Airworthiness Directives; B-N Group Ltd. Airplanes, 13717-13719 [2016-05509]
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Federal Register / Vol. 81, No. 50 / Tuesday, March 15, 2016 / Rules and Regulations
DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION
Federal Aviation Administration
14 CFR Part 39
[Docket No. FAA–2015–7777; Directorate
Identifier 2015–CE–036–AD; Amendment
39–18432; AD 2016–06–01]
FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT:
RIN 2120–AA64
Airworthiness Directives; B–N Group
Ltd. Airplanes
Federal Aviation
Administration (FAA), Department of
Transportation (DOT).
ACTION: Final rule.
AGENCY:
asabaliauskas on DSK3SPTVN1PROD with RULES
VerDate Sep<11>2014
16:19 Mar 14, 2016
Jkt 238001
Raymond Johnston, Aerospace Engineer,
FAA, Small Airplane Directorate, 901
Locust, Room 301, Kansas City,
Missouri 64106; telephone: (816) 329–
4159; fax: (816) 329–3047; email:
raymond.johnston@faa.gov.
SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION:
Discussion
We are superseding an
airworthiness directive (AD) 2007–06–
06 for B–N Group Ltd. Models BN–2,
BN–2A, BN–2A–2, BN–2A–3, BN–2A–6,
BN–2A–8, BN–2A–9, BN–2A–20, BN–
2A–21, BN–2A–26, BN–2A–27, BN–2B–
20, BN–2B–21, BN–2B–26, BN–2B–27,
BN2A MK. III, BN2A MK. III–2, BN2A
MK. III–3 BN2A, BN2B, and BN2A
MKIII (all models on TCDS A17EU and
A29EU) airplanes. This AD results from
mandatory continuing airworthiness
information (MCAI) issued 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 cracks
in the inner shell of certain pitot/static
pressure heads. We are issuing this AD
to require actions to address the unsafe
condition on these products.
DATES: This AD is effective April 19,
2016.
The Director of the Federal Register
approved the incorporation by reference
of a certain publication listed in the AD
as of April 19, 2016.
ADDRESSES: You may examine the AD
docket on the Internet at https://
www.regulations.gov by searching for
and locating Docket No. FAA–2015–
7777; 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 20590.
For service information identified in
this AD, contact Britten-Norman
Aircraft Limited, Commodore House,
Mountbatten Business Centre, Millbrook
Road East, Southampton SO15 1HY,
United Kingdom; telephone: +44 20
3371 4000; fax: +44 20 3371 4001;
email: info@bnaircraft.com; Internet:
https://www.britten-norman.com/
customer-support/. You may view this
referenced service information at the
FAA, Small Airplane Directorate, 901
Locust, Kansas City, Missouri 64106.
SUMMARY:
For information on the availability of
this material at the FAA, call (816) 329–
4148. It is also available on the Internet
at https://www.regulations.gov by
searching for Docket No. FAA–2015–
7777.
We issued a notice of proposed
rulemaking (NPRM) to amend 14 CFR
part 39 by adding an AD that would
apply to B–N Group Ltd. Models BN–2,
BN–2A, BN–2A–2, BN–2A–3, BN–2A–6,
BN–2A–8, BN–2A–9, BN–2A–20, BN–
2A–21, BN–2A–26, BN–2A–27, BN–2B–
20, BN–2B–21, BN–2B–26, BN–2B–27,
BN2A MK. III, BN2A MK. III–2, BN2A
MK. III–3 BN2A, BN2B, and BN2A
MKIII (all models on TCDS A17EU and
A29EU) airplanes. That NPRM was
published in the Federal Register on
December 24, 2015 (80 FR 80291), and
proposed to supersede AD 2007–06–06,
Amendment 39–14987 (72 FR 12557;
March 16, 2007).
The NPRM proposed to correct an
unsafe condition for the specified
products and was based on mandatory
continuing airworthiness information
(MCAI) originated by an aviation
authority of another country. The MCAI
states that:
In 2005, occurrences were reported of
finding cracks in the inner shell of certain
pitot/static pressure heads, Part Number (P/
N) DU130–24.
