Airworthiness Directives; Airbus Helicopters Deutschland GmbH Helicopters, 28399-28401 [2017-12800]
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Federal Register / Vol. 82, No. 119 / Thursday, June 22, 2017 / Rules and Regulations
(2) Is not a ‘‘significant rule’’ under
DOT Regulatory Policies and Procedures
(44 FR 11034, February 26, 1979);
(3) Will not affect intrastate aviation
in Alaska to the extent that it justifies
making a regulatory distinction; and
(4) Will not have a significant
economic impact, positive or negative,
on a substantial number of small entities
under the criteria of the Regulatory
Flexibility Act.
We prepared an economic evaluation
of the estimated costs to comply with
this AD and placed it in the AD docket.
List of Subjects in 14 CFR Part 39
Air transportation, Aircraft, Aviation
safety, Incorporation by reference,
Safety.
Adoption of the Amendment
Accordingly, under the authority
delegated to me by the Administrator,
the FAA amends 14 CFR part 39 as
follows:
PART 39—AIRWORTHINESS
DIRECTIVES
1. The authority citation for part 39
continues to read as follows:
■
Authority: 49 U.S.C. 106(g), 40113, 44701.
§ 39.13
[Amended]
2. The FAA amends § 39.13 by adding
the following new airworthiness
directive (AD):
■
2017–13–03 Bell Helicopter Textron
Canada Limited: Amendment 39–18933;
Docket No. FAA–2017–0078; Directorate
Identifier 2015–SW–026–AD.
(a) Applicability
This AD applies to Model 429 helicopters,
serial number 57001 through 57260, with a
pylon restraint spring assembly (spring
assembly) forward rod end (rod end) part
number (P/N) 427–010–210–105 installed,
certificated in any category.
(b) Unsafe Condition
This AD defines the unsafe condition as a
rod end remaining in service after reaching
its life limit. This condition could result in
failure of a rod end and subsequent loss of
control of a helicopter.
sradovich on DSK3GMQ082PROD with RULES
(c) Effective Date
This AD becomes effective July 27, 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
(1) Within 140 hours time-in-service, clean
and identify each forward rod end with the
spring assembly serial number in accordance
with the Accomplishment Instructions,
paragraphs 3 through 5, and 7 through 8, of
VerDate Sep<11>2014
15:41 Jun 21, 2017
Jkt 241001
Bell Helicopter Alert Service Bulletin 429–
15–19, dated February 26, 2015.
(2) Do not install a forward rod end P/N
427–010–210–105 on any helicopter unless it
has been marked with a serial number in
accordance with paragraph (e)(1) of this AD.
(f) Alternative Methods of Compliance
(AMOCs)
(1) The Manager, Safety Management
Group, FAA, may approve AMOCs for this
AD. Send your proposal to: Matt Fuller,
Senior Aviation Safety Engineer, Safety
Management Group, Rotorcraft Directorate,
FAA, 10101 Hillwood Pkwy, Fort Worth, TX
76177; telephone (817) 222–5110; email 9ASW-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
(1) Bell Model 429 Maintenance Manual
BHT–429–MM–1, Chapter 4, Airworthiness
Limitations Schedule, Revision 24, approved
June 12, 2015, which is not incorporated by
reference, contains additional information
about the subject of this AD. For service
information identified in this AD, contact
Bell Helicopter Textron Canada Limited,
12,800 Rue de l’Avenir, Mirabel, Quebec
J7J1R4; telephone (450) 437–2862 or (800)
363–8023; fax (450) 433–0272; or at https://
www.bellcustomer.com/files/. 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.
(2) The subject of this AD is addressed in
Transport Canada AD No. CF–2015–15 dated
June 25, 2015. You may view the Transport
Canada AD on the Internet at https://
www.regulations.gov in Docket No. FAA–
2017–0078.
(h) Subject
Joint Aircraft Service Component (JASC)
Code: 5101, Standard Practices/Structures.
(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) Bell Helicopter Alert Service Bulletin
429–15–19, dated February 26, 2015.
(ii) Reserved.
(3) For Bell Helicopter service information
identified in this AD, contact Bell Helicopter
Textron Canada Limited, 12,800 Rue de
l’Avenir, Mirabel, Quebec J7J1R4; telephone
(450) 437–2862 or (800) 363–8023; fax (450)
433–0272; or at https://
www.bellcustomer.com/files/.
