Airworthiness Directives; Airbus Helicopters Deutschland GmbH Helicopters, 23492-23495 [2020-08902]

Download as PDF 23492 Federal Register / Vol. 85, No. 82 / Tuesday, April 28, 2020 / Proposed Rules (i) Parts Installation Prohibition DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION Do not install on any helicopter an affected part, and do not upload any SW identified as ‘‘pre-modification SW’’ in Figure 1 to paragraphs (g)(1), (h), and (i) of this AD, or earlier SW version, on any AMC, as required by paragraph (i)(1) or (2) of this AD, as applicable. (1) For Group 1: After modification of that helicopter as specified in paragraph (h) of this AD. (2) For Group 2: As of the effective date of this AD. (1) The Manager, Safety Management Section, Rotorcraft Standards Branch, FAA, may approve AMOCs for this AD. Send your proposal to: George Schwab, 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, 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. (k) Related Information (1) The subject of this AD is addressed in European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) AD No. 2019–0208, dated August 22, 2019. This EASA AD may be found in the AD docket on the internet at https:// www.regulations.gov by searching for and locating Docket No. FAA–2020–0342. (2) 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 this service information at the FAA, Office of the Regional Counsel, Southwest Region, 10101 Hillwood Pkwy, Room 6N–321, Fort Worth, TX 76177. [FR Doc. 2020–08976 Filed 4–27–20; 8:45 am] jbell on DSKJLSW7X2PROD with PROPOSALS BILLING CODE 4910–13–P 14 CFR Part 39 [Docket No. FAA–2015–3941; Product Identifier 2015–SW–052–AD] RIN 2120–AA64 Airworthiness Directives; Airbus Helicopters Deutschland GmbH Helicopters Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), DOT. ACTION: Supplemental notice of proposed rulemaking (SNPRM); reopening of comment period. AGENCY: (j) Alternative Methods of Compliance (AMOCs) Issued on April 23, 2020. Gaetano A. Sciortino, Deputy Director for Strategic Initiatives, Compliance & Airworthiness Division, Aircraft Certification Service. Federal Aviation Administration The FAA is revising an earlier proposal for Airbus Helicopters Deutschland GmbH (Airbus Helicopters) Model MBB–BK 117A–3, MBB–BK 117A–4, MBB–BK 117B–1, MBB–BK 117B–2, and MBB–BK 117C–1 helicopters. This action revises the notice of proposed rulemaking (NPRM) by expanding the applicability and proposing to add requirements to replace certain seals with newly certified seals and revise the Rotorcraft Flight Manual (RFM) for your helicopter. The FAA is proposing this airworthiness directive (AD) to address the unsafe condition on these products. Since these actions would impose an additional burden over those in the NPRM, the FAA is reopening the comment period to allow the public the chance to comment on these changes. DATES: The comment period for the NPRM published in the Federal Register on May 5, 2016 (81 FR 27057), is reopened. The FAA must receive comments on this SNPRM by June 12, 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 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 VerDate Sep<11>2014 17:22 Apr 27, 2020 Jkt 250001 PO 00000 Frm 00006 Fmt 4702 Sfmt 4702 and locating Docket No. FAA–2015– 3941; 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 SNPRM, 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 SNPRM, 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. 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: FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: 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–2015–3941; Product Identifier 2015–SW–052–AD’’ at the beginning of your comments. The FAA specifically invites comments on the overall regulatory, economic, environmental, and energy aspects of this SNPRM. The FAA will consider all comments received by the closing date and may amend this SNPRM based on 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 SNPRM. Discussion The FAA issued an NPRM to amend 14 CFR part 39 by adding an AD that would apply to Airbus Helicopters Model MBB–BK 117A–3, MBB–BK 117A–4, MBB–BK 117B–1, MBB–BK 