Airworthiness Directives; Airbus Helicopters, 7894-7897 [2020-02711]
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7894
Federal Register / Vol. 85, No. 29 / Wednesday, February 12, 2020 / Proposed Rules
III. Compliance With Executive Orders
12866, 13771, 12988, and 13132, the
Paperwork Reduction Act (44 U.S.C.,
Ch. 35), and the Regulatory Flexibility
Act (5 U.S.C. 601–612)
A. Executive Order 12866
The Office of Management and Budget
(OMB) has determined that this rule
does not constitute a significant
regulatory action for purposes of
Executive Order 12866 and is not a
major rule under the Congressional
Review Act, 5 U.S.C. 801, et seq.
B. Executive Order 13771
This proposed rule is expected to be
an Executive Order deregulatory action
with an annualized net savings of
$28,733 and a net present value of
$410,478, both in 2016 dollars.
This rule proposes to remove
§ 134.317, Return of the case file,
because it is no longer necessary. Case
files will now be transmitted
electronically to OHA from the Area
Office, eliminating the need to return
paper records by mail. This rule will
eliminate significant costs related to
packing, labeling, and shipping case
files from the transmitting Area Office
and returning those files by mail. OHA
receives and returns approximately 120
case files per fiscal year to the Area
Offices, for a total of 240 shipments.
Assuming it takes 45 minutes to prepare
the shipment, printing, and mailing the
files and that a GS–13 analyst performs
this work at a wage of $112,393 plus 30
percent for benefits, or $146,111 ($73
hourly), this would save the government
$13,140, annually. The cost of each
shipment is approximately $70, which
would save the government an
additional $16,800 for a total savings of
$29,940 per year, in current dollars.
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C. Executive Order 12988
This action meets applicable
standards set forth in section 3(a) and
3(b)(2) of Executive Order 12988, Civil
Justice Reform, to minimize litigation,
eliminate ambiguity, and reduce
burden. The action does not have
retroactive or preemptive effect.
D. Executive Order 13132
This rule does not have federalism
implications as defined in Executive
Order 13132. It will not have substantial
direct effects 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, as specified in the
Executive Order. As such, it does not
warrant the preparation of a Federalism
Assessment.
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E. Paperwork Reduction Act
§ 134.714 When must the Judge issue his
or her decision?
The SBA has determined that this
final rule does not impose additional
reporting or recordkeeping requirements
under the Paperwork Reduction Act, 44
U.S.C. chapter 35.
* * * The Judge’s decision is the
final agency decision and becomes
effective upon issuance.
F. Regulatory Flexibility Act
[FR Doc. 2020–02494 Filed 2–11–20; 8:45 am]
The Regulatory Flexibility Act (RFA)
requires administrative agencies to
consider the effect of their actions on
small entities, small non-profit
businesses, and small local
governments. Pursuant to the RFA,
when an agency issues a rule, the
agency must prepare an analysis that
describes whether the impact of the rule
will have a significant economic impact
on a substantial number of small
entities. If not, the RFA permits agencies
to certify to that effect. SBA believes
that the removal of § 134.317 will only
impact itself and that it will save SBA
the costs associated with mailing paper
files back and forth during the appeal
process. SBA therefore certifies that this
rule has ‘‘no significant impact upon a
substantial number of small entities’’
within the meaning of the RFA.
List of Subjects in 13 CFR Part 134
Administrative practice and
procedure, Claims, Equal employment
opportunity, Lawyers, Organizations
and functions (Government agencies).
Accordingly, for the reasons stated in
the preamble, SBA proposes to amend
13 CFR part 134 as follows:
PART 134—RULES OF PROCEDURE
GOVERNING CASES BEFORE THE
OFFICE OF HEARINGS AND APPEALS
1. The authority citation for part 134
continues to read as follows:
■
Authority: 5 U.S.C. 504; 15 U.S.C. 632,
634(b)(6), 634(i), 637(a), 648(l), 656(i), and
687(c); 38 U.S.C. 8127(f); E.O. 12549, 51 FR
6370, 3 CFR, 1986 Comp., p. 189.
Subpart J issued under 38 U.S.C.
8127(f)(8)(B).
Subpart K issued under 38 U.S.C.
8127(f)(8)(A).
Source: 61 FR 2683, Jan. 29, 1996, unless
otherwise noted.
§ 134.317
[Removed and Reserved]
2. Remove and reserve § 134.317.
3. Amend § 134.714 by adding a
sentence at the end of the section to
read as follows:
■
■
PO 00000
Jovita Carranza,
Administrator.
BILLING CODE P
DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION
Federal Aviation Administration
14 CFR Part 39
[Docket No. FAA–2020–0026; Product
Identifier 2018–SW–052–AD]
RIN 2120–AA64
Airworthiness Directives; Airbus
Helicopters
Federal Aviation
Administration (FAA), DOT.
