Airworthiness Directives; Airbus Helicopters Deutschland GmbH Helicopters, 17510-17512 [2018-08097]

Download as PDF 17510 Federal Register / Vol. 83, No. 77 / Friday, April 20, 2018 / Proposed Rules In the SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION caption, in the third column, correct the first full paragraph to read: The Commission seeks comments on the petition. The public may inspect the petition on the Commission’s website at https://sers.fec.gov/fosers/ rulemaking.htm?pid=2883684, or in the Commission’s Public Records Office, 1050 First Street NE, 12th Floor, Washington, DC 20463, Monday through Friday, from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. On behalf of the Commission. Dated: April 3, 2018. Caroline C. Hunter, Chair, Federal Election Commission. [FR Doc. 2018–08264 Filed 4–19–18; 8:45 am] BILLING CODE 6715–01–P DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION Federal Aviation Administration 14 CFR Part 39 [Docket No. FAA–2016–9395; Product Identifier 2016–SW–027–AD] RIN 2120–AA64 Airworthiness Directives; Airbus Helicopters Deutschland GmbH Helicopters Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), DOT. ACTION: Notice of proposed rulemaking (NPRM). AGENCY: We propose to adopt a new airworthiness directive (AD) for various Airbus Helicopters Deutschland GmbH (Airbus Helicopters) Model MBB– BK117 and Model BO–105 helicopters. This proposed AD would require removing the swashplate bellows (bellows) and repetitively inspecting the swashplate assembly. This proposed AD is prompted by reports of loose and missing clamps installed on bellows. The proposed actions are intended to detect and prevent an unsafe condition on these products. DATES: We must receive comments on this proposed AD by June 19, 2018. 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. sradovich on DSK3GMQ082PROD with PROPOSALS SUMMARY: VerDate Sep<11>2014 16:41 Apr 19, 2018 Jkt 244001 • 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–2016– 9395; or in person at Docket Operations between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m., Monday through Friday, except Federal holidays. The AD docket contains this proposed AD, the European Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) AD, the economic evaluation, any comments received, and other information. The street address for Docket Operations (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 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/techpub. You may review the referenced service information at the FAA, Office of the Regional Counsel, Southwest Region, 10101 Hillwood Pkwy, Room 6N–321, Fort Worth, TX 76177. 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 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 PO 00000 Frm 00010 Fmt 4702 Sfmt 4702 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 EASA, which is the aviation authority for Germany, has issued AD No. 2016– 0142, dated July 19, 2016, to correct an unsafe condition for Airbus Helicopters Model MBB–BK 117A–1, MBB–BK 117A–3, MBB–BK 117A–4, MBB–BK 117B–1, MBB–BK 117B–2, MBB–BK 117C–1, MBB–BK 117C–2, MBB–BK 117C–2e, BO–105A, BO–105C, BO– 105D, BO105S, BO–105LS A–3 helicopters. EASA advises of several reports of a lower clamp found missing from the bellows and damaging the swashplate bearing ring before becoming detached. EASA states an investigation showed that over-torqueing can damage the clamp, which may have caused the clamp to become loose and detach. According to EASA, this condition, if not detected and corrected, could lead to loss of a swashplate clamp, resulting in loss of helicopter control. A detached clamp could damage the swashplate and pitch link or strike the tail rotor. EASA states that its AD is considered interim action and a further AD to implement a terminating action will follow. 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 its AD. We are proposing this AD because we evaluated all known relevant information and determined that an unsafe condition is likely to exist or develop on other products of the same type design. Related Service Information Under 1 CFR Part 51 We reviewed Airbus Helicopters Alert Service Bulletin (ASB) BO105–40A–107 for Model BO105 C-series, D-series and S-series helicopters; ASB BO105 LS– 40A–12 for Model BO–105LS A–3 helicopters; ASB MBB–BK117–40A–115 for Model MBB–BK 117A–1, MBB–BK 117A–3, MBB–BK 117A–4, MBB–BK 117B–1, MBB–BK 117B–2, and MBB– BK 117C–1 helicopters; and ASB MBB– BK117 C–2–62A–007 for Model MBB– BK 117C–2 and MBB–BK 117C–2e helicopters. These ASBs are all Revision 4 and all dated May 23, 2016. We also E:\FR\FM\20APP1.SGM 20APP1 Federal Register / Vol. 83, No. 77 / Friday, April 20, 2018 / Proposed Rules reviewed Airbus Helicopters ASB MBB– BK117 D–2–62A–003, Revision 2, dated May 23, 2016, for Model MBB–BK117 D–2 and MBB–BK117 D–2m helicopters. This service information specifies removing the bellows and repetitively inspecting the swashplate. 