Airworthiness Directives; Leonardo S.p.A (Type Certificate Previously Held by Agusta S.p.A) Helicopters, 44459-44462 [2020-15811]

Download as PDF Federal Register / Vol. 85, No. 142 / Thursday, July 23, 2020 / Rules and Regulations List of Subjects in 14 CFR Part 39 Air transportation, Aircraft, Aviation safety, Incorporation by reference, Safety. Adoption of the Amendment Accordingly, under the authority delegated to me by the Administrator, the FAA amends 14 CFR part 39 as follows: PART 39—AIRWORTHINESS DIRECTIVES 1. The authority citation for part 39 continues to read as follows: ■ Authority: 49 U.S.C. 106(g), 40113, 44701. § 39.13 [Amended] 2. The FAA amends § 39.13 by adding the following new airworthiness directive (AD): ■ 2020–14–03 The Boeing Company: Amendment 39–21157; Docket No. FAA–2020–0097; Product Identifier 2019–NM–208–AD. (a) Effective Date This AD is effective August 27, 2020. (b) Affected ADs None. (c) Applicability (1) This AD applies to all The Boeing Company Model 737–300, –400, and –500 series airplanes, certificated in any category. (2) Installation of Supplemental Type Certificate (STC) ST01219SE does not affect the ability to accomplish the actions required by this AD. Therefore, for airplanes on which STC ST01219SE is installed, a ‘‘change in product’’ alternative method of compliance (AMOC) approval request is not necessary to comply with the requirements of 14 CFR 39.17. (d) Subject Air Transport Association (ATA) of America Code 57, Wings. jbell on DSKJLSW7X2PROD with RULES (e) Unsafe Condition This AD was prompted by a report that a crack indication consistent with fatigue cracking was found on the left nacelle support overwing fitting flange fastener hole during teardown of a Model 737–300 series airplane. The FAA is issuing this AD to address the potential for undetected cracks in the nacelle support overwing fittings or strut to wing diagonal brace, which could result in the inability of the structure to carry limit load and could adversely affect the structural integrity of the airplane. (f) Compliance Comply with this AD within the compliance times specified, unless already done. (g) Required Actions Except as specified by paragraph (h) of this AD: At the applicable times specified in the ‘‘Compliance’’ paragraph of Boeing Alert VerDate Sep<11>2014 15:55 Jul 22, 2020 Jkt 250001 Requirements Bulletin 737–57A1345 RB, dated December 17, 2019, do all applicable actions identified in, and in accordance with, the Accomplishment Instructions of Boeing Alert Requirements Bulletin 737–57A1345 RB, dated December 17, 2019. Actions identified as terminating actions in Boeing Alert Requirements Bulletin 737–57A1345 RB, dated December 17, 2019, terminate the applicable required actions of this AD, provided the terminating action is done in accordance with the Accomplishment Instructions of Boeing Alert Requirements Bulletin 737–57A1345 RB, dated December 17, 2019. Note 1 to paragraph (g): Guidance for accomplishing the actions required by this AD can be found in Boeing Alert Service Bulletin 737–57A1345, dated December 17, 2019, which is referred to in Boeing Alert Requirements Bulletin 737–57A1345 RB, dated December 17, 2019. (h) Exceptions to Service Information Specifications (1) Where Boeing Alert Requirements Bulletin 737–57A1345 RB, dated December 17, 2019, uses the phrase ‘‘the original issue date of Requirements Bulletin (RB) 737– 57A1345 RB,’’ this AD requires using ‘‘the effective date of this AD.’’ (2) Where Boeing Alert Requirements Bulletin 737–57A1345 RB, dated December 17, 2019, specifies contacting Boeing for repair instructions, this AD requires doing the repair before further flight using a method approved in accordance with the procedures specified in paragraph (i) of this AD. (i) Alternative Methods of Compliance (AMOCs) (1) The Manager, Los Angeles ACO Branch, FAA, has the authority to approve AMOCs for this AD, if requested using the procedures found in 14 CFR 39.19. In accordance with 14 CFR 39.19, send your request to your principal inspector or local Flight Standards District Office, as appropriate. If sending information directly to the manager of the certification office, send it to the attention of the person identified in paragraph (j)(1) of this AD. Information may be emailed to: 9ANM-LAACO-AMOC-Requests@faa.gov. (2) Before using any approved AMOC, notify your appropriate principal inspector, or lacking a principal inspector, the manager of the local flight standards district office/ certificate holding district office. (3) An AMOC that provides an acceptable level of safety may be used for any repair, modification, or alteration required by this AD if it is approved by The Boeing Company Organization Designation Authorization (ODA) that has been authorized by the Manager, Los Angeles ACO Branch, FAA, to make those findings. To be approved, the repair method, modification deviation, or alteration deviation must meet the certification basis of the airplane, and the approval must specifically refer to this AD. (j) Related Information (1) For more information about this AD, contact Wayne Ha, Aerospace Engineer, Airframe Section, FAA, Los Angeles ACO