Airworthiness Directives; Sikorsky Aircraft Corporation Helicopters, 47297-47300 [2020-16405]

Download as PDF Federal Register / Vol. 85, No. 151 / Wednesday, August 5, 2020 / Rules and Regulations (816) 329–4059; fax: (816) 329–4090; email: doug.rudolph@faa.gov. Before using any approved AMOC on any airplane to which the AMOC applies, notify your appropriate principal inspector (PI) in the FAA Flight Standards District Office (FSDO), or lacking a PI, your local FSDO. 2020–16–02 Pilatus Aircraft Ltd.: Amendment 39–21186; Docket No. FAA–2019–0536; Product Identifier 2018–CE–054–AD. (a) Effective Date This AD becomes effective September 9, 2020. (h) Related Information (b) Affected ADs None. (c) Applicability This AD applies to Pilatus Aircraft Ltd. (Pilatus) Models PC–6, PC–6/350, PC–6/350– H1, PC–6/350–H2, PC–6/A, PC–6/A–H1, PC– 6/A–H2, PC–6/B–H2, PC–6/B1–H2, PC–6/ B2–H2, PC–6/B2–H4, PC–6/C–H2, PC–6/C1– H2, PC–6–H1, and PC–6–H2 airplanes, all serial numbers, certificated in any category. Note 1 to paragraph (c) of this AD: These airplanes may also be identified as Fairchild Republic Company airplanes, Fairchild Heli Porter airplanes, or Fairchild-Hiller Corporation airplanes. (d) Subject Air Transport Association of America (ATA) Code 55: Stabilizers. (e) Reason This AD was prompted by mandatory continuing airworthiness information (MCAI) originated by an aviation authority of another country to identify and correct an unsafe condition on an aviation product. The MCAI describes the unsafe condition as rudder shaft assemblies with incorrect rivet configuration. The FAA is issuing this AD to prevent rudder shaft assembly failure, which could result in reduced control of the airplane. jbell on DSKJLSW7X2PROD with RULES (f) Actions and Compliance Unless already done, do the following actions in paragraphs (f)(1) and (2) of this AD: (1) Within the next 100 hours time-inservice after September 9, 2020 (the effective date of this AD) or within the next 12 months after September 9, 2020 (the effective date of this AD), whichever occurs first, inspect the rudder shaft assembly for proper rivet configuration and repair any discrepancies before further flight in accordance with the Accomplishment Instructions—Part 1, paragraph 3.B. and table 1, of Pilatus PC–6 Service Bulletin No: 27–006, Rev. No. 1, dated September 4, 2018. (2) After September 9, 2020 (the effective date of this AD), do not install a rudder shaft assembly on any airplane unless it has been inspected in accordance with paragraph (f)(1) of this AD and found to be free of discrepancies or all discrepancies have been repaired or replaced. (g) Alternative Methods of Compliance (AMOCs) The Manager, Small Airplane Standards Branch, FAA, has the authority to approve AMOCs for this AD, if requested using the procedures found in 14 CFR 39.19. Send information to ATTN: Doug Rudolph, Aerospace Engineer, FAA, Small Airplane Standards Branch, 901 Locust, Room 301, Kansas City, Missouri 64106; telephone: VerDate Sep<11>2014 15:55 Aug 04, 2020 Jkt 250001 Refer to MCAI European Aviation Safety Agency AD No. 2018–0222, dated October 19, 2018, for related information. The MCAI can be found in the AD docket on the internet at: https://www.regulations.gov by searching for and locating Docket No. FAA– 2019–0536. (i) 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) Pilatus PC–6 Service Bulletin No: 27– 006, Rev. No. 1, dated September 4, 2018. (ii) [Reserved] (3) For service information identified in this AD, contact Pilatus Aircraft Ltd., Customer Technical Support (MCC), P.O. Box 992, CH–6371 Stans, Switzerland; phone: +41 (0)41 619 67 74; fax: +41 (0)41 619 67 73; email: techsupport@pilatus-aircraft.com; internet: https://www.pilatus-aircraft.com. (4) You may view this service information at the FAA, Airworthiness Products Section, Operational Safety Branch, Airworthiness Products Section, 901 Locust, Kansas City, Missouri 64106. For information on the availability of this material at the FAA, call (816) 329–4148. It is also available on the internet at https://www.regulations.gov by searching for and locating Docket No. FAA– 2019–0536. (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/ ibr-locations.html. Issued on July 28, 2020. Gaetano A. Sciortino, Deputy Director for Strategic Initiatives, Compliance & Airworthiness Division, Aircraft Certification Service. [FR Doc. 2020–16989 Filed 8–4–20; 8:45 am] BILLING CODE 4910–13–P PO 00000 Frm 00005 Fmt 4700 Sfmt 4700 47297 DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION Federal Aviation Administration 14 CFR Part 39 [Docket No. FAA–2020–0212; Product Identifier 2018–SW–097–AD; Amendment 39–21180; AD 2020–15–17] RIN 2120–AA64 Airworthiness Directives; Sikorsky Aircraft Corporation Helicopters Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), DOT. ACTION: Final rule. AGENCY: The FAA is adopting a new airworthiness directive (AD) for certain Sikorsky Aircraft Corporation Model S– 76C helicopters. This AD was prompted by reports of inaccurate main gear box (MGB) indications in flight. This AD requires updating the remote data acquisition unit (RDAU) software and re-identifying the RDAU and, for certain helicopters, updating the software of the display unit (DU) and re-identifying the DU. The FAA is issuing this AD to address the unsafe condition on these products. SUMMARY: This AD is effective September 9, 2020. The Director of the Federal Register approved the incorporation by reference of certain publications listed in this AD as of September 9, 2020. ADDRESSES: For service information identified in this final rule, contact your local Sikorsky Field Representative or Sikorsky’s Service Engineering Group at Sikorsky Aircraft Corporation, 124 Quarry Road, Trumbull, CT 06611; phone: 1–800–946–4337 (1–800– Winged–S); email: wcs_cust_service_ eng.gr-sik@lmco.com. Operators may also log on to the Sikorsky 360 website at https://www.sikorsky360.com. 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. DATES: 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– 0212; 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 E:\FR\FM\05AUR1.SGM 05AUR1 47298 Federal Register / Vol. 85, No. 151 / Wednesday, August 5, 2020 / Rules and Regulations Transportation, Docket Operations, M– 30, West Building Ground Floor, Room W12–140, 1200 New Jersey Avenue SE, Washington, DC 20590. FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Min Zhang, Aviation Safety Engineer, Boston ACO Branch, 1200 District Avenue, Burlington, MA 01803; phone: (781) 238–7161; email: min.zhang@faa.gov. SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: 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. Discussion The FAA issued a notice of proposed rulemaking (NPRM) to amend 14 CFR part 39 by adding an AD that would apply to certain Sikorsky Aircraft Corporation Model S–76C helicopters. The NPRM published in the Federal Register on April 6, 2020 (85 FR 19110). The NPRM was prompted by reports of inaccurate MGB indications in flight. The NPRM proposed to require updating the RDAU software and reidentifying the RDAU and, for certain helicopters, updating the software of the DU and re-identifying the DU. The FAA is issuing this AD to address inaccurate MGB indications in flight, resulting in multiple erroneous values/ annunciations on channel B, which could cause the flight crew to land immediately, and consequent possible loss of the helicopter, injury, or fatality. Related Service Information Under 1 CFR Part 51 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 The FAA reviewed the following Sikorsky service information. Alert Service Bulletin 76–31–3, Revision B, dated June 26, 2018; Alert Service Bulletin 76–31–4, Revision A, dated May 30, 2018; and Alert Service Bulletin 76–31–5, dated July 31, 2018. This service information describes procedures for updating the RDAU software and re-identifying the RDAU. This service information also describes procedures for sending the inspection results to Sikorsky Aircraft Corporation. These documents are distinct since they apply to specific helicopter models in different configurations (different part numbered RDAU units). Service Bulletin 76–006, Revision A, dated August 23, 2018. This service information describes procedures for updating the software of DU part number 76450–01098–101, and reidentifying the DU as part number 76450–01098–108. This service information also describes procedures for sending the inspection results to Sikorsky Aircraft Corporation. 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 Service Information The service information recommends accomplishing the update of the RDAU software and re-identification of the RDAU and, for certain helicopters, update of the software of the DU and reidentification of the DU, depending on service information, no later than a specific calendar date (April 30, 2019 for Alert Service Bulletin 76–31–3, Revision B, dated June 26, 2018; June 30, 2019 for Alert Service Bulletin 76– 31–4, Revision A, dated May 30, 2018; or July 31, 2019 for Alert Service Bulletin 76–31–5, dated July 31, 2018). In developing an appropriate compliance time for this AD, the FAA considered factors including the manufacturer’s recommendation, the degree of urgency associated with the subject unsafe condition, and the average utilization of the affected fleet. After considering these factors, the FAA finds that a 500 hours time-in-service compliance time (which is approximately one year based on the average annual flight hours for Sikorsky Aircraft Corporation Model S–76C helicopters) represents an appropriate interval of time for affected helicopters to continue to operate without compromising safety. Costs of Compliance The FAA estimates that this AD affects 99 helicopters of U.S. registry. The FAA estimates the following costs to comply with this AD: ESTIMATED COSTS FOR REQUIRED ACTIONS Action Labor cost Update RDAU software (99 helicopters) ........ Update display units (52 helicopters) ............. Reporting (99 helicopters) .............................. 3 work-hours × $85 per hour = $255 ............. 7 work-hours × $85 per hour = $595 ............. 1 work-hour × $85 per hour = $85 ................. Cost per product Parts cost (*) (*) $0 $255 595 85 Cost on U.S. operators $25,245 30,940 8,415 jbell on DSKJLSW7X2PROD with RULES * The FAA has received no definitive data that would enable the FAA to provide parts cost estimates for the actions specified in this AD. 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. Paperwork Reduction Act A federal agency may not conduct or sponsor, and a person is not required to respond to, nor shall a person be subject VerDate Sep<11>2014 15:55 Aug 04, 2020 Jkt 250001 to penalty for failure to comply with a collection of information subject to the requirements of the Paperwork Reduction Act unless that collection of information displays a current valid OMB control number. The control number for the collection of information required by this AD is 2120–0056. The paperwork cost associated with this AD has been detailed in the Costs of Compliance section of this document and includes time for reviewing instructions, as well as completing and PO 00000 Frm 00006 Fmt 4700 Sfmt 4700 reviewing the collection of information. Therefore, all reporting associated with this AD is mandatory. Comments concerning the accuracy of this burden and suggestions for reducing the burden should be directed to Information Collection Clearance Officer, Federal Aviation Administration, 10101 Hillwood Parkway, Fort Worth, TX 76177–1524. Authority for This Rulemaking Title 49 of the United States Code specifies the FAA’s authority to issue E:\FR\FM\05AUR1.SGM 05AUR1 Federal Register / Vol. 85, No. 151 / Wednesday, August 5, 2020 / Rules and Regulations 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 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): jbell on DSKJLSW7X2PROD with RULES ■ 2020–15–17 Sikorsky Aircraft Corporation: Amendment 39–21180; Docket No. FAA–2020–0212; Product Identifier 2018–SW–097–AD. VerDate Sep<11>2014 15:55 Aug 04, 2020 Jkt 250001 (a) Effective Date This AD is effective September 9, 2020. (b) Affected ADs None. (c) Applicability This AD applies to Sikorsky Aircraft Corporation Model S–76C helicopters, certificated in any category, equipped with remote data acquisition unit (RDAU) part number 76450–01098–106, 76450–01098– 107, or 76450–01098–109. (d) Subject Joint Aircraft Service Component (JASC) Code 3100, Indicating/recording system. (e) Unsafe Condition This AD was prompted by reports of inaccurate main gear box (MGB) indications in flight. The FAA is issuing this AD to address inaccurate MGB indications in flight, resulting in multiple erroneous values/ annunciations on channel B, which could cause the flight crew to land immediately, and consequent possible loss of the helicopter, injury, or fatality. (f) Compliance Comply with this AD within the compliance times specified, unless already done. (g) RDAU and Display Unit (DU) Updates Within 500 hours time-in-service after the effective date of this AD, do the actions specified in paragraphs (g)(1) through (4) of this AD, as applicable to your helicopter. (1) For helicopters equipped with RDAU part number 76450–01098–109, update the RDAU software and re-identify the RDAU in accordance with Section 3., Paragraphs A. through J. of the Accomplishment Instructions of Sikorsky Alert Service Bulletin 76–31–3, Revision B, dated June 26, 2018, except you are not required to return the RDAU to Parker Fluid Systems Division (FSD). (2) For helicopters equipped with RDAU part number 76450–01098–107, update the RDAU software and re-identify the RDAU in accordance with Section 3., Paragraphs A. through J. of the Accomplishment Instructions of Sikorsky Alert Service Bulletin 76–31–4, Revision A, dated May 30, 2018, except you are not required to return the RDAU to Parker FSD. (3) For helicopters equipped with RDAU part number 76450–01098–106, update the RDAU software and re-identify the RDAU in accordance with Section 3., Paragraphs A. through K. of the Accomplishment Instructions of Sikorsky Alert Service Bulletin 76–31–5, dated July 31, 2018, except you are not required to return the RDAU to Parker FSD. (4) For helicopters equipped with RDAU part number 76450–01098–106, update the software of DU part number 76450–01098– 101 and re-identify