Airworthiness Directives; Agusta S.p.A. Helicopters, 42441-42443 [2017-18972]

Download as PDF 42441 Rules and Regulations Federal Register Vol. 82, No. 173 Friday, September 8, 2017 This section of the FEDERAL REGISTER contains regulatory documents having general applicability and legal effect, most of which are keyed to and codified in the Code of Federal Regulations, which is published under 50 titles pursuant to 44 U.S.C. 1510. The Code of Federal Regulations is sold by the Superintendent of Documents. DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION Federal Aviation Administration 14 CFR Part 39 [Docket No. FAA–2017–0308; Product Identifier 2016–SW–083–AD; Amendment 39–19022; AD 2017–18–13] RIN 2120–AA64 Airworthiness Directives; Agusta S.p.A. Helicopters Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), Department of Transportation (DOT). ACTION: Final rule; request for comments. AGENCY: We are superseding Airworthiness Directive (AD) 2015–22– 51 for Agusta S.p.A. (Agusta) Model A109A and A109A II helicopters. AD 2015–22–51 required pre-flight checking and inspecting each main rotor blade (blade) for a crack and replacing any cracked blade. This new AD removes the check and requires inspecting each blade more frequently. This AD is prompted by a crack that was not detected during any of the pre-flight checks. The actions of this AD are intended to address the unsafe condition on these products. DATES: This AD becomes effective September 25, 2017. We must receive comments on this AD by November 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 sradovich on DSK3GMQ082PROD with RULES SUMMARY: VerDate Sep<11>2014 16:18 Sep 07, 2017 Jkt 241001 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– 0308; or in person at the Docket Operations Office between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m., Monday through Friday, except Federal holidays. The AD docket contains this AD, the European Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) AD, the economic evaluation, any comments received, and other information. The street address for the Docket Operations Office (telephone 800–647–5527) is in the ADDRESSES section. Comments will be available in the AD docket shortly after receipt. For service information identified in this final rule, contact Leonardo S.p.A. Helicopters, Matteo Ragazzi, Head of Airworthiness, Viale G.Agusta 520, 21017 C.Costa di Samarate (Va) Italy; telephone +39–0331–711756; fax +39– 0331–229046; or at https://www.leonardo company.com/-/bulletins. 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: Matt Fuller, Senior Aviation Safety Engineer, Safety Management Section, Rotorcraft Standards Branch, FAA, 10101 Hillwood Pkwy, Fort Worth, TX 76177; telephone (817) 222–5110; email matthew.fuller@faa.gov. SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: Comments Invited This AD is a final rule that involves requirements affecting flight safety, and we did not provide you with notice and an opportunity to provide your comments prior to it becoming effective. However, we invite you to participate in this rulemaking by submitting written comments, data, or views. We also invite comments relating to the economic, environmental, energy, or federalism impacts that resulted from adopting this AD. The most helpful comments reference a specific portion of the AD, explain the reason for any recommended change, and include supporting data. To ensure the docket does not contain duplicate comments, commenters should send only one copy PO 00000 Frm 00001 Fmt 4700 Sfmt 4700 of written comments, or if comments are filed electronically, commenters should submit them only one time. We will file in the docket all comments that we receive, as well as a report summarizing each substantive public contact with FAA personnel concerning this rulemaking during the comment period. We will consider all the comments we receive and may conduct additional rulemaking based on those comments. Discussion We issued Emergency AD 2015–22– 51, which was published in the Federal Register as a Final rule; request for comments on February 1, 2016, at 81 FR 5037. AD 2015–22–51 applied to Agusta Model A109A and A109AII helicopters with a blade part number (P/N) 109– 0103–01–7, P/N 109–0103–01–9, or P/N 109–0103–01–115 that had 500 or more hours time-in-service (TIS). AD 2015– 22–51 required, before further flight and every 24 clock-hours, inspecting the top and bottom surface of each blade for a crack. AD 2015–22–51 also