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. Proposed AD Requirements This proposed AD would require a one-time inspection within 50 hours time-in-service (TIS) and repetitive inspections every 100 hours TIS and every 400 hours TIS, by following the instructions in the manufacturer’s service bulletin. This proposed AD would also prohibit installing on any helicopter bellows P/N 105–10113.05, P/N 4619305044, and P/N 4638305043 and any gearbox that has these bellows installed. Differences Between This Proposed AD and the EASA AD The EASA AD requires compliance within different time intervals for some actions than what this proposed AD would require. The EASA AD allows a non-cumulative tolerance of 10 percent that may be applied to the compliance times, and this proposed AD would not. The EASA AD allows replacing the bellows clamps with cable ties before removing the bellows, and this proposed AD would not. This proposed AD would apply to Model MBB–BK 117D–2 helicopters while the EASA AD does not. The EASA AD applies to Model BO–105D helicopters, while this proposed AD would not. sradovich on DSK3GMQ082PROD with PROPOSALS Interim Action We consider this proposed 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. Costs of Compliance We estimate that this proposed AD would affect 286 helicopters of U.S. Registry and that labor costs would average $85 per work hour. Based on these estimates, we expect the following costs: • Removing and inspecting the swashplate assembly would require 3 work-hours. No parts would be needed for a cost of $255 per helicopter and $72,930 for the U.S. fleet per inspection cycle. VerDate Sep<11>2014 16:41 Apr 19, 2018 Jkt 244001 • Repairing a scratched support tube would require 3 work-hours. No parts would be needed for a cost of $255 per helicopter. • Replacing a corroded or damaged clamp would require 2 work-hours. Parts would cost $8 for a cost of $178 per helicopter. • Replacing corroded ball bearings would require 4 work-hours. Parts would cost $3,000 for a cost of $3,340 per helicopter. • Removing foreign objects from the outer deflection ring would require 2 work-hours. No parts would be needed for a cost of $170 per helicopter. 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. PO 00000 Frm 00011 Fmt 4702 Sfmt 4702 17511 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): ■ Airbus Helicopters Deutschland GmbH: Docket No. FAA–2016–9395; Product Identifier 2016–SW–027–AD. (a) Applicability This AD applies to Airbus Helicopters Deutschland GmbH Model BO–105A, BO– 105C, BO–105S, BO105LS A–3, MBB–BK 117A–1, MBB–BK 117A–3, MBB–BK 117A– 4, MBB–BK 117B–1, MBB–BK 117B–2, MBB– BK 117C–1, MBB–BK 117C–2, and MBB–BK 117D–2 helicopters, certificated in any category. Note 1 to paragraph (a) of this AD: Helicopters with an MBB–BK 117C–2e designation are Model MBB–BK 117C–2 helicopters. (b) Unsafe Condition This AD defines the unsafe condition as a loose bellows clamp. This condition can cause loss of the bellows, contact of the bellows with the main rotor blades, main rotor mast, and tail rotor, and subsequent loss of helicopter control. (c) Comments Due Date We must receive comments by June 19, 2018. (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 50 hours time-in-service (TIS): (i) Remove the swashplate bellows (bellows) part number (P/N) 105–10113.05, P/N 4638305043, P/N 4619305044, or B623M20X2240 from the swashplate. (ii) Inspect the swashplate by following the Accomplishment Instructions, paragraph 3.B.1.(h) through 3.B.1.(k) of Airbus Helicopters Alert Service Bulletin (ASB) E:\FR\FM\20APP1.SGM 20APP1 17512 Federal Register / Vol. 83, No. 77 / Friday, April 20, 2018 / Proposed Rules BO105–40A–107, Revision 4, dated May 23, 2016 (ASB BO105–40A–107); ASB BO105 LS 40A–12, Revision 4, dated May 23, 2016 (ASB BO105 LS 40A–12); ASB MBB–BK117– 40A–115, Revision 4, dated May 23, 2016 (ASB MBB–BK117–40A–115); or ASB MBB– BK117 C–2–62A–007, Revision 4, dated May 23, 2016 (ASB MBB–BK117 C–2–62A–007); or paragraph 3.B.1.5 through 3.B.1.8 of Airbus Helicopters ASB MBB–BK117 D–2– 62A–003, Revision 2, dated May 23, 2016 (ASB MBB–BK117 D–2–62A–003); whichever is applicable to your helicopter. If there is corrosion on a ball bearing, you are not required to contact Airbus Helicopters customer support; instead, before further flight, replace the ball bearing. (2) Within 100 hours TIS after complying with the actions in paragraph (1) of this AD, and thereafter at intervals not to exceed 100 hours TIS, inspect the swashplate by following the Accomplishment Instructions, paragraph 3.B.2 of ASB BO105–40A–107, ASB BO105 LS 40A–12, ASB MBB–BK117– 40A–115, ASB MBB–BK117 C–2–62A–007, or ASB MBB–BK117 D–2–62A–003, except you are not required to contact Airbus Helicopters customer support. If there is corrosion on a ball bearing, before further flight, replace the ball bearing. (3) Within 400 hours TIS after complying with the actions in paragraph (1) of this AD, and thereafter at intervals not to exceed 400 hours TIS, inspect the swashplate by following the Accomplishment Instructions, paragraph 3.B.3 of ASB BO105–40A–107, ASB BO105 LS 40A–12, ASB MBB–BK117– 40A–115, ASB MBB–BK117 C–2–62A–007, or ASB MBB–BK117 D–2–62A–003. (4) Do not install a bellows P/N 105– 10113.05, P/N 4619305044, or P/N 4638305043 or a gearbox with a bellows P/N 105–10113.05, P/N 4619305044, or P/N 4638305043 on any helicopter. sradovich on DSK3GMQ082PROD with PROPOSALS (f) Alternative Methods of Compliance (AMOCs) (1) The Manager, Safety Management Section, Rotorcraft Standards Branch, 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-ASWFTW-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. 