the DU as part number 76450–01098–108, in accordance with Section 3., Paragraphs A. through J. of the Accomplishment Instructions of Sikorsky Service Bulletin 76–006, Revision A, dated August 23, 2018, except you are not required to return the DU to Parker FSD. PO 00000 Frm 00007 Fmt 4700 Sfmt 4700 47299 (h) Parts Installation Limitations As of the effective date of this AD, no person may install, on any helicopter, a DU part number 76450–01098–101, unless it has been modified in accordance with the requirements of paragraph (g)(4) of this AD. (i) Reporting At the applicable time specified in paragraph (i)(1) or (2) of this AD, submit a report of compliance with the actions specified in paragraphs (g)(1) through (4) of this AD, as applicable to your helicopter. The report must include the document number and title of the service information used, the owner and/or operator of the helicopter, the submitter’s name, date, and the helicopter serial number. Submit the report to Sikorsky Aircraft Corporation in accordance with Section 3., Paragraph A. (Record of Compliance) of the Accomplishment Instructions of Sikorsky Alert Service Bulletin 76–31–3, Revision B, dated June 26, 2018; Section 3., Paragraph L. of the Accomplishment Instructions of Sikorsky Alert Service Bulletin 76–31–4, Revision A, dated May 30, 2018; Section 3., Paragraph M. of the Accomplishment Instructions of Sikorsky Alert Service Bulletin 76–31–5, dated July 31, 2018; or Section 3., Paragraph L. of the Accomplishment Instructions of Sikorsky Service Bulletin 76–006, Revision A, dated August 23, 2018, as applicable to your helicopter. (1) If the action was done on or after the effective date of this AD: Submit the report within 30 days after the inspection. (2) If the action was done before the effective date of this AD: Submit the report within 30 days after the effective date of this AD. (j) Credit for Previous Actions (1) This paragraph provides credit for the actions required by paragraphs (g)(1) and (i) of this AD, if those actions were performed before the effective date of this AD using Sikorsky Alert Service Bulletin 76–31–3, dated March 2, 2018; or Sikorsky Alert Service Bulletin 76–31–3, Revision A, dated March 29, 2018. (2) This paragraph provides credit for the actions required by paragraphs (g)(2) and (i) of this AD, if those actions were performed before the effective date of this AD using Sikorsky Alert Service Bulletin 76–31–4, dated May 17, 2018. (3) This paragraph provides credit for the actions required by paragraphs (g)(4) and (i) of this AD, if those actions were performed before the effective date of this AD using Sikorsky Service Bulletin 76–006, dated July 26, 2018. (k) Paperwork Reduction Act Burden Statement A federal agency may not conduct or sponsor, and a person is not required to respond to, nor shall a person be subject to a penalty for failure to comply with a collection of information subject to the requirements of the Paperwork Reduction Act unless that collection of information displays a current valid OMB Control Number. The OMB Control Number for this information collection is 2120–0056. Public E:\FR\FM\05AUR1.SGM 05AUR1 47300 Federal Register / Vol. 85, No. 151 / Wednesday, August 5, 2020 / Rules and Regulations reporting for this collection of information is estimated to be approximately 1 hour per response, including the time for reviewing instructions, searching existing data sources, gathering and maintaining the data needed, and completing and reviewing the collection of information. All responses to this collection of information are mandatory. Send comments regarding this burden estimate or any other aspect of this collection of information, including suggestions for reducing this burden to Information Collection Clearance Officer, Federal Aviation Administration, 10101 Hillwood Parkway, Fort Worth, TX 76177–1524. information on the availability of this material at the FAA, call 817–222–5110. (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. (l) Alternative Methods of Compliance (AMOCs) (1) The Manager, Boston 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 (m)(1) of this AD. (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. [FR Doc. 2020–16405 Filed 8–4–20; 8:45 am] jbell on DSKJLSW7X2PROD with RULES (m) Related Information (1) For more information about this AD, contact Min Zhang, Aviation Safety Engineer, Boston ACO Branch, 1200 District Avenue, Burlington, MA 01803; phone: (781) 238– 7161; email: min.zhang@faa.gov. (2) Service information identified in this AD that is not incorporated by reference is available at the addresses specified in paragraphs (n)(3) and (4) of this AD. (n) 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) Sikorsky Alert Service Bulletin 76–31– 3, Revision B, dated June 