117B–2, and MBB–BK 117C–1 helicopters with adhesive seal part number (P/N) 117–800201.01 installed E:\FR\FM\28APP1.SGM 28APP1 Federal Register / Vol. 85, No. 82 / Tuesday, April 28, 2020 / Proposed Rules jbell on DSKJLSW7X2PROD with PROPOSALS on an exterior or interior sliding door. The NPRM published in the Federal Register on May 5, 2016 (81 FR 27057). The NPRM was prompted by reports that the adhesive seal prevented the doors from jettisoning properly. The NPRM proposed to require removing this part-numbered adhesive seal from the exterior and interior of each sliding door. The NPRM also proposed to prohibit the installation of this partnumbered adhesive seal on any helicopter sliding door. EASA, which is the aviation authority for the Member States of the European Union, had issued EASA AD No. 2015– 0163, dated August 6, 2015 (EASA AD 2015–0163), to correct an unsafe condition for Airbus Helicopters Model MBB–BK 117A–3, MBB–BK 117A–4, MBB–BK 117B–1, MBB–BK 117B–2, and MBB–BK 117C–1 helicopters. EASA advised that difficulties were reported regarding the jettisoning of doors. The malfunction was caused by the adhesive seal, which hampered the free movement of the inner handle. According to EASA, a subsequent investigation showed that the adhesive seal has mechanical and physical properties that do not meet relevant certification requirements. EASA stated that this condition, if not detected and corrected, could lead to a malfunction of the door’s jettisoning mechanism, reducing or preventing the evacuation of the helicopter during an emergency, possibly resulting in injury to occupants. To address this condition, EASA AD 2015–0163 required inspecting the exterior and interior door jettisoning system on the left and right sliding doors for adhesive seal P/N 117– 800201.01 and removing those adhesive seals. Actions Since the NPRM Was Issued Since the FAA issued the NPRM, a new adhesive seal P/N has become available and the related service information has been revised to provide installation instructions for this new seal and instruction to use a revised flight manual with preflight check information for the new seal. EASA also revised its AD to EASA AD No. 2015– 0163R1, dated April 27, 2016, to include a reference to the installation of the new adhesive seals. Accordingly, this SNPRM expands the applicability to include all Airbus Helicopters Model MBB–BK 117A–3, MBB–BK 117A–4, MBB–BK 117B–1, MBB–BK 117B–2, and MBB–BK 117C– 1 helicopters and proposes to require installation of the new adhesive seals and revise the RFM for your helicopter. Additionally, since the NPRM was issued, the website address for Airbus VerDate Sep<11>2014 17:22 Apr 27, 2020 Jkt 250001 Helicopters has changed. This website address has been updated in this SNPRM. Lastly, since the NPRM was issued, the FAA’s Aircraft Certification Service has changed its organization structure. The new structure replaces product directorates with functional divisions. The FAA has revised some of the office titles and nomenclature throughout this proposed AD to reflect the new organizational changes. Information about the new structure can be found in the Notice published on July 25, 2017 (82 FR 34564). Comments The FAA gave the public the opportunity to participate in developing this proposed AD. The FAA received no comments on the NPRM or on the determination of the cost to the public. FAA’s Determination The FAA is proposing this SNPRM after evaluating all known relevant information and determining that an unsafe condition is likely to exist or develop on other helicopters of these same type designs. Certain changes described above expand the scope of the original NPRM. As a result, the FAA has determined that it is necessary to reopen the comment period to provide additional opportunity for the public to comment on this SNPRM. Related Service Information Under 1 CFR Part 51 The FAA reviewed Airbus Helicopters Deutschland GmbH Helicopters Alert Service Bulletin MBB–BK117–20A–114, Revision 2, dated March 30, 2016, for Model MBB–BK 117A–3, MBB–BK 117A–4, MBB–BK 117B–1, MBB–BK 117B–2, and MBB–BK 117C–1 helicopters. This service information describes