2016–0142, dated July 19, 2016. You may view the EASA AD on the internet at https:// www.regulations.gov in the AD Docket. (h) Subject Joint Aircraft Service Component (JASC) Code: 6200, Main Rotor System. VerDate Sep<11>2014 16:41 Apr 19, 2018 Jkt 244001 Issued in Fort Worth, Texas, on April 11, 2018. Lance T. Gant, Director, Compliance & Airworthiness Division, Aircraft Certification Service. [FR Doc. 2018–08097 Filed 4–19–18; 8:45 am] BILLING CODE 4910–13–P DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION Federal Aviation Administration 14 CFR Part 71 [Docket No. FAA–2018–0290; Airspace Docket No. 18–AGL–9] RIN 2120–AA66 Proposed Amendment of Class E Airspace; New Castle, IN Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), DOT. ACTION: Notice of proposed rulemaking (NPRM). AGENCY: This action proposes to amend the Class E airspace extending upward from 700 feet above the surface at New Castle-Henry County Municipal Airport, New Castle, IN. The FAA is proposing this action as a result of an airspace review caused by the decommissioning of the Richmond VHF omnidirectional range (VOR) navigation aid as part of the VOR Minimum Operational Network (MON) Program. The geographic coordinates of the airport would also be updated to coincide with the FAA’s aeronautical database. SUMMARY: Comments must be received on or before June 4, 2018. ADDRESSES: Send comments on this proposal to the U.S. Department of Transportation, Docket Operations, West Building Ground Floor, Room W12–140, 1200 New Jersey Avenue SE, Washington, DC 20590; telephone (202) 366–9826, or (800) 647–5527. You must identify FAA Docket No. FAA–2018– 0290; Airspace Docket No. 18–AGL–9, at the beginning of your comments. You may also submit comments through the internet at https://www.regulations.gov. You may review the public docket containing the proposal, any comments received, and any final disposition in person in the Dockets Office between 9:00 a.m. and 5:00 p.m., Monday through Friday, except Federal holidays. FAA Order 7400.11B, Airspace Designations and Reporting Points, and subsequent amendments can be viewed online at https://www.faa.gov/air_traffic/ publications/. For further information, you can contact the Airspace Policy Group, Federal Aviation DATES: PO 00000 Frm 00012 Fmt 4702 Sfmt 4702 Administration, 800 Independence Avenue SW, Washington, DC 20591; telephone: (202) 267–8783. The Order is also available for inspection at the National Archives and Records Administration (NARA). For information on the availability of FAA Order 7400.11B at NARA, call (202) 741–6030, or go to https:// www.archives.gov/federal-register/cfr/ ibr-locations.html. FAA Order 7400.11, Airspace Designations and Reporting Points, is published yearly and effective on September 15. FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Jeffrey Claypool, Federal Aviation Administration, Operations Support Group, Central Service Center, 10101 Hillwood Parkway, Fort Worth, TX 76177; telephone (817) 222–5711. SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: Authority for This Rulemaking The FAA’s authority to issue rules regarding aviation safety is found in Title 49 of the United States Code. 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. This rulemaking is promulgated under the authority described in Subtitle VII, Part A, Subpart I, Section 40103. Under that section, the FAA is charged with prescribing regulations to assign the use of airspace necessary to ensure the safety of aircraft and the efficient use of airspace. This regulation is within the scope of that authority as it would amend Class E airspace extending upward from 700 feet above the surface at New Castle-Henry County Municipal Airport, New Castle, IN, to support instrument flight rule operations at this airport. Comments Invited Interested parties are invited to participate in this proposed rulemaking by submitting such written data, views, or arguments, as they may desire. Comments that provide the factual basis supporting the views and suggestions presented are particularly helpful in developing reasoned regulatory decisions on the proposal. Comments are specifically invited on the overall regulatory, aeronautical, economic, environmental, and energy-related aspects of the proposal. Communications should identify both docket numbers and be submitted in triplicate to the address listed above. Commenters wishing the FAA to acknowledge receipt of their comments on this notice must submit with those E:\FR\FM\20APP1.SGM 20APP1