26, 2018. (ii) Sikorsky Alert Service Bulletin 76–31– 4, Revision A, dated May 30, 2018. (iii) Sikorsky Alert Service Bulletin 76–31– 5, dated July 31, 2018. (iv) Sikorsky Service Bulletin 76–006, Revision A, dated August 23, 2018. (3) For service information identified in this AD, contact your local Sikorsky Field Representative or Sikorsky’s Service Engineering Group at Sikorsky Aircraft Corporation, 124 Quarry Road, Trumbull, CT 06611; phone: 1–800–946–4337 (1–800Winged-S); email: wcs_cust_service_eng.grsik@lmco.com. Operators may also log on to the Sikorsky 360 website at https:// www.sikorsky360.com. (4) 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 VerDate Sep<11>2014 15:55 Aug 04, 2020 Jkt 250001 Issued on July 16, 2020. Lance T. Gant, Director, Compliance & Airworthiness Division, Aircraft Certification Service. BILLING CODE 4910–13–P DEPARTMENT OF HOUSING AND URBAN DEVELOPMENT 24 CFR Part 214 [Docket No. FR–6215–I–02] RIN 2502–ZA34 Housing Counseling Program: Revision of the Certification Timeline Office of the Assistant Secretary for Housing—Federal Housing Commissioner, HUD. ACTION: Interim final rule. AGENCY: HUD’s current rule states that participating agencies and counselors must comply with certification requirements by 36 months after HUD commences the administration of the certification examination. That 36month grace period ends on August 1, 2020. Due to the COVID–19 national emergency, which has caused the shutdown of the testing centers where housing counselors take the certification examination, a large number of housing counselors will be unable to get certified by the end of the grace period, resulting in a loss of Federal funding for some HUD-approved housing counseling agencies and loss of the ability to provide counseling that is required or provided in numerous HUD programs. Therefore, this interim rule amends the time period in which to become certified to a new deadline of August 1, 2021. DATES: This extension of the August 1, 2020 housing counseling certification deadline was effective upon the posting of HUD’s interim rule. For purposes of providing valid notice of the contents of the interim final rule for any person who has not had actual knowledge of it the effective date is August 5, 2020. Comment due date: September 4, 2020. SUMMARY: Interested persons are invited to submit comments regarding ADDRESSES: PO 00000 Frm 00008 Fmt 4700 Sfmt 4700 this interim final rule. All communications must refer to the above docket number and title. There are two methods for submitting public comments. 1. Submission of Comments by Mail. Comments may be submitted by mail to the Regulations Division, Office of General Counsel, U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development, 451 7th Street SW, Room 10276, Washington, DC 20410–0500. 2. Electronic Submission of Comments. Interested persons may submit comments electronically through the Federal eRulemaking Portal at www.regulations.gov. HUD strongly encourages commenters to submit comments electronically. Electronic submission of comments allows the commenter maximum time to prepare and submit a comment, ensures timely receipt by HUD, and enables HUD to make comments immediately available to the public. Comments submitted electronically through the www.regulations.gov website can be viewed by other commenters and interested members of the public. Commenters should follow the instructions provided on that site to submit comments electronically. Note: To receive consideration as public comments, comments must be submitted through one of the two methods specified above. Again, all submissions must refer to the docket number and title of the rule. No Facsimiled Comments. Facsimiled (faxed) comments are not acceptable. Public Inspection of Public Comments. Copies of all comments submitted are available for inspection and downloading at www.regulations.gov. In addition, all properly submitted comments and communications submitted to HUD will be available for public inspection and copying between 8 a.m. and 5 p.m., weekdays, at the above address. Due to security measures at the HUD Headquarters building, an advance appointment to review the public comments must be scheduled by calling the Regulations Division at 202–708– 3055 (this is not a toll-free number). Individuals with speech or hearing impairments may access this number via TTY by calling the Federal Relay Service at 800–877–8339 (this is a tollfree number). FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Lorraine Griscavage-Frisbee at Office of Housing Counseling, Office of Housing, Department of Housing and Urban Development, 302 Carson Street, Las Vegas, Nevada 89101, telephone number 702–366–2160 (this is not a toll-free number). Persons with hearing or E:\FR\FM\05AUR1.SGM 05AUR1

