Airworthiness Directives; Glasgflugel Gliders, 53573-53575 [2018-23107]

Download as PDF Federal Register / Vol. 83, No. 206 / Wednesday, October 24, 2018 / Rules and Regulations (7) 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 October 12, 2018. Michael Kaszycki, Acting Director, System Oversight Division, Aircraft Certification Service. [FR Doc. 2018–23036 Filed 10–23–18; 8:45 am] BILLING CODE 4910–13–P DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION Federal Aviation Administration 14 CFR Part 39 [Docket No. FAA–2018–0891; Product Identifier 2018–CE–038–AD; Amendment 39–19462; AD 2018–21–04] RIN 2120–AA64 Airworthiness Directives; Glasgflugel Gliders Examining the AD Docket Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), DOT. ACTION: Final rule; request for comments. AGENCY: We are adopting a new airworthiness directive (AD) for Glasflugel Models Club Libelle 205, H 301 ‘‘Libelle,’’ H 301B ‘‘Libelle,’’ Kestrel, Mosquito, Standard ‘‘Libelle,’’ and Standard Libelle-201B gliders. This AD results from mandatory continuing airworthiness information (MCAI) issued by the aviation authority of another country to identify and correct an unsafe condition on an aviation product. The MCAI describes the unsafe condition as jamming between the double two-ring end of the towing cable and the deflector angles of the center of gravity (C.G.) release mechanism. We are issuing this AD to require actions to address the unsafe condition on these products. SUMMARY: This AD is effective November 13, 2018. The Director of the Federal Register approved the incorporation by reference of a certain publication listed in the AD as of November 13, 2018. We must receive comments on this AD by December 10, 2018. ADDRESSES: You may send comments 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. amozie on DSK3GDR082PROD with RULES DATES: VerDate Sep<11>2014 16:10 Oct 23, 2018 Jkt 247001 • 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 Glasfaser FlugzeugService GmbH, Hansjorg Streifeneder, Hofener Weg 61, 72582 Grabenstetten, Germany; phone: +49 (0)7382/1032; fax: +49 (0)7382/1629; email: info@ streifly.de; internet: https:// www.streifly.de/kontakt-e.htm. You may view this referenced service information at the FAA, Policy and Innovation, 901 Locust, Kansas City, Missouri 64106. For information on the availability of this material at the FAA, call (816) 329– 4148. It is also available on the internet at https://www.regulations.gov by searching for locating Docket No. FAA– 2018–0891. You may examine the AD docket on the internet at https:// www.regulations.gov by searching for and locating Docket No. FAA–2018– 0891; 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 regulatory 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 FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Jim Rutherford, Aerospace Engineer, FAA, Policy and Innovation Division, 901 Locust, Room 301, Kansas City, Missouri 64106; telephone: (816) 329– 4165; fax: (816) 329–4090; email: jim.rutherford@faa.gov. SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: Discussion The European Aviation Safety Agency (EASA), which is the Technical Agent for the Member States of the European Community, has issued AD No. 2018– 0143–E, dated July 6, 2018 (referred to after this as ‘‘the MCAI’’), to correct an unsafe condition for the specified products. The MCAI states: Jamming between the double two ring end of the towing cable and the deflector angles of the C.G. release mechanism was reported. Subsequent investigation identified incorrect PO 00000 Frm 00011 Fmt 4700 Sfmt 4700 53573 geometry of the deflector angles of the affected part as likely cause of the jamming. This condition, if not detected and corrected, could lead to failure to disconnect the towing cable, possibly resulting in reduced or loss of control of the sailplane. To address this potential unsafe condition, Glasfaser Flugzeug-Service GmbH issued the TN [Technical Note] to provide inspection instructions and corrective action. For the reasons described above, this [EASA] AD requires repetitive inspections of the affected part, and, depending on findings, accomplishment of applicable corrective action(s). This [EASA] AD also requires amendment of the sailplane Aircraft Flight Manual (AFM). You may examine the MCAI on the internet at https://www.regulations.gov by searching for and locating Docket No. FAA–2018–0891. Record of Ex Parte Communication In preparation of AD actions, such as notices of proposed rulemaking and immediately adopted final rules, the FAA obtains technical data and information on the operational and economic impact from design approval holders and aircraft operators. We discussed certain aspects of this AD by email with Glasfaser Flugzeug-Service GmbH. You may find a copy of each email contact in the rulemaking docket. For information on locating the docket, see ‘‘Examining the AD Docket.’’ Related Service Information Under 1 CFR Part 51 We reviewed Glasfaser-FlugzeugService GmbH Technical Note No. 5– 2018, dated June 25, 2018. The service information describes procedures for measuring the distance between the deflector-angles at the C.G. release and modifying the deflector-angles if necessary. 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 and Requirements of the AD This product has been approved by the aviation authority of another country, and is approved for operation in the United States. Pursuant to our bilateral agreement with this State of Design Authority, they have notified us of the unsafe condition described in the MCAI and service information referenced above. We are issuing this AD because we evaluated all information provided by the State of Design Authority and determined the unsafe condition exists and is likely to exist or develop on other products of the same type design. E:\FR\FM\24OCR1.SGM 24OCR1 53574 Federal Register / Vol. 83, No. 206 / Wednesday, October 24, 2018 / Rules and Regulations FAA’s Determination of the Effective Date An unsafe condition exists that requires the immediate adoption of this AD. The FAA has found that the risk to the flying public justifies waiving notice and comment prior to adoption of this rule because injury could occur to people on the ground if the towing cable breaks during a wench launch. As such, operators must take corrective action before the next launch of the glider. Therefore, 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 fewer than 30 days. amozie on DSK3GDR082PROD with RULES Comments Invited This AD is a final rule that involves requirements affecting flight safety, and we did not precede it by notice and opportunity for public comment. We invite you to send any written relevant data, views, or arguments about this AD. Send your comments to an address listed under the ADDRESSES section. Include ‘‘Docket No. FAA–2018–0891; Product Identifier 2018–CE–038–AD’’ at the beginning of your comments. We specifically invite comments on the overall regulatory, economic, environmental, and energy aspects of this AD. We will consider all comments received by the closing date and may amend this AD because of those comments. We will post all comments we receive, without change, to https:// www.regulations.gov, including any personal information you provide. We will also post a report summarizing each substantive verbal contact we receive about this AD. Costs of Compliance We estimate that this AD will affect 177 products of U.S. registry. We also estimate that it would take about 1 work-hour per product to comply with the inspection requirements of this AD. The average labor rate is $85 per workhour. Based on these figures, we estimate the cost of the AD on U.S. operators to be $15,045, or $85 per product. We estimate that any modification of the deflector-angles that may be necessary as a result of the inspection would take about 4 work-hours and require parts costing $100, for a cost of $440 per product. We have no way of determining the number of products that may need these actions. Authority for This Rulemaking Title 49 of the United States Code specifies the FAA’s authority to issue VerDate Sep<11>2014 16:10 Oct 23, 2018 Jkt 247001 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. This AD is issued in accordance with authority delegated by the Executive Director, Aircraft Certification Service, as authorized by FAA Order 8000.51C. In accordance with that order, issuance of ADs is normally a function of the Compliance and Airworthiness Division, but during this transition period, the Executive Director has delegated the authority to issue ADs applicable to small airplanes, gliders, balloons, airships, domestic business jet transport airplanes, and associated appliances to the Director of the Policy and Innovation Division. 