Airworthiness Directives; Airbus Helicopters, 69488-69492 [2020-24260]
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Federal Register / Vol. 85, No. 213 / Tuesday, November 3, 2020 / Rules and Regulations
(3) For Bell Model 412CF helicopters,
revise Section 2, Normal Procedures, under
both ‘‘BEFORE TAKEOFF’’ and ‘‘IN–FLIGHT
OPERATIONS’’ of the existing RFM for your
helicopter by adding the information in
Figure 1 to paragraph (g)(1) of this AD. Using
a different document with information
identical to that contained in Figure 1 to
paragraph (g)(1) of this AD is acceptable for
compliance with the requirements of this
paragraph.
(4) The actions required by paragraphs
(g)(1) through (3) of this AD may be
performed by the owner/operator (pilot)
holding at least a private pilot certificate and
must be entered into the aircraft records
showing compliance with this AD in
accordance with 14 CFR 43.9(a)(1) through
(4) and 14 CFR 91.417(a)(2)(v). The record
must be maintained as required by 14 CFR
91.417, 121.380, or 135.439.
(h) Alternative Methods of Compliance
(AMOCs)
(1) The Manager, DSCO Branch, FAA, has
the authority to approve AMOCs for this AD,
if requested using the procedures found in 14
CFR 39.19. In accordance with 14 CFR 39.19,
send your request to your principal inspector
or local Flight Standards District Office, as
appropriate. If sending information directly
to the manager of the certification office,
send it to the attention of the person
identified in paragraph (i) of this AD.
Information may be emailed to: 9-ASW-190COS@faa.gov.
(2) Before using any approved AMOC,
notify your appropriate principal inspector,
or lacking a principal inspector, the manager
of the local flight standards district office/
certificate holding district office.
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(i) Related Information
For more information about this AD,
contact Kuethe Harmon, Safety Management
Program Manager, DSCO Branch, Compliance
& Airworthiness Division, FAA, 10101
Hillwood Pkwy., Fort Worth, TX 76177;
telephone 817–222–5198; email
kuethe.harmon@faa.gov.
(j) Material Incorporated by Reference
(1) The Director of the Federal Register
approved the incorporation by reference
(IBR) of the service information listed in this
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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) Section 2, Normal Procedures, of Bell
412 BHT–412–FM–1 Rotorcraft Flight
Manual (RFM), Revision 26, dated August 19,
2020.
(ii) Section 2, Normal Procedures, of Bell
412 BHT–412–FM–2 RFM, Revision 13,
dated August 19, 2020.
(iii) Section 2, Normal Procedures, of Bell
412 BHT–412–FM–3 RFM, Revision 20,
dated August 19, 2020.
(iv) Section 2, Normal Procedures, of Bell
412EP BHT–412–FM–4 RFM, Revision 37,
dated August 19, 2020.
(v) Section 2, Normal Procedures, of Bell
412EPI BHT–412–FM–5 RFM, Revision 9,
dated August 19, 2020.
(vi) Section 2, Normal Procedures, of
Subaru Bell 412EPX BHT–412–FM–6 RFM,
Revision 5, dated August 19, 2020.
(3) For service information identified in
this AD, contact Bell Textron, Inc., P.O. Box
482, Fort Worth, TX 76101; telephone 817–
280–3391; fax 817–280–6466; or at https://
www.bellcustomer.com.
(4) You may view this service information
at the FAA, Office of the Regional Counsel,
Southwest Region, 10101 Hillwood Pkwy.,
Room 6N–321, Fort Worth, TX 76177. For
information on the availability of this
material at the FAA, call 817–222–5110.
(5) You may view this service information
that is incorporated by reference at the
National Archives and Records
Administration (NARA). For information on
the availability of this material at NARA,
email fedreg.legal@nara.gov, or go to: https://
www.archives.gov/federal-register/cfr/ibrlocations.html.
Issued on October 15, 2020.
Gaetano A. Sciortino,
Deputy Director for Strategic Initiatives,
Compliance & Airworthiness Division,
Aircraft Certification Service.
[FR Doc. 2020–24258 Filed 11–2–20; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE 4910–13–P
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DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION
Federal Aviation Administration
14 CFR Part 39
[Docket No. FAA–2020–0462; Product
Identifier 2019–SW–021–AD; Amendment
39–21309; AD 2020–22–13]
RIN 2120–AA64
Airworthiness Directives; Airbus
Helicopters
Federal Aviation
Administration (FAA), Department of
Transportation (DOT).
