Airworthiness Directives; Airbus Helicopters, 69131-69134 [2020-23977]
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Federal Register / Vol. 85, No. 212 / Monday, November 2, 2020 / Rules and Regulations
2020–0092, dated April 24, 2020 (‘‘EASA AD
2020–0092’’).
(d) Subject
Air Transport Association (ATA) of
America Code 35, Oxygen.
(e) Reason
This AD was prompted by reports of
cracked flexible hoses of the oxygen crew
and courier distribution system (OCCDS) on
Model A330 freighter airplanes. The FAA is
proposing this AD to address cracked oxygen
hoses. This condition, if not addressed, could
lead to oxygen leakage in the flexible hose of
the OCCDS, which, in combination with inflight depressurization, smoke in the flight
deck, or a smoke evacuation procedure,
could result in crew injury and reduced
control of the airplane.
(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, EASA AD 2020–0092.
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(h) Exceptions to EASA AD 2020–0092
(1) Where EASA AD 2020–0092 refers to its
effective date, this AD requires using the
effective date of this AD.
(2) Where EASA AD 2020–0092 refers to
February 18, 2019 (the effective date of EASA
AD 2019–0027, dated February 4, 2019), this
AD requires using September 9, 2019 (the
effective date of AD 2019–14–09).
(3) The ‘‘Remarks’’ section of EASA AD
2020–0092 does not apply to this AD.
(i) Other FAA AD Provisions
The following provisions also apply to this
AD:
(1) Alternative Methods of Compliance
(AMOCs): The Manager, Large Aircraft
Section, 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 responsible Flight
Standards Office, as appropriate. If sending
information directly to the Large Aircraft
Section, International Validation Branch,
send it to the attention of the person
identified in paragraph (j) of this AD.
Information may be emailed to: 9-AVS-AIR730-AMOC@faa.gov. Before using any
approved AMOC, notify your appropriate
principal inspector, or lacking a principal
inspector, the manager of the responsible
Flight Standards Office.
(2) Contacting the Manufacturer: For any
requirement in this AD to obtain instructions
from a manufacturer, the instructions must
be accomplished using a method approved
by the Manager, Large Aircraft Section,
International Validation Branch, FAA; or
EASA; or Airbus SAS’s EASA Design
Organization Approval (DOA). If approved by
the DOA, the approval must include the
DOA-authorized signature.
(3) Required for Compliance (RC): For any
service information referenced in EASA AD
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2020–0092 that contains RC procedures and
tests: Except as required by paragraph (i)(2)
of this AD, RC procedures and tests must be
done to comply with this AD; any procedures
or tests that are not identified as RC are
recommended. Those procedures and tests
that are not identified as RC may be deviated
from using accepted methods in accordance
with the operator’s maintenance or
inspection program without obtaining
approval of an AMOC, provided the
procedures and tests identified as RC can be
done and the airplane can be put back in an
airworthy condition. Any substitutions or
changes to procedures or tests identified as
RC require approval of an AMOC.
(j) Related Information
For more information about this AD,
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.
(k) Material Incorporated by Reference
(1) The Director of the Federal Register
approved the incorporation by reference
(IBR) of the service information listed in this
paragraph under 5 U.S.C. 552(a) and 1 CFR
part 51.
(2) You must use this service information
as applicable to do the actions required by
this AD, unless this AD specifies otherwise.
(3) The following service information was
approved for IBR on December 7, 2020.
(i) European Union Aviation Safety Agency
(EASA) AD 2020–0092, dated April 24, 2020.
(ii) [Reserved]
(4) For EASA AD 2020–0092, contact the
EASA, Konrad-Adenauer-Ufer 3, 50668
Cologne, Germany; telephone +49 221 8999
000; email ADs@easa.europa.eu; internet
www.easa.europa.eu. You may find this
EASA AD on the EASA website at https://
ad.easa.europa.eu.
(5) You may view this 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. 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–2020–0583.
(6) You may view this material that is
incorporated by reference at the National
Archives and Records Administration
(NARA). For information on the availability
of this material at NARA, email fedreg.legal@
nara.gov, or go to: https://www.archives.gov/
federal-register/cfr/ibr-locations.html.
Issued on October 8, 2020.
Gaetano A. Sciortino,
Deputy Director for Strategic Initiatives,
Compliance & Airworthiness Division,
Aircraft Certification Service.