(4) You may view this service information
at FAA, Office of the Regional Counsel,
Southwest Region, 10101 Hillwood Pkwy.,
PO 00000
Frm 00007
Fmt 4700
Sfmt 4700
28399
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
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 June 2,
2017.
Lance T. Gant,
Manager, Rotorcraft Directorate, Aircraft
Certification Service.
[FR Doc. 2017–12799 Filed 6–21–17; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE 4910–13–P
DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION
Federal Aviation Administration
14 CFR Part 39
[Docket No. FAA–2017–0061; Directorate
Identifier 2016–SW–005–AD; Amendment
39–18934; AD 2017–13–04]
RIN 2120–AA64
Airworthiness Directives; Airbus
Helicopters Deutschland GmbH
Helicopters
Federal Aviation
Administration (FAA), DOT.
ACTION: Final rule.
AGENCY:
We are adopting a new
airworthiness directive (AD) for Airbus
Helicopters Deutschland GmbH (Airbus
Helicopters) Model MBB–BK 117 C–2
(including configuration C–2e) and
MBB–BK 117 D–2 helicopters. This AD
requires replacing the main rotor (M/R)
blade vibration absorbers. This AD was
prompted by a report of strong M/R
blade vibrations on a Model MBB–BK
117 C–2 helicopter. The actions of this
AD are intended to prevent an unsafe
condition on these products.
DATES: This AD is effective July 27,
2017.
The Director of the Federal Register
approved the incorporation by reference
of certain documents listed in this AD
as of July 27, 2017.
ADDRESSES: For service information
identified in this final rule, contact
Airbus Helicopters, 2701 N. Forum
Drive, Grand Prairie, TX 75052;
telephone (972) 641–0000 or (800) 232–
0323; fax (972) 641–3775; or at https://
www.airbushelicopters.com/website/en/
ref/Technical-Support_73.html. You
may review the referenced service
information at the FAA, Office of the
Regional Counsel, Southwest Region,
10101 Hillwood Pkwy., Room 6N–321,
SUMMARY:
E:\FR\FM\22JNR1.SGM
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Federal Register / Vol. 82, No. 119 / Thursday, June 22, 2017 / Rules and Regulations
Fort Worth, TX 76177. It is also
available on the Internet at https://
www.regulations.gov by searching for
and locating Docket No. FAA–2017–
0061.
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–
0061; 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) ADs, any
incorporated-by-reference service
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: Matt
Fuller, Senior Aviation Safety Engineer,
Safety Management Group, Rotorcraft
Directorate, FAA, 10101 Hillwood
Pkwy., Fort Worth, TX 76177; email
matthew.fuller@faa.gov.
SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION:
sradovich on DSK3GMQ082PROD with RULES
Discussion
On February 17, 2017, at 82 FR 10978,
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 MBB–BK
117 C–2 (including configuration C–2e)
and Model MBB–BK 117 D–2
helicopters with an M/R blade vibration
absorber spacer part number (P/N) 117–
801841.11 installed. The NPRM
proposed to require replacing the M/R
blade vibration absorbers. The proposed
requirements were intended to prevent
damage to a bearing in an M/R blade
vibration absorber. Such damage could
result in failure of the bearing, possibly
resulting in the loss of balls and damage
to the helicopter and injury to persons
on the ground.
The NPRM was prompted by AD No.
2016–0002, dated January 4, 2016,
issued by EASA, which is the Technical
Agent for the Member States of the
European Union, to correct an unsafe
condition for Airbus Helicopters Model
MBB–BK 117 C–2, MBB–BK 117 C–2e,
MBB–BK 117 D–2, and Model MBB–BK
117 D–2m helicopters. EASA advises of
damaged bearings that if not corrected,
could lead to the loss of balls from the
ball bearing while the M/R blade is
VerDate Sep<11>2014
15:41 Jun 21, 2017
Jkt 241001
turning, possibly resulting in damage to
the helicopter and injury to persons on
the ground. To address this unsafe
condition, EASA requires replacing the
spacers with flanged spacers in the M/
R blade vibration absorber and reidentifying the vibration absorber and
M/R blade.
Comments
We gave the public the opportunity to
participate in developing this AD, but
we received no comments on the NPRM.
FAA’s Determination
These helicopters have been approved
by the aviation authority of Germany
and are approved for operation in the
United States. Pursuant to our bilateral
agreement with Germany, 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 EASA 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.