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 above, I certify that this AD: (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, 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. List of Subjects in 14 CFR Part 39 Air transportation, Aircraft, Aviation safety, Incorporation by reference, Safety. PO 00000 Frm 00012 Fmt 4700 Sfmt 4700 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): ■ 2018–21–04 Glasflugel: Amendment 39– 19462; Docket No. FAA–2018–0891; Product Identifier 2018–CE–038–AD. (a) Effective Date This AD becomes effective November 13, 2018. (b) Affected ADs None. (c) Applicability This AD applies to Glasflugel Models Club Libelle 205, H 301 ‘‘Libelle,’’ H 301B ‘‘Libelle,’’ Kestrel, Mosquito, Standard ‘‘Libelle,’’ and Standard Libelle-201B gliders, certificated in any category, with a center of gravity (C.G.) tow release installed. (d) Subject Air Transport Association of America (ATA) Code 25: Equipment/Furnishing. (e) Reason This AD was prompted by mandatory continuing airworthiness information (MCAI) issued by the aviation authority of another country to identify and correct an unsafe condition on an aviation product. The MCAI describes the unsafe condition as jamming between the double two-ring end of the towing cable and the deflector angles of the C.G. release mechanism. We are issuing this AD to prevent failure of the towing cable to disconnect, which could result in reduced or loss of control of the glider or the cable breaking and causing injury to people on the ground. (f) Actions and Compliance Unless already done, do the following actions in paragraphs (f)(1) and (3) of this AD. (1) Before the next winch launch after November 13, 2018 (the effective date of this AD), inspect the distance between the deflector-angles by following paragraph 1 in the Actions section of Glasfaser-FlugzeugService GmbH Technical Note No. 5–2018, dated June 25, 2018. (2) If the distance is less than 36 mm during the inspection required in paragraph (f)(1) of this AD, before the next winch launch after November 13, 2018 (the effective date of this AD), do the corrective action in paragraph 2 in the Actions section of Glasfaser-Flugzeug-Service GmbH Technical Note No. 5–2018, dated June 25, 2018. E:\FR\FM\24OCR1.SGM 24OCR1 Federal Register / Vol. 83, No. 206 / Wednesday, October 24, 2018 / Rules and Regulations (3) Before the next winch launch after November 13, 2018 (the effective date of this AD), revise the flying operations section of the sailplane flight manual by inserting the text in paragraph (f)(3)(i) of this AD into the winch tow section. (i) Winch launching is permissible only with a connecting ring pair that conforms to aeronautical standard LN 65091. (ii) This action may be done by the owner/ operator (pilot) holding at least a private pilot certificate and must be entered into the aircraft records showing compliance with this AD by following 14 CFR 43.9 (a)(1) through (4) and 14 CFR 91.417(a)(2)(v). The record must be maintained as required by 14 CFR 91.417, 121.380, or 135.439. (g) Other FAA AD Provisions The following provisions also apply to this AD: (1) Alternative Methods of Compliance (AMOCs): The Manager, Small Airplane Standards Branch, FAA, has the authority to approve AMOCs for this AD, if requested using the procedures found in 14 CFR 39.19. Send information to ATTN: Jim Rutherford, Aerospace Engineer, FAA, Policy and Innovation Division, 901 Locust, Room 301, Kansas City, Missouri 64106; telephone: (816) 329–4165; fax: (816) 329–4090; email: jim.rutherford@faa.gov. Before using any approved AMOC on any glider to which the AMOC applies, notify your appropriate principal inspector (PI) in the FAA Flight Standards District Office (FSDO), or lacking a PI, your local FSDO. (2) Contacting the Manufacturer: For any requirement in this AD to obtain corrective actions from a manufacturer, the action must instead be accomplished using a method approved by the Manager, Small Airplane Standards Branch, FAA; or the European Aviation Safety Agency (EASA). amozie on DSK3GDR082PROD with