Airworthiness Directives; Leonardo S.p.a. Helicopters (Type Certificate Previously Held by Agusta S.p.A.), 57165-57168 [2020-20228]

Download as PDF jbell on DSKJLSW7X2PROD with PROPOSALS Federal Register / Vol. 85, No. 179 / Tuesday, September 15, 2020 / Proposed Rules documents submitted with the comments. Do not submit to https:// www.regulations.gov information for which disclosure is restricted by statute, such as trade secrets and commercial or financial information (hereinafter referred to as Confidential Business Information (CBI)). Comments submitted through https:// www.regulations.gov cannot be claimed as CBI. Comments received through the website will waive any CBI claims for the information submitted. For information on submitting CBI, see the Confidential Business Information section. DOE processes submissions made through https://www.regulations.gov before posting. Normally, comments will be posted within a few days of being submitted. However, if large volumes of comments are being processed simultaneously, your comment may not be viewable for up to several weeks. Please keep the comment tracking number that https:// www.regulations.gov provides after you have successfully uploaded your comment. Submitting comments via email, hand delivery/courier, or postal mail. Comments and documents submitted via email, hand delivery/courier, or mail also will be posted to https:// www.regulations.gov. If you do not want your personal contact information to be publicly viewable, do not include it in your comment or any accompanying documents. Instead, provide your contact information in a cover letter. Include your first and last names, email address, telephone number, and optional mailing address. The cover letter will not be publicly viewable as long as it does not include any comments. Include contact information each time you submit comments, data, documents, and other information to DOE. If you submit via mail or hand delivery/ courier, please provide all items on a CD, if feasible, in which case it is not necessary to submit printed copies. No telefacsimiles (faxes) will be accepted. Comments, data, and other information submitted to DOE electronically should be provided in PDF (preferred), Microsoft Word or Excel, WordPerfect, or text (ASCII) file format. Provide documents that are not secured, that are written in English, and that are free of any defects or viruses. Documents should not contain special characters or any form of encryption and, if possible, they should carry the electronic signature of the author. Campaign form letters. Please submit campaign form letters by the originating VerDate Sep<11>2014 16:25 Sep 14, 2020 Jkt 250001 organization in batches of between 50 to 500 form letters per PDF or as one form letter with a list of supporters’ names compiled into one or more PDFs. This reduces comment processing and posting time. Confidential Business Information. Pursuant to 10 CFR 1004.11, any person submitting information that he or she believes to be confidential and exempt by law from public disclosure should submit via email, postal mail, or hand delivery/courier two well-marked copies: One copy of the document marked ‘‘confidential’’ including all the information believed to be confidential, and one copy of the document marked ‘‘non-confidential’’ with the information believed to be confidential deleted. Submit these documents via email or on a CD, if feasible. DOE will make its own determination about the confidential status of the information and treat it according to its determination. It is DOE’s policy that all comments may be included in the public docket, without change and as received, including any personal information provided in the comments (except information deemed to be exempt from public disclosure). DOE considers public participation to be a very important part of the process for developing energy conservation standards. DOE actively encourages the participation and interaction of the public during the comment period in each stage of the rulemaking process. Interactions with and between members of the public provide a balanced discussion of the issues and assist DOE in the rulemaking process. Anyone who wishes to be added to the DOE mailing list to receive future notices and information about this process or would like to request a public meeting should contact Appliance and Equipment Standards Program staff at (202) 586– 6636 or via email at ApplianceStandardsQuestions@ ee.doe.gov. VI. Approval of the Office of the Secretary The Secretary of Energy has approved publication of this notice of proposed determination. This document of the Department of Energy was signed on August 21, 2020, by Daniel R Simmons, Assistant Secretary for Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy, pursuant to delegated authority from the Secretary of Energy. That document with the original signature and date is maintained by DOE. For administrative purposes only, and in compliance with requirements of the Office of the Federal Register, the undersigned DOE Federal PO 00000 Frm 00018 Fmt 4702 Sfmt 4702 57165 Register Liaison Officer has been authorized to sign and submit the document in electronic format for publication, as an official document of the Department of Energy. This administrative process in no way alters the legal effect of this document upon publication in the Federal Register. Signed in Washington, DC, on August 21, 2020. Treena V. Garrett, Federal Register Liaison Officer, U.S. Department of Energy. [FR Doc. 2020–18800 Filed 9–14–20; 8:45 am] BILLING CODE 6450–01–P DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION Federal Aviation Administration 14 CFR Part 39 [Docket No. FAA–2020–0797; Product Identifier 2018–SW–081–AD] RIN 2120–AA64 Airworthiness Directives; Leonardo S.p.a. Helicopters (Type Certificate Previously Held by Agusta S.p.A.) Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), DOT. ACTION: Notice of proposed rulemaking (NPRM). AGENCY: The FAA proposes to supersede Airworthiness Directive (AD) 2017–23–08 for Agusta S.p.A. (now Leonardo S.p.a.) Model AB139 and AW139 helicopters. AD 2017–23–08 requires repetitively inspecting the main rotor (M/R) rotating scissors, removing certain lower half scissor spherical bearings (bearings) from service, replacing the removed bearings with a new bearing, and installing a special nut. Since the FAA issued AD 2017–23– 08, investigation results determined that a quality control issue may have affected the production of the affected bearings. This proposed AD would retain the requirements of AD 2017–23– 08 and require replacing each affected bearing with a certain part-numbered bearing. The actions of this proposed AD are intended to address an unsafe condition on these products. DATES: The FAA must receive comments on this proposed AD by October 30, 2020. SUMMARY: You may send comments by any of the following methods: • Federal eRulemaking Docket: Go to https://www.regulations.gov. Follow the online instructions for sending your comments electronically. • Fax: 202–493–2251. ADDRESSES: E:\FR\FM\15SEP1.SGM 15SEP1 57166 Federal Register / Vol. 85, No. 179 / Tuesday, September 15, 2020 / Proposed Rules • Mail: Send comments to the U.S. Department of Transportation, Docket Operations, M–30, West Building Ground Floor, Room W12–140, 1200 New Jersey Avenue SE, Washington, DC 20590–0001. • Hand Delivery: Deliver to the ‘‘Mail’’ address between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m., Monday through Friday, except Federal holidays. Examining the AD Docket You may examine the AD docket on the internet at https:// www.regulations.gov by searching for and locating Docket No. FAA–2020– 0797; or in person at Docket Operations between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m., Monday through Friday, except Federal holidays. The AD docket contains this proposed AD, the European Aviation Safety Agency (now European Union Aviation Safety Agency) (EASA) AD, any comments received and other information. The street address for Docket Operations is listed above. Comments will be available in the AD docket shortly after receipt. For service information identified in this proposed rule, contact Leonardo S.p.a. Helicopters, Emanuele Bufano, Head of Airworthiness, Viale G.Agusta 520, 21017 C.Costa di Samarate (Va) Italy; telephone +39–0331–225074; fax +39–0331–229046; or at https:// www.leonardocompany.com/en/home. You may view the referenced service information at the FAA, Office of the Regional Counsel, Southwest Region, 10101 Hillwood Pkwy., Room 6N–321, Fort Worth, TX 76177. FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Matt Fuller, AD Program Manager, Continued Operational Safety Branch, Airworthiness Products Section, General Aviation and Rotorcraft Unit, 10101 Hillwood Pkwy., Fort Worth, TX 76177; telephone 817–222–5110; email Matthew.Fuller@faa.gov. SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: jbell on DSKJLSW7X2PROD with PROPOSALS Comments Invited The FAA invites you to participate in this rulemaking by submitting written comments, data, or views. The most helpful comments reference a specific portion of the proposal, explain the reason for any recommended change, and include supporting data. To ensure the docket does not contain duplicate comments, commenters should send only one copy of written comments, or if comments are filed electronically, commenters should submit only one time. Except for Confidential Business Information (CBI) as described in the following paragraph, and other VerDate Sep<11>2014 16:25 Sep 14, 2020 Jkt 250001 information as described in 14 CFR 11.35, the FAA will file in the docket all comments received, as well as a report summarizing each substantive public contact with FAA personnel concerning this proposed rulemaking. Before acting on this proposal, the FAA will consider all comments received on or before the closing date for comments. The FAA will consider comments filed after the comment period has closed if it is possible to do so without incurring expense or delay. The FAA may change this proposal in light of the comments received. EASA advised of a report of a dislodged bearing on an M/R rotating scissor equipped with a certain special nut. EASA EAD 2017–0028–E requires repetitive inspections of certain M/R rotating scissor bearings, and depending on the findings, replacement of the bearing and affected M/R parts. The EASA AD also requires replacement of certain bearings as a terminating action for the repetitive inspections. According to EASA, this condition, could result in failure of the M/R rotating scissor bearing and subsequent loss of control of the helicopter. Confidential Business Information Confidential Business Information (CBI) is commercial or financial information that is both customarily and actually treated as private by its owner. Under the Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) (5 U.S.C. 552), CBI is exempt from public disclosure. If your comments responsive to this NPRM contain commercial or financial information that is customarily treated as private, that you actually treat as private, and that is relevant or responsive to this NPRM, it is important that you clearly designate the submitted comments as CBI. Please mark each page of your submission containing CBI as ‘‘PROPIN.’’ The FAA will treat such marked submissions as confidential under the FOIA, and they will not be placed in the public docket of this NPRM. Submissions containing CBI should be sent 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 817–222–5110; email Matthew.Fuller@faa.gov. Any commentary that the FAA receives which is not specifically designated as CBI will be placed in the public docket for this rulemaking. Actions Since AD 2017–23–08 Was Issued Discussion The FAA issued AD 2017–23–08, Amendment 39–19102 (82 FR 55752, November 24, 2017) (‘‘AD 2017–23–08’’) for Agusta S.p.A. (now Leonardo S.p.a.) Model AB139 and AW139 helicopters. AD 2017–23–08 requires repetitively inspecting the M/R rotating scissors, removing certain bearings from service, installing a special nut and requires replacing the removed bearings with certain part-numbered bearings. AD 2017–23–08 was prompted by EASA Emergency AD (EAD) No. 2017– 0028–E, dated February 15, 2017 (EASA EAD 2017–0028–E) issued by EASA, which is the Technical Agent for the Member States of the European Union. PO 00000 Frm 00019 Fmt 4702 Sfmt 4702 Since the FAA issued AD 2017–23– 08, investigation results by the supplier of the bearings determined that a quality control issue may have affected the production of bearing part number (P/N) 3G6230V00654. Accordingly, this proposed AD retains the requirements of AD 2017–23–08 and proposes replacing bearing P/N 3G6230V00654 with P/N 3G6230V00655. FAA’s Determination These helicopters have been approved by EASA and are approved for operation in the United States. Pursuant to the FAA’s bilateral agreement with the European Union, EASA has notified the FAA of the unsafe condition described in its AD. The FAA is proposing this AD after evaluating all known relevant information and determining that an unsafe condition is likely to exist or develop on other helicopters of the same type design. Differences Between This Proposed AD and the EASA AD The EASA AD specifies some compliance times using calendar time, whereas this proposed AD does not. The EASA AD requires reporting information to Leonardo S.p.a. Product Support Engineering, whereas this proposed AD does not. Related Service Information Under 1 CFR Part 51 The FAA reviewed Leonardo Helicopters Alert Bollettino Tecnico No. 139–392, Revision A, dated February 14, 2017. This service information specifies repetitively inspecting the M/R rotating scissors to monitor the bearings and replacing the bearing with a new partnumbered bearing. This service info also specifies installing a special nut in case of lower scissor bearing dislodging. This service information is reasonably available because the interested parties have access to it through their normal E:\FR\FM\15SEP1.SGM 15SEP1 Federal Register / Vol. 85, No. 179 / Tuesday, September 15, 2020 / Proposed Rules course of business or by the means identified in the ADDRESSES section. Other Related Service Information The FAA reviewed Leonardo Helicopters AW139 IETP Document Code AMP–39–A–62–31–00–00A– 31AC–A, Rotating control installation— Fixed swashplate and rotating scissors— Detailed inspection, Issue 29, dated July 31, 2017, which describes procedures for a detailed inspection of the fixed swashplate and rotating scissors. Proposed AD Requirements This proposed AD would retain the repetitive inspection requirements of AD 2017–23–08, and continue to require replacing the bearing with an improved bearing, replacing the rotating scissor attachment flange with a certain partnumbered rotating scissor attachment flange, and replacing the nut with a certain part-numbered special nut. This proposed AD would also require removing each bearing P/N 3G6230V00654 from service and replacing it with bearing P/N 3G6230V00655 within 100 hours TIS. Costs of Compliance The FAA estimates that this proposed AD would affect 102 helicopters of U.S. Registry. The FAA estimates that operators may incur the following costs in order to comply with this proposed AD. Labor costs are estimated at $85 per work-hour. Inspecting for bearing liner wear, seat movement, and play would take about 1 work-hour for a cost of $85 per helicopter and $8,670 for the U.S. fleet per inspection cycle. Replacing a bearing would take about 2 work-hours and parts would cost about $950 for a cost of $1,120 per bearing. Replacing a rotating scissor attachment flange would take about 0.25 work-hours and parts would cost about $25,629 for a cost of $25,650 per flange. Installing two special nuts would take about 1 work-hour and parts would cost about $755 for a cost of $840 per helicopter and $85,680 for the U.S. fleet. jbell on DSKJLSW7X2PROD with PROPOSALS 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 VerDate Sep<11>2014 16:25 Sep 14, 2020 Jkt 250001 that section, Congress charges the FAA with promoting safe flight of civil aircraft in air commerce by prescribing regulations for practices, methods, and procedures the Administrator finds