Interim Action
We consider this AD to be an interim
action. The design approval holder is
currently developing a modification that
will address the unsafe condition
identified in this AD. Once this
modification is developed, approved,
and available, we might consider
additional rulemaking.
Differences Between This AD and the
EASA AD
The EASA AD requires replacing the
M/R blade vibration absorber spacers
within 12 months after the effective date
of the EASA AD. This AD requires the
replacement within 200 hours TIS. The
EASA AD applies to Airbus Helicopters
Model MBB–BK 117 D–2m helicopters.
This AD does not because Model MBB–
BK 117 D–2m helicopters have no FAA
type certificate.
Related Service Information Under 1
CFR Part 51
We reviewed Airbus Helicopters Alert
Service Bulletin (ASB) MBB–BK117 C–
2–62A–009 for Model MBB–BK 117 C–
2 and C–2e helicopters and ASB MBB–
BK117 D–2–62A–001 for Model MBB–
BK 117 D–2 and D–2m helicopters. The
ASBs, both Revision 1 and both dated
October 28, 2015, specify replacing the
vibration absorber spacers with flanged
spacers to prevent the balls from
escaping from the ball bearings. The
ASBs also provide procedures for re-
PO 00000
Frm 00008
Fmt 4700
Sfmt 4700
identifying the M/R blade and vibration
absorber.
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 136
helicopters of U.S. Registry and that
labor costs average $85 per work-hour.
Based on these estimates, we expect that
modifying the M/R blade vibration
absorber spacers and re-identifying the
parts require 4 work-hours and parts
cost about $1,439, for a total cost of
$1,779 per helicopter and $241,944 for
the U.S. fleet. The cost of recording the
new P/N is minimal.
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
E:\FR\FM\22JNR1.SGM
22JNR1
Federal Register / Vol. 82, No. 119 / Thursday, June 22, 2017 / Rules and Regulations
under the criteria of the Regulatory
Flexibility Act.
We prepared an economic evaluation
of the estimated costs to comply with
this AD and placed it in the AD docket.
List of Subjects in 14 CFR Part 39
Air transportation, Aircraft, Aviation
safety, Incorporation by reference,
Safety.
Adoption of the Amendment
Accordingly, under the authority
delegated to me by the Administrator,
the FAA amends 14 CFR part 39 as
follows:
(f) Alternative Methods of Compliance
(AMOCs)
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):
■
2017–13–04 Airbus Helicopters
Deutschland GmbH (Airbus
Helicopters): Amendment 39–18934;
Docket No. FAA–2017–0061; Directorate
Identifier 2016–SW–005–AD.
(a) Applicability
This AD applies to Airbus Helicopters
Model MBB–BK 117 C–2 (including
configuration C–2e) and Model MBB–BK 117
D–2 helicopters with a main rotor (M/R)
blade vibration absorber spacer part number
(P/N) 117–801841.11 installed, certificated in
any category.
(b) Unsafe Condition
This AD defines the unsafe condition as
damage to a bearing in an M/R blade
vibration absorber. This condition could
result in failure of the bearing, possibly
resulting in the loss of the balls and damage
to the helicopter and injury to persons on the
ground.
(c) Effective Date
This AD becomes effective July 27, 2017.
sradovich on DSK3GMQ082PROD with RULES
(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
(1) Within 200 hours time-in-service:
(i) Replace each spacer on the vibration
absorber with a flanged spacer.
(ii) Re-identify each vibration absorber and
M/R blade in accordance with paragraphs
3.B.2.3. or 3.B.2.4, as applicable, of Airbus
Helicopters Alert Service Bulletin (ASB)
MBB–BK117 C–2–62A–009, Revision 1,
dated October 28, 2015, or ASB MBB–BK117
D–2–62A–001, Revision 1, dated October 28,
2015, whichever applies to your model
helicopter. Record the new P/Ns and serial
VerDate Sep<11>2014
15:41 Jun 21, 2017
Jkt 241001
numbers for each M/R blade on the
component history card or equivalent record.
(2) After replacing the spacer in accordance
with paragraph (e)(1) of this AD, do not
install M/R blade P/N B621M1002103 or P/
N D621M1002101, vibration absorber P/N
B621M3001101, or spacer P/N 117–
801841.11 on that helicopter. You may install
M/R blade P/N B621M1002101 or P/N
B621M1002102 provided you have complied
with the requirements of paragraph (e)(1) of
this AD.