Branch, 3960 Paramount Boulevard, PO 00000 Frm 00007 Fmt 4700 Sfmt 4700 44459 Lakewood, CA 90712–4137; phone: 562–627– 5238; fax: 562–627–5210; email: wayne.ha@ faa.gov. (2) Service information identified in this AD that is not incorporated by reference is available at the addresses specified in paragraphs (k)(3) and (4) of this AD. (k) Material Incorporated by Reference (1) The Director of the Federal Register approved the incorporation by reference (IBR) of the service information listed in this paragraph under 5 U.S.C. 552(a) and 1 CFR part 51. (2) You must use this service information as applicable to do the actions required by this AD, unless the AD specifies otherwise. (i) Boeing Alert Requirements Bulletin 737–57A1345 RB, dated December 17, 2019. (ii) [Reserved] (3) For service information identified in this AD, contact Boeing Commercial Airplanes, Attention: Contractual & Data Services (C&DS), 2600 Westminster Blvd., MC 110–SK57, Seal Beach, CA 90740–5600; telephone 562–797–1717; internet https:// www.myboeingfleet.com. (4) You may view this service information at the FAA, Airworthiness Products Section, Operational Safety Branch, 2200 South 216th St., Des Moines, WA. For information on the availability of this material at the FAA, call 206–231–3195. (5) You may view this service information that is incorporated by reference at the National Archives and Records Administration (NARA). For information on the availability of this material at NARA, email fedreg.legal@nara.gov, or go to: https:// www.archives.gov/federal-register/cfr/ibrlocations.html. Issued on July 6, 2020. Gaetano A. Sciortino, Deputy Director for Strategic Initiatives, Compliance & Airworthiness Division, Aircraft Certification Service. [FR Doc. 2020–15818 Filed 7–22–20; 8:45 am] BILLING CODE 4910–13–P DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION Federal Aviation Administration 14 CFR Part 39 [Docket No. FAA–2020–0204; Product Identifier 2018–SW–082–AD; Amendment 39–21179; AD 2020–15–16] RIN 2120–AA64 Airworthiness Directives; Leonardo S.p.A (Type Certificate Previously Held by Agusta S.p.A) Helicopters Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), Department of Transportation (DOT). ACTION: Final rule. AGENCY: The FAA is superseding Airworthiness Directive (AD) 2018–07– 08, which applied to certain Leonardo SUMMARY: E:\FR\FM\23JYR1.SGM 23JYR1 44460 Federal Register / Vol. 85, No. 142 / Thursday, July 23, 2020 / Rules and Regulations jbell on DSKJLSW7X2PROD with RULES S.p.A (type certificate previously held by Agusta S.p.A) Model A109E, A109K2, A109S, AW109SP, A119, and AW119 MKII helicopters. AD 2018–07– 08 required reducing the life limit of the tail rotor blade retention bolt and an inspection of that bolt for cracking, and replacement of any cracked bolt. This AD continues to require reducing the life limit of the tail rotor blade retention bolt, inspecting that bolt for cracking, and replacing any cracked bolt. In addition, this AD requires repetitive inspections of the tail rotor blade retention bolt for cracking. The FAA is issuing this AD to address the unsafe condition on these products. DATES: This AD is effective August 27, 2020. The Director of the Federal Register approved the incorporation by reference of certain publications listed in this AD as of April 26, 2018 (83 FR 15495, April 11, 2018). ADDRESSES: For service information identified in this final 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 this service information at the FAA, Office of the Regional Counsel, Southwest Region, 10101 Hillwood Pkwy., Room 6N–321, Fort Worth, TX 76177. For information on the availability of this material at the FAA, call 817–222–5110. It is also available on the internet at https:// www.regulations.gov by searching for and locating Docket No. FAA–2020– 0204. 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– 0204; or in person at Docket Operations between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m., Monday through Friday, except Federal holidays. The AD docket contains this final rule, any comments received, and other information. The address for Docket Operations is U.S. Department of Transportation, Docket Operations, M– 30, West Building Ground Floor, Room W12–140, 1200 New Jersey Avenue SE, Washington, DC 20590. FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Matt Fuller, AD Program Manager, Continued Operational Safety Branch, Airworthiness Products Section, General Aviation and Rotorcraft Unit, 10101 Hillwood Pkwy., Fort Worth, TX 76177; telephone 817–222–5151; email matthew.fuller@faa.gov. VerDate Sep<11>2014 15:55 Jul 22, 2020 Jkt 250001 SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: Discussion The FAA issued a notice of proposed rulemaking (NPRM) to amend 14 CFR part 39 to supersede AD 2018–07–08, Amendment 39–19239 (83 FR 15495, April 11, 2018) (‘‘AD 2018–07–08’’). AD 2018–07–08 applied to certain Leonardo S.p.A Model A109E, A109K2, A109S, AW109SP, A119, and AW119 MKII helicopters. The NPRM published in the Federal Register on March 23, 2020 (85 FR 16281). The NPRM was prompted by the FAA’s determination that repetitive inspections of the tail rotor blade retention