procedures for cleaning and degreasing the seal installation areas and installing adhesive seal P/N 117– 800201.02. This service information also specifies flight manual revisions with preflight check information for this new seal. The FAA reviewed MBB Helicopters Flight Manual MBB–BK117 A–3, Revision 17.1, MBB Helicopters Flight Manual MBB–BK117 A–4, Revision 16.1, MBB Helicopters Flight Manual MBB–BK117 B–1, Revision 20.1, Eurocopter Flight Manual BK117 B–2, Revision 21.2, and Eurocopter Flight Manual BK117 C–1, Revision 30.1, each dated March 25, 2015. This revision of the service information adds preflight check procedures for ‘‘Jettisonable sliding door installed, after ASB– BK117–20A–114’’ in the Normal Procedures section, Preflight Exterior Check, under both ‘‘Fuselage—right PO 00000 Frm 00007 Fmt 4702 Sfmt 4702 23493 side’’ and ‘‘Fuselage—left side’’ of the RFM for your helicopter. 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 Requirements of the SNPRM If adhesive seal P/N 117–800201.01 is installed, this proposed AD would require, within 25 hours time-in-service, removing each adhesive seal from the interior and exterior of each sliding door. For all helicopters, this proposed AD would require cleaning and degreasing the seal installation areas and installing adhesive seal P/N 117– 800201.02. This proposed AD would also require revising the Normal Procedures section, Preflight Exterior Check, under both ‘‘Fuselage—right side’’ and ‘‘Fuselage—left side’’ of the RFM for your helicopter to check the condition of the exterior and interior seals. This proposed AD would also prohibit the installation of adhesive seal P/N 117–800201.01 on any helicopter sliding door. Differences Between This SNPRM and the EASA AD The EASA AD does not mandate the installation of the new adhesive seals, whereas this proposed AD would. Model MBB–BK 117 B–2 serial number 7203 is affected by the EASA AD, but it is not affected by this SNPRM because it is ineligible for U.S. registration. Costs of Compliance The FAA estimates that this proposed AD affects 45 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. If installed, removing adhesive seals P/N 117–800201.01 would take about 0.5 work-hour for an estimated cost of about $43 per helicopter. Installing new seals and revising the RFM for your helicopter would take about 1 workhour and a set of new seals (4 units) would cost about $5 for an estimated cost of $90 per helicopter and $4,050 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. E:\FR\FM\28APP1.SGM 28APP1 Federal Register / Vol. 85, No. 82 / Tuesday, April 28, 2020 / Proposed Rules 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 above, 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, jbell on DSKJLSW7X2PROD with PROPOSALS (2) After the effective date of this AD, do not install adhesive seal P/N 117–800201.01 on any helicopter door. (f) Alternative Methods of Compliance (AMOCs) (1) The Manager, Safety Management Group, 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 VerDate Sep<11>2014 17:22 Apr 27, 2020 Jkt 250001 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 Deutschland GmbH: Docket No. FAA–2015–3941; Product Identifier 2015–SW–052–AD. (a) Applicability This AD applies to Airbus Helicopters Deutschland GmbH Model MBB–BK 117A–3, MBB–BK 117A–4, MBB–BK 117B–1, MBB– BK 117B–2, and MBB–BK 117C–1 helicopters, certificated in any category. (b) Unsafe Condition This AD defines the unsafe condition as the presence of sealant on a sliding door (door). This condition could result in the door failing to jettison, preventing helicopter occupants from exiting the helicopter during an emergency. (c) Comments Due Date The FAA must receive comments by June 12, 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 25 hours time-in-service after the effective date of this AD: (i) For helicopters with adhesive seal part number (P/N) 117–800201.01 installed on an exterior or interior door, remove adhesive seal P/N 117–800201.01 from the interior and exterior of each door, remove any adhesive Worth, TX 76177; telephone 817–222–5110; email 9-ASW-FTW-AMOC-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. PO 