[FR Doc. 2020–24099 Filed 10–30–20; 8:45 am]
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69131
DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION
Federal Aviation Administration
14 CFR Part 39
[Docket No. FAA–2020–0618; Product
Identifier 2019–SW–064–AD; Amendment
39–21288; AD 2020–21–15]
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 Airbus
Helicopters Model AS–365N2, AS 365
N3, EC 155B, EC155B1, and SA–365N1
helicopters. This AD requires inspecting
the tail rotor gearbox (TGB) housing
recess, and depending on the inspection
results, performing more in-depth
inspections and removing certain parts
from service. This AD also prohibits
installing a TGB unless it has passed
certain inspections and has a new TGB
control rod bearing installed. This AD
was prompted by the discovery of a
foreign object obstructing the oil duct of
a TGB control bearing. 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–2020–0618.
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–
0618; 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
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Federal Register / Vol. 85, No. 212 / Monday, November 2, 2020 / Rules and Regulations
(EASA) AD, any service information
that is incorporated by reference, any
comments received, and other
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: Rao
Edupuganti, Aviation Safety Engineer,
Regulations and Policy Section,
Rotorcraft Standards Branch, FAA,
10101 Hillwood Pkwy., Fort Worth, TX
76177; telephone 817–222–5110; email
rao.edupuganti@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 Airbus Helicopters Model AS–
365N2, AS 365 N3, EC 155B, EC155B1,
and SA–365N1 helicopters. The NPRM
published in the Federal Register on
June 23, 2020 (85 FR 37591). The NPRM
proposed to require opening the TGB oil
filter plug cover and removing the TGB
oil filter plug, and then borescope
inspecting for oil retention and visibility
of the two T holes in the TGB housing
recess. If there is any oil retention and
the two T holes are not completely
visible, the NPRM proposed to require
removing the TGB control rod and
inspecting for and removing any foreign
object in the TGB oil duct. The NPRM
also proposed to require re-inspecting
the TGB housing recess with all of the
oil drained. If, during the re-inspection,
there is any oil retention and the two T
holes are not completely visible, the
NPRM proposed to require replacing the
TGB. If, during the re-inspection, there
is no oil retention and the two T holes
are completely visible, the NPRM
proposed to require inspecting for and
removing any foreign object from the
TGB oil duct and inspecting the TGB oil
duct for correct oil flow. If the oil does
not flow correctly, the NPRM proposed
to require replacing the TGB. If the oil
flows correctly, the NPRM proposed to
require removing the TGB control rod
bearing from service. The NPRM also
proposed to prohibit the installation of
a TGB unless it passes the proposed
inspections. A non-installed TGB would
be inspected in a level position using
shims.
The NPRM was prompted by EASA
AD No. 2019–0165–E, dated July 12,
2019, issued by EASA, which is the
Technical Agent for the Member States
of the European Union, to correct an
unsafe condition for Airbus Helicopters
(formerly Eurocopter, Eurocopter
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France, Aerospatiale, Sud Aviation)
Model AS 365 N2, AS 365 N3, EC 155
B, EC 155 B1, and SA 365 N1
helicopters. EASA advises of a foreign
object that was found obstructing the oil
duct of the TGB control bearing during
a routine inspection, causing a lack of
lubrication on the bearing. EASA states
this condition, if not detected and
corrected, could affect the correct
operation of the TGB and possibly result
in reduced control of the helicopter.
Accordingly, the EASA AD requires a
one-time inspection of the TGB housing
recess and TGB oil duct housing, and
depending on the findings, applicable
investigative and corrective actions. The
EASA AD also prohibits installation of
a TGB unless it has passed the specified
inspections.
Comments
The FAA gave the public the
opportunity to participate in developing
this final rule. The following presents
the comment received on the NPRM and
the FAA’s response to the comment.
Request
A commenter asked who will be
conducting the TGB inspections and
how often the inspections will take
place. A mechanic that meets the
requirements of 14 CFR part 65 subpart
D must perform the TGB inspections,
which are required within 55 hours
time-in-service or 5 months, whichever
occurs first.
FAA’s Determination
These helicopters have been approved
by EASA and are approved for operation
in the United States. Pursuant to the
FAA’s bilateral agreement with the
European Union, EASA has notified the
FAA of the unsafe condition described
in its AD. The FAA is 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 helicopters of
the same type designs and that air safety
and the public interest require adopting
the AD requirements as proposed except
for updating the Costs of Compliance
section due to an increase in the number
of registered helicopters. These changes
are consistent with the intent that was
proposed in the NPRM for addressing
the unsafe condition and do not add any
additional burden upon the public than
was already proposed in the NPRM.
Differences Between this AD and the
EASA AD
If required to remove a TGB, the
EASA AD requires marking and
returning the TGB to Airbus
Helicopters, whereas this AD does not
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require marking or returning the TGB to
Airbus Helicopters.
Related Service Information Under 1
CFR Part 51
The FAA reviewed one document that
co-publishes four Airbus Helicopters
Emergency Alert Service Bulletin
(EASB) identification numbers: No.
65.00.09 for non FAA-type certificated
military Model AS565MA, MB, MBe,
SA, SB, and UB helicopters; No.
65.00.19 for Model AS365N1, N2, and
N3 helicopters, and non FAA-type
certificated military Model AS365F, Fi,
K, and K2 helicopters; No. 65.06 for non
FAA-type certificated military Model
SA366GA helicopters; and No. 65A008
for Model EC155B and B1 helicopters,
all Revision 0 and dated July 10, 2019.
EASB Nos. 65.00.19 and 65A008 are
incorporated by reference in this AD.
EASB Nos. 65.00.09 and 65.06 are not
incorporated by reference in this AD.
This service information specifies
procedures, using an endoscope
(borescope), to inspect the TGB housing
recess for oil retention and the two T
holes for visibility. If there is oil
retention and the two T holes are not
visible, this service information
specifies removing the TGB control rod
and inspecting for and removing any
foreign objects in the TGB oil duct, and
then repeating the TGB housing recess
inspections. If there is oil retention and
the two T holes are not visible after
these additional inspections, the service
information specifies marking the TGB
as not fit for helicopter installation and
returning the TGB to Airbus
Helicopters. If there is no oil retention
and the two T holes are visible after
these additional inspections, the service
information specifies removing any
foreign objects in the TGB oil duct and
inspecting for proper oil flow at the end
of the BTP oil duct cover. If the oil does
not flow properly, this service
information specifies marking the TGB
as not fit for helicopter installation and
returning the TGB to Airbus
Helicopters. If the oil flows properly,
the service information specifies
replacing the TGB control rod bearing
with a new bearing.
This service information also specifies
procedures to close the filter plug cover
with an airworthy O-ring, install the
filter plug, replace a TGB, and perform
a ground run-up. Additionally, this
service information specifies procedures
to perform the inspections on a noninstalled TGB.
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.
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Costs of Compliance
The FAA estimates that this AD
affects 51 helicopters of U.S. Registry.
The FAA estimates that operators may
incur the following costs in order to
comply with this AD. Labor rates are
estimated at $85 per work-hour.
Inspecting the TGB housing recess
takes about 2 work-hours for an
estimated cost of $170 per helicopter
and $8,670 for the U.S. fleet.
Inspecting for and removing any
foreign objects takes a minimal amount
of time for a nominal cost.
Removing any oil retention and reinspecting the TGB takes about 5 workhours for an estimated cost of $425 per
helicopter.
Inspecting for correct oil flow takes
about 1 work-hour for an estimated cost
of $85 per helicopter.
Replacing the TGB control rod bearing
takes about 8 work-hours and parts cost
about $2,000 for an estimated
replacement cost of $2,680 per bearing.
Replacing a TGB takes about 40 workhours and parts cost about $48,600
(overhauled) for an estimated
replacement cost of $52,000 per TGB.
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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,
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(2) Will not affect intrastate aviation
in Alaska, and
(3) Will not have a significant
economic impact, positive or negative,
on a substantial number of small entities
under the criteria of the Regulatory
Flexibility Act.
List of Subjects in 14 CFR Part 39
Air transportation, Aircraft, Aviation
safety, Incorporation by reference,
Safety.
Adoption of the Amendment
Accordingly, under the authority
delegated to me by the Administrator,
the FAA amends 14 CFR part 39 as
follows:
PART 39—AIRWORTHINESS
DIRECTIVES
1. The authority citation for part 39
continues to read as follows:
■
Authority: 49 U.S.C. 106(g), 40113, 44701.
§ 39.13
[Amended]
2. The FAA amends § 39.13 by adding
the following new airworthiness
directive (AD):
■
2020–21–15 Airbus Helicopters:
Amendment 39–21288; Docket No.
FAA–2020–0618; Product Identifier
2019–SW–064–AD.
(a) Applicability
This AD applies to Airbus Helicopters
Model AS–365N2, AS 365 N3, EC 155B,
EC155B1, and SA–365N1 helicopters,
certificated in any category.
(b) Unsafe Condition
This AD defines the unsafe condition as
obstruction of the oil duct of the tail rotor
gearbox (TGB) control bearing. This
condition could result in a lack of lubrication
on the TGB control bearing, which could
affect the correct operation of the TGB, and
subsequent reduced control of the helicopter.
(c) Effective Date
This AD becomes effective December 7,
2020.
(d) 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.
(e) Required Actions
(1) Within 55 hours time-in-service or 5
months, whichever occurs first: (i) Open the
TGB oil filter plug cover (cover) identified as
‘‘b’’ in Detail ‘‘A’’ and Detail ‘‘B’’ in Figure
1 of Airbus Helicopters Emergency Alert
Service Bulletin (EASB) No. 65.00.19 or
Airbus Helicopters EASB No. 65A008, both
Revision 0 and dated July 10, 2019 (EASB
65.00.19 or EASB 65A008), as applicable to
your model helicopter, by removing any
lockwire, opening the cover (b), and
removing the strainer (e) using a screwdriver.
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69133
Remove the TGB oil filter plug (plug)
identified as ‘‘h’’ in Detail ‘‘B’’ in Figure 1
of EASB 65.00.19 or EASB 65A008, as
applicable to your model helicopter, by
removing the sealing compound at the base
of the plug (h), marking the base of the plug
(h) and the TGB housing (c), and removing
and cleaning the plug (h) and the exterior
surface of the TGB housing (c) surrounding
the plug (h) installation area.
(ii) Using an adjustable or fixed head
borescope with a 6 mm or larger diameter
camera probe, inspect for operating oil (oil)
retention and visibility of the two T holes in
the TGB oil housing recess (housing recess)
(towards the rear of the helicopter) identified
as ‘‘g’’ in Section C–C in Figure 2 of EASB
65.00.19 or EASB 65A008, as applicable to
your model helicopter.
(A) If there is any oil retention in the
housing recess (g) and the two T holes are not
completely visible as shown in photo 1, in
the Accomplishment Instructions, paragraph
3.B.2.b., of EASB 65.00.19 or EASB 65A008,
as applicable to your model helicopter,
before further flight, remove the TGB control
rod and inspect for and remove any foreign
objects in the TGB oil duct (oil duct)
identified as ‘‘k’’ in Detail ‘‘D’’ of Figure 2 of
EASB 65.00.19 or EASB 65A008, as
applicable to your model helicopter.
(B) With all of the oil drained from the
housing recess (g), inspect for oil retention
and visibility of the two T holes in the
housing recess (g) as required by paragraph
(e)(1)(ii) of this AD.
(1) If there is any oil retention in the
housing recess (g) and the two T holes are not
completely visible, before further flight,
replace the TGB.
(2) If there is no oil retention in the
housing recess (g) and the two T holes are
completely visible, before further flight:
(i) Inspect for any foreign objects in the oil
duct identified as ‘‘k’’ in Section EE of Figure
3 of EASB 65.00.19 or EASB 65A008, as
applicable to your model helicopter. If there
is any foreign object, before further flight,
remove each foreign object.
(ii) Inspect for oil flow at the end of the oil
duct (k) BTP (q) cover by following the
procedures in the second step through the
sixth step, inclusive, of the Accomplishment
Instructions, paragraph 3.B.3.b., of EASB
65.00.19 or EASB 65A008, as applicable to
your model helicopter.
(iii) If the oil does not flow at the end of
the oil duct (k) BTP (q) cover, before further
flight, replace the TGB.
(iv) If the oil flows at the end of the oil duct
(k) BTP (q) cover, before further flight,
remove from service the TGB control rod
bearing.
(2) As of the effective date of this AD, do
not install a TGB on any helicopter unless,
with the non-installed TGB in a level
position using shims, the requirements of
paragraph (e)(1) of this AD have been
accomplished. Unless already done,
installation of a new TGB control rod bearing
is also required. Accomplishment
Instructions, paragraph 3.B.6., of EASB
65.00.19 and EASB 65A008, as applicable to
your model helicopter, contain information
pertaining to inspecting a non-installed TGB.
A TGB with a log card entry showing it has
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passed the requirements in the
Accomplishment Instructions, paragraph
3.B.6., of EASB 65.00.19 and EASB 65A008,
as applicable to your model helicopter, is
acceptable for compliance with this
paragraph.
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.
(f) Alternative Methods of Compliance
(AMOCs)
(1) The Manager, Rotorcraft Standards
Branch, FAA, may approve AMOCs for this
AD. Send your proposal to: Rao Edupuganti,
Aviation Safety Engineer, Regulations and
Policy Section, Rotorcraft Standards Branch,
FAA, 10101 Hillwood Pkwy., Fort Worth, TX
76177; telephone 817–222–5110; email 9ASW-FTW-AMOC-Requests@faa.gov.
(2) For operations conducted under a 14
CFR part 119 operating certificate or under
14 CFR part 91, subpart K, the FAA suggests
that you notify your principal inspector, or
lacking a principal inspector, the manager of
the local flight standards district office or
certificate holding district office, before
operating any aircraft complying with this
AD through an AMOC.
Issued on October 6, 2020.
Lance T. Gant,
Director, Compliance & Airworthiness
Division, Aircraft Certification Service.
(g) Additional Information
The subject of this AD is addressed in
European Union Aviation Safety Agency
(EASA) AD No. 2019–0165–E, dated July 12,
2019. You may view the EASA AD on the
internet at https://www.regulations.gov in
Docket No. FAA–2020–0618.
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(h) Subject
Joint Aircraft Service Component (JASC)
Code: 62, Tail Rotor Gearbox.
(i) 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 Emergency Alert
Service Bulletin (EASB) No. 65.00.19,
Revision 0, dated July 10, 2019.
(ii) Airbus Helicopters EASB No. 65A008,
Revision 0, dated July 10, 2019.
Note 1 to paragraph (i)(2): Airbus
Helicopters EASB Nos. 65.00.19 and 65A008,
each Revision 0 and dated July 10, 2019, are
co-published as one document along with
Airbus Helicopters EASB Nos. 65.00.09 and
65.06, each Revision 0 and dated July 10,
2019, which are not incorporated by
reference in this AD.
(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
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[FR Doc. 2020–23977 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–2020–0472; Project
Identifier 2018–CE–060–AD; Amendment
39–21295; AD 2020–21–22]
RIN 2120–AA64
Airworthiness Directives; Textron
Aviation Inc. Airplanes
Federal Aviation
Administration (FAA), DOT.
ACTION: Final rule.
AGENCY:
The FAA is adopting a new
airworthiness directive (AD) for all
Textron Aviation Inc. (Textron) Models
180, 180A, 180B, 180C, 180D, 180E,
180F, 180G, 180H, 180J, 180K, 182,
182A, 182B, 182C, 182D, 185, 185A,
185B, 185C, 185D, 185E, A185E, and
A185F airplanes. This AD was
prompted by a report of cracks found in
the tailcone and horizontal stabilizer
attachment structure. This AD requires
inspecting the tailcone and horizontal
stabilizer for corrosion and cracks and
repairing or replacing damaged parts as
necessary. 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
of a certain publication listed in this AD
as of December 7, 2020.
ADDRESSES: For service information
identified in this final rule, contact
Textron Aviation Customer Service,
P.O. Box 7706, Wichita, Kansas 67277,
(316) 517–5800; customercare@
txtav.com; internet: https://txtav.com.
You may view this service information
at the FAA, Airworthiness Products
Section, Operational Safety Branch, 901
Locust, Kansas City, Missouri 64106.
For information on the availability of
this material at the FAA, call (816) 329–
4148. It is also available on the internet
at https://www.regulations.gov by
SUMMARY:
PO 00000
Frm 00016
Fmt 4700
Sfmt 4700
searching for and locating Docket No.
FAA–2020–0472.
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–
0472; 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,
the regulatory evaluation, 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: Tara
Shawn, Aerospace Engineer, Wichita
ACO Branch, 1801 Airport Road, Room
100, Wichita, Kansas 67209; telephone:
(316) 946–4141; fax: (316) 946–4107;
email: tara.shawn@faa.gov or WichitaCOS@faa.gov.
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 Textron Aviation Inc.
(Textron) (type certificate previously
held by Cessna Aircraft Company)
Models 180, 180A, 180B, 180C, 180D,
180E, 180F, 180G, 180H, 180J, 180K,
182, 182A, 182B, 182C, 182D, 185,
185A, 185B, 185C, 185D, 185E, A185E,
and A185F airplanes. The NPRM
published in the Federal Register on
May 14, 2020 (85 FR 28890). The NPRM
was prompted by a report of cracks
found in the tailcone and horizontal
stabilizer attachment structure on a
Textron Model 185 airplane. The FAA
discovered similar conditions on 29
additional Textron 180 and 185 series
airplanes and determined that the
combination of the attachment structure
design and high loads during landing
contribute to the development of cracks
in the tailcone and horizontal stabilizer
attachment structure. The NPRM
proposed to require inspecting the
tailcone and horizontal stabilizer for
corrosion, cracks, and loose or sheared
rivets and repairing or replacing
damaged parts as necessary. The FAA is
issuing this AD to prevent failure of the
horizontal stabilizer to tailcone
attachment, which could lead to tail
separation with consequent loss of
control of the airplane.
