Airworthiness Directives; Robinson Helicopter Company Helicopters, 32028-32030 [2019-14205]

Download as PDF 32028 § 3201.149 Federal Register / Vol. 84, No. 129 / Friday, July 5, 2019 / Rules and Regulations Wall coverings. Donald K. Bice, Deputy Assistant Secretary for Administration, U.S. Department of Agriculture. [FR Doc. 2019–14038 Filed 7–3–19; 8:45 am] Examining the AD Docket BILLING CODE 3410–93–P DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION Federal Aviation Administration 14 CFR Part 39 [Docket No. FAA–2019–0361; Product Identifier 2019–SW–015–AD; Amendment 39–19673; AD 2019–12–18] RIN 2120–AA64 Airworthiness Directives; Robinson Helicopter Company Helicopters Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), DOT. ACTION: Final rule; request for comments. AGENCY: The FAA is adopting a new airworthiness directive (AD) for Robinson Helicopter Company (Robinson) Model R44 II helicopters. This AD requires inspecting the engine air induction hose (hose) and replacing any hose that is not airworthy. This AD was prompted by multiple reports of separation between the outer and inner layers of the hoses. The FAA is issuing this AD to address the unsafe condition on these products. DATES: This AD is effective July 5, 2019. The FAA must receive comments on this AD by August 19, 2019. jbell on DSK3GLQ082PROD with RULES SUMMARY: VerDate Sep<11>2014 17:30 Jul 03, 2019 You may send comments, using the procedures found in 14 CFR 11.43 and 11.45, by any of the following methods: • Federal eRulemaking Portal: Go to https://www.regulations.gov. Follow the instructions for submitting comments. • Fax: 202–493–2251. • 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 final rule, contact Robinson Helicopter Company, 2901 Airport Drive, Torrance, CA 90505; phone 310– 539–0508; fax 310–539–5198; or at https://robinsonheli.com/robinson-r44service-bulletins/. You may view this service information at the FAA, Office of the Regional Counsel, Southwest Region, 10101 Hillwood Pkwy., Room 6N–321, Fort Worth, TX 76177. ADDRESSES: (a) Definition. Wall coverings are materials that are applied to walls using an adhesive. This category includes, but is not limited to, wallpaper, vinyl wall coverings, and wall fabrics. This category excludes all types of paints or coatings. (b) Minimum biobased content. The Federal preferred procurement product must have a minimum biobased content of at least 62 percent, which shall be based on the amount of qualifying biobased carbon in the product as a percent of the total organic carbon in the finished product. (c) Preference compliance date. No later than July 6, 2020, procuring agencies, in accordance with this part, will give a procurement preference for qualifying biobased wall coverings. By that date, Federal agencies responsible for drafting or reviewing specifications for products to be procured shall ensure that the relevant specifications require the use of biobased wall coverings. Jkt 247001 You may examine the AD docket on the internet at https:// www.regulations.gov by searching for and locating Docket No. FAA–2019– 0361; or in person at Docket Operations between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m., Monday through Friday, except Federal holidays. The AD docket contains this final rule, the regulatory evaluation, any comments received, and other information. The street address for Docket Operations is listed above. Comments will be available in the AD docket shortly after receipt. FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Roger Gretler, Aviation Safety Engineer, Los Angeles ACO Branch, Compliance & Airworthiness Division, FAA, 3960 Paramount Blvd., Lakewood, CA 90712; phone 562- 627–5251; email roger.gretler@faa.gov. SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: Discussion The FAA has received reports of separation between the outer and inner layers of the hose part number (P/N) A785–31. The FAA’s investigation shows that, to date, 12 hoses have been inspected and all 12 out of a suspect population of 100 exhibit this condition. The suspect population is traced to a specific manufacturing batch marked by code 1Q18. This condition, if not addressed, could result in blockage of PO 00000 Frm 00014 Fmt 4700 Sfmt 4700 air flow to the engine, engine stoppage, and subsequent loss of control of the helicopter. The FAA is issuing this AD to address the unsafe condition on these products. Record of Ex Parte Communication In preparation of AD actions such as notices of proposed rulemaking and immediately adopted final rules, it is the practice of the FAA to obtain technical information and information on operational and economic impacts from design approval holders and aircraft operators. The FAA discussed certain aspects of this AD by email and telephone with Robinson. A summary of the discussions can be found in the rulemaking docket. For information on locating the docket, see ‘‘Examining the AD Docket.’’ Related Service Information The FAA reviewed Robinson R44 Service Bulletin SB–97, dated April 11, 2019 (SB). The SB applies to Robinson Model R44 II helicopters serial numbers (S/N) 14248 through 14286, except 14269, and to any A785–31 hoses shipped as spares from May through November 2018. The SB specifies, within 1 flight hour or prior to further flight if engine roughness or power loss is, or has been encountered, visually inspecting the hose for separation, flexing the hose to listen for a crinkling sound, which is an indication of separation, and replacing any hose that shows indication of separation. The SB also specifies replacing or discarding all affected hoses by June 30, 2019. FAA’s Determination The FAA is issuing this AD because the FAA evaluated all the relevant information and determined the unsafe condition described previously is likely to exist or develop in other products of the same type design. AD Requirements This AD requires, for Robinson R44 II helicopters S/N 14248 through 14268 and 14270 through 14286 or with a hose P/N A785–31 installed after April 30, 2018, within 10 hours time-in-service (TIS), inspecting the inside of the hose for separation between the outer and inner layers, and flexing the hose in all directions while listening for a crinkling sound, which is an indication of separation. If there is any separation or a crinkling sound, this AD requires replacing the hose before further flight. If there is no separation and no crinkling sound, this AD requires replacing the hose within 50 hours TIS. Finally, after the effective date of this AD, installing on any helicopter a hose E:\FR\FM\05JYR1.SGM 05JYR1 Federal Register / Vol. 84, No. 129 / Friday, July 5, 2019 / Rules and Regulations P/N A785–31 marked with code 1Q18 is prohibited. Differences Between the AD and the Service Information The SB specifies corrective action within one flight hour or prior to further flight if engine roughness or power loss is, or has been, encountered. This AD requires corrective action within 10 hours TIS. The compliance times specified in this AD differ from the SB because the FAA determined 10 hours TIS is a reasonable amount of time to comply with the required corrective actions. The SB applies only to those serial-numbered helicopters with an affected hose installed, whereas this AD also applies to helicopters with a hose that has been replaced after April 30, 2018. jbell on DSK3GLQ082PROD with RULES Justification for Immediate Adoption and Determination of the Effective Date Section 553(b)(3) of the Administrative Procedure Act (APA) (5 U.S.C.) authorizes agencies to dispense with notice and comment procedures for rules when the agency, for ‘‘good cause,’’ finds that those procedures are ‘‘impracticable, unnecessary, or contrary to the public interest.’’ Under this section, an agency, upon finding good cause, may issue a final rule without seeking comment prior to the rulemaking. An unsafe condition exists that requires the immediate adoption of this AD without providing an opportunity for public comments prior to adoption. The FAA has found that the risk to the flying public justifies waiving notice and comment prior to adoption of this rule because corrective actions must be made within 10 hours TIS. Therefore, notice and opportunity for prior public comment are impracticable and contrary to public interest pursuant to 5 U.S.C. 553(b)(3)(B). In addition, for the reasons stated above, the FAA finds that good cause exists pursuant to 5 U.S.C. 553(d) for making this amendment effective in less than 30 days. Comments Invited This AD is a final rule that involves requirements affecting flight safety and was not preceded by notice and an opportunity for public comment. However, the FAA invites you to send any written data, views, or arguments about this final rule. Send your comments to an address listed under the ADDRESSES section. Include the docket number FAA–2019–0361 and Product Identifier 2019–SW–015–AD at the beginning of your comments. The FAA specifically invites comments on the overall regulatory, economic, VerDate Sep<11>2014 17:30 Jul 03, 2019 Jkt 247001 32029 environmental, and energy aspects of this final rule. The FAA will consider all comments received by the closing date and may amend this final rule because of those comments. The FAA will post all comments received, without change, to https:// www.regulations.gov, including any personal information you provide. The FAA will also post a report summarizing each substantive verbal contact received about this final rule. For the reasons discussed above, I certify that this AD: (1) Is not a ‘‘significant regulatory action’’ under Executive Order 12866, and (2) Will not affect intrastate aviation in Alaska. Costs of Compliance Adoption of the Amendment The FAA estimates that this AD may affect up to 88 helicopters of U.S. registry. The FAA estimates the following costs to comply with this AD. Labor costs are estimated at $85 per work-hour. Inspecting the hose takes about 0.5 work-hour and replacing it takes about 0.5 work-hour. Parts cost are about $134 per hose for an estimated cost of $219 per helicopter. According to Robinson’s service information, some of the costs of this AD may be covered under warranty, thereby reducing the cost impact on affected individuals. The FAA does not control warranty coverage for affected individuals. As a result, the FAA has included all costs in the cost estimate. Accordingly, under the authority delegated to me by the Administrator, the FAA amends 14 CFR part 39 as follows: 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. The FAA is issuing this rulemaking under the authority described in Subtitle VII, Part A, Subpart III, Section 44701: ‘‘General requirements.’’ Under that section, Congress charges the FAA with promoting safe flight of civil aircraft in air commerce by prescribing regulations for practices, methods, and procedures the Administrator finds necessary for safety in air commerce. This regulation is within the scope of that authority because it addresses an unsafe condition that is likely to exist or develop on products identified in this rulemaking action. Regulatory Findings 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. PO 00000 Frm 00015 Fmt 4700 Sfmt 4700 List of Subjects in 14 CFR Part 39 Air transportation, Aircraft, Aviation safety, Incorporation by reference, Safety. 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): ■ 2019–12–18 Robinson Helicopter Company: Amendment 39–19673; Docket No. FAA–2019–0361; Product Identifier 2019–SW–015–AD. (a) Effective Date This AD is effective July 5, 2019. (b) Affected ADs None. (c) Applicability This AD applies to Robinson Helicopter Company Model R44 II helicopters certificated in any category. (d) Subject Joint Aircraft System Component (JASC)/ Air Transport Association (ATA) of America Code: 7160, Engine Air Intake System. (e) Unsafe Condition This AD was prompted by a report of separation between the outer and inner layers of a hose. This condition, if not addressed, could result in blockage of air flow to the engine, engine stoppage, and subsequent loss of control of the helicopter. The FAA is issuing this AD to prevent the unsafe condition on these helicopters. (f) Compliance Comply with this AD within the compliance times specified, unless already done. (g) Required Actions (1) For helicopters with an engine air induction hose (hose) part number A785–31 installed after April 30, 2018 or helicopter serial numbers 14248 through 14268 and 14270 through 14286, within 10 hours timein-service (TIS): E:\FR\FM\05JYR1.SGM 05JYR1 32030 Federal Register / Vol. 84, No. 129 / Friday, July 5, 2019 / Rules and Regulations (i) Inspect the inside of the hose for separation between the outer and inner layers, and flex the hose in all directions while listening for a crinkling sound, which is an indication of separation. (ii) If there is any separation or a crinkling sound, replace the hose before further flight. (iii) If there is no separation and no crinkling sound, replace the hose within 50 hours TIS. (2) After the effective date of this AD, do not install on any helicopter a hose part number A785–31 marked with code 1Q18. (1) The Manager, Los Angeles ACO Branch, FAA, 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 certification office, send it to the attention of the person identified in paragraph (i)(1) of this AD. Information may be emailed to: 9ANM-LAACO-ACO-AMOC-Requests@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. (i) Related Information (1) For more information about this AD, contact Roger Gretler, Aviation Safety Engineer, Los Angeles ACO Branch, Compliance & Airworthiness Division, FAA, 3960 Paramount Blvd., Lakewood, CA 90712; phone 562–627–5251; email roger.gretler@ faa.gov. (2) For information about AMOCs, contact 9-ANM-LAACO-ACO-AMOC-Requests@ faa.gov. (3) For copies of the service information referenced in this AD, contact: Robinson Helicopter Company, 2901 Airport Drive, Torrance, CA 90505; phone 310–539–0508; fax 310–539–5198; or at https:// robinsonheli.com/robinson-r44-servicebulletins/. You may view this referenced service information at the FAA, Office of the Regional Counsel, Southwest Region, 10101 Hillwood Pkwy., Room 6N–321, Fort Worth, TX 76177. (j) Material Incorporated by Reference jbell on DSK3GLQ082PROD with RULES None. Issued in Fort Worth, Texas, on June 25, 2019. James A. Grigg, Acting Deputy Director for Regulatory Operations, Compliance & Airworthiness Division, Aircraft Certification Service. BILLING CODE 4910–13–P VerDate Sep<11>2014 17:30 Jul 03, 2019 Jkt 247001 Availability Federal Aviation Administration All SIAPs and Takeoff Minimums and ODPs are available online free of charge. Visit the National Flight Data Center online at nfdc.faa.gov to register. Additionally, individual SIAP and Takeoff Minimums and ODP copies may be obtained from the FAA Air Traffic Organization Service Area in which the affected airport is located. 14 CFR Part 97 [Docket No. 31259; Amdt. No. 3858] Standard Instrument Approach Procedures, and Takeoff Minimums and Obstacle Departure Procedures; Miscellaneous Amendments Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), DOT. ACTION: Final rule. AGENCY: (h) Alternative Methods of Compliance (AMOCs) [FR Doc. 2019–14205 Filed 7–3–19; 8:45 am] DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION This rule amends, suspends, or removes Standard Instrument Approach Procedures (SIAPs) and associated Takeoff Minimums and Obstacle Departure Procedures for operations at certain airports. These regulatory actions are needed because of the adoption of new or revised criteria, or because of changes occurring in the National Airspace System, such as the commissioning of new navigational facilities, adding new obstacles, or changing air traffic requirements. These changes are designed to provide for the safe and efficient use of the navigable airspace and to promote safe flight operations under instrument flight rules at the affected airports. DATES: This rule is effective July 5, 2019. The compliance date for each SIAP, associated Takeoff Minimums, and ODP is specified in the amendatory provisions. The incorporation by reference of certain publications listed in the regulations is approved by the Director of the Federal Register as of July 5, 2019. ADDRESSES: Availability of matter incorporated by reference in the amendment is as follows: SUMMARY: For Examination 1. U.S. Department of Transportation, Docket Ops-M30, 1200 New Jersey Avenue SE, West Bldg., Ground Floor, Washington, DC 20590–0001; 2. The FAA Air Traffic Organization Service Area in which the affected airport is located; 3. The office of Aeronautical Navigation Products, 6500 South MacArthur Blvd., Oklahoma City, OK 73169 or, 4. 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/code_of_federal_ regulations/ibr_locations.html. PO 00000 Frm 00016 Fmt 4700 Sfmt 4700 FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Thomas J. Nichols, Flight Procedures and Airspace Group, Flight Technologies and Procedures Division, Flight Standards Service, Federal Aviation Administration. Mailing Address: FAA Mike Monroney Aeronautical Center, Flight Procedures and Airspace Group, 6500 South MacArthur Blvd., Registry Bldg. 29 Room 104, Oklahoma City, OK 73125. Telephone: (405) 954–4164. This rule amends Title 14, Code of Federal Regulations, Part 97 (14 CFR part 97) by amending the referenced SIAPs. The complete regulatory description of each SIAP is listed on the appropriate FAA Form 8260, as modified by the National Flight Data Center (NFDC)/Permanent Notice to Airmen (P–NOTAM), and is incorporated by reference under 5 U.S.C. 552(a), 1 CFR part 51, and 14 CFR 97.20. The large number of SIAPs, their complex nature, and the need for a special format make their verbatim publication in the Federal Register expensive and impractical. Further, airmen do not use the regulatory text of the SIAPs, but refer to their graphic depiction on charts printed by publishers of aeronautical materials. Thus, the advantages of incorporation by reference are realized and publication of the complete description of each SIAP contained on FAA form documents is unnecessary. This amendment provides the affected CFR sections, and specifies the SIAPs and Takeoff Minimums and ODPs with their applicable effective dates. This amendment also identifies the airport and its location, the procedure and the amendment number. SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: Availability and Summary of Material Incorporated by Reference The material incorporated by reference is publicly available as listed in the ADDRESSES section. The material incorporated by reference describes SIAPs, Takeoff Minimums and ODPs as identified in the amendatory language for part 97 of this final rule. E:\FR\FM\05JYR1.SGM 05JYR1

Agencies

[Federal Register Volume 84, Number 129 (Friday, July 5, 2019)]
[Rules and Regulations]
[Pages 32028-32030]
From the Federal Register Online via the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]
[FR Doc No: 2019-14205]


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DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION

Federal Aviation Administration

14 CFR Part 39

[Docket No. FAA-2019-0361; Product Identifier 2019-SW-015-AD; Amendment 
39-19673; AD 2019-12-18]
RIN 2120-AA64


Airworthiness Directives; Robinson Helicopter Company Helicopters

AGENCY: Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), DOT.

ACTION: Final rule; request for comments.

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

SUMMARY: The FAA is adopting a new airworthiness directive (AD) for 
Robinson Helicopter Company (Robinson) Model R44 II helicopters. This 
AD requires inspecting the engine air induction hose (hose) and 
replacing any hose that is not airworthy. This AD was prompted by 
multiple reports of separation between the outer and inner layers of 
the hoses. The FAA is issuing this AD to address the unsafe condition 
on these products.

DATES: This AD is effective July 5, 2019.
    The FAA must receive comments on this AD by August 19, 2019.

ADDRESSES: You may send comments, using the procedures found in 14 CFR 
11.43 and 11.45, by any of the following methods:
     Federal eRulemaking Portal: Go to https://www.regulations.gov. Follow the instructions for submitting comments.
     Fax: 202-493-2251.
     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 final rule, contact 
Robinson Helicopter Company, 2901 Airport Drive, Torrance, CA 90505; 
phone 310-539-0508; fax 310-539-5198; or at https://robinsonheli.com/robinson-r44-service-bulletins/. You may view this service information 
at the FAA, Office of the Regional Counsel, Southwest Region, 10101 
Hillwood Pkwy., Room 6N-321, Fort Worth, TX 76177.

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-2019-
0361; or in person at Docket Operations between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m., 
Monday through Friday, except Federal holidays. The AD docket contains 
this final rule, the regulatory evaluation, any comments received, and 
other information. The street address for Docket Operations is listed 
above. Comments will be available in the AD docket shortly after 
receipt.

FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Roger Gretler, Aviation Safety 
Engineer, Los Angeles ACO Branch, Compliance & Airworthiness Division, 
FAA, 3960 Paramount Blvd., Lakewood, CA 90712; phone 562- 627-5251; 
email [email protected].

SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: 

Discussion

    The FAA has received reports of separation between the outer and 
inner layers of the hose part number (P/N) A785-31. The FAA's 
investigation shows that, to date, 12 hoses have been inspected and all 
12 out of a suspect population of 100 exhibit this condition. The 
suspect population is traced to a specific manufacturing batch marked 
by code 1Q18. This condition, if not addressed, could result in 
blockage of air flow to the engine, engine stoppage, and subsequent 
loss of control of the helicopter. The FAA is issuing this AD to 
address the unsafe condition on these products.

Record of Ex Parte Communication

    In preparation of AD actions such as notices of proposed rulemaking 
and immediately adopted final rules, it is the practice of the FAA to 
obtain technical information and information on operational and 
economic impacts from design approval holders and aircraft operators. 
The FAA discussed certain aspects of this AD by email and telephone 
with Robinson. A summary of the discussions can be found in the 
rulemaking docket. For information on locating the docket, see 
``Examining the AD Docket.''

Related Service Information

    The FAA reviewed Robinson R44 Service Bulletin SB-97, dated April 
11, 2019 (SB). The SB applies to Robinson Model R44 II helicopters 
serial numbers (S/N) 14248 through 14286, except 14269, and to any 
A785-31 hoses shipped as spares from May through November 2018. The SB 
specifies, within 1 flight hour or prior to further flight if engine 
roughness or power loss is, or has been encountered, visually 
inspecting the hose for separation, flexing the hose to listen for a 
crinkling sound, which is an indication of separation, and replacing 
any hose that shows indication of separation. The SB also specifies 
replacing or discarding all affected hoses by June 30, 2019.

FAA's Determination

    The FAA is issuing this AD because the FAA evaluated all the 
relevant information and determined the unsafe condition described 
previously is likely to exist or develop in other products of the same 
type design.

AD Requirements

    This AD requires, for Robinson R44 II helicopters S/N 14248 through 
14268 and 14270 through 14286 or with a hose P/N A785-31 installed 
after April 30, 2018, within 10 hours time-in-service (TIS), inspecting 
the inside of the hose for separation between the outer and inner 
layers, and flexing the hose in all directions while listening for a 
crinkling sound, which is an indication of separation. If there is any 
separation or a crinkling sound, this AD requires replacing the hose 
before further flight. If there is no separation and no crinkling 
sound, this AD requires replacing the hose within 50 hours TIS. 
Finally, after the effective date of this AD, installing on any 
helicopter a hose

[[Page 32029]]

P/N A785-31 marked with code 1Q18 is prohibited.

Differences Between the AD and the Service Information

    The SB specifies corrective action within one flight hour or prior 
to further flight if engine roughness or power loss is, or has been, 
encountered. This AD requires corrective action within 10 hours TIS. 
The compliance times specified in this AD differ from the SB because 
the FAA determined 10 hours TIS is a reasonable amount of time to 
comply with the required corrective actions. The SB applies only to 
those serial-numbered helicopters with an affected hose installed, 
whereas this AD also applies to helicopters with a hose that has been 
replaced after April 30, 2018.

Justification for Immediate Adoption and Determination of the Effective 
Date

    Section 553(b)(3) of the Administrative Procedure Act (APA) (5 
U.S.C.) authorizes agencies to dispense with notice and comment 
procedures for rules when the agency, for ``good cause,'' finds that 
those procedures are ``impracticable, unnecessary, or contrary to the 
public interest.'' Under this section, an agency, upon finding good 
cause, may issue a final rule without seeking comment prior to the 
rulemaking.
    An unsafe condition exists that requires the immediate adoption of 
this AD without providing an opportunity for public comments prior to 
adoption. The FAA has found that the risk to the flying public 
justifies waiving notice and comment prior to adoption of this rule 
because corrective actions must be made within 10 hours TIS. Therefore, 
notice and opportunity for prior public comment are impracticable and 
contrary to public interest pursuant to 5 U.S.C. 553(b)(3)(B). In 
addition, for the reasons stated above, the FAA finds that good cause 
exists pursuant to 5 U.S.C. 553(d) for making this amendment effective 
in less than 30 days.

Comments Invited

    This AD is a final rule that involves requirements affecting flight 
safety and was not preceded by notice and an opportunity for public 
comment. However, the FAA invites you to send any written data, views, 
or arguments about this final rule. Send your comments to an address 
listed under the ADDRESSES section. Include the docket number FAA-2019-
0361 and Product Identifier 2019-SW-015-AD at the beginning of your 
comments. The FAA specifically invites comments on the overall 
regulatory, economic, environmental, and energy aspects of this final 
rule. The FAA will consider all comments received by the closing date 
and may amend this final rule because of those comments.
    The FAA will post all comments received, without change, to https://www.regulations.gov, including any personal information you provide. 
The FAA will also post a report summarizing each substantive verbal 
contact received about this final rule.

Costs of Compliance

    The FAA estimates that this AD may affect up to 88 helicopters of 
U.S. registry. The FAA estimates the following costs to comply with 
this AD. Labor costs are estimated at $85 per work-hour. Inspecting the 
hose takes about 0.5 work-hour and replacing it takes about 0.5 work-
hour. Parts cost are about $134 per hose for an estimated cost of $219 
per helicopter.
    According to Robinson's service information, some of the costs of 
this AD may be covered under warranty, thereby reducing the cost impact 
on affected individuals. The FAA does not control warranty coverage for 
affected individuals. As a result, the FAA has included all costs in 
the cost estimate.

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.
    The FAA is issuing this rulemaking under the authority described in 
Subtitle VII, Part A, Subpart III, Section 44701: ``General 
requirements.'' Under that section, Congress charges the FAA with 
promoting safe flight of civil aircraft in air commerce by prescribing 
regulations for practices, methods, and procedures the Administrator 
finds necessary for safety in air commerce. This regulation is within 
the scope of that authority because it addresses an unsafe condition 
that is likely to exist or develop on products identified in this 
rulemaking action.

Regulatory Findings

    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, and
    (2) Will not affect intrastate aviation in Alaska.

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):

2019-12-18 Robinson Helicopter Company: Amendment 39-19673; Docket 
No. FAA-2019-0361; Product Identifier 2019-SW-015-AD.

(a) Effective Date

    This AD is effective July 5, 2019.

(b) Affected ADs

    None.

(c) Applicability

    This AD applies to Robinson Helicopter Company Model R44 II 
helicopters certificated in any category.

(d) Subject

    Joint Aircraft System Component (JASC)/Air Transport Association 
(ATA) of America Code: 7160, Engine Air Intake System.

(e) Unsafe Condition

    This AD was prompted by a report of separation between the outer 
and inner layers of a hose. This condition, if not addressed, could 
result in blockage of air flow to the engine, engine stoppage, and 
subsequent loss of control of the helicopter. The FAA is issuing 
this AD to prevent the unsafe condition on these helicopters.

(f) Compliance

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

(g) Required Actions

    (1) For helicopters with an engine air induction hose (hose) 
part number A785-31 installed after April 30, 2018 or helicopter 
serial numbers 14248 through 14268 and 14270 through 14286, within 
10 hours time-in-service (TIS):

[[Page 32030]]

    (i) Inspect the inside of the hose for separation between the 
outer and inner layers, and flex the hose in all directions while 
listening for a crinkling sound, which is an indication of 
separation.
    (ii) If there is any separation or a crinkling sound, replace 
the hose before further flight.
    (iii) If there is no separation and no crinkling sound, replace 
the hose within 50 hours TIS.
    (2) After the effective date of this AD, do not install on any 
helicopter a hose part number A785-31 marked with code 1Q18.

(h) Alternative Methods of Compliance (AMOCs)

    (1) The Manager, Los Angeles ACO Branch, FAA, 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 certification office, send it to the attention of 
the person identified in paragraph (i)(1) of this AD. Information 
may be emailed to: [email protected].
    (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.

(i) Related Information

    (1) For more information about this AD, contact Roger Gretler, 
Aviation Safety Engineer, Los Angeles ACO Branch, Compliance & 
Airworthiness Division, FAA, 3960 Paramount Blvd., Lakewood, CA 
90712; phone 562-627-5251; email [email protected].
    (2) For information about AMOCs, contact [email protected].
    (3) For copies of the service information referenced in this AD, 
contact: Robinson Helicopter Company, 2901 Airport Drive, Torrance, 
CA 90505; phone 310-539-0508; fax 310-539-5198; or at https://robinsonheli.com/robinson-r44-service-bulletins/. You may view this 
referenced service information at the FAA, Office of the Regional 
Counsel, Southwest Region, 10101 Hillwood Pkwy., Room 6N-321, Fort 
Worth, TX 76177.

(j) Material Incorporated by Reference

    None.

    Issued in Fort Worth, Texas, on June 25, 2019.
James A. Grigg,
Acting Deputy Director for Regulatory Operations, Compliance & 
Airworthiness Division, Aircraft Certification Service.
[FR Doc. 2019-14205 Filed 7-3-19; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE 4910-13-P

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