(1) The Manager, Safety Management
Group, FAA, may approve AMOCs for this
AD. Send your proposal to: Matt Fuller,
Senior Aviation Safety Engineer, Safety
Management Group, Rotorcraft Directorate,
FAA, 10101 Hillwood Pkwy., Fort Worth,
Texas 76177; telephone (817) 222–5110;
email 9-ASW-FTW-AMOC-Requests@faa.gov.
(2) For operations conducted under a 14
CFR part 119 operating certificate or under
14 CFR part 91, subpart K, we suggest that
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. 2015–0045, dated March 13, 2015, and
corrected April 2, 2015, and in EASA AD No.
2016–0002, dated January 4, 2016. You may
view the EASA ADs on the Internet at https://
www.regulations.gov in Docket No. FAA–
2017–0061.
(h) Subject
Joint Aircraft Service Component (JASC)
Code: 6200, Main Rotor System.
(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 MBB–BK117 C–2–62A–009,
Revision 1, dated October 28, 2015.
(ii) Airbus Helicopters Alert Service
Bulletin MBB–BK117 D–2–62A–001,
Revision 1, dated October 28, 2015.
(3) For Airbus Helicopters service
information identified in this AD, contact
Airbus Helicopters, 2701 N. Forum Drive,
Grand Prairie, TX 75052; telephone (972)
641–0000 or (800) 232–0323; fax (972) 641–
3775; or at https://
www.airbushelicopters.com/website/en/ref/
Technical-Support_73.html.
(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.
PO 00000
Frm 00009
Fmt 4700
Sfmt 4700
28401
(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 Fort Worth, Texas, on June 6,
2017.
Scott A. Horn,
Acting Manager, Rotorcraft Directorate,
Aircraft Certification Service.
[FR Doc. 2017–12800 Filed 6–21–17; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE 4910–13–P
DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION
Federal Aviation Administration
14 CFR Part 71
[Docket No. FAA–2016–9118; Airspace
Docket No. 16–AGL–3]
Amendment of Class D and E Airspace
for the Following North Dakota Towns;
Wahpeton, ND; Hettinger, ND; Fargo,
ND; Grand Fork, ND; Carrington, ND;
Cooperstown, ND; Pembina, ND;
Rugby, ND; Devils Lake, ND;
Bottineau, ND; Valley City, ND and
Gwinner, ND
Federal Aviation
Administration (FAA), DOT.
ACTION: Final rule.
AGENCY:
This action modifies Class E
airspace extending upward from 700
feet above the surface at Wahpeton/
Harry Stern Airport, Wahpeton, ND;
Hettinger Municipal Airport, Hettinger,
ND; Gwinner-Roger Melroe Field,
Gwinner, ND; and Rugby Municipal
Airport, Rugby, ND. Decommissioning
of non-directional radio beacons
(NDBs), cancellation of NDB
approaches, and implementation of area
navigation (RNAV) procedures have
made this action necessary for the safety
and management of instrument flight
rules (IFR) operations at these airports.
This action also updates the geographic
coordinates and airport names for
certain airports listed in the associated
Class D and E airspace areas.
DATES: Effective 0901 UTC, December 7,
2017. The Director of the Federal
Register approves this incorporation by
reference action under Title 1, Code of
Federal Regulations, part 51, subject to
the annual revision of FAA Order
7400.11 and publication of conforming
amendments.
ADDRESSES: FAA Order 7400.11,
Airspace Designations and Reporting
Points, and subsequent amendments can
be viewed online at https://www.faa.gov/
SUMMARY:
E:\FR\FM\22JNR1.SGM
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Agencies
[Federal Register Volume 82, Number 119 (Thursday, June 22, 2017)]
[Rules and Regulations]
[Pages 28399-28401]
From the Federal Register Online via the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]
[FR Doc No: 2017-12800]
-----------------------------------------------------------------------
DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION
Federal Aviation Administration
14 CFR Part 39
[Docket No. FAA-2017-0061; Directorate Identifier 2016-SW-005-AD;
Amendment 39-18934; AD 2017-13-04]
RIN 2120-AA64
Airworthiness Directives; Airbus Helicopters Deutschland GmbH
Helicopters
AGENCY: Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), DOT.
ACTION: Final rule.
-----------------------------------------------------------------------
SUMMARY: We are adopting a new airworthiness directive (AD) for Airbus
Helicopters Deutschland GmbH (Airbus Helicopters) Model MBB-BK 117 C-2
(including configuration C-2e) and MBB-BK 117 D-2 helicopters. This AD
requires replacing the main rotor (M/R) blade vibration absorbers. This
AD was prompted by a report of strong M/R blade vibrations on a Model
MBB-BK 117 C-2 helicopter. The actions of this AD are intended to
prevent an unsafe condition on these products.