required, before each flight, checking the top and bottom surface of each blade for a crack. AD 2015–22–51 allowed this check to be performed by a pilot and required further inspection of the blade if there was a crack. AD 2015–22–51 was prompted by AD No. 2015–0190–E, dated September 18, 2015, issued by EASA, which is the Technical Agent for the Member States of the European Union, to correct an unsafe condition for Agusta Model A109A and A109A II helicopters. EASA advised that abnormal vibrations were reported during a flight on a Model A109A II helicopter. During a post-flight inspection, a crack was found on a P/N 109–0103–01–9 blade. EASA AD No. 2015–0190–E required pre-flight inspections and repetitive inspections of each blade. EASA advised that due to similarity of design, the inspections also applied to P/N 109–0103–01–7 and P/N 109–0103–01–115 blades. EASA further advised that a cracked blade, if not detected and corrected, could affect the structural integrity of the blade, possibly resulting in blade failure and loss of control of the helicopter. EASA revised its AD and issued AD No. 2015–0190R1, dated October 23, 2015, to extend the interval of the repetitive inspections to 10 flight hours. E:\FR\FM\08SER1.SGM 08SER1 42442 Federal Register / Vol. 82, No. 173 / Friday, September 8, 2017 / Rules and Regulations Actions Since AD 2015–22–51 Was Issued Since we issued AD 2015–22–51, Leonardo Helicopters (previously Agusta) issued Alert Bollettino Tecnico (BT) No. 109–150, Revision B, dated October 21, 2016, and EASA superseded AD 2015–0190R1 by issuing AD No. 2016–0213, dated October 26, 2016. EASA AD No. 2016–0213 was prompted by a crack in a blade P/N 109–0103–01– 9 on a Model A109A II helicopter that was not detected during any of the preflight inspections. Upon a subsequent review of data, it was determined that the pre-flight inspections were ineffective to address the unsafe condition and that a shorter interval of the repetitive inspection is necessary. For these reasons, EASA AD 2016–0213 requires inspecting the blades for a crack at intervals not exceeding five flight hours. Additionally, the FAA is in the process of updating Agusta’s name change to Leonardo Helicopters on its FAA type certificate. Because this name change is not yet effective, this AD specifies Agusta. Comments on AD 2015–22–51 After our Final rule; request for comments was published, we received comments from one commenter. sradovich on DSK3GMQ082PROD with RULES Request The commenter stated the AD’s cost estimate for a new blade is erroneous, and while the AD identifies the cost of a single inspection, it does not account for the cumulative cost of the daily inspection over time. We agree. We have revised the cost of the blade in this final rule. As far as a cumulative cost of the repetitive inspections, this new AD changes the compliance interval to every 5 hours TIS. Since the cumulative cost would be different for every operator, we have made no change to the estimated costs in this regard. The commenter also requested the FAA require Agusta to design and provide a new blade to operators at no charge. The commenter stated the actual cost of the AD is financially devastating to operators and renders the helicopter worthless. We do not have the authority to direct manufacturers to provide parts or repairs to operators at no charge. We can only require repair or replacement of defective components that are installed on the helicopter. In light of this, we have made no change to the AD in this regard. VerDate Sep<11>2014 16:18 Sep 07, 2017 Jkt 241001 FAA’s Determination These helicopters have been approved by the aviation authority of Italy and are approved for operation in the United States. Pursuant to our bilateral agreement with Italy, 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. Related Service Information We reviewed Leonardo Helicopters Alert BT No. 109–150, Revision B, dated October 21, 2016. This service information specifies inspecting the top and bottom surfaces of each blade for a crack in the area between station 1550 (the station at the end of the doublers) and station 3100 (the station at the beginning of the abrasion strip) for a crack every 5 flight hours and replacing a cracked blade. AD Requirements This AD requires, before further flight, unless done within the last 5 hours TIS, and thereafter at intervals not to exceed 5 hours TIS, visually inspecting the top and bottom surface of each blade for a crack in the area between