Agencies

[Federal Register Volume 83, Number 77 (Friday, April 20, 2018)]
[Proposed Rules]
[Pages 17510-17512]
From the Federal Register Online via the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]
[FR Doc No: 2018-08097]


=======================================================================
-----------------------------------------------------------------------

DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION

Federal Aviation Administration

14 CFR Part 39

[Docket No. FAA-2016-9395; Product Identifier 2016-SW-027-AD]
RIN 2120-AA64


Airworthiness Directives; Airbus Helicopters Deutschland GmbH 
Helicopters

AGENCY: Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), DOT.

ACTION: Notice of proposed rulemaking (NPRM).

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

SUMMARY: We propose to adopt a new airworthiness directive (AD) for 
various Airbus Helicopters Deutschland GmbH (Airbus Helicopters) Model 
MBB-BK117 and Model BO-105 helicopters. This proposed AD would require 
removing the swashplate bellows (bellows) and repetitively inspecting 
the swashplate assembly. This proposed AD is prompted by reports of 
loose and missing clamps installed on bellows. The proposed actions are 
intended to detect and prevent an unsafe condition on these products.

DATES: We must receive comments on this proposed AD by June 19, 2018.

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-2016-
9395; or in person at Docket Operations between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m., 
Monday through Friday, except Federal holidays. The AD docket contains 
this proposed AD, the European Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) AD, the 
economic evaluation, any comments received, and other information. The 
street address for Docket Operations (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 
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/techpub.
    You may review the referenced service information at the FAA, 
Office of the Regional Counsel, Southwest Region, 10101 Hillwood Pkwy, 
Room 6N-321, Fort Worth, TX 76177.

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 [email protected].

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

    EASA, which is the aviation authority for Germany, has issued AD 
No. 2016-0142, dated July 19, 2016, to correct an unsafe condition for 
Airbus Helicopters Model MBB-BK 117A-1, MBB-BK 117A-3, MBB-BK 117A-4, 
MBB-BK 117B-1, MBB-BK 117B-2, MBB-BK 117C-1, MBB-BK 117C-2, MBB-BK 
117C-2e, BO-105A, BO-105C, BO-105D, BO105S, BO-105LS A-3 helicopters.
    EASA advises of several reports of a lower clamp found missing from 
the bellows and damaging the swashplate bearing ring before becoming 
detached. EASA states an investigation showed that over-torqueing can 
damage the clamp, which may have caused the clamp to become loose and 
detach. According to EASA, this condition, if not detected and 
corrected, could lead to loss of a swashplate clamp, resulting in loss 
of helicopter control. A detached clamp could damage the swashplate and 
pitch link or strike the tail rotor. EASA states that its AD is 
considered interim action and a further AD to implement a terminating 
action will follow.

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 
its AD. We are proposing this AD because we evaluated all known 
relevant information and determined that an unsafe condition is likely 
to exist or develop on other products of the same type design.

Related Service Information Under 1 CFR Part 51

    We reviewed Airbus Helicopters Alert Service Bulletin (ASB) BO105-
40A-107 for Model BO105 C-series, D-series and S-series helicopters; 
ASB BO105 LS-40A-12 for Model BO-105LS A-3 helicopters; ASB MBB-BK117-
40A-115 for Model MBB-BK 117A-1, MBB-BK 117A-3, MBB-BK 117A-4, MBB-BK 
117B-1, MBB-BK 117B-2, and MBB-BK 117C-1 helicopters; and ASB MBB-BK117 
C-2-62A-007 for Model MBB-BK 117C-2 and MBB-BK 117C-2e helicopters. 
These ASBs are all Revision 4 and all dated May 23, 2016. We also

[[Page 17511]]

reviewed Airbus Helicopters ASB MBB-BK117 D-2-62A-003, Revision 2, 
dated May 23, 2016, for Model MBB-BK117 D-2 and MBB-BK117 D-2m 
helicopters. This service information specifies removing the bellows 
and repetitively inspecting the swashplate.
    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.

Proposed AD Requirements

    This proposed AD would require a one-time inspection within 50 
hours time-in-service (TIS) and repetitive inspections every 100 hours 
TIS and every 400 hours TIS, by following the instructions in the 
manufacturer's service bulletin. This proposed AD would also prohibit 
installing on any helicopter bellows P/N 105-10113.05, P/N 4619305044, 
and P/N 4638305043 and any gearbox that has these bellows installed.

Differences Between This Proposed AD and the EASA AD

    The EASA AD requires compliance within different time intervals for 
some actions than what this proposed AD would require. The EASA AD 
allows a non-cumulative tolerance of 10 percent that may be applied to 
the compliance times, and this proposed AD would not. The EASA AD 
allows replacing the bellows clamps with cable ties before removing the 
bellows, and this proposed AD would not. This proposed AD would apply 
to Model MBB-BK 117D-2 helicopters while the EASA AD does not. The EASA 
AD applies to Model BO-105D helicopters, while this proposed AD would 
not.

Interim Action

    We consider this proposed 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.

Costs of Compliance

    We estimate that this proposed AD would affect 286 helicopters of 
U.S. Registry and that labor costs would average $85 per work hour. 
Based on these estimates, we expect the following costs:
     Removing and inspecting the swashplate assembly would 
require 3 work-hours. No parts would be needed for a cost of $255 per 
helicopter and $72,930 for the U.S. fleet per inspection cycle.
     Repairing a scratched support tube would require 3 work-
hours. No parts would be needed for a cost of $255 per helicopter.
     Replacing a corroded or damaged clamp would require 2 
work-hours. Parts would cost $8 for a cost of $178 per helicopter.
     Replacing corroded ball bearings would require 4 work-
hours. Parts would cost $3,000 for a cost of $3,340 per helicopter.
     Removing foreign objects from the outer deflection ring 
would require 2 work-hours. No parts would be needed for a cost of $170 
per helicopter.

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):

Airbus Helicopters Deutschland GmbH: Docket No. FAA-2016-9395; 
Product Identifier 2016-SW-027-AD.