Comments
The FAA gave the public the
opportunity to participate in developing
E:\FR\FM\02NOR1.SGM
02NOR1
]]>Agencies
[Federal Register Volume 85, Number 212 (Monday, November 2, 2020)]
[Rules and Regulations]
[Pages 69131-69134]
From the Federal Register Online via the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]
[FR Doc No: 2020-23977]
-----------------------------------------------------------------------
DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION
Federal Aviation Administration
14 CFR Part 39
[Docket No. FAA-2020-0618; Product Identifier 2019-SW-064-AD; Amendment
39-21288; AD 2020-21-15]
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
Airbus Helicopters Model AS-365N2, AS 365 N3, EC 155B, EC155B1, and SA-
365N1 helicopters. This AD requires inspecting the tail rotor gearbox
(TGB) housing recess, and depending on the inspection results,
performing more in-depth inspections and removing certain parts from
service. This AD also prohibits installing a TGB unless it has passed
certain inspections and has a new TGB control rod bearing installed.
This AD was prompted by the discovery of a foreign object obstructing
the oil duct of a TGB control bearing. 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-
0618.
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-
0618; 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
[[Page 69132]]
(EASA) AD, any service information that is incorporated by reference,
any comments received, and other 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: Rao Edupuganti, Aviation Safety
Engineer, Regulations and Policy Section, Rotorcraft Standards Branch,
FAA, 10101 Hillwood Pkwy., Fort Worth, TX 76177; telephone 817-222-
5110; 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 Airbus Helicopters
Model AS-365N2, AS 365 N3, EC 155B, EC155B1, and SA-365N1 helicopters.
The NPRM published in the Federal Register on June 23, 2020 (85 FR
37591). The NPRM proposed to require opening the TGB oil filter plug
cover and removing the TGB oil filter plug, and then borescope
inspecting for oil retention and visibility of the two T holes in the
TGB housing recess. If there is any oil retention and the two T holes
are not completely visible, the NPRM proposed to require removing the
TGB control rod and inspecting for and removing any foreign object in
the TGB oil duct. The NPRM also proposed to require re-inspecting the
TGB housing recess with all of the oil drained. If, during the re-
inspection, there is any oil retention and the two T holes are not
completely visible, the NPRM proposed to require replacing the TGB. If,
during the re-inspection, there is no oil retention and the two T holes
are completely visible, the NPRM proposed to require inspecting for and
removing any foreign object from the TGB oil duct and inspecting the
TGB oil duct for correct oil flow. If the oil does not flow correctly,
the NPRM proposed to require replacing the TGB. If the oil flows
correctly, the NPRM proposed to require removing the TGB control rod
bearing from service. The NPRM also proposed to prohibit the
installation of a TGB unless it passes the proposed inspections. A non-
installed TGB would be inspected in a level position using shims.
The NPRM was prompted by EASA AD No. 2019-0165-E, dated July 12,
2019, issued by EASA, which is the Technical Agent for the Member
States of the European Union, to correct an unsafe condition for Airbus
Helicopters (formerly Eurocopter, Eurocopter France, Aerospatiale, Sud
Aviation) Model AS 365 N2, AS 365 N3, EC 155 B, EC 155 B1, and SA 365
N1 helicopters. EASA advises of a foreign object that was found
obstructing the oil duct of the TGB control bearing during a routine
inspection, causing a lack of lubrication on the bearing. EASA states
this condition, if not detected and corrected, could affect the correct
operation of the TGB and possibly result in reduced control of the
helicopter. Accordingly, the EASA AD requires a one-time inspection of
the TGB housing recess and TGB oil duct housing, and depending on the
findings, applicable investigative and corrective actions. The EASA AD
also prohibits installation of a TGB unless it has passed the specified
inspections.
Comments
The FAA gave the public the opportunity to participate in
developing this final rule. The following presents the comment received
on the NPRM and the FAA's response to the comment.
Request
A commenter asked who will be conducting the TGB inspections and
how often the inspections will take place. A mechanic that meets the
requirements of 14 CFR part 65 subpart D must perform the TGB
inspections, which are required within 55 hours time-in-service or 5
months, whichever occurs first.
FAA's Determination
These helicopters have been approved by EASA and are approved for
operation in the United States. Pursuant to the FAA's bilateral
agreement with the European Union, EASA has notified the FAA of the
unsafe condition described in its AD. The FAA is 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
helicopters of the same type designs and that air safety and the public
interest require adopting the AD requirements as proposed except for
updating the Costs of Compliance section due to an increase in the
number of registered helicopters. These changes are consistent with the
intent that was proposed in the NPRM for addressing the unsafe
condition and do not add any additional burden upon the public than was
already proposed in the NPRM.