bolt are needed to address the unsafe condition. The NPRM proposed to continue to require reducing the life limit of the tail rotor blade retention bolt, inspecting that bolt for cracking, and replacing any cracked bolt. The NPRM also proposed to require repetitive inspections of the tail rotor blade retention bolt for cracking. Since issuing AD 2018–07–08, the FAA has determined that repetitive inspections of the tail rotor blade retention bolt are needed to address the unsafe condition. The FAA is issuing this AD to address cracked bolts, which could result in failure of the tail rotor and loss of control of the helicopter. The European Aviation Safety Agency (now European Union Aviation Safety Agency) (EASA), which is the Technical Agent for the Member States of the European Union, has issued EASA Emergency AD, 2016–0173–E, dated August 24, 2016 (referred to after this as the Mandatory Continuing Airworthiness Information, or ‘‘the MCAI’’), to correct an unsafe condition for all Leonardo S.p.A. Model A109E, A109K2, A109LUH, A109S, A119, AW109SP and AW119 MKII helicopters. You may examine the MCAI in the AD docket on the internet at https:// www.regulations.gov by searching for and locating Docket No. FAA–2020– 0204. See the MCAI for additional background information. Comments The FAA gave the public the opportunity to participate in developing this final rule. The FAA received no comments on the NPRM or on the determination of the cost to the public. Conclusion The FAA reviewed the relevant data and determined that air safety and the public interest require adopting this final rule as proposed, except for minor editorial changes. The FAA has determined that these minor changes: PO 00000 Frm 00008 Fmt 4700 Sfmt 4700 • Are consistent with the intent that was proposed in the NPRM for addressing the unsafe condition; and • Do not add any additional burden upon the public than was already proposed in the NPRM. Related Service Information Under 1 CFR Part 51 This AD requires the following service information, which the Director of the Federal Register approved for incorporation by reference as of April 26, 2018 (83 FR 15495, April 11, 2018). • Leonardo Helicopters Mandatory Bollettino Tecnico No. 109EP–149, dated August 19, 2016. • Leonardo Helicopters Mandatory Bollettino Tecnico No. 109K–72, dated August 19, 2016. • Leonardo Helicopters Mandatory Bollettino Tecnico No. 109S–072, dated August 19, 2016. • Leonardo Helicopters Mandatory Bollettino Tecnico No. 109SP–105, dated August 19, 2016. • Leonardo Helicopters Mandatory Bollettino Tecnico No. 119–080, dated August 19, 2016. 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. Differences Between This AD and the MCAI or Service Information The MCAI does not specify life limits for a tail rotor blade retention bolt having part number (P/N) 709–0160– 57–101 that has been interchanged between model helicopter installations, while this AD does. The MCAI applies to Model A109LUH helicopters. Model A109LUH helicopters are not certified by the FAA and are not included on the U.S. type certificate data sheet; this AD therefore does not include those helicopters in the applicability. Interim Action The FAA considers this AD to be an interim action. The design approval holder is currently developing a modification that will address the unsafe condition identified in this AD. Once this modification is developed, approved, and available, the FAA might consider additional rulemaking. Costs of Compliance The FAA estimates that this AD affects 219 helicopters of U.S. registry. The FAA estimates the following costs to comply with this AD: E:\FR\FM\23JYR1.SGM 23JYR1 Federal Register / Vol. 85, No. 142 / Thursday, July 23, 2020 / Rules and Regulations 44461 ESTIMATED COSTS FOR REQUIRED ACTIONS Action Labor cost Retained actions from AD 2018–07–08 ......... New actions .................................................... 4 work-hours × $85 per hour = $340 ............. 4 work-hours × $85 per hour = $340 ............. Cost per product Parts cost $0 0 $340 340 Cost on U.S. operators $74,460 74,460 jbell on DSKJLSW7X2PROD with RULES ESTIMATED COSTS OF ON-CONDITION ACTIONS Labor cost Parts cost Cost per product 2 work-hour × $85 per hour = $170 ........................................................................................................................ $500 $670 According to the manufacturer, some or all of the costs of this AD may be covered under warranty, thereby reducing the cost impact on affected individuals. The FAA does not control warranty coverage for affected individuals. As a result, the FAA has included all known costs in the cost estimate. on a substantial number of small entities under the criteria of the Regulatory Flexibility Act. 