DATES: This AD is effective July 27, 2017.
The Director of the Federal Register approved the incorporation by
reference of certain documents listed in this AD as of July 27, 2017.
ADDRESSES: For service information identified in this final rule,
contact Airbus Helicopters, 2701 N. Forum Drive, Grand Prairie, TX
75052; telephone (972) 641-0000 or (800) 232-0323; fax (972) 641-3775;
or at https://www.airbushelicopters.com/website/en/ref/Technical-Support_73.html. You may review the referenced service information at
the FAA, Office of the Regional Counsel, Southwest Region, 10101
Hillwood Pkwy., Room 6N-321,
[[Page 28400]]
Fort Worth, TX 76177. It is also available on the Internet at https://www.regulations.gov by searching for and locating Docket No. FAA-2017-
0061.
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-
0061; 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) ADs, any
incorporated-by-reference service 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: Matt Fuller, Senior Aviation Safety
Engineer, Safety Management Group, Rotorcraft Directorate, FAA, 10101
Hillwood Pkwy., Fort Worth, TX 76177; email matthew.fuller@faa.gov.
SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION:
Discussion
On February 17, 2017, at 82 FR 10978, 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 MBB-BK 117 C-2 (including configuration C-2e) and
Model MBB-BK 117 D-2 helicopters with an M/R blade vibration absorber
spacer part number (P/N) 117-801841.11 installed. The NPRM proposed to
require replacing the M/R blade vibration absorbers. The proposed
requirements were intended to prevent damage to a bearing in an M/R
blade vibration absorber. Such damage could result in failure of the
bearing, possibly resulting in the loss of balls and damage to the
helicopter and injury to persons on the ground.
The NPRM was prompted by AD No. 2016-0002, dated January 4, 2016,
issued by EASA, which is the Technical Agent for the Member States of
the European Union, to correct an unsafe condition for Airbus
Helicopters Model MBB-BK 117 C-2, MBB-BK 117 C-2e, MBB-BK 117 D-2, and
Model MBB-BK 117 D-2m helicopters. EASA advises of damaged bearings
that if not corrected, could lead to the loss of balls from the ball
bearing while the M/R blade is turning, possibly resulting in damage to
the helicopter and injury to persons on the ground. To address this
unsafe condition, EASA requires replacing the spacers with flanged
spacers in the M/R blade vibration absorber and re-identifying the
vibration absorber and M/R blade.
Comments
We gave the public the opportunity to participate in developing
this AD, but we received no comments on the NPRM.
FAA's Determination
These helicopters have been approved by the aviation authority of
Germany and are approved for operation in the United States. Pursuant
to our bilateral agreement with Germany, 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 EASA 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.
Interim Action
We consider this AD to be an interim action. The design approval
holder is currently developing a modification that will address the
unsafe condition identified in this AD. Once this modification is
developed, approved, and available, we might consider additional
rulemaking.
Differences Between This AD and the EASA AD
The EASA AD requires replacing the M/R blade vibration absorber
spacers within 12 months after the effective date of the EASA AD. This
AD requires the replacement within 200 hours TIS. The EASA AD applies
to Airbus Helicopters Model MBB-BK 117 D-2m helicopters. This AD does
not because Model MBB-BK 117 D-2m helicopters have no FAA type
certificate.
Related Service Information Under 1 CFR Part 51
We reviewed Airbus Helicopters Alert Service Bulletin (ASB) MBB-
BK117 C-2-62A-009 for Model MBB-BK 117 C-2 and C-2e helicopters and ASB
MBB-BK117 D-2-62A-001 for Model MBB-BK 117 D-2 and D-2m helicopters.
The ASBs, both Revision 1 and both dated October 28, 2015, specify
replacing the vibration absorber spacers with flanged spacers to
prevent the balls from escaping from the ball bearings. The ASBs also
provide procedures for re-identifying the M/R blade and vibration
absorber.
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 136 helicopters of U.S. Registry
and that labor costs average $85 per work-hour. Based on these
estimates, we expect that modifying the M/R blade vibration absorber
spacers and re-identifying the parts require 4 work-hours and parts
cost about $1,439, for a total cost of $1,779 per helicopter and
$241,944 for the U.S. fleet. The cost of recording the new P/N is
minimal.
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
[[Page 28401]]
under the criteria of the Regulatory Flexibility Act.
We prepared an economic evaluation of the estimated costs to comply
with this AD and placed it in the AD docket.
List of Subjects in 14 CFR Part 39
Air transportation, Aircraft, Aviation safety, Incorporation by
reference, Safety.
Adoption of the Amendment
Accordingly, under the authority delegated to me by the
Administrator, the FAA amends 14 CFR part 39 as follows:
PART 39--AIRWORTHINESS DIRECTIVES
0
1. The authority citation for part 39 continues to read as follows:
Authority: 49 U.S.C. 106(g), 40113, 44701.
Sec. 39.13 [Amended]
0
2. The FAA amends Sec. 39.13 by adding the following new airworthiness
directive (AD):
2017-13-04 Airbus Helicopters Deutschland GmbH (Airbus Helicopters):
Amendment 39-18934; Docket No. FAA-2017-0061; Directorate Identifier
2016-SW-005-AD.
(a) Applicability
This AD applies to Airbus Helicopters Model MBB-BK 117 C-2
(including configuration C-2e) and Model MBB-BK 117 D-2 helicopters
with a main rotor (M/R) blade vibration absorber spacer part number
(P/N) 117-801841.11 installed, certificated in any category.
(b) Unsafe Condition
This AD defines the unsafe condition as damage to a bearing in
an M/R blade vibration absorber. This condition could result in
failure of the bearing, possibly resulting in the loss of the balls
and damage to the helicopter and injury to persons on the ground.
(c) Effective Date
This AD becomes effective July 27, 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
(1) Within 200 hours time-in-service:
(i) Replace each spacer on the vibration absorber with a flanged
spacer.
(ii) Re-identify each vibration absorber and M/R blade in
accordance with paragraphs 3.B.2.3. or 3.B.2.4, as applicable, of
Airbus Helicopters Alert Service Bulletin (ASB) MBB-BK117 C-2-62A-
009, Revision 1, dated October 28, 2015, or ASB MBB-BK117 D-2-62A-
001, Revision 1, dated October 28, 2015, whichever applies to your
model helicopter. Record the new P/Ns and serial numbers for each M/
R blade on the component history card or equivalent record.
(2) After replacing the spacer in accordance with paragraph
(e)(1) of this AD, do not install M/R blade P/N B621M1002103 or P/N
D621M1002101, vibration absorber P/N B621M3001101, or spacer P/N
117-801841.11 on that helicopter. You may install M/R blade P/N
B621M1002101 or P/N B621M1002102 provided you have complied with the
requirements of paragraph (e)(1) of this AD.
(f) Alternative Methods of Compliance (AMOCs)
(1) The Manager, Safety Management Group, FAA, may approve AMOCs
for this AD. Send your proposal to: Matt Fuller, Senior Aviation
Safety Engineer, Safety Management Group, Rotorcraft Directorate,
FAA, 10101 Hillwood Pkwy., Fort Worth, Texas 76177; telephone (817)
222-5110; email 9-ASW-FTW-AMOC-Requests@faa.gov.
(2) For operations conducted under a 14 CFR part 119 operating
certificate or under 14 CFR part 91, subpart K, we suggest that 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. 2015-0045, dated March 13, 2015, and corrected
April 2, 2015, and in EASA AD No. 2016-0002, dated January 4, 2016.
You may view the EASA ADs on the Internet at https://www.regulations.gov in Docket No. FAA-2017-0061.
(h) Subject
Joint Aircraft Service Component (JASC) Code: 6200, Main Rotor
System.
(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 MBB-BK117 C-2-62A-
009, Revision 1, dated October 28, 2015.
(ii) Airbus Helicopters Alert Service Bulletin MBB-BK117 D-2-
62A-001, Revision 1, dated October 28, 2015.
(3) For Airbus Helicopters service information identified in
this AD, contact Airbus Helicopters, 2701 N. Forum Drive, Grand
Prairie, TX 75052; telephone (972) 641-0000 or (800) 232-0323; fax
(972) 641-3775; or at https://www.airbushelicopters.com/website/en/ref/Technical-Support_73.html.
(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 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 June 6, 2017.
Scott A. Horn,
Acting Manager, Rotorcraft Directorate, Aircraft Certification Service.
[FR Doc. 2017-12800 Filed 6-21-17; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE 4910-13-P