stations 1550 and 3100 using a 3X or higher power magnifying glass. If there is a crack, this AD requires replacing the blade. Differences Between This AD and the EASA AD The EASA AD requires a type II dye penetrant inspection if in doubt about whether there is a crack, while this AD does not. The EASA AD also includes warning the pilot regarding cracked blades resulting in possible vibration, while this AD does not. Interim Action We consider this AD interim action. If final action is later identified, we might consider further rulemaking then. Costs of Compliance We estimate that this AD affects 33 helicopters of U.S. Registry. We estimate that operators may incur the following costs in order to comply with this AD. Labor costs are estimated at $85 per work-hour. We estimate 8 work-hours to inspect a set of four blades at a cost of $680 per helicopter and $22,440 for the fleet per inspection cycle. We estimate 4 work-hours to replace a blade and the required parts will cost $124,000, for a replacement cost of $124,340 per blade. According to Leonardo Helicopter’s service information, some of the costs of PO 00000 Frm 00002 Fmt 4700 Sfmt 4700 this AD may be covered under warranty, thereby reducing the cost impact on affected individuals. We do not control warranty coverage by Leonardo Helicopter. Accordingly, we have included all costs in our cost estimate. FAA’s Justification and Determination of the Effective Date Providing an opportunity for public comments prior to adopting these AD requirements would delay implementing the safety actions needed to correct this known unsafe condition. Therefore, we find that the risk to the flying public justifies waiving notice and comment prior to the adoption of this rule because the required corrective actions must be completed before further flight or within 5 hours TIS after the effective date of this AD. Since an unsafe condition exists that requires the immediate adoption of this AD, we determined that notice and opportunity for public comment before issuing this AD are impracticable and that good cause exists for making this amendment effective in less than 30 days. Authority for This Rulemaking Title 49 of the United States Code specifies the FAA’s authority to issue rules on aviation safety. Subtitle I, section 106, describes the authority of the FAA Administrator. ‘‘Subtitle VII: Aviation Programs,’’ describes in more detail the scope of the Agency’s authority. We are issuing this rulemaking under the authority described in ‘‘Subtitle VII, Part A, Subpart III, Section 44701: General requirements.’’ Under that section, Congress charges the FAA with promoting safe flight of civil aircraft in air commerce by prescribing regulations for practices, methods, and procedures the Administrator finds necessary for safety in air commerce. This regulation is within the scope of that authority because it addresses an unsafe condition that is likely to exist or develop on products identified in this rulemaking action. Regulatory Findings We determined that this AD will not have federalism implications under Executive Order 13132. This AD will not have a substantial direct effect on the States, on the relationship between the national Government and the States, or on the distribution of power and responsibilities among the various levels of government. For the reasons discussed, I certify that this AD: 1. Is not a ‘‘significant regulatory action’’ under Executive Order 12866; E:\FR\FM\08SER1.SGM 08SER1 Federal Register / Vol. 82, No. 173 / Friday, September 8, 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 removing Airworthiness Directive (AD) 2015–22–51, Amendment 39–18386 (81 FR 5037, February 1, 2016), and adding the following new AD: ■ 2017–18–13 Agusta S.p.A.: Amendment 39– 19022; Docket No. FAA–2017–0308; Product Identifier 2016–SW–083–AD. (a) Applicability This AD applies to Model A109A and A109A II helicopters with a main rotor blade (blade) part number (P/N) 109–0103–01–7, P/N 109–0103–01–9, or P/N 109–0103–01– 115 that has 500 or more hours time-inservice (TIS) installed, certificated in any category. (b) Unsafe Condition This AD defines the unsafe condition as a crack in a blade. This condition could result in failure of a blade and subsequent loss of control of the helicopter. sradovich on DSK3GMQ082PROD with RULES (c) Affected ADs This AD supersedes AD 2015–22–51, Amendment 39–18386 (81 FR 5037, February 1, 2016). (d) Effective Date This AD becomes effective September 25, 2017. (e) 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. VerDate Sep<11>2014 16:18 Sep 07, 2017 Jkt 241001 (f) Required Actions Before further flight, unless already done within the last 5 hours TIS, and thereafter at intervals not to exceed 5 hours TIS: (1) Using a 3X or higher power magnifying glass, visually inspect the top and bottom surface of each blade for a crack in the area between the station at the end of the doublers (station 1550) and the station at the beginning of the abrasion strip (station 3100). (2) If there is a crack, replace the blade before further flight. Replacing the blade with blade P/N 109–0103–01–7, P/N 109–0103– 01–9, or P/N 109–0103–01–115 does not constitute terminating action for the repetitive inspections required by this AD. (g) Special Flight Permits Special flight permits are prohibited. (h) Alternative Methods of Compliance (AMOCs) (1) The Manager, Safety Management Section, FAA, may approve AMOCs for this AD. Send your proposal to: Matt Fuller, Senior Aviation Safety Engineer, Safety Management Section, Rotorcraft Standards Branch, FAA, 10101 Hillwood Pkwy, Fort Worth, TX 76177; telephone (817) 222–5110; email 9-ASW-FTW-AMOC-Requests@faa.gov. (2) For operations conducted under a 14 CFR part 119 operating certificate or under 14 CFR part 91, subpart K, we suggest that 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. (i) Additional Information (1) Leonardo Helicopters Alert Bollettino Tecnico No. 109–150, Revision B, dated October 21, 2016, which is not incorporated by reference, contains additional information about the subject of this AD. For service information identified in this AD, contact Leonardo S.p.A. Helicopters, Matteo Ragazzi, Head of Airworthiness, Viale G.Agusta 520, 21017 C.Costa di Samarate (Va) Italy; telephone +39–0331–711756; fax +39–0331– 229046; or at https://www.leonardo company.com/-/bulletins. You may review a copy of the service information at the FAA, Office of the Regional Counsel, Southwest Region, 10101 Hillwood Pkwy, Room 6N– 321, Fort Worth, TX 76177. (2) The subject of this AD is addressed in European Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) AD No. 2016–0213, dated October 26, 2016. You may view the EASA AD on the Internet at https://www.regulations.gov by searching for and locating it in Docket No. FAA–2017– 0308. (j) Subject Joint Aircraft Service Component (JASC) Code: 6210, Main Rotor Blade. Issued in Fort Worth, Texas, on August 30, 2017. Lance T. Gant, Director, Compliance & Airworthiness Division, Aircraft Certification Service. [FR Doc. 2017–18972 Filed 9–7–17; 8:45 am] BILLING CODE 4910–13–P PO 00000 Frm 00003 Fmt 4700 Sfmt 4700 42443 DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION Federal Aviation Administration 14 CFR Part 39 [Docket No. FAA–2011–0961; Product Identifier 2011–NE–22–AD; Amendment 39– 19023; AD 2017–18–14] RIN 2120–AA64 Airworthiness Directives; Rolls-Royce Corporation Turboshaft Engines Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), DOT. ACTION: Final rule. AGENCY: We are superseding Airworthiness Directive (AD) 2015–02– 22 for certain Rolls-Royce Corporation (RRC) model 250 turboprop and turboshaft engines. AD 2015–02–22 required repetitive visual inspections and fluorescent-penetrant inspection (FPIs) on certain 3rd-stage and 4th-stage turbine wheels for cracks in the turbine wheel blades. This AD requires repetitive visual inspections and FPIs of 3rd-stage turbine wheels while removing from service 4th-stage turbine wheels. We are also revising the applicability to remove all RRC turboprop engines and add additional turboshaft engines. This AD was prompted by our finding that it is necessary to remove the 4th-stage wheels at the next inspection. We are issuing this AD to address the unsafe condition on these products. DATES: This AD is effective October 13, 2017. ADDRESSES: See the FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT section. SUMMARY: 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–2011– 0961; 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 final rule, the regulatory evaluation, any comments received, and other information. The address for the Docket Office (phone: 800–647–5527) is Document 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 FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: John Tallarovic, Aerospace Engineer, FAA, Chicago ACO Branch, Compliance and Airworthiness Division, 2300 E. Devon Ave., Des Plaines, IL 60018; phone: E:\FR\FM\08SER1.SGM 08SER1