(a) Applicability

    This AD applies to Airbus Helicopters Deutschland GmbH Model BO-
105A, BO-105C, BO-105S, BO105LS A-3, MBB-BK 117A-1, MBB-BK 117A-3, 
MBB-BK 117A-4, MBB-BK 117B-1, MBB-BK 117B-2, MBB-BK 117C-1, MBB-BK 
117C-2, and MBB-BK 117D-2 helicopters, certificated in any category.

    Note 1 to paragraph (a) of this AD:  Helicopters with an MBB-BK 
117C-2e designation are Model MBB-BK 117C-2 helicopters.

(b) Unsafe Condition

    This AD defines the unsafe condition as a loose bellows clamp. 
This condition can cause loss of the bellows, contact of the bellows 
with the main rotor blades, main rotor mast, and tail rotor, and 
subsequent loss of helicopter control.

(c) Comments Due Date

    We must receive comments by June 19, 2018.

(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 50 hours time-in-service (TIS):
    (i) Remove the swashplate bellows (bellows) part number (P/N) 
105-10113.05, P/N 4638305043, P/N 4619305044, or B623M20X2240 from 
the swashplate.
    (ii) Inspect the swashplate by following the Accomplishment 
Instructions, paragraph 3.B.1.(h) through 3.B.1.(k) of Airbus 
Helicopters Alert Service Bulletin (ASB)

[[Page 17512]]

BO105-40A-107, Revision 4, dated May 23, 2016 (ASB BO105-40A-107); 
ASB BO105 LS 40A-12, Revision 4, dated May 23, 2016 (ASB BO105 LS 
40A-12); ASB MBB-BK117-40A-115, Revision 4, dated May 23, 2016 (ASB 
MBB-BK117-40A-115); or ASB MBB-BK117 C-2-62A-007, Revision 4, dated 
May 23, 2016 (ASB MBB-BK117 C-2-62A-007); or paragraph 3.B.1.5 
through 3.B.1.8 of Airbus Helicopters ASB MBB-BK117 D-2-62A-003, 
Revision 2, dated May 23, 2016 (ASB MBB-BK117 D-2-62A-003); 
whichever is applicable to your helicopter. If there is corrosion on 
a ball bearing, you are not required to contact Airbus Helicopters 
customer support; instead, before further flight, replace the ball 
bearing.
    (2) Within 100 hours TIS after complying with the actions in 
paragraph (1) of this AD, and thereafter at intervals not to exceed 
100 hours TIS, inspect the swashplate by following the 
Accomplishment Instructions, paragraph 3.B.2 of ASB BO105-40A-107, 
ASB BO105 LS 40A-12, ASB MBB-BK117-40A-115, ASB MBB-BK117 C-2-62A-
007, or ASB MBB-BK117 D-2-62A-003, except you are not required to 
contact Airbus Helicopters customer support. If there is corrosion 
on a ball bearing, before further flight, replace the ball bearing.
    (3) Within 400 hours TIS after complying with the actions in 
paragraph (1) of this AD, and thereafter at intervals not to exceed 
400 hours TIS, inspect the swashplate by following the 
Accomplishment Instructions, paragraph 3.B.3 of ASB BO105-40A-107, 
ASB BO105 LS 40A-12, ASB MBB-BK117-40A-115, ASB MBB-BK117 C-2-62A-
007, or ASB MBB-BK117 D-2-62A-003.
    (4) Do not install a bellows P/N 105-10113.05, P/N 4619305044, 
or P/N 4638305043 or a gearbox with a bellows P/N 105-10113.05, P/N 
4619305044, or P/N 4638305043 on any helicopter.

(f) Alternative Methods of Compliance (AMOCs)

    (1) The Manager, Safety Management Section, Rotorcraft Standards 
Branch, 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 [email protected].
    (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. 2016-0142, dated July 19, 2016. You may view 
the EASA AD on the internet at https://www.regulations.gov in the AD 
Docket.

 (h) Subject

    Joint Aircraft Service Component (JASC) Code: 6200, Main Rotor 
System.

    Issued in Fort Worth, Texas, on April 11, 2018.
Lance T. Gant,
Director, Compliance & Airworthiness Division, Aircraft Certification 
Service.
[FR Doc. 2018-08097 Filed 4-19-18; 8:45 am]
 BILLING CODE 4910-13-P
This site is protected by reCAPTCHA and the Google Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply.