Airworthiness Directives; Zodiac Aerotechnics Oxygen Mask Regulators, 4987-4991 [2019-02748]

Download as PDF Federal Register / Vol. 84, No. 34 / Wednesday, February 20, 2019 / Rules and Regulations in paragraphs (e)(1)(i) and (ii) of this section. (2) The first submission by any central counterparty that is a covered reporter as of the effective date of this Section shall be submitted on the first business day after the applicable compliance date under paragraph (e)(1) of this section. DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION Note 1 to paragraph (e)(2): For example, if this section became effective on March 20, 2019, a central counterparty that meets the dollar threshold specified in paragraph (b)(2) of this section for the calendar quarter ending December 31, 2018, would be required to submit its first report under paragraph (e)(1)(i) of this section on the first business day after September 16, 2019, its first report under paragraph (e)(1)(ii) of this section on November 15, 2019, and its first report with data elements requiring an LEI (other than that of the covered reporter) on May 13, 2020 (if the covered reporter effected the rulemaking described in paragraph (e)(1)(iii) of this section). RIN 2120–AA64 (3) Any central counterparty that becomes a covered reporter after the effective date of this Section shall comply with the reporting requirements pursuant to this Section beginning on the later of the schedule set forth in paragraphs (e)(1)(i) through (iii) of this section or the first business day of the third calendar quarter following the calendar quarter in which such central counterparty meets the dollar threshold specified in paragraph (b)(2) of this section. Note 2 to paragraph (e)(3): For example, if this section became effective on March 20, 2019, a central counterparty that first meets the dollar threshold specified in paragraph (b)(2) of this section for the calendar quarter ending June 30, 2019, would be required to submit its first report under paragraphs (e)(1)(i) and (ii) of this section on January 2, 2020, and its first report with data elements requiring an LEI (other than that of the covered reporter) on May 13, 2020 (if the covered reporter effected the rulemaking described in paragraph (e)(1)(iii) of this section by May 13, 2020). Note 3 to paragraph (e)(3): For example, if this section became effective on March 20, 2019, a central counterparty that first met the dollar threshold specified in paragraph (b)(2) for the calendar quarter ending June 30, 2020, would be required to comply with all of the reporting requirements under this section on January 2, 2021 (and would continue to be required to report all data elements requiring a legal name or internal identifier for at least 365 days after the effective date of the covered reporter’s rulemaking described in paragraph (e)(1)(iii) if such effective date occurred after January 2, 2021). Ryan D. Brady, Executive Secretary, Department of the Treasury. [FR Doc. 2019–02639 Filed 2–19–19; 8:45 am] BILLING CODE 4810–25–P VerDate Sep<11>2014 17:42 Feb 19, 2019 Jkt 247001 Federal Aviation Administration 14 CFR Part 39 [Docket No. FAA–2017–0505; Product Identifier 2017–NE–15–AD; Amendment 39– 19472; AD 2018–21–14] Airworthiness Directives; Zodiac Aerotechnics Oxygen Mask Regulators Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), DOT. ACTION: Final rule. AGENCY: Examining the AD Docket You may examine the AD docket on the internet at https:// www.regulations.gov by searching for and locating Docket No. FAA–2017– 0505; 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 mandatory continuing airworthiness information (MCAI), the regulatory evaluation, any comments received, and Fmt 4700 Sfmt 4700 Erin King, Aerospace Engineer, Boston ACO Branch, FAA, 1200 District Avenue, Burlington, MA 01803; phone 781–238– 7655; fax: 781–238–7199; email: erin.king@faa.gov. FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Discussion We are adopting a new airworthiness directive (AD) for certain Zodiac Aerotechnics (Zodiac) oxygen mask regulators. This AD was prompted by reports that certain silicon harness inflation hoses installed on certain flight crew quick donning mask harnesses have shown an unusually high premature rupture rate. This AD requires inspection and replacement of certain oxygen mask regulator harness inflation hoses. We are issuing this AD to address the unsafe condition on these products. DATES: This AD is effective March 27, 2019. The Director of the Federal Register approved the incorporation by reference of a certain publication listed in this AD as of March 27, 2019. ADDRESSES: For service information identified in this final rule, contact Zodiac Aerotechnics, 61 rue Pierre Curie BP 1, 78373 Plaisir, CEDEX, France; phone: +33 1 6486 6964; email: Christophe.besset@ zodiacaerospace.com or Yann.laine@ zodiacaerospace.com. You may view this service information at the FAA, Engine & Propeller Standards Branch, 1200 District Avenue, Burlington, MA 01803. 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–2017– 0505. Frm 00037 other information. The address for Docket Operations (phone: 800–647– 5527) is U.S. Department of Transportation, Docket Operations, M– 30, West Building Ground Floor, Room W12–140, 1200 New Jersey Avenue SE, Washington, DC 20590. SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: SUMMARY: PO 00000 4987 We issued a notice of proposed rulemaking (NPRM) to amend 14 CFR part 39 by adding an AD that would apply to certain Zodiac oxygen mask regulators. The NPRM published in the Federal Register on September 25, 2017 (82 FR 44539). The NPRM was prompted by reports that certain silicon harness inflation hoses installed on certain flight crew quick donning mask harnesses have shown an unusually high premature rupture rate. The NPRM proposed to require an inspection and replacement of oxygen mask regulator harness inflation hoses. We are issuing this AD to address the unsafe condition on these products. The European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA), which is the Technical Agent for the Member States of the European Community, has issued EASA AD 2014–0142, Revision 01, dated June 11, 2014 (referred to after this as ‘‘the MCAI’’), to address the unsafe condition on these products. The MCAI states: Recent reported occurrences have shown that for harness hoses P/N 445952, installed on certain flight crew quick donning mask harnesses (also known as ‘comfort’ harness) having P/N MXH21–1, suspected silicon batches may have been used during manufacture, which have shown an unusually high premature rupture rate. The affected P/N MXH21–1 inflatable harness assembly consists of two main parts that can be disassembled; the harness itself and the harness inflation hose, P/N 445952. This condition, if not detected and corrected, could lead, in case of a sudden depressurization event, to a harness rupture, thereby providing inadequate protection against hypoxia of the affected flight crew member, possibly resulting in unconsciousness and consequent reduced control of the aeroplane. You may obtain further information by examining the MCAI in the AD docket on the internet at https:// www.regulations.gov by searching for and locating Docket No. FAA–2017– 0505. E:\FR\FM\20FER1.SGM 20FER1 4988 Federal Register / Vol. 84, No. 34 / Wednesday, February 20, 2019 / Rules and Regulations Comments We gave the public the opportunity to participate in developing this final rule. The following presents the comments received on the NPRM and the FAA’s response to each comment. Comment To Figure Reference in Service Information NetJets Aviation, Inc. (NetJets) commented that Accomplishment Instructions, paragraph 3.A.(1) of Zodiac Aerospace Service Bulletin (SB) MC10– 35–274, Revision 02, dated June 25, 2014, references Figure 3; however, there are only Figures 1 and 2 in this SB. We agree that Zodiac Aerospace SB MC10–35–274, Revision 02, dated June 25, 2014, references Figure 3 in error. The FAA, however, is not responsible for administrative errors in SBs. We did not change this AD. Request To Revise Part for Installation Eligibility American Airlines (AA) requested that we revise the phrase in paragraph (h)(2) of the NPRM from ‘‘inflatable harness assembly’’ to ‘‘crew oxygen mask regulator.’’ AA reasoned that paragraph 1.A.(1) of Zodiac Aerospace SB MC10–35–274, Revision 02, dated June 25, 2014, includes both the inflatable harness assembly part numbers (P/Ns) as well as the crew oxygen mask regulator P/Ns. The intent is to check the crew oxygen mask regulator for installation eligibility. We agree. We revised the paragraphs in this AD that refer to parts eligible for installation as the ‘‘crew oxygen mask regulator.’’ Request To Add Credit for Previous Actions Paragraph AA and NetJets requested that we add a Credit For Previous Actions paragraph to this AD. AA asked that we give credit for actions required by this AD if those actions were performed before the effective date of this AD using Zodiac Aerospace SB MC10–35–274, Revision 01, dated April 18, 2014, or Original Issue, dated March 19, 2014. NetJets asked that in addition to the SBs mentioned above, we also give credit for using EASA AD 2014–0142, Revision 01, dated June 11, 2014, to accomplish the actions required by this AD. AA reasoned that EASA AD 2014–0142, Revision 01, dated June 11, 2014, allows for compliance with earlier revisions of the service information. We partially agree. We agree to give credit for accomplishing the required actions if operators used Zodiac Aerospace SB MC10–35–274, Revision 01, dated April 18, 2014, or Zodiac VerDate Sep<11>2014 17:42 Feb 19, 2019 Jkt 247001 Aerospace SB MC10–35–274, Original Issue, dated March 19, 2014, because this meets the intended safety requirements of this AD. We added a Credit For Previous Actions paragraph to this AD. We disagree with revising the AD to allow for previous credit for performing EASA AD 2014–0142, Revision 01, dated June 11, 2014, because this is not necessary and is inconsistent with how we draft ADs. Request To Clarify the Oxygen Mask Regulator Prohibition AA, NetJets, and United Airlines (United) requested clarification regarding the oxygen mask regulator prohibition in the Installation Prohibition paragraph of this AD. The commenters reasoned that paragraph (h)(1), as proposed in the NPRM, prohibited the installation of certain oxygen mask regulators; whereas, paragraphs (h)(2) and (3) in the NPRM describe criteria that allow installation. AA requested that we remove paragraph (h)(1) of this AD. NetJets requested clarification and possible rewording of paragraph (h)(1) of this AD. United suggested rewording and reformatting of paragraph (h)(1) of this AD. We partially agree. We agree that we need to clarify this AD to more clearly describe when a flight crew oxygen mask regulator is eligible for installation. We revised the Installation Prohibition paragraph by moving paragraphs (h)(2) and (3) into a Definition paragraph. We also revised paragraph (h)(1) of the NPRM, now paragraph (h) in the final rule, to allow the installation of certain oxygen mask regulators when they meet the criteria specified in paragraph (i)(1) of this AD. We disagree with removing paragraph (h)(1) from this AD (paragraph (h) in the final rule) because oxygen mask regulators with a P/N listed in Paragraph 1.A.(1) of Zodiac Aerospace SB MC10–35–274, Revision 02, dated June 25, 2014, cannot be installed unless they meet the criteria specified in paragraph (i), Definition, of this AD. Request To Remove Hose Part Numbers United requested that we clarify references to specific harness inflation hose P/Ns in the Applicability paragraph, paragraph (c), and the Required Actions paragraph, specifically paragraphs (g)(2) and (3), of this AD. United noted that these P/Ns are not identified on the inflation harness assemblies after the hoses are installed on a crew oxygen mask assembly. United reasoned that although detailed shop records would likely itemize the hose P/Ns, they are PO 00000 Frm 00038 Fmt 4700 Sfmt 4700 unaware of any parts ‘data plate’ or ‘data tag’ on the inflation harness assemblies that identify the hose P/Ns after they are installed on a crew oxygen mask assembly. We partially agree. We agree that the hose P/Ns are not required in the Applicability paragraph of this AD. We revised the applicability, paragraph (c), of this AD by removing the references to the installation hose and its P/Ns. We disagree with removing the hose P/Ns from paragraphs (g)(2) and (3) of this AD. Although the commenter correctly points out that there is no data tag or data plate affixed to the hose, these P/Ns are useful to operators who can determine the hose P/N. Additionally, identifying the hose P/Ns in this AD is consistent with EASA AD 2014–0142, Revision 01, dated June 11, 2014. Request To Increase the Compliance Time United and AA requested, respectively, that we increase the compliance time from 24 months to 36 or to 48 months. The commenters reasoned that operators experienced supply issues when trying to comply with AD 2015–08–07 and many operators requested extensions to the compliance time. The supply situation was worsened because some oxygen mask regulator harnesses needed to be replaced because of illegible or nonexistent part marking. We partially agree. We agree to increase the compliance time to 36 months to ensure that suppliers can provide the parts because of the possibility there will be supply issues. Zodiac has not been able to determine inventory because they do not know the number of parts in use by U.S. operators. Increasing the compliance time by 12 months still meets the safety objectives of this AD. Our understanding from Zodiac is that they recommend hose replacement every 72 months, and given that all of the affected hoses were manufactured between 2008 and 2010, many of the affected hoses likely have been removed from service. We disagree with increasing the compliance time to 48 months because 36 months is sufficient to comply with the required actions of this AD. Additionally, we do not want to extend, beyond a reasonable time, the period for which suspect parts can remain on aircraft. We revised paragraph (g)(1) of this AD to increase the compliance time to 36 months. E:\FR\FM\20FER1.SGM 20FER1 Federal Register / Vol. 84, No. 34 / Wednesday, February 20, 2019 / Rules and Regulations Request To Decrease the Compliance Time remarking P/Ns MXH20–1 and MXH21– 1 with a ‘‘W.’’ The Airline Pilots Association International (ALPA) requested that the compliance time decrease from 24 months to 12 months. ALPA reasoned that greater than 40 months have passed since EASA AD 2014–0142, Revision 01, dated June 11, 2014, became effective. ALPA also noted that the required time to comply with the AD is one work-hour. Based on these factors the compliance time of this AD should be decreased to minimize risk. We disagree. We note that operators may have difficulty obtaining replacement parts within a shortened compliance time. Also, the compliance time of 36 months after the effective date of this AD meets the safety objectives of this AD. We did not change this AD. Request To Include Inflatable Harness Assemblies Marked With an ‘‘I’’ Request To Remove the P/Ns That Are Not Eligible for the ‘‘W’’ Marking AA and United requested that we remove the reference to inflatable harness assembly P/Ns that have been re-marked with a ‘‘W’’ from the Installation Prohibition, of this AD. The commenters reasoned that adding a ‘‘W’’ applies only to oxygen mask regulator assemblies that have inflation harness assemblies, P/N MXH21–31, installed per Zodiac Aerospace SB MA_B_C_F10– 35–260, dated October 19, 2012, or later revisions. We agree. When an oxygen mask is modified per Zodiac SB MA_B_C_F10– 35–260 and marked with a ‘‘W,’’ the P/ N also changes to MXH21–31. Therefore, only P/N MXH21–31 is marked with a ‘‘W.’’ Paragraph (h)(3) of the NPRM incorrectly implied that P/N MXH20–1 and P/N MXH21–1 might also be marked with a ‘‘W.’’ We revised this AD by removing the reference to AA requested that we include inflatable harness assembly marked with an ‘‘I’’ on the metal bushing to Required Actions, paragraph (g)(3), of this AD. AA reasoned that inflatable harness assemblies with an ‘‘I’’ on the metal bushings have been inspected and are not affected by this AD. We agree. Based on paragraph 2.E. of Zodiac SB MC10–35–274, Revision 02, dated June 25, 2014, marking an ‘‘I’’ on the metal bushing of the inflatable harness indicates accomplishment of the SB. We have revised paragraph (g)(3) of this AD to note that inflatable harness assemblies with metal bushings marked with an ‘‘I’’ are not affected by this AD. Request To Delay the Installation Prohibition Start Time United requested that we add ‘‘within 60 days of the effective date of this AD’’ to the Installation Prohibition of this AD to provide more time before prohibiting the installation of the affected flight crew oxygen mask regulators. United reasoned that immediately restricting the installation of the affected regulators after the effective date of this AD is a logistical challenge and can be counterproductive. United is also concerned that material orders will be over abundantly placed to compensate for not knowing the modification status of their mask inventory. United believes that offsetting the start of a parts installation prohibition period would not significantly increase the risk. We disagree. Given the increased compliance time allowed in paragraph (g)(1) of this AD, operators should have time to assess their inventory and make accurate purchases to replace affected 4989 parts. It would not be in the interest of safety to allow the period for which suspect parts could remain on the aircraft to continue for any period after this AD is published. We did not change this AD. Conclusion We reviewed the relevant data, considered the comments received, and determined that air safety and the public interest require adopting this final rule with the changes described previously and minor editorial changes. We have determined that these minor changes: • Are consistent with the intent that was proposed in the NPRM for addressing the unsafe condition; and • Do not add any additional burden upon the public than was already proposed in the NPRM. We also determined that these changes will not increase the economic burden on any operator or increase the scope of this final rule. Related Service Information Under 1 CFR Part 51 We reviewed Zodiac Aerospace SB MC10–35–274, Revision 02, dated June 25, 2014. The SB describes procedures for inspecting and replacing, if necessary, oxygen mask regulator inflatable harnesses. This service information is reasonably available because the interested parties have access to it through their normal course of business or by the means identified in the ADDRESSES section. Costs of Compliance We estimate that this AD affects an unknown number of oxygen mask regulators installed on, but not limited to, various aircraft of U.S. registry. We estimate the following costs to comply with this AD: ESTIMATED COSTS Action Labor cost Date of manufacturing code review ............................. Hose replacement ........................................................ 0.1 work-hours × $85 per hour = $8.50 ....................... 0.3 work-hours × $85 per hour = $25.50 ..................... 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. VerDate Sep<11>2014 17:42 Feb 19, 2019 Jkt 247001 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 PO 00000 Frm 00039 Fmt 4700 Sfmt 4700 Parts cost $0 1,465.00 Cost per product $8.50 1,490.50 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 E:\FR\FM\20FER1.SGM 20FER1 4990 Federal Register / Vol. 84, No. 34 / Wednesday, February 20, 2019 / Rules and Regulations Division, but during this transition period, the Executive Director has delegated the authority to issue ADs applicable to engines, propellers, and associated appliances to the Manager, Engine and Propeller Standards Branch, Policy and Innovation Division. Regulatory Findings This AD will not have federalism implications under Executive Order 13132. This AD will not have a substantial direct effect on the States, on the relationship between the national government and the States, or on the distribution of power and responsibilities among the various levels of government. For the reasons discussed above, I certify 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 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): ■ 2018–21–14 Zodiac Aerotechnics (formerly Intertechnique): Amendment 39–19472; Docket No. FAA–2017–0505; Product Identifier 2017–NE–15–AD. (a) Effective Date This AD is effective March 27, 2019. (b) Affected ADs None. (c) Applicability This AD applies to Zodiac Aerotechnics (Zodiac) MC10 series crew oxygen mask VerDate Sep<11>2014 17:42 Feb 19, 2019 Jkt 247001 regulators fitted with an inflatable harness assembly, part number (P/N) MXH20–1 or MXH21–1. is acceptable to make the determination, provided those records can be relied upon for that purpose. (d) Subject Joint Aircraft System Component (JASC) Code 3510, Crew Oxygen System. (h) Installation Prohibition (e) Unsafe Condition This AD was prompted by reports that certain silicon harness inflation hoses installed on certain flight crew quick donning mask harnesses (also known as ‘comfort’ harness) have shown an unusually high premature rupture rate. We are issuing this AD to prevent a harness rupture during a sudden depressurization event. The unsafe condition, if not addressed, could result in hypoxia and subsequent unconsciousness of the affected flight crew member, and consequent reduced control of the aircraft. (f) Compliance Comply with this AD within the compliance times specified, unless already done. (g) Required Actions (1) Within 36 months after the effective date of this AD, determine the date of manufacturing (DMF) code of each inflatable harness assembly, P/N MXH20–1 and P/N MXH21–1, fitted to a flight crew oxygen mask regulator, having a P/N listed in Planning Information, paragraph 1.A.(1), of Zodiac Aerospace Service Bulletin (SB) MC10–35–274, Revision 02, dated June 25, 2014. A review of airplane delivery or maintenance records is acceptable to make the determination as specified in this paragraph, provided those records can be relied upon for that purpose, and the DMF of the inflatable harness assembly, P/N MXH20–1 or P/N MXH21–1, as applicable, can be conclusively identified from that review. (2) If during the review required by paragraph (g)(1) of this AD, the DMF code of the inflatable harness assembly, P/N MXH20–1 or P/N MXH21–1, is found to be between 0850–S and 1051–S (inclusive): Within 36 months after the effective date of this AD, replace the harness inflation hose, P/N 445186 or P/N 445952, as applicable, with a part eligible for installation, or remove the inflatable harness assembly from the mask regulator and replace it with an inflatable harness assembly eligible for installation. (3) An oxygen mask regulator equipped with an inflatable harness assembly, P/N MXH20–1 or P/N MXH21–1, having a DMF code of November 2008 (0845–S or 08/45–S) or earlier, and those with a DMF code of January 2011 (1101–S or 11/01–S) or later, are excluded from the requirements of this AD, provided it can be demonstrated that neither the inflatable harness assembly, nor the harness inflation hose, P/N 445186 or P/ N 445952, as applicable, was replaced on that mask. An oxygen mask regulator with an inflatable harness assembly, P/N MXH20–1 or P/N MXH21–1, and with an inflatatable harness assembly with a metal bushing that has been marked with an ‘‘I’’ is also excluded from the requirements of this AD. A review of airplane delivery or maintenance records PO 00000 Frm 00040 Fmt 4700 Sfmt 4700 After the effective date of this AD, do not install on any airplane a flight crew oxygen mask regulator with a P/N listed in Planning Information, paragraph 1.A.(1), of Zodiac SB MC10–35–274, Revision 02, dated June 25, 2014, unless it meets the definition of a part eligible for installation in paragraph (i) of this AD. (i) Definition (1) After the effective date of this AD, a part eligible for installation is a crew oxygen mask regulator with: (i) A P/N identified in Planning Information, paragraph 1.A.(1), of Zodiac Aerospace SB MC10–35–274, Revision 02, dated June 25, 2014, provided it has been determined that a P/N MXH20–1 or P/N MXH21–1 inflatable harness installed on that crew oxygen mask regulator has been inspected, and re-marked with an ‘‘I’’ as required by Material Information, paragraph 2.E. of Zodiac Aerospace SB MC10–35–274, Revision 02, dated June 25, 2014; or (ii) a P/N identified in Planning Information, paragraph 1.A.(1), of Zodiac Aerospace SB MC10–35–274, Revision 02, dated June 25, 2014, provided it has been determined that an inflatable harness, P/N MXH21–31, is installed. (2) [Reserved] (j) Credit for Previous Actions You may take credit for the inspection and replacement of the oxygen mask regulator harness inflation hose required by paragraphs (g)(1) and (2) of this AD, if you performed the inspection and replacement using the Accomplishment Instructions, paragraph 3, of Zodiac Aerospace SB MC10–35–274, Initial Issue, dated March 19, 2014, or Revision 01, dated April 18, 2014. (k) Alternative Methods of Compliance (AMOCs) (1) The Manager, FAA, Boston ACO Branch, Compliance and Airworthiness Division, has the authority to approve AMOCs 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 ACO Branch, send it to the attention of the person identified in paragraph (l)(1) of this AD. You may email your request to: ANE-AD-AMOC@faa.gov. (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. (l) Related Information (1) For more information about this AD, contact Erin King, Aerospace Engineer, Boston ACO Branch, FAA, 1200 District Avenue, Burlington, MA 01803; phone 781– 238–7655; fax: 781–238–7199; email: erin.king@faa.gov. E:\FR\FM\20FER1.SGM 20FER1 Federal Register / Vol. 84, No. 34 / Wednesday, February 20, 2019 / Rules and Regulations (2) Refer to European Union Aviation Safety Agency AD 2014–0142, Revision 01, dated June 11, 2014, for more information. You may examine the EASA AD in the AD docket on the internet at https:// www.regulations.gov by searching for and locating Docket No. FAA–2017–0505. (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) Zodiac Aerospace Service Bulletin MC10–35–274, Revision 02, dated June 25, 2014. (ii) [Reserved] (3) For service information identified in this AD, contact Zodiac Aerotechnics, 61 rue Pierre Curie BP 1, 78373 Plaisir, CEDEX, France; phone: +33 1 6486 6964; email: Christophe.besset@zodiacaerospace.com or Yann.laine@zodiacaerospace.com. (4) You may view this service information at FAA, Engine & Propeller Standards Branch, 1200 District Avenue, Burlington, MA 01803. For information on the availability of this material at the FAA, call 781–238–7759. (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 Burlington, Massachusetts, on February 13, 2019. Robert J. Ganley, Manager, Engine and Propeller Standards Branch, Aircraft Certification Service. [FR Doc. 2019–02748 Filed 2–19–19; 8:45 am] BILLING CODE 4910–13–P DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION Federal Aviation Administration 14 CFR Part 71 [Docket No. FAA–2018–0256; Airspace Docket No. 18–AEA–11] RIN 2120–AA66 Amendment of Class D Airspace and Class E Airspace; Schenectady, NY, Ithaca, NY, and Albany, NY Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), DOT. ACTION: Final rule. AGENCY: This action amends Class D airspace, Class E airspace designated as an extension to a Class D surface area, and Class E airspace extending upward from 700 feet or more above the surface SUMMARY: VerDate Sep<11>2014 17:42 Feb 19, 2019 Jkt 247001 at Schenectady County Airport, Schenectady, NY, and Albany, NY by updating the geographic coordinates of this airport, Saratoga County Airport, Hunter NDB, and Cambridge VOR/DME. Controlled airspace is necessary for the safety and management of instrument flight rules (IFR) operations at this airport. This action also replaces the outdated term Airport/Facility Directory with the term Chart Supplement in the legal descriptions of associated Class D and E airspace of Schenectady County Airport, Schenectady, NY, and Ithaca Tompkins Regional Airport, Ithaca, NY. In addition, subsequent to publication, it was noted that the Cambridge VOR/ DME was identified as VORTAC. This action corrects the error. DATES: Effective 0901 UTC, April 25, 2019. The Director of the Federal Register approves this incorporation by reference action under Title 1 Code of Federal Regulations part 51, subject to the annual revision of FAA Order 7400.11 and publication of conforming amendments. ADDRESSES: FAA Order 7400.11C, 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 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 7400.11C 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: John Fornito, Operations Support Group, Eastern Service Center, Federal Aviation Administration, 1701 Columbia Avenue, College Park, GA 30337; telephone (404) 305–6364. 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, PO 00000 Frm 00041 Fmt 4700 Sfmt 4700 4991 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 amends Class D airspace and Class E airspace at Schenectady County Airport, Schenectady, NY, Ithaca Tompkins Regional Airport, Ithaca, NY, and Saratoga County Airport, Albany, NY to support IFR operations at these airports. History The FAA published a notice of proposed rulemaking in the Federal Register (83 FR 60378, November 26, 2018) for Docket No. FAA–2018–0256 to amend Class D airspace and Class E airspace at Schenectady County Airport, Schenectady, NY, Ithaca Tompkins Regional Airport, Ithaca, NY, and Saratoga County Airport, Albany, NY to support IFR operations at these airports. Interested parties were invited to participate in this rulemaking effort by submitting written comments on the proposal to the FAA. No comments were received. Class D and Class E airspace designations are published in paragraphs 5000, 6002, 6004, and 6005, respectively, of FAA Order 7400.11C dated August 13, 2018, and effective September 15, 2018, which is incorporated by reference in 14 CFR part 71.1. The Class D and Class E airspace designation listed in this document will be published subsequently in the Order. Availability and Summary of Documents for Incorporation by Reference This document amends FAA Order 7400.11C, Airspace Designations and Reporting Points, dated August 13, 2018, and effective September 15, 2018. FAA Order 7400.11C is publicly available as listed in the ADDRESSES section of this document. FAA Order 7400.11C lists Class A, B, C, D, and E airspace areas, air traffic service routes, and reporting points. The Rule This amendment to Title 14 Code of Federal Regulations (14 CFR) part 71 amends Class D airspace, Class E airspace designated as an extension to a Class D surface area, at Schenectady County Airport, Schenectady, NY and Class E airspace area extending upward from 700 feet or more above the surface at Albany, NY, by updating the geographic coordinates of Saratoga County Airport, Hunter NDB, and Cambridge VOR/DME to be in concert E:\FR\FM\20FER1.SGM 20FER1

Agencies

[Federal Register Volume 84, Number 34 (Wednesday, February 20, 2019)]
[Rules and Regulations]
[Pages 4987-4991]
From the Federal Register Online via the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]
[FR Doc No: 2019-02748]


=======================================================================
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DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION

Federal Aviation Administration

14 CFR Part 39

[Docket No. FAA-2017-0505; Product Identifier 2017-NE-15-AD; Amendment 
39-19472; AD 2018-21-14]
RIN 2120-AA64


Airworthiness Directives; Zodiac Aerotechnics Oxygen Mask 
Regulators

AGENCY: Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), DOT.

ACTION: Final rule.

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

SUMMARY: We are adopting a new airworthiness directive (AD) for certain 
Zodiac Aerotechnics (Zodiac) oxygen mask regulators. This AD was 
prompted by reports that certain silicon harness inflation hoses 
installed on certain flight crew quick donning mask harnesses have 
shown an unusually high premature rupture rate. This AD requires 
inspection and replacement of certain oxygen mask regulator harness 
inflation hoses. We are issuing this AD to address the unsafe condition 
on these products.

DATES: This AD is effective March 27, 2019.
    The Director of the Federal Register approved the incorporation by 
reference of a certain publication listed in this AD as of March 27, 
2019.

ADDRESSES: For service information identified in this final rule, 
contact Zodiac Aerotechnics, 61 rue Pierre Curie BP 1, 78373 Plaisir, 
CEDEX, France; phone: +33 1 6486 6964; email: 
Christophe.besset@zodiacaerospace.com or 
Yann.laine@zodiacaerospace.com. You may view this service information 
at the FAA, Engine & Propeller Standards Branch, 1200 District Avenue, 
Burlington, MA 01803. 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-2017-0505.

Examining the AD Docket

    You may examine the AD docket on the internet at https://www.regulations.gov by searching for and locating Docket No. FAA-2017-
0505; 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 mandatory continuing airworthiness information 
(MCAI), the regulatory evaluation, any comments received, and other 
information. The address for Docket Operations (phone: 800-647-5527) is 
U.S. Department of Transportation, Docket Operations, M-30, West 
Building Ground Floor, Room W12-140, 1200 New Jersey Avenue SE, 
Washington, DC 20590.

FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Erin King, Aerospace Engineer, Boston 
ACO Branch, FAA, 1200 District Avenue, Burlington, MA 01803; phone 781-
238-7655; fax: 781-238-7199; email: erin.king@faa.gov.

SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION:

Discussion

    We issued a notice of proposed rulemaking (NPRM) to amend 14 CFR 
part 39 by adding an AD that would apply to certain Zodiac oxygen mask 
regulators. The NPRM published in the Federal Register on September 25, 
2017 (82 FR 44539). The NPRM was prompted by reports that certain 
silicon harness inflation hoses installed on certain flight crew quick 
donning mask harnesses have shown an unusually high premature rupture 
rate. The NPRM proposed to require an inspection and replacement of 
oxygen mask regulator harness inflation hoses. We are issuing this AD 
to address the unsafe condition on these products.
    The European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA), which is the 
Technical Agent for the Member States of the European Community, has 
issued EASA AD 2014-0142, Revision 01, dated June 11, 2014 (referred to 
after this as ``the MCAI''), to address the unsafe condition on these 
products. The MCAI states:

    Recent reported occurrences have shown that for harness hoses P/
N 445952, installed on certain flight crew quick donning mask 
harnesses (also known as `comfort' harness) having P/N MXH21-1, 
suspected silicon batches may have been used during manufacture, 
which have shown an unusually high premature rupture rate. The 
affected P/N MXH21-1 inflatable harness assembly consists of two 
main parts that can be disassembled; the harness itself and the 
harness inflation hose, P/N 445952.
    This condition, if not detected and corrected, could lead, in 
case of a sudden depressurization event, to a harness rupture, 
thereby providing inadequate protection against hypoxia of the 
affected flight crew member, possibly resulting in unconsciousness 
and consequent reduced control of the aeroplane.

    You may obtain further information by examining the MCAI in the AD 
docket on the internet at https://www.regulations.gov by searching for 
and locating Docket No. FAA-2017-0505.

[[Page 4988]]

Comments

    We gave the public the opportunity to participate in developing 
this final rule. The following presents the comments received on the 
NPRM and the FAA's response to each comment.

Comment To Figure Reference in Service Information

    NetJets Aviation, Inc. (NetJets) commented that Accomplishment 
Instructions, paragraph 3.A.(1) of Zodiac Aerospace Service Bulletin 
(SB) MC10-35-274, Revision 02, dated June 25, 2014, references Figure 
3; however, there are only Figures 1 and 2 in this SB.
    We agree that Zodiac Aerospace SB MC10-35-274, Revision 02, dated 
June 25, 2014, references Figure 3 in error. The FAA, however, is not 
responsible for administrative errors in SBs. We did not change this 
AD.

Request To Revise Part for Installation Eligibility

    American Airlines (AA) requested that we revise the phrase in 
paragraph (h)(2) of the NPRM from ``inflatable harness assembly'' to 
``crew oxygen mask regulator.'' AA reasoned that paragraph 1.A.(1) of 
Zodiac Aerospace SB MC10-35-274, Revision 02, dated June 25, 2014, 
includes both the inflatable harness assembly part numbers (P/Ns) as 
well as the crew oxygen mask regulator P/Ns. The intent is to check the 
crew oxygen mask regulator for installation eligibility.
    We agree. We revised the paragraphs in this AD that refer to parts 
eligible for installation as the ``crew oxygen mask regulator.''

Request To Add Credit for Previous Actions Paragraph

    AA and NetJets requested that we add a Credit For Previous Actions 
paragraph to this AD. AA asked that we give credit for actions required 
by this AD if those actions were performed before the effective date of 
this AD using Zodiac Aerospace SB MC10-35-274, Revision 01, dated April 
18, 2014, or Original Issue, dated March 19, 2014. NetJets asked that 
in addition to the SBs mentioned above, we also give credit for using 
EASA AD 2014-0142, Revision 01, dated June 11, 2014, to accomplish the 
actions required by this AD. AA reasoned that EASA AD 2014-0142, 
Revision 01, dated June 11, 2014, allows for compliance with earlier 
revisions of the service information.
    We partially agree. We agree to give credit for accomplishing the 
required actions if operators used Zodiac Aerospace SB MC10-35-274, 
Revision 01, dated April 18, 2014, or Zodiac Aerospace SB MC10-35-274, 
Original Issue, dated March 19, 2014, because this meets the intended 
safety requirements of this AD. We added a Credit For Previous Actions 
paragraph to this AD.
    We disagree with revising the AD to allow for previous credit for 
performing EASA AD 2014-0142, Revision 01, dated June 11, 2014, because 
this is not necessary and is inconsistent with how we draft ADs.

Request To Clarify the Oxygen Mask Regulator Prohibition

    AA, NetJets, and United Airlines (United) requested clarification 
regarding the oxygen mask regulator prohibition in the Installation 
Prohibition paragraph of this AD. The commenters reasoned that 
paragraph (h)(1), as proposed in the NPRM, prohibited the installation 
of certain oxygen mask regulators; whereas, paragraphs (h)(2) and (3) 
in the NPRM describe criteria that allow installation. AA requested 
that we remove paragraph (h)(1) of this AD. NetJets requested 
clarification and possible rewording of paragraph (h)(1) of this AD. 
United suggested rewording and reformatting of paragraph (h)(1) of this 
AD.
    We partially agree. We agree that we need to clarify this AD to 
more clearly describe when a flight crew oxygen mask regulator is 
eligible for installation. We revised the Installation Prohibition 
paragraph by moving paragraphs (h)(2) and (3) into a Definition 
paragraph. We also revised paragraph (h)(1) of the NPRM, now paragraph 
(h) in the final rule, to allow the installation of certain oxygen mask 
regulators when they meet the criteria specified in paragraph (i)(1) of 
this AD.
    We disagree with removing paragraph (h)(1) from this AD (paragraph 
(h) in the final rule) because oxygen mask regulators with a P/N listed 
in Paragraph 1.A.(1) of Zodiac Aerospace SB MC10-35-274, Revision 02, 
dated June 25, 2014, cannot be installed unless they meet the criteria 
specified in paragraph (i), Definition, of this AD.

Request To Remove Hose Part Numbers

    United requested that we clarify references to specific harness 
inflation hose P/Ns in the Applicability paragraph, paragraph (c), and 
the Required Actions paragraph, specifically paragraphs (g)(2) and (3), 
of this AD. United noted that these P/Ns are not identified on the 
inflation harness assemblies after the hoses are installed on a crew 
oxygen mask assembly. United reasoned that although detailed shop 
records would likely itemize the hose P/Ns, they are unaware of any 
parts `data plate' or `data tag' on the inflation harness assemblies 
that identify the hose P/Ns after they are installed on a crew oxygen 
mask assembly.
    We partially agree. We agree that the hose P/Ns are not required in 
the Applicability paragraph of this AD. We revised the applicability, 
paragraph (c), of this AD by removing the references to the 
installation hose and its P/Ns.
    We disagree with removing the hose P/Ns from paragraphs (g)(2) and 
(3) of this AD. Although the commenter correctly points out that there 
is no data tag or data plate affixed to the hose, these P/Ns are useful 
to operators who can determine the hose P/N. Additionally, identifying 
the hose P/Ns in this AD is consistent with EASA AD 2014-0142, Revision 
01, dated June 11, 2014.

Request To Increase the Compliance Time

    United and AA requested, respectively, that we increase the 
compliance time from 24 months to 36 or to 48 months. The commenters 
reasoned that operators experienced supply issues when trying to comply 
with AD 2015-08-07 and many operators requested extensions to the 
compliance time. The supply situation was worsened because some oxygen 
mask regulator harnesses needed to be replaced because of illegible or 
non-existent part marking.
    We partially agree. We agree to increase the compliance time to 36 
months to ensure that suppliers can provide the parts because of the 
possibility there will be supply issues. Zodiac has not been able to 
determine inventory because they do not know the number of parts in use 
by U.S. operators. Increasing the compliance time by 12 months still 
meets the safety objectives of this AD. Our understanding from Zodiac 
is that they recommend hose replacement every 72 months, and given that 
all of the affected hoses were manufactured between 2008 and 2010, many 
of the affected hoses likely have been removed from service.
    We disagree with increasing the compliance time to 48 months 
because 36 months is sufficient to comply with the required actions of 
this AD. Additionally, we do not want to extend, beyond a reasonable 
time, the period for which suspect parts can remain on aircraft. We 
revised paragraph (g)(1) of this AD to increase the compliance time to 
36 months.

[[Page 4989]]

Request To Decrease the Compliance Time

    The Airline Pilots Association International (ALPA) requested that 
the compliance time decrease from 24 months to 12 months. ALPA reasoned 
that greater than 40 months have passed since EASA AD 2014-0142, 
Revision 01, dated June 11, 2014, became effective. ALPA also noted 
that the required time to comply with the AD is one work-hour. Based on 
these factors the compliance time of this AD should be decreased to 
minimize risk.
    We disagree. We note that operators may have difficulty obtaining 
replacement parts within a shortened compliance time. Also, the 
compliance time of 36 months after the effective date of this AD meets 
the safety objectives of this AD. We did not change this AD.

Request To Remove the P/Ns That Are Not Eligible for the ``W'' Marking

    AA and United requested that we remove the reference to inflatable 
harness assembly P/Ns that have been re-marked with a ``W'' from the 
Installation Prohibition, of this AD. The commenters reasoned that 
adding a ``W'' applies only to oxygen mask regulator assemblies that 
have inflation harness assemblies, P/N MXH21-31, installed per Zodiac 
Aerospace SB MA_B_C_F10-35-260, dated October 19, 2012, or later 
revisions.
    We agree. When an oxygen mask is modified per Zodiac SB MA_B_C_F10-
35-260 and marked with a ``W,'' the P/N also changes to MXH21-31. 
Therefore, only P/N MXH21-31 is marked with a ``W.'' Paragraph (h)(3) 
of the NPRM incorrectly implied that P/N MXH20-1 and P/N MXH21-1 might 
also be marked with a ``W.'' We revised this AD by removing the 
reference to remarking P/Ns MXH20-1 and MXH21-1 with a ``W.''

Request To Include Inflatable Harness Assemblies Marked With an ``I''

    AA requested that we include inflatable harness assembly marked 
with an ``I'' on the metal bushing to Required Actions, paragraph 
(g)(3), of this AD. AA reasoned that inflatable harness assemblies with 
an ``I'' on the metal bushings have been inspected and are not affected 
by this AD.
    We agree. Based on paragraph 2.E. of Zodiac SB MC10-35-274, 
Revision 02, dated June 25, 2014, marking an ``I'' on the metal bushing 
of the inflatable harness indicates accomplishment of the SB. We have 
revised paragraph (g)(3) of this AD to note that inflatable harness 
assemblies with metal bushings marked with an ``I'' are not affected by 
this AD.

Request To Delay the Installation Prohibition Start Time

    United requested that we add ``within 60 days of the effective date 
of this AD'' to the Installation Prohibition of this AD to provide more 
time before prohibiting the installation of the affected flight crew 
oxygen mask regulators. United reasoned that immediately restricting 
the installation of the affected regulators after the effective date of 
this AD is a logistical challenge and can be counterproductive. United 
is also concerned that material orders will be over abundantly placed 
to compensate for not knowing the modification status of their mask 
inventory. United believes that offsetting the start of a parts 
installation prohibition period would not significantly increase the 
risk.
    We disagree. Given the increased compliance time allowed in 
paragraph (g)(1) of this AD, operators should have time to assess their 
inventory and make accurate purchases to replace affected parts. It 
would not be in the interest of safety to allow the period for which 
suspect parts could remain on the aircraft to continue for any period 
after this AD is published. We did not change this AD.

Conclusion

    We reviewed the relevant data, considered the comments received, 
and determined that air safety and the public interest require adopting 
this final rule with the changes described previously and minor 
editorial changes. We have determined that these minor changes:
     [Agr]re consistent with the intent that was proposed in 
the NPRM for addressing the unsafe condition; and
     Do not add any additional burden upon the public than was 
already proposed in the NPRM.
    We also determined that these changes will not increase the 
economic burden on any operator or increase the scope of this final 
rule.

Related Service Information Under 1 CFR Part 51

    We reviewed Zodiac Aerospace SB MC10-35-274, Revision 02, dated 
June 25, 2014. The SB describes procedures for inspecting and 
replacing, if necessary, oxygen mask regulator inflatable harnesses. 
This service information is reasonably available because the interested 
parties have access to it through their normal course of business or by 
the means identified in the ADDRESSES section.

Costs of Compliance

    We estimate that this AD affects an unknown number of oxygen mask 
regulators installed on, but not limited to, various aircraft of U.S. 
registry.
    We estimate the following costs to comply with this AD:

                                                 Estimated Costs
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                                                     Cost per
                    Action                                 Labor cost               Parts cost        product
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Date of manufacturing code review.............  0.1 work-hours x $85 per hour =               $0           $8.50
                                                 $8.50.
Hose replacement..............................  0.3 work-hours x $85 per hour =         1,465.00        1,490.50
                                                 $25.50.
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

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

[[Page 4990]]

Division, but during this transition period, the Executive Director has 
delegated the authority to issue ADs applicable to engines, propellers, 
and associated appliances to the Manager, Engine and Propeller 
Standards Branch, Policy and Innovation Division.

Regulatory Findings

    This AD will not have federalism implications under Executive Order 
13132. This AD will not have a substantial direct effect on the States, 
on the relationship between the national government and the States, or 
on the distribution of power and responsibilities among the various 
levels of government.
    For the reasons discussed above, I certify 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):

2018-21-14 Zodiac Aerotechnics (formerly Intertechnique): Amendment 
39-19472; Docket No. FAA-2017-0505; Product Identifier 2017-NE-15-
AD.

(a) Effective Date

    This AD is effective March 27, 2019.

(b) Affected ADs

    None.

(c) Applicability

    This AD applies to Zodiac Aerotechnics (Zodiac) MC10 series crew 
oxygen mask regulators fitted with an inflatable harness assembly, 
part number (P/N) MXH20-1 or MXH21-1.

(d) Subject

    Joint Aircraft System Component (JASC) Code 3510, Crew Oxygen 
System.

(e) Unsafe Condition

    This AD was prompted by reports that certain silicon harness 
inflation hoses installed on certain flight crew quick donning mask 
harnesses (also known as `comfort' harness) have shown an unusually 
high premature rupture rate. We are issuing this AD to prevent a 
harness rupture during a sudden depressurization event. The unsafe 
condition, if not addressed, could result in hypoxia and subsequent 
unconsciousness of the affected flight crew member, and consequent 
reduced control of the aircraft.

(f) Compliance

    Comply with this AD within the compliance times specified, 
unless already done.

(g) Required Actions

    (1) Within 36 months after the effective date of this AD, 
determine the date of manufacturing (DMF) code of each inflatable 
harness assembly, P/N MXH20-1 and P/N MXH21-1, fitted to a flight 
crew oxygen mask regulator, having a P/N listed in Planning 
Information, paragraph 1.A.(1), of Zodiac Aerospace Service Bulletin 
(SB) MC10-35-274, Revision 02, dated June 25, 2014. A review of 
airplane delivery or maintenance records is acceptable to make the 
determination as specified in this paragraph, provided those records 
can be relied upon for that purpose, and the DMF of the inflatable 
harness assembly, P/N MXH20-1 or P/N MXH21-1, as applicable, can be 
conclusively identified from that review.
    (2) If during the review required by paragraph (g)(1) of this 
AD, the DMF code of the inflatable harness assembly, P/N MXH20-1 or 
P/N MXH21-1, is found to be between 0850-S and 1051-S (inclusive): 
Within 36 months after the effective date of this AD, replace the 
harness inflation hose, P/N 445186 or P/N 445952, as applicable, 
with a part eligible for installation, or remove the inflatable 
harness assembly from the mask regulator and replace it with an 
inflatable harness assembly eligible for installation.
    (3) An oxygen mask regulator equipped with an inflatable harness 
assembly, P/N MXH20-1 or P/N MXH21-1, having a DMF code of November 
2008 (0845-S or 08/45-S) or earlier, and those with a DMF code of 
January 2011 (1101-S or 11/01-S) or later, are excluded from the 
requirements of this AD, provided it can be demonstrated that 
neither the inflatable harness assembly, nor the harness inflation 
hose, P/N 445186 or P/N 445952, as applicable, was replaced on that 
mask. An oxygen mask regulator with an inflatable harness assembly, 
P/N MXH20-1 or P/N MXH21-1, and with an inflatatable harness 
assembly with a metal bushing that has been marked with an ``I'' is 
also excluded from the requirements of this AD. A review of airplane 
delivery or maintenance records is acceptable to make the 
determination, provided those records can be relied upon for that 
purpose.

(h) Installation Prohibition

    After the effective date of this AD, do not install on any 
airplane a flight crew oxygen mask regulator with a P/N listed in 
Planning Information, paragraph 1.A.(1), of Zodiac SB MC10-35-274, 
Revision 02, dated June 25, 2014, unless it meets the definition of 
a part eligible for installation in paragraph (i) of this AD.

(i) Definition

    (1) After the effective date of this AD, a part eligible for 
installation is a crew oxygen mask regulator with:
    (i) A P/N identified in Planning Information, paragraph 1.A.(1), 
of Zodiac Aerospace SB MC10-35-274, Revision 02, dated June 25, 
2014, provided it has been determined that a P/N MXH20-1 or P/N 
MXH21-1 inflatable harness installed on that crew oxygen mask 
regulator has been inspected, and re-marked with an ``I'' as 
required by Material Information, paragraph 2.E. of Zodiac Aerospace 
SB MC10-35-274, Revision 02, dated June 25, 2014; or
    (ii) a P/N identified in Planning Information, paragraph 
1.A.(1), of Zodiac Aerospace SB MC10-35-274, Revision 02, dated June 
25, 2014, provided it has been determined that an inflatable 
harness, P/N MXH21-31, is installed.
    (2) [Reserved]

(j) Credit for Previous Actions

    You may take credit for the inspection and replacement of the 
oxygen mask regulator harness inflation hose required by paragraphs 
(g)(1) and (2) of this AD, if you performed the inspection and 
replacement using the Accomplishment Instructions, paragraph 3, of 
Zodiac Aerospace SB MC10-35-274, Initial Issue, dated March 19, 
2014, or Revision 01, dated April 18, 2014.

(k) Alternative Methods of Compliance (AMOCs)

    (1) The Manager, FAA, Boston ACO Branch, Compliance and 
Airworthiness Division, has the authority to approve AMOCs 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 ACO Branch, 
send it to the attention of the person identified in paragraph 
(l)(1) of this AD. You may email your request to: ANE-AD-AMOC@faa.gov.
    (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.

(l) Related Information

    (1) For more information about this AD, contact Erin King, 
Aerospace Engineer, Boston ACO Branch, FAA, 1200 District Avenue, 
Burlington, MA 01803; phone 781-238-7655; fax: 781-238-7199; email: 
erin.king@faa.gov.

[[Page 4991]]

    (2) Refer to European Union Aviation Safety Agency AD 2014-0142, 
Revision 01, dated June 11, 2014, for more information. You may 
examine the EASA AD in the AD docket on the internet at https://www.regulations.gov by searching for and locating Docket No. FAA-
2017-0505.

(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) Zodiac Aerospace Service Bulletin MC10-35-274, Revision 02, 
dated June 25, 2014.
    (ii) [Reserved]
    (3) For service information identified in this AD, contact 
Zodiac Aerotechnics, 61 rue Pierre Curie BP 1, 78373 Plaisir, CEDEX, 
France; phone: +33 1 6486 6964; email: 
Christophe.besset@zodiacaerospace.com or 
Yann.laine@zodiacaerospace.com.
    (4) You may view this service information at FAA, Engine & 
Propeller Standards Branch, 1200 District Avenue, Burlington, MA 
01803. For information on the availability of this material at the 
FAA, call 781-238-7759.
    (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 Burlington, Massachusetts, on February 13, 2019.
Robert J. Ganley,
Manager, Engine and Propeller Standards Branch, Aircraft Certification 
Service.
[FR Doc. 2019-02748 Filed 2-19-19; 8:45 am]
 BILLING CODE 4910-13-P
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