Rupture of both frames 20A and 20B could lead to frame 21 failure after a limited number of flight cycles (FC). This condition, if not detected and corrected, may potentially result in the loss of structural integrity of the forward cargo PO 00000 Frm 00011 Fmt 4700 Sfmt 4700 79469 door, which could ultimately jeopardise the aeroplane’s safe flight. Prompted by these findings, Airbus issued Alert Operators Transmission (AOT) A52L010–14 to provide instructions for a one-time inspection of frames 20A, 20B and 21 in the area of beam 3, until the half pitch between beam 2 and beam 3. For the reasons described above, this [EASA] AD requires identification of the Part Number (P/N) of the affected forward cargo doors, a one-time detailed inspection (DET) of each affected door and, depending on findings, accomplishment of applicable corrective action(s) [contacting Airbus]. This [EASA] AD is considered to be an interim action and further AD action may follow. Required actions also include sending inspection results to Airbus. You may examine the MCAI in the AD docket on the Internet at https://www.regulations. gov/#!documentDetail;D=FAA-20150675-0002. Correction for Service Information Typo On page 1 of Airbus AOT A52L010– 14, dated September 30, 2014, at section ‘‘2. Referenced Documentation,’’ ‘‘Ref. 5’’ specifies page block ‘‘PB.801,’’ which is incorrect. This page block should be ‘‘PB.401’’ instead. We have added new paragraph (k) to this AD to account for this correction, and have redesignated subsequent paragraphs. Comments We gave the public the opportunity to participate in developing this AD. The following presents the comments received on the NPRM (80 FR 17000, March 31, 2015) and the FAA’s response to each comment. Request To Revise Part Number List Sequencing American Airlines (AA) requested that we revise the proposed AD (80 FR 17000, March 31, 2015) by swapping the part numbers listed in paragraphs (g)(1)(ii) and (g)(1)(x) of the proposed AD to maintain alphanumeric order. American Airlines reasoned that the flow of the list is confusing. We agree to revise paragraphs (g)(1)(ii) and (g)(1)(x) of this AD for the reasons requested by American Airlines. Request for Justification AA asked whether a root cause has been determined that justifies the proposed inspection threshold. AA noted that paragraph (g)(1) of the proposed AD (80 FR 17000, March 31, 2015) proposed that inspections on all affected doors be completed within 200 flight cycles from the effective date of the AD. AA further noted from Airbus AOT A52L010–14, dated September 30, E:\FR\FM\22DER1.SGM 22DER1

Agencies

[Federal Register Volume 80, Number 245 (Tuesday, December 22, 2015)]
[Rules and Regulations]
[Pages 79466-79469]
From the Federal Register Online via the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]
[FR Doc No: 2015-31849]


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DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION

Federal Aviation Administration

14 CFR Part 39

[Docket No. FAA-2015-2714; Directorate Identifier 2014-SW-052-AD; 
Amendment 39-18349; AD 2015-26-01]
RIN 2120-AA64


Airworthiness Directives; Airbus Helicopters

AGENCY: Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), DOT.

ACTION: Final rule.

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SUMMARY: We are adopting a new airworthiness directive (AD) for Airbus 
Helicopters Model AS332C1, AS332L1, AS332L2, EC225LP, AS-365N2, AS 365 
N3, EC 155B, and EC155B1 helicopters with an energy absorbing seat 
(seat). This AD requires inspecting for the presence of labels that 
prohibit stowing anything under the seat. If a label is missing or not 
clearly visible to each occupant, we require installing a label. This 
AD was prompted by the discovery that required labels had not been 
systematically installed. The actions of this AD are intended to 
prevent objects from being stowed under the seat as these objects could 
reduce the energy-absorbing function of the seat, resulting in injury 
to the seat occupants during an accident.

DATES: This AD is effective January 26, 2016.
    The Director of the Federal Register approved the incorporation by 
reference of certain documents listed in this AD as of January 26, 
2016.

ADDRESSES: For service information identified in this final rule, 
contact Airbus Helicopters, Inc., 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.

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-
2714; 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

[[Page 79467]]

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: Robert Grant, Aviation Safety 
Engineer, Safety Management Group, FAA, 2601 Meacham Blvd., Fort Worth, 
Texas 76137; telephone (817) 222-5110; email robert.grant@faa.gov.

SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION:

Discussion

    On July 14, 2015, at 80 FR 40947, 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 AS332C1, AS332L1, AS332L2, EC225LP, AS-365N2, AS 365 N3, EC 155B, 
and EC155B1 helicopters with certain energy absorbing seats. The NPRM 
proposed to require inspecting for the presence of labels that would 
prohibit stowing anything under the seat. If a label is missing or not 
clearly visible to each occupant, the NPRM proposed to require 
installing a label. The proposed requirements were intended to prevent 
objects from being stowed under the seat as these objects could reduce 
the energy-absorbing function of the seat, resulting in injury to the 
seat occupants during an accident.
    The NPRM was prompted by AD No. 2014-0204, dated September 11, 
2014, and corrected September 12, 2014, by EASA, which is the Technical 
Agent for the Member States of the European Union, to correct an unsafe 
condition for Airbus Helicopters Model AS332C1, AS332L1, AS332L2, 
EC225LP, AS-365N2, AS 365 N3, EC 155B, and EC155B1 helicopters. EASA 
advises that during certification of an energy absorbing seat with a 
new part number, the labels that require keeping the space under the 
seat free of any object were not systematically installed. EASA states 
that this condition, if not corrected, could prompt occupants to stow 
objects under an energy absorbing seat, which would reduce the 
effectiveness of the seat and the occupants' chance of surviving an 
accident. The EASA AD consequently requires a one-time inspection for 
the presence of labels and, if they are missing or unreadable, making 
and installing labels prohibiting the placing of an object under an 
energy absorbing seat.
    Since the NPRM was issued, the FAA Southwest Regional Office has 
relocated and a group email address has been established for requesting 
an FAA Alternative Methods of Compliance (AMOC) for a helicopter of 
foreign design. Therefore, we have revised the physical address 
throughout the AD and the email address for requesting an AMOC.

Comments

    We gave the public the opportunity to participate in developing 
this AD, but we received no comments on the NPRM (80 FR 40947, July 14, 
2015).

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 France 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.

Related Service Information Under 1 CFR Part 51

    Airbus Helicopters issued Alert Service Bulletin (ASB) No. AS332-
01.00.85 for Model AS332C1, AS332L1, and AS332L2 helicopters; ASB No. 
AS365-01.00.66 for Model AS-365N2 and AS 365 N3 helicopters; ASB No. 
EC155-04A013 for EC 155B and EC155B1 helicopters; and ASB No. EC225-
04A012 for Model EC225LP helicopters. All ASBs are Revision 0 and dated 
August 26, 2014. The ASBs state that during certification of an energy 
absorbing seat with a new part number, it was observed that the label, 
which indicates that the space under the seats must remain free of 
objects, was not systematically installed. Objects stowed under these 
seats reduce the energy absorbing function and thus jeopardize the 
occupant's survival in the event of a crash, the ASBs state. Pending a 
definitive solution, Airbus Helicopters calls for affixing a label that 
states that nothing can be stored under the seats.
    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.

Costs of Compliance

    We estimate that this AD affects 52 helicopters of U.S. Registry 
and that labor costs average $85 a work-hour. Based on these estimates, 
we expect that the inspection for the presence of a label takes a 
quarter work-hour for a labor cost of about $21. The cost of parts and 
time for installing a label are minimal, for a total cost of $21 per 
helicopter and $1,092 for the U.S. 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.

[[Page 79468]]

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):

2015-26-01 Airbus Helicopters: Amendment 39-18349; Docket No. FAA-
2015-2714; Directorate Identifier 2014-SW-052-AD.

(a) Applicability

    This AD applies to Airbus Helicopters Model AS332C1, AS332L1, 
AS332L2, EC225LP, AS-365N2, AS 365 N3, EC 155B, and EC155B1 
helicopters with an energy absorbing seat (seat) listed in Figure 1 
to paragraph (a) of this AD, certificated in any category.

                        Figure 1 to Paragraph (a)
------------------------------------------------------------------------
       Seat manufacturer             Seat type        Generic part No.
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Fischer + Entwicklungen........  H110.............  9606-()-()-()
                                 H140.............  0520-()-()-()
                                 H160.............  0718-()-()-()-()
                                 185/410..........  9507-()-()-()
                                 236/406..........  9608-()-()-()
SICMA Aero Seat or Zodiac Seats  Sicma 192........  192xx-xx-xx
 France.
                                 Sicma 159........  1591718-xx
                                                    159110
Socea Sogerma..................  ST102............  2510102-xx-xx
                                 ST107............  2010107-xx-xx
                                 ST120............  2520120-xx
------------------------------------------------------------------------


    Note 1 to Figure 1 to paragraph (a) of this AD: ``xx'' can be 
any two alphanumeric characters and ``()'' can be any number of 
alphanumeric characters.

(b) Unsafe Condition

    This AD defines the unsafe condition as an object stowed under 
an energy absorbing seat. This condition could reduce the efficiency 
of the energy-absorbing function of the seat, resulting in injury to 
the seat occupants during an accident.

(c) Effective Date

    This AD becomes effective January 26, 2016.

(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

    Within 110 hours time in service:
    (1) For Model AS332C1, AS332L1, AS332L2, and EC225LP 
helicopters:
    (i) Inspect the cabin and cockpit for labels, placards, or 
markings that prohibit stowing anything under the seats in the 
locations shown in the figure in the Appendix of Airbus Helicopters 
Alert Service Bulletin No. AS332-01.00.85 (ASB AS332-01.00.85) or 
No. EC225-04A012 (ASB EC225-04A012), both Revision 0 and dated 
August 26, 2014, as applicable for your model helicopter.
    (ii) If a label, placard, or marking is not located in every 
location depicted in the figure in the Appendix or is not visible 
and legible to every occupant, before further flight, install a 
placard in accordance with the Accomplishment Instructions, 
paragraph 3.B., of ASB AS332-01.00.85 or ASB EC225-04A012, as 
applicable for your model helicopter.
    (2) For Model AS-365N2, AS 365 N3, EC 155B, and EC155B1 
helicopters:
    (i) Inspect each seat leg in the cabin and cockpit for labels, 
placards, or markings that prohibit stowing anything under the 
seats.
    (ii) If a label, placard, or marking does not exist on one leg 
of each seat or is not visible and legible, before further flight, 
install a placard in accordance with the Accomplishment 
Instructions, paragraph 3.B., and the Appendix of Airbus Helicopters 
Alert Service Bulletin No. AS365-01.00.66 or No. EC155-04A013, both 
Revision 0 and dated August 26, 2014, as applicable for your model 
helicopter.

(f) Alternative Methods of Compliance (AMOCs)

    (1) The Manager, Safety Management Group, FAA, may approve AMOCs 
for this AD. Send your proposal to: Robert Grant, Aviation Safety 
Engineer, Safety Management Group, FAA, 2601 Meacham Blvd., Fort 
Worth, Texas 76137; telephone (817) 222-5110; email 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 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.

(g) Additional Information

    The subject of this AD is addressed in European Aviation Safety 
Agency (EASA) AD No. 2014-0204, dated September 11, 2014, and 
corrected September 12, 2014. You may view the EASA AD on the 
Internet at https://www.regulations.gov in Docket No. FAA-2015-2714.

(h) Subject

    Joint Aircraft Service Component (JASC) Code: 1100, Placards and 
Markings.

(i) 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) Airbus Helicopters Alert Service Bulletin No. AS332-
01.00.85, Revision 0, dated August 26, 2014.
    (ii) Airbus Helicopters Alert Service Bulletin No. EC225-04A012, 
Revision 0, dated August 26, 2014.
    (iii) Airbus Helicopters Alert Service Bulletin No. AS365-
01.00.66, Revision 0, dated August 26, 2014.
    (iv) Airbus Helicopters Alert Service Bulletin No. EC155-04A013, 
Revision 0, dated August 26, 2014.
    (3) For Airbus Helicopters service information identified in 
this AD, contact Airbus Helicopters, Inc., 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.
    (4) You may view this service information at FAA, Office of the 
Regional Counsel, Southwest Region, 10101 Hillwood Pkwy, Room 6N-
321, Fort Worth, TX 76177. 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

[[Page 79469]]

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 December 11, 2015.
Lance T. Gant,
Manager, Rotorcraft Directorate, Aircraft Certification Service.
[FR Doc. 2015-31849 Filed 12-21-15; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE 4910-13-P
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