RULES (h) Related Information Refer to MCAI EASA AD No. 2018–0143– E, dated July 6, 2018, for related information. You may examine the MCAI on the internet at https://www.regulations.gov by searching for and locating Docket No. FAA–2018–0891. (i) 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) Glasfaser-Flugzeug-Service GmbH Technical Note No. 5–2018, dated June 25, 2018. (ii) [Reserved] (3) For service information identified in this AD, contact Glasfaser Flugzeug-Service GmbH, Hansjorg Streifeneder, Hofener Weg 61, 72582 Grabenstetten, Germany; phone: +49 (0)7382/1032; fax: +49 (0)7382/1629; email: info@streifly.de; internet: https:// www.streifly.de/kontakt-e.htm. (4) You may view this service information at the FAA, Policy and Innovation, 901 Locust, Kansas City, Missouri 64106. For information on the availability of this material at the FAA, call (816) 329–4148. It VerDate Sep<11>2014 16:10 Oct 23, 2018 Jkt 247001 is also available on the internet at https:// www.regulations.gov by searching for locating Docket No. FAA–2018–0891. (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 Kansas City, Missouri, on October 12, 2018. Melvin J. Johnson, Aircraft Certification Service, Deputy Director, Policy and Innovation Division, AIR–601. 53575 DEPARTMENT OF THE TREASURY 31 CFR Part 33 DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH AND HUMAN SERVICES 45 CFR Part 155 [CMS–9936–NC] State Relief and Empowerment Waivers Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS), Department of Health and Human Services; Department of the Treasury. ACTION: Guidance. AGENCY: [FR Doc. 2018–23107 Filed 10–23–18; 8:45 am] DEPARTMENT OF ENERGY Federal Energy Regulatory Commission 18 CFR Part 4 Licenses, Permits, Exemptions, and Determination of Project Costs CFR Correction In Title 18 of the Code of Federal Regulations, Parts 1 to 399, revised as of April 1, 2018, on page 102, in § 4.39, the first sentence of paragraph (a) is removed. [FR Doc. 2018–23332 Filed 10–23–18; 8:45 am] BILLING CODE 1301–00–D DEPARTMENT OF THE INTERIOR Office of Surface Mining and Reclamation 30 CFR Part 779 Surface Mining Permit Applications CFR Correction In Title 30 of the Code of Federal Regulations, Part 700 to End, revised as of July 1, 2018, on page 229, the designation ‘‘§ 779.25 [Reserved]’’ is removed. [FR Doc. 2018–23315 Filed 10–23–18; 8:45 am] BILLING CODE 1301–00–D PO 00000 Frm 00013 Fmt 4700 This guidance relates to section 1332 of the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act (PPACA) and its implementing regulations. Section 1332 provides the Secretary of Health and Human Services and the Secretary of the Treasury (collectively, the Secretaries) with the discretion to approve a state’s proposal to waive specific provisions of the PPACA (a State Innovation Waiver, now also referred to as a State Relief and Empowerment Waiver), provided the section 1332 state plan meets certain requirements. The Department of Health and Human Services and the Department of the Treasury (collectively, the Departments) finalized implementing regulations on February 27, 2012. This updated guidance provides supplementary information about the requirements that must be met for the approval of a State Innovation Waiver, the Secretaries’ application review procedures, the calculation of pass-through funding, certain analytical requirements, and operational considerations. This guidance supersedes the guidance related to section 1332 of the PPACA that was previously published on December 16, 2015. Changes include increasing flexibility with respect to the manner in which a section 1332 state plan may meet section 1332 standards in order to be eligible to be approved by the Secretaries, clarifying the adjustments the Secretaries may make to maintain federal deficit neutrality, and allowing for states to use existing legislative authority to authorize section 1332 waivers in certain scenarios. The Departments are committed to empowering states to innovate in ways that will strengthen their health insurance markets, expand choices of coverage, target public resources to those most in need, and meet the unique circumstances of each state. This guidance aims to lower barriers to SUMMARY: BILLING CODE 4910–13–P Sfmt 4700 E:\FR\FM\24OCR1.SGM 24OCR1

Agencies

[Federal Register Volume 83, Number 206 (Wednesday, October 24, 2018)]
[Rules and Regulations]
[Pages 53573-53575]
From the Federal Register Online via the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]
[FR Doc No: 2018-23107]


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

DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION

Federal Aviation Administration

14 CFR Part 39

[Docket No. FAA-2018-0891; Product Identifier 2018-CE-038-AD; Amendment 
39-19462; AD 2018-21-04]
RIN 2120-AA64


Airworthiness Directives; Glasgflugel Gliders

AGENCY: Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), DOT.

ACTION: Final rule; request for comments.

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

SUMMARY: We are adopting a new airworthiness directive (AD) for 
Glasflugel Models Club Libelle 205, H 301 ``Libelle,'' H 301B 
``Libelle,'' Kestrel, Mosquito, Standard ``Libelle,'' and Standard 
Libelle-201B gliders. This AD results from mandatory continuing 
airworthiness information (MCAI) issued by the aviation authority of 
another country to identify and correct an unsafe condition on an 
aviation product. The MCAI describes the unsafe condition as jamming 
between the double two-ring end of the towing cable and the deflector 
angles of the center of gravity (C.G.) release mechanism. We are 
issuing this AD to require actions to address the unsafe condition on 
these products.

DATES: This AD is effective November 13, 2018.
    The Director of the Federal Register approved the incorporation by 
reference of a certain publication listed in the AD as of November 13, 
2018.
    We must receive comments on this AD by December 10, 2018.

ADDRESSES: You may send comments by any of the following methods:
     Federal eRulemaking Portal: Go to https://www.regulations.gov. Follow the instructions for submitting comments.
     Fax: (202) 493-2251.
     Mail: U.S. Department of Transportation, Docket 
Operations, M-30, West Building Ground Floor, Room W12-140, 1200 New 
Jersey Avenue SE, Washington, DC 20590.
     Hand Delivery: 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 Glasfaser 
Flugzeug-Service GmbH, Hansjorg Streifeneder, Hofener Weg 61, 72582 
Grabenstetten, Germany; phone: +49 (0)7382/1032; fax: +49 (0)7382/1629; 
email: [email protected]; internet: https://www.streifly.de/kontakt-e.htm. You may view this referenced service information at the FAA, 
Policy and Innovation, 901 Locust, Kansas City, Missouri 64106. For 
information on the availability of this material at the FAA, call (816) 
329-4148. It is also available on the internet at https://www.regulations.gov by searching for locating Docket No. FAA-2018-0891.

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-
0891; 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 regulatory 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 FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Jim Rutherford, Aerospace Engineer, 
FAA, Policy and Innovation Division, 901 Locust, Room 301, Kansas City, 
Missouri 64106; telephone: (816) 329-4165; fax: (816) 329-4090; email: 
j[email protected].

SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: 

Discussion

    The European Aviation Safety Agency (EASA), which is the Technical 
Agent for the Member States of the European Community, has issued AD 
No. 2018-0143-E, dated July 6, 2018 (referred to after this as ``the 
MCAI''), to correct an unsafe condition for the specified products. The 
MCAI states:

    Jamming between the double two ring end of the towing cable and 
the deflector angles of the C.G. release mechanism was reported. 
Subsequent investigation identified incorrect geometry of the 
deflector angles of the affected part as likely cause of the 
jamming.
    This condition, if not detected and corrected, could lead to 
failure to disconnect the towing cable, possibly resulting in 
reduced or loss of control of the sailplane.
    To address this potential unsafe condition, Glasfaser Flugzeug-
Service GmbH issued the TN [Technical Note] to provide inspection 
instructions and corrective action.
    For the reasons described above, this [EASA] AD requires 
repetitive inspections of the affected part, and, depending on 
findings, accomplishment of applicable corrective action(s). This 
[EASA] AD also requires amendment of the sailplane Aircraft Flight 
Manual (AFM).

You may examine the MCAI on the internet at https://www.regulations.gov 
by searching for and locating Docket No. FAA-2018-0891.

Record of Ex Parte Communication

    In preparation of AD actions, such as notices of proposed 
rulemaking and immediately adopted final rules, the FAA obtains 
technical data and information on the operational and economic impact 
from design approval holders and aircraft operators. We discussed 
certain aspects of this AD by email with Glasfaser Flugzeug-Service 
GmbH. You may find a copy of each email contact in the rulemaking 
docket. For information on locating the docket, see ``Examining the AD 
Docket.''