necessary for safety in air commerce. This regulation is within the scope of that authority because it addresses an unsafe condition that is likely to exist or develop on products identified in this rulemaking action. Regulatory Findings The FAA determined that this proposed AD would not have federalism implications under Executive Order 13132. This proposed AD would not have a substantial direct effect on the States, on the relationship between the national Government and the States, or on the distribution of power and responsibilities among the various levels of government. For the reasons discussed, I certify this proposed regulation: 1. Is not a ‘‘significant regulatory action’’ under Executive Order 12866, 2. Will not affect intrastate aviation in Alaska, and 3. Will not have a significant economic impact, positive or negative, on a substantial number of small entities under the criteria of the Regulatory Flexibility Act. List of Subjects in 14 CFR Part 39 Air transportation, Aircraft, Aviation safety, Incorporation by reference, Safety. The Proposed Amendment Accordingly, under the authority delegated to me by the Administrator, the FAA proposes to amend 14 CFR part 39 as follows: PART 39—AIRWORTHINESS DIRECTIVES 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) 2017–23–08, Amendment 39– 19102 (82 FR 55752, November 24, 2017); and ■ b. Adding the following new AD: ■ ■ Leonardo S.p.a. (Type Certificate Previously Held by Agusta S.p.A.): Docket No. FAA–2020–0797; Product Identifier 2018–SW–081–AD. (a) Applicability This AD applies to Leonardo S.p.a. Model AB139 and AW139 helicopters, certified in any category, with main rotor (M/R) rotating scissors with a lower half scissor spherical PO 00000 Frm 00020 Fmt 4702 Sfmt 4702 57167 bearing (bearing) P/N 3G6230V00654 installed. (b) Unsafe Condition This AD defines the unsafe condition as excessive play of the bearing in the M/R rotating scissors. This condition could result in failure of the M/R rotating scissor bearing and loss of helicopter control. (c) Affected ADs This AD replaces AD 2017–03–08, Amendment 39–19102; (82 FR 55752, November 24, 2017) (‘‘AD 2017–23–08’’). (d) Comments Due Date The FAA must receive comments by October 30, 2020. (e) Compliance You are responsible for performing each action required by this AD within the specified compliance time unless it has already been accomplished prior to that time. (f) Required Actions (1) Within 5 hours time-in-service (TIS) after December 11, 2017 (the effective date of AD 2017–23–08), and thereafter before the first flight of each day or at intervals not exceeding 24-clock hours, whichever occurs later: (i) Using a magnifying glass and a flashlight, visually inspect each bearing for wear of the bearing liner. Some examples of wear are shown in Figures 4 through 8 of Leonardo Helicopters Alert Bollettino Tecnico No. 139–392, Revision A, dated February 14, 2017 (BT 139–392). If there is any wear of the liner, before further flight, replace the bearing with bearing P/N 3G6230V00655 and install special nut P/N 3G6230A06851. Replacing the bearing with bearing P/N 3G6230V00655 constitutes terminating action for the remaining actions of this AD for the bearing. (ii) Inspect each bearing for movement. Refer to Figure 9 of BT 139–392. If the bearing moves freely out of its seat, before further flight, replace the rotating scissor attachment flange with flange P/N 3G6220A00633, replace the bearing with bearing P/N 3G6230V00655 and install special nut P/N 3G6230A06851. Replacing the bearing with bearing P/N 3G6230V00655 constitutes terminating action for the remaining actions of this AD for the bearing. (iii) Inspect the M/R rotating scissors for play and wear of each bearing, paying particular attention to the bearing staking condition, by manually moving the lower half scissor along the axis of the spherical bearing. Refer to Figure 1 of BT 139–392. If there is any play or wear beyond allowable limits, before further flight, replace the bearing with bearing P/N 3G6230V00655 and install special nut P/N 3G6230A06851. Replacing the bearing with bearing P/N 3G6230V00655 constitutes terminating action for the remaining actions of this AD for the bearing. (2) Within 100 hours TIS after the effective date of this AD, replace and torque each lower half scissor nut with special nut P/N 3G6230A06851 to the M/R rotating scissor in accordance with the Compliance Instructions, Part II, steps 5.1 through 5.9 of E:\FR\FM\15SEP1.SGM 15SEP1 57168 Federal Register / Vol. 85, No. 179 / Tuesday, September 15, 2020 / Proposed Rules BT 139–392, except you are not required to discard parts. (3) Within 100 hours TIS after the effective date of this AD, remove each bearing P/N 3G6230V00654 from service and replace with bearing P/N 3G230V00655. (4) After December 11, 2017 (the effective date of AD 2017–23–08), do not install on any helicopter any M/R rotating scissors with a bearing P/N 3G6230V00654 installed. (g) 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 817–222–5110; 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, the FAA suggests that you notify your principal inspector, or lacking a principal inspector, the manager of the local flight standards district office or certificate holding district office before operating any aircraft complying with this AD through an AMOC. (h) Additional Information The subject of this AD is addressed in European Aviation Safety Agency (now European Union Aviation Safety Agency) (EASA) AD No. 2017–0028–E, dated February 15, 2017. You may view the EASA AD on the internet at https:// www.regulations.gov in the AD Docket. (i) Subject Joint Aircraft Service Component (JASC) Code: 6200, Main Rotor System. Issued on September 9, 2020. Lance T. Gant, Director, Compliance & Airworthiness Division, Aircraft Certification Service. [FR Doc. 2020–20228 Filed 9–14–20; 8:45 am] BILLING CODE 4910–13–P DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION Federal Aviation Administration 14 CFR Part 39 [Docket No. FAA–2020–0840; Project Identifier MCAI–2020–00907–T] jbell on DSKJLSW7X2PROD with PROPOSALS RIN 2120–AA64 Airworthiness Directives; Saab AB, Support and Services (Formerly Known as Saab AB, Saab Aeronautics) Airplanes Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), DOT. ACTION: Notice of proposed rulemaking (NPRM). AGENCY: The FAA proposes to adopt a new airworthiness directive (AD) for all SUMMARY: VerDate Sep<11>2014 16:25 Sep 14, 2020 Jkt 250001 Saab AB, Support and Services Model 340A (SAAB/SF340A) and SAAB 340B airplanes; and Model SAAB 2000 airplanes. This proposed AD was prompted by reports that certain nose landing gear (NLG) door attachment bolts are susceptible to hydrogen embrittlement. This proposed AD would require replacing certain NLG door attachment bolts with serviceable bolts, as specified in a European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) AD, which will be incorporated by reference. The FAA is proposing this AD to address the unsafe condition on these products. DATES: The FAA must receive comments on this proposed AD by October 30, 2020. ADDRESSES: You may send comments, using the procedures found in 14 CFR 11.43 and 11.45, by any of the following methods: • Federal eRulemaking Portal: Go to https://www.regulations.gov. Follow the instructions for submitting comments. • Fax: 202–493–2251. • Mail: U.S. Department of Transportation, Docket Operations, M– 30, West Building Ground Floor, Room W12–140, 1200 New Jersey Avenue SE, Washington, DC 20590. • Hand Delivery: Deliver to Mail address above between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m., Monday through Friday, except Federal holidays. For material incorporated by reference (IBR) in this AD, contact the EASA, Konrad-Adenauer-Ufer 3, 50668 Cologne, Germany; telephone +49 221 8999 000; email ADs@easa.europa.eu; internet www.easa.europa.eu. You may find this IBR material on the EASA website at https://ad.easa.europa.eu. You may view this IBR material at the FAA, 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– 0840. 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– 0840; or in person at Docket Operations between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m., Monday through Friday, except Federal holidays. The AD docket contains this NPRM, any comments received, and other information. The street address for Docket Operations is listed above. PO 00000 Frm 00021 Fmt 4702 Sfmt 4702 Comments will be available in the AD docket shortly after receipt. FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Shahram Daneshmandi, Aerospace Engineer, Large Aircraft Section, International Validation Branch, FAA, 2200 South 216th St., Des Moines, WA 98198; telephone and fax 206–231– 3220; email Shahram.Daneshmandi@ faa.gov. SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: Comments Invited The FAA invites you to participate in this rulemaking by submitting written comments, data, or views about this proposal. The most helpful comments reference a specific portion of the proposal, explain the reason for any recommended change, and include supporting data. To ensure the docket does not contain duplicate comments, commenters should send only one copy of written comments, or if comments are filed electronically, commenters should submit only one time. Send your comments to an address listed under the ADDRESSES section. Include ‘‘Docket No. FAA–2020–0840; Project Identifier MCAI–2020–00907–T’’ at the beginning of your comments. Except for Confidential Business Information (CBI) as described in the following paragraph, and other information as described in 14 CFR 11.35, the FAA will post all comments received, without change, as well as a report summarizing each substantive public contact with FAA personnel concerning this proposed rulemaking. Before acting on this proposal, the FAA will consider all comments received by the closing date for comments. The FAA will consider comments filed after the comment period has closed if it is possible to do so without incurring expense or delay. The FAA may change this NPRM because of those comments. Confidential Business Information CBI is commercial or financial information that is both customarily and actually treated as private by its owner. Under the Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) (5 U.S.C. 552), CBI is exempt from public disclosure. If your comments responsive to this NPRM contain commercial or financial information that is customarily treated as private, that you actually treat as private, and that is relevant or responsive to this NPRM, it is important that you clearly designate the submitted comments as CBI. Please mark each page of your submission containing CBI as ‘‘PROPIN.’’ The FAA will treat such marked submissions as confidential under the FOIA, and they will not be E:\FR\FM\15SEP1.SGM 15SEP1

Agencies

[Federal Register Volume 85, Number 179 (Tuesday, September 15, 2020)]
[Proposed Rules]
[Pages 57165-57168]
From the Federal Register Online via the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]
[FR Doc No: 2020-20228]


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DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION

Federal Aviation Administration

14 CFR Part 39

[Docket No. FAA-2020-0797; Product Identifier 2018-SW-081-AD]
RIN 2120-AA64


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

AGENCY: Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), DOT.

ACTION: Notice of proposed rulemaking (NPRM).

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

SUMMARY: The FAA proposes to supersede Airworthiness Directive (AD) 
2017-23-08 for Agusta S.p.A. (now Leonardo S.p.a.) Model AB139 and 
AW139 helicopters. AD 2017-23-08 requires repetitively inspecting the 
main rotor (M/R) rotating scissors, removing certain lower half scissor 
spherical bearings (bearings) from service, replacing the removed 
bearings with a new bearing, and installing a special nut. Since the 
FAA issued AD 2017-23-08, investigation results determined that a 
quality control issue may have affected the production of the affected 
bearings. This proposed AD would retain the requirements of AD 2017-23-
08 and require replacing each affected bearing with a certain part-
numbered bearing. The actions of this proposed AD are intended to 
address an unsafe condition on these products.

DATES: The FAA must receive comments on this proposed AD by October 30, 
2020.

ADDRESSES: You may send comments by any of the following methods:
     Federal eRulemaking Docket: Go to https://www.regulations.gov. Follow the online instructions for sending your 
comments electronically.
     Fax: 202-493-2251.

[[Page 57166]]

     Mail: Send comments to the U.S. Department of 
Transportation, Docket Operations, M-30, West Building Ground Floor, 
Room W12-140, 1200 New Jersey Avenue SE, Washington, DC 20590-0001.
     Hand Delivery: Deliver to the ``Mail'' address between 9 
a.m. and 5 p.m., Monday through Friday, except Federal holidays.

Examining the AD Docket

    You may examine the AD docket on the internet at https://www.regulations.gov by searching for and locating Docket No. FAA-2020-
0797; or in person at Docket Operations between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m., 
Monday through Friday, except Federal holidays. The AD docket contains 
this proposed AD, the European Aviation Safety Agency (now European 
Union Aviation Safety Agency) (EASA) AD, any comments received and 
other information. The street address for Docket Operations is listed 
above. Comments will be available in the AD docket shortly after 
receipt.
    For service information identified in this proposed rule, contact 
Leonardo S.p.a. Helicopters, Emanuele Bufano, Head of Airworthiness, 
Viale G.Agusta 520, 21017 C.Costa di Samarate (Va) Italy; telephone 
+39-0331-225074; fax +39-0331-229046; or at https://www.leonardocompany.com/en/home. You may view the referenced service 
information at the FAA, Office of the Regional Counsel, Southwest 
Region, 10101 Hillwood Pkwy., Room 6N-321, Fort Worth, TX 76177.

FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Matt Fuller, AD Program Manager, 
Continued Operational Safety Branch, Airworthiness Products Section, 
General Aviation and Rotorcraft Unit, 10101 Hillwood Pkwy., Fort Worth, 
TX 76177; telephone 817-222-5110; email [email protected].

SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION:

Comments Invited

    The FAA invites you to participate in this rulemaking by submitting 
written comments, data, or views. The most helpful comments reference a 
specific portion of the proposal, explain the reason for any 
recommended change, and include supporting data. To ensure the docket 
does not contain duplicate comments, commenters should send only one 
copy of written comments, or if comments are filed electronically, 
commenters should submit only one time.
    Except for Confidential Business Information (CBI) as described in 
the following paragraph, and other information as described in 14 CFR 
11.35, the FAA will file in the docket all comments received, as well 
as a report summarizing each substantive public contact with FAA 
personnel concerning this proposed rulemaking. Before acting on this 
proposal, the FAA will consider all comments received on or before the 
closing date for comments. The FAA will consider comments filed after 
the comment period has closed if it is possible to do so without 
incurring expense or delay. The FAA may change this proposal in light 
of the comments received.

Confidential Business Information

    Confidential Business Information (CBI) is commercial or financial 
information that is both customarily and actually treated as private by 
its owner. Under the Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) (5 U.S.C. 552), 
CBI is exempt from public disclosure. If your comments responsive to 
this NPRM contain commercial or financial information that is 
customarily treated as private, that you actually treat as private, and 
that is relevant or responsive to this NPRM, it is important that you 
clearly designate the submitted comments as CBI. Please mark each page 
of your submission containing CBI as ``PROPIN.'' The FAA will treat 
such marked submissions as confidential under the FOIA, and they will 
not be placed in the public docket of this NPRM. Submissions containing 
CBI should be sent 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 817-222-5110; email [email protected]. Any 
commentary that the FAA receives which is not specifically designated 
as CBI will be placed in the public docket for this rulemaking.

Discussion

    The FAA issued AD 2017-23-08, Amendment 39-19102 (82 FR 55752, 
November 24, 2017) (``AD 2017-23-08'') for Agusta S.p.A. (now Leonardo 
S.p.a.) Model AB139 and AW139 helicopters. AD 2017-23-08 requires 
repetitively inspecting the M/R rotating scissors, removing certain 
bearings from service, installing a special nut and requires replacing 
the removed bearings with certain part-numbered bearings.
    AD 2017-23-08 was prompted by EASA Emergency AD (EAD) No. 2017-
0028-E, dated February 15, 2017 (EASA EAD 2017-0028-E) issued by EASA, 
which is the Technical Agent for the Member States of the European 
Union. EASA advised of a report of a dislodged bearing on an M/R 
rotating scissor equipped with a certain special nut. EASA EAD 2017-
0028-E requires repetitive inspections of certain M/R rotating scissor 
bearings, and depending on the findings, replacement of the bearing and 
affected M/R parts. The EASA AD also requires replacement of certain 
bearings as a terminating action for the repetitive inspections. 
According to EASA, this condition, could result in failure of the M/R 
rotating scissor bearing and subsequent loss of control of the 
helicopter.

Actions Since AD 2017-23-08 Was Issued

    Since the FAA issued AD 2017-23-08, investigation results by the 
supplier of the bearings determined that a quality control issue may 
have affected the production of bearing part number (P/N) 3G6230V00654. 
Accordingly, this proposed AD retains the requirements of AD 2017-23-08 
and proposes replacing bearing P/N 3G6230V00654 with P/N 3G6230V00655.

FAA's Determination

    These helicopters have been approved by EASA and are approved for 
operation in the United States. Pursuant to the FAA's bilateral 
agreement with the European Union, EASA has notified the FAA of the 
unsafe condition described in its AD. The FAA is proposing this AD 
after evaluating all known relevant information and determining that an 
unsafe condition is likely to exist or develop on other helicopters of 
the same type design.

Differences Between This Proposed AD and the EASA AD

    The EASA AD specifies some compliance times using calendar time, 
whereas this proposed AD does not. The EASA AD requires reporting 
information to Leonardo S.p.a. Product Support Engineering, whereas 
this proposed AD does not.

Related Service Information Under 1 CFR Part 51

    The FAA reviewed Leonardo Helicopters Alert Bollettino Tecnico No. 
139-392, Revision A, dated February 14, 2017. This service information 
specifies repetitively inspecting the M/R rotating scissors to monitor 
the bearings and replacing the bearing with a new part-numbered 
bearing. This service info also specifies installing a special nut in 
case of lower scissor bearing dislodging.
    This service information is reasonably available because the 
interested parties have access to it through their normal

[[Page 57167]]

course of business or by the means identified in the ADDRESSES section.

Other Related Service Information

    The FAA reviewed Leonardo Helicopters AW139 IETP Document Code AMP-
39-A-62-31-00-00A-31AC-A, Rotating control installation--Fixed 
swashplate and rotating scissors--Detailed inspection, Issue 29, dated 
July 31, 2017, which describes procedures for a detailed inspection of 
the fixed swashplate and rotating scissors.

Proposed AD Requirements

    This proposed AD would retain the repetitive inspection 
requirements of AD 2017-23-08, and continue to require replacing the 
bearing with an improved bearing, replacing the rotating scissor 
attachment flange with a certain part-numbered rotating scissor 
attachment flange, and replacing the nut with a certain part-numbered 
special nut. This proposed AD would also require removing each bearing 
P/N 3G6230V00654 from service and replacing it with bearing P/N 
3G6230V00655 within 100 hours TIS.

Costs of Compliance

    The FAA estimates that this proposed AD would affect 102 
helicopters of U.S. Registry. The FAA estimates that operators may 
incur the following costs in order to comply with this proposed AD. 
Labor costs are estimated at $85 per work-hour.
    Inspecting for bearing liner wear, seat movement, and play would 
take about 1 work-hour for a cost of $85 per helicopter and $8,670 for 
the U.S. fleet per inspection cycle.
    Replacing a bearing would take about 2 work-hours and parts would 
cost about $950 for a cost of $1,120 per bearing.
    Replacing a rotating scissor attachment flange would take about 
0.25 work-hours and parts would cost about $25,629 for a cost of 
$25,650 per flange.
    Installing two special nuts would take about 1 work-hour and parts 
would cost about $755 for a cost of $840 per helicopter and $85,680 for 
the U.S. fleet.

Authority for This Rulemaking

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

Regulatory Findings

    The FAA determined that this proposed AD would not have federalism 
implications under Executive Order 13132. This proposed AD would not 
have a substantial direct effect on the States, on the relationship 
between the national Government and the States, or on the distribution 
of power and responsibilities among the various levels of government.
    For the reasons discussed, I certify this proposed regulation:
    1. Is not a ``significant regulatory action'' under Executive Order 
12866,
    2. Will not affect intrastate aviation in Alaska, and
    3. Will not have a significant economic impact, positive or 
negative, on a substantial number of small entities under the criteria 
of the Regulatory Flexibility Act.

List of Subjects in 14 CFR Part 39

    Air transportation, Aircraft, Aviation safety, Incorporation by 
reference, Safety.

The Proposed Amendment

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

PART 39--AIRWORTHINESS DIRECTIVES

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

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


Sec.  39.13   [Amended]

0
2. The FAA amends Sec.  39.13 by:
0
a. Removing Airworthiness Directive (AD) 2017-23-08, Amendment 39-19102 
(82 FR 55752, November 24, 2017); and
0
b. Adding the following new AD:

Leonardo S.p.a. (Type Certificate Previously Held by Agusta S.p.A.): 
Docket No. FAA-2020-0797; Product Identifier 2018-SW-081-AD.

(a) Applicability

    This AD applies to Leonardo S.p.a. Model AB139 and AW139 
helicopters, certified in any category, with main rotor (M/R) 
rotating scissors with a lower half scissor spherical bearing 
(bearing) P/N 3G6230V00654 installed.

(b) Unsafe Condition

    This AD defines the unsafe condition as excessive play of the 
bearing in the M/R rotating scissors. This condition could result in 
failure of the M/R rotating scissor bearing and loss of helicopter 
control.

(c) Affected ADs

    This AD replaces AD 2017-03-08, Amendment 39-19102; (82 FR 
55752, November 24, 2017) (``AD 2017-23-08'').

(d) Comments Due Date

    The FAA must receive comments by October 30, 2020.

(e) Compliance

    You are responsible for performing each action required by this 
AD within the specified compliance time unless it has already been 
accomplished prior to that time.

(f) Required Actions

    (1) Within 5 hours time-in-service (TIS) after December 11, 2017 
(the effective date of AD 2017-23-08), and thereafter before the 
first flight of each day or at intervals not exceeding 24-clock 
hours, whichever occurs later:
    (i) Using a magnifying glass and a flashlight, visually inspect 
each bearing for wear of the bearing liner. Some examples of wear 
are shown in Figures 4 through 8 of Leonardo Helicopters Alert 
Bollettino Tecnico No. 139-392, Revision A, dated February 14, 2017 
(BT 139-392). If there is any wear of the liner, before further 
flight, replace the bearing with bearing P/N 3G6230V00655 and 
install special nut P/N 3G6230A06851. Replacing the bearing with 
bearing P/N 3G6230V00655 constitutes terminating action for the 
remaining actions of this AD for the bearing.
    (ii) Inspect each bearing for movement. Refer to Figure 9 of BT 
139-392. If the bearing moves freely out of its seat, before further 
flight, replace the rotating scissor attachment flange with flange 
P/N 3G6220A00633, replace the bearing with bearing P/N 3G6230V00655 
and install special nut P/N 3G6230A06851. Replacing the bearing with 
bearing P/N 3G6230V00655 constitutes terminating action for the 
remaining actions of this AD for the bearing.
    (iii) Inspect the M/R rotating scissors for play and wear of 
each bearing, paying particular attention to the bearing staking 
condition, by manually moving the lower half scissor along the axis 
of the spherical bearing. Refer to Figure 1 of BT 139-392. If there 
is any play or wear beyond allowable limits, before further flight, 
replace the bearing with bearing P/N 3G6230V00655 and install 
special nut P/N 3G6230A06851. Replacing the bearing with bearing P/N 
3G6230V00655 constitutes terminating action for the remaining 
actions of this AD for the bearing.
    (2) Within 100 hours TIS after the effective date of this AD, 
replace and torque each lower half scissor nut with special nut P/N 
3G6230A06851 to the M/R rotating scissor in accordance with the 
Compliance Instructions, Part II, steps 5.1 through 5.9 of

[[Page 57168]]

BT 139-392, except you are not required to discard parts.
    (3) Within 100 hours TIS after the effective date of this AD, 
remove each bearing P/N 3G6230V00654 from service and replace with 
bearing P/N 3G230V00655.
    (4) After December 11, 2017 (the effective date of AD 2017-23-
08), do not install on any helicopter any M/R rotating scissors with 
a bearing P/N 3G6230V00654 installed.

(g) 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 817-222-5110; email [email protected].
    (2) For operations conducted under a 14 CFR part 119 operating 
certificate or under 14 CFR part 91, subpart K, the FAA suggests 
that you notify your principal inspector, or lacking a principal 
inspector, the manager of the local flight standards district office 
or certificate holding district office before operating any aircraft 
complying with this AD through an AMOC.

(h) Additional Information

    The subject of this AD is addressed in European Aviation Safety 
Agency (now European Union Aviation Safety Agency) (EASA) AD No. 
2017-0028-E, dated February 15, 2017. You may view the EASA AD on 
the internet at https://www.regulations.gov in the AD Docket.

(i) Subject

    Joint Aircraft Service Component (JASC) Code: 6200, Main Rotor 
System.

    Issued on September 9, 2020.
Lance T. Gant,
Director, Compliance & Airworthiness Division, Aircraft Certification 
Service.
[FR Doc. 2020-20228 Filed 9-14-20; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE 4910-13-P

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