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. Accordingly, under the authority delegated to me by the Administrator, the FAA amends 14 CFR part 39 as follows: Regulatory Findings This AD will not have federalism implications under Executive Order 13132. This AD will not have a substantial direct effect on the States, on the relationship between the national government and the States, or on the distribution of power and responsibilities among the various levels of government. For the reasons discussed above, I certify that this AD: (1) Is not a ‘‘significant regulatory action’’ under Executive Order 12866, (2) Will not affect intrastate aviation in Alaska, and (3) Will not have a significant economic impact, positive or negative, VerDate Sep<11>2014 15:55 Jul 22, 2020 Jkt 250001 List of Subjects in 14 CFR Part 39 Air transportation, Aircraft, Aviation safety, Incorporation by reference, Safety. Adoption of the Amendment 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: a. Removing Airworthiness Directive (AD) 2018–07–08, Amendment 39– 19239 (83 FR 15495, April 11, 2018); and ■ b. Adding the following new AD: ■ ■ 2020–15–16 Leonardo S.p.A. (type certificate previously held by Agusta S.p.A.): Amendment 39–21179; Docket No. FAA–2020–0204; Product Identifier 2018–SW–082–AD. (a) Effective Date This AD is effective August 27, 2020. (b) Affected ADs This AD replaces AD 2018–07–08, Amendment 39–19239 (83 FR 15495, April 11, 2018). (c) Applicability This AD applies to Leonardo S.p.A. (type certificate previously held by Agusta S.p.A.) Model A109E, A109K2, A109S, AW109SP, A119, and AW119 MKII helicopters, certificated in any category, with a tail rotor blade retention bolt (bolt) having part number (P/N) 709–0160–57–101 installed. (d) Subject Joint Aircraft Service Component (JASC) Code 6500, Tail Rotor Drive System. PO 00000 Frm 00009 Fmt 4700 Sfmt 4700 (e) Reason This AD was prompted by the discovery of a cracked bolt, and a determination that repetitive inspections of the bolt are needed to address the unsafe condition. The FAA is issuing this AD to address cracked bolts, which could result in failure of the tail rotor and loss of control of the helicopter. (f) Compliance Comply with this AD within the compliance times specified, unless already done. (g) Required Actions (1) Before further flight: (i) For Model A109E and A109K2 helicopters, remove from service any bolt having P/N 709–0160–57–101 that has 800 or more hours time-in-service (TIS). If the hours TIS is unknown, remove the bolt from service. Thereafter, remove from service any bolt having P/N 709–0160–57–101 before accumulating 800 hours TIS. (ii) For Model A109S, AW109SP, A119, and AW119 MKII helicopters, remove from service any bolt having P/N 709–0160–57– 101 that has 3,200 or more landings. If the number of landings is unknown, remove the bolt from service. Thereafter, remove from service any bolt having P/N 709–0160–57– 101 before accumulating 3,200 landings. For purposes of this AD, a landing is counted anytime a helicopter lifts off into the air and then lands again regardless of the duration of the landing and regardless of whether the engine is shutdown. (iii) Remove from service any bolt having P/N 709–0160–57–101 that has 800 or more hours TIS, or 3,200 or more landings, that has been interchanged between different model helicopters listed in paragraphs (g)(1)(i) and (ii) of this AD. If the hours TIS or number of landings is unknown, remove the bolt from service. Thereafter, remove from service any bolt having P/N 709–0160–57–101 that has been interchanged between different model helicopters listed in paragraphs (g)(1)(i) and (ii) of this AD before accumulating 800 hours TIS or 3,200 landings, whichever occurs first. (2) Within 25 hours TIS after the effective date of this AD, and thereafter at intervals not to exceed 200 hours TIS, remove each bolt having P/N 709–0160–57–101. Prior to cleaning, using a 10X or higher power magnifying glass, inspect each bolt having P/ N 709–0160–57–101 for any crack in the area depicted in Figure 1 of Leonardo Helicopters Mandatory Bollettino Tecnico No. 109EP– E:\FR\FM\23JYR1.SGM 23JYR1 44462 Federal Register / Vol. 85, No. 142 / Thursday, July 23, 2020 / Rules and Regulations 149, 109K–72, 109S–072, 109SP–105, or 119– 080, all dated August 19, 2016, as applicable to your model helicopter. (i) If there is any crack, replace the bolt with an airworthy bolt before further flight. (ii) If there are no cracks, before further flight, clean and degrease the inspection area of the bolt with solvent, and using a 10X or higher power magnifying glass, inspect each bolt having P/N 709–0160–57–101 for any crack in the area depicted in Figure 1 of Leonardo Helicopters Mandatory Bollettino Tecnico No. 109EP–149, 109K–72, 109S–072, 109SP–105, or 119–080, all dated August 19, 2016, as applicable to your model helicopter. If there is any crack, replace the bolt with an airworthy bolt before further flight. (3) As of the effective date of this AD, installation of a bolt having P/N 709–0160– 57–101 is allowed, provided that the bolt has passed an inspection as required by paragraph (g)(2) of this AD. (h) Alternative Methods of Compliance (AMOCs) (1) The Manager, Rotorcraft Standards Branch, FAA, may approve AMOCs for this AD. Send your proposal to: Matt Fuller, AD Program Manager, Continued Operational Safety Branch, Airworthiness Products Section, General Aviation and Rotorcraft Unit, 10101 Hillwood Pkwy., Fort Worth, TX 76177; telephone (817) 222–5151; email 9ASW-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, 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. jbell on DSKJLSW7X2PROD with RULES (i) Related Information (1) Refer to Mandatory Continuing Airworthiness Information European Aviation Safety Agency (now European Union Aviation Safety Agency) (EASA) Emergency AD 2016–0173–E, dated August 24, 2016. 