Agencies

[Federal Register Volume 85, Number 151 (Wednesday, August 5, 2020)]
[Rules and Regulations]
[Pages 47297-47300]
From the Federal Register Online via the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]
[FR Doc No: 2020-16405]


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

DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION

Federal Aviation Administration

14 CFR Part 39

[Docket No. FAA-2020-0212; Product Identifier 2018-SW-097-AD; Amendment 
39-21180; AD 2020-15-17]
RIN 2120-AA64


Airworthiness Directives; Sikorsky Aircraft Corporation 
Helicopters

AGENCY: Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), DOT.

ACTION: Final rule.

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

SUMMARY: The FAA is adopting a new airworthiness directive (AD) for 
certain Sikorsky Aircraft Corporation Model S-76C helicopters. This AD 
was prompted by reports of inaccurate main gear box (MGB) indications 
in flight. This AD requires updating the remote data acquisition unit 
(RDAU) software and re-identifying the RDAU and, for certain 
helicopters, updating the software of the display unit (DU) and re-
identifying the DU. The FAA is issuing this AD to address the unsafe 
condition on these products.

DATES: This AD is effective September 9, 2020.
    The Director of the Federal Register approved the incorporation by 
reference of certain publications listed in this AD as of September 9, 
2020.

ADDRESSES: For service information identified in this final rule, 
contact your local Sikorsky Field Representative or Sikorsky's Service 
Engineering Group at Sikorsky Aircraft Corporation, 124 Quarry Road, 
Trumbull, CT 06611; phone: 1-800-946-4337 (1-800-Winged-S); email: 
[email protected]. Operators may also log on to the 
Sikorsky 360 website at https://www.sikorsky360.com. 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.

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-
0212; 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

[[Page 47298]]

Transportation, Docket Operations, M-30, West Building Ground Floor, 
Room W12-140, 1200 New Jersey Avenue SE, Washington, DC 20590.

FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Min Zhang, Aviation Safety Engineer, 
Boston ACO Branch, 1200 District Avenue, Burlington, MA 01803; phone: 
(781) 238-7161; email: [email protected].

SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: 

Discussion

    The FAA issued a notice of proposed rulemaking (NPRM) to amend 14 
CFR part 39 by adding an AD that would apply to certain Sikorsky 
Aircraft Corporation Model S-76C helicopters. The NPRM published in the 
Federal Register on April 6, 2020 (85 FR 19110). The NPRM was prompted 
by reports of inaccurate MGB indications in flight. The NPRM proposed 
to require updating the RDAU software and re-identifying the RDAU and, 
for certain helicopters, updating the software of the DU and re-
identifying the DU.
    The FAA is issuing this AD to address inaccurate MGB indications in 
flight, resulting in multiple erroneous values/annunciations on channel 
B, which could cause the flight crew to land immediately, and 
consequent possible loss of the helicopter, injury, or fatality.

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

    The FAA reviewed the following Sikorsky service information.
    Alert Service Bulletin 76-31-3, Revision B, dated June 26, 2018; 
Alert Service Bulletin 76-31-4, Revision A, dated May 30, 2018; and 
Alert Service Bulletin 76-31-5, dated July 31, 2018. This service 
information describes procedures for updating the RDAU software and re-
identifying the RDAU. This service information also describes 
procedures for sending the inspection results to Sikorsky Aircraft 
Corporation. These documents are distinct since they apply to specific 
helicopter models in different configurations (different part numbered 
RDAU units).
    Service Bulletin 76-006, Revision A, dated August 23, 2018. This 
service information describes procedures for updating the software of 
DU part number 76450-01098-101, and re-identifying the DU as part 
number 76450-01098-108. This service information also describes 
procedures for sending the inspection results to Sikorsky Aircraft 
Corporation.
    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 Service Information

    The service information recommends accomplishing the update of the 
RDAU software and re-identification of the RDAU and, for certain 
helicopters, update of the software of the DU and re-identification of 
the DU, depending on service information, no later than a specific 
calendar date (April 30, 2019 for Alert Service Bulletin 76-31-3, 
Revision B, dated June 26, 2018; June 30, 2019 for Alert Service 
Bulletin 76-31-4, Revision A, dated May 30, 2018; or July 31, 2019 for 
Alert Service Bulletin 76-31-5, dated July 31, 2018). In developing an 
appropriate compliance time for this AD, the FAA considered factors 
including the manufacturer's recommendation, the degree of urgency 
associated with the subject unsafe condition, and the average 
utilization of the affected fleet. After considering these factors, the 
FAA finds that a 500 hours time-in-service compliance time (which is 
approximately one year based on the average annual flight hours for 
Sikorsky Aircraft Corporation Model S-76C helicopters) represents an 
appropriate interval of time for affected helicopters to continue to 
operate without compromising safety.

