Airworthiness Directives; Agusta S.p.A. Helicopters, 23791-23794 [2018-10922]

Download as PDF Federal Register / Vol. 83, No. 100 / Wednesday, May 23, 2018 / Rules and Regulations of the aileron control rod body. As a result, aileron control rod assemblies, P/N 826998– 3, which contain the discrepant part, do not provide adequate load carrying capabilities. We are issuing this AD to address failure of the aileron control rod assembly, or loss or failure of the #10 (0.190-inch diameter) screw holding the left (or right) aileron control rod assembly together, which will result in loss of aileron authority, and could result in the jamming of both left and right ailerons, and loss of control of the airplane. (f) Compliance Comply with this AD within the compliance times specified, unless already done. (l) Related Information (g) Inspection Within 3 days after the effective date of this AD, perform a borescope inspection of the aileron control rod assembly, P/N 826998–3, to determine if threads exist on the aileron control rod body, P/N 826999–3, in accordance with Lockheed Martin Aeronautics Company Aircraft Maintenance Bulletin M0017R2, Revision 2, dated May 10, 2018. If the inspection indicates missing threads on the aileron control rod body, before further flight, replace the aileron control rod assembly with a serviceable part. A serviceable aileron control rod assembly is one that has been inspected in accordance with the requirements of this paragraph and found to have internal threads on the aileron control rod body. Note 2 to paragraph (g) of this AD: Guidance on replacing the aileron control rod assembly can be found in Lockheed Martin Aircraft Maintenance Manual Sections 27–2– 2 AILERON PRIMARY CONTROL CABLES, Maintenance Practices, Rigging of Aileron Primary Control Cable System; 27–2–3 AILERON PUSH–PULL TUBES, BRACKETS AND BELLCRANKS, Maintenance Practices, Aileron Push-Pull Tubes, Brackets and Bellcranks, Remove/Replace/Adjust/Rig; and 27–2–4 AILERON, Maintenance Practices, Removal/Installation/Adjustment/ Lubrication aileron. (h) Parts Installation Limitation As of the effective date of this AD, no person may install an aileron control rod assembly, P/N 826998–3, on any airplane, unless the aileron control rod assembly is serviceable as defined in paragraph (g) of this AD. daltland on DSKBBV9HB2PROD with RULES (i) Reporting Provisions Although Lockheed Martin Aeronautics Company Aircraft Maintenance Bulletin M0017R2, Revision 2, dated May 10, 2018, recommends that inspection reports be submitted to Lockheed, this AD does not require that action. (j) Special Flight Permit Special flight permits, as described in Section 21.197 and Section 21.199 of the Federal Aviation Regulations (14 CFR 21.197 and 21.199), are not allowed. (k) Alternative Methods of Compliance (AMOCs) (1) The Manager, Atlanta ACO Branch, FAA, has the authority to approve AMOCs VerDate Sep<11>2014 16:18 May 22, 2018 Jkt 244001 for this AD, if requested using the procedures found in 14 CFR 39.19. In accordance with 14 CFR 39.19, send your request to your principal inspector or local Flight Standards District Office, as appropriate. If sending information directly to the manager of the certification office, send it to the attention of the person identified in paragraph (l) of this AD. (2) Before using any approved AMOC, notify your appropriate principal inspector, or lacking a principal inspector, the manager of the local flight standards district office/ certificate holding district office. For more information about this AD, contact Hector Hernandez, Aerospace Engineer, Systems and Equipment Section, FAA, Atlanta ACO Branch, 1701 Columbia Avenue, College Park, GA 30337; phone: 404–474–5587; fax: 404–474–5606; email: Hector.Hernandez@faa.gov. (m) Material Incorporated by Reference (1) The Director of the Federal Register approved the incorporation by reference (IBR) of the service information listed in this paragraph under 5 U.S.C. 552(a) and 1 CFR part 51. (2) You must use this service information as applicable to do the actions required by this AD, unless the AD specifies otherwise. (i) Lockheed Martin Aeronautics Company Aircraft Maintenance Bulletin M0017R2, Revision 2, dated May 10, 2018 (only the first page contains the date). (ii) Reserved. (3) For service information identified in this AD, contact Lockheed Martin Corporation/Lockheed Martin Aeronautics Company, Customer Support Center, Dept. 3E1M, Zone 0591, 86 S Cobb Drive, Marietta, GA 30063; telephone 770–494–9131; email electra.support@lmco.com; internet https:// www.lockheedmartin.com/en-us/who-we-are/ business-areas/aeronautics/mmro/customersupport-center.html. (4) You may view this service information at the FAA, Transport Standards Branch, 2200 South 216th St., Des Moines, WA. For information on the availability of this material at the FAA, call 206–231–3195. (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 Des Moines, Washington, on May 17, 2018. Jeffrey E. Duven, Director, System Oversight Division, Aircraft Certification Service. [FR Doc. 2018–11133 Filed 5–22–18; 8:45 am] BILLING CODE 4910–13–P PO 00000 Frm 00017 Fmt 4700 Sfmt 4700 23791 DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION Federal Aviation Administration 14 CFR Part 39 [Docket No. FAA–2018–0238; Product Identifier 2018–SW–018–AD; Amendment 39–19265; AD 2018–06–51] RIN 2120–AA64 Airworthiness Directives; Agusta S.p.A. Helicopters Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), DOT. ACTION: Final rule; request for comments. AGENCY: We are publishing a new airworthiness directive (AD) for Agusta S.p.A. Model A109A, A109A II, A109C, A109E, A109K2, A109S, A119, AW109SP, and AW119 MKII helicopters. This AD requires removing a certain swashplate support (support) from service. This AD is prompted by an error in a parts catalog incorrectly identifying the support as approved for installation on Model AW109SP helicopters. We are issuing this AD to address the unsafe condition on these products. SUMMARY: This AD becomes effective June 7, 2018 to all persons except those persons to whom it was made immediately effective by Emergency AD 2018–06–51, issued on March 19, 2018, which contains the requirements of this AD. We must receive comments on this AD by July 23, 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. DATES: 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–2018– 0238; 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 AD, the E:\FR\FM\23MYR1.SGM 23MYR1 23792 Federal Register / Vol. 83, No. 100 / Wednesday, May 23, 2018 / Rules and Regulations 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 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 daltland on DSKBBV9HB2PROD with RULES 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 On March 19, 2018, we issued Emergency AD 2018–06–51 to address an unsafe condition on Agusta S.p.A. Model A109A, A109A II, A109C, A109E, A109K2, A109S, A119, AW109SP, and AW119 MKII helicopters VerDate Sep<11>2014 16:18 May 22, 2018 Jkt 244001 with a support part number (P/N) 109– 0110–05–101 installed. Emergency AD 2018–06–51 was sent previously to all known U.S. owners and operators of these helicopters. Emergency AD 2018– 06–51 requires removing the supports from service and re-identifying spherical sleeve assembly (sleeve) P/N 109–0134–02–103. Emergency AD 2018–06–51 was prompted by an error in a parts catalog that incorrectly identifies support P/N 109–0110–05–101 as approved for installation on Model AW109SP helicopters. Support P/N 109–0110–05– 101 is made of aluminum alloy and is approved for installation on Model A109A, A109A II, A109C, A109E, A109K2, A109S, A119, and AW119 MKII helicopters, but is not approved for installation on Model AW109SP helicopters. The approved support for Model AW109SP helicopters is made of steel. This condition, if not corrected, could result in failure of the support and subsequent loss of control of the helicopter. EASA, which is the Technical Agent for the Member States of the European Union, issued AD No. No. 2018–0053– E, dated March 8, 2018, to correct an unsafe condition for Leonardo S.p.A. Helicopters (previously Agusta S.p.A.) Model AW109SP helicopters. The EASA AD advises that support P/N 109–0110– 05–101, which is not eligible for installation on Model AW109SP helicopters, was erroneously listed in the Model AW109SP parts catalog. EASA states that this may have led to inadvertent installations of the support in