Related Service Information Under 1 CFR Part 51

    We reviewed Glasfaser-Flugzeug-Service GmbH Technical Note No. 5-
2018, dated June 25, 2018. The service information describes procedures 
for measuring the distance between the deflector-angles at the C.G. 
release and modifying the deflector-angles if necessary. 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 and Requirements of the AD

    This product has been approved by the aviation authority of another 
country, and is approved for operation in the United States. Pursuant 
to our bilateral agreement with this State of Design Authority, they 
have notified us of the unsafe condition described in the MCAI and 
service information referenced above. We are issuing this AD because we 
evaluated all information provided by the State of Design Authority and 
determined the unsafe condition exists and is likely to exist or 
develop on other products of the same type design.

[[Page 53574]]

FAA's Determination of the Effective Date

    An unsafe condition exists that requires the immediate adoption of 
this AD. The FAA has found that the risk to the flying public justifies 
waiving notice and comment prior to adoption of this rule because 
injury could occur to people on the ground if the towing cable breaks 
during a wench launch. As such, operators must take corrective action 
before the next launch of the glider. Therefore, 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 fewer than 30 days.

Comments Invited

    This AD is a final rule that involves requirements affecting flight 
safety, and we did not precede it by notice and opportunity for public 
comment. We invite you to send any written relevant data, views, or 
arguments about this AD. Send your comments to an address listed under 
the ADDRESSES section. Include ``Docket No. FAA-2018-0891; Product 
Identifier 2018-CE-038-AD'' at the beginning of your comments. We 
specifically invite comments on the overall regulatory, economic, 
environmental, and energy aspects of this AD. We will consider all 
comments received by the closing date and may amend this AD because of 
those comments.
    We will post all comments we receive, without change, to https://www.regulations.gov, including any personal information you provide. We 
will also post a report summarizing each substantive verbal contact we 
receive about this AD.

Costs of Compliance

    We estimate that this AD will affect 177 products of U.S. registry. 
We also estimate that it would take about 1 work-hour per product to 
comply with the inspection requirements of this AD. The average labor 
rate is $85 per work-hour.
    Based on these figures, we estimate the cost of the AD on U.S. 
operators to be $15,045, or $85 per product.
    We estimate that any modification of the deflector-angles that may 
be necessary as a result of the inspection would take about 4 work-
hours and require parts costing $100, for a cost of $440 per product. 
We have no way of determining the number of products that may need 
these actions.

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.
    This AD is issued in accordance with authority delegated by the 
Executive Director, Aircraft Certification Service, as authorized by 
FAA Order 8000.51C. In accordance with that order, issuance of ADs is 
normally a function of the Compliance and Airworthiness Division, but 
during this transition period, the Executive Director has delegated the 
authority to issue ADs applicable to small airplanes, gliders, 
balloons, airships, domestic business jet transport airplanes, and 
associated appliances to the Director of the Policy and Innovation 
Division.

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 above, I certify that this AD:
    (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, 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.

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):

2018-21-04 Glasflugel: Amendment 39-19462; Docket No. FAA-2018-0891; 
Product Identifier 2018-CE-038-AD.

(a) Effective Date

    This AD becomes effective November 13, 2018.

(b) Affected ADs

    None.

(c) Applicability

    This AD applies to Glasflugel Models Club Libelle 205, H 301 
``Libelle,'' H 301B ``Libelle,'' Kestrel, Mosquito, Standard 
``Libelle,'' and Standard Libelle-201B gliders, certificated in any 
category, with a center of gravity (C.G.) tow release installed.

(d) Subject

    Air Transport Association of America (ATA) Code 25: Equipment/
Furnishing.

(e) Reason

    This AD was prompted by mandatory continuing airworthiness 
information (MCAI) issued by the aviation authority of another 
country to identify and correct an unsafe condition on an aviation 
product. The MCAI describes the unsafe condition as jamming between 
the double two-ring end of the towing cable and the deflector angles 
of the C.G. release mechanism. We are issuing this AD to prevent 
failure of the towing cable to disconnect, which could result in 
reduced or loss of control of the glider or the cable breaking and 
causing injury to people on the ground.

(f) Actions and Compliance

    Unless already done, do the following actions in paragraphs 
(f)(1) and (3) of this AD.
    (1) Before the next winch launch after November 13, 2018 (the 
effective date of this AD), inspect the distance between the 
deflector-angles by following paragraph 1 in the Actions section of 
Glasfaser-Flugzeug-Service GmbH Technical Note No. 5-2018, dated 
June 25, 2018.
    (2) If the distance is less than 36 mm during the inspection 
required in paragraph (f)(1) of this AD, before the next winch 
launch after November 13, 2018 (the effective date of this AD), do 
the corrective action in paragraph 2 in the Actions section of 
Glasfaser-Flugzeug-Service GmbH Technical Note No. 5-2018, dated 
June 25, 2018.

[[Page 53575]]

    (3) Before the next winch launch after November 13, 2018 (the 
effective date of this AD), revise the flying operations section of 
the sailplane flight manual by inserting the text in paragraph 
(f)(3)(i) of this AD into the winch tow section.
    (i) Winch launching is permissible only with a connecting ring 
pair that conforms to aeronautical standard LN 65091.
    (ii) This action may be done by the owner/operator (pilot) 
holding at least a private pilot certificate and must be entered 
into the aircraft records showing compliance with this AD by 
following 14 CFR 43.9 (a)(1) through (4) and 14 CFR 91.417(a)(2)(v). 
The record must be maintained as required by 14 CFR 91.417, 121.380, 
or 135.439.

(g) Other FAA AD Provisions

    The following provisions also apply to this AD:
    (1) Alternative Methods of Compliance (AMOCs): The Manager, 
Small Airplane Standards Branch, FAA, has the authority to approve 
AMOCs for this AD, if requested using the procedures found in 14 CFR 
39.19. Send information to ATTN: Jim Rutherford, Aerospace Engineer, 
FAA, Policy and Innovation Division, 901 Locust, Room 301, Kansas 
City, Missouri 64106; telephone: (816) 329-4165; fax: (816) 329-
4090; email: [email protected]. Before using any approved AMOC 
on any glider to which the AMOC applies, notify your appropriate 
principal inspector (PI) in the FAA Flight Standards District Office 
(FSDO), or lacking a PI, your local FSDO.
    (2) Contacting the Manufacturer: For any requirement in this AD 
to obtain corrective actions from a manufacturer, the action must 
instead be accomplished using a method approved by the Manager, 
Small Airplane Standards Branch, FAA; or the European Aviation 
Safety Agency (EASA).

(h) Related Information

    Refer to MCAI EASA AD No. 2018-0143-E, dated July 6, 2018, for 
related information. You may examine the MCAI on the internet at 
https://www.regulations.gov by searching for and locating Docket No. 
FAA-2018-0891.

(i) 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) Glasfaser-Flugzeug-Service GmbH Technical Note No. 5-2018, 
dated June 25, 2018.
    (ii) [Reserved]
    (3) For service information identified in this AD, contact 
Glasfaser Flugzeug-Service GmbH, Hansjorg Streifeneder, Hofener Weg 
61, 72582 Grabenstetten, Germany; phone: +49 (0)7382/1032; fax: +49 
(0)7382/1629; email: [email protected]; internet: https://www.streifly.de/kontakt-e.htm.
    (4) You may view this service information at the FAA, Policy and 
Innovation, 901 Locust, Kansas City, Missouri 64106. For information 
on the availability of this material at the FAA, call (816) 329-
4148. It is also available on the internet at https://www.regulations.gov by searching for locating Docket No. FAA-2018-
0891.
    (5) You may view this service information that is incorporated 
by reference at the National Archives and Records Administration 
(NARA). For information on the availability of this material at 
NARA, call 202-741-6030, or go to: https://www.archives.gov/federal-register/cfr/ibr-locations.html.

    Issued in Kansas City, Missouri, on October 12, 2018.
Melvin J. Johnson,
Aircraft Certification Service, Deputy Director, Policy and Innovation 
Division, AIR-601.
[FR Doc. 2018-23107 Filed 10-23-18; 8:45 am]
 BILLING CODE 4910-13-P

This site is protected by reCAPTCHA and the Google Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply.