Airworthiness Directives; Airbus Helicopters, 63240-63244 [2020-22115]
Download as PDF
<![CDATA[
63240
Federal Register / Vol. 85, No. 195 / Wednesday, October 7, 2020 / Proposed Rules
Airbus Helicopters: Docket No. FAA–2020–
0909; Project Identifier 2019–SW–118–
AD.
(a) Comments Due Date
The FAA must receive comments by
November 23, 2020.
(c) Applicability
This AD applies to Airbus Helicopters
Model AS332C, AS332C1, AS332L, and
AS332L1 helicopters, certificated in any
category, as identified in European Union
Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) AD 2019–
0064R1, dated December 19, 2019 (‘‘EASA
AD 2019–0064R1’’).
(d) Subject
Joint Aircraft System Component (JASC)
Code 5200, Doors.
(e) Reason
This AD was prompted by a report that the
cabin lateral sliding plug door failed its
emergency jettisoning test; subsequent
investigation revealed that the jettison handle
cable interfered with the cable clamps. The
FAA is issuing this AD to address this
condition, which could lead to jamming of
the door jettisoning mechanism, preventing
the jettisoning of the affected door in an
emergency situation, and possibly
obstructing occupant evacuation.
(f) Compliance
Comply with this AD within the
compliance times specified, unless already
done.
(g) Requirements
Except as specified in paragraph (h) of this
AD: Comply with all required actions and
compliance times specified in, and in
accordance with, paragraph (3) or (4) of
EASA AD 2019–0064R1.
(h) Exceptions to EASA AD 2019–0064R1
(1) Where EASA AD 2019–0064R1 refers to
April 10, 2019 (the effective date of EASA
AD 2019–0064, dated March 27, 2019), this
AD requires using the effective date of this
AD.
(2) The ‘‘Remarks’’ section of EASA AD
2019–0064R1 does not apply to this AD.
(3) If the modification specified in
paragraph (4) of EASA AD 2019–0064R1 is
done, it must be done at the compliance time
specified in paragraph (3) of EASA AD 2019–
0064R1.
(4) Although the service information
referenced in EASA AD 2019–0064R1
specifies to discard or scrap certain parts,
this AD does not include that requirement.
(5) Where paragraph (3) of EASA AD 2019–
0064R1 specifies to do a modification ‘‘in
accordance with the instructions of section 3
of the modification ASB’’ this AD excludes
paragraph 3.B.5. of ‘‘the modification ASB.’’
(6) Where paragraph (4) of EASA AD 2019–
0064R1 refers to ‘‘Eurocopter AS 322 SB No.
52.00.28,’’ for this AD use ‘‘Eurocopter AS
332 SB No. 52.00.28.’’
16:45 Oct 06, 2020
Jkt 253001
DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION
Accomplishing the actions required by this
AD terminates all requirements of AD 2019–
09–03.
Federal Aviation Administration
(j) Alternative Methods of Compliance
(AMOCs)
(b) Affected ADs
This AD affects AD 2019–09–03,
Amendment 39–19637 (84 FR 22693, May 20,
2019) (‘‘AD 2019–09–03’’).
VerDate Sep<11>2014
(i) Terminating Action for AD 2019–09–03
The Manager, International Validation
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 International Validation Branch, send
it to the attention of the person identified in
paragraph (k)(2) of this AD. Information may
be emailed to: 9-AVS-AIR-730-AMOC@
faa.gov. For operations conducted under a 14
CFR part 119 operating certificate or under
14 CFR part 91, subpart K, notify your
principal inspector or lacking a principal
inspector, the manager of the local flight
standards district office or certificate holding
district office, before operating any aircraft
complying with this AD through an AMOC.
(k) Related Information
(1) For information about EASA AD 2019–
0064R1, contact the EASA, KonradAdenauer-Ufer 3, 50668 Cologne, Germany;
telephone +49 221 8999 000; email ADs@
easa.europa.eu; internet
www.easa.europa.eu. You may find this
EASA AD on the EASA website at https://
ad.easa.europa.eu. You may view this
material 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. This
material may be found in the AD docket on
the internet at https://www.regulations.gov
by searching for and locating Docket No.
FAA–2020–0909.
(2) For more information about this AD,
contact Kathleen Arrigotti, Aviation Safety
Engineer, Large Aircraft Section,
International Validation Branch, FAA, 2200
South 216th St., Des Moines, WA 98198;
telephone and fax 206–231–3218; email
kathleen.arrigotti@faa.gov.
Issued on October 1, 2020.
Lance T. Gant,
Director, Compliance & Airworthiness
Division, Aircraft Certification Service.
[FR Doc. 2020–22124 Filed 10–6–20; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE 4910–13–P
PO 00000
Frm 00023
Fmt 4702
Sfmt 4702
14 CFR Part 39
[Docket No. FAA–2020–0905; Product
Identifier 2019–SW–102–AD]
RIN 2120–AA64
Airworthiness Directives; Airbus
Helicopters
Federal Aviation
Administration (FAA), DOT.
ACTION: Notice of proposed rulemaking
(NPRM).
AGENCY:
The FAA proposes to
supersede Airworthiness Directive (AD)
2015–26–01, which applies to certain
Airbus Helicopters Model AS332C1,
AS332L1, AS332L2, EC225LP, AS–
365N2, AS 365 N3, EC 155B, and
EC155B1 helicopters with an energyabsorbing seat. AD 2015–26–01 requires
inspecting for the presence of labels
(placards) that prohibit stowing
anything under the seat, and if a label
(placard) is missing or not clearly
visible to each occupant, installing a
label (placard). Since the FAA issued
AD 2015–26–01, the FAA has
determined that additional helicopters
are affected by the unsafe condition, and
that new labels (placards) are required
for all affected helicopters. This
proposed AD would retain all of the
requirements of AD 2015–26–01. This
proposed AD would also add
helicopters to the applicability and
require a modification (installing new
labels (placards)). 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 November 23,
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 service information identified in
this NPRM, contact Airbus Helicopters,
2701 N Forum Drive, Grand Prairie, TX
75052; phone: 972–641–0000 or 800–
SUMMARY:
E:\FR\FM\07OCP1.SGM
07OCP1
Federal Register / Vol. 85, No. 195 / Wednesday, October 7, 2020 / Proposed Rules
232–0323; fax: 972–641–3775; or at
https://www.airbus.com/helicopters/
services/technical-support.html. You
may view this service information at the
FAA, Office of the Regional Counsel,
Southwest Region, 10101 Hillwood
Pkwy., Room 6N–321, Fort Worth, TX
76177. 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–
0905; 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.
Comments will be available in the AD
docket shortly after receipt.
FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT:
Kathleen Arrigotti, Aviation Safety
Engineer, Large Aircraft Section,
International Validation Branch, FAA,
2200 South 216th St., Des Moines, WA
98198; phone and fax: 206–231–3218;
email: kathleen.arrigotti@faa.gov.
SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION:
Comments Invited
The FAA invites you to send any
written relevant data, views, or
arguments about this proposal. Send
your comments to an address listed
under the ADDRESSES section. Include
‘‘Docket No. FAA–2020–0905; Product
Identifier 2019–SW–102–AD’’ at the
beginning of your comments. The most
helpful comments reference a specific
portion of the proposal, explain the
reason for any recommended change,
and include supporting data. The FAA
will consider all comments received by
the closing date and may amend this
proposed AD based on those 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, to https://
www.regulations.gov, including any
personal information you provide. The
FAA will also post a report
summarizing each substantive verbal
contact received about this proposed
AD.
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
VerDate Sep<11>2014
16:45 Oct 06, 2020
Jkt 253001
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 Kathleen Arrigotti,
Aviation Safety Engineer, Large Aircraft
Section, International Validation
Branch, FAA, 2200 South 216th St., Des
Moines, WA 98198; phone and fax: 206–
231–3218; email: kathleen.arrigotti@
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.
Discussion
The FAA issued AD 2015–26–01,
Amendment 39–18349 (80 FR 79466,
December 22, 2015) (‘‘AD 2015–26–
01’’), for certain Airbus Helicopters
Model AS332C1, AS332L1, AS332L2,
EC225LP, AS–365N2, AS 365 N3, EC
155B, and EC155B1 helicopters with an
energy-absorbing seat. AD 2015–26–01
requires inspecting for the presence of
labels (placards) that prohibit stowing
anything under the seat, and if a label
(placard) is missing or not clearly
visible to each occupant, installing a
label (placard). AD 2015–26–01 resulted
from the discovery that required labels
(placards) had not been systematically
installed. The FAA issued AD 2015–26–
01 to address any object stowed under
an energy-absorbing seat, which could
reduce the efficiency of the energyabsorbing function of the seat, resulting
in injury to the seat occupants during an
accident.
Actions Since AD 2015–26–01 Was
Issued
Since AD 2015–26–01 was issued, the
FAA has determined that additional
helicopters are affected by the unsafe
condition, and that new labels
(placards) are required for all affected
helicopters.
The European Union Aviation Safety
Agency (EASA), which is the Technical
Agent for the Member States of the
European Union, has issued EASA AD
2019–0088R1, dated November 8, 2019
(referred to after this as the Mandatory
Continuing Airworthiness Information,
or ‘‘the MCAI’’), to correct an unsafe
condition for certain Airbus Helicopters
Model AS332C, AS332C1, AS332L,
PO 00000
Frm 00024
Fmt 4702
Sfmt 4702
63241
AS332L1, AS332L2, EC225LP, AS–
365N2, AS 365 N3, EC 155B and
EC155B1 helicopters with an energyabsorbing seat. EASA advised that
during certification of an energyabsorbing seat with a new part number,
the labels (placards) that require
keeping the space under the seat free of
any object were not systematically
installed. EASA stated that this
condition, if not corrected, could
prompt occupants to stow objects under
an energy-absorbing seat, which would
reduce the effectiveness of the seat and
the occupants’ chance of surviving an
accident. EASA consequently issued AD
2014–0204, dated September 11, 2014;
corrected September 12, 2014 (which
corresponds to FAA AD 2015–26–01) to
require a one-time inspection for the
presence of labels (placards) and, if they
were missing or unreadable, making and
installing labels (placards) prohibiting
the placing of an object under an energy
absorbing seat. EASA later advised, in
EASA AD 2017–0226, dated November
17, 2017 (‘‘EASA AD 2017–0226’’),
which superseded EASA AD 2014–
0204, that additional new labels
(placards) were required and that
additional helicopters were affected by
the unsafe condition. In this MCAI,
which supersedes EASA AD 2017–0226,
EASA advised that additional extended
compliance times were necessary for
certain helicopters.
You may examine the MCAI in the
AD docket on the internet at https://
www.regulations.gov by searching for
and locating Docket No. FAA–2020–
0905.
Related Service Information Under 1
CFR Part 51
Airbus Helicopters has issued the
following service information. This
service information describes
procedures for installing new labels
(placards) prohibiting stowage of any
object under an energy-absorbing seat.
These documents are distinct since they
apply to different helicopter models.
• Airbus Helicopters Alert Service
Bulletin No. AS332–25.03.16, Revision
0, dated September 7, 2017.
• Airbus Helicopters Alert Service
Bulletin No. AS332–25.03.41, Revision
0, dated September 7, 2017.
• Airbus Helicopters Alert Service
Bulletin No. AS332–25.03.42, Revision
0, dated September 7, 2017.
• Airbus Helicopters Alert Service
Bulletin No. AS365–25.01.67, Revision
0, dated February 12, 2019.
• Airbus Helicopters Alert Service
Bulletin No. EC155–25A144, Revision 0,
dated February 12, 2019.
E:\FR\FM\07OCP1.SGM
07OCP1
63242
Federal Register / Vol. 85, No. 195 / Wednesday, October 7, 2020 / Proposed Rules
• Airbus Helicopters Alert Service
Bulletin No. EC225–25A179, Revision 1,
dated November 6, 2019.
• Airbus Helicopters Alert Service
Bulletin No. EC225–25A203, Revision 0,
dated September 7, 2017.
Airbus Helicopters has also issued the
following service information. This
service information describes
procedures for inspecting for labels,
placards, or markings that prohibit
stowing anything under certain seats
and installing a placard. These
documents are distinct since they apply
to different helicopter models.
• Airbus Helicopters Alert Service
Bulletin No. AS332–01.00.85, Revision
1, dated September 7, 2017.
• Airbus Helicopters Alert Service
Bulletin No. AS365–01.00.66, Revision
1, dated February 12, 2019.
• Airbus Helicopters Alert Service
Bulletin No. EC155–04A013, Revision 1,
dated February 12, 2019.
• Airbus Helicopters Alert Service
Bulletin No. EC225–04A012, Revision 2,
dated November 6, 2019.
This proposed AD would also require
the following service information,
which the Director of the Federal
Register approved for incorporation by
reference as of January 26, 2016 (80 FR
79466, December 22, 2015).
• Airbus Helicopters Alert Service
Bulletin No. AS332–01.00.85, Revision
0, dated August 26, 2014.
• Airbus Helicopters Alert Service
Bulletin No. AS365–01.00.66, Revision
0, dated August 26, 2014.
• Airbus Helicopters Alert Service
Bulletin No. EC155–04A013, Revision 0,
dated August 26, 2014.
• Airbus Helicopters Alert Service
Bulletin No. EC225–04A012, Revision 0,
dated August 26, 2014.
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.
Other Related Service Information
Airbus Helicopters issued Airbus
Helicopters Alert Service Bulletin No.
EC225–04A012, Revision 1, dated
September 7, 2017, which describes
procedures for inspecting for labels,
placards, or markings that prohibit
stowing anything under certain seats
and installing a placard.
Airbus Helicopters has also issued
Airbus Helicopters Alert Service
Bulletin No. EC225–25A179, Revision 0,
dated September 7, 2017, which
describes procedures for installing new
labels (placards) prohibiting stowage of
any object under an energy-absorbing
seat.
FAA’s Determination
This product has been approved by
the aviation authority of another
country, and is approved for operation
in the United States. Pursuant to the
FAA’s bilateral agreement with the State
of Design Authority, the FAA has been
notified of the unsafe condition
described in the MCAI and service
information referenced above. The FAA
is proposing this AD after evaluating all
the relevant information and
determining the unsafe condition
described previously is likely to exist or
develop on other products of the same
type design.
Proposed Requirements of this NPRM
This proposed AD would retain all of
the requirements of AD 2015–26–01.
This proposed AD would require
accomplishing the actions specified in
the service information described
previously.
Clarification of the Retained
Compliance Times
Paragraph (g) of AD 2015–26–01
specified the compliance time as:
‘‘Within 110 hours time in service.’’ The
FAA has included clarification of the
retained compliance time for paragraph
(g) of this NPRM, that specifies: ‘‘Within
110 hours time in service after January
26, 2016 (the effective date of AD 2015–
26–01) . . .’’
Clarification of the Generic Part
Number for Seat Type
Figure 1 to paragraph (a) of AD 2015–
26–01 specifies an incorrect generic part
number for Socea Sogerma seat type
ST107. The FAA has corrected that
generic part number in figure 1 to
paragraphs (c) and (j) of this proposed
AD. The incorrect generic part number
was 2010107–xx–xx; the correct generic
part number is 2510107–xx–xx.
Costs of Compliance
The FAA estimates that this proposed
AD affects 90 helicopters of U.S.
registry. The FAA estimates the
following costs to comply with this
proposed AD:
ESTIMATED COSTS FOR REQUIRED ACTIONS
Cost on
U.S.
operators
Cost per
product
Action
Labor cost
Inspection (52 Helicopters) (Retained actions
from AD 2015–26–01).
Install label (placard) (52 Helicopters) (Retained actions from AD 2015–26–01).
Inspection (38 Helicopters) (New proposed
actions).
Install label (placard) (38 Helicopters) (New
proposed actions).
Install new label (placard) (New proposed actions).
1 work-hour × $85 per hour = $85 .................
$0
$85
$4,420
2 work-hours × $85 per hour = $170 .............
$Minimal
170
8,840
1 work-hour × $85 per hour = $85 .................
$0
85
3,230
2 work-hours × $85 per hour = $170 .............
$Minimal
170
6,460
2 work-hours × $85 per hour = $170 .............
$Minimal
170
15,300
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.
VerDate Sep<11>2014
16:45 Oct 06, 2020
Jkt 253001
Parts cost
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
PO 00000
Frm 00025
Fmt 4702
Sfmt 4702
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
E:\FR\FM\07OCP1.SGM
07OCP1
Federal Register / Vol. 85, No. 195 / Wednesday, October 7, 2020 / Proposed Rules
implications under Executive Order
13132. This proposed AD would not
have a substantial direct effect on the
States, on the relationship between the
national Government and the States, or
on the distribution of power and
responsibilities among the various
levels of government.
For the reasons discussed above, I
certify this proposed regulation:
(1) Is not a ‘‘significant regulatory
action’’ under Executive Order 12866,
(2) Will not affect intrastate aviation
in Alaska, and
(3) Will not have a significant
economic impact, positive or negative,
on a substantial number of small entities
under the criteria of the Regulatory
Flexibility Act.
List of Subjects in 14 CFR Part 39
Air transportation, Aircraft, Aviation
safety, Incorporation by reference,
Safety.
63243
(a) Comments Due Date
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
The FAA must receive comments by
November 23, 2020.
(b) Affected ADs
This AD replaces AD 2015–26–01,
Amendment 39–18349 (80 FR 79466,
December 22, 2015) (‘‘AD 2015–26–01’’).
(c) Applicability
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
removing Airworthiness Directive (AD)
2015–26–01, Amendment 39–18349 (80
FR 79466, December 22, 2015), and
adding the following new AD:
■
This AD applies to Airbus Helicopters
Model AS332C, AS332C1, AS332L,
AS332L1, AS332L2, EC225LP, AS–365N2,
AS 365 N3, EC 155B and EC155B1
helicopters, certificated in any category,
equipped with at least one energy-absorbing
seat listed in figure 1 to paragraphs (c) and
(j) of this AD, except any helicopter
embodying the applicable Airbus Helicopters
modifications on all applicable seat positions
listed in figure 2 to paragraph (c) of this AD.
Airbus Helicopters: Docket No. FAA–2020–
0905; Product Identifier 2019–SW–102–
AD.
FIGURE 1 TO PARAGRAPHS (c) AND (j)—AFFECTED SEATS
Seat manufacturer
Seat type
Fischer + Entwicklungen .........................................................................
H110 ..............................................
H140 ..............................................
H160 ..............................................
185/410 ..........................................
236/406 ..........................................
Sicma 192 ......................................
Sicma 159 ......................................
SICMA Aero Seat or Zodiac Seats France .............................................
Socea Sogerma .......................................................................................
Note 1 to Figure 1 to paragraphs (c) and
(j): ‘‘xx’’ can be any two alphanumeric
Generic P/N
ST102 ............................................
ST107 ............................................
ST120 ............................................
9606–( )–( )–( ).
0520–( )–( )–( ).
0718–( )–( )–( )–( ).
9507–( )–( )–( ).
9608–( )–( )–( ).
192xx–xx–xx.
1591718–xx.
159110.
2510102–xx–xx.
2510107–xx–xx.
2520120–xx.
characters and ‘‘()’’ can be any number of
alphanumeric characters.
FIGURE 2 TO PARAGRAPH (c)—MODIFICATIONS (INSTALLATION OF LABEL (PLACARD) PROHIBITING STORAGE UNDER THE
SEAT)
Helicopter type
Modification
AS332C, AS332C1, AS332L, AS332L1, AS332L2 ............
0728251 or 332P084159 ...................................................
0728352 or 332P084160 ...................................................
0728403 or 332P084161 ...................................................
0728251, or 332P084159, or 332P085421.00, or
332P085421.01, or 332P085421.02 or 332P085421.03.
0728352 or 332P084160 ...................................................
365V874113.00 ..................................................................
EC225LP .............................................................................
AS-365N2, AS 365 N3, EC 155B, EC155B1 .....................
the seat, resulting in injury to the seat
occupants during an accident.
(d) Subject
Air Transport Association (ATA) of
America Code 11, Placards and markings.
(f) Compliance
(e) Reason
This AD was prompted by the discovery
that required labels (placards) prohibiting
stowage of any object under an energyabsorbing seat had not been systematically
installed. The FAA is issuing this AD to
address any object stowed under an energyabsorbing seat which could reduce the
efficiency of the energy-absorbing function of
VerDate Sep<11>2014
16:45 Oct 06, 2020
Jkt 253001
Comply with this AD within the
compliance times specified, unless already
done.
(g) Retained Inspection and Corrective
Actions With Revised Service Information
This paragraph restates the requirements of
paragraph (e) of AD 2015–26–01, with
revised service information. Within 110
PO 00000
Frm 00026
Fmt 4702
Sfmt 4702
Seat (position)
Cabin.
Cockpit.
3rd Crew Member.
Cabin.
Cockpit.
All seat configurations.
hours time in service after January 26, 2016
(the effective date of AD 2015–26–01), do the
actions specified in paragraphs (g)(1) or (2) of
this AD, as applicable for your model
helicopter.
(1) For Model AS332C1, AS332L1,
AS332L2, and EC225LP helicopters:
(i) Inspect the cabin and cockpit for labels,
placards, or markings that prohibit stowing
anything under the seats in the locations
shown in the figure in the Appendix of
Airbus Helicopters Alert Service Bulletin No.
AS332–01.00.85 or No. EC225–04A012, both
E:\FR\FM\07OCP1.SGM
07OCP1
63244
Federal Register / Vol. 85, No. 195 / Wednesday, October 7, 2020 / Proposed Rules
Revision 0 and dated August 26, 2014; or
Airbus Helicopters Alert Service Bulletin No.
AS332–01.00.85, Revision 1, dated
September 7, 2017, or Airbus Helicopters
Alert Service Bulletin No. EC225–04A012,
Revision 2, dated November 6, 2019; as
applicable for your model helicopter.
(ii) If a label, placard, or marking is not
located in every location depicted in the
figure in the Appendix or is not visible and
legible to every occupant, before further
flight, install a placard in accordance with
the Accomplishment Instructions, paragraph
3.B., of Airbus Helicopters Alert Service
Bulletin No. AS332 01.00.85 or No. EC225
04A012, both Revision 0 and dated August
26, 2014; or Airbus Helicopters Alert Service
Bulletin No. AS332 01.00.85, Revision 1,
dated September 7, 2017, or Airbus
Helicopters Alert Service Bulletin No.
EC225–04A012, Revision 2, dated November
6, 2019; as applicable for your model
helicopter.
(2) For Model AS–365N2, AS 365 N3, EC
155B, and EC155B1 helicopters:
(i) Inspect each seat leg in the cabin and
cockpit for labels, placards, or markings that
prohibit stowing anything under the seats.
(ii) If a label, placard, or marking does not
exist on one leg of each seat or is not visible
and legible, before further flight, install a
placard in accordance with the
Accomplishment Instructions, paragraph
3.B., and the Appendix of Airbus Helicopters
Alert Service Bulletin No. AS365–01.00.66 or
No. EC155–04A013, both Revision 0 and
dated August 26, 2014; or Airbus Helicopters
Alert Service Bulletin No. AS365–01.00.66 or
No. EC155–04A013, both Revision 1 and
dated February 12, 2019; as applicable for
your model helicopter.
(h) New Inspection and Corrective Actions
for Certain Helicopters
(1) For Model AS332C and AS332L
helicopters: Within 110 hours time in service
or 30 days, whichever occurs first, after the
effective date of this AD, inspect the cabin
and cockpit for labels, placards, or markings
that prohibit stowing anything under the
seats in the locations shown in the figure in
the Appendix of Airbus Helicopters Alert
Service Bulletin No. AS332–01.00.85,
Revision 1, dated September 7, 2017.
(2) If a label, placard, or marking is not
located in every location depicted in the
figure in the Appendix or is not visible and
legible to every occupant, before further
flight, install a placard in accordance with
the Accomplishment Instructions, paragraph
3.B., of Airbus Helicopters Alert Service
Bulletin No. AS332–01.00.85, Revision 1,
dated September 7, 2017.
(i) New Requirements of This AD:
Modification (Install New Placards)
(1) At the applicable times specified in
paragraph (i)(2) of this AD, install new
VerDate Sep<11>2014
16:45 Oct 06, 2020
Jkt 253001
placards prohibiting stowage of any object
under an energy-absorbing seat in accordance
with the Accomplishment Instructions,
paragraph 3.B., of the applicable service
information specified in paragraphs (i)(1)(i)
through (vii) of this AD, except you are not
required to discard the old labels (placards).
Doing the installation required by this
paragraph terminates the requirements of
paragraphs (g) and (h) of this AD.
(i) Airbus Helicopters Alert Service
Bulletin No. AS332–25.03.16, Revision 0,
dated September 7, 2017.
(ii) Airbus Helicopters Alert Service
Bulletin No. AS332–25.03.41, Revision 0,
dated September 7, 2017.
(iii) Airbus Helicopters Alert Service
Bulletin No. AS332–25.03.42, Revision 0,
dated September 7, 2017.
(iv) Airbus Helicopters Alert Service
Bulletin No. AS365–25.01.67, Revision 0,
dated February 12, 2019.
(v) Airbus Helicopters Alert Service
Bulletin No. EC155–25A144, Revision 0,
dated February 12, 2019.
(vi) Airbus Helicopters Alert Service
Bulletin No. EC225–25A179, Revision 1,
dated November 6, 2019.
(vii) Airbus Helicopters Alert Service
Bulletin No. EC225–25A203, Revision 0,
dated September 7, 2017; as applicable for
your model helicopter.
(2) At this applicable times specified in
paragraph (i)(2)(i) or (ii) of this AD, do the
installation required by paragraph (i)(1) of
this AD.
(i) For Model AS332C, AS332C1, AS332L,
AS332L1, AS332L2, AS–365N2, AS 365 N3,
EC 155B, EC155B1, and EC225LP helicopters,
all manufacturer serial numbers, except
Model EC225LP helicopters, manufacturer
serial numbers 2663, 2670, 2854, 2883, 2885,
2901 and 2921: Within 110 hours time in
service or 6 months, whichever occurs first
after the effective date of this AD.
(ii) For Model EC225LP helicopters,
manufacturer serial numbers 2663, 2670,
2854, 2883, 2885, 2901 and 2921: Within 50
hours time in service or 2 months, whichever
occurs first after the effective date of this AD.
(j) No Actions Required for Certain
Helicopters
For Model AS332C, AS332C1, AS332L,
AS332L1, AS332L2, and EC225LP
helicopters delivered after September 7,
2017: No actions are required, provided that
no energy-absorbing seat, as identified in
figure 1 to paragraphs (c) and (j) of this AD,
has been installed on that helicopter since
delivery.
(k) Credit for Previous Actions
(1) This paragraph provides credit for the
actions specified in paragraph (g) of this AD,
if those actions were performed before the
effective date of this AD using Airbus
Helicopters Alert Service Bulletin No.
PO 00000
Frm 00027
Fmt 4702
Sfmt 9990
EC225–04A012, Revision 1, dated September
7, 2017.
(2) This paragraph provides credit for the
actions specified in paragraph (i)(1) and (2)
of this AD, if those actions were performed
before the effective date of this AD using
Airbus Helicopters Alert Service Bulletin No.
EC225–25A179, Revision 0, dated September
7, 2017.
(l) Alternative Methods of Compliance
(AMOCs)
(1) The Manager, International Validation
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 International Validation Branch, send
it to the attention of the person identified in
paragraph (m)(1) of this AD. Information may
be emailed to: 9-AVS-AIR-730-AMOC@
faa.gov. 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.
(2) For operations conducted under a 14
CFR part 119 operating certificate or under
14 CFR part 91, subpart K, notify your
principal inspector or lacking a principal
inspector, the manager of the local flight
standards district office or certificate holding
district office, before operating any aircraft
complying with this AD through an AMOC.
(m) Related Information
(1) For more information about this AD,
contact Kathleen Arrigotti, Aviation Safety
Engineer, Large Aircraft Section,
International Validation Branch, FAA, 2200
South 216th St., Des Moines, WA 98198;
phone and fax: 206–231–3218; email:
kathleen.arrigotti@faa.gov.
(2) For service information identified in
this AD, contact Airbus Helicopters, 2701 N
Forum Drive, Grand Prairie, TX 75052;
phone: 972–641–0000 or 800–232–0323; fax:
972–641–3775; or at https://www.airbus.com/
helicopters/services/technical-support.html.
You may view this service information at the
FAA, Office of the Regional Counsel,
Southwest Region, 10101 Hillwood Pkwy.,
Room 6N–321, Fort Worth, TX 76177. For
information on the availability of this
material at the FAA, call 817–222–5110.
Issued on October 1, 2020.
Lance T. Gant,
Director, Compliance & Airworthiness
Division, Aircraft Certification Service.
[FR Doc. 2020–22115 Filed 10–6–20; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE 4910–13–P
E:\FR\FM\07OCP1.SGM
07OCP1
]]>Agencies
[Federal Register Volume 85, Number 195 (Wednesday, October 7, 2020)]
[Proposed Rules]
[Pages 63240-63244]
From the Federal Register Online via the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]
[FR Doc No: 2020-22115]
-----------------------------------------------------------------------
DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION
Federal Aviation Administration
14 CFR Part 39
[Docket No. FAA-2020-0905; Product Identifier 2019-SW-102-AD]
RIN 2120-AA64
Airworthiness Directives; Airbus Helicopters
AGENCY: Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), DOT.
ACTION: Notice of proposed rulemaking (NPRM).
-----------------------------------------------------------------------
SUMMARY: The FAA proposes to supersede Airworthiness Directive (AD)
2015-26-01, which applies to certain Airbus Helicopters Model AS332C1,
AS332L1, AS332L2, EC225LP, AS-365N2, AS 365 N3, EC 155B, and EC155B1
helicopters with an energy-absorbing seat. AD 2015-26-01 requires
inspecting for the presence of labels (placards) that prohibit stowing
anything under the seat, and if a label (placard) is missing or not
clearly visible to each occupant, installing a label (placard). Since
the FAA issued AD 2015-26-01, the FAA has determined that additional
helicopters are affected by the unsafe condition, and that new labels
(placards) are required for all affected helicopters. This proposed AD
would retain all of the requirements of AD 2015-26-01. This proposed AD
would also add helicopters to the applicability and require a
modification (installing new labels (placards)). 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 November
23, 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 service information identified in this NPRM, contact Airbus
Helicopters, 2701 N Forum Drive, Grand Prairie, TX 75052; phone: 972-
641-0000 or 800-
[[Page 63241]]
232-0323; fax: 972-641-3775; or at https://www.airbus.com/helicopters/services/technical-support.html. You may view this service information
at the FAA, Office of the Regional Counsel, Southwest Region, 10101
Hillwood Pkwy., Room 6N-321, Fort Worth, TX 76177. 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-
0905; 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. Comments will be
available in the AD docket shortly after receipt.
FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Kathleen Arrigotti, Aviation Safety
Engineer, Large Aircraft Section, International Validation Branch, FAA,
2200 South 216th St., Des Moines, WA 98198; phone and fax: 206-231-
3218; email: [email protected].
SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION:
Comments Invited
The FAA invites you to send any written relevant data, views, or
arguments about this proposal. Send your comments to an address listed
under the ADDRESSES section. Include ``Docket No. FAA-2020-0905;
Product Identifier 2019-SW-102-AD'' at the beginning of your comments.
The most helpful comments reference a specific portion of the proposal,
explain the reason for any recommended change, and include supporting
data. The FAA will consider all comments received by the closing date
and may amend this proposed AD based on those 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, to
https://www.regulations.gov, including any personal information you
provide. The FAA will also post a report summarizing each substantive
verbal contact received about this proposed AD.
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
Kathleen Arrigotti, Aviation Safety Engineer, Large Aircraft Section,
International Validation Branch, FAA, 2200 South 216th St., Des Moines,
WA 98198; phone and fax: 206-231-3218; 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 2015-26-01, Amendment 39-18349 (80 FR 79466,
December 22, 2015) (``AD 2015-26-01''), for certain Airbus Helicopters
Model AS332C1, AS332L1, AS332L2, EC225LP, AS-365N2, AS 365 N3, EC 155B,
and EC155B1 helicopters with an energy-absorbing seat. AD 2015-26-01
requires inspecting for the presence of labels (placards) that prohibit
stowing anything under the seat, and if a label (placard) is missing or
not clearly visible to each occupant, installing a label (placard). AD
2015-26-01 resulted from the discovery that required labels (placards)
had not been systematically installed. The FAA issued AD 2015-26-01 to
address any object stowed under an energy-absorbing seat, which could
reduce the efficiency of the energy-absorbing function of the seat,
resulting in injury to the seat occupants during an accident.
Actions Since AD 2015-26-01 Was Issued
Since AD 2015-26-01 was issued, the FAA has determined that
additional helicopters are affected by the unsafe condition, and that
new labels (placards) are required for all affected helicopters.
The European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA), which is the
Technical Agent for the Member States of the European Union, has issued
EASA AD 2019-0088R1, dated November 8, 2019 (referred to after this as
the Mandatory Continuing Airworthiness Information, or ``the MCAI''),
to correct an unsafe condition for certain Airbus Helicopters Model
AS332C, AS332C1, AS332L, AS332L1, AS332L2, EC225LP, AS-365N2, AS 365
N3, EC 155B and EC155B1 helicopters with an energy-absorbing seat. EASA
advised that during certification of an energy-absorbing seat with a
new part number, the labels (placards) that require keeping the space
under the seat free of any object were not systematically installed.
EASA stated that this condition, if not corrected, could prompt
occupants to stow objects under an energy-absorbing seat, which would
reduce the effectiveness of the seat and the occupants' chance of
surviving an accident. EASA consequently issued AD 2014-0204, dated
September 11, 2014; corrected September 12, 2014 (which corresponds to
FAA AD 2015-26-01) to require a one-time inspection for the presence of
labels (placards) and, if they were missing or unreadable, making and
installing labels (placards) prohibiting the placing of an object under
an energy absorbing seat. EASA later advised, in EASA AD 2017-0226,
dated November 17, 2017 (``EASA AD 2017-0226''), which superseded EASA
AD 2014-0204, that additional new labels (placards) were required and
that additional helicopters were affected by the unsafe condition. In
this MCAI, which supersedes EASA AD 2017-0226, EASA advised that
additional extended compliance times were necessary for certain
helicopters.
You may examine the MCAI in the AD docket on the internet at
https://www.regulations.gov by searching for and locating Docket No.
FAA-2020-0905.
Related Service Information Under 1 CFR Part 51
Airbus Helicopters has issued the following service information.
This service information describes procedures for installing new labels
(placards) prohibiting stowage of any object under an energy-absorbing
seat. These documents are distinct since they apply to different
helicopter models.
Airbus Helicopters Alert Service Bulletin No. AS332-
25.03.16, Revision 0, dated September 7, 2017.
Airbus Helicopters Alert Service Bulletin No. AS332-
25.03.41, Revision 0, dated September 7, 2017.
Airbus Helicopters Alert Service Bulletin No. AS332-
25.03.42, Revision 0, dated September 7, 2017.
Airbus Helicopters Alert Service Bulletin No. AS365-
25.01.67, Revision 0, dated February 12, 2019.
Airbus Helicopters Alert Service Bulletin No. EC155-
25A144, Revision 0, dated February 12, 2019.
[[Page 63242]]
Airbus Helicopters Alert Service Bulletin No. EC225-
25A179, Revision 1, dated November 6, 2019.
Airbus Helicopters Alert Service Bulletin No. EC225-
25A203, Revision 0, dated September 7, 2017.
Airbus Helicopters has also issued the following service
information. This service information describes procedures for
inspecting for labels, placards, or markings that prohibit stowing
anything under certain seats and installing a placard. These documents
are distinct since they apply to different helicopter models.
Airbus Helicopters Alert Service Bulletin No. AS332-
01.00.85, Revision 1, dated September 7, 2017.
Airbus Helicopters Alert Service Bulletin No. AS365-
01.00.66, Revision 1, dated February 12, 2019.
Airbus Helicopters Alert Service Bulletin No. EC155-
04A013, Revision 1, dated February 12, 2019.
Airbus Helicopters Alert Service Bulletin No. EC225-
04A012, Revision 2, dated November 6, 2019.
This proposed AD would also require the following service
information, which the Director of the Federal Register approved for
incorporation by reference as of January 26, 2016 (80 FR 79466,
December 22, 2015).
Airbus Helicopters Alert Service Bulletin No. AS332-
01.00.85, Revision 0, dated August 26, 2014.
Airbus Helicopters Alert Service Bulletin No. AS365-
01.00.66, Revision 0, dated August 26, 2014.
Airbus Helicopters Alert Service Bulletin No. EC155-
04A013, Revision 0, dated August 26, 2014.
Airbus Helicopters Alert Service Bulletin No. EC225-
04A012, Revision 0, dated August 26, 2014.
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.
Other Related Service Information
Airbus Helicopters issued Airbus Helicopters Alert Service Bulletin
No. EC225-04A012, Revision 1, dated September 7, 2017, which describes
procedures for inspecting for labels, placards, or markings that
prohibit stowing anything under certain seats and installing a placard.
Airbus Helicopters has also issued Airbus Helicopters Alert Service
Bulletin No. EC225-25A179, Revision 0, dated September 7, 2017, which
describes procedures for installing new labels (placards) prohibiting
stowage of any object under an energy-absorbing seat.
FAA's Determination
This product has been approved by the aviation authority of another
country, and is approved for operation in the United States. Pursuant
to the FAA's bilateral agreement with the State of Design Authority,
the FAA has been notified of the unsafe condition described in the MCAI
and service information referenced above. The FAA is proposing this AD
after evaluating all the relevant information and determining the
unsafe condition described previously is likely to exist or develop on
other products of the same type design.
Proposed Requirements of this NPRM
This proposed AD would retain all of the requirements of AD 2015-
26-01. This proposed AD would require accomplishing the actions
specified in the service information described previously.
Clarification of the Retained Compliance Times
Paragraph (g) of AD 2015-26-01 specified the compliance time as:
``Within 110 hours time in service.'' The FAA has included
clarification of the retained compliance time for paragraph (g) of this
NPRM, that specifies: ``Within 110 hours time in service after January
26, 2016 (the effective date of AD 2015-26-01) . . .''
Clarification of the Generic Part Number for Seat Type
Figure 1 to paragraph (a) of AD 2015-26-01 specifies an incorrect
generic part number for Socea Sogerma seat type ST107. The FAA has
corrected that generic part number in figure 1 to paragraphs (c) and
(j) of this proposed AD. The incorrect generic part number was 2010107-
xx-xx; the correct generic part number is 2510107-xx-xx.
Costs of Compliance
The FAA estimates that this proposed AD affects 90 helicopters of
U.S. registry. The FAA estimates the following costs to comply with
this proposed AD:
Estimated Costs for Required Actions
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Cost per Cost on U.S.
Action Labor cost Parts cost product operators
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Inspection (52 Helicopters) (Retained 1 work-hour x $85 per $0 $85 $4,420
actions from AD 2015-26-01). hour = $85.
Install label (placard) (52 2 work-hours x $85 per $Minimal 170 8,840
Helicopters) (Retained actions from hour = $170.
AD 2015-26-01).
Inspection (38 Helicopters) (New 1 work-hour x $85 per $0 85 3,230
proposed actions). hour = $85.
Install label (placard) (38 2 work-hours x $85 per $Minimal 170 6,460
Helicopters) (New proposed actions). hour = $170.
Install new label (placard) (New 2 work-hours x $85 per $Minimal 170 15,300
proposed actions). hour = $170.
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
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
[[Page 63243]]
implications under Executive Order 13132. This proposed AD would not
have a substantial direct effect on the States, on the relationship
between the national Government and the States, or on the distribution
of power and responsibilities among the various levels of government.
For the reasons discussed above, I certify this proposed
regulation:
(1) Is not a ``significant regulatory action'' under Executive
Order 12866,
(2) Will not affect intrastate aviation in Alaska, and
(3) Will not have a significant economic impact, positive or
negative, on a substantial number of small entities under the criteria
of the Regulatory Flexibility Act.
List of Subjects in 14 CFR Part 39
Air transportation, Aircraft, Aviation safety, Incorporation by
reference, Safety.
The Proposed Amendment
Accordingly, under the authority delegated to me by the
Administrator, the FAA proposes to amend 14 CFR part 39 as follows:
PART 39--AIRWORTHINESS DIRECTIVES
0
1. The authority citation for part 39 continues to read as follows:
Authority: 49 U.S.C. 106(g), 40113, 44701.
Sec. 39.13 [Amended]
0
2. The FAA amends Sec. 39.13 by removing Airworthiness Directive (AD)
2015-26-01, Amendment 39-18349 (80 FR 79466, December 22, 2015), and
adding the following new AD:
Airbus Helicopters: Docket No. FAA-2020-0905; Product Identifier
2019-SW-102-AD.
(a) Comments Due Date
The FAA must receive comments by November 23, 2020.
(b) Affected ADs
This AD replaces AD 2015-26-01, Amendment 39-18349 (80 FR 79466,
December 22, 2015) (``AD 2015-26-01'').
(c) Applicability
This AD applies to Airbus Helicopters Model AS332C, AS332C1,
AS332L, AS332L1, AS332L2, EC225LP, AS-365N2, AS 365 N3, EC 155B and
EC155B1 helicopters, certificated in any category, equipped with at
least one energy-absorbing seat listed in figure 1 to paragraphs (c)
and (j) of this AD, except any helicopter embodying the applicable
Airbus Helicopters modifications on all applicable seat positions
listed in figure 2 to paragraph (c) of this AD.
Figure 1 to Paragraphs (c) and (j)--Affected Seats
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Seat manufacturer Seat type Generic P/N
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Fischer + Entwicklungen......... H110.............. 9606-( )-( )-( ).
H140.............. 0520-( )-( )-( ).
H160.............. 0718-( )-( )-( )-(
).
185/410........... 9507-( )-( )-( ).
236/406........... 9608-( )-( )-( ).
SICMA Aero Seat or Zodiac Seats Sicma 192......... 192xx-xx-xx.
France.
Sicma 159......... 1591718-xx.
159110.
Socea Sogerma................... ST102............. 2510102-xx-xx.
ST107............. 2510107-xx-xx.
ST120............. 2520120-xx.
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Note 1 to Figure 1 to paragraphs (c) and (j): ``xx'' can be any
two alphanumeric characters and ``()'' can be any number of
alphanumeric characters.
Figure 2 to Paragraph (c)--Modifications (Installation of Label (Placard) Prohibiting Storage Under the Seat)
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Helicopter type Modification Seat (position)
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
AS332C, AS332C1, AS332L, AS332L1, 0728251 or 332P084159...... Cabin.
AS332L2.
0728352 or 332P084160...... Cockpit.
0728403 or 332P084161...... 3rd Crew Member.
EC225LP................................. 0728251, or 332P084159, or Cabin.
332P085421.00, or
332P085421.01, or
332P085421.02 or
332P085421.03.
0728352 or 332P084160...... Cockpit.
AS[dash]365N2, AS 365 N3, EC 155B, 365V874113.00.............. All seat configurations.
EC155B1.
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
(d) Subject
Air Transport Association (ATA) of America Code 11, Placards and
markings.
(e) Reason
This AD was prompted by the discovery that required labels
(placards) prohibiting stowage of any object under an energy-
absorbing seat had not been systematically installed. The FAA is
issuing this AD to address any object stowed under an energy-
absorbing seat which could reduce the efficiency of the energy-
absorbing function of the seat, resulting in injury to the seat
occupants during an accident.
(f) Compliance
Comply with this AD within the compliance times specified,
unless already done.
(g) Retained Inspection and Corrective Actions With Revised Service
Information
This paragraph restates the requirements of paragraph (e) of AD
2015-26-01, with revised service information. Within 110 hours time
in service after January 26, 2016 (the effective date of AD 2015-26-
01), do the actions specified in paragraphs (g)(1) or (2) of this
AD, as applicable for your model helicopter.
(1) For Model AS332C1, AS332L1, AS332L2, and EC225LP
helicopters:
(i) Inspect the cabin and cockpit for labels, placards, or
markings that prohibit stowing anything under the seats in the
locations shown in the figure in the Appendix of Airbus Helicopters
Alert Service Bulletin No. AS332-01.00.85 or No. EC225-04A012, both
[[Page 63244]]
Revision 0 and dated August 26, 2014; or Airbus Helicopters Alert
Service Bulletin No. AS332-01.00.85, Revision 1, dated September 7,
2017, or Airbus Helicopters Alert Service Bulletin No. EC225-04A012,
Revision 2, dated November 6, 2019; as applicable for your model
helicopter.
(ii) If a label, placard, or marking is not located in every
location depicted in the figure in the Appendix or is not visible
and legible to every occupant, before further flight, install a
placard in accordance with the Accomplishment Instructions,
paragraph 3.B., of Airbus Helicopters Alert Service Bulletin No.
AS332 01.00.85 or No. EC225 04A012, both Revision 0 and dated August
26, 2014; or Airbus Helicopters Alert Service Bulletin No. AS332
01.00.85, Revision 1, dated September 7, 2017, or Airbus Helicopters
Alert Service Bulletin No. EC225-04A012, Revision 2, dated November
6, 2019; as applicable for your model helicopter.
(2) For Model AS-365N2, AS 365 N3, EC 155B, and EC155B1
helicopters:
(i) Inspect each seat leg in the cabin and cockpit for labels,
placards, or markings that prohibit stowing anything under the
seats.
(ii) If a label, placard, or marking does not exist on one leg
of each seat or is not visible and legible, before further flight,
install a placard in accordance with the Accomplishment
Instructions, paragraph 3.B., and the Appendix of Airbus Helicopters
Alert Service Bulletin No. AS365-01.00.66 or No. EC155-04A013, both
Revision 0 and dated August 26, 2014; or Airbus Helicopters Alert
Service Bulletin No. AS365-01.00.66 or No. EC155-04A013, both
Revision 1 and dated February 12, 2019; as applicable for your model
helicopter.
(h) New Inspection and Corrective Actions for Certain Helicopters
(1) For Model AS332C and AS332L helicopters: Within 110 hours
time in service or 30 days, whichever occurs first, after the
effective date of this AD, inspect the cabin and cockpit for labels,
placards, or markings that prohibit stowing anything under the seats
in the locations shown in the figure in the Appendix of Airbus
Helicopters Alert Service Bulletin No. AS332-01.00.85, Revision 1,
dated September 7, 2017.
(2) If a label, placard, or marking is not located in every
location depicted in the figure in the Appendix or is not visible
and legible to every occupant, before further flight, install a
placard in accordance with the Accomplishment Instructions,
paragraph 3.B., of Airbus Helicopters Alert Service Bulletin No.
AS332-01.00.85, Revision 1, dated September 7, 2017.
(i) New Requirements of This AD: Modification (Install New Placards)
(1) At the applicable times specified in paragraph (i)(2) of
this AD, install new placards prohibiting stowage of any object
under an energy-absorbing seat in accordance with the Accomplishment
Instructions, paragraph 3.B., of the applicable service information
specified in paragraphs (i)(1)(i) through (vii) of this AD, except
you are not required to discard the old labels (placards). Doing the
installation required by this paragraph terminates the requirements
of paragraphs (g) and (h) of this AD.
(i) Airbus Helicopters Alert Service Bulletin No. AS332-
25.03.16, Revision 0, dated September 7, 2017.
(ii) Airbus Helicopters Alert Service Bulletin No. AS332-
25.03.41, Revision 0, dated September 7, 2017.
(iii) Airbus Helicopters Alert Service Bulletin No. AS332-
25.03.42, Revision 0, dated September 7, 2017.
(iv) Airbus Helicopters Alert Service Bulletin No. AS365-
25.01.67, Revision 0, dated February 12, 2019.
(v) Airbus Helicopters Alert Service Bulletin No. EC155-25A144,
Revision 0, dated February 12, 2019.
(vi) Airbus Helicopters Alert Service Bulletin No. EC225-25A179,
Revision 1, dated November 6, 2019.
(vii) Airbus Helicopters Alert Service Bulletin No. EC225-
25A203, Revision 0, dated September 7, 2017; as applicable for your
model helicopter.
(2) At this applicable times specified in paragraph (i)(2)(i) or
(ii) of this AD, do the installation required by paragraph (i)(1) of
this AD.
(i) For Model AS332C, AS332C1, AS332L, AS332L1, AS332L2, AS-
365N2, AS 365 N3, EC 155B, EC155B1, and EC225LP helicopters, all
manufacturer serial numbers, except Model EC225LP helicopters,
manufacturer serial numbers 2663, 2670, 2854, 2883, 2885, 2901 and
2921: Within 110 hours time in service or 6 months, whichever occurs
first after the effective date of this AD.
(ii) For Model EC225LP helicopters, manufacturer serial numbers
2663, 2670, 2854, 2883, 2885, 2901 and 2921: Within 50 hours time in
service or 2 months, whichever occurs first after the effective date
of this AD.
(j) No Actions Required for Certain Helicopters
For Model AS332C, AS332C1, AS332L, AS332L1, AS332L2, and EC225LP
helicopters delivered after September 7, 2017: No actions are
required, provided that no energy-absorbing seat, as identified in
figure 1 to paragraphs (c) and (j) of this AD, has been installed on
that helicopter since delivery.
(k) Credit for Previous Actions
(1) This paragraph provides credit for the actions specified in
paragraph (g) of this AD, if those actions were performed before the
effective date of this AD using Airbus Helicopters Alert Service
Bulletin No. EC225-04A012, Revision 1, dated September 7, 2017.
(2) This paragraph provides credit for the actions specified in
paragraph (i)(1) and (2) of this AD, if those actions were performed
before the effective date of this AD using Airbus Helicopters Alert
Service Bulletin No. EC225-25A179, Revision 0, dated September 7,
2017.
(l) Alternative Methods of Compliance (AMOCs)
(1) The Manager, International Validation 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 International Validation Branch, send it to the
attention of the person identified in paragraph (m)(1) of this AD.
Information may be emailed to: [email protected]. 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.
(2) For operations conducted under a 14 CFR part 119 operating
certificate or under 14 CFR part 91, subpart K, notify your
principal inspector or lacking a principal inspector, the manager of
the local flight standards district office or certificate holding
district office, before operating any aircraft complying with this
AD through an AMOC.
(m) Related Information
(1) For more information about this AD, contact Kathleen
Arrigotti, Aviation Safety Engineer, Large Aircraft Section,
International Validation Branch, FAA, 2200 South 216th St., Des
Moines, WA 98198; phone and fax: 206-231-3218; email:
[email protected].
(2) For service information identified in this AD, contact
Airbus Helicopters, 2701 N Forum Drive, Grand Prairie, TX 75052;
phone: 972-641-0000 or 800-232-0323; fax: 972-641-3775; or at
https://www.airbus.com/helicopters/services/technical-support.html.
You may view this service information at the FAA, Office of the
Regional Counsel, Southwest Region, 10101 Hillwood Pkwy., Room 6N-
321, Fort Worth, TX 76177. For information on the availability of
this material at the FAA, call 817-222-5110.
Issued on October 1, 2020.
Lance T. Gant,
Director, Compliance & Airworthiness Division, Aircraft Certification
Service.
[FR Doc. 2020-22115 Filed 10-6-20; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE 4910-13-P