00000 Frm 00008 Fmt 4702 Sfmt 4702 using solvent (CM 202 or equivalent) and remove any grease using methyl ethyl ketone (CM 217 or equivalent), and install adhesive seal P/N 117–800201.02. Refer to Figures 1 through 4 of Airbus Helicopters Alert Service Bulletin MBB–BK117–20A–114, Revision 2, dated March 30, 2016 (ASB MBB–BK117– 20A–114) for a depiction of the seal installation areas. (ii) For helicopters without adhesive seal P/N 117–800201.01 installed, clean the seal installation areas using solvent (CM 202 or equivalent), remove any grease using methyl ethyl ketone (CM 217 or equivalent), and install adhesive seal P/N 117–800201.02. Refer to Figures 1 through 4 of ASB MBB– BK117–20A–114 for a depiction of the seal installation areas. (iii) Revise the Normal Procedures section, Preflight Exterior Check, under both ‘‘Fuselage—right side’’ and ‘‘Fuselage—left side’’ of the Rotorcraft Flight Manual for your helicopter by adding the information in Figure 1 to paragraph (e)(1)(iii) of this AD or by adding the information for ‘‘Jettisonable sliding door installed, after ASB–BK117– 20A–114’’ of the following as applicable for your helicopter: MBB Helicopters Flight Manual MBB–BK117 A–3, Revision 17.1, MBB Helicopters Flight Manual MBB–BK117 A–4, Revision 16.1, MBB Helicopters Flight Manual MBB–BK117 B–1, Revision 20.1, Eurocopter Flight Manual BK117 B–2, Revision 21.2, or Eurocopter Flight Manual BK117 C–1, Revision 30.1, each dated March 25, 2015. Using a different document with information identical to the information for the ‘‘Jettisonable sliding door installed, after ASB–BK117–20A–114’’ procedures in the Flight Manual revision specified in this paragraph for your helicopter is acceptable for compliance with the requirements of this paragraph. This action may be performed by the owner/operator (pilot) holding at least a private pilot certificate and must be entered into the aircraft records showing compliance with this AD in accordance with § 43.9(a)(1) through (4) and § 91.417(a)(2)(v). The record must be maintained as required by § 91.417, § 121.380, or § 135.439. (g) Additional Information (1) For service information related to 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 the referenced service information at the FAA, Office of the Regional Counsel, Southwest Region, 10101 Hillwood Pkwy, Room 6N– 321, Fort Worth, TX 76177. E:\FR\FM\28APP1.SGM 28APP1 EP28AP20.019</GPH> 23494 Federal Register / Vol. 85, No. 82 / Tuesday, April 28, 2020 / Proposed Rules (2) The subject of this AD is addressed in European Union Aviation Safety Agency (previously European Aviation Safety Agency) (EASA) AD No. 2015–0163R1, dated April 27, 2016. You may view the EASA AD on the internet at https:// www.regulations.gov in Docket No. FAA– 2015–3941. (h) Subject Joint Aircraft Service Component (JASC) Code: 5220, Emergency Exits. Issued on April 22, 2020. Gaetano A. Sciortino, Deputy Director for Strategic Initiatives, Compliance & Airworthiness Division, Aircraft Certification Service. [FR Doc. 2020–08902 Filed 4–27–20; 8:45 am] BILLING CODE 4910–13–P Administration, 800 Independence Avenue SW, Washington, DC 20591; telephone: (202) 267–8783. The Order is also available for inspection at the National Archives and Records Administration (NARA). For information on the availability of FAA Order 7400.11D at NARA, email fedreg.legal@nara.gov or go to https:// www.archives.gov/federal_register/cfr/ ibr_locations.html. FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Richard Roberts, Federal Aviation Administration, Operations Support Group, Western Service Center, 2200 S 216th Street, Des Moines, WA, 98198– 6547; telephone (206) 231–2245. SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: Authority for This Rulemaking DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION Federal Aviation Administration 14 CFR Part 71 [Docket No. FAA–2020–0298; Airspace Docket No. 19–ANM–97] RIN 2120–AA66 Proposed Establishment of Class E Airspace; Quinter, KS Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), DOT. ACTION: Notice of proposed rulemaking (NPRM). AGENCY: This action proposes to establish