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–2020–0204. (2) For more information about this AD, contact Matt Fuller, AD Program Manager, Continued Operational Safety Branch, Airworthiness Products Section, General Aviation and Rotorcraft Unit, 10101 Hillwood Pkwy., Fort Worth, TX 76177; telephone (817) 222–5151; email matthew.fuller@faa.gov. (j) Material Incorporated by Reference (1) The Director of the Federal Register approved the incorporation by reference (IBR) of the service information listed in this paragraph under 5 U.S.C. 552(a) and 1 CFR part 51. (2) You must use this service information as applicable to do the actions required by this AD, unless this AD specifies otherwise. (3) The following service information was approved for IBR on April 26, 2018 (83 FR 15495, April 11, 2018). (i) Leonardo Helicopters Mandatory Bollettino Tecnico No. 109EP–149, dated August 19, 2016. VerDate Sep<11>2014 15:55 Jul 22, 2020 Jkt 250001 (ii) Leonardo Helicopters Mandatory Bollettino Tecnico No. 109K–72, dated August 19, 2016. (iii) Leonardo Helicopters Mandatory Bollettino Tecnico No. 109S–072, dated August 19, 2016. (iv) Leonardo Helicopters Mandatory Bollettino Tecnico No. 109SP–105, dated August 19, 2016. (v) Leonardo Helicopters Mandatory Bollettino Tecnico No. 119–080, dated August 19, 2016. (4) 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. (5) 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. For information on the availability of this material at the FAA, call (817) 222–5110. (6) You may view this service information that is incorporated by reference at the National Archives and Records Administration (NARA). For information on the availability of this material at NARA, email fedreg.legal@nara.gov, or go to: https:// www.archives.gov/federal-register/cfr/ibrlocations.html. of Israel (CAAI) AD, which is incorporated by reference. The FAA is issuing this AD to address the unsafe condition on these products. DATES: This AD is effective August 27, 2020. The Director of the Federal Register approved the incorporation by reference of a certain publication listed in this AD as of August 27, 2020. ADDRESSES: For the material incorporated by reference (IBR) in this AD, contact the CAAI, P.O. Box 1101, Golan Street, Airport City, 70100, Israel; telephone 972–3–9774665; fax 972–3– 9774592; email aip@mot.gov.il. You may find this IBR material on the CAA website at www.caa.gov.il. You may view this IBR material at the FAA, Airworthiness Products Section, Operational Safety 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– 0334. Issued on July 16, 2020. Lance T. Gant, Director, Compliance & Airworthiness Division, Aircraft Certification Service. 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– 0334; or in person at Docket Operations between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m., Monday through Friday, except Federal holidays. The AD docket contains this final rule, any comments received, and other information. The address for Docket Operations is U.S. Department of Transportation, Docket Operations, M– 30, West Building Ground Floor, Room W12–140, 1200 New Jersey Avenue SE, Washington, DC 20590. FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Tom Rodriguez, Aerospace Engineer, Large Aircraft Section, International Validation Branch, FAA, 2200 South 216th St., Des Moines, WA 98198; telephone and fax 206–231–3226; email tom.rodriguez@faa.gov. SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: [FR Doc. 2020–15811 Filed 7–22–20; 8:45 am] BILLING CODE 4910–13–P DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION Federal Aviation Administration 14 CFR Part 39 [Docket No. FAA–2020–0334; Product Identifier 2020–NM–014–AD; Amendment 39–21165; AD 2020–15–02] RIN 2120–AA64 Airworthiness Directives; Gulfstream Aerospace LP Airplanes Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), Department of Transportation (DOT). ACTION: Final rule. AGENCY: The FAA is adopting a new airworthiness directive (AD) for certain Gulfstream Aerospace LP Model Gulfstream G280 airplanes. This AD was prompted by a report of inadequate clearance between the fuel probes and forward fuel tank structure. This AD requires measuring the clearance between certain fuel probes and the forward fuel tank structure, and reinstalling the probes if necessary, as specified in a Civil Aviation Authority SUMMARY: PO 00000 Frm 00010 Fmt 4700 Sfmt 4700 Discussion The CAAI, which is the aviation authority for Israel, has issued Israeli AD ISR–I–53–19–10–5, dated October 10, 2019 (‘‘Israeli AD ISR–I–53–19–10– 5’’) (also referred to as the Mandatory Continuing Airworthiness Information, or ‘‘the MCAI’’), to correct an unsafe condition for certain Gulfstream Aerospace LP Model Gulfstream G280 airplanes. The FAA issued a notice of proposed rulemaking (NPRM) to amend 14 CFR E:\FR\FM\23JYR1.SGM 23JYR1

Agencies

[Federal Register Volume 85, Number 142 (Thursday, July 23, 2020)]
[Rules and Regulations]
[Pages 44459-44462]
From the Federal Register Online via the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]
[FR Doc No: 2020-15811]


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DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION

Federal Aviation Administration

14 CFR Part 39

[Docket No. FAA-2020-0204; Product Identifier 2018-SW-082-AD; Amendment 
39-21179; AD 2020-15-16]
RIN 2120-AA64


Airworthiness Directives; Leonardo S.p.A (Type Certificate 
Previously Held by Agusta S.p.A) Helicopters

AGENCY: Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), Department of 
Transportation (DOT).

ACTION: Final rule.

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

SUMMARY: The FAA is superseding Airworthiness Directive (AD) 2018-07-
08, which applied to certain Leonardo

[[Page 44460]]

S.p.A (type certificate previously held by Agusta S.p.A) Model A109E, 
A109K2, A109S, AW109SP, A119, and AW119 MKII helicopters. AD 2018-07-08 
required reducing the life limit of the tail rotor blade retention bolt 
and an inspection of that bolt for cracking, and replacement of any 
cracked bolt. This AD continues to require reducing the life limit of 
the tail rotor blade retention bolt, inspecting that bolt for cracking, 
and replacing any cracked bolt. In addition, this AD requires 
repetitive inspections of the tail rotor blade retention bolt for 
cracking. The FAA is issuing this AD to address the unsafe condition on 
these products.

DATES: This AD is effective August 27, 2020.
    The Director of the Federal Register approved the incorporation by 
reference of certain publications listed in this AD as of April 26, 
2018 (83 FR 15495, April 11, 2018).

ADDRESSES: For service information identified in this final 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 this service information 
at the FAA, Office of the Regional Counsel, Southwest Region, 10101 
Hillwood Pkwy., Room 6N-321, Fort Worth, TX 76177. For information on 
the availability of this material at the FAA, call 817-222-5110. It is 
also available on the internet at https://www.regulations.gov by 
searching for and locating Docket No. FAA-2020-0204.

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-
0204; or in person at Docket Operations between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m., 
Monday through Friday, except Federal holidays. The AD docket contains 
this final rule, any comments received, and other information. The 
address for Docket Operations is U.S. Department of Transportation, 
Docket Operations, M-30, West Building Ground Floor, Room W12-140, 1200 
New Jersey Avenue SE, Washington, DC 20590.

FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Matt Fuller, AD Program Manager, 
Continued Operational Safety Branch, Airworthiness Products Section, 
General Aviation and Rotorcraft Unit, 10101 Hillwood Pkwy., Fort Worth, 
TX 76177; telephone 817-222-5151; email [email protected].

SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION:

Discussion

    The FAA issued a notice of proposed rulemaking (NPRM) to amend 14 
CFR part 39 to supersede AD 2018-07-08, Amendment 39-19239 (83 FR 
15495, April 11, 2018) (``AD 2018-07-08''). AD 2018-07-08 applied to 
certain Leonardo S.p.A Model A109E, A109K2, A109S, AW109SP, A119, and 
AW119 MKII helicopters. The NPRM published in the Federal Register on 
March 23, 2020 (85 FR 16281). The NPRM was prompted by the FAA's 
determination that repetitive inspections of the tail rotor blade 
retention bolt are needed to address the unsafe condition. The NPRM 
proposed to continue to require reducing the life limit of the tail 
rotor blade retention bolt, inspecting that bolt for cracking, and 
replacing any cracked bolt. The NPRM also proposed to require 
repetitive inspections of the tail rotor blade retention bolt for 
cracking. Since issuing AD 2018-07-08, the FAA has determined that 
repetitive inspections of the tail rotor blade retention bolt are 
needed to address the unsafe condition. The FAA is issuing this AD to 
address cracked bolts, which could result in failure of the tail rotor 
and loss of control of the helicopter.
    The European Aviation Safety Agency (now European Union Aviation 
Safety Agency) (EASA), which is the Technical Agent for the Member 
States of the European Union, has issued EASA Emergency AD, 2016-0173-
E, dated August 24, 2016 (referred to after this as the Mandatory 
Continuing Airworthiness Information, or ``the MCAI''), to correct an 
unsafe condition for all Leonardo S.p.A. Model A109E, A109K2, A109LUH, 
A109S, A119, AW109SP and AW119 MKII helicopters. You may examine the 
MCAI in the AD docket on the internet at https://www.regulations.gov by 
searching for and locating Docket No. FAA-2020-0204.
    See the MCAI for additional background information.

Comments

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

Conclusion

    The FAA reviewed the relevant data and determined that air safety 
and the public interest require adopting this final rule as proposed, 
except for minor editorial changes. The FAA has determined that these 
minor changes:
     Are consistent with the intent that was proposed in the 
NPRM for addressing the unsafe condition; and
     Do not add any additional burden upon the public than was 
already proposed in the NPRM.

Related Service Information Under 1 CFR Part 51

    This AD requires the following service information, which the 
Director of the Federal Register approved for incorporation by 
reference as of April 26, 2018 (83 FR 15495, April 11, 2018).
     Leonardo Helicopters Mandatory Bollettino Tecnico No. 
109EP-149, dated August 19, 2016.
     Leonardo Helicopters Mandatory Bollettino Tecnico No. 
109K-72, dated August 19, 2016.
     Leonardo Helicopters Mandatory Bollettino Tecnico No. 
109S-072, dated August 19, 2016.
     Leonardo Helicopters Mandatory Bollettino Tecnico No. 
109SP-105, dated August 19, 2016.
     Leonardo Helicopters Mandatory Bollettino Tecnico No. 119-
080, dated August 19, 2016.
    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.

Differences Between This AD and the MCAI or Service Information

    The MCAI does not specify life limits for a tail rotor blade 
retention bolt having part number (P/N) 709-0160-57-101 that has been 
interchanged between model helicopter installations, while this AD 
does.
    The MCAI applies to Model A109LUH helicopters. Model A109LUH 
helicopters are not certified by the FAA and are not included on the 
U.S. type certificate data sheet; this AD therefore does not include 
those helicopters in the applicability.

Interim Action

    The FAA considers this AD to be an interim action. The design 
approval holder is currently developing a modification that will 
address the unsafe condition identified in this AD. Once this 
modification is developed, approved, and available, the FAA might 
consider additional rulemaking.

Costs of Compliance

    The FAA estimates that this AD affects 219 helicopters of U.S. 
registry. The FAA estimates the following costs to comply with this AD:

[[Page 44461]]



                                      Estimated Costs for Required Actions
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                                     Cost per      Cost on U.S.
                Action                         Labor cost           Parts cost        product        operators
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Retained actions from AD 2018-07-08...  4 work-hours x $85 per                $0            $340         $74,460
                                         hour = $340.
New actions...........................  4 work-hours x $85 per                 0             340          74,460
                                         hour = $340.
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------


                 Estimated Costs of On-Condition Actions
------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                             Cost per
              Labor cost                   Parts cost        product
------------------------------------------------------------------------
2 work-hour x $85 per hour = $170.....            $500             $670
------------------------------------------------------------------------

    According to the manufacturer, some or all of the costs of this AD 
may be covered under warranty, thereby reducing the cost impact on 
affected individuals. The FAA does not control warranty coverage for 
affected individuals. As a result, the FAA has included all known costs 
in the cost estimate.

Authority for This Rulemaking

    Title 49 of the United States Code specifies the FAA's authority to 
issue rules on aviation safety. Subtitle I, section 106, describes the 
authority of the FAA Administrator. Subtitle VII: Aviation Programs, 
describes in more detail the scope of the Agency's authority.
    The FAA is issuing this rulemaking under the authority described in 
Subtitle VII, Part A, Subpart III, Section 44701: General requirements. 
Under that section, Congress charges the FAA with promoting safe flight 
of civil aircraft in air commerce by prescribing regulations for 
practices, methods, and procedures the Administrator finds necessary 
for safety in air commerce. This regulation is within the scope of that 
authority because it addresses an unsafe condition that is likely to 
exist or develop on products identified in this rulemaking action.

Regulatory Findings

    This AD will not have federalism implications under Executive Order 
13132. This AD will not have a substantial direct effect on the States, 
on the relationship between the national government and the States, or 
on the distribution of power and responsibilities among the various 
levels of government.
    For the reasons discussed above, I certify that this AD:
    (1) Is not a ``significant regulatory action'' under Executive 
Order 12866,
    (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.

Adoption of the Amendment

    Accordingly, under the authority delegated to me by the 
Administrator, the FAA amends 14 CFR part 39 as follows:

PART 39--AIRWORTHINESS DIRECTIVES

0
1. The authority citation for part 39 continues to read as follows:

    Authority:  49 U.S.C. 106(g), 40113, 44701.


Sec.  39.13  [Amended]

0
2. The FAA amends Sec.  39.13 by:
0
a. Removing Airworthiness Directive (AD) 2018-07-08, Amendment 39-19239 
(83 FR 15495, April 11, 2018); and
0
b. Adding the following new AD:

2020-15-16 Leonardo S.p.A. (type certificate previously held by 
Agusta S.p.A.): Amendment 39-21179; Docket No. FAA-2020-0204; 
Product Identifier 2018-SW-082-AD.

(a) Effective Date

    This AD is effective August 27, 2020.

(b) Affected ADs

    This AD replaces AD 2018-07-08, Amendment 39-19239 (83 FR 15495, 
April 11, 2018).

(c) Applicability

    This AD applies to Leonardo S.p.A. (type certificate previously 
held by Agusta S.p.A.) Model A109E, A109K2, A109S, AW109SP, A119, 
and AW119 MKII helicopters, certificated in any category, with a 
tail rotor blade retention bolt (bolt) having part number (P/N) 709-
0160-57-101 installed.

(d) Subject

    Joint Aircraft Service Component (JASC) Code 6500, Tail Rotor 
Drive System.

(e) Reason

    This AD was prompted by the discovery of a cracked bolt, and a 
determination that repetitive inspections of the bolt are needed to 
address the unsafe condition. The FAA is issuing this AD to address 
cracked bolts, which could result in failure of the tail rotor and 
loss of control of the helicopter.

(f) Compliance

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

(g) Required Actions

    (1) Before further flight:
    (i) For Model A109E and A109K2 helicopters, remove from service 
any bolt having P/N 709-0160-57-101 that has 800 or more hours time-
in-service (TIS). If the hours TIS is unknown, remove the bolt from 
service. Thereafter, remove from service any bolt having P/N 709-
0160-57-101 before accumulating 800 hours TIS.
    (ii) For Model A109S, AW109SP, A119, and AW119 MKII helicopters, 
remove from service any bolt having P/N 709-0160-57-101 that has 
3,200 or more landings. If the number of landings is unknown, remove 
the bolt from service. Thereafter, remove from service any bolt 
having P/N 709-0160-57-101 before accumulating 3,200 landings. For 
purposes of this AD, a landing is counted anytime a helicopter lifts 
off into the air and then lands again regardless of the duration of 
the landing and regardless of whether the engine is shutdown.
    (iii) Remove from service any bolt having P/N 709-0160-57-101 
that has 800 or more hours TIS, or 3,200 or more landings, that has 
been interchanged between different model helicopters listed in 
paragraphs (g)(1)(i) and (ii) of this AD. If the hours TIS or number 
of landings is unknown, remove the bolt from service. Thereafter, 
remove from service any bolt having P/N 709-0160-57-101 that has 
been interchanged between different model helicopters listed in 
paragraphs (g)(1)(i) and (ii) of this AD before accumulating 800 
hours TIS or 3,200 landings, whichever occurs first.
    (2) Within 25 hours TIS after the effective date of this AD, and 
thereafter at intervals not to exceed 200 hours TIS, remove each 
bolt having P/N 709-0160-57-101. Prior to cleaning, using a 10X or 
higher power magnifying glass, inspect each bolt having P/N 709-
0160-57-101 for any crack in the area depicted in Figure 1 of 
Leonardo Helicopters Mandatory Bollettino Tecnico No. 109EP-

[[Page 44462]]

149, 109K-72, 109S-072, 109SP-105, or 119-080, all dated August 19, 
2016, as applicable to your model helicopter.
    (i) If there is any crack, replace the bolt with an airworthy 
bolt before further flight.
    (ii) If there are no cracks, before further flight, clean and 
degrease the inspection area of the bolt with solvent, and using a 
10X or higher power magnifying glass, inspect each bolt having P/N 
709-0160-57-101 for any crack in the area depicted in Figure 1 of 
Leonardo Helicopters Mandatory Bollettino Tecnico No. 109EP-149, 
109K-72, 109S-072, 109SP-105, or 119-080, all dated August 19, 2016, 
as applicable to your model helicopter. If there is any crack, 
replace the bolt with an airworthy bolt before further flight.
    (3) As of the effective date of this AD, installation of a bolt 
having P/N 709-0160-57-101 is allowed, provided that the bolt has 
passed an inspection as required by paragraph (g)(2) of this AD.

(h) Alternative Methods of Compliance (AMOCs)

    (1) The Manager, Rotorcraft Standards Branch, FAA, may approve 
AMOCs for this AD. Send your proposal to: Matt Fuller, AD Program 
Manager, Continued Operational Safety Branch, Airworthiness Products 
Section, General Aviation and Rotorcraft Unit, 10101 Hillwood Pkwy., 
Fort Worth, TX 76177; telephone (817) 222-5151; email [email protected].
    (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.

(i) Related Information

    (1) Refer to Mandatory Continuing Airworthiness Information 
European Aviation Safety Agency (now European Union Aviation Safety 
Agency) (EASA) Emergency AD 2016-0173-E, dated August 24, 2016. 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-
2020-0204.
    (2) For more information about this AD, contact Matt Fuller, AD 
Program Manager, Continued Operational Safety Branch, Airworthiness 
Products Section, General Aviation and Rotorcraft Unit, 10101 
Hillwood Pkwy., Fort Worth, TX 76177; telephone (817) 222-5151; 
email [email protected].

(j) Material Incorporated by Reference

    (1) The Director of the Federal Register approved the 
incorporation by reference (IBR) of the service information listed 
in this paragraph under 5 U.S.C. 552(a) and 1 CFR part 51.
    (2) You must use this service information as applicable to do 
the actions required by this AD, unless this AD specifies otherwise.
    (3) The following service information was approved for IBR on 
April 26, 2018 (83 FR 15495, April 11, 2018).
    (i) Leonardo Helicopters Mandatory Bollettino Tecnico No. 109EP-
149, dated August 19, 2016.
    (ii) Leonardo Helicopters Mandatory Bollettino Tecnico No. 109K-
72, dated August 19, 2016.
    (iii) Leonardo Helicopters Mandatory Bollettino Tecnico No. 
109S-072, dated August 19, 2016.
    (iv) Leonardo Helicopters Mandatory Bollettino Tecnico No. 
109SP-105, dated August 19, 2016.
    (v) Leonardo Helicopters Mandatory Bollettino Tecnico No. 119-
080, dated August 19, 2016.
    (4) 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.
    (5) 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. For information on the availability of 
this material at the FAA, call (817) 222-5110.
    (6) You may view this service information that is incorporated 
by reference at the National Archives and Records Administration 
(NARA). For information on the availability of this material at 
NARA, email [email protected], or go to: https://www.archives.gov/federal-register/cfr/ibr-locations.html.

    Issued on July 16, 2020.
Lance T. Gant,
Director, Compliance & Airworthiness Division, Aircraft Certification 
Service.
[FR Doc. 2020-15811 Filed 7-22-20; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE 4910-13-P

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