Costs of Compliance

    The FAA estimates that this AD affects 99 helicopters of U.S. 
registry. The FAA estimates the following costs to comply with this AD:

                                      Estimated Costs for Required Actions
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                                     Cost per      Cost on U.S.
                Action                         Labor cost           Parts cost        product        operators
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Update RDAU software (99 helicopters).  3 work-hours x $85 per               (*)            $255         $25,245
                                         hour = $255.
Update display units (52 helicopters).  7 work-hours x $85 per               (*)             595          30,940
                                         hour = $595.
Reporting (99 helicopters)............  1 work-hour x $85 per                 $0              85           8,415
                                         hour = $85.
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
* The FAA has received no definitive data that would enable the FAA to provide parts cost estimates for the
  actions specified in this AD.

    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.

Paperwork Reduction Act

    A federal agency may not conduct or sponsor, and a person is not 
required to respond to, nor shall a person be subject to penalty for 
failure to comply with a collection of information subject to the 
requirements of the Paperwork Reduction Act unless that collection of 
information displays a current valid OMB control number. The control 
number for the collection of information required by this AD is 2120-
0056. The paperwork cost associated with this AD has been detailed in 
the Costs of Compliance section of this document and includes time for 
reviewing instructions, as well as completing and reviewing the 
collection of information. Therefore, all reporting associated with 
this AD is mandatory. Comments concerning the accuracy of this burden 
and suggestions for reducing the burden should be directed to 
Information Collection Clearance Officer, Federal Aviation 
Administration, 10101 Hillwood Parkway, Fort Worth, TX 76177-1524.

Authority for This Rulemaking

    Title 49 of the United States Code specifies the FAA's authority to 
issue

[[Page 47299]]

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 adding the following new airworthiness 
directive (AD):

2020-15-17 Sikorsky Aircraft Corporation: Amendment 39-21180; Docket 
No. FAA-2020-0212; Product Identifier 2018-SW-097-AD.

(a) Effective Date

    This AD is effective September 9, 2020.

(b) Affected ADs

    None.

(c) Applicability

    This AD applies to Sikorsky Aircraft Corporation Model S-76C 
helicopters, certificated in any category, equipped with remote data 
acquisition unit (RDAU) part number 76450-01098-106, 76450-01098-
107, or 76450-01098-109.

(d) Subject

    Joint Aircraft Service Component (JASC) Code 3100, Indicating/
recording system.

(e) Unsafe Condition

    This AD was prompted by reports of inaccurate main gear box 
(MGB) indications in flight. The FAA is issuing this AD to address 
inaccurate MGB indications in flight, resulting in multiple 
erroneous values/annunciations on channel B, which could cause the 
flight crew to land immediately, and consequent possible loss of the 
helicopter, injury, or fatality.

(f) Compliance

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

(g) RDAU and Display Unit (DU) Updates

    Within 500 hours time-in-service after the effective date of 
this AD, do the actions specified in paragraphs (g)(1) through (4) 
of this AD, as applicable to your helicopter.
    (1) For helicopters equipped with RDAU part number 76450-01098-
109, update the RDAU software and re-identify the RDAU in accordance 
with Section 3., Paragraphs A. through J. of the Accomplishment 
Instructions of Sikorsky Alert Service Bulletin 76-31-3, Revision B, 
dated June 26, 2018, except you are not required to return the RDAU 
to Parker Fluid Systems Division (FSD).
    (2) For helicopters equipped with RDAU part number 76450-01098-
107, update the RDAU software and re-identify the RDAU in accordance 
with Section 3., Paragraphs A. through J. of the Accomplishment 
Instructions of Sikorsky Alert Service Bulletin 76-31-4, Revision A, 
dated May 30, 2018, except you are not required to return the RDAU 
to Parker FSD.
    (3) For helicopters equipped with RDAU part number 76450-01098-
106, update the RDAU software and re-identify the RDAU in accordance 
with Section 3., Paragraphs A. through K. of the Accomplishment 
Instructions of Sikorsky Alert Service Bulletin 76-31-5, dated July 
31, 2018, except you are not required to return the RDAU to Parker 
FSD.
    (4) For helicopters equipped with RDAU part number 76450-01098-
106, update the software of DU part number 76450-01098-101 and re-
identify the DU as part number 76450-01098-108, in accordance with 
Section 3., Paragraphs A. through J. of the Accomplishment 
Instructions of Sikorsky Service Bulletin 76-006, Revision A, dated 
August 23, 2018, except you are not required to return the DU to 
Parker FSD.

(h) Parts Installation Limitations

    As of the effective date of this AD, no person may install, on 
any helicopter, a DU part number 76450-01098-101, unless it has been 
modified in accordance with the requirements of paragraph (g)(4) of 
this AD.

(i) Reporting

    At the applicable time specified in paragraph (i)(1) or (2) of 
this AD, submit a report of compliance with the actions specified in 
paragraphs (g)(1) through (4) of this AD, as applicable to your 
helicopter. The report must include the document number and title of 
the service information used, the owner and/or operator of the 
helicopter, the submitter's name, date, and the helicopter serial 
number. Submit the report to Sikorsky Aircraft Corporation in 
accordance with Section 3., Paragraph A. (Record of Compliance) of 
the Accomplishment Instructions of Sikorsky Alert Service Bulletin 
76-31-3, Revision B, dated June 26, 2018; Section 3., Paragraph L. 
of the Accomplishment Instructions of Sikorsky Alert Service 
Bulletin 76-31-4, Revision A, dated May 30, 2018; Section 3., 
Paragraph M. of the Accomplishment Instructions of Sikorsky Alert 
Service Bulletin 76-31-5, dated July 31, 2018; or Section 3., 
Paragraph L. of the Accomplishment Instructions of Sikorsky Service 
Bulletin 76-006, Revision A, dated August 23, 2018, as applicable to 
your helicopter.
    (1) If the action was done on or after the effective date of 
this AD: Submit the report within 30 days after the inspection.
    (2) If the action was done before the effective date of this AD: 
Submit the report within 30 days after the effective date of this 
AD.

(j) Credit for Previous Actions

    (1) This paragraph provides credit for the actions required by 
paragraphs (g)(1) and (i) of this AD, if those actions were 
performed before the effective date of this AD using Sikorsky Alert 
Service Bulletin 76-31-3, dated March 2, 2018; or Sikorsky Alert 
Service Bulletin 76-31-3, Revision A, dated March 29, 2018.
    (2) This paragraph provides credit for the actions required by 
paragraphs (g)(2) and (i) of this AD, if those actions were 
performed before the effective date of this AD using Sikorsky Alert 
Service Bulletin 76-31-4, dated May 17, 2018.
    (3) This paragraph provides credit for the actions required by 
paragraphs (g)(4) and (i) of this AD, if those actions were 
performed before the effective date of this AD using Sikorsky 
Service Bulletin 76-006, dated July 26, 2018.

(k) Paperwork Reduction Act Burden Statement

    A federal agency may not conduct or sponsor, and a person is not 
required to respond to, nor shall a person be subject to a penalty 
for failure to comply with a collection of information subject to 
the requirements of the Paperwork Reduction Act unless that 
collection of information displays a current valid OMB Control 
Number. The OMB Control Number for this information collection is 
2120-0056. Public

[[Page 47300]]

reporting for this collection of information is estimated to be 
approximately 1 hour per response, including the time for reviewing 
instructions, searching existing data sources, gathering and 
maintaining the data needed, and completing and reviewing the 
collection of information. All responses to this collection of 
information are mandatory. Send comments regarding this burden 
estimate or any other aspect of this collection of information, 
including suggestions for reducing this burden to Information 
Collection Clearance Officer, Federal Aviation Administration, 10101 
Hillwood Parkway, Fort Worth, TX 76177-1524.

(l) Alternative Methods of Compliance (AMOCs)

    (1) The Manager, Boston 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 (m)(1) of this AD.
    (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.

(m) Related Information

    (1) For more information about this AD, contact Min Zhang, 
Aviation Safety Engineer, Boston ACO Branch, 1200 District Avenue, 
Burlington, MA 01803; phone: (781) 238-7161; email: 
[email protected].
    (2) Service information identified in this AD that is not 
incorporated by reference is available at the addresses specified in 
paragraphs (n)(3) and (4) of this AD.

(n) 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) Sikorsky Alert Service Bulletin 76-31-3, Revision B, dated 
June 26, 2018.
    (ii) Sikorsky Alert Service Bulletin 76-31-4, Revision A, dated 
May 30, 2018.
    (iii) Sikorsky Alert Service Bulletin 76-31-5, dated July 31, 
2018.
    (iv) Sikorsky Service Bulletin 76-006, Revision A, dated August 
23, 2018.
    (3) For service information identified in this AD, contact your 
local Sikorsky Field Representative or Sikorsky's Service 
Engineering Group at Sikorsky Aircraft Corporation, 124 Quarry Road, 
Trumbull, CT 06611; phone: 1-800-946-4337 (1-800-Winged-S); email: 
[email protected]. Operators may also log on to 
the Sikorsky 360 website at https://www.sikorsky360.com.
    (4) 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.
    (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 [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. 2020-16405 Filed 8-4-20; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE 4910-13-P
This site is protected by reCAPTCHA and the Google Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply.