Airworthiness Directives; Honeywell International Inc. (Honeywell) Enhanced Ground Proximity Warning System (EGPWS), 25978-25980 [2017-11174]
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25978
Federal Register / Vol. 82, No. 107 / Tuesday, June 6, 2017 / Proposed Rules
(k) Related Information
(1) Refer to Mandatory Continuing
Airworthiness Information (MCAI) EASA
Airworthiness Directive 2016–0129, dated
June 23, 2016, for related information. This
MCAI may be found in the AD docket on the
Internet at https://www.regulations.gov by
searching for and locating Docket No. FAA–
2017–0529.
(2) For more information about this AD,
contact Tom Rodriguez, Aerospace Engineer,
International Branch, ANM–116, Transport
Airplane Directorate, FAA, 1601 Lind
Avenue SW., Renton, WA 98057–3356;
telephone 425–227–1137; fax 425–227–1149.
(3) For service information identified in
this AD, contact Dassault Falcon Jet
Corporation, Teterboro Airport, P.O. Box
2000, South Hackensack, NJ 07606;
telephone 201–440–6700; Internet https://
www.dassaultfalcon.com. 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.
Issued in Renton, Washington, on May 23,
2017.
Michael Kaszycki,
Acting Manager, Transport Airplane
Directorate, Aircraft Certification Service.
[FR Doc. 2017–11259 Filed 6–5–17; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE 4910–13–P
DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION
Federal Aviation Administration
14 CFR Part 39
[Docket No. FAA–2017–0492; Directorate
Identifier 2016–SW–025–AD]
RIN 2120–AA64
Airworthiness Directives; Honeywell
International Inc. (Honeywell)
Enhanced Ground Proximity Warning
System (EGPWS)
Federal Aviation
Administration (FAA), DOT.
ACTION: Notice of proposed rulemaking
(NPRM).
AGENCY:
We propose to adopt a new
airworthiness directive (AD) for various
normal and transport category rotorcraft
with certain Honeywell EGPWS
installed. This proposed AD would
require updating the software version of
the EGPWS. This proposed AD is
prompted by a software defect that
prevents the EGPWS from providing
terrain warnings. The proposed actions
are intended to address an unsafe
condition on these products.
DATES: We must receive comments on
this proposed AD by August 7, 2017.
ADDRESSES: You may send comments by
any of the following methods:
mstockstill on DSK30JT082PROD with PROPOSALS
SUMMARY:
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• 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.
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–2017–
0492; 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 proposed 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 proposed rule, contact Honeywell
International Inc., 15001 NE. 36 Street,
Redmond, Washington 98052–5317;
telephone (800) 601–3099; internet
address www.myaerospace.com. 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: Judy
Heredia, Aviation Safety Engineer, Los
Angeles Aircraft Certification Office,
Transport Airplane Directorate, FAA,
3960 Paramount Blvd., Lakewood,
California 90712; telephone (562) 627–
5335; email judy.heredia@faa.gov.
SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION:
of written comments, or if comments are
filed electronically, commenters should
submit 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 proposed rulemaking.
Before acting on this proposal, we will
consider all comments we receive on or
before the closing date for comments.
We will consider comments filed after
the comment period has closed if it is
possible to do so without incurring
expense or delay. We may change this
proposal in light of the comments we
receive.
Comments Invited
Discussion
We propose to adopt a new AD for
Honeywell MK XXI EGPWS part
number (P/N) 965–1227–005 and MK
XXII EGPWS P/N 965–1595–020, P/N
965–1595–021, 965–1595–022, 965–
1595–024, 965–1595–026, 965–1595–
028, and 965–1595–030 installed on
various normal and transport category
helicopters from five manufacturers.
This proposed AD would require
updating the software of the EGPWS.
This proposed AD is prompted by a
software defect found by Honeywell in
certain MK XXI and MK XXII EGPWSs
during testing. The testing revealed the
terrain alerting feature will not function
as intended in certain specific
geographical areas under altitudes of
175-feet mean sea level (MSL).
According to Honeywell, the terrain
display is not affected by the defect and
will correctly present terrain and its
corresponding elevation information.
However, in some locations, the EGPWS
will not issue a warning or caution for
terrain, water, or obstacles below 175
feel MSL. Without this feature of the
EGPWS, the helicopter could potentially
operate into threatening terrain or
obstacles without providing any
warning to the crew, resulting in loss of
the helicopter. Since the defect was
discovered, Honeywell has developed a
software modification (MOD) that
corrects this condition.
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 might result
from adopting the proposals in this
document. The most helpful comments
reference a specific portion of the
proposal, 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
Record of Ex Parte Communication
In preparation of AD actions such as
notices of proposed rulemaking and
immediately adopted final rules, it is
the practice of the FAA to obtain
technical information and information
on the operational and economic impact
from design approval holders and
aircraft operators. We discussed certain
aspects of this proposed AD by email
with Honeywell. A copy of each email
contact can be found in the rulemaking
docket. For information on locating the
docket, see ‘‘Examining the AD Docket.’’
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Federal Register / Vol. 82, No. 107 / Tuesday, June 6, 2017 / Proposed Rules
FAA’s Determination
We are proposing this AD because we
evaluated all known relevant
information and determined that an
unsafe condition exists and is likely to
exist or develop on other helicopters of
these same type designs.
Related Service Information Under 1
CFR Part 51
We reviewed Honeywell Service
Bulletin (SB) 965–1227–34–0001,
Revision 0, dated May 4, 2015 (SB 965–
1227–34–0001); Honeywell SB 965–
1595–34–0034, Revision 0, dated
February 18, 2015 (SB 965–1595–34–
0034); and Honeywell SB 965–1595–34–
0035, Revision 0, dated March 25, 2015
(SB 965–1595–34–0035). SB 965–1227–
34–0001 specifies procedures for
installing and verifying a software MOD
to a certain part-numbered MK XXI
EGPWS and for replacing the front
panel label identifying the software
version. SB 965–1595–34–0034 specifies
procedures for installing and verifying a
software MOD to certain part-numbered
MK XXII EGPWS and for replacing the
front panel label identifying the
software version. SB 965–1595–34–0035
specifies procedures for installing and
verifying a software MOD to certain
part-numbered MK XXII EGPWS and for
replacing the front panel label
identifying the software version. This
service information also states that
terrain database version 437 must be
installed prior to updating the EGPWS
software.
This service information is reasonably
available because the interested parties
have access to it through their normal
course of business or by the means
identified in the ADDRESSES section of
this NPRM.
Other Related Service Information
We also reviewed Honeywell SB ATA
No. 965–1590/1595–34–18, dated July
30, 2004. This service information
contains procedures for updating the
MK XXII EGPWS with terrain database
version 437 and verifying the updated
software was successfully installed.
mstockstill on DSK30JT082PROD with PROPOSALS
Proposed AD Requirements
By following certain procedures in the
manufacturer’s service bulletin, this
proposed AD would require, within
1,080 hours time-in-service (TIS),
installing terrain database version 437 if
not already installed; updating,
installing, and confirming software
MOD 1 or MOD 2 as determined by the
model and serial number of the EGPWS;
and replacing the software version label
on the EGPWS front face.
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Differences Between This Proposed AD
and the Service Information
The service information requires the
software MODs to be accomplished
within 60 months, while this proposed
AD would require compliance within
1,080 hours TIS.
Costs of Compliance
We estimate that this proposed AD
would affect 3,000 appliances installed
on helicopters of U.S. Registry.
We estimate that operators may incur
the following costs in order to comply
with this proposed AD. At an average
labor rate of $85 per hour, updating and
confirming the software and replacing
the software version label would require
about 0.5 work-hour, and required parts
would cost $2,500, for a total cost of
$2,543 per helicopter and $7,629,000 for
the U.S. fleet.