Agencies

[Federal Register Volume 82, Number 173 (Friday, September 8, 2017)]
[Rules and Regulations]
[Pages 42441-42443]
From the Federal Register Online via the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]
[FR Doc No: 2017-18972]



========================================================================
Rules and Regulations
                                                Federal Register
________________________________________________________________________

This section of the FEDERAL REGISTER contains regulatory documents 
having general applicability and legal effect, most of which are keyed 
to and codified in the Code of Federal Regulations, which is published 
under 50 titles pursuant to 44 U.S.C. 1510.

The Code of Federal Regulations is sold by the Superintendent of Documents. 

========================================================================


Federal Register / Vol. 82, No. 173 / Friday, September 8, 2017 / 
Rules and Regulations

[[Page 42441]]



DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION

Federal Aviation Administration

14 CFR Part 39

[Docket No. FAA-2017-0308; Product Identifier 2016-SW-083-AD; Amendment 
39-19022; AD 2017-18-13]
RIN 2120-AA64


Airworthiness Directives; Agusta S.p.A. Helicopters

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

ACTION: Final rule; request for comments.

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

SUMMARY: We are superseding Airworthiness Directive (AD) 2015-22-51 for 
Agusta S.p.A. (Agusta) Model A109A and A109A II helicopters. AD 2015-
22-51 required pre-flight checking and inspecting each main rotor blade 
(blade) for a crack and replacing any cracked blade. This new AD 
removes the check and requires inspecting each blade more frequently. 
This AD is prompted by a crack that was not detected during any of the 
pre-flight checks. The actions of this AD are intended to address the 
unsafe condition on these products.

DATES: This AD becomes effective September 25, 2017.
    We must receive comments on this AD by November 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-
0308; or in person at the Docket Operations Office between 9 a.m. and 5 
p.m., Monday through Friday, except Federal holidays. The AD docket 
contains this AD, the European Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) AD, the 
economic evaluation, any comments received, and other information. The 
street address for the Docket Operations Office (telephone 800-647-
5527) is in the ADDRESSES section. Comments will be available in the AD 
docket shortly after receipt.
    For service information identified in this final rule, contact 
Leonardo S.p.A. Helicopters, Matteo Ragazzi, Head of Airworthiness, 
Viale G.Agusta 520, 21017 C.Costa di Samarate (Va) Italy; telephone 
+39-0331-711756; fax +39-0331-229046; or at https://www.leonardocompany.com/-/bulletins. 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: Matt Fuller, Senior Aviation Safety 
Engineer, Safety Management Section, Rotorcraft Standards Branch, FAA, 
10101 Hillwood Pkwy, Fort Worth, TX 76177; telephone (817) 222-5110; 
email matthew.fuller@faa.gov.

SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: 

Comments Invited

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

Discussion

    We issued Emergency AD 2015-22-51, which was published in the 
Federal Register as a Final rule; request for comments on February 1, 
2016, at 81 FR 5037. AD 2015-22-51 applied to Agusta Model A109A and 
A109AII helicopters with a blade part number (P/N) 109-0103-01-7, P/N 
109-0103-01-9, or P/N 109-0103-01-115 that had 500 or more hours time-
in-service (TIS). AD 2015-22-51 required, before further flight and 
every 24 clock-hours, inspecting the top and bottom surface of each 
blade for a crack. AD 2015-22-51 also required, before each flight, 
checking the top and bottom surface of each blade for a crack. AD 2015-
22-51 allowed this check to be performed by a pilot and required 
further inspection of the blade if there was a crack.
    AD 2015-22-51 was prompted by AD No. 2015-0190-E, dated September 
18, 2015, issued by EASA, which is the Technical Agent for the Member 
States of the European Union, to correct an unsafe condition for Agusta 
Model A109A and A109A II helicopters. EASA advised that abnormal 
vibrations were reported during a flight on a Model A109A II 
helicopter. During a post-flight inspection, a crack was found on a P/N 
109-0103-01-9 blade. EASA AD No. 2015-0190-E required pre-flight 
inspections and repetitive inspections of each blade. EASA advised that 
due to similarity of design, the inspections also applied to P/N 109-
0103-01-7 and P/N 109-0103-01-115 blades. EASA further advised that a 
cracked blade, if not detected and corrected, could affect the 
structural integrity of the blade, possibly resulting in blade failure 
and loss of control of the helicopter. EASA revised its AD and issued 
AD No. 2015-0190R1, dated October 23, 2015, to extend the interval of 
the repetitive inspections to 10 flight hours.

[[Page 42442]]

Actions Since AD 2015-22-51 Was Issued

    Since we issued AD 2015-22-51, Leonardo Helicopters (previously 
Agusta) issued Alert Bollettino Tecnico (BT) No. 109-150, Revision B, 
dated October 21, 2016, and EASA superseded AD 2015-0190R1 by issuing 
AD No. 2016-0213, dated October 26, 2016. EASA AD No. 2016-0213 was 
prompted by a crack in a blade P/N 109-0103-01-9 on a Model A109A II 
helicopter that was not detected during any of the pre-flight 
inspections. Upon a subsequent review of data, it was determined that 
the pre-flight inspections were ineffective to address the unsafe 
condition and that a shorter interval of the repetitive inspection is 
necessary. For these reasons, EASA AD 2016-0213 requires inspecting the 
blades for a crack at intervals not exceeding five flight hours.
    Additionally, the FAA is in the process of updating Agusta's name 
change to Leonardo Helicopters on its FAA type certificate. Because 
this name change is not yet effective, this AD specifies Agusta.

Comments on AD 2015-22-51

    After our Final rule; request for comments was published, we 
received comments from one commenter.

Request

    The commenter stated the AD's cost estimate for a new blade is 
erroneous, and while the AD identifies the cost of a single inspection, 
it does not account for the cumulative cost of the daily inspection 
over time.
    We agree. We have revised the cost of the blade in this final rule. 
As far as a cumulative cost of the repetitive inspections, this new AD 
changes the compliance interval to every 5 hours TIS. Since the 
cumulative cost would be different for every operator, we have made no 
change to the estimated costs in this regard.
    The commenter also requested the FAA require Agusta to design and 
provide a new blade to operators at no charge. The commenter stated the 
actual cost of the AD is financially devastating to operators and 
renders the helicopter worthless.
    We do not have the authority to direct manufacturers to provide 
parts or repairs to operators at no charge. We can only require repair 
or replacement of defective components that are installed on the 
helicopter. In light of this, we have made no change to the AD in this 
regard.

FAA's Determination

    These helicopters have been approved by the aviation authority of 
Italy and are approved for operation in the United States. Pursuant to 
our bilateral agreement with Italy, 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.

Related Service Information

    We reviewed Leonardo Helicopters Alert BT No. 109-150, Revision B, 
dated October 21, 2016. This service information specifies inspecting 
the top and bottom surfaces of each blade for a crack in the area 
between station 1550 (the station at the end of the doublers) and 
station 3100 (the station at the beginning of the abrasion strip) for a 
crack every 5 flight hours and replacing a cracked blade.

AD Requirements

    This AD requires, before further flight, unless done within the 
last 5 hours TIS, and thereafter at intervals not to exceed 5 hours 
TIS, visually inspecting the top and bottom surface of each blade for a 
crack in the area between stations 1550 and 3100 using a 3X or higher 
power magnifying glass. If there is a crack, this AD requires replacing 
the blade.