Differences Between this AD and the EASA AD
If required to remove a TGB, the EASA AD requires marking and
returning the TGB to Airbus Helicopters, whereas this AD does not
require marking or returning the TGB to Airbus Helicopters.
Related Service Information Under 1 CFR Part 51
The FAA reviewed one document that co-publishes four Airbus
Helicopters Emergency Alert Service Bulletin (EASB) identification
numbers: No. 65.00.09 for non FAA-type certificated military Model
AS565MA, MB, MBe, SA, SB, and UB helicopters; No. 65.00.19 for Model
AS365N1, N2, and N3 helicopters, and non FAA-type certificated military
Model AS365F, Fi, K, and K2 helicopters; No. 65.06 for non FAA-type
certificated military Model SA366GA helicopters; and No. 65A008 for
Model EC155B and B1 helicopters, all Revision 0 and dated July 10,
2019. EASB Nos. 65.00.19 and 65A008 are incorporated by reference in
this AD. EASB Nos. 65.00.09 and 65.06 are not incorporated by reference
in this AD.
This service information specifies procedures, using an endoscope
(borescope), to inspect the TGB housing recess for oil retention and
the two T holes for visibility. If there is oil retention and the two T
holes are not visible, this service information specifies removing the
TGB control rod and inspecting for and removing any foreign objects in
the TGB oil duct, and then repeating the TGB housing recess
inspections. If there is oil retention and the two T holes are not
visible after these additional inspections, the service information
specifies marking the TGB as not fit for helicopter installation and
returning the TGB to Airbus Helicopters. If there is no oil retention
and the two T holes are visible after these additional inspections, the
service information specifies removing any foreign objects in the TGB
oil duct and inspecting for proper oil flow at the end of the BTP oil
duct cover. If the oil does not flow properly, this service information
specifies marking the TGB as not fit for helicopter installation and
returning the TGB to Airbus Helicopters. If the oil flows properly, the
service information specifies replacing the TGB control rod bearing
with a new bearing.
This service information also specifies procedures to close the
filter plug cover with an airworthy O-ring, install the filter plug,
replace a TGB, and perform a ground run-up. Additionally, this service
information specifies procedures to perform the inspections on a non-
installed TGB.
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.
[[Page 69133]]
Costs of Compliance
The FAA estimates that this AD affects 51 helicopters of U.S.
Registry. The FAA estimates that operators may incur the following
costs in order to comply with this AD. Labor rates are estimated at $85
per work-hour.
Inspecting the TGB housing recess takes about 2 work-hours for an
estimated cost of $170 per helicopter and $8,670 for the U.S. fleet.
Inspecting for and removing any foreign objects takes a minimal
amount of time for a nominal cost.
Removing any oil retention and re-inspecting the TGB takes about 5
work-hours for an estimated cost of $425 per helicopter.
Inspecting for correct oil flow takes about 1 work-hour for an
estimated cost of $85 per helicopter.
Replacing the TGB control rod bearing takes about 8 work-hours and
parts cost about $2,000 for an estimated replacement cost of $2,680 per
bearing.
Replacing a TGB takes about 40 work-hours and parts cost about
$48,600 (overhauled) for an estimated replacement cost of $52,000 per
TGB.
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 (AD):
2020-21-15 Airbus Helicopters: Amendment 39-21288; Docket No. FAA-
2020-0618; Product Identifier 2019-SW-064-AD.
(a) Applicability
This AD applies to Airbus Helicopters Model AS-365N2, AS 365 N3,
EC 155B, EC155B1, and SA-365N1 helicopters, certificated in any
category.
(b) Unsafe Condition
This AD defines the unsafe condition as obstruction of the oil
duct of the tail rotor gearbox (TGB) control bearing. This condition
could result in a lack of lubrication on the TGB control bearing,
which could affect the correct operation of the TGB, and subsequent
reduced control of the helicopter.
(c) Effective Date
This AD becomes effective December 7, 2020.
(d) 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.
(e) Required Actions
(1) Within 55 hours time-in-service or 5 months, whichever
occurs first: (i) Open the TGB oil filter plug cover (cover)
identified as ``b'' in Detail ``A'' and Detail ``B'' in Figure 1 of
Airbus Helicopters Emergency Alert Service Bulletin (EASB) No.
65.00.19 or Airbus Helicopters EASB No. 65A008, both Revision 0 and
dated July 10, 2019 (EASB 65.00.19 or EASB 65A008), as applicable to
your model helicopter, by removing any lockwire, opening the cover
(b), and removing the strainer (e) using a screwdriver. Remove the
TGB oil filter plug (plug) identified as ``h'' in Detail ``B'' in
Figure 1 of EASB 65.00.19 or EASB 65A008, as applicable to your
model helicopter, by removing the sealing compound at the base of
the plug (h), marking the base of the plug (h) and the TGB housing
(c), and removing and cleaning the plug (h) and the exterior surface
of the TGB housing (c) surrounding the plug (h) installation area.
(ii) Using an adjustable or fixed head borescope with a 6 mm or
larger diameter camera probe, inspect for operating oil (oil)
retention and visibility of the two T holes in the TGB oil housing
recess (housing recess) (towards the rear of the helicopter)
identified as ``g'' in Section C-C in Figure 2 of EASB 65.00.19 or
EASB 65A008, as applicable to your model helicopter.
(A) If there is any oil retention in the housing recess (g) and
the two T holes are not completely visible as shown in photo 1, in
the Accomplishment Instructions, paragraph 3.B.2.b., of EASB
65.00.19 or EASB 65A008, as applicable to your model helicopter,
before further flight, remove the TGB control rod and inspect for
and remove any foreign objects in the TGB oil duct (oil duct)
identified as ``k'' in Detail ``D'' of Figure 2 of EASB 65.00.19 or
EASB 65A008, as applicable to your model helicopter.
(B) With all of the oil drained from the housing recess (g),
inspect for oil retention and visibility of the two T holes in the
housing recess (g) as required by paragraph (e)(1)(ii) of this AD.
(1) If there is any oil retention in the housing recess (g) and
the two T holes are not completely visible, before further flight,
replace the TGB.
(2) If there is no oil retention in the housing recess (g) and
the two T holes are completely visible, before further flight:
(i) Inspect for any foreign objects in the oil duct identified
as ``k'' in Section EE of Figure 3 of EASB 65.00.19 or EASB 65A008,
as applicable to your model helicopter. If there is any foreign
object, before further flight, remove each foreign object.
(ii) Inspect for oil flow at the end of the oil duct (k) BTP (q)
cover by following the procedures in the second step through the
sixth step, inclusive, of the Accomplishment Instructions, paragraph
3.B.3.b., of EASB 65.00.19 or EASB 65A008, as applicable to your
model helicopter.
(iii) If the oil does not flow at the end of the oil duct (k)
BTP (q) cover, before further flight, replace the TGB.
(iv) If the oil flows at the end of the oil duct (k) BTP (q)
cover, before further flight, remove from service the TGB control
rod bearing.
(2) As of the effective date of this AD, do not install a TGB on
any helicopter unless, with the non-installed TGB in a level
position using shims, the requirements of paragraph (e)(1) of this
AD have been accomplished. Unless already done, installation of a
new TGB control rod bearing is also required. Accomplishment
Instructions, paragraph 3.B.6., of EASB 65.00.19 and EASB 65A008, as
applicable to your model helicopter, contain information pertaining
to inspecting a non-installed TGB. A TGB with a log card entry
showing it has
[[Page 69134]]
passed the requirements in the Accomplishment Instructions,
paragraph 3.B.6., of EASB 65.00.19 and EASB 65A008, as applicable to
your model helicopter, is acceptable for compliance with this
paragraph.
(f) Alternative Methods of Compliance (AMOCs)
(1) The Manager, Rotorcraft Standards Branch, FAA, may approve
AMOCs for this AD. Send your proposal to: Rao Edupuganti, Aviation
Safety Engineer, Regulations and Policy Section, 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.
(g) Additional Information
The subject of this AD is addressed in European Union Aviation
Safety Agency (EASA) AD No. 2019-0165-E, dated July 12, 2019. You
may view the EASA AD on the internet at https://www.regulations.gov
in Docket No. FAA-2020-0618.
(h) Subject
Joint Aircraft Service Component (JASC) Code: 62, Tail Rotor
Gearbox.
(i) 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 Emergency Alert Service Bulletin (EASB)
No. 65.00.19, Revision 0, dated July 10, 2019.
(ii) Airbus Helicopters EASB No. 65A008, Revision 0, dated July
10, 2019.
Note 1 to paragraph (i)(2): Airbus Helicopters EASB Nos.
65.00.19 and 65A008, each Revision 0 and dated July 10, 2019, are
co-published as one document along with Airbus Helicopters EASB Nos.
65.00.09 and 65.06, each Revision 0 and dated July 10, 2019, which
are not incorporated by reference in this AD.
(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 6, 2020.
Lance T. Gant,
Director, Compliance & Airworthiness Division, Aircraft Certification
Service.
[FR Doc. 2020-23977 Filed 10-30-20; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE 4910-13-P