service on a Model AW109SP helicopter. The EASA AD requires replacing the support and re-identifying the P/N on the identification plate of the sleeve if the P/N is not P/N 109–0134– 02–105. Sleeve P/N 109–0134–02–105 is composed of the steel support. The EASA AD also prohibits installing the support on any Model AW109SP helicopter. EASA states that its AD actions are intended to prevent failure of the support, which could result in loss of control of the helicopter. The FAA is in the process of updating Agusta S.p.A.’s name change to Leonardo S.p.A. on its FAA type certificate. Because this name change is not yet effective, this AD specifies Agusta S.p.A. as the type certificate holder. 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 PO 00000 Frm 00018 Fmt 4700 Sfmt 4700 of the unsafe condition described in the EASA AD. We are issuing this AD because we evaluated all the 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 Emergency Alert Service Bulletin No. 109SP–119, dated March 7, 2018. This service information specifies replacing support P/N 109–0110–05–101 with support P/N 109–0134–29–101. This service information also specifies inspecting the sleeve identification plate and depending on the findings, replacing and re-identifying the identification plate. AD Requirements This AD requires removing support P/ N 109–0110–05–101 from service that is or has been installed on a Model AW109SP helicopter. If sleeve P/N 109– 0134–02–103 is installed, this AD requires re-identifying the P/N of the sleeve on Model AW109SP helicopters. This AD also prohibits installing support P/N 109–0110–05–101 on any Model AW109SP helicopter. Differences Between This AD and the EASA AD This AD requires removing a support installed on a Model AW109SP helicopter from service before further flight, while the compliance time in the EASA AD depends on the flight hours of the support. This AD applies to Model A109A, A109A II, A109C, A109E, A109K2, A109S, A119, and AW119 MKII helicopters and requires removing the support installed on these models from service if previously installed on a Model AW109SP helicopter. The EASA AD does not apply to these models or contain this requirement for supports previously installed on a Model AW109SP helicopter. Costs of Compliance We estimate that this AD affects 266 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. Replacing a support takes about 10 work-hours and parts cost about $6,288 for an estimated cost of $7,138 per helicopter. Re-identifying a sleeve identification plate takes about 0.5 work-hour and the parts cost is minimal for an estimated cost of $43 per helicopter. E:\FR\FM\23MYR1.SGM 23MYR1 Federal Register / Vol. 83, No. 100 / Wednesday, May 23, 2018 / Rules and Regulations 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 Helicopters. Accordingly, we have included all costs in our cost estimate. FAA’s Justification and Determination of the Effective Date An unsafe condition exists that required the immediate adoption of Emergency AD 2018–06–51, issued on March 19, 2018, to all known U.S. owners and operators of these helicopters. The FAA found that the risk to the flying public justified waiving notice and comment prior to adoption of this rule because the required corrective actions must be accomplished before further flight or within 5 hours time-inservice, depending on the model helicopter. These conditions still exist and the AD is hereby published in the Federal Register as an amendment to section 39.13 of the Federal Aviation Regulations (14 CFR 39.13) to make it effective to all persons. Therefore, we find good cause that notice and opportunity for prior public comment are impracticable. In addition, for the reason stated above, we find that good cause exists for making this amendment effective in less than 30 days. daltland on DSKBBV9HB2PROD with RULES 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 VerDate Sep<11>2014 16:18 May 22, 2018 Jkt 244001 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; 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): ■ 2018–06–51 Agusta S.p.A.: Amendment 39– 19265; Docket No. FAA–2018–0238; Product Identifier 2018–SW–018–AD. (a) Applicability This AD applies to Model A109A, A109A II, A109C, A109E, A109K2, A109S, A119, AW109SP, and AW119 MKII helicopters, certificated in any category, with a swashplate support (support) part number (P/ N) 109–0110–05–101 installed. (b) Unsafe Condition This AD defines the unsafe condition as installation of a support that does not meet type design. This condition could result in failure of a support and subsequent loss of control of the helicopter. (c) Effective Date This AD becomes effective June 7, 2018 to all persons except those persons to whom it was made immediately effective by Emergency AD 2018–06–51, issued on March 19, 2018, which contains the requirements of this AD. (d) Compliance You are responsible for performing each action required by this AD within the PO 00000 Frm 00019 Fmt 4700 Sfmt 4700 23793 specified compliance time unless it has already been accomplished prior to that time. (e) Required Actions (1) For Model AW109SP helicopters, before further flight: (i) Remove the support from service. (ii) If spherical sleeve assembly (sleeve) P/ N 109–0134–02–103 is installed, re-identify the sleeve by permanently changing the P/N on the identification plate to P/N 109–0134– 02–105. (2) For Model A109A, A109A II, A109C, A109E, A109K2, A109S, A119, and AW119 MKII helicopters, within 5 hours time-inservice, remove support P/N 109–0110–05– 101 from service if it has ever been installed on a Model AW109SP helicopter. (3) After the effective date of this AD, do not install support P/N 109–0110–05–101 on any Model AW109SP 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 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 (1) Leonardo Helicopters Emergency Alert Service Bulletin No. 109SP–119, dated March 7, 2018, 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. 2018–0053–E, dated March 8, 2018. You may view the EASA AD on the internet at https://www.regulations.gov by searching for and locating it in Docket No. FAA–2018– 0238. (h) Subject Joint Aircraft Service Component (JASC) Code: 6230, Main Rotor Mast/Swashplate. E:\FR\FM\23MYR1.SGM 23MYR1 23794 Federal Register / Vol. 83, No. 100 / Wednesday, May 23, 2018 / Rules and Regulations Issued in Fort Worth, Texas, on May 11, 2018. Scott A. Horn, Deputy Director for Regulatory Operations, Compliance & Airworthiness Division, Aircraft Certification Service. [FR Doc. 2018–10922 Filed 5–22–18; 8:45 am] BILLING CODE 4910–13–P DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION Federal Aviation Administration 14 CFR Part 39 [Docket No. FAA–2018–0429; Product Identifier 2018–NE–13–AD; Amendment 39– 19287; AD 2018–09–51] RIN 2120–AA64 Airworthiness Directives; CFM International S.A. Turbofan Engines Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), DOT. ACTION: Final rule; request for comments. AGENCY: We are adopting a new airworthiness directive (AD) for CFM International, S.A., (CFM) CFM56–7B model engines. This emergency AD was sent previously to all known U.S. owners and operators of CFM CFM56– 7B model engines. This AD requires a one-time ultrasonic inspection (USI) of the concave and convex sides of the fan blade dovetail. This AD was prompted by a recent engine failure due to a fractured fan blade, which resulted in the engine inlet cowl disintegrating and debris penetrating the fuselage, causing a loss of pressurization, and prompting an emergency descent. We are issuing this AD to address the unsafe condition on these products. DATES: This AD is effective June 7, 2018 to all persons except those persons to whom it was made immediately effective by Emergency AD 2018–09–51, issued on April 20, 2018, which contained the requirements of this amendment. The Director of the Federal Register approved the incorporation by reference of a certain other publication listed in this AD as of May 14, 2018 (83 FR 19176, May 2, 2018). We must receive comments on this AD by July 9, 2018. ADDRESSES: You may send comments, using the procedures found in 14 CFR 11.43 and 11.45, by any of the following methods: • Federal eRulemaking Portal: Go to https://www.regulations.gov. Follow the instructions for submitting comments. • Fax: 202–493–2251. daltland on DSKBBV9HB2PROD with RULES SUMMARY: VerDate Sep<11>2014 16:18 May 22, 2018 Jkt 244001 • Mail: U.S. Department of Transportation, Docket Operations, M– 30, West Building Ground Floor, Room W12–140, 1200 New Jersey Avenue SE, Washington, DC 20590. • Hand Delivery: U.S. Department of Transportation, Docket Operations, M– 30, West Building Ground Floor, Room W12–140, 1200 New Jersey Avenue SE, Washington, DC 20590, between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m., Monday through Friday, except Federal holidays. For service information identified in this AD, contact CFM International Inc., Aviation Operations Center, 1 Neumann Way, M/D Room 285, Cincinnati, OH 45125; phone: 877–432–3272; fax: 877– 432–3329; email: aviation.fleetsupport@ ge.com. You may view this service information at the FAA, Engine and Propeller Standards Branch, 1200 District Avenue, Burlington, MA. For information on the availability of this material at the FAA, call 781–238–7759. It is also available on the internet at https://www.regulations.gov by searching for and locating Docket No. FAA–2018– 0429. 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–2018– 0429; 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 final rule, the regulatory evaluation, any comments received, and other information. The street address for Docket Operations (phone: 800–647– 5527) is listed above. Comments will be available in the AD docket shortly after receipt. FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Christopher McGuire, Aerospace Engineer, ECO Branch, FAA, 1200 District Avenue, Burlington, MA 01803; phone: 781–238–7120; fax: 781–238– 7199; Email: chris.mcguire@faa.gov. SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: Discussion On April 20, 2018, we issued Emergency AD 2018–09–51, which requires a one-time USI of the concave and convex sides of the fan blade dovetail. This emergency AD was sent previously to all known U.S. owners and operators of these CFM CFM56–7B model engines. This action was prompted by a recent engine failure due to a fractured fan blade. There was one passenger fatality as a result of the event. This condition, if not addressed, could result in the engine inlet cowl disintegrating and debris penetrating the PO 00000 Frm 00020 Fmt 4700 Sfmt 4700 fuselage, causing a loss of pressurization, and prompting an emergency descent. Relevant Service Information Under 1 CFR Part 51 We reviewed CFM Service Bulletin (SB) CFM56–7B S/B 72–1033, dated April 20, 2018. The service information describes procedures for performing a USI for cracks of the fan blade dovetail and removal of cracked fan blades from service. 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. FAA’s Determination We are issuing this AD because we evaluated all the relevant information and determined the unsafe condition described previously is likely to exist or develop in other products of the same type design. AD Requirements This AD requires a one-time USI of the concave and convex sides of the fan blade dovetail. Differences Between This AD and the Service Information CFM SB CFM56–7B S/B 72–1033, dated April 20, 2018, provides actions for engines with fewer than 30,000 flight cycles, but this AD does not affect those engines. The service information also specifies repetitive inspections, but this AD does not require that the inspection be repeated. We published AD 2018– 09–10 (83 FR 19176, May 2, 2018), which addresses those differences. FAA’s Justification and Determination of the Effective Date An unsafe condition exists that requires the immediate adoption of Emergency AD 2018–09–51, issued on April 20, 2018, to all known U.S. owners and operators of these engines. The FAA has found that the risk to the flying public justifies waiving notice and comment prior to adoption of this rule because the USI must be performed within 20 days. These conditions still exist and the AD is hereby published in the Federal Register as an amendment to section 39.13 of the Federal Aviation Regulations (14 CFR 39.13) to make it effective to all persons. Therefore, we find good cause that notice and opportunity for prior public comment are impracticable. In addition, for the reason stated above, we find that good cause exists for making this amendment effective in less than 30 days. E:\FR\FM\23MYR1.SGM 23MYR1

Agencies

[Federal Register Volume 83, Number 100 (Wednesday, May 23, 2018)]
[Rules and Regulations]
[Pages 23791-23794]
From the Federal Register Online via the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]
[FR Doc No: 2018-10922]


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

DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION

Federal Aviation Administration

14 CFR Part 39

[Docket No. FAA-2018-0238; Product Identifier 2018-SW-018-AD; Amendment 
39-19265; AD 2018-06-51]
RIN 2120-AA64


Airworthiness Directives; Agusta S.p.A. Helicopters

AGENCY: Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), DOT.

ACTION: Final rule; request for comments.

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

SUMMARY: We are publishing a new airworthiness directive (AD) for 
Agusta S.p.A. Model A109A, A109A II, A109C, A109E, A109K2, A109S, A119, 
AW109SP, and AW119 MKII helicopters. This AD requires removing a 
certain swashplate support (support) from service. This AD is prompted 
by an error in a parts catalog incorrectly identifying the support as 
approved for installation on Model AW109SP helicopters. We are issuing 
this AD to address the unsafe condition on these products.

DATES: This AD becomes effective June 7, 2018 to all persons except 
those persons to whom it was made immediately effective by Emergency AD 
2018-06-51, issued on March 19, 2018, which contains the requirements 
of this AD.
    We must receive comments on this AD by July 23, 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-2018-
0238; 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 AD, the

[[Page 23792]]

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 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 [email protected].

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

    On March 19, 2018, we issued Emergency AD 2018-06-51 to address an 
unsafe condition on Agusta S.p.A. Model A109A, A109A II, A109C, A109E, 
A109K2, A109S, A119, AW109SP, and AW119 MKII helicopters with a support 
part number (P/N) 109-0110-05-101 installed. Emergency AD 2018-06-51 
was sent previously to all known U.S. owners and operators of these 
helicopters. Emergency AD 2018-06-51 requires removing the supports 
from service and re-identifying spherical sleeve assembly (sleeve) P/N 
109-0134-02-103.
    Emergency AD 2018-06-51 was prompted by an error in a parts catalog 
that incorrectly identifies support P/N 109-0110-05-101 as approved for 
installation on Model AW109SP helicopters. Support P/N 109-0110-05-101 
is made of aluminum alloy and is approved for installation on Model 
A109A, A109A II, A109C, A109E, A109K2, A109S, A119, and AW119 MKII 
helicopters, but is not approved for installation on Model AW109SP 
helicopters. The approved support for Model AW109SP helicopters is made 
of steel. This condition, if not corrected, could result in failure of 
the support and subsequent loss of control of the helicopter.
    EASA, which is the Technical Agent for the Member States of the 
European Union, issued AD No. No. 2018-0053-E, dated March 8, 2018, to 
correct an unsafe condition for Leonardo S.p.A. Helicopters (previously 
Agusta S.p.A.) Model AW109SP helicopters. The EASA AD advises that 
support P/N 109-0110-05-101, which is not eligible for installation on 
Model AW109SP helicopters, was erroneously listed in the Model AW109SP 
parts catalog. EASA states that this may have led to inadvertent 
installations of the support in service on a Model AW109SP helicopter. 
The EASA AD requires replacing the support and re-identifying the P/N 
on the identification plate of the sleeve if the P/N is not P/N 109-
0134-02-105. Sleeve P/N 109-0134-02-105 is composed of the steel 
support. The EASA AD also prohibits installing the support on any Model 
AW109SP helicopter. EASA states that its AD actions are intended to 
prevent failure of the support, which could result in loss of control 
of the helicopter.
    The FAA is in the process of updating Agusta S.p.A.'s name change 
to Leonardo S.p.A. on its FAA type certificate. Because this name 
change is not yet effective, this AD specifies Agusta S.p.A. as the 
type certificate holder.

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 the 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 Emergency Alert Service Bulletin 
No. 109SP-119, dated March 7, 2018. This service information specifies 
replacing support P/N 109-0110-05-101 with support P/N 109-0134-29-101. 
This service information also specifies inspecting the sleeve 
identification plate and depending on the findings, replacing and re-
identifying the identification plate.

AD Requirements

    This AD requires removing support P/N 109-0110-05-101 from service 
that is or has been installed on a Model AW109SP helicopter. If sleeve 
P/N 109-0134-02-103 is installed, this AD requires re-identifying the 
P/N of the sleeve on Model AW109SP helicopters. This AD also prohibits 
installing support P/N 109-0110-05-101 on any Model AW109SP helicopter.