ACTION: Notice of proposed rulemaking
(NPRM).
AGENCY:
The FAA proposes to adopt a
new airworthiness directive (AD) for
Airbus Helicopters Model AS332C,
AS332C1, AS332L, AS332L1, AS332L2,
and EC225LP helicopters. This
proposed AD would require revising the
Rotorcraft Flight Manual (RFM) for your
helicopter and either installing placards
or removing the hoist arm. This
proposed AD was prompted by a failure
of a right-hand (RH) side lateral sliding
plug door (sliding door) to jettison. The
actions of this proposed AD are
intended to address an unsafe condition
on these products.
DATES: The FAA must receive comments
on this proposed AD by March 13, 2020.
ADDRESSES: You may send comments by
any of the following methods:
• Federal eRulemaking Docket: Go to
https://www.regulations.gov. Follow the
online instructions for sending your
comments electronically.
• Fax: 202–493–2251.
• Mail: Send comments to the U.S.
Department of Transportation, Docket
Operations, M–30, West Building
Ground Floor, Room W12–140, 1200
New Jersey Avenue SE, Washington, DC
20590–0001.
• Hand Delivery: Deliver to the
‘‘Mail’’ address between 9 a.m. and 5
p.m., Monday through Friday, except
Federal holidays.
SUMMARY:
Examining the AD Docket
You may examine the AD docket on
the internet at https://
www.regulations.gov by searching for
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Federal Register / Vol. 85, No. 29 / Wednesday, February 12, 2020 / Proposed Rules
and locating Docket No. FAA–2020–
0026; or in person at Docket Operations
between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m., Monday
through Friday, except Federal holidays.
The AD docket contains this proposed
AD, the European Aviation Safety
Agency (EASA) AD, the economic
evaluation, any comments received, and
other information. The street address for
Docket Operations is listed above.
Comments will be available in the AD
docket shortly after receipt.
For service information identified in
this final rule, contact Airbus
Helicopters, 2701 N Forum Drive, Grand
Prairie, TX 75052; telephone 972–641–
0000 or 800–232–0323; fax 972–641–
3775; or at https://www.airbus.com/
helicopters/services/technicalsupport.html. You may view the
referenced service information at the
FAA, Office of the Regional Counsel,
Southwest Region, 10101 Hillwood
Pkwy., Room 6N–321, Fort Worth, TX
76177.
FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT:
Kristin Bradley, Aviation Safety
Engineer, Safety Management Section,
Rotorcraft Standards Branch, FAA,
10101 Hillwood Pkwy., Fort Worth, TX
76177; telephone 817–222–5110; email
kristin.bradley@faa.gov.
SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION:
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Comments Invited
The FAA invites you to participate in
this rulemaking by submitting written
comments, data, or views. The FAA also
invites comments relating to the
economic, environmental, energy, or
federalism impacts that resulted from
adopting the proposals in this
document. The most helpful comments
reference a specific portion of the
proposal, explain the reason for any
recommended change, and include
supporting data. To ensure the docket
does not contain duplicate comments,
commenters should send only one copy
of written comments, or if comments are
filed electronically, commenters should
submit them only one time.
The FAA will file in the docket all
comments received, as well as a report
summarizing each substantive public
contact with FAA personnel concerning
this proposed rulemaking. Before acting
on this proposal, the FAA will consider
all the comments received on or before
the closing date for comments. The FAA
will consider comments filed after the
comment period has closed if it is
possible to do so without incurring
expense or delay. The FAA may change
this proposal in light of the comments
received.
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Discussion
EASA, which is the Technical Agent
for the Member States of the European
Union, has issued EASA AD No. 2018–
0140–E, dated June 29, 2018 (EASA AD
2018–0140–E), to correct an unsafe
condition for Airbus Helicopters
(formerly Eurocopter, Eurocopter
France, Aerospatiale) Model AS 332 C,
AS 332 C1, AS 332 L, AS 332 L1, AS
332 L2, and EC 225 LP helicopters.
EASA advises that during a jettison test
of the RH side sliding door, the sliding
door became blocked between the hoist,
airframe, and access step. Interference
was identified between the hoist arm
and the sliding door median fitting
(reinforced bracket). EASA identifies the
reinforced bracket as Airbus Helicopter
modification (MOD) 0726841, which
was required by EASA AD No. 2015–
0167, dated August 12, 2015. EASA
states that this condition could prevent
jettisoning of the RH sliding door in an
emergency, subsequently obstructing
evacuation, and possibly resulting in
injury to occupants. To correct this
unsafe condition, EASA AD 2018–0140–
E requires removing the hoist arm, or
alternatively revising the applicable
RFM and installing placards to specify
using the normal door handle instead of
the jettison handle for the RH side
sliding door.