Class E airspace extending upward from 700 feet above the surface at Gove County Airport, Quinter, KS, to accommodate new area navigation (RNAV) procedures at the airport. This action would ensure the safety and management of instrument flight rules (IFR) operations within the National Airspace System. DATES: Comments must be received on or before June 12, 2020. ADDRESSES: Send comments on this proposal to the 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 FAA Docket No. FAA–2020– 0298; Airspace Docket No. 19–ANM–97, at the beginning of your comments. You may also submit comments through the internet at https://www.regulations.gov. FAA Order 7400.11D, Airspace Designations and Reporting Points, and subsequent amendments can be viewed online at https://www.faa.gov/air_ traffic/publications/. For further information, you can contact the Airspace Policy Group, Federal Aviation jbell on DSKJLSW7X2PROD with PROPOSALS SUMMARY: VerDate Sep<11>2014 17:22 Apr 27, 2020 Jkt 250001 The FAA’s authority to issue rules regarding aviation safety is found in Title 49 of the United States Code. Subtitle I, Section 106 describes the authority of the FAA Administrator. Subtitle VII, Aviation Programs, describes in more detail the scope of the agency’s authority. This rulemaking is promulgated under the authority described in Subtitle VII, Part A, 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 establish Class E airspace at Gove County Airport, Quinter, KS in support of IFR operations at the airport. Comments Invited Interested parties are invited to participate in this proposed rulemaking 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 (Docket No. FAA– 2020–0298; Airspace Docket No. 19– ANM–97) and be submitted in triplicate to 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 notice must submit with those comments a self-addressed, stamped PO 00000 Frm 00009 Fmt 4702 Sfmt 4702 23495 postcard on which the following statement is made: ‘‘Comments to Docket No. FAA–2020–0298; Airspace Docket No. 19–ANM–97.’’ The postcard will be date/time stamped and returned to the commenter. All communications received on or before the specified closing date for comments will be considered before taking action on the proposed rule. The proposal contained in this notice may be changed in light of the comments received. A report summarizing each substantive public contact with FAA personnel concerned with this rulemaking will be filed in the docket. Availability of NPRMs An electronic copy of this document may be downloaded through the internet at https://www.regulations.gov. Recently published rulemaking documents can also be accessed through the FAA’s web page at https:// www.faa.gov/air_traffic/publications/ airspace_amendments/. You may review the public docket containing the proposal, any comments received, and any final disposition in person in the Dockets Office (see the ADDRESSES section for the address and phone number) between 9:00 a.m. and 5:00 p.m., Monday through Friday, except federal holidays. An informal docket may also be examined between 8:00 a.m. and 4:30 p.m., Monday through Friday, except federal holidays, at the Northwest Mountain Regional Office of the Federal Aviation Administration, Air Traffic Organization, Western Service Center, Operations Support Group, 2200 S 216th St., Des Moines, WA 98198–6547. Availability and Summary of Documents for Incorporation by Reference This document proposes to amend FAA Order 7400.11D, Airspace Designations and Reporting Points, dated August 8, 2019, and effective September 15, 2019. FAA Order 7400.11D is publicly available as listed in the ADDRESSES section of this document. FAA Order 7400.11D lists Class A, B, C, D, and E airspace areas, air traffic service routes, and reporting points. The Proposal The FAA is proposing an amendment to Title 14 Code of Federal Regulations (14 CFR) part 71 by establishing Class E airspace extending upward from 700 feet above ground level at Gove County Airport, Quinter, KS. The Class E airspace extending upward from 700 feet AGL would be established to within 5.5 miles of the Gove County Airport. E:\FR\FM\28APP1.SGM 28APP1