According to Honeywell’s service
information all of the costs of this
proposed AD may be covered under
warranty, thereby reducing the cost
impact on affected individuals. We do
not control warranty coverage by
Honeywell. Accordingly, we have
included all costs in our cost estimate.
Authority for This Rulemaking
Title 49 of the United States Code
specifies the FAA’s authority to issue
rules on aviation safety. Subtitle I,
section 106, describes the authority of
the FAA Administrator. ‘‘Subtitle VII:
Aviation Programs,’’ describes in more
detail the scope of the Agency’s
authority.
We are issuing this rulemaking under
the authority described in ‘‘Subtitle VII,
Part A, Subpart III, Section 44701:
General requirements.’’ Under that
section, Congress charges the FAA with
promoting safe flight of civil aircraft in
air commerce by prescribing regulations
for practices, methods, and procedures
the Administrator finds necessary for
safety in air commerce. This regulation
is within the scope of that authority
because it addresses an unsafe condition
that is likely to exist or develop on
products identified in this rulemaking
action.
Regulatory Findings
We determined that this proposed AD
would not have federalism implications
under Executive Order 13132. This
proposed AD would not have a
substantial direct effect on the States, on
the relationship between the national
Government and the States, or on the
distribution of power and
responsibilities among the various
levels of government.
For the reasons discussed, I certify
this proposed regulation:
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25979
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 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 proposed 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.
The Proposed Amendment
Accordingly, under the authority
delegated to me by the Administrator,
the FAA proposes to amend 14 CFR part
39 as follows:
PART 39—AIRWORTHINESS
DIRECTIVES
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):
■
Honeywell International, Inc. (Honeywell):
Docket No. FAA–2017–0492; Directorate
Identifier 2016–SW–025–AD.
(a) Applicability
This AD applies to Honeywell MK XXI
Enhanced Ground Proximity Warning System
(EGPWS) part number (P/N) 965–1227–005
with software modification (MOD) 1 and MK
XXII EGPWS P/N 965–1595–020 with MOD
1, P/N 965–1595–021 with MOD 1, 965–
1595–022 with MOD 1, 965–1595–024 with
MOD 1, 965–1595–026 with MOD 1, 965–
1595–028 with MOD 0, and 965–1595–030
with MOD 0. These EGPWSs are installed on,
but not limited to, the following helicopters,
certificated in any category:
(1) Agusta S.p.A. Model A109 and AW139;
(2) Airbus Helicopters Model AS350B,
AS350B1, AS350B2, AS350B3, AS350BA,
AS350C, AS350D, AS350D1, AS355E,
AS355F, AS355F1, AS355F2, AS355N,
AS355NP, SA–365N, EC130B4, EC130T2, EC
155B, EC155B1, and EC225LP;
(3) Airbus Helicopters Deutschland GmbH
Model EC135P1, EC135P2, EC135P2+,
EC135P3, EC135T1, EC135T2, EC135T2+,
and EC135T3;
(4) Bell Helicopter Textron Inc. Model 212
and 412;
(5) Bell Helicopter Textron Canada Limited
Model 407;
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Federal Register / Vol. 82, No. 107 / Tuesday, June 6, 2017 / Proposed Rules
(6) Bell Helicopter Textron Model 430;
(7) MD Helicopters, Inc. Model MD900;
and
(8) Sikorsky Aircraft Corporation Model S–
76B, S–76C, S–76D, and S–92A.
(b) Unsafe Condition
This AD defines the unsafe condition as
failure of an EGPWS to generate a terrain
warning, which could result in flight into
terrain.
(c) Comments Due Date
We must receive comments by August 7,
2017.
(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.
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(e) Required Actions
Within 1,080 hours time-in-service:
(1) Install terrain database version 437 if
not already installed.
(2) For helicopters with an MK XXI
EGPWS P/N 965–1227–005:
(i) Update the software by following the
Accomplishment Instructions, paragraphs
3.B.(1)(a) through 3.B.(1)(j), of Honeywell
Service Bulletin (SB) 965–1227–34–0001,
Revision 0, dated May 4, 2015 (SB 965–1227–
34–0001).
(ii) Determine whether the software
updated by following paragraphs 3.B.(2)(a)
through 3.B.(2)(d) of SB 965–1227–34–0001.
(iii) Install a new software version label on
the EGPWS by following paragraph 3.D.(1) or
3.D.(2), as appropriate for your model
EGPWS, of SB 965–1227–34–0001.
(3) For helicopters with an MK XXII
EGPWS P/N 965–1595–020, P/N 965–1595–
021, or P/N 965–1595–022:
(i) Update the software by following the
Accomplishment Instructions, paragraphs
3.C.(1)(a) through (h), of Honeywell SB 965–
1595–34–0035, Revision 0, dated March 25,
2015 (SB 965–1595–34–0035).
(ii) Determine whether the software
updated by following paragraphs 3.C.(2)(a)
through 3.C.(2)(d)6 or 3.C.(3)(a) through (g) of
SB 965–1595–34–0035.
(iii) Install a new software version label on
the EGPWS by following paragraph 3.E.(1) or
3.E.(2), as appropriate for your model
EGPWS, of SB 965–1595–34–0035.
(4) For helicopters with an MK XXII
EGPWS P/N 965–1595–024, P/N 965–1595–
026, P/N 965–1595–028, or P/N 965–1595–
030:
(i) Update the software by following the
Accomplishment Instructions, paragraphs
3.C.(1)(a) through 3.C.(1)(h), of Honeywell
Service Bulletin 965–1595–34–0034,
Revision 0, dated February 18, 2015 (SB 965–
1595–34–0034).
(ii) Determine whether the software
updated by following paragraphs 3.C.(2)(a)
through 3.C.(2)(d)6 or 3.C.(3)(a) through
3.C.(3)(g) of SB 965–1595–34–0034.
(iii) Install a new software version label on
the EGPWS by following paragraph 3.E.(1) or
3.E.(2), as appropriate for your model
EGPWS, of SB 965–1595–34–0034.
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(5) Do not install an EGPWS on any
helicopter unless you have complied with
the requirements in this AD.
(f) Alternative Methods of Compliance
(AMOC)
(1) The Manager, Los Angeles Aircraft
Certification Office, FAA, may approve
AMOCs for this AD. Send your proposal to:
Judy Heredia, Aviation Safety Engineer, Los
Angeles Aircraft Certification Office,
Transport Airplane Directorate, FAA, 3960
Paramount Blvd., Lakewood, California
90712; telephone (562) 627–5335; email 9ANM-LAACO-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
Honeywell SB ATA No. 965–1590/1595–
34–18, dated July 30, 2004, which is not
incorporated by reference, contains
additional information about the subject of
this AD. For service information identified in
this AD, contact Honeywell International
Inc., 15001 NE. 36 Street, Redmond,
Washington, 98052–5317; telephone (800)
601–3099; internet address
www.myaerospace.com. You may review a
copy of information at the FAA, Office of the
Regional Counsel, Southwest Region, 10101
Hillwood Pkwy, Room 6N–321, Fort Worth,
TX 76177.
(h) Subject
Joint Aircraft Service Component (JASC)
Code: 3444 Ground Proximity System.
Issued in Fort Worth, Texas, on May 15,
2017.
Scott A. Horn,
Acting Manager, Rotorcraft Directorate,
Aircraft Certification Service.
[FR Doc. 2017–11174 Filed 6–5–17; 8:45 am]
DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION
Federal Aviation Administration
14 CFR Part 39
[Docket No. FAA–2017–0525; Directorate
Identifier 2016–NM–121–AD]
RIN 2120–AA64
Airworthiness Directives; Dassault
Aviation Airplanes
Federal Aviation
Administration (FAA), DOT.
ACTION: Notice of proposed rulemaking
(NPRM).
AGENCY:
We propose to adopt a new
airworthiness directive (AD) for all
Dassault Aviation Model MYSTERE–
SUMMARY:
Frm 00008
Fmt 4702
We must receive comments on
this proposed AD by July 21, 2017.
ADDRESSES: You may send comments,
using the procedures found in 14 CFR
11.43 and 11.45, by any of the following
methods:
• Federal eRulemaking Portal: Go to
https://www.regulations.gov. Follow the
instructions for submitting comments.
• Fax: 202–493–2251.
• Mail: U.S. Department of
Transportation, Docket Operations, M–
30, West Building Ground Floor, Room
W12–140, 1200 New Jersey Avenue SE.,
Washington, DC 20590.
• Hand Delivery: Deliver to Mail
address above between 9 a.m. and 5
p.m., Monday through Friday, except
Federal holidays.
For service information identified in
this NPRM, contact Dassault Falcon Jet
Corporation, Teterboro Airport, P.O.
Box 2000, South Hackensack, NJ 07606;
telephone 201–440–6700; Internet
https://www.dassaultfalcon.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.
DATES:
Examining the AD Docket
BILLING CODE 4910–13–P
PO 00000
FALCON 900 airplanes. This proposed
AD was prompted by a determination
that new or more restrictive
maintenance requirements and/or
airworthiness limitations are necessary.
This proposed AD would require
revising the maintenance or inspection
program, as applicable, to incorporate
new or more restrictive maintenance
requirements and/or airworthiness
limitations. We are proposing this AD to
address the unsafe condition on these
products.
Sfmt 4702
You may examine the AD docket on
the Internet at https://
www.regulations.gov by searching for
and locating Docket No. FAA–2017–
0525; or in person at the Docket
Management Facility between 9 a.m.
and 5 p.m., Monday through Friday,
except Federal holidays. The AD docket
contains this proposed AD, the
regulatory evaluation, any comments
received, and other information. The
street address for the Docket Operations
office (telephone 800–647–5527) is in
the ADDRESSES section. Comments will
be available in the AD docket shortly
after receipt.
FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Tom
Rodriguez, Aerospace Engineer,
International Branch, ANM–116,
Transport Airplane Directorate, FAA,
1601 Lind Avenue SW., Renton, WA
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Agencies
[Federal Register Volume 82, Number 107 (Tuesday, June 6, 2017)]
[Proposed Rules]
[Pages 25978-25980]
From the Federal Register Online via the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]
[FR Doc No: 2017-11174]
-----------------------------------------------------------------------
DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION
Federal Aviation Administration
14 CFR Part 39
[Docket No. FAA-2017-0492; Directorate Identifier 2016-SW-025-AD]
RIN 2120-AA64
Airworthiness Directives; Honeywell International Inc.
(Honeywell) Enhanced Ground Proximity Warning System (EGPWS)
AGENCY: Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), DOT.
ACTION: Notice of proposed rulemaking (NPRM).
-----------------------------------------------------------------------
SUMMARY: We propose to adopt a new airworthiness directive (AD) for
various normal and transport category rotorcraft with certain Honeywell
EGPWS installed. This proposed AD would require updating the software
version of the EGPWS. This proposed AD is prompted by a software defect
that prevents the EGPWS from providing terrain warnings. The proposed
actions are intended to address an unsafe condition on these products.
DATES: We must receive comments on this proposed AD by August 7, 2017.
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.
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-2017-
0492; 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 proposed 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 proposed rule, contact
Honeywell International Inc., 15001 NE. 36 Street, Redmond, Washington
98052-5317; telephone (800) 601-3099; internet address
www.myaerospace.com. 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: Judy Heredia, Aviation Safety
Engineer, Los Angeles Aircraft Certification Office, Transport Airplane
Directorate, FAA, 3960 Paramount Blvd., Lakewood, California 90712;
telephone (562) 627-5335; email judy.heredia@faa.gov.
SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION:
Comments Invited
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 might
result from adopting the proposals in this document. The most helpful
comments reference a specific portion of the proposal, 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 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 proposed rulemaking. Before acting on this proposal, we
will consider all comments we receive on or before the closing date for
comments. We will consider comments filed after the comment period has
closed if it is possible to do so without incurring expense or delay.
We may change this proposal in light of the comments we receive.
Discussion
We propose to adopt a new AD for Honeywell MK XXI EGPWS part number
(P/N) 965-1227-005 and MK XXII EGPWS P/N 965-1595-020, P/N 965-1595-
021, 965-1595-022, 965-1595-024, 965-1595-026, 965-1595-028, and 965-
1595-030 installed on various normal and transport category helicopters
from five manufacturers. This proposed AD would require updating the
software of the EGPWS. This proposed AD is prompted by a software
defect found by Honeywell in certain MK XXI and MK XXII EGPWSs during
testing. The testing revealed the terrain alerting feature will not
function as intended in certain specific geographical areas under
altitudes of 175-feet mean sea level (MSL). According to Honeywell, the
terrain display is not affected by the defect and will correctly
present terrain and its corresponding elevation information. However,
in some locations, the EGPWS will not issue a warning or caution for
terrain, water, or obstacles below 175 feel MSL. Without this feature
of the EGPWS, the helicopter could potentially operate into threatening
terrain or obstacles without providing any warning to the crew,
resulting in loss of the helicopter. Since the defect was discovered,
Honeywell has developed a software modification (MOD) that corrects
this condition.
Record of Ex Parte Communication
In preparation of AD actions such as notices of proposed rulemaking
and immediately adopted final rules, it is the practice of the FAA to
obtain technical information and information on the operational and
economic impact from design approval holders and aircraft operators. We
discussed certain aspects of this proposed AD by email with Honeywell.
A copy of each email contact can be found in the rulemaking docket. For
information on locating the docket, see ``Examining the AD Docket.''
[[Page 25979]]
FAA's Determination
We are proposing this AD because we evaluated all known relevant
information and determined that an unsafe condition exists and is
likely to exist or develop on other helicopters of these same type
designs.
Related Service Information Under 1 CFR Part 51
We reviewed Honeywell Service Bulletin (SB) 965-1227-34-0001,
Revision 0, dated May 4, 2015 (SB 965-1227-34-0001); Honeywell SB 965-
1595-34-0034, Revision 0, dated February 18, 2015 (SB 965-1595-34-
0034); and Honeywell SB 965-1595-34-0035, Revision 0, dated March 25,
2015 (SB 965-1595-34-0035). SB 965-1227-34-0001 specifies procedures
for installing and verifying a software MOD to a certain part-numbered
MK XXI EGPWS and for replacing the front panel label identifying the
software version. SB 965-1595-34-0034 specifies procedures for
installing and verifying a software MOD to certain part-numbered MK
XXII EGPWS and for replacing the front panel label identifying the
software version. SB 965-1595-34-0035 specifies procedures for
installing and verifying a software MOD to certain part-numbered MK
XXII EGPWS and for replacing the front panel label identifying the
software version. This service information also states that terrain
database version 437 must be installed prior to updating the EGPWS
software.
This service information is reasonably available because the
interested parties have access to it through their normal course of
business or by the means identified in the ADDRESSES section of this
NPRM.
Other Related Service Information
We also reviewed Honeywell SB ATA No. 965-1590/1595-34-18, dated
July 30, 2004. This service information contains procedures for
updating the MK XXII EGPWS with terrain database version 437 and
verifying the updated software was successfully installed.
Proposed AD Requirements
By following certain procedures in the manufacturer's service
bulletin, this proposed AD would require, within 1,080 hours time-in-
service (TIS), installing terrain database version 437 if not already
installed; updating, installing, and confirming software MOD 1 or MOD 2
as determined by the model and serial number of the EGPWS; and
replacing the software version label on the EGPWS front face.
Differences Between This Proposed AD and the Service Information
The service information requires the software MODs to be
accomplished within 60 months, while this proposed AD would require
compliance within 1,080 hours TIS.
Costs of Compliance
We estimate that this proposed AD would affect 3,000 appliances
installed on helicopters of U.S. Registry.
We estimate that operators may incur the following costs in order
to comply with this proposed AD. At an average labor rate of $85 per
hour, updating and confirming the software and replacing the software
version label would require about 0.5 work-hour, and required parts
would cost $2,500, for a total cost of $2,543 per helicopter and
$7,629,000 for the U.S. fleet.
According to Honeywell's service information all of the costs of
this proposed AD may be covered under warranty, thereby reducing the
cost impact on affected individuals. We do not control warranty
coverage by Honeywell. Accordingly, we have included all costs in our
cost estimate.
Authority for This Rulemaking
Title 49 of the United States Code specifies the FAA's authority to
issue rules on aviation safety. Subtitle I, section 106, describes the
authority of the FAA Administrator. ``Subtitle VII: Aviation
Programs,'' describes in more detail the scope of the Agency's
authority.
We are issuing this rulemaking under the authority described in
``Subtitle VII, Part A, Subpart III, Section 44701: General
requirements.'' Under that section, Congress charges the FAA with
promoting safe flight of civil aircraft in air commerce by prescribing
regulations for practices, methods, and procedures the Administrator
finds necessary for safety in air commerce. This regulation is within
the scope of that authority because it addresses an unsafe condition
that is likely to exist or develop on products identified in this
rulemaking action.
Regulatory Findings
We determined that this proposed AD would not have federalism
implications under Executive Order 13132. This proposed AD would not
have a substantial direct effect on the States, on the relationship
between the national Government and the States, or on the distribution
of power and responsibilities among the various levels of government.
For the reasons discussed, I certify this proposed regulation:
1. Is not a ``significant regulatory action'' under Executive Order
12866;
2. Is not a ``significant rule'' under the DOT Regulatory Policies
and Procedures (44 FR 11034, February 26, 1979);
3. Will not affect intrastate aviation in Alaska 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 proposed 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.
The Proposed Amendment
Accordingly, under the authority delegated to me by the
Administrator, the FAA proposes to amend 14 CFR part 39 as follows:
PART 39--AIRWORTHINESS DIRECTIVES
0
1. The authority citation for part 39 continues to read as follows:
Authority: 49 U.S.C. 106(g), 40113, 44701.
Sec. 39.13 [Amended]
0
2.The FAA amends Sec. 39.13 by adding the following new airworthiness
directive (AD):
Honeywell International, Inc. (Honeywell): Docket No. FAA-2017-0492;
Directorate Identifier 2016-SW-025-AD.
(a) Applicability
This AD applies to Honeywell MK XXI Enhanced Ground Proximity
Warning System (EGPWS) part number (P/N) 965-1227-005 with software
modification (MOD) 1 and MK XXII EGPWS P/N 965-1595-020 with MOD 1,
P/N 965-1595-021 with MOD 1, 965-1595-022 with MOD 1, 965-1595-024
with MOD 1, 965-1595-026 with MOD 1, 965-1595-028 with MOD 0, and
965-1595-030 with MOD 0. These EGPWSs are installed on, but not
limited to, the following helicopters, certificated in any category:
(1) Agusta S.p.A. Model A109 and AW139;
(2) Airbus Helicopters Model AS350B, AS350B1, AS350B2, AS350B3,
AS350BA, AS350C, AS350D, AS350D1, AS355E, AS355F, AS355F1, AS355F2,
AS355N, AS355NP, SA-365N, EC130B4, EC130T2, EC 155B, EC155B1, and
EC225LP;
(3) Airbus Helicopters Deutschland GmbH Model EC135P1, EC135P2,
EC135P2+, EC135P3, EC135T1, EC135T2, EC135T2+, and EC135T3;
(4) Bell Helicopter Textron Inc. Model 212 and 412;
(5) Bell Helicopter Textron Canada Limited Model 407;
[[Page 25980]]
(6) Bell Helicopter Textron Model 430;
(7) MD Helicopters, Inc. Model MD900; and
(8) Sikorsky Aircraft Corporation Model S-76B, S-76C, S-76D, and
S-92A.
(b) Unsafe Condition
This AD defines the unsafe condition as failure of an EGPWS to
generate a terrain warning, which could result in flight into
terrain.
(c) Comments Due Date
We must receive comments by August 7, 2017.
(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 1,080 hours time-in-service:
(1) Install terrain database version 437 if not already
installed.
(2) For helicopters with an MK XXI EGPWS P/N 965-1227-005:
(i) Update the software by following the Accomplishment
Instructions, paragraphs 3.B.(1)(a) through 3.B.(1)(j), of Honeywell
Service Bulletin (SB) 965-1227-34-0001, Revision 0, dated May 4,
2015 (SB 965-1227-34-0001).
(ii) Determine whether the software updated by following
paragraphs 3.B.(2)(a) through 3.B.(2)(d) of SB 965-1227-34-0001.
(iii) Install a new software version label on the EGPWS by
following paragraph 3.D.(1) or 3.D.(2), as appropriate for your
model EGPWS, of SB 965-1227-34-0001.
(3) For helicopters with an MK XXII EGPWS P/N 965-1595-020, P/N
965-1595-021, or P/N 965-1595-022:
(i) Update the software by following the Accomplishment
Instructions, paragraphs 3.C.(1)(a) through (h), of Honeywell SB
965-1595-34-0035, Revision 0, dated March 25, 2015 (SB 965-1595-34-
0035).
(ii) Determine whether the software updated by following
paragraphs 3.C.(2)(a) through 3.C.(2)(d)6 or 3.C.(3)(a) through (g)
of SB 965-1595-34-0035.
(iii) Install a new software version label on the EGPWS by
following paragraph 3.E.(1) or 3.E.(2), as appropriate for your
model EGPWS, of SB 965-1595-34-0035.
(4) For helicopters with an MK XXII EGPWS P/N 965-1595-024, P/N
965-1595-026, P/N 965-1595-028, or P/N 965-1595-030:
(i) Update the software by following the Accomplishment
Instructions, paragraphs 3.C.(1)(a) through 3.C.(1)(h), of Honeywell
Service Bulletin 965-1595-34-0034, Revision 0, dated February 18,
2015 (SB 965-1595-34-0034).
(ii) Determine whether the software updated by following
paragraphs 3.C.(2)(a) through 3.C.(2)(d)6 or 3.C.(3)(a) through
3.C.(3)(g) of SB 965-1595-34-0034.
(iii) Install a new software version label on the EGPWS by
following paragraph 3.E.(1) or 3.E.(2), as appropriate for your
model EGPWS, of SB 965-1595-34-0034.
(5) Do not install an EGPWS on any helicopter unless you have
complied with the requirements in this AD.
(f) Alternative Methods of Compliance (AMOC)
(1) The Manager, Los Angeles Aircraft Certification Office, FAA,
may approve AMOCs for this AD. Send your proposal to: Judy Heredia,
Aviation Safety Engineer, Los Angeles Aircraft Certification Office,
Transport Airplane Directorate, FAA, 3960 Paramount Blvd., Lakewood,
California 90712; telephone (562) 627-5335; email 9-ANM-LAACO-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
Honeywell SB ATA No. 965-1590/1595-34-18, dated July 30, 2004,
which is not incorporated by reference, contains additional
information about the subject of this AD. For service information
identified in this AD, contact Honeywell International Inc., 15001
NE. 36 Street, Redmond, Washington, 98052-5317; telephone (800) 601-
3099; internet address www.myaerospace.com. You may review a copy of
information at the FAA, Office of the Regional Counsel, Southwest
Region, 10101 Hillwood Pkwy, Room 6N-321, Fort Worth, TX 76177.
(h) Subject
Joint Aircraft Service Component (JASC) Code: 3444 Ground
Proximity System.
Issued in Fort Worth, Texas, on May 15, 2017.
Scott A. Horn,
Acting Manager, Rotorcraft Directorate, Aircraft Certification Service.
[FR Doc. 2017-11174 Filed 6-5-17; 8:45 am]
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