ACTION: Final rule.
AGENCY:
The FAA is adopting a new
airworthiness directive (AD) for certain
Airbus Helicopters Model AS332C1 and
AS332L1 helicopters. This AD was
prompted by a report that the affected
helicopters use the same ‘‘flight/
ground’’ logic signal, instead of
independent redundant signals. This
AD requires amending the emergency
procedures of the existing rotorcraft
flight manual (RFM) for your helicopter,
a wiring modification of the ‘‘flight/
ground’’ logic signal source of the
attitude and heading reference system
(AHRS) 1, and then removal of the
amendment to the existing RFM for your
helicopter. The FAA is issuing this AD
to address the unsafe condition on these
products.
DATES: This AD is effective December 8,
2020.
The Director of the Federal Register
approved the incorporation by reference
of a certain publication listed in this AD
as of December 8, 2020.
ADDRESSES: For service information
identified in this final rule, contact
Airbus Helicopters, 2701 N Forum
Drive, Grand Prairie, TX 75052; phone:
(972) 641–0000 or (800) 232–0323; fax:
(972) 641–3775; or at https://
SUMMARY:
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Federal Register / Vol. 85, No. 213 / Tuesday, November 3, 2020 / Rules and Regulations
www.airbus.com/helicopters/services/
hnical-support.html. You may view this
service information at the FAA, Office
of the Regional Counsel, Southwest
Region, 10101 Hillwood Pkwy., Room
6N–321, Fort Worth, TX 76177. For
information on the availability of this
material at the FAA, call 817–222–5110.
Examining the AD Docket
You may examine the AD docket on
the internet at https://
www.regulations.gov by searching for
and locating Docket No. FAA–2020–
0462; 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 European Aviation Safety Agency
(now European Union Aviation Safety
Agency) (EASA) AD, any comments
received, and other information. The
street address for Docket Operations is
listed above.
FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT:
George Schwab, Aviation Safety
Engineer, Safety Management Section,
Rotorcraft Standards Branch, FAA,
10101 Hillwood Pkwy., Fort Worth, TX
76177; phone: 817–222–5110; email:
george.schwab@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 certain Airbus Helicopters
Model AS332C1 and AS332L1
helicopters. The NPRM published in the
Federal Register on June 4, 2020 (85 FR
34375). The NPRM was prompted by a
report that the affected helicopters use
the same ‘‘flight/ground’’ logic signal
instead of independent redundant
signals. The NPRM proposed to require
amending the emergency procedures of
the existing RFM for your helicopter, a
wiring modification of the ‘‘flight/
ground’’ logic signal source of the AHRS
1, and then removal of the amendment
to the existing RFM for your helicopter.
The FAA is issuing this AD to address
certain helicopters that use the same
‘‘flight/ground’’ logic signal, instead of
independent redundant signals. If both
AHRS incorrectly receive ‘‘ground’’
status in flight, as a result for instance
of a single failure, this will generate
consistent erroneous computation of the
attitudes and vertical speed during
helicopter maneuvers with consequent
incorrect flight data indications to the
flight crew on both primary displays.
Erroneous flight information could lead
to increased workload for the flight crew
when the upper modes of the automatic
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flight control system are not engaged,
possibly resulting in reduced control of
the helicopter during high speed
maneuvers in instrumental
meteorological conditions (IMC).
EASA, which is the Technical Agent
for the Member States of the European
Union, has issued EASA AD 2019–0021,
dated February 1, 2019; corrected
February 4, 2019 (EASA AD 2019–0021)
(referred to after this as the Mandatory
Continuing Airworthiness Information,
or ‘‘the MCAI’’), to correct an unsafe
condition for certain Airbus Helicopters
Model AS332C1 and AS332L1
helicopters. EASA advises that the
AHRS 1 and AHRS 2 installed on
AS332C1e and AS332L1e helicopters
use the same ‘‘flight/ground’’ logic
signal, instead of independent
redundant signals, as required by the
original design specification. If both
AHRS incorrectly receive ‘‘ground’’
status in flight, as a result for instance
of a single failure, this will generate
consistent erroneous computation of the
attitudes and vertical speed during
helicopter maneuvers with consequent
incorrect flight data indications to the
flight crew on both primary displays.
EASA AD 2019–0021 states that this
condition, if not corrected, could lead to
increased workload for the flight crew
when the upper modes of the automatic
flight control system are not engaged,
possibly resulting in reduced control of
the helicopter during high speed
maneuvers in IMC.