Agencies

[Federal Register Volume 85, Number 82 (Tuesday, April 28, 2020)]
[Proposed Rules]
[Pages 23492-23495]
From the Federal Register Online via the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]
[FR Doc No: 2020-08902]


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

DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION

Federal Aviation Administration

14 CFR Part 39

[Docket No. FAA-2015-3941; Product Identifier 2015-SW-052-AD]
RIN 2120-AA64


Airworthiness Directives; Airbus Helicopters Deutschland GmbH 
Helicopters

AGENCY: Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), DOT.

ACTION: Supplemental notice of proposed rulemaking (SNPRM); reopening 
of comment period.

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

SUMMARY: The FAA is revising an earlier proposal for Airbus Helicopters 
Deutschland GmbH (Airbus Helicopters) Model MBB-BK 117A-3, MBB-BK 117A-
4, MBB-BK 117B-1, MBB-BK 117B-2, and MBB-BK 117C-1 helicopters. This 
action revises the notice of proposed rulemaking (NPRM) by expanding 
the applicability and proposing to add requirements to replace certain 
seals with newly certified seals and revise the Rotorcraft Flight 
Manual (RFM) for your helicopter. The FAA is proposing this 
airworthiness directive (AD) to address the unsafe condition on these 
products. Since these actions would impose an additional burden over 
those in the NPRM, the FAA is reopening the comment period to allow the 
public the chance to comment on these changes.

DATES: The comment period for the NPRM published in the Federal 
Register on May 5, 2016 (81 FR 27057), is reopened.
    The FAA must receive comments on this SNPRM by June 12, 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 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-2015-
3941; 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 SNPRM, 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 SNPRM, 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: 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 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-2015-3941; 
Product Identifier 2015-SW-052-AD'' at the beginning of your comments. 
The FAA specifically invites comments on the overall regulatory, 
economic, environmental, and energy aspects of this SNPRM. The FAA will 
consider all comments received by the closing date and may amend this 
SNPRM based on 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 SNPRM.

Discussion

    The FAA issued an NPRM to amend 14 CFR part 39 by adding an AD that 
would apply to Airbus Helicopters Model MBB-BK 117A-3, MBB-BK 117A-4, 
MBB-BK 117B-1, MBB-BK 117B-2, and MBB-BK 117C-1 helicopters with 
adhesive seal part number (P/N) 117-800201.01 installed

[[Page 23493]]

on an exterior or interior sliding door. The NPRM published in the 
Federal Register on May 5, 2016 (81 FR 27057). The NPRM was prompted by 
reports that the adhesive seal prevented the doors from jettisoning 
properly. The NPRM proposed to require removing this part-numbered 
adhesive seal from the exterior and interior of each sliding door. The 
NPRM also proposed to prohibit the installation of this part-numbered 
adhesive seal on any helicopter sliding door.
    EASA, which is the aviation authority for the Member States of the 
European Union, had issued EASA AD No. 2015-0163, dated August 6, 2015 
(EASA AD 2015-0163), to correct an unsafe condition for Airbus 
Helicopters Model MBB-BK 117A-3, MBB-BK 117A-4, MBB-BK 117B-1, MBB-BK 
117B-2, and MBB-BK 117C-1 helicopters. EASA advised that difficulties 
were reported regarding the jettisoning of doors. The malfunction was 
caused by the adhesive seal, which hampered the free movement of the 
inner handle. According to EASA, a subsequent investigation showed that 
the adhesive seal has mechanical and physical properties that do not 
meet relevant certification requirements. EASA stated that this 
condition, if not detected and corrected, could lead to a malfunction 
of the door's jettisoning mechanism, reducing or preventing the 
evacuation of the helicopter during an emergency, possibly resulting in 
injury to occupants. To address this condition, EASA AD 2015-0163 
required inspecting the exterior and interior door jettisoning system 
on the left and right sliding doors for adhesive seal P/N 117-800201.01 
and removing those adhesive seals.

Actions Since the NPRM Was Issued

    Since the FAA issued the NPRM, a new adhesive seal P/N has become 
available and the related service information has been revised to 
provide installation instructions for this new seal and instruction to 
use a revised flight manual with preflight check information for the 
new seal. EASA also revised its AD to EASA AD No. 2015-0163R1, dated 
April 27, 2016, to include a reference to the installation of the new 
adhesive seals.
    Accordingly, this SNPRM expands the applicability to include all 
Airbus Helicopters Model MBB-BK 117A-3, MBB-BK 117A-4, MBB-BK 117B-1, 
MBB-BK 117B-2, and MBB-BK 117C-1 helicopters and proposes to require 
installation of the new adhesive seals and revise the RFM for your 
helicopter.
    Additionally, since the NPRM was issued, the website address for 
Airbus Helicopters has changed. This website address has been updated 
in this SNPRM. Lastly, since the NPRM was issued, the FAA's Aircraft 
Certification Service has changed its organization structure. The new 
structure replaces product directorates with functional divisions. The 
FAA has revised some of the office titles and nomenclature throughout 
this proposed AD to reflect the new organizational changes. Information 
about the new structure can be found in the Notice published on July 
25, 2017 (82 FR 34564).