Differences Between This AD and the EASA AD

    The EASA AD requires a type II dye penetrant inspection if in doubt 
about whether there is a crack, while this AD does not. The EASA AD 
also includes warning the pilot regarding cracked blades resulting in 
possible vibration, while this AD does not.

Interim Action

    We consider this AD interim action. If final action is later 
identified, we might consider further rulemaking then.

Costs of Compliance

    We estimate that this AD affects 33 helicopters of U.S. Registry. 
We estimate that operators may incur the following costs in order to 
comply with this AD. Labor costs are estimated at $85 per work-hour. We 
estimate 8 work-hours to inspect a set of four blades at a cost of $680 
per helicopter and $22,440 for the fleet per inspection cycle. We 
estimate 4 work-hours to replace a blade and the required parts will 
cost $124,000, for a replacement cost of $124,340 per blade.
    According to Leonardo Helicopter's service information, some of the 
costs of this AD may be covered under warranty, thereby reducing the 
cost impact on affected individuals. We do not control warranty 
coverage by Leonardo Helicopter. Accordingly, we have included all 
costs in our cost estimate.

FAA's Justification and Determination of the Effective Date

    Providing an opportunity for public comments prior to adopting 
these AD requirements would delay implementing the safety actions 
needed to correct this known unsafe condition. Therefore, we find that 
the risk to the flying public justifies waiving notice and comment 
prior to the adoption of this rule because the required corrective 
actions must be completed before further flight or within 5 hours TIS 
after the effective date of this AD.
    Since an unsafe condition exists that requires the immediate 
adoption of this AD, we determined that notice and opportunity for 
public comment before issuing this AD are impracticable and that good 
cause exists for making this amendment effective in less than 30 days.

Authority for This Rulemaking

    Title 49 of the United States Code specifies the FAA's authority to 
issue rules on aviation safety. Subtitle I, section 106, describes the 
authority of the FAA Administrator. ``Subtitle VII: Aviation 
Programs,'' describes in more detail the scope of the Agency's 
authority.
    We are issuing this rulemaking under the authority described in 
``Subtitle VII, Part A, Subpart III, Section 44701: General 
requirements.'' Under that section, Congress charges the FAA with 
promoting safe flight of civil aircraft in air commerce by prescribing 
regulations for practices, methods, and procedures the Administrator 
finds necessary for safety in air commerce. This regulation is within 
the scope of that authority because it addresses an unsafe condition 
that is likely to exist or develop on products identified in this 
rulemaking action.

Regulatory Findings

    We determined that this AD will not have federalism implications 
under Executive Order 13132. This AD will not have a substantial direct 
effect on the States, on the relationship between the national 
Government and the States, or on the distribution of power and 
responsibilities among the various levels of government.
    For the reasons discussed, I certify that this AD:
    1. Is not a ``significant regulatory action'' under Executive Order 
12866;

[[Page 42443]]

    2. Is not a ``significant rule'' under DOT Regulatory Policies and 
Procedures (44 FR 11034, February 26, 1979);
    3. Will not affect intrastate aviation in Alaska to the extent that 
it justifies making a regulatory distinction; and
    4. Will not have a significant economic impact, positive or 
negative, on a substantial number of small entities under the criteria 
of the Regulatory Flexibility Act.
    We prepared an economic evaluation of the estimated costs to comply 
with this AD and placed it in the AD docket.

List of Subjects in 14 CFR Part 39

    Air transportation, Aircraft, Aviation safety, Incorporation by 
reference, Safety.

Adoption of the Amendment

    Accordingly, under the authority delegated to me by the 
Administrator, the FAA amends 14 CFR part 39 as follows:

PART 39--AIRWORTHINESS DIRECTIVES

0
1. The authority citation for part 39 continues to read as follows:

    Authority: 49 U.S.C. 106(g), 40113, 44701.


Sec.  39.13  [Amended]

0
2. The FAA amends Sec.  39.13 by removing Airworthiness Directive (AD) 
2015-22-51, Amendment 39-18386 (81 FR 5037, February 1, 2016), and 
adding the following new AD:

2017-18-13 Agusta S.p.A.: Amendment 39-19022; Docket No. FAA-2017-
0308; Product Identifier 2016-SW-083-AD.

(a) Applicability

    This AD applies to Model A109A and A109A II helicopters with a 
main rotor blade (blade) part number (P/N) 109-0103-01-7, P/N 109-
0103-01-9, or P/N 109-0103-01-115 that has 500 or more hours time-
in-service (TIS) installed, certificated in any category.

(b) Unsafe Condition

    This AD defines the unsafe condition as a crack in a blade. This 
condition could result in failure of a blade and subsequent loss of 
control of the helicopter.

(c) Affected ADs

    This AD supersedes AD 2015-22-51, Amendment 39-18386 (81 FR 
5037, February 1, 2016).

(d) Effective Date

    This AD becomes effective September 25, 2017.

(e) 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.

(f) Required Actions

    Before further flight, unless already done within the last 5 
hours TIS, and thereafter at intervals not to exceed 5 hours TIS:
    (1) Using a 3X or higher power magnifying glass, visually 
inspect the top and bottom surface of each blade for a crack in the 
area between the station at the end of the doublers (station 1550) 
and the station at the beginning of the abrasion strip (station 
3100).
    (2) If there is a crack, replace the blade before further 
flight. Replacing the blade with blade P/N 109-0103-01-7, P/N 109-
0103-01-9, or P/N 109-0103-01-115 does not constitute terminating 
action for the repetitive inspections required by this AD.

(g) Special Flight Permits

    Special flight permits are prohibited.

(h) Alternative Methods of Compliance (AMOCs)

    (1) The Manager, Safety Management Section, FAA, may approve 
AMOCs for this AD. Send your proposal to: Matt Fuller, Senior 
Aviation Safety Engineer, Safety Management Section, Rotorcraft 
Standards Branch, FAA, 10101 Hillwood Pkwy, Fort Worth, TX 76177; 
telephone (817) 222-5110; email 9-ASW-FTW-AMOC-Requests@faa.gov.
    (2) For operations conducted under a 14 CFR part 119 operating 
certificate or under 14 CFR part 91, subpart K, we suggest that 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.

(i) Additional Information

    (1) Leonardo Helicopters Alert Bollettino Tecnico No. 109-150, 
Revision B, dated October 21, 2016, which is not incorporated by 
reference, contains additional information about the subject of this 
AD. For service information identified in this AD, contact Leonardo 
S.p.A. Helicopters, Matteo Ragazzi, Head of Airworthiness, Viale 
G.Agusta 520, 21017 C.Costa di Samarate (Va) Italy; telephone +39-
0331-711756; fax +39-0331-229046; or at https://www.leonardocompany.com/-/bulletins. You may review a copy of the 
service information at the FAA, Office of the Regional Counsel, 
Southwest Region, 10101 Hillwood Pkwy, Room 6N-321, Fort Worth, TX 
76177.
    (2) The subject of this AD is addressed in European Aviation 
Safety Agency (EASA) AD No. 2016-0213, dated October 26, 2016. You 
may view the EASA AD on the Internet at https://www.regulations.gov 
by searching for and locating it in Docket No. FAA-2017-0308.

(j) Subject

    Joint Aircraft Service Component (JASC) Code: 6210, Main Rotor 
Blade.

    Issued in Fort Worth, Texas, on August 30, 2017.
Lance T. Gant,
Director, Compliance & Airworthiness Division, Aircraft Certification 
Service.
[FR Doc. 2017-18972 Filed 9-7-17; 8:45 am]
 BILLING CODE 4910-13-P

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