Differences Between This AD and the EASA AD

    This AD requires removing a support installed on a Model AW109SP 
helicopter from service before further flight, while the compliance 
time in the EASA AD depends on the flight hours of the support. This AD 
applies to Model A109A, A109A II, A109C, A109E, A109K2, A109S, A119, 
and AW119 MKII helicopters and requires removing the support installed 
on these models from service if previously installed on a Model AW109SP 
helicopter. The EASA AD does not apply to these models or contain this 
requirement for supports previously installed on a Model AW109SP 
helicopter.

Costs of Compliance

    We estimate that this AD affects 266 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.
    Replacing a support takes about 10 work-hours and parts cost about 
$6,288 for an estimated cost of $7,138 per helicopter. Re-identifying a 
sleeve identification plate takes about 0.5 work-hour and the parts 
cost is minimal for an estimated cost of $43 per helicopter.

[[Page 23793]]

    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 Helicopters. Accordingly, we have included all 
costs in our cost estimate.

FAA's Justification and Determination of the Effective Date

    An unsafe condition exists that required the immediate adoption of 
Emergency AD 2018-06-51, issued on March 19, 2018, to all known U.S. 
owners and operators of these helicopters. The FAA found that the risk 
to the flying public justified waiving notice and comment prior to 
adoption of this rule because the required corrective actions must be 
accomplished before further flight or within 5 hours time-in-service, 
depending on the model helicopter. These conditions still exist and the 
AD is hereby published in the Federal Register as an amendment to 
section 39.13 of the Federal Aviation Regulations (14 CFR 39.13) to 
make it effective to all persons. Therefore, we find good cause that 
notice and opportunity for prior public comment are impracticable. In 
addition, for the reason stated above, we find 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;
    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 adding the following new airworthiness 
directive (AD):

2018-06-51 Agusta S.p.A.: Amendment 39-19265; Docket No. FAA-2018-
0238; Product Identifier 2018-SW-018-AD.

(a) Applicability

    This AD applies to Model A109A, A109A II, A109C, A109E, A109K2, 
A109S, A119, AW109SP, and AW119 MKII helicopters, certificated in 
any category, with a swashplate support (support) part number (P/N) 
109-0110-05-101 installed.

(b) Unsafe Condition

    This AD defines the unsafe condition as installation of a 
support that does not meet type design. This condition could result 
in failure of a support and subsequent loss of control of the 
helicopter.

(c) Effective Date

    This AD becomes effective June 7, 2018 to all persons except 
those persons to whom it was made immediately effective by Emergency 
AD 2018-06-51, issued on March 19, 2018, which contains the 
requirements of this AD.

(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) For Model AW109SP helicopters, before further flight:
    (i) Remove the support from service.
    (ii) If spherical sleeve assembly (sleeve) P/N 109-0134-02-103 
is installed, re-identify the sleeve by permanently changing the P/N 
on the identification plate to P/N 109-0134-02-105.
    (2) For Model A109A, A109A II, A109C, A109E, A109K2, A109S, 
A119, and AW119 MKII helicopters, within 5 hours time-in-service, 
remove support P/N 109-0110-05-101 from service if it has ever been 
installed on a Model AW109SP helicopter.
    (3) After the effective date of this AD, do not install support 
P/N 109-0110-05-101 on any Model AW109SP 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

    (1) Leonardo Helicopters Emergency Alert Service Bulletin No. 
109SP-119, dated March 7, 2018, 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. 2018-0053-E, dated March 8, 2018. You 
may view the EASA AD on the internet at https://www.regulations.gov 
by searching for and locating it in Docket No. FAA-2018-0238.

(h) Subject

    Joint Aircraft Service Component (JASC) Code: 6230, Main Rotor 
Mast/Swashplate.


[[Page 23794]]


    Issued in Fort Worth, Texas, on May 11, 2018.
Scott A. Horn,
Deputy Director for Regulatory Operations, Compliance & Airworthiness 
Division, Aircraft Certification Service.
[FR Doc. 2018-10922 Filed 5-22-18; 8:45 am]
 BILLING CODE 4910-13-P
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