This condition, if not detected and
corrected, could lead to incorrect readings on
the pressure instrumentation, e.g. altimeters,
vertical speed indicators (rate-of-climb) and
airspeed indicators, possibly resulting in
reduced control of the aeroplane.
To address this potential unsafe condition,
B–N Group issued Service Bulletin (SB) 310
to provide inspection and test instructions.
Consequently, CAA UK issued AD G–2005–
0034 (EASA approval 2005–6447) to require
repetitive inspections and leak tests and,
depending on findings, accomplishment of
applicable corrective action(s).
Subsequently, B–N Group published SB
310 issue 2, prompting EASA to issue AD
2006–0143 making reference to SB 310 at
issue 2, while the publication of BNA SB 310
issue 3 prompted EASA AD 2006–0143R1,
introducing BNA modification (mod) NB–M–
1728 (new pitot/static pressure head not
affected by the AD requirements) as optional
terminating action for the repetitive
inspections and leak tests.
Since that AD was issued, operators have
reported a number of premature failures of
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Frm 00005
Fmt 4700
Sfmt 4700
13717
the affected P/N DU130–24 pitot-static
probes.
Prompted by these reports, BNA issued SB
310 issue 4 to reduce the interval for the
inspections and leak tests.
For the reason described above, this AD
retains the requirements of EASA AD 2006–
0143R1, which is superseded, but requires
those actions at reduced intervals.
The MCAI can be found in the AD
docket on the Internet at: https://
www.regulations.gov/#!document
Detail;D=FAA-2015-7777-0002.
Comments
We gave the public the opportunity to
participate in developing this AD. We
received no comments on the NPRM or
on the determination of the cost to the
public.
Conclusion
We reviewed the relevant data and
determined that air safety and the
public interest require adopting the AD
as proposed except for minor editorial
changes. We have determined that these
minor changes:
• Are consistent with the intent that
was proposed in the NPRM (80 FR
80291, December 24, 2015) for
correcting the unsafe condition; and
• Do not add any additional burden
upon the public than was already
proposed in the NPRM (80 FR 80291,
December 24, 2015).
Related Service Information Under 1
CFR Part 51
We reviewed Britten-Norman Service
Bulletin Number SB 310, Issue 4, dated
September 25, 2015. The service
information describes procedures for
inspections, and if necessary,
replacement of the pitot/static pressure
head. 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 final rule.
Costs of Compliance
We estimate that this AD will affect
93 products of U.S. registry. We also
estimate that it would take about 1
work-hour per product to comply with
the basic requirements of this proposed
AD. The average labor rate is $85 per
work-hour.
Based on these figures, we estimate
the cost of this AD on U.S. operators to
be $7,905, or $85 per product.
In addition, we estimate that any
necessary follow-on actions would take
about 2 work-hours and require parts
costing $10,000, for a cost of $10,170
per product. We have no way of
determining the number of products
that may need these actions.
E:\FR\FM\15MRR1.SGM
15MRR1
13718
Federal Register / Vol. 81, No. 50 / Tuesday, March 15, 2016 / Rules and Regulations
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 above, I
certify this AD:
(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.
asabaliauskas on DSK3SPTVN1PROD 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–
7777; 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 the NPRM, 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.
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16:19 Mar 14, 2016
Jkt 238001
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
removing Amendment 39–14987 (72 FR
12557; March 16, 2007) and adding the
following new AD:
■
2016–06–01 B–N Group Ltd.: Amendment
39–18432; Docket No. FAA–2015–7777;
Directorate Identifier 2015–CE–036–AD.
(a) Effective Date
This airworthiness directive (AD) becomes
effective April 19, 2016.
(b) Affected ADs
This AD supersedes AD 2007–06–06,
Amendment 39–14987 (72 FR 12557; March
16, 2007).
(c) Applicability
This AD applies to B–N Group Ltd. Models
BN–2, BN–2A, BN–2A–2, BN–2A–3, BN–2A–
6, BN–2A–8, BN–2A–9, BN–2A–20, BN–2A–
21, BN–2A–26, BN–2A–27, BN–2B–20, BN–
2B–21, BN–2B–26, BN–2B–27, BN2A MK. III,
BN2A MK. III–2, BN2A MK. III–3 BN2A,
BN2B, and BN2A MKIII, BN2A, BN2B, and
BN2A MKIII (all models on TCDS A17EU
and A29EU) airplanes, all serial numbers,
certificated in any category.
(d) Subject
Air Transport Association of America
(ATA) Code 34: Navigation.
(e) Reason
This AD was prompted by mandatory
continuing airworthiness information (MCAI)
issued 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 cracks in
the inner shell of certain pitot/static pressure
heads. We are issuing this AD to correct
cracks of the inner shell of certain pitot/static
pressure heads for cracks; which could lead
to incorrect readings on the pressure
instrumentation, e.g. altimeters, vertical
speed indicators (rate-of-climb) and airspeed
indicators and possibly result in reduced
control of the airplane.
(f) Actions and Compliance
Unless already done, do the following
actions in paragraphs (f)(1) through (f)(4) of
this AD:
(1) For airplanes equipped with pitot/static
pressure head part number (P/N) DU130–24:
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Fmt 4700
Sfmt 4700
Within 50 hours time-in-service (TIS) after
April 19, 2016 (the effective date of this AD)
and repetitively thereafter at intervals not to
exceed 50 hours TIS, inspect the pitot/static
pressure head for cracks and/or separation
and perform a leak test following the
procedures in the action section of BrittenNorman Service Bulletin SB 310, Issue 4,
dated September 25, 2015.
(2) For airplanes equipped with pitot/static
pressure head part number (P/N) DU130–24:
If, during an inspection or test required in
paragraph (f)(1) of this AD discrepancies are
found, before further flight, replace the pitot/
static pressure head with an airworthy part.
(3) For airplanes equipped with pitot/static
pressure head part number (P/N) DU130–24:
Corrections performed on airplanes as
required in paragraph (f)(2) of this AD do not
constitute terminating action for the
repetitive actions required in paragraph (f)(1)
of this AD.
(4) For airplanes not equipped with a pitot/
static pressure head P/N DU130–24 on the
effective date of this AD: After April 19, 2016
(the effective date of this AD), do not install
a pitot/static pressure head P/N DU130–24.
(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: Raymond Johnston, Aerospace
Engineer, FAA, Small Airplane Directorate,
901 Locust, Room 301, Kansas City, Missouri
64106; telephone: (816) 329–4159; fax: (816)
329–3047; email: raymond.johnston@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.: 2015–0199, dated
October 7, 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–2015–7777.
For service information related to this AD,
contact Britten-Norman Aircraft Limited,
Commodore House, Mountbatten Business
Centre, Millbrook Road East, Southampton
SO15 1HY, United Kingdom; telephone: +44
20 3371 4000; fax: +44 20 3371 4001; email:
info@bnaircraft.com; Internet: https://
www.britten-norman.com/customer-support/.
You may review copies of the referenced
service information at the FAA, Small
Airplane Directorate, 901 Locust, Kansas
City, Missouri 64106. For information on the
availability of this material at the FAA, call
(816) 329–4148.
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15MRR1
Federal Register / Vol. 81, No. 50 / Tuesday, March 15, 2016 / Rules and Regulations
(i) 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) Britten-Norman Service Bulletin SB 310,
Issue 4, dated September 25, 2015.
(ii) Reserved.
(3) For Britten-Norman Aircraft Limited
service information identified in this AD,
contact Britten-Norman Aircraft Limited,
Commodore House, Mountbatten Business
Centre, Millbrook Road East, Southampton
SO15 1HY, United Kingdom; telephone: +44
20 3371 4000; fax: +44 20 3371 4001; email:
info@bnaircraft.com; Internet: https://
www.britten-norman.com/customer-support/.
(4) You may review copies of the
referenced service information at the FAA,
Small Airplane Directorate, 901 Locust,
Kansas City, Missouri 64106. For information
on the availability of this material at the
FAA, call (816) 329–4148. In addition, you
can access this service information on the
Internet at https://www.regulations.gov by
searching for and locating Docket No. FAA–
2015–7777.
(5) You may view this service information
that is incorporated by reference at the
National Archives and Records
Administration (NARA). For information on
the availability of this material at NARA, call
202–741–6030, or go to: https://
www.archives.gov/federal-register/cfr/ibrlocations.html.
Issued in Kansas City, Missouri, on March
7, 2016.
Pat Mullen,
Acting Manager, Small Airplane Directorate,
Aircraft Certification Service.
[FR Doc. 2016–05509 Filed 3–14–16; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE 4910–13–P
DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION
Federal Aviation Administration
14 CFR Chapter I
[Docket No. FAA–2015–2022]
Petition of the Aircraft Owner and
Pilots Association (AOPA) To Amend
FAA Policy Concerning Flying Club
Operations at Federally Obligated
Airports
Federal Aviation
Administration (FAA), DOT.
ACTION: Final policy.
asabaliauskas on DSK3SPTVN1PROD with RULES
AGENCY:
The policy statement clarifies
the FAA’s policy interpretation
regarding the operation of flying clubs at
federally-obligated airports.
Specifically, this policy statement
amends FAA Order 5190.6B, Airport
Compliance Requirements, Section 10.6
SUMMARY:
VerDate Sep<11>2014
16:19 Mar 14, 2016
Jkt 238001
13719
Flying Clubs to allow the clubs to
compensate instructors and mechanics
who are club members for services
rendered to the Club. This policy
statement also amends the FAA’s
definition of flying clubs.
DATES: This action becomes effective
April 4, 2016.
FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT:
Miguel Vasconcelos, Airport
Compliance Division, ACO–100, Federal
Aviation Administration, 800
Independence Avenue SW.,
Washington, DC 20591, telephone (202)
267–3085; facsimile: (202) 267–4620.
SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION:
interested parties. Public comments
were received and considered, and
changes to the existing policy were
adopted.
Introduction and Background
On April 3, 2015, the Aircraft Owners
and Pilots Association (AOPA) Senior
Vice President for Government Affairs &
Advocacy wrote to the FAA’s Director of
the Office of Airport Compliance and
Management Analysis proposing
revisions to FAA’s current policy
regarding compensation for flight
instructors and persons maintaining
aircraft within the context of flying club
operations. AOPA stated in its letter that
it sought ‘‘to help current flying clubs
and airport sponsors comply with the
FAA guidance outlined in 5190.6B, and
to provide future flying clubs the
opportunity to strengthen and unify
general aviation pilots.’’ AOPA said that
its goal is ‘‘to provide guidance that is
attainable and ensures educated
compliance from all airport users,’’ and
asked for ‘‘updated guidance regarding
compensation for flight instructors and
maintainers’’ because ‘‘flight instructors
and aviation mechanics are valuable
assets to the aviation industry, and
should be granted the privilege of fair
compensation for their efforts on a local
level.’’
AOPA proposes clubs be permitted to
compensate member flight instructors
and member mechanics for services
rendered to the club or club members.
Such compensation, AOPA suggests,
should be monetary or in the form of
credit against payment of dues or flight
time.
The FAA requested comments on
whether AOPA’s recommendations are
consistent with the FAA’s general
policies regarding commercial
aeronautical services and on-airport
flying clubs, and if so, whether the
stated agency policy on flying clubs
should be revised to amend its
definition of flying clubs. In particular,
the FAA sought comments from
commercial service providers that
engage in flight training and aircraft
rental, from associations representing
such service providers, and other
the ownership of the club aircraft must be
vested in the name of the flying club or
owned by all its members. The property
rights of the members of the club shall be
equal; no part of the net earnings of the club
will inure to the benefit of any individual in
any form, including salaries, bonuses, etc.
The flying club may not derive greater
revenue from the use of its aircraft than the
amount needed for the operation,
maintenance, and replacement of its aircraft.
FAA Order 5190.6B at para. 10(6)(b).
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Frm 00007
Fmt 4700
Sfmt 4700
I. Current Policy
FAA Order 5190.6B, FAA Airport
Compliance Manual (Order), paragraph
10(6)(a), published on September 30,
2009, defines a flying club as: ‘‘a
nonprofit or not-for-profit entity (e.g.,
corporation, association, or partnership)
organized for the express purpose of
providing its members with aircraft for
their personal use and enjoyment only.’’
The Order states that,
The Order also notes that ‘‘flying
clubs may not offer or conduct . . .
aircraft rental operations. They may
conduct aircraft flight instruction for
regular members only, and only
members of the flying club may operate
the aircraft.’’ FAA Order 5190.6B at
para. 10.6(c)(1). The Order also states
that ‘‘no flying club shall permit its
aircraft to be used for flight instruction
for any person, including members of
the club owning the aircraft, when such
person pays or becomes obligated to pay
for such instruction. FAA Order
5190.6B at para. 10.6(c)(3). An
exception applies when the instruction
is given by a lessee based on the airport
who provides flight training and the
person receiving the training is a
member of the flying club. Id. Flight
instructors who are also club members
may not receive payment for instruction
except that they may be compensated by
credit against payment of dues or flight
time’’ and that ‘‘any qualified mechanic
who is a registered member and part
owner of the aircraft owned and
operated by a flying club may perform
maintenance work on aircraft owned by
the club. The flying club may not
become obligated to pay for such
maintenance work except that such
mechanics may be compensated by
credit against payment of dues or flight
time.’’ Flying clubs are defined in such
a way as to differentiate from for-profit
aeronautical businesses offering
aeronautical services to general public,
e.g., FBOs, flight schools and aircraft
rental providers.
E:\FR\FM\15MRR1.SGM
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Agencies
[Federal Register Volume 81, Number 50 (Tuesday, March 15, 2016)]
[Rules and Regulations]
[Pages 13717-13719]
From the Federal Register Online via the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]
[FR Doc No: 2016-05509]
[[Page 13717]]
-----------------------------------------------------------------------
DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION
Federal Aviation Administration
14 CFR Part 39
[Docket No. FAA-2015-7777; Directorate Identifier 2015-CE-036-AD;
Amendment 39-18432; AD 2016-06-01]
RIN 2120-AA64
Airworthiness Directives; B-N Group Ltd. Airplanes
AGENCY: Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), Department of
Transportation (DOT).
ACTION: Final rule.
-----------------------------------------------------------------------
SUMMARY: We are superseding an airworthiness directive (AD) 2007-06-06
for B-N Group Ltd. Models BN-2, BN-2A, BN-2A-2, BN-2A-3, BN-2A-6, BN-
2A-8, BN-2A-9, BN-2A-20, BN-2A-21, BN-2A-26, BN-2A-27, BN-2B-20, BN-2B-
21, BN-2B-26, BN-2B-27, BN2A MK. III, BN2A MK. III-2, BN2A MK. III-3
BN2A, BN2B, and BN2A MKIII (all models on TCDS A17EU and A29EU)
airplanes. This AD results from mandatory continuing airworthiness
information (MCAI) issued 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 cracks in the inner shell of
certain pitot/static pressure heads. We are issuing this AD to require
actions to address the unsafe condition on these products.
DATES: This AD is effective April 19, 2016.
The Director of the Federal Register approved the incorporation by
reference of a certain publication listed in the AD as of April 19,
2016.
ADDRESSES: You may examine the AD docket on the Internet at https://www.regulations.gov by searching for and locating Docket No. FAA-2015-
7777; 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 20590.
For service information identified in this AD, contact Britten-
Norman Aircraft Limited, Commodore House, Mountbatten Business Centre,
Millbrook Road East, Southampton SO15 1HY, United Kingdom; telephone:
+44 20 3371 4000; fax: +44 20 3371 4001; email: info@bnaircraft.com;
Internet: https://www.britten-norman.com/customer-support/. You may view
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.
It is also available on the Internet at https://www.regulations.gov by
searching for Docket No. FAA-2015-7777.
FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Raymond Johnston, Aerospace Engineer,
FAA, Small Airplane Directorate, 901 Locust, Room 301, Kansas City,
Missouri 64106; telephone: (816) 329-4159; fax: (816) 329-3047; email:
raymond.johnston@faa.gov.
SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION:
Discussion
We issued a notice of proposed rulemaking (NPRM) to amend 14 CFR
part 39 by adding an AD that would apply to B-N Group Ltd. Models BN-2,
BN-2A, BN-2A-2, BN-2A-3, BN-2A-6, BN-2A-8, BN-2A-9, BN-2A-20, BN-2A-21,
BN-2A-26, BN-2A-27, BN-2B-20, BN-2B-21, BN-2B-26, BN-2B-27, BN2A MK.
III, BN2A MK. III-2, BN2A MK. III-3 BN2A, BN2B, and BN2A MKIII (all
models on TCDS A17EU and A29EU) airplanes. That NPRM was published in
the Federal Register on December 24, 2015 (80 FR 80291), and proposed
to supersede AD 2007-06-06, Amendment 39-14987 (72 FR 12557; March 16,
2007).
The NPRM proposed to correct an unsafe condition for the specified
products and was based on mandatory continuing airworthiness
information (MCAI) originated by an aviation authority of another
country. The MCAI states that:
In 2005, occurrences were reported of finding cracks in the
inner shell of certain pitot/static pressure heads, Part Number (P/
N) DU130-24.
This condition, if not detected and corrected, could lead to
incorrect readings on the pressure instrumentation, e.g. altimeters,
vertical speed indicators (rate-of-climb) and airspeed indicators,
possibly resulting in reduced control of the aeroplane.
To address this potential unsafe condition, B-N Group issued
Service Bulletin (SB) 310 to provide inspection and test
instructions. Consequently, CAA UK issued AD G-2005-0034 (EASA
approval 2005-6447) to require repetitive inspections and leak tests
and, depending on findings, accomplishment of applicable corrective
action(s).
Subsequently, B-N Group published SB 310 issue 2, prompting EASA
to issue AD 2006-0143 making reference to SB 310 at issue 2, while
the publication of BNA SB 310 issue 3 prompted EASA AD 2006-0143R1,
introducing BNA modification (mod) NB-M-1728 (new pitot/static
pressure head not affected by the AD requirements) as optional
terminating action for the repetitive inspections and leak tests.
Since that AD was issued, operators have reported a number of
premature failures of the affected P/N DU130-24 pitot-static probes.
Prompted by these reports, BNA issued SB 310 issue 4 to reduce
the interval for the inspections and leak tests.
For the reason described above, this AD retains the requirements
of EASA AD 2006-0143R1, which is superseded, but requires those
actions at reduced intervals.
The MCAI can be found in the AD docket on the Internet at: https://www.regulations.gov/#!documentDetail;D=FAA-2015-7777-0002.
Comments
We gave the public the opportunity to participate in developing
this AD. We received no comments on the NPRM or on the determination of
the cost to the public.
Conclusion
We reviewed the relevant data and determined that air safety and
the public interest require adopting the AD as proposed except for
minor editorial changes. We have determined that these minor changes:
Are consistent with the intent that was proposed in the
NPRM (80 FR 80291, December 24, 2015) for correcting the unsafe
condition; and
Do not add any additional burden upon the public than was
already proposed in the NPRM (80 FR 80291, December 24, 2015).
Related Service Information Under 1 CFR Part 51
We reviewed Britten-Norman Service Bulletin Number SB 310, Issue 4,
dated September 25, 2015. The service information describes procedures
for inspections, and if necessary, replacement of the pitot/static
pressure head. 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
final rule.
Costs of Compliance
We estimate that this AD will affect 93 products of U.S. registry.
We also estimate that it would take about 1 work-hour per product to
comply with the basic requirements of this proposed AD. The average
labor rate is $85 per work-hour.
Based on these figures, we estimate the cost of this AD on U.S.
operators to be $7,905, or $85 per product.
In addition, we estimate that any necessary follow-on actions would
take about 2 work-hours and require parts costing $10,000, for a cost
of $10,170 per product. We have no way of determining the number of
products that may need these actions.
[[Page 13718]]
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 above, I certify this AD:
(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.
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-
7777; 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 the NPRM, 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.
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 removing Amendment 39-14987 (72 FR
12557; March 16, 2007) and adding the following new AD:
2016-06-01 B-N Group Ltd.: Amendment 39-18432; Docket No. FAA-2015-
7777; Directorate Identifier 2015-CE-036-AD.
(a) Effective Date
This airworthiness directive (AD) becomes effective April 19,
2016.
(b) Affected ADs
This AD supersedes AD 2007-06-06, Amendment 39-14987 (72 FR
12557; March 16, 2007).
(c) Applicability
This AD applies to B-N Group Ltd. Models BN-2, BN-2A, BN-2A-2,
BN-2A-3, BN-2A-6, BN-2A-8, BN-2A-9, BN-2A-20, BN-2A-21, BN-2A-26,
BN-2A-27, BN-2B-20, BN-2B-21, BN-2B-26, BN-2B-27, BN2A MK. III, BN2A
MK. III-2, BN2A MK. III-3 BN2A, BN2B, and BN2A MKIII, BN2A, BN2B,
and BN2A MKIII (all models on TCDS A17EU and A29EU) airplanes, all
serial numbers, certificated in any category.
(d) Subject
Air Transport Association of America (ATA) Code 34: Navigation.
(e) Reason
This AD was prompted by mandatory continuing airworthiness
information (MCAI) issued 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 cracks in the
inner shell of certain pitot/static pressure heads. We are issuing
this AD to correct cracks of the inner shell of certain pitot/static
pressure heads for cracks; which could lead to incorrect readings on
the pressure instrumentation, e.g. altimeters, vertical speed
indicators (rate-of-climb) and airspeed indicators and possibly
result in reduced control of the airplane.
(f) Actions and Compliance
Unless already done, do the following actions in paragraphs
(f)(1) through (f)(4) of this AD:
(1) For airplanes equipped with pitot/static pressure head part
number (P/N) DU130-24: Within 50 hours time-in-service (TIS) after
April 19, 2016 (the effective date of this AD) and repetitively
thereafter at intervals not to exceed 50 hours TIS, inspect the
pitot/static pressure head for cracks and/or separation and perform
a leak test following the procedures in the action section of
Britten-Norman Service Bulletin SB 310, Issue 4, dated September 25,
2015.
(2) For airplanes equipped with pitot/static pressure head part
number (P/N) DU130-24: If, during an inspection or test required in
paragraph (f)(1) of this AD discrepancies are found, before further
flight, replace the pitot/static pressure head with an airworthy
part.
(3) For airplanes equipped with pitot/static pressure head part
number (P/N) DU130-24: Corrections performed on airplanes as
required in paragraph (f)(2) of this AD do not constitute
terminating action for the repetitive actions required in paragraph
(f)(1) of this AD.
(4) For airplanes not equipped with a pitot/static pressure head
P/N DU130-24 on the effective date of this AD: After April 19, 2016
(the effective date of this AD), do not install a pitot/static
pressure head P/N DU130-24.
(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: Raymond Johnston, Aerospace Engineer, FAA,
Small Airplane Directorate, 901 Locust, Room 301, Kansas City,
Missouri 64106; telephone: (816) 329-4159; fax: (816) 329-3047;
email: raymond.johnston@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.:
2015-0199, dated October 7, 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-2015-7777. For service
information related to this AD, contact Britten-Norman Aircraft
Limited, Commodore House, Mountbatten Business Centre, Millbrook
Road East, Southampton SO15 1HY, United Kingdom; telephone: +44 20
3371 4000; fax: +44 20 3371 4001; email: info@bnaircraft.com;
Internet: https://www.britten-norman.com/customer-support/. You may
review copies of the referenced service information at the FAA,
Small Airplane Directorate, 901 Locust, Kansas City, Missouri 64106.
For information on the availability of this material at the FAA,
call (816) 329-4148.
[[Page 13719]]
(i) 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) Britten-Norman Service Bulletin SB 310, Issue 4, dated
September 25, 2015.
(ii) Reserved.
(3) For Britten-Norman Aircraft Limited service information
identified in this AD, contact Britten-Norman Aircraft Limited,
Commodore House, Mountbatten Business Centre, Millbrook Road East,
Southampton SO15 1HY, United Kingdom; telephone: +44 20 3371 4000;
fax: +44 20 3371 4001; email: info@bnaircraft.com; Internet: https://www.britten-norman.com/customer-support/.
(4) You may review copies of the referenced service information
at the FAA, Small Airplane Directorate, 901 Locust, Kansas City,
Missouri 64106. For information on the availability of this material
at the FAA, call (816) 329-4148. In addition, you can access this
service information on the Internet at https://www.regulations.gov by
searching for and locating Docket No. FAA-2015-7777.
(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 Kansas City, Missouri, on March 7, 2016.
Pat Mullen,
Acting Manager, Small Airplane Directorate, Aircraft Certification
Service.
[FR Doc. 2016-05509 Filed 3-14-16; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE 4910-13-P