EASA states that Airbus Helicopters is
developing a modification to eliminate
the interference between the hoist arm
and the reinforced bracket. As a result,
EASA considers its AD an interim
action and states that further AD action
may follow.
FAA’s Determination
These helicopters have been approved
by EASA and are approved for operation
in the United States. Pursuant to the
FAA’s bilateral agreement with the
European Union, EASA has notified the
FAA of the unsafe condition described
in its AD. The FAA is issuing this AD
after evaluating all information
provided by EASA and determining the
unsafe condition exists and is likely to
exist or develop on other helicopters of
these same type designs.
Related Service Information Under 1
CFR Part 51
Airbus Helicopters has co-published
as one document Emergency Alert
Service Bulletin (EASB) No. 01.00.89,
Revision 1, dated June 28, 2018, for
Model AS332-series helicopters; No.
04A014, Revision 1, dated June 28,
2018, for Model EC225 helicopters; and
No. 01.00.52, Revision 1, dated June 28,
2018, for non-FAA type certificated
Model AS532 helicopters. EASB Nos.
PO 00000
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7895
01.00.89 and 04A014 are proposed for
incorporation by reference in this
proposed AD. EASB No. 01.00.52 is not
proposed for incorporation by reference
in this proposed AD. This service
information provides pages to add to the
emergency and normal procedures
sections of the RFM, and specifies either
removing the hoist arm or installing
placards that require using the normal
door handle instead of the jettison
handle for the RH side sliding door.
This service information further allows
installing the placards during each
installation of the hoist arm and
removing the placards with each
removal of the hoist arm.
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.
Other Related Service Information
Airbus Helicopters has issued Service
Bulletin (SB) No. AS332–52.00.43 for
Model AS332C, AS332C1, AS332L,
AS332L1, and AS332L2 helicopters and
SB No. EC225–52–008 for Model
EC225LP helicopters, both Revision 0
and dated June 23, 2015. This service
information contains procedures for
installing the reinforced bracket
identified as MOD 0726841.
Proposed AD Requirements
This proposed AD would require
revising the RFM for your helicopter by
adding emergency and normal
procedures and installing placards to
require using the normal door handle
instead of the jettison handle for the RH
side sliding door. Alternatively, this
proposed AD would allow removing the
hoist arm instead of installing the
placards.
Differences Between This Proposed AD
and the EASA AD
The EASA AD requires either
removing the hoist arm or prohibiting
use of the RH sliding door jettison
handle by revising the RFM and
installing placards. This proposed AD
would require revising the applicable
RFM for your helicopter regardless of
whether the hoist arm is removed.
Interim Action
The FAA considers this proposed AD
to be an interim action. The design
approval holder is currently developing
a modification that will address the
unsafe condition identified in this
proposed AD. Once this modification is
developed, approved, and available, the
FAA might consider additional
rulemaking.
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7896
Federal Register / Vol. 85, No. 29 / Wednesday, February 12, 2020 / Proposed Rules
Costs of Compliance
List of Subjects in 14 CFR Part 39
The FAA estimates that this proposed
AD would affect 36 helicopters of U.S.
Registry. Labor costs are estimated at
$85 per work-hour. Based on these
numbers, the FAA estimates the
following costs to comply with this
proposed AD.
Revising the RFM for your helicopter
would take about 1 work-hour for an
estimated cost of $85 per helicopter or
$3,060 for the U.S. fleet.
Installing the placards would take
about 1 work-hour for an estimated cost
of $85 per helicopter or $3,060 for the
U.S. fleet. Alternatively, removing the
hoist arm would take about 1 work-hour
for an estimated cost of $85 per
helicopter.
Air transportation, Aircraft, Aviation
safety, Incorporation by reference,
Safety.
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.
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Regulatory Findings
The FAA determined that this
proposed AD would not have federalism
implications under Executive Order
13132. This proposed AD would not
have a substantial direct effect on the
States, on the relationship between the
national Government and the States, or
on the distribution of power and
responsibilities among the various
levels of government.
For the reasons discussed, I certify
this proposed regulation:
(1) Is not a ‘‘significant regulatory
action’’ under Executive Order 12866,
(2) Will not affect intrastate aviation
in Alaska, and
(3) 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.
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The Proposed Amendment
Accordingly, under the authority
delegated to me by the Administrator,
the FAA proposes to amend 14 CFR part
39 as follows:
PART 39—AIRWORTHINESS
DIRECTIVES
1. The authority citation for part 39
continues to read as follows:
■
Authority: 49 U.S.C. 106(g), 40113, 44701.
§ 39.13
[Amended]
2. The FAA amends § 39.13 by adding
the following new airworthiness
directive (AD):
■
Airbus Helicopters: Docket No. FAA–2020–
0026; Product Identifier 2018–SW–052–
AD.
(a) Applicability
This AD applies to Airbus Helicopters
Model AS332C, AS332C1, AS332L,
AS332L1, AS332L2, and EC225LP
helicopters, certificated in any category, with
a hoist arm and with right-hand (RH) side
lateral sliding plug door (sliding door)
reinforced bracket modification (MOD)
0726841 installed.
Note 1 to paragraph (a) of this AD: Airbus
Helicopters reinforced bracket MOD 0726841
may also be identified as sliding door median
fitting reinforcement MOD 07.26841.
(b) Unsafe Condition
This AD defines the unsafe condition as
interference between the hoist arm and the
reinforced bracket resulting in failure of the
sliding door to jettison. This condition could
prevent helicopter occupants from
evacuating the helicopter during an
emergency.
(c) Comments Due Date
The FAA must receive comments by March
13, 2020.
(d) Compliance
You are responsible for performing each
action required by this AD within the
specified compliance time unless it has
already been accomplished prior to that time.
(e) Required Actions
(1) Within 10 hours time-in-service:
(i) Revise the Rotorcraft Flight Manual for
your helicopter by inserting the Emergency
Procedures page and the Normal Procedures
page applicable to your helicopter model and
configuration from Appendix 4.C. Flight
Manual of Airbus Helicopters Emergency
Alert Service Bulletin (EASB) No. 01.00.89,
Revision 1, dated June 28, 2018 (EASB
01.00.89), or Airbus Helicopters EASB No.
04A014, Revision 1, dated June 28, 2018
(EASB 04A014). Inserting a different
document with information identical to that
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in Appendix 4.C. Flight Manual of EASB
01.00.89 or EASB 04A014 is acceptable for
compliance with the requirements of this
paragraph.
(ii) Cover existing placards for each RH
sliding door in accordance with Appendix
4.B. Masking Tapes and Labels (RH lateral
sliding door) of EASB 01.00.89 or EASB
04A014.
(iii) Install new placards in accordance
with Appendix 4.A. Labels and Appendix
4.B. Masking Tapes and Labels (RH lateral
sliding door) of EASB 01.00.89 or EASB
04A014.
(2) After complying with paragraph (e)(1)
of this AD, each time the hoist arm is
removed from the helicopter, you may
remove the markings and placards that are
required by paragraphs (e)(1)(ii) and (iii) of
this AD. Before the hoist arm is re-installed,
you must re-install the markings and
placards that are required by paragraphs
(e)(1)(ii) and (iii) of this AD.
(f) Alternative Methods of Compliance
(AMOCs)
(1) The Manager, Safety Management
Section, Rotorcraft Standards Branch, FAA,
may approve AMOCs for this AD. Send your
proposal to: Kristin Bradley, Aviation Safety
Engineer, Safety Management Section,
Rotorcraft Standards Branch, FAA, 10101
Hillwood Pkwy., Fort Worth, TX 76177;
telephone 817–222–5110; email 9-ASW-FTWAMOC-Requests@faa.gov.
(2) For operations conducted under a 14
CFR part 119 operating certificate or under
14 CFR part 91, subpart K, the FAA suggests
that you notify your principal inspector, or
lacking a principal inspector, the manager of
the local flight standards district office or
certificate holding district office, before
operating any aircraft complying with this
AD through an AMOC.
(g) Additional Information
(1) Airbus Helicopters Service Bulletin
(SB) No. AS332–52.00.43 and SB No. EC225–
52–008, both Revision 0 and dated June 23,
2015, which are not incorporated by
reference, contain additional information
about the subject of this AD. For service
information identified in this AD, contact
Airbus Helicopters, 2701 N Forum Drive,
Grand Prairie, TX 75052; telephone 972–641–
0000 or 800–232–0323; fax 972–641–3775; or
at https://www.airbus.com/helicopters/
services/technical-support.html. You may
view a copy of the service information at the
FAA, Office of the Regional Counsel,
Southwest Region, 10101 Hillwood Pkwy.,
Room 6N–321, Fort Worth, TX 76177.
(2) The subject of this AD is addressed in
European Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) AD
No. 2018–0140–E, dated June 29, 2018. You
may view the EASA AD on the internet at
https://www.regulations.gov in the AD
Docket.
(h) Subject
Joint Aircraft Service Component (JASC)
Code: 5200, Doors.
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Federal Register / Vol. 85, No. 29 / Wednesday, February 12, 2020 / Proposed Rules
Issued in Fort Worth, Texas, on February
4, 2020.
Lance T. Gant,
Director, Compliance & Airworthiness
Division, Aircraft Certification Service.
[FR Doc. 2020–02711 Filed 2–11–20; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE 4910–13–P
DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION
Federal Aviation Administration
14 CFR Part 39
[Docket No. FAA–2020–0090; Product
Identifier 2019–NM–196–AD]
RIN 2120–AA64
Airworthiness Directives; 328 Support
Services GmbH (Type Certificate
Previously Held by AvCraft Aerospace
GmbH; Fairchild Dornier GmbH;
Dornier Luftfahrt GmbH) Airplanes
Federal Aviation
Administration (FAA), DOT.
ACTION: Notice of proposed rulemaking
(NPRM).
AGENCY:
The FAA proposes to adopt a
new airworthiness directive (AD) for all
328 Support Services GmbH Model
328–300 airplanes. This proposed AD
was prompted by a determination that
new or more restrictive airworthiness
limitations are necessary. This proposed
AD would require revising the existing
maintenance or inspection program, as
applicable, to incorporate new or more
restrictive airworthiness limitations, as
specified in a European Union Aviation
Safety Agency (EASA) AD, which will
be incorporated by reference. The FAA
is proposing this AD to address the
unsafe condition on these products.
DATES: The FAA must receive comments
on this proposed AD by March 30, 2020.
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: Deliver to Mail
address above between 9 a.m. and 5
p.m., Monday through Friday, except
Federal holidays.
For the material identified in this
proposed AD that will be incorporated
by reference (IBR), contact the EASA,
Konrad-Adenauer-Ufer 3, 50668
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SUMMARY:
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Cologne, Germany; phone: +49 221
89990 1000; email: ADs@
easa.europa.eu; internet:
www.easa.europa.eu. You may find this
IBR material on the EASA website at
https://ad.easa.europa.eu. You may
view this IBR material at the FAA,
Transport Standards Branch, 2200
South 216th St., Des Moines, WA. For
information on the availability of this
material at the FAA, call 206–231–3195.
It is also available in the AD docket on
the internet at https://
www.regulations.gov by searching for
and locating Docket No. FAA–2020–
0090.
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–2020–
0090; 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 NPRM, 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:
Todd Thompson, Aerospace Engineer,
International Section, Transport
Standards Branch, FAA, 2200 South
216th St., Des Moines, WA 98198;
phone and fax: 206–231–3228; email:
todd.thompson@faa.gov.
SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION:
Comments Invited
The FAA invites you to send any
written relevant data, views, or
arguments about this proposal. Send
your comments to an address listed
under the ADDRESSES section. Include
‘‘Docket No. FAA–2020–0090; Product
Identifier 2019–NM–196–AD’’ at the
beginning of your comments. The FAA
specifically invites comments on the
overall regulatory, economic,
environmental, and energy aspects of
this NPRM. The FAA will consider all
comments received by the closing date
and may amend this NPRM based on
those comments.
The FAA will post all comments,
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 the agency receives about this
NPRM.
Discussion
The EASA, which is the Technical
Agent for the Member States of the
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7897
European Union, has issued EASA AD
2019–0271, dated October 30, 2019
(‘‘EASA AD 2019–0271’’) (also referred
to as the Mandatory Continuing
Airworthiness Information, or ‘‘the
MCAI’’), to correct an unsafe condition
for all 328 Support Services GmbH
Model 328–300 airplanes.
This proposed AD was prompted by
a determination that new or more
restrictive airworthiness limitations are
necessary. The FAA is proposing this
AD to address the potential failure of
parts, which could lead to reduced
control of the airplane; and to address
the potential of ignition sources inside
fuel tanks, which, in combination with
flammable fuel vapors, could result in
fuel tank explosions and consequent
loss of the airplane. See the MCAI for
additional background information.
Relationship Between This Proposed
AD and Certain Other ADs
This NPRM would not supersede AD
2009–01–06 R1, Amendment 39–16082
(74 FR 57411, November 6, 2009) (‘‘AD
2009–01–06 R1’’) and AD 2012–01–08,
Amendment 39–16290 (77 FR 3583,
January 25, 2012) (‘‘AD 2012–01–08’’).
Rather, the FAA has determined that a
stand-alone AD would be more
appropriate to address the changes in
the MCAI. AD 2009–01–06 R1 requires
modifying the electrical wiring of the
fuel pumps by installing insulation at
the flow control and shut-off valves, and
other components of the environmental
control system; and revising the existing
maintenance or inspection program, as
applicable, to incorporate new
inspections of the fuel tank system. AD
2012–01–08 requires revising the
existing maintenance or inspection
program, as applicable, to incorporate
new or more restrictive airworthiness
limitations. This NPRM would require
revising the existing maintenance or
inspection program, as applicable, to
incorporate new or more restrictive
airworthiness limitations.
Accomplishment of the proposed
actions would then terminate all
requirements of AD 2009–01–06 R1, and
all requirements of AD 2012–01–08 for
Model 328–300 airplanes only.
Related IBR Material Under 1 CFR Part
51
EASA AD 2019–0271 describes
airworthiness limitations for
certification maintenance requirements
that include, among other items, safe
life limits and fuel tank system
limitations.
This material is reasonably available
because the interested parties have
access to it through their normal course
E:\FR\FM\12FEP1.SGM
12FEP1
]]>Agencies
[Federal Register Volume 85, Number 29 (Wednesday, February 12, 2020)]
[Proposed Rules]
[Pages 7894-7897]
From the Federal Register Online via the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]
[FR Doc No: 2020-02711]
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DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION
Federal Aviation Administration
14 CFR Part 39
[Docket No. FAA-2020-0026; Product Identifier 2018-SW-052-AD]
RIN 2120-AA64
Airworthiness Directives; Airbus Helicopters
AGENCY: Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), DOT.
ACTION: Notice of proposed rulemaking (NPRM).
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SUMMARY: The FAA proposes to adopt a new airworthiness directive (AD)
for Airbus Helicopters Model AS332C, AS332C1, AS332L, AS332L1, AS332L2,
and EC225LP helicopters. This proposed AD would require revising the
Rotorcraft Flight Manual (RFM) for your helicopter and either
installing placards or removing the hoist arm. This proposed AD was
prompted by a failure of a right-hand (RH) side lateral sliding plug
door (sliding door) to jettison. The actions of this proposed AD are
intended to address an unsafe condition on these products.
DATES: The FAA must receive comments on this proposed AD by March 13,
2020.
ADDRESSES: You may send comments by any of the following methods:
Federal eRulemaking Docket: Go to https://www.regulations.gov. Follow the online instructions for sending your
comments electronically.
Fax: 202-493-2251.
Mail: Send comments to the U.S. Department of
Transportation, Docket Operations, M-30, West Building Ground Floor,
Room W12-140, 1200 New Jersey Avenue SE, Washington, DC 20590-0001.
Hand Delivery: Deliver to the ``Mail'' address between 9
a.m. and 5 p.m., Monday through Friday, except Federal holidays.
Examining the AD Docket
You may examine the AD docket on the internet at https://www.regulations.gov by searching for
[[Page 7895]]
and locating Docket No. FAA-2020-0026; or in person at Docket
Operations between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m., Monday through Friday, except
Federal holidays. The AD docket contains this proposed AD, the European
Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) AD, the economic evaluation, any comments
received, and other information. The street address for Docket
Operations is listed above. Comments will be available in the AD docket
shortly after receipt.
For service information identified in this final rule, contact
Airbus Helicopters, 2701 N Forum Drive, Grand Prairie, TX 75052;
telephone 972-641-0000 or 800-232-0323; fax 972-641-3775; or at https://www.airbus.com/helicopters/services/technical-support.html. You may
view the referenced service information at the FAA, Office of the
Regional Counsel, Southwest Region, 10101 Hillwood Pkwy., Room 6N-321,
Fort Worth, TX 76177.
FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Kristin Bradley, Aviation Safety
Engineer, Safety Management Section, Rotorcraft Standards Branch, FAA,
10101 Hillwood Pkwy., Fort Worth, TX 76177; telephone 817-222-5110;
email [email protected].
SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION:
Comments Invited
The FAA invites you to participate in this rulemaking by submitting
written comments, data, or views. The FAA also invites comments
relating to the economic, environmental, energy, or federalism impacts
that resulted from adopting the proposals in this document. The most
helpful comments reference a specific portion of the proposal, explain
the reason for any recommended change, and include supporting data. To
ensure the docket does not contain duplicate comments, commenters
should send only one copy of written comments, or if comments are filed
electronically, commenters should submit them only one time.
The FAA will file in the docket all comments received, as well as a
report summarizing each substantive public contact with FAA personnel
concerning this proposed rulemaking. Before acting on this proposal,
the FAA will consider all the comments received on or before the
closing date for comments. The FAA will consider comments filed after
the comment period has closed if it is possible to do so without
incurring expense or delay. The FAA may change this proposal in light
of the comments received.
Discussion
EASA, which is the Technical Agent for the Member States of the
European Union, has issued EASA AD No. 2018-0140-E, dated June 29, 2018
(EASA AD 2018-0140-E), to correct an unsafe condition for Airbus
Helicopters (formerly Eurocopter, Eurocopter France, Aerospatiale)
Model AS 332 C, AS 332 C1, AS 332 L, AS 332 L1, AS 332 L2, and EC 225
LP helicopters. EASA advises that during a jettison test of the RH side
sliding door, the sliding door became blocked between the hoist,
airframe, and access step. Interference was identified between the
hoist arm and the sliding door median fitting (reinforced bracket).
EASA identifies the reinforced bracket as Airbus Helicopter
modification (MOD) 0726841, which was required by EASA AD No. 2015-
0167, dated August 12, 2015. EASA states that this condition could
prevent jettisoning of the RH sliding door in an emergency,
subsequently obstructing evacuation, and possibly resulting in injury
to occupants. To correct this unsafe condition, EASA AD 2018-0140-E
requires removing the hoist arm, or alternatively revising the
applicable RFM and installing placards to specify using the normal door
handle instead of the jettison handle for the RH side sliding door.
EASA states that Airbus Helicopters is developing a modification to
eliminate the interference between the hoist arm and the reinforced
bracket. As a result, EASA considers its AD an interim action and
states that further AD action may follow.
FAA's Determination
These helicopters have been approved by EASA and are approved for
operation in the United States. Pursuant to the FAA's bilateral
agreement with the European Union, EASA has notified the FAA of the
unsafe condition described in its AD. The FAA is issuing this AD after
evaluating all information provided by EASA and determining the unsafe
condition exists and is likely to exist or develop on other helicopters
of these same type designs.
Related Service Information Under 1 CFR Part 51
Airbus Helicopters has co-published as one document Emergency Alert
Service Bulletin (EASB) No. 01.00.89, Revision 1, dated June 28, 2018,
for Model AS332-series helicopters; No. 04A014, Revision 1, dated June
28, 2018, for Model EC225 helicopters; and No. 01.00.52, Revision 1,
dated June 28, 2018, for non-FAA type certificated Model AS532
helicopters. EASB Nos. 01.00.89 and 04A014 are proposed for
incorporation by reference in this proposed AD. EASB No. 01.00.52 is
not proposed for incorporation by reference in this proposed AD. This
service information provides pages to add to the emergency and normal
procedures sections of the RFM, and specifies either removing the hoist
arm or installing placards that require using the normal door handle
instead of the jettison handle for the RH side sliding door. This
service information further allows installing the placards during each
installation of the hoist arm and removing the placards with each
removal of the hoist arm.
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.
Other Related Service Information
Airbus Helicopters has issued Service Bulletin (SB) No. AS332-
52.00.43 for Model AS332C, AS332C1, AS332L, AS332L1, and AS332L2
helicopters and SB No. EC225-52-008 for Model EC225LP helicopters, both
Revision 0 and dated June 23, 2015. This service information contains
procedures for installing the reinforced bracket identified as MOD
0726841.
Proposed AD Requirements
This proposed AD would require revising the RFM for your helicopter
by adding emergency and normal procedures and installing placards to
require using the normal door handle instead of the jettison handle for
the RH side sliding door. Alternatively, this proposed AD would allow
removing the hoist arm instead of installing the placards.
Differences Between This Proposed AD and the EASA AD
The EASA AD requires either removing the hoist arm or prohibiting
use of the RH sliding door jettison handle by revising the RFM and
installing placards. This proposed AD would require revising the
applicable RFM for your helicopter regardless of whether the hoist arm
is removed.
Interim Action
The FAA considers this proposed AD to be an interim action. The
design approval holder is currently developing a modification that will
address the unsafe condition identified in this proposed AD. Once this
modification is developed, approved, and available, the FAA might
consider additional rulemaking.
[[Page 7896]]
Costs of Compliance
The FAA estimates that this proposed AD would affect 36 helicopters
of U.S. Registry. Labor costs are estimated at $85 per work-hour. Based
on these numbers, the FAA estimates the following costs to comply with
this proposed AD.
Revising the RFM for your helicopter would take about 1 work-hour
for an estimated cost of $85 per helicopter or $3,060 for the U.S.
fleet.
Installing the placards would take about 1 work-hour for an
estimated cost of $85 per helicopter or $3,060 for the U.S. fleet.
Alternatively, removing the hoist arm would take about 1 work-hour for
an estimated cost of $85 per helicopter.
Authority for This Rulemaking
Title 49 of the United States Code specifies the FAA's authority to
issue rules on aviation safety. Subtitle I, section 106, describes the
authority of the FAA Administrator. Subtitle VII: Aviation Programs,
describes in more detail the scope of the Agency's authority.
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
The FAA determined that this proposed AD would not have federalism
implications under Executive Order 13132. This proposed AD would not
have a substantial direct effect on the States, on the relationship
between the national Government and the States, or on the distribution
of power and responsibilities among the various levels of government.
For the reasons discussed, I certify this proposed regulation:
(1) Is not a ``significant regulatory action'' under Executive
Order 12866,
(2) Will not affect intrastate aviation in Alaska, and
(3) 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.
The Proposed Amendment
Accordingly, under the authority delegated to me by the
Administrator, the FAA proposes to amend 14 CFR part 39 as follows:
PART 39--AIRWORTHINESS DIRECTIVES
0
1. The authority citation for part 39 continues to read as follows:
Authority: 49 U.S.C. 106(g), 40113, 44701.
Sec. 39.13 [Amended]
0
2. The FAA amends Sec. 39.13 by adding the following new airworthiness
directive (AD):
Airbus Helicopters: Docket No. FAA-2020-0026; Product Identifier
2018-SW-052-AD.
(a) Applicability
This AD applies to Airbus Helicopters Model AS332C, AS332C1,
AS332L, AS332L1, AS332L2, and EC225LP helicopters, certificated in
any category, with a hoist arm and with right-hand (RH) side lateral
sliding plug door (sliding door) reinforced bracket modification
(MOD) 0726841 installed.
Note 1 to paragraph (a) of this AD: Airbus Helicopters
reinforced bracket MOD 0726841 may also be identified as sliding
door median fitting reinforcement MOD 07.26841.
(b) Unsafe Condition
This AD defines the unsafe condition as interference between the
hoist arm and the reinforced bracket resulting in failure of the
sliding door to jettison. This condition could prevent helicopter
occupants from evacuating the helicopter during an emergency.
(c) Comments Due Date
The FAA must receive comments by March 13, 2020.
(d) Compliance
You are responsible for performing each action required by this
AD within the specified compliance time unless it has already been
accomplished prior to that time.
(e) Required Actions
(1) Within 10 hours time-in-service:
(i) Revise the Rotorcraft Flight Manual for your helicopter by
inserting the Emergency Procedures page and the Normal Procedures
page applicable to your helicopter model and configuration from
Appendix 4.C. Flight Manual of Airbus Helicopters Emergency Alert
Service Bulletin (EASB) No. 01.00.89, Revision 1, dated June 28,
2018 (EASB 01.00.89), or Airbus Helicopters EASB No. 04A014,
Revision 1, dated June 28, 2018 (EASB 04A014). Inserting a different
document with information identical to that in Appendix 4.C. Flight
Manual of EASB 01.00.89 or EASB 04A014 is acceptable for compliance
with the requirements of this paragraph.
(ii) Cover existing placards for each RH sliding door in
accordance with Appendix 4.B. Masking Tapes and Labels (RH lateral
sliding door) of EASB 01.00.89 or EASB 04A014.
(iii) Install new placards in accordance with Appendix 4.A.
Labels and Appendix 4.B. Masking Tapes and Labels (RH lateral
sliding door) of EASB 01.00.89 or EASB 04A014.
(2) After complying with paragraph (e)(1) of this AD, each time
the hoist arm is removed from the helicopter, you may remove the
markings and placards that are required by paragraphs (e)(1)(ii) and
(iii) of this AD. Before the hoist arm is re-installed, you must re-
install the markings and placards that are required by paragraphs
(e)(1)(ii) and (iii) of this AD.
(f) Alternative Methods of Compliance (AMOCs)
(1) The Manager, Safety Management Section, Rotorcraft Standards
Branch, FAA, may approve AMOCs for this AD. Send your proposal to:
Kristin Bradley, Aviation Safety Engineer, Safety Management
Section, Rotorcraft Standards Branch, FAA, 10101 Hillwood Pkwy.,
Fort Worth, TX 76177; telephone 817-222-5110; email [email protected].
(2) For operations conducted under a 14 CFR part 119 operating
certificate or under 14 CFR part 91, subpart K, the FAA suggests
that you notify your principal inspector, or lacking a principal
inspector, the manager of the local flight standards district office
or certificate holding district office, before operating any
aircraft complying with this AD through an AMOC.
(g) Additional Information
(1) Airbus Helicopters Service Bulletin (SB) No. AS332-52.00.43
and SB No. EC225-52-008, both Revision 0 and dated June 23, 2015,
which are not incorporated by reference, contain additional
information about the subject of this AD. For service information
identified in this AD, contact Airbus Helicopters, 2701 N Forum
Drive, Grand Prairie, TX 75052; telephone 972-641-0000 or 800-232-
0323; fax 972-641-3775; or at https://www.airbus.com/helicopters/services/technical-support.html. You may view a copy of the service
information at the FAA, Office of the Regional Counsel, Southwest
Region, 10101 Hillwood Pkwy., Room 6N-321, Fort Worth, TX 76177.
(2) The subject of this AD is addressed in European Aviation
Safety Agency (EASA) AD No. 2018-0140-E, dated June 29, 2018. You
may view the EASA AD on the internet at https://www.regulations.gov
in the AD Docket.
(h) Subject
Joint Aircraft Service Component (JASC) Code: 5200, Doors.
[[Page 7897]]
Issued in Fort Worth, Texas, on February 4, 2020.
Lance T. Gant,
Director, Compliance & Airworthiness Division, Aircraft Certification
Service.
[FR Doc. 2020-02711 Filed 2-11-20; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE 4910-13-P
