Airworthiness Directives; Airbus Helicopters, 69126-69129 [2020-23976]
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69126
Federal Register / Vol. 85, No. 212 / Monday, November 2, 2020 / Rules and Regulations
receiving the surplus personal property
has only conditional title only to the
surplus personal property during the
applicable period of restriction. Full
title to the property will vest in the
donee only after the donee has met all
of the requirements of this part and the
requirements of GSA and the SASP that
it received the property from.
Subpart C—Surplus Personal Property
for Small Businesses Located in
Puerto Rico
§ 129.300 What definitions are important in
this subpart?
Covered period means the period
beginning on August 13, 2018 and
ending on the date which the Oversight
Board established under section 101 of
the Puerto Rico Oversight, Management,
and Economic Stability Act (48 U.S.C.
2121) terminates. 15 U.S.C.
636(j)(13)(F)(iii).
Located in Puerto Rico means a
concern with a physical location in
Puerto Rico and organized under the
laws of Puerto Rico.
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§ 129.301 How does a small business
concern located in a Puerto Rico obtain
Federal surplus personal property?
(a) General. Pursuant to 15 U.S.C.
636(j)(13)(F)(iii), eligible small business
concerns located in Puerto Rico may
receive surplus Federal Government
property from the Puerto Rico State
Agency for Surplus Property (SASP).
The procedures set forth in 41 CFR part
102–37 and this section will be used to
transfer surplus personal property to
eligible small business concerns. The
property which may be transferred to
the Puerto Rico SASP for further
transfer to eligible small business
concerns includes all personal property
which has become available for
donation pursuant to 41 CFR 102–37.30.
(b) Eligibility to receive Federal
surplus personal property. To be eligible
to receive Federal surplus personal
property, on the date of transfer a
concern must:
(1) Be located in Puerto Rico;
(2) Qualify as small under the size
standard corresponding to its primary
NAICS code and certify its size in
SAM.gov, or a successor system, prior to
seeking access to surplus property.
SASPs and GSA may rely on concern’s
certification as small for purposes of
this program;
(3) Not be debarred, suspended, or
declared ineligible under Title 2 or Title
48 of the Code of Federal Regulations;
and
(4) Be engaged or expect to be engaged
in business activities making the item
useful to it.
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(c) Use of acquired surplus personal
property. (1) Eligible concerns may
acquire surplus Federal personal
property from the Puerto Rico SASP,
provided the concern represents and
agrees in writing:
(i) As to what the intended use of the
surplus personal property is to be;
(ii) That it will use the property to be
acquired in the normal conduct of its
business activities or be liable for the
fair rental value from the date of its
receipt;
(iii) That it will not sell or transfer the
property to be acquired to any party
other than the Federal Government as
required by GSA and SASP
requirements and guidelines;
(iv) That, at its own expense, it will
return the property to the SASP if
directed to do so by SBA, including
where the concern has not used the
property as intended within one year of
receipt;
(v) That, should it breach its
agreement not to sell or transfer the
property, it will be liable to the Federal
Government for the established fair
market value or the sale price,
whichever is greater, of the property
sold or transferred; and
(vi) That it will give GSA and SASPs
access to inspect the property and all
records pertaining to it.
(2) A concern receiving surplus
personal property pursuant to this
section assumes all liability associated
with or stemming from the use of the
property.
(d) Costs. Concerns acquiring surplus
personal property from a SASP must
pay a service fee to the SASP in
accordance with 41 CFR 102–37.280. In
no instance will any SASP charge a
concern more for any service than their
established fees charged to other
transferees.
(f) Title. Upon execution of the SASP
distribution document, the firm
receiving the surplus personal property
has only conditional title to the surplus
personal property during the applicable
period of restriction. Full title to the
surplus personal property will vest in
the donee only after the donee has met
all of the requirements of this part.
Jovita Carranza,
Administrator.
[FR Doc. 2020–22539 Filed 10–30–20; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE 8026–03–P
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DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION
Federal Aviation Administration
14 CFR Part 39
[Docket No. FAA–2020–0585; Product
Identifier 2019–SW–112–AD; Amendment
39–21297; AD 2020–22–01]
RIN 2120–AA64
Airworthiness Directives; Airbus
Helicopters
Federal Aviation
Administration (FAA), DOT.
ACTION: Final rule.
AGENCY:
The FAA is adopting a new
airworthiness directive (AD) for all
Airbus Helicopters Model AS332C,
AS332C1, AS332L, and AS332L1
helicopters. This AD requires inspecting
the affected parts and associated frame
bores for discrepancies, applicable
corrective actions, and reporting certain
information if necessary. This AD was
prompted by reports of corrosion on
attachment screws and fittings fastening
the main gearbox (MGB) suspension
bars to the fuselage. The actions of this
AD are intended to address an unsafe
condition on these products.
DATES: This AD is effective December 7,
2020.
The Director of the Federal Register
approved the incorporation by reference
of certain documents listed in this AD
as of December 7, 2020.
ADDRESSES: For service information
identified in this final rule, contact
Airbus Helicopters, 2701 N Forum
Drive, Grand Prairie, TX 75052;
telephone 972–641–0000 or 800–232–
0323; fax 972–641–3775; or at https://
www.airbus.com/helicopters/services/
technical-support.html. You may view
the referenced service information at the
FAA, Office of the Regional Counsel,
Southwest Region, 10101 Hillwood
Pkwy., Room 6N–321, Fort Worth, TX
76177. It is also available on the internet
at https://www.regulations.gov by
searching for and locating Docket No.
FAA–2020–0585.
SUMMARY:
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–
0585; 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 AD, the
European Union Aviation Safety Agency
(EASA) AD, any service information
that is incorporated by reference, any
comments received, and other
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Federal Register / Vol. 85, No. 212 / Monday, November 2, 2020 / Rules and Regulations
information. The street address for
Docket Operations is U.S. Department of
Transportation, Docket Operations, M–
30, West Building Ground Floor, Room
W12–140, 1200 New Jersey Avenue SE,
Washington, DC 20590.
FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT:
Kathleen Arrigotti, Aerospace 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.
SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION:
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Discussion
The FAA issued a notice of proposed
rulemaking (NPRM) to amend 14 CFR
part 39 by adding an AD that would
apply to all Airbus Helicopters Model
AS332C, AS332C1, AS332L, and
AS332L1 helicopters. The NPRM
published in the Federal Register on
July 20, 2020 (85 FR 43749). The NPRM
proposed to require accomplishing
actions specified in the service
information and sending certain
inspection results to the manufacturer.
The NPRM was prompted by EASA
AD No. 2019–0295, dated December 5,
2019, issued by EASA, which is the
Technical Agent for the Member States
of the European Union, to correct an
unsafe condition for all Airbus
Helicopters Model AS332C, AS332C1,
AS332L, and AS332L1 helicopters.
EASA advises that there were reports of
corrosion on attachment screws and
fittings fastening the rear MGB
suspension bars, right and left hand
sides, to the fuselage, and the
attachment screws and fitting fastening
the front MGB suspension bar to the
fuselage. Subsequent investigation
determined that during maintenance
visits of an identified batch of
helicopters between September 2012
and April 2019, application of
compound sealant on MGB suspension
bar attachment screws may not have
been accomplished using the approved
maintenance data. The EASA AD
requires a one-time inspection of the
affected parts, and depending on
findings, accomplishment of applicable
corrective actions. The compliance
times vary depending on helicopter
configuration.
For helicopters identified in Airbus
Helicopters Alert Service Bulletin (ASB)
AS332–53.02.05, Revision 1, dated
March 2, 2020, the earliest inspection
compliance time is within 100 flight
hours or 6 months after the effective
date of this AD, whichever occurs first.
For helicopters identified in Airbus
Helicopters ASB AS332–53.02.07,
Revision 0, dated October 21, 2019, the
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earliest inspection compliance time is
within 100 flight hours after the
effective date of this AD.
For helicopters identified in Airbus
Helicopters ASB AS332–53.02.05,
Revision 1, dated March 2, 2020, the
latest initial inspection compliance time
is within 3,800 flight hours or 3 years
and 6 months, whichever occurs first,
since the last maintenance action at
Airbus Helicopters Marignane. For
helicopters identified in Airbus
Helicopters ASB AS332–53.02.07,
Revision 0, dated October 21, 2019, the
latest initial inspection compliance time
is within 3,800 flight hours since last
removal.
The FAA is issuing this AD to address
corrosion on attachment fittings and
attachment screws for the MGB
suspension bars. This condition, if not
addressed, could lead to structural
failure of the MGB attachment screws,
resulting in detachment of MGB
suspension bars from the fuselage and
subsequent loss of control of the
helicopter.
Comments
The FAA gave the public the
opportunity to participate in developing
this final rule, but the FAA did not
receive any comments on the NPRM or
on the determination of the cost to the
public.
FAA’s Determination
This product has been approved by
EASA and is 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 issuing this AD after
evaluating all of the information
provided by EASA and determining the
unsafe condition exists and is likely to
exist or develop on other products of
these same type design.
Related Service Information Under 1
CFR Part 51
Airbus Helicopters has issued ASB
No. AS332–53.02.05, Revision 1, dated
March 2, 2020; and ASB No. AS332–
53.02.07, Revision 0, dated October 21,
2019, which specify procedures for
inspecting the attachment fittings and
attachment screws of the MGB
suspension bars and their frame bores
for discrepancies and corrective actions.
This inspection includes an inspection
of the attachment fittings and
attachment screws of the MGB
suspension bars for corrosion and an
inspection of the attachment screws for
evidence of sealing compound. The
corrective actions include replacing or
repairing corroded parts and replacing
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69127
screws that have sealing compound on
them. These documents are distinct
since they apply to different helicopter
models in different configurations.
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 has also issued
ASB No. AS332–53.02.05, Revision 0,
dated April 18, 2019, which specifies
procedures for inspecting the
attachment fittings and attachment
screws of the MGB suspension bars and
their frame bores for discrepancies and
corrective actions.
Costs of Compliance
The FAA estimates that this AD
affects 12 helicopters of U.S. Registry.
Labor rates are estimated at $85 per
work-hour. Based on these numbers, the
FAA estimates that operators may incur
the following costs in order to comply
with this AD. To comply with this AD,
the FAA estimates that it will take up
to about 16 work-hours, for an estimated
cost of $1,360 per helicopter and
$16,320 for the U.S. fleet. The FAA
estimates that it will take about 1 hour
per helicopter to comply with the oncondition reporting requirement in this
AD.
Paperwork Reduction Act
A federal agency may not conduct or
sponsor, and a person is not required to
respond to, nor shall a person be subject
to a penalty for failure to comply with
a collection of information subject to the
requirements of the Paperwork
Reduction Act unless that collection of
information displays a currently valid
OMB Control Number. The OMB
Control Number for this information
collection is 2120–0056. Public
reporting for this collection of
information is estimated to be
approximately 1 hour per response,
including the time for reviewing
instructions, searching existing data
sources, gathering and maintaining the
data needed, and completing and
reviewing the collection of information.
All responses to this collection of
information are mandatory. Send
comments regarding this burden
estimate or any other aspect of this
collection of information, including
suggestions for reducing this burden to:
Information Collection Clearance
Officer, Federal Aviation
Administration, 10101 Hillwood
Parkway, Fort Worth, TX 76177–1524.
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69128
Federal Register / Vol. 85, No. 212 / Monday, November 2, 2020 / Rules and Regulations
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 helicopters identified in this
rulemaking action.
Regulatory Findings
This AD will not have federalism
implications under Executive Order
13132. This AD will not have a
substantial direct effect on the States, on
the relationship between the national
government and the States, or on the
distribution of power and
responsibilities among the various
levels of government.
For the reasons discussed above, I
certify that this AD:
(1) Is not a ‘‘significant regulatory
action’’ under Executive Order 12866,
(2) Will not affect intrastate aviation
in Alaska, and
(3) Will not have a significant
economic impact, positive or negative,
on a substantial number of small entities
under the criteria of the Regulatory
Flexibility Act.
List of Subjects in 14 CFR Part 39
Air transportation, Aircraft, Aviation
safety, Incorporation by reference,
Safety.
Adoption of the Amendment
Accordingly, under the authority
delegated to me by the Administrator,
the FAA amends 14 CFR part 39 as
follows:
PART 39—AIRWORTHINESS
DIRECTIVES
1. The authority citation for part 39
continues to read as follows:
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■
Authority: 49 U.S.C. 106(g), 40113, 44701.
§ 39.13
[Amended]
2. The FAA amends § 39.13 by adding
the following new airworthiness
directive:
■
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2020–22–01 Airbus Helicopters:
Amendment 39–21297; Docket No.
FAA–2020–0585; Product Identifier
2019–SW–112–AD.
(a) Effective Date
This airworthiness directive (AD) becomes
effective December 7, 2020.
(b) Affected ADs
None.
(c) Applicability
This AD applies to all Airbus Helicopters
Model AS332C, AS332C1, AS332L, and
AS332L1 helicopters, certificated in any
category.
(d) Subject
Joint Aircraft Service Component (JASC)
Code: 5340, Fuselage main, attach fittings.
(e) Reason
This AD was prompted by reports of
corrosion on attachment screws and fittings
fastening the main gearbox (MGB)
suspension bars to the fuselage. The FAA is
issuing this AD to address corrosion on
attachment fittings and attachment screws for
the MGB suspension bars. This condition, if
not addressed, could lead to structural failure
of the MGB attachment screws, resulting in
detachment of MGB suspension bars from the
fuselage and subsequent loss of control of the
helicopter.
(f) 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.
(g) Definitions
Affected parts are attachment screws and
fitting(s) fastening the parts identified in
paragraphs (g)(1) and (2) of this AD.
(1) Rear MGB suspension bars, right and
left sides, to the fuselage.
(2) Front MGB suspension bar to the
fuselage.
(h) Inspection
Except as specified in paragraphs (j)(1)
through (3) of this AD: Within the applicable
compliance times identified in paragraph
(h)(1) or (2) of this AD, inspect each affected
part and its frame bores for discrepancies, in
accordance with the Accomplishment
Instructions, Section 3.B.2, of Airbus
Helicopters Alert Service Bulletin (ASB)
AS332–53.02.05, Revision 1, dated March 2,
2020; or Airbus Helicopters ASB AS332–
53.02.07, Revision 0, dated October 21, 2019,
as applicable. For the purposes of this
inspection, a discrepancy may be indicated
by corrosion on the MGB attachment fitting
or by sealing compound on the attachment
screws.
(1) Table 1 or 2, as applicable, of Section
1.E.2, ‘‘Compliance in service,’’ of Airbus
Helicopters ASB AS332–53.02.05, Revision
1, dated March 2, 2020.
(2) Table 1 of Section 1.E.2, ‘‘Compliance
in service,’’ of Airbus Helicopters ASB
AS332–53.02.07, dated October 21, 2019.
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(i) Corrective Action
Except as required by paragraph (j)(4) of
this AD: If, during the inspection required by
paragraph (h) of this AD, there is any
discrepancy, before further flight, do the
applicable corrective action (including
replacing or repairing corroded parts and
replacing screws that have sealing compound
on them), in accordance with the
Accomplishment Instructions, Section 3.B.2,
of Airbus Helicopters ASB AS332–53.02.05,
Revision 1, dated March 2, 2020; or ASB
AS332–53.02.07, Revision 0, dated October
21, 2019, as applicable.
(j) Exceptions to Service Information
Specifications
(1) Where Airbus Helicopters ASB AS332–
53.02.05, Revision 1, dated March 2, 2020,
uses the phrase ‘‘Revision 0 of this ASB
issued on April 18, 2019,’’ this AD requires
using ‘‘the effective date of this AD.’’
(2) Where Airbus Helicopters ASB AS332–
53.02.07, Revision 0, dated October 21, 2019,
uses the phrase ‘‘receipt of this ASB,’’ this
AD requires using ‘‘the effective date of this
AD.’’
(3) Where Airbus Helicopters ASB AS332–
53.02.05, Revision 1, dated March 2, 2020;
and ASB AS332–53.02.07, Revision 0, dated
October 21, 2019, specify discarding parts,
you are not required to discard parts.
(4) Where Airbus Helicopters ASB AS332–
53.02.05, Revision 1, dated March 2, 2020;
and ASB AS332–53.02.07, Revision 0, dated
October 21, 2019, specify contacting Airbus
Helicopters for repair instructions: This AD
requires repair using a method approved by
the Manager, Rotorcraft Standards Branch,
FAA. The Manager’s approval letter must
specifically refer to this AD.
(k) Reporting
If, during the inspection required by
paragraph (h) of this AD, there is any
discrepancy, report the inspection results to
Airbus Helicopters at the applicable time
specified in paragraph (k)(1) or (2) of this AD.
The report should include the information
specified in Appendix 4.A. of Airbus
Helicopters ASB AS332–53.02.05, Revision
1, dated March 2, 2020; or ASB AS332–
53.02.07, Revision 0, dated October 21, 2019,
as applicable.
(1) If the inspection was done on or after
the effective date of this AD: Submit the
report within 30 days after the inspection.
(2) If the inspection was done before the
effective date of this AD: Submit the report
within 30 days after the effective date of this
AD.
(l) Credit for Previous Actions
For helicopters identified in Airbus
Helicopters ASB AS332–53.02.05, Revision
1, dated March 2, 2020: This paragraph
provides credit for actions required by
paragraphs (g) and (h) of this AD, if those
actions were performed before the effective
date of this AD using Airbus Helicopters ASB
AS332–53.02.05, Revision 0, dated April 18,
2019.
(m) Paperwork Reduction Act Burden
Statement
A federal agency may not conduct or
sponsor, and a person is not required to
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Federal Register / Vol. 85, No. 212 / Monday, November 2, 2020 / Rules and Regulations
respond to, nor shall a person be subject to
a penalty for failure to comply with a
collection of information subject to the
requirements of the Paperwork Reduction
Act unless that collection of information
displays a currently valid OMB Control
Number. The OMB Control Number for this
information collection is 2120–0056. Public
reporting for this collection of information is
estimated to be approximately 1 hour per
response, including the time for reviewing
instructions, searching existing data sources,
gathering and maintaining the data needed,
and completing and reviewing the collection
of information. All responses to this
collection of information are mandatory.
Send comments regarding this burden
estimate or any other aspect of this collection
of information, including suggestions for
reducing this burden to: Information
Collection Clearance Officer, Federal
Aviation Administration, 10101 Hillwood
Parkway, Fort Worth, TX 76177–1524.
(n) Alternative Methods of Compliance
(AMOCs)
(1) The Manager, Rotorcraft Standards
Branch, FAA, may approve AMOCs for this
AD. Send your proposal to: Manager,
Rotorcraft Standards Branch, FAA, 10101
Hillwood Pkwy., Fort Worth, TX 76177;
telephone 817–222–5110; email 9-ASW-FTWAMOC-Requests@faa.gov.
(2) For operations conducted under a 14
CFR part 119 operating certificate or under
14 CFR part 91, subpart K, 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.
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(o) Related Information
(1) The subject of this AD is addressed in
European Union Aviation Safety Agency
(EASA) AD No. 2019–0295, dated December
5, 2019. You may view the EASA AD on the
internet at https://www.regulations.gov in
Docket No. FAA–2020–0585.
(2) For service information identified in
this AD, contact Airbus Helicopters, 2701 N
Forum Drive, Grand Prairie, TX 75052;
telephone 972–641–0000 or 800–232–0323;
fax 972–641–3775; or at https://
www.airbus.com/helicopters/services/
technical-support.html. You may view a copy
of the service information at the FAA, Office
of the Regional Counsel, Southwest Region,
10101 Hillwood Pkwy., Room 6N–321, Fort
Worth, TX 76177.
(p) Material Incorporated by Reference
(1) The Director of the Federal Register
approved the incorporation by reference of
the service information listed in this
paragraph under 5 U.S.C. 552(a) and 1 CFR
part 51.
(2) You must use this service information
as applicable to do the actions required by
this AD, unless the AD specifies otherwise.
(i) Airbus Helicopters Alert Service
Bulletin (ASB) AS332–53.02.05, Revision 1,
dated March 2, 2020.
(ii) Airbus Helicopters ASB AS332–
53.02.07, Revision 0, dated October 21, 2019.
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Jkt 253001
(3) For service information identified in
this AD, contact Airbus Helicopters, 2701 N
Forum Drive, Grand Prairie, TX 75052;
telephone 972–641–0000 or 800–232–0323;
fax 972–641–3775; or at https://
www.airbus.com/helicopters/services/
technical-support.html.
(4) You may view this service information
at the FAA, Office of the Regional Counsel,
Southwest Region, 10101 Hillwood Pkwy.,
Room 6N–321, Fort Worth, TX 76177. For
information on the availability of this
material at the FAA, call 817–222–5110.
(5) You may view this service information
that is incorporated by reference at the
National Archives and Records
Administration (NARA). For information on
the availability of this material at NARA,
email fedreg.legal@nara.gov, or go to: https://
www.archives.gov/federal-register/cfr/ibrlocations.html.
Issued on October 13, 2020.
Lance T. Gant,
Director, Compliance & Airworthiness
Division, Aircraft Certification Service.
[FR Doc. 2020–23976 Filed 10–30–20; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE 4910–13–P
DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION
Federal Aviation Administration
14 CFR Part 39
[Docket No. FAA–2020–0583; Product
Identifier 2020–NM–071–AD; Amendment
39–21291; AD 2020–21–18]
RIN 2120–AA64
Airworthiness Directives; Airbus SAS
Airplanes
Federal Aviation
Administration (FAA), Department of
Transportation (DOT).
ACTION: Final rule.
AGENCY:
The FAA is superseding
Airworthiness Directive (AD) 2019–14–
09, which applied to all Airbus SAS
Model A330–200 Freighter series
airplanes. AD 2019–14–09 required
repetitive detailed inspections,
including functional testing, of the
oxygen crew and courier distribution
system (OCCDS) and replacement of
affected part(s) if necessary. This AD
retains the requirements of AD 2019–
14–09 and requires replacement of all
affected parts with improved serviceable
parts, which is terminating action for
the repetitive inspections, as specified
in a European Union Aviation Safety
Agency (EASA) AD, which will be
incorporated by reference. The FAA is
issuing this AD to address the unsafe
condition on these products.
DATES: This AD is effective December 7,
2020.
The Director of the Federal Register
approved the incorporation by reference
SUMMARY:
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69129
of a certain publication listed in this AD
as of December 7, 2020.
ADDRESSES: For the EASA material
incorporated by reference (IBR) in this
AD, 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
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–
0583.
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–
0583; or in person at Docket Operations
between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m., Monday
through Friday, except Federal holidays.
The AD docket contains this final rule,
any comments received, and other
information. The address for Docket
Operations is U.S. Department of
Transportation, Docket Operations, M–
30, West Building Ground Floor, Room
W12–140, 1200 New Jersey Avenue SE,
Washington, DC 20590.
FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT:
Vladimir Ulyanov, Aerospace Engineer,
Large Aircraft Section, International
Validation Branch, FAA, 2200 South
216th St., Des Moines, WA 98198;
telephone and fax 206–231–3229; email
Vladimir.Ulyanov@faa.gov.
SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION:
Discussion
The EASA, which is the Technical
Agent for the Member States of the
European Union, has issued EASA AD
2020–0092, dated April 24, 2020
(‘‘EASA AD 2020–0092’’) (also referred
to as the Mandatory Continuing
Airworthiness Information, or ‘‘the
MCAI’’), to correct an unsafe condition
for certain Airbus SAS Model A330–
223F and A330–243F airplanes. EASA
AD 2020–0092 superseded EASA AD
2019–0027, dated February 4, 2019
(‘‘EASA AD 2019–0027’’) (which
corresponds to FAA AD 2019–14–09,
Amendment 39–19687 (84 FR 37957,
August 5, 2019) (‘‘AD 2019–14–09’’)).
The FAA issued a notice of proposed
rulemaking (NPRM) to amend 14 CFR
part 39 to supersede AD 2019–14–09.
E:\FR\FM\02NOR1.SGM
02NOR1
]]>Agencies
[Federal Register Volume 85, Number 212 (Monday, November 2, 2020)]
[Rules and Regulations]
[Pages 69126-69129]
From the Federal Register Online via the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]
[FR Doc No: 2020-23976]
=======================================================================
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DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION
Federal Aviation Administration
14 CFR Part 39
[Docket No. FAA-2020-0585; Product Identifier 2019-SW-112-AD; Amendment
39-21297; AD 2020-22-01]
RIN 2120-AA64
Airworthiness Directives; Airbus Helicopters
AGENCY: Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), DOT.
ACTION: Final rule.
-----------------------------------------------------------------------
SUMMARY: The FAA is adopting a new airworthiness directive (AD) for all
Airbus Helicopters Model AS332C, AS332C1, AS332L, and AS332L1
helicopters. This AD requires inspecting the affected parts and
associated frame bores for discrepancies, applicable corrective
actions, and reporting certain information if necessary. This AD was
prompted by reports of corrosion on attachment screws and fittings
fastening the main gearbox (MGB) suspension bars to the fuselage. The
actions of this AD are intended to address an unsafe condition on these
products.
DATES: This AD is effective December 7, 2020.
The Director of the Federal Register approved the incorporation by
reference of certain documents listed in this AD as of December 7,
2020.
ADDRESSES: For service information identified in this final rule,
contact Airbus Helicopters, 2701 N Forum Drive, Grand Prairie, TX
75052; telephone 972-641-0000 or 800-232-0323; fax 972-641-3775; or at
https://www.airbus.com/helicopters/services/technical-support.html. You
may view the referenced service information at the FAA, Office of the
Regional Counsel, Southwest Region, 10101 Hillwood Pkwy., Room 6N-321,
Fort Worth, TX 76177. It is also available on the internet at https://www.regulations.gov by searching for and locating Docket No. FAA-2020-
0585.
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-
0585; 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 AD, the European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) AD, any
service information that is incorporated by reference, any comments
received, and other
[[Page 69127]]
information. The street address for Docket Operations is U.S.
Department of Transportation, Docket Operations, M-30, West Building
Ground Floor, Room W12-140, 1200 New Jersey Avenue SE, Washington, DC
20590.
FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Kathleen Arrigotti, Aerospace
Engineer, Large Aircraft Section, International Validation Branch, FAA,
2200 South 216th St., Des Moines, WA 98198; telephone and fax 206-231-
3218; email [email protected].
SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION:
Discussion
The FAA issued a notice of proposed rulemaking (NPRM) to amend 14
CFR part 39 by adding an AD that would apply to all Airbus Helicopters
Model AS332C, AS332C1, AS332L, and AS332L1 helicopters. The NPRM
published in the Federal Register on July 20, 2020 (85 FR 43749). The
NPRM proposed to require accomplishing actions specified in the service
information and sending certain inspection results to the manufacturer.
The NPRM was prompted by EASA AD No. 2019-0295, dated December 5,
2019, issued by EASA, which is the Technical Agent for the Member
States of the European Union, to correct an unsafe condition for all
Airbus Helicopters Model AS332C, AS332C1, AS332L, and AS332L1
helicopters. EASA advises that there were reports of corrosion on
attachment screws and fittings fastening the rear MGB suspension bars,
right and left hand sides, to the fuselage, and the attachment screws
and fitting fastening the front MGB suspension bar to the fuselage.
Subsequent investigation determined that during maintenance visits of
an identified batch of helicopters between September 2012 and April
2019, application of compound sealant on MGB suspension bar attachment
screws may not have been accomplished using the approved maintenance
data. The EASA AD requires a one-time inspection of the affected parts,
and depending on findings, accomplishment of applicable corrective
actions. The compliance times vary depending on helicopter
configuration.
For helicopters identified in Airbus Helicopters Alert Service
Bulletin (ASB) AS332-53.02.05, Revision 1, dated March 2, 2020, the
earliest inspection compliance time is within 100 flight hours or 6
months after the effective date of this AD, whichever occurs first. For
helicopters identified in Airbus Helicopters ASB AS332-53.02.07,
Revision 0, dated October 21, 2019, the earliest inspection compliance
time is within 100 flight hours after the effective date of this AD.
For helicopters identified in Airbus Helicopters ASB AS332-
53.02.05, Revision 1, dated March 2, 2020, the latest initial
inspection compliance time is within 3,800 flight hours or 3 years and
6 months, whichever occurs first, since the last maintenance action at
Airbus Helicopters Marignane. For helicopters identified in Airbus
Helicopters ASB AS332-53.02.07, Revision 0, dated October 21, 2019, the
latest initial inspection compliance time is within 3,800 flight hours
since last removal.
The FAA is issuing this AD to address corrosion on attachment
fittings and attachment screws for the MGB suspension bars. This
condition, if not addressed, could lead to structural failure of the
MGB attachment screws, resulting in detachment of MGB suspension bars
from the fuselage and subsequent loss of control of the helicopter.
Comments
The FAA gave the public the opportunity to participate in
developing this final rule, but the FAA did not receive any comments on
the NPRM or on the determination of the cost to the public.
FAA's Determination
This product has been approved by EASA and is 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 issuing this AD after
evaluating all of the information provided by EASA and determining the
unsafe condition exists and is likely to exist or develop on other
products of these same type design.
Related Service Information Under 1 CFR Part 51
Airbus Helicopters has issued ASB No. AS332-53.02.05, Revision 1,
dated March 2, 2020; and ASB No. AS332-53.02.07, Revision 0, dated
October 21, 2019, which specify procedures for inspecting the
attachment fittings and attachment screws of the MGB suspension bars
and their frame bores for discrepancies and corrective actions. This
inspection includes an inspection of the attachment fittings and
attachment screws of the MGB suspension bars for corrosion and an
inspection of the attachment screws for evidence of sealing compound.
The corrective actions include replacing or repairing corroded parts
and replacing screws that have sealing compound on them. These
documents are distinct since they apply to different helicopter models
in different configurations.
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 has also issued ASB No. AS332-53.02.05, Revision
0, dated April 18, 2019, which specifies procedures for inspecting the
attachment fittings and attachment screws of the MGB suspension bars
and their frame bores for discrepancies and corrective actions.
Costs of Compliance
The FAA estimates that this AD affects 12 helicopters of U.S.
Registry. Labor rates are estimated at $85 per work-hour. Based on
these numbers, the FAA estimates that operators may incur the following
costs in order to comply with this AD. To comply with this AD, the FAA
estimates that it will take up to about 16 work-hours, for an estimated
cost of $1,360 per helicopter and $16,320 for the U.S. fleet. The FAA
estimates that it will take about 1 hour per helicopter to comply with
the on-condition reporting requirement in this AD.
Paperwork Reduction Act
A federal agency may not conduct or sponsor, and a person is not
required to respond to, nor shall a person be subject to a penalty for
failure to comply with a collection of information subject to the
requirements of the Paperwork Reduction Act unless that collection of
information displays a currently valid OMB Control Number. The OMB
Control Number for this information collection is 2120-0056. Public
reporting for this collection of information is estimated to be
approximately 1 hour per response, including the time for reviewing
instructions, searching existing data sources, gathering and
maintaining the data needed, and completing and reviewing the
collection of information. All responses to this collection of
information are mandatory. Send comments regarding this burden estimate
or any other aspect of this collection of information, including
suggestions for reducing this burden to: Information Collection
Clearance Officer, Federal Aviation Administration, 10101 Hillwood
Parkway, Fort Worth, TX 76177-1524.
[[Page 69128]]
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 helicopters identified in this rulemaking action.
Regulatory Findings
This AD will not have federalism implications under Executive Order
13132. This AD will not have a substantial direct effect on the States,
on the relationship between the national government and the States, or
on the distribution of power and responsibilities among the various
levels of government.
For the reasons discussed above, I certify that this AD:
(1) Is not a ``significant regulatory action'' under Executive
Order 12866,
(2) Will not affect intrastate aviation in Alaska, and
(3) Will not have a significant economic impact, positive or
negative, on a substantial number of small entities under the criteria
of the Regulatory Flexibility Act.
List of Subjects in 14 CFR Part 39
Air transportation, Aircraft, Aviation safety, Incorporation by
reference, Safety.
Adoption of the Amendment
Accordingly, under the authority delegated to me by the
Administrator, the FAA amends 14 CFR part 39 as follows:
PART 39--AIRWORTHINESS DIRECTIVES
0
1. The authority citation for part 39 continues to read as follows:
Authority: 49 U.S.C. 106(g), 40113, 44701.
Sec. 39.13 [Amended]
0
2. The FAA amends Sec. 39.13 by adding the following new airworthiness
directive:
2020-22-01 Airbus Helicopters: Amendment 39-21297; Docket No. FAA-
2020-0585; Product Identifier 2019-SW-112-AD.
(a) Effective Date
This airworthiness directive (AD) becomes effective December 7,
2020.
(b) Affected ADs
None.
(c) Applicability
This AD applies to all Airbus Helicopters Model AS332C, AS332C1,
AS332L, and AS332L1 helicopters, certificated in any category.
(d) Subject
Joint Aircraft Service Component (JASC) Code: 5340, Fuselage
main, attach fittings.
(e) Reason
This AD was prompted by reports of corrosion on attachment
screws and fittings fastening the main gearbox (MGB) suspension bars
to the fuselage. The FAA is issuing this AD to address corrosion on
attachment fittings and attachment screws for the MGB suspension
bars. This condition, if not addressed, could lead to structural
failure of the MGB attachment screws, resulting in detachment of MGB
suspension bars from the fuselage and subsequent loss of control of
the helicopter.
(f) 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.
(g) Definitions
Affected parts are attachment screws and fitting(s) fastening
the parts identified in paragraphs (g)(1) and (2) of this AD.
(1) Rear MGB suspension bars, right and left sides, to the
fuselage.
(2) Front MGB suspension bar to the fuselage.
(h) Inspection
Except as specified in paragraphs (j)(1) through (3) of this AD:
Within the applicable compliance times identified in paragraph
(h)(1) or (2) of this AD, inspect each affected part and its frame
bores for discrepancies, in accordance with the Accomplishment
Instructions, Section 3.B.2, of Airbus Helicopters Alert Service
Bulletin (ASB) AS332-53.02.05, Revision 1, dated March 2, 2020; or
Airbus Helicopters ASB AS332-53.02.07, Revision 0, dated October 21,
2019, as applicable. For the purposes of this inspection, a
discrepancy may be indicated by corrosion on the MGB attachment
fitting or by sealing compound on the attachment screws.
(1) Table 1 or 2, as applicable, of Section 1.E.2, ``Compliance
in service,'' of Airbus Helicopters ASB AS332-53.02.05, Revision 1,
dated March 2, 2020.
(2) Table 1 of Section 1.E.2, ``Compliance in service,'' of
Airbus Helicopters ASB AS332-53.02.07, dated October 21, 2019.
(i) Corrective Action
Except as required by paragraph (j)(4) of this AD: If, during
the inspection required by paragraph (h) of this AD, there is any
discrepancy, before further flight, do the applicable corrective
action (including replacing or repairing corroded parts and
replacing screws that have sealing compound on them), in accordance
with the Accomplishment Instructions, Section 3.B.2, of Airbus
Helicopters ASB AS332-53.02.05, Revision 1, dated March 2, 2020; or
ASB AS332-53.02.07, Revision 0, dated October 21, 2019, as
applicable.
(j) Exceptions to Service Information Specifications
(1) Where Airbus Helicopters ASB AS332-53.02.05, Revision 1,
dated March 2, 2020, uses the phrase ``Revision 0 of this ASB issued
on April 18, 2019,'' this AD requires using ``the effective date of
this AD.''
(2) Where Airbus Helicopters ASB AS332-53.02.07, Revision 0,
dated October 21, 2019, uses the phrase ``receipt of this ASB,''
this AD requires using ``the effective date of this AD.''
(3) Where Airbus Helicopters ASB AS332-53.02.05, Revision 1,
dated March 2, 2020; and ASB AS332-53.02.07, Revision 0, dated
October 21, 2019, specify discarding parts, you are not required to
discard parts.
(4) Where Airbus Helicopters ASB AS332-53.02.05, Revision 1,
dated March 2, 2020; and ASB AS332-53.02.07, Revision 0, dated
October 21, 2019, specify contacting Airbus Helicopters for repair
instructions: This AD requires repair using a method approved by the
Manager, Rotorcraft Standards Branch, FAA. The Manager's approval
letter must specifically refer to this AD.
(k) Reporting
If, during the inspection required by paragraph (h) of this AD,
there is any discrepancy, report the inspection results to Airbus
Helicopters at the applicable time specified in paragraph (k)(1) or
(2) of this AD. The report should include the information specified
in Appendix 4.A. of Airbus Helicopters ASB AS332-53.02.05, Revision
1, dated March 2, 2020; or ASB AS332-53.02.07, Revision 0, dated
October 21, 2019, as applicable.
(1) If the inspection was done on or after the effective date of
this AD: Submit the report within 30 days after the inspection.
(2) If the inspection was done before the effective date of this
AD: Submit the report within 30 days after the effective date of
this AD.
(l) Credit for Previous Actions
For helicopters identified in Airbus Helicopters ASB AS332-
53.02.05, Revision 1, dated March 2, 2020: This paragraph provides
credit for actions required by paragraphs (g) and (h) of this AD, if
those actions were performed before the effective date of this AD
using Airbus Helicopters ASB AS332-53.02.05, Revision 0, dated April
18, 2019.
(m) Paperwork Reduction Act Burden Statement
A federal agency may not conduct or sponsor, and a person is not
required to
[[Page 69129]]
respond to, nor shall a person be subject to a penalty for failure
to comply with a collection of information subject to the
requirements of the Paperwork Reduction Act unless that collection
of information displays a currently valid OMB Control Number. The
OMB Control Number for this information collection is 2120-0056.
Public reporting for this collection of information is estimated to
be approximately 1 hour per response, including the time for
reviewing instructions, searching existing data sources, gathering
and maintaining the data needed, and completing and reviewing the
collection of information. All responses to this collection of
information are mandatory. Send comments regarding this burden
estimate or any other aspect of this collection of information,
including suggestions for reducing this burden to: Information
Collection Clearance Officer, Federal Aviation Administration, 10101
Hillwood Parkway, Fort Worth, TX 76177-1524.
(n) Alternative Methods of Compliance (AMOCs)
(1) The Manager, Rotorcraft Standards Branch, FAA, may approve
AMOCs for this AD. Send your proposal to: Manager, Rotorcraft
Standards Branch, FAA, 10101 Hillwood Pkwy., Fort Worth, TX 76177;
telephone 817-222-5110; email [email protected].
(2) For operations conducted under a 14 CFR part 119 operating
certificate or under 14 CFR part 91, subpart K, the FAA suggests
that you notify your principal inspector, or lacking a principal
inspector, the manager of the local flight standards district office
or certificate holding district office, before operating any
aircraft complying with this AD through an AMOC.
(o) Related Information
(1) The subject of this AD is addressed in European Union
Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) AD No. 2019-0295, dated December 5,
2019. You may view the EASA AD on the internet at https://www.regulations.gov in Docket No. FAA-2020-0585.
(2) For service information identified in this AD, contact
Airbus Helicopters, 2701 N Forum Drive, Grand Prairie, TX 75052;
telephone 972-641-0000 or 800-232-0323; fax 972-641-3775; or at
https://www.airbus.com/helicopters/services/technical-support.html.
You may view a copy of the service information at the FAA, Office of
the Regional Counsel, Southwest Region, 10101 Hillwood Pkwy., Room
6N-321, Fort Worth, TX 76177.
(p) Material Incorporated by Reference
(1) The Director of the Federal Register approved the
incorporation by reference of the service information listed in this
paragraph under 5 U.S.C. 552(a) and 1 CFR part 51.
(2) You must use this service information as applicable to do
the actions required by this AD, unless the AD specifies otherwise.
(i) Airbus Helicopters Alert Service Bulletin (ASB) AS332-
53.02.05, Revision 1, dated March 2, 2020.
(ii) Airbus Helicopters ASB AS332-53.02.07, Revision 0, dated
October 21, 2019.
(3) For service information identified in this AD, contact
Airbus Helicopters, 2701 N Forum Drive, Grand Prairie, TX 75052;
telephone 972-641-0000 or 800-232-0323; fax 972-641-3775; or at
https://www.airbus.com/helicopters/services/technical-support.html.
(4) You may view this service information at the FAA, Office of
the Regional Counsel, Southwest Region, 10101 Hillwood Pkwy., Room
6N-321, Fort Worth, TX 76177. For information on the availability of
this material at the FAA, call 817-222-5110.
(5) You may view this service information that is incorporated
by reference at the National Archives and Records Administration
(NARA). For information on the availability of this material at
NARA, email [email protected], or go to: https://www.archives.gov/federal-register/cfr/ibr-locations.html.
Issued on October 13, 2020.
Lance T. Gant,
Director, Compliance & Airworthiness Division, Aircraft Certification
Service.
[FR Doc. 2020-23976 Filed 10-30-20; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE 4910-13-P
