Airworthiness Directives; Leonardo S.p.A. Helicopters, 14807-14809 [2020-05246]

Download as PDF Federal Register / Vol. 85, No. 51 / Monday, March 16, 2020 / Proposed Rules system would undermine investigative efforts and reveal the identities of witnesses, and potential witnesses, and confidential informants. (g) From subsection (e)(5) (Collection of Information) because with the collection of information for law enforcement purposes, it is impossible to determine in advance what information is accurate, relevant, timely, and complete. Compliance with subsection (e)(5) would preclude DHS agents from using their investigative training and exercise of good judgment to both conduct and report on investigations. (h) From subsection (e)(8) (Notice on Individuals) because compliance would interfere with DHS’s ability to obtain, serve, and issue subpoenas, warrants, and other law enforcement mechanisms that may be filed under seal and could result in disclosure of investigative techniques, procedures, and evidence. (i) From subsection (g) (Civil Remedies) to the extent that the system is exempt from other specific subsections of the Privacy Act. Jonathan R. Cantor, Acting Chief Privacy Officer, Department of Homeland Security. [FR Doc. 2020–04985 Filed 3–13–20; 8:45 am] BILLING CODE 9110–9B–P DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION Federal Aviation Administration 14 CFR Part 39 [Docket No. FAA–2020–0258; Product Identifier 2018–SW–002–AD] RIN 2120–AA64 Airworthiness Directives; Leonardo S.p.A. Helicopters Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), DOT. ACTION: Notice of proposed rulemaking (NPRM). AGENCY: The FAA proposes to adopt a new airworthiness directive (AD) for Leonardo S.p.A. Model AW169 helicopters. This proposed AD would require modifying the weight on wheels (WoW) support installation on the main landing gear (MLG). This proposed AD is prompted by a report that an inappropriately tightened WoW support could result in a rotation of the support and improper WoW switch performance. The actions of this proposed AD are intended to correct an unsafe condition on these products. DATES: The FAA must receive comments on this proposed AD by May 15, 2020. lotter on DSKBCFDHB2PROD with PROPOSALS SUMMARY: VerDate Sep<11>2014 17:35 Mar 13, 2020 Jkt 250001 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. ADDRESSES: 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– 0258; 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 Union Aviation Safety Agency (previously European Aviation Safety Agency) (EASA) AD, 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 proposed rule, contact Leonardo S.p.A. Helicopters, Emanuele Bufano, Head of Airworthiness, Viale G.Agusta 520, 21017 C. Costa di Samarate (Va) Italy; telephone +39–0331–225074; fax +39–0331–229046; or at https:// www.leonardocompany.com/en/home. 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: Matt Fuller, Senior Aviation Safety Engineer, Safety Management Section, Rotorcraft Standards Branch, FAA, 10101 Hillwood Pkwy., Fort Worth, TX 76177; telephone 817–222–5110; email matthew.fuller@faa.gov. SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: 14807 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 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 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. 2017– 0255, dated December 22, 2017, to correct an unsafe condition for Leonardo S.p.A Helicopters (formerly Finmeccanica Helicopter Division, AgustaWestland) Model AW169 helicopters, with left-hand (LH) MLG assembly part number (P/N) 6F3210V00132 or P/N 6F3210V00133 and serial number (S/N) MN01 to MN84 inclusive, and/or a right-hand (RH) MLG assembly P/N 6F3210V00232 or P/N 6F3210V00233 with S/N MN01 to MN81 inclusive installed, except those with an MLG modified per Magnaghi Aeronautica S.p.A. Service Bulletin SB– 07–2017–AW169. EASA advises that an in-service event revealed that an inappropriately tightened WoW support could result in a rotation of this support and improper WoW switch performance. EASA advises this condition, if not corrected, could result in degraded attitude stabilization, possibly resulting in reduced control of the helicopter. Accordingly, the EASA AD requires modification of the WoW support installation by introducing structural glue between the WoW support and the main fitting of the MLG. Comments Invited FAA’s Determination 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 might result from adopting the proposals in this document. The most helpful comments reference a specific portion of the proposal, explain the reason for any 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 about the unsafe condition described in its AD. The FAA is proposing this AD after evaluating all known relevant information and determining that an unsafe condition is PO 00000 Frm 00003 Fmt 4702 Sfmt 4702 E:\FR\FM\16MRP1.SGM 16MRP1 14808 Federal Register / Vol. 85, No. 51 / Monday, March 16, 2020 / Proposed Rules likely to exist or develop on other helicopters of the same type designs. Related Service Information Under 1 CFR Part 51 The FAA reviewed Leonardo Helicopters Alert Service Bulletin No. 169–047, Revision A, dated February 19, 2018, for Model AW169 helicopters. This service information specifies a WoW support bonding procedure on inservice helicopters by introducing structural glue between the WoW support P/N G1019/20–91 and the main fitting P/N G1019/20–MF 105 to prevent a potential rotation of the support. 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. Proposed AD Requirements This proposed AD would require, within 60 hours time-in-service (TIS), modifying the WoW support installation by: • Performing a short circuit connection between pin 26 of connector J343 and pin N of connector J319. • Cutting lockwire and disconnecting the WoW microswitch from the WoW support, removing from service nuts and bolts, and removing the WoW support from the MLG. • Removing any paint, cleaning areas, and applying Alodine 1132 on cleaned surfaces. • Applying a 10 mm wide strip of structural glue EA934 on the WoW support, reinstalling the WoW support on the MLG, adding a specified torque to the nut, and cleaning off excess glue. • Curing the glue on the structures, performing a microswitch adjustment inspection for correct operation of the microswitch, and marking the MLG nameplate by adding the letter ‘‘B’’ at the end of the S/N. After the effective date of the proposed AD, installing an affected LH or RH MLG assembly on any helicopter would be prohibited unless it has been modified in accordance with the proposed AD requirements. lotter on DSKBCFDHB2PROD with PROPOSALS Differences Between This Proposed AD and the EASA AD The EASA AD requires compliance within 60 hours TIS or 3 months, whichever occurs first, while this proposed AD would require compliance within 60 hours TIS. Costs of Compliance The FAA estimates that this AD affects 3 helicopters of U.S. Registry. The FAA estimates that operators may incur the following costs in order to VerDate Sep<11>2014 17:35 Mar 13, 2020 Jkt 250001 comply with this AD. Labor costs are estimated at $85 per work-hour. Performing the short circuit connection, removing the WoW support from the MLG, removing any paint and cleaning areas, applying Alodine and a 10mm strip of structural glue, curing the glue, torqueing the nut, performing a microswitch adjustment, and marking the MLG nameplate would take about 8 work-hours and parts would cost about $10 for an estimated cost of $690 per helicopter and $2,070 for the U.S. fleet. 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. PO 00000 Frm 00004 Fmt 4702 Sfmt 4702 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): ■ Leonardo S.p.A.: Docket No. FAA–2020– 0258; Product Identifier 2018–SW–002–AD. (a) Applicability This AD applies to Leonardo S.p.A. Model AW169 helicopters, certificated in any category, with left-hand (LH) main landing gear (MLG) assembly, part number (P/N) 6F3210V00132 or P/N 6F3210V00133, with serial number (S/N) MN01 through MN84 inclusive, or right-hand (RH) MLG assembly, P/N 6F3210V00232 or P/N 6F3210V00233, with S/N MN01 to MN81 inclusive, installed. This AD does not apply to helicopters with an MLG that has been modified in accordance with Magnaghi Aeronautica S.p.A. Service Bulletin No. SB–07–2017– AW169, Issue 5, dated November 22, 2017. This AD does not apply to MLG that have a ‘‘B’’ on the end of the serial number. (b) Unsafe Condition This AD defines the unsafe condition as an improperly tightened weight on wheels (WoW) support resulting in a rotation of the support and improper WoW switch performance, which if not corrected could lead to degraded attitude stabilization, and subsequent loss of control of the helicopter. (c) Comments Due Date The FAA must receive comments by May 15, 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 60 hours time-in-service, modify the WoW support installation as follows: (i) Perform a short circuit connection between pin 26 of connector J343 and pin N of connector J319. (ii) Cut the lockwire that locks the WoW microswitch and disconnect the WoW microswitch from the WoW support as depicted in Figure 1 of Leonardo Helicopters Alert Service Bulletin No. 169–047, Revision A, dated February 19, 2018 (ASB 169–047). (iii) Unscrew the nut and remove the washer and bolt. Remove from service the nut and bolt, but replace the washer. (iv) Remove the WoW support from the MLG and remove any paint and clean areas where indicated by Figure 2 in ASB 169–047. E:\FR\FM\16MRP1.SGM 16MRP1 Federal Register / Vol. 85, No. 51 / Monday, March 16, 2020 / Proposed Rules (v) Apply Alodine 1132 on cleaned areas of WoW support and landing gear strut leaving a 10 mm wide strip on the WoW support for structural glue EA934 application. (vi) Apply a 10 mm wide strip of structural glue EA934 on the WoW support and install the WoW support on the MLG using a nut, bolt, and washer. (vii) Torque the nut to 2.5 thru 3.5 Nm. Clean any excess glue and cure the glue on the structures for one hour at 60 °C/140 °F or eight days at room temperature (22 °C–26 °C/ 71.6 °F–78.8 °F). (viii) Apply liquid jointing compound AMS–S–8802 Type 2 Class B, or equivalent, to the bolt and nut, as depicted in Figure 3 of ASB 169–047 and perform a microswitch adjustment for correct operation of the microswitch. (ix) Mark the MLG nameplate by adding the letter ‘‘B’’ at the end of the S/N. (x) Remove the short circuit connection between pin 26 of connector J343 and pin N of connector J319 as performed in paragraph (e)(1)(i) of this AD. (2) After the effective date of this AD, do not install on any helicopter a LH or RH MLG assembly with a P/N and S/N listed in paragraph (a) of this AD unless it has been modified in accordance with the requirements of paragraph (e)(1) 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: Matt Fuller, Senior Aviation Safety Engineer, Safety Management Section, Rotorcraft Standards Branch, FAA, 10101 Hillwood Pkwy., Fort Worth, TX 76177; telephone 817–222–5110; email 9-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 The subject of this AD is addressed in European Union Aviation Safety Agency (previously European Aviation Safety Agency) (EASA) AD No. 2017–0255, dated December 22, 2017. You may view the EASA AD on the internet at https:// www.regulations.gov in the AD Docket. lotter on DSKBCFDHB2PROD with PROPOSALS (h) Subject Joint Aircraft Service Component (JASC) Code: 3200, Landing Gear System. Issued on March 10, 2020. Lance T. Gant, Director, Compliance & Airworthiness Division, Aircraft Certification Service. [FR Doc. 2020–05246 Filed 3–13–20; 8:45 am] BILLING CODE 4910–13–P VerDate Sep<11>2014 17:35 Mar 13, 2020 Jkt 250001 DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION Federal Aviation Administration 14 CFR Part 71 [Docket No. FAA–2020–0164; Airspace Docket No. 20–ASO–3] Proposed Amendment of Class D Airspace and Revocation of Class E Airspace; Bogue, NC Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), DOT. ACTION: Notice of proposed rulemaking (NPRM). AGENCY: This action proposes to amend Class D airspace by updating the geographic coordinates, and remove Class E airspace extending upward from 700 feet above the surface at Bogue Field Marine Corps Auxiliary Landing Field, (MCALF), Bogue, NC, at the request of the US Marine Corps. Class E airspace is no longer required, as there are no instrument approaches into Bogue Field MCALF. This action would also replace the outdated term Airport/ Facility Directory with term Chart Supplement in the legal description of associated Class D airspace. This action would enhance the safety and management of controlled airspace within the National Airspace System. DATES: Comments must be received on or before April 30, 2020. ADDRESSES: Send comments on this rule to: U.S. Department of Transportation, Docket Operations, 1200 New Jersey Avenue SE, West Building Ground Floor, Room W12–140, Washington, DC 20590; Telephone: (800) 647–5527, or (202) 366–9826. You must identify the Docket No. FAA–2020–0164; Airspace Docket No. 20–ASO–3, at the beginning of your comments. You may also submit comments through the internet at https://www.regulations.gov. You may review the public docket containing the proposal, any comments received, and any final disposition in person in the Dockets Office between 9:00 a.m. and 5:00 p.m., Monday through Friday, except federal holidays. FAA Order 7400.11D, Airspace Designations and Reporting Points, and subsequent amendments can be viewed on line 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 SUMMARY: PO 00000 Frm 00005 Fmt 4702 Sfmt 4702 14809 Order 7400.11D at NARA, email fedreg.legal@nara.gov or go to https:// www.archives.gov/federal-register/cfr/ ibr-locations.html. FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: John Fornito, Operations Support Group, Eastern Service Center, Federal Aviation Administration, 1701 Columbia Ave., 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 proposed rulemaking is promulgated under the authority described in Subtitle VII, part A, 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 would amend Class D airspace and remove Class E airspace extending upward from 700 feet above the surface at Bogue Field MCALF, Bogue, NC, due to the airspace no longer being necessary. Comments Invited Interested persons are invited to comment on this rule by submitting such written data, views, or arguments, as they may desire. Comments that provide the factual basis supporting the views and suggestions presented are particularly helpful in developing reasoned regulatory decisions on the proposal. Comments are specifically invited on the overall regulatory, aeronautical, economic, environmental, and energy-related aspects of the proposal. Communications should identify both docket numbers (FAA Docket No. FAA– 2020–0164 and Airspace Docket No. 20– ASO–3) and be submitted in triplicate to the DOT Docket Operations (see ‘‘ADDRESSES’’ section for address and phone number). You may also submit comments through the internet at https://www.regulations.gov. Persons wishing the FAA to acknowledge receipt of their comments on this action must submit with those comments a self-addressed stamped postcard on which the following statement is made: ‘‘Comments to FAA Docket No. FAA–2020–0164; Airspace Docket No. 20–ASO–3.’’ The postcard will be date/time stamped and returned to the commenter. E:\FR\FM\16MRP1.SGM 16MRP1

Agencies

[Federal Register Volume 85, Number 51 (Monday, March 16, 2020)]
[Proposed Rules]
[Pages 14807-14809]
From the Federal Register Online via the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]
[FR Doc No: 2020-05246]


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DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION

Federal Aviation Administration

14 CFR Part 39

[Docket No. FAA-2020-0258; Product Identifier 2018-SW-002-AD]
RIN 2120-AA64


Airworthiness Directives; Leonardo S.p.A. Helicopters

AGENCY: Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), DOT.

ACTION: Notice of proposed rulemaking (NPRM).

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

SUMMARY: The FAA proposes to adopt a new airworthiness directive (AD) 
for Leonardo S.p.A. Model AW169 helicopters. This proposed AD would 
require modifying the weight on wheels (WoW) support installation on 
the main landing gear (MLG). This proposed AD is prompted by a report 
that an inappropriately tightened WoW support could result in a 
rotation of the support and improper WoW switch performance. The 
actions of this proposed AD are intended to correct an unsafe condition 
on these products.

DATES: The FAA must receive comments on this proposed AD by May 15, 
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 and locating Docket No. FAA-2020-
0258; 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 Union Aviation Safety Agency (previously 
European Aviation Safety Agency) (EASA) AD, 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 proposed rule, contact 
Leonardo S.p.A. Helicopters, Emanuele Bufano, Head of Airworthiness, 
Viale G.Agusta 520, 21017 C. Costa di Samarate (Va) Italy; telephone 
+39-0331-225074; fax +39-0331-229046; or at https://www.leonardocompany.com/en/home. 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: Matt Fuller, Senior Aviation Safety 
Engineer, Safety Management Section, Rotorcraft Standards Branch, FAA, 
10101 Hillwood Pkwy., Fort Worth, TX 76177; telephone 817-222-5110; 
email [email protected].

SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION:

Comments Invited

    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 might result 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 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 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. 2017-0255, dated December 22, 
2017, to correct an unsafe condition for Leonardo S.p.A Helicopters 
(formerly Finmeccanica Helicopter Division, AgustaWestland) Model AW169 
helicopters, with left-hand (LH) MLG assembly part number (P/N) 
6F3210V00132 or P/N 6F3210V00133 and serial number (S/N) MN01 to MN84 
inclusive, and/or a right-hand (RH) MLG assembly P/N 6F3210V00232 or P/
N 6F3210V00233 with S/N MN01 to MN81 inclusive installed, except those 
with an MLG modified per Magnaghi Aeronautica S.p.A. Service Bulletin 
SB-07-2017-AW169.
    EASA advises that an in-service event revealed that an 
inappropriately tightened WoW support could result in a rotation of 
this support and improper WoW switch performance. EASA advises this 
condition, if not corrected, could result in degraded attitude 
stabilization, possibly resulting in reduced control of the helicopter. 
Accordingly, the EASA AD requires modification of the WoW support 
installation by introducing structural glue between the WoW support and 
the main fitting of the MLG.

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 about the 
unsafe condition described in its AD. The FAA is proposing this AD 
after evaluating all known relevant information and determining that an 
unsafe condition is

[[Page 14808]]

likely to exist or develop on other helicopters of the same type 
designs.

Related Service Information Under 1 CFR Part 51

    The FAA reviewed Leonardo Helicopters Alert Service Bulletin No. 
169-047, Revision A, dated February 19, 2018, for Model AW169 
helicopters. This service information specifies a WoW support bonding 
procedure on in-service helicopters by introducing structural glue 
between the WoW support P/N G1019/20-91 and the main fitting P/N G1019/
20-MF 105 to prevent a potential rotation of the support.
    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.

Proposed AD Requirements

    This proposed AD would require, within 60 hours time-in-service 
(TIS), modifying the WoW support installation by:
     Performing a short circuit connection between pin 26 of 
connector J343 and pin N of connector J319.
     Cutting lockwire and disconnecting the WoW microswitch 
from the WoW support, removing from service nuts and bolts, and 
removing the WoW support from the MLG.
     Removing any paint, cleaning areas, and applying Alodine 
1132 on cleaned surfaces.
     Applying a 10 mm wide strip of structural glue EA934 on 
the WoW support, reinstalling the WoW support on the MLG, adding a 
specified torque to the nut, and cleaning off excess glue.
     Curing the glue on the structures, performing a 
microswitch adjustment inspection for correct operation of the 
microswitch, and marking the MLG nameplate by adding the letter ``B'' 
at the end of the S/N.
    After the effective date of the proposed AD, installing an affected 
LH or RH MLG assembly on any helicopter would be prohibited unless it 
has been modified in accordance with the proposed AD requirements.

Differences Between This Proposed AD and the EASA AD

    The EASA AD requires compliance within 60 hours TIS or 3 months, 
whichever occurs first, while this proposed AD would require compliance 
within 60 hours TIS.

Costs of Compliance

    The FAA estimates that this AD affects 3 helicopters of U.S. 
Registry. The FAA estimates that operators may incur the following 
costs in order to comply with this AD. Labor costs are estimated at $85 
per work-hour.
    Performing the short circuit connection, removing the WoW support 
from the MLG, removing any paint and cleaning areas, applying Alodine 
and a 10mm strip of structural glue, curing the glue, torqueing the 
nut, performing a microswitch adjustment, and marking the MLG nameplate 
would take about 8 work-hours and parts would cost about $10 for an 
estimated cost of $690 per helicopter and $2,070 for the U.S. fleet.

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):

Leonardo S.p.A.: Docket No. FAA-2020-0258; Product Identifier 2018-
SW-002-AD.

(a) Applicability

    This AD applies to Leonardo S.p.A. Model AW169 helicopters, 
certificated in any category, with left-hand (LH) main landing gear 
(MLG) assembly, part number (P/N) 6F3210V00132 or P/N 6F3210V00133, 
with serial number (S/N) MN01 through MN84 inclusive, or right-hand 
(RH) MLG assembly, P/N 6F3210V00232 or P/N 6F3210V00233, with S/N 
MN01 to MN81 inclusive, installed. This AD does not apply to 
helicopters with an MLG that has been modified in accordance with 
Magnaghi Aeronautica S.p.A. Service Bulletin No. SB-07-2017-AW169, 
Issue 5, dated November 22, 2017. This AD does not apply to MLG that 
have a ``B'' on the end of the serial number.

(b) Unsafe Condition

    This AD defines the unsafe condition as an improperly tightened 
weight on wheels (WoW) support resulting in a rotation of the 
support and improper WoW switch performance, which if not corrected 
could lead to degraded attitude stabilization, and subsequent loss 
of control of the helicopter.

(c) Comments Due Date

    The FAA must receive comments by May 15, 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 60 hours time-in-service, modify the WoW support 
installation as follows:
    (i) Perform a short circuit connection between pin 26 of 
connector J343 and pin N of connector J319.
    (ii) Cut the lockwire that locks the WoW microswitch and 
disconnect the WoW microswitch from the WoW support as depicted in 
Figure 1 of Leonardo Helicopters Alert Service Bulletin No. 169-047, 
Revision A, dated February 19, 2018 (ASB 169-047).
    (iii) Unscrew the nut and remove the washer and bolt. Remove 
from service the nut and bolt, but replace the washer.
    (iv) Remove the WoW support from the MLG and remove any paint 
and clean areas where indicated by Figure 2 in ASB 169-047.

[[Page 14809]]

    (v) Apply Alodine 1132 on cleaned areas of WoW support and 
landing gear strut leaving a 10 mm wide strip on the WoW support for 
structural glue EA934 application.
    (vi) Apply a 10 mm wide strip of structural glue EA934 on the 
WoW support and install the WoW support on the MLG using a nut, 
bolt, and washer.
    (vii) Torque the nut to 2.5 thru 3.5 Nm. Clean any excess glue 
and cure the glue on the structures for one hour at 60 [deg]C/140 
[deg]F or eight days at room temperature (22 [deg]C-26 [deg]C/71.6 
[deg]F-78.8 [deg]F).
    (viii) Apply liquid jointing compound AMS-S-8802 Type 2 Class B, 
or equivalent, to the bolt and nut, as depicted in Figure 3 of ASB 
169-047 and perform a microswitch adjustment for correct operation 
of the microswitch.
    (ix) Mark the MLG nameplate by adding the letter ``B'' at the 
end of the S/N.
    (x) Remove the short circuit connection between pin 26 of 
connector J343 and pin N of connector J319 as performed in paragraph 
(e)(1)(i) of this AD.
    (2) After the effective date of this AD, do not install on any 
helicopter a LH or RH MLG assembly with a P/N and S/N listed in 
paragraph (a) of this AD unless it has been modified in accordance 
with the requirements of paragraph (e)(1) 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: 
Matt Fuller, Senior Aviation Safety Engineer, Safety Management 
Section, Rotorcraft Standards Branch, FAA, 10101 Hillwood Pkwy., 
Fort Worth, TX 76177; telephone 817-222-5110; email [email protected].
    (2) For operations conducted under a 14 CFR part 119 operating 
certificate or under 14 CFR part 91, subpart K, 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

    The subject of this AD is addressed in European Union Aviation 
Safety Agency (previously European Aviation Safety Agency) (EASA) AD 
No. 2017-0255, dated December 22, 2017. 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: 3200, Landing Gear 
System.

    Issued on March 10, 2020.
Lance T. Gant,
Director, Compliance & Airworthiness Division, Aircraft Certification 
Service.
[FR Doc. 2020-05246 Filed 3-13-20; 8:45 am]
 BILLING CODE 4910-13-P
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