Comments

    The FAA gave the public the opportunity to participate in 
developing this proposed AD. The FAA received no comments on the NPRM 
or on the determination of the cost to the public.

FAA's Determination

    The FAA is proposing this SNPRM after evaluating all known relevant 
information and determining that an unsafe condition is likely to exist 
or develop on other helicopters of these same type designs. Certain 
changes described above expand the scope of the original NPRM. As a 
result, the FAA has determined that it is necessary to reopen the 
comment period to provide additional opportunity for the public to 
comment on this SNPRM.

Related Service Information Under 1 CFR Part 51

    The FAA reviewed Airbus Helicopters Deutschland GmbH Helicopters 
Alert Service Bulletin MBB-BK117-20A-114, Revision 2, dated March 30, 
2016, for Model MBB-BK 117A-3, MBB-BK 117A-4, MBB-BK 117B-1, MBB-BK 
117B-2, and MBB-BK 117C-1 helicopters. This service information 
describes procedures for cleaning and degreasing the seal installation 
areas and installing adhesive seal P/N 117-800201.02. This service 
information also specifies flight manual revisions with preflight check 
information for this new seal.
    The FAA reviewed MBB Helicopters Flight Manual MBB-BK117 A-3, 
Revision 17.1, MBB Helicopters Flight Manual MBB-BK117 A-4, Revision 
16.1, MBB Helicopters Flight Manual MBB-BK117 B-1, Revision 20.1, 
Eurocopter Flight Manual BK117 B-2, Revision 21.2, and Eurocopter 
Flight Manual BK117 C-1, Revision 30.1, each dated March 25, 2015. This 
revision of the service information adds preflight check procedures for 
``Jettisonable sliding door installed, after ASB-BK117-20A-114'' in the 
Normal Procedures section, Preflight Exterior Check, under both 
``Fuselage--right side'' and ``Fuselage--left side'' of the RFM for 
your helicopter.
    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 Requirements of the SNPRM

    If adhesive seal P/N 117-800201.01 is installed, this proposed AD 
would require, within 25 hours time-in-service, removing each adhesive 
seal from the interior and exterior of each sliding door. For all 
helicopters, this proposed AD would require cleaning and degreasing the 
seal installation areas and installing adhesive seal P/N 117-800201.02. 
This proposed AD would also require revising the Normal Procedures 
section, Preflight Exterior Check, under both ``Fuselage--right side'' 
and ``Fuselage--left side'' of the RFM for your helicopter to check the 
condition of the exterior and interior seals.
    This proposed AD would also prohibit the installation of adhesive 
seal P/N 117-800201.01 on any helicopter sliding door.

Differences Between This SNPRM and the EASA AD

    The EASA AD does not mandate the installation of the new adhesive 
seals, whereas this proposed AD would. Model MBB-BK 117 B-2 serial 
number 7203 is affected by the EASA AD, but it is not affected by this 
SNPRM because it is ineligible for U.S. registration.

Costs of Compliance

    The FAA estimates that this proposed AD affects 45 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.
    If installed, removing adhesive seals P/N 117-800201.01 would take 
about 0.5 work-hour for an estimated cost of about $43 per helicopter. 
Installing new seals and revising the RFM for your helicopter would 
take about 1 work-hour and a set of new seals (4 units) would cost 
about $5 for an estimated cost of $90 per helicopter and $4,050 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.

[[Page 23494]]

    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 above, 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 Deutschland GmbH: Docket No. FAA-2015-3941; 
Product Identifier 2015-SW-052-AD.

(a) Applicability

    This AD applies to Airbus Helicopters Deutschland GmbH Model 
MBB-BK 117A-3, MBB-BK 117A-4, MBB-BK 117B-1, MBB-BK 117B-2, and MBB-
BK 117C-1 helicopters, certificated in any category.