EASA further advises that Airbus
Helicopters has issued rush revisions to
the RFM, and developed a modification
of the wiring harness, ensuring
independent sources of the ‘‘flight/
ground’’ logic signal for both AHRS.
EASA AD 2019–0021 requires amending
the emergency procedures of the
applicable RFM, doing the modification
of the wiring harness, and then
removing the amendment to the RFM.
You may examine the MCAI in the
AD docket on the internet at https://
www.regulations.gov by searching for
and locating Docket No. FAA–2020–
0462.
Comments
The FAA gave the public the
opportunity to participate in developing
this final rule. The FAA received no
comments on the NPRM or on the
determination of the cost to the public.
Conclusion
The FAA reviewed the relevant data
and determined that air safety and the
public interest require adopting this
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69489
final rule as proposed, except for minor
editorial changes.
The FAA has determined that these
minor changes:
• Are consistent with the intent that
was proposed in the NPRM for
addressing the unsafe condition; and
• Do not add any additional burden
upon the public than was already
proposed in the NPRM.
Related Service Information Under 1
CFR Part 51
Airbus Helicopters has issued Alert
Service Bulletin No. AS332–34.00.60,
Revision 1, dated March 29, 2019. This
service information describes
procedures for a wiring modification of
the ‘‘flight/ground’’ logic signal source
of the AHRS 1, which changes the
‘‘flight/ground’’ logic signal source to
independent redundant signals.
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 issued Alert
Service Bulletin No. AS332–34.00.60,
Revision 0, dated December 6, 2018.
The service information describes
procedures for a wiring modification of
the ‘‘flight/ground’’ logic signal source
of the AHRS 1, which changes the
‘‘flight/ground’’ logic signal source to
independent redundant signals. Airbus
Service Bulletin No. AS332–34.00.60,
Revision 1, dated March 29, 2019,
clarifies the procedures for the postinstallation test in Alert Service Bulletin
No. AS332–34.00.60, Revision 0, dated
December 6, 2018.
Differences Between This AD and the
MCAI or Service Information
EASA AD 2019–0021 specifies to do
the modification within 6 months. This
AD requires the modification be done
within 100 hours time-in-service or
before intentional flight into IMC,
whichever occurs first. The FAA has
determined this compliance time
represents the maximum interval of
time allowable for the affected
helicopters to continue to safely operate
before the modification is done.
Costs of Compliance
The FAA estimates that this AD
affects 8 helicopters of U.S. registry. The
FAA estimates the following costs to
comply with this AD:
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Federal Register / Vol. 85, No. 213 / Tuesday, November 3, 2020 / Rules and Regulations
ESTIMATED COSTS FOR REQUIRED ACTIONS
Labor cost
Parts cost
Cost per
product
Cost on U.S.
operators
7 work-hours × $85 per hour = $595 ..........................................................................................
$40
$635
$5,080
Authority for This Rulemaking
Title 49 of the United States Code
specifies the FAA’s authority to issue
rules on aviation safety. Subtitle I,
section 106, describes the authority of
the FAA Administrator. Subtitle VII:
Aviation Programs, describes in more
detail the scope of the Agency’s
authority.
The FAA is issuing this rulemaking
under the authority described in
Subtitle VII, Part A, Subpart III, Section
44701: General requirements. Under
that section, Congress charges the FAA
with promoting safe flight of civil
aircraft in air commerce by prescribing
regulations for practices, methods, and
procedures the Administrator finds
necessary for safety in air commerce.
This regulation is within the scope of
that authority because it addresses an
unsafe condition that is likely to exist or
develop on products identified in this
rulemaking action.
Regulatory Findings
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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,
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on a substantial number of small entities
under the criteria of the Regulatory
Flexibility Act.
Airbus Helicopters modification 0728576
embodied in production.
List of Subjects in 14 CFR Part 39
Joint Aircraft Service Component (JASC)
Code 3420, Attitude and direction data
system.
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:
■
2020–22–13 Airbus Helicopters:
Amendment 39–21309; Docket No.
FAA–2020–0462; Product Identifier
2019–SW–021–AD.
This airworthiness directive (AD) is
effective December 8, 2020.
(b) Affected ADs
(c) Applicability
This AD applies to Airbus Helicopters
Model AS332C1 and AS332L1 helicopters,
certificated in any category, all manufacturer
serial numbers, equipped with an Advanced
Helicopter Cockpit & Avionics System
(AHCAS), except helicopters that have
Fmt 4700
This AD was prompted by a report that the
affected helicopters use the same ‘‘flight/
ground’’ logic signal, instead of independent
redundant signals. The FAA is issuing this
AD to address certain helicopters that use the
same ‘‘flight/ground’’ logic signal, instead of
independent redundant signals. If both
attitude and heading reference systems
(AHRS) incorrectly receive ‘‘ground’’ status
in flight, as a result for instance of a single
failure, this will generate consistent
erroneous computation of the attitudes and
vertical speed during helicopter maneuvers
with consequent incorrect flight data
indications to the flight crew on both primary
displays. Erroneous flight information could
lead to increased workload for the flight crew
when the upper modes of the automatic flight
control system are not engaged, possibly
resulting in reduced control of the helicopter
during high speed maneuvers in instrumental
meteorological conditions (IMC).
Comply with this AD within the
compliance times specified, unless already
done.
(g) Required Actions
None.
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(e) Reason
(f) Compliance
(a) Effective Date
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(d) Subject
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(1) Within 30 days after the effective date
of this AD: Amend the emergency procedures
of the existing rotorcraft flight manual (RFM)
for your helicopter by inserting the
supplemental text specified in figure 1 to
paragraph (g)(1) of this AD, immediately
following paragraph 9 GROUND/FLIGHT
LOGIC FAULT.
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Federal Register / Vol. 85, No. 213 / Tuesday, November 3, 2020 / Rules and Regulations
(h) Special Flight Permit
Special flight permits may be issued in
accordance with 14 CFR 21.197 and 21.199
to operate the helicopter to a location where
the helicopter can be modified (if the
operator elects to do so), provided the
helicopter is operated under visual flight
rules only.
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(i) Credit for Previous Actions
This paragraph provides credit for the
actions specified in paragraph (g) of this AD,
if those actions were performed before the
effective date of this AD using Airbus
Helicopters Alert Service Bulletin No.
AS332–34.00.60, Revision 0, dated December
6, 2018.
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(j) Alternative Methods of Compliance
(AMOCs)
(1) The Manager, Rotorcraft Standards
Branch, FAA, may approve AMOCs for this
AD. Send your proposal to: George Schwab,
Aviation Safety Engineer, Safety Management
Section, Rotorcraft Standards Branch, FAA,
10101 Hillwood Pkwy., Fort Worth, TX
76177; phone: 817–222–5110; email: 9-ASWFTW-AMOC-Requests@faa.gov.
(2) For operations conducted under a 14
CFR part 119 operating certificate or under
14 CFR part 91, subpart K, notify your
principal inspector or lacking a principal
inspector, the manager of the local flight
standards district office or certificate holding
district office, before operating any aircraft
complying with this AD through an AMOC.
(k) Related Information
(1) The subject of this AD is addressed in
European Aviation Safety Agency (now
European Union Aviation Safety Agency)
(EASA) AD 2019–0021, dated February 1,
2019; corrected February 4, 2019. This EASA
AD may be found in the AD docket on the
internet at https://www.regulations.gov by
searching for and locating Docket No. FAA–
2020–0462.
(2) For more information about this AD,
contact George Schwab, Aviation Safety
Engineer, Safety Management Section,
Rotorcraft Standards Branch, FAA, 10101
Hillwood Pkwy., Fort Worth, TX 76177;
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phone: 817–222–5110; email:
george.schwab@faa.gov.
(3) Service information identified in this
AD that is not incorporated by reference is
available at the addresses specified in
paragraphs (l)(3) and (4) of this AD.
(l) 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.
(i) Airbus Helicopters Alert Service
Bulletin No. AS332–34.00.60, Revision 1,
dated March 29, 2019.
(ii) [Reserved]
(3) For service information identified in
this AD, contact Airbus Helicopters, 2701 N
Forum Drive, Grand Prairie, TX 75052;
phone: (972) 641–0000 or (800) 232–0323;
fax: (972) 641–3775; or at https://
www.airbus.com/helicopters/services/
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.
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(2) Within 100 hours time-in-service or
before intentional flight into IMC, whichever
occurs first after the effective date of this AD,
do the wiring modification of the ‘‘flight/
ground’’ logic signal source of the AHRS 1 in
accordance with the Accomplishment
Instructions of Airbus Helicopters Alert
Service Bulletin No. AS332–34.00.60,
Revision 1, dated March 29, 2019. After
completion of the wiring modification, the
RFM amendment required by paragraph
(g)(1) of this AD must be removed from the
existing RFM for your helicopter.
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Federal Register / Vol. 85, No. 213 / Tuesday, November 3, 2020 / Rules and Regulations
(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 19, 2020.
Lance T. Gant,
Director, Compliance & Airworthiness
Division, Aircraft Certification Service.
[FR Doc. 2020–24260 Filed 11–2–20; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE 4910–13–P
DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION
Federal Aviation Administration
14 CFR Part 39
[Docket No. FAA–2020–0744; Project
Identifier 2019–CE–056–AD; Amendment
39–21285; AD 2020–21–12]
RIN 2120–AA64
Airworthiness Directives; Pilatus
Aircraft Ltd. Airplanes
Federal Aviation
Administration (FAA), DOT.
ACTION: Final rule.
AGENCY:
The FAA is adopting a new
airworthiness directive (AD) for certain
Pilatus Aircraft Ltd Model PC–24
airplanes. This AD was prompted by
mandatory continuing airworthiness
information (MCAI) issued by the
aviation authority of another country to
identify and correct an unsafe condition
on an aviation product. The MCAI
describes the unsafe condition as the
vinyl grommets on the upper panel
assembly on the left-hand (LH) and
right-hand (RH) emergency exits
becoming rigid after exposure to low
temperatures, which could result in
failure of the emergency exits to open
during an evacuation. This AD requires
replacing the grommets. The FAA is
issuing this AD to address the unsafe
condition on these products.
DATES: This AD is effective December 8,
2020.
The Director of the Federal Register
approved the incorporation by reference
of a certain publication listed in this AD
as of December 8, 2020.
ADDRESSES: For service information
identified in this final rule, contact
Pilatus Aircraft Ltd., Customer
Technical Support (MCC), P.O. Box 992,
CH–6371 Stans, Switzerland; telephone:
+41 (0)41 619 67 74; fax: +41 (0)41 619
67 73; email: Techsupport@pilatusaircraft.com; internet: https://
www.pilatus-aircraft.com/en. You may
view this service information at the
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SUMMARY:
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FAA, Airworthiness Products Section,
Operational Safety Branch, 901 Locust,
Kansas City, MO 64106. For information
on the availability of this material at the
FAA, call 816–329–4148. It is also
available on the internet at https://
www.regulations.gov by searching for
and locating Docket No. FAA–2020–
0744.
parts with serviceable parts, as defined in
this AD, and prohibits (re-)installation of
affected parts.
Examining the AD Docket
Comments
The FAA gave the public the
opportunity to participate in developing
this final rule. The FAA received no
comments on the NPRM or on the
determination of the cost to the public.
You may examine the AD docket on
the internet at https://
www.regulations.gov by searching for
and locating Docket No. FAA–2020–
0744 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 MCAI, 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:
Doug Rudolph, Aerospace Engineer,
FAA, General Aviation & Rotorcraft
Section, International Validation
Branch, 901 Locust, Room 301, Kansas
City, Missouri 64106; telephone: (816)
329–4059; fax: (816) 329–4090; email:
doug.rudolph@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 Pilatus Aircraft Ltd Model PC–
24 airplanes with an emergency exit
grommet part number (P/N)
944.87.32.001 installed. The NPRM
published in the Federal Register on
August 7, 2020 (85 FR 47919). The
NPRM proposed to correct an unsafe
condition of the specified products and
was based on MCAI originated by the
European Union Aviation Safety Agency
(EASA), which is the Technical Agent
for the Member States of the European
Union. EASA issued AD No. 2019–0293,
dated December 4, 2019 (referred to
after this as ‘‘the MCAI’’), which states:
After exposure to low temperatures, the
vinyl grommets which hold the upper panel
assembly in position on the left-hand and
right-hand emergency exits were found to
become rigid.
This condition, if not corrected, could
result in failure of the emergency exits to
open during an evacuation, possibly resulting
in injury to occupants.
To address this potential unsafe condition,
Pilatus issued the [service bulletin] SB to
provide modification instructions.
For the reason described above, this
[EASA] AD requires replacement of affected
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You may obtain further information
by examining the MCAI in the AD
docket on the internet at https://
www.regulations.gov by searching for
and locating Docket No. FAA–2020–
0744.
Conclusion
The FAA reviewed the relevant data
and determined that air safety and the
public interest require adopting this
final rule as proposed.
Related Service Information Under 1
CFR Part 51
The FAA reviewed Pilatus PC–24
Service Bulletin No. 25–005, dated
August 