(b) Unsafe Condition

    This AD defines the unsafe condition as the presence of sealant 
on a sliding door (door). This condition could result in the door 
failing to jettison, preventing helicopter occupants from exiting 
the helicopter during an emergency.

(c) Comments Due Date

    The FAA must receive comments by June 12, 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 25 hours time-in-service after the effective date of 
this AD:
    (i) For helicopters with adhesive seal part number (P/N) 117-
800201.01 installed on an exterior or interior door, remove adhesive 
seal P/N 117-800201.01 from the interior and exterior of each door, 
remove any adhesive using solvent (CM 202 or equivalent) and remove 
any grease using methyl ethyl ketone (CM 217 or equivalent), and 
install adhesive seal P/N 117-800201.02. Refer to Figures 1 through 
4 of Airbus Helicopters Alert Service Bulletin MBB-BK117-20A-114, 
Revision 2, dated March 30, 2016 (ASB MBB-BK117-20A-114) for a 
depiction of the seal installation areas.
    (ii) For helicopters without adhesive seal P/N 117-800201.01 
installed, clean the seal installation areas using solvent (CM 202 
or equivalent), remove any grease using methyl ethyl ketone (CM 217 
or equivalent), and install adhesive seal P/N 117-800201.02. Refer 
to Figures 1 through 4 of ASB MBB-BK117-20A-114 for a depiction of 
the seal installation areas.
    (iii) Revise the Normal Procedures section, Preflight Exterior 
Check, under both ``Fuselage--right side'' and ``Fuselage--left 
side'' of the Rotorcraft Flight Manual for your helicopter by adding 
the information in Figure 1 to paragraph (e)(1)(iii) of this AD or 
by adding the information for ``Jettisonable sliding door installed, 
after ASB-BK117-20A-114'' of the following as applicable for your 
helicopter: MBB Helicopters Flight Manual MBB-BK117 A-3, Revision 
17.1, MBB Helicopters Flight Manual MBB-BK117 A-4, Revision 16.1, 
MBB Helicopters Flight Manual MBB-BK117 B-1, Revision 20.1, 
Eurocopter Flight Manual BK117 B-2, Revision 21.2, or Eurocopter 
Flight Manual BK117 C-1, Revision 30.1, each dated March 25, 2015. 
Using a different document with information identical to the 
information for the ``Jettisonable sliding door installed, after 
ASB-BK117-20A-114'' procedures in the Flight Manual revision 
specified in this paragraph for your helicopter is acceptable for 
compliance with the requirements of this paragraph. This action may 
be performed by the owner/operator (pilot) holding at least a 
private pilot certificate and must be entered into the aircraft 
records showing compliance with this AD in accordance with Sec.  
43.9(a)(1) through (4) and Sec.  91.417(a)(2)(v). The record must be 
maintained as required by Sec.  91.417, Sec.  121.380, or Sec.  
135.439.
[GRAPHIC] [TIFF OMITTED] TP28AP20.019

    (2) After the effective date of this AD, do not install adhesive 
seal P/N 117-800201.01 on any helicopter door.

(f) Alternative Methods of Compliance (AMOCs)

    (1) The Manager, Safety Management Group, 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

    (1) For service information related to 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 the referenced service information at the FAA, Office of the 
Regional Counsel, Southwest Region, 10101 Hillwood Pkwy, Room 6N-
321, Fort Worth, TX 76177.

[[Page 23495]]

    (2) The subject of this AD is addressed in European Union 
Aviation Safety Agency (previously European Aviation Safety Agency) 
(EASA) AD No. 2015-0163R1, dated April 27, 2016. You may view the 
EASA AD on the internet at https://www.regulations.gov in Docket No. 
FAA-2015-3941.

(h) Subject

    Joint Aircraft Service Component (JASC) Code: 5220, Emergency 
Exits.

    Issued on April 22, 2020.
Gaetano A. Sciortino,
Deputy Director for Strategic Initiatives, Compliance & Airworthiness 
Division, Aircraft Certification Service.
[FR Doc. 2020-08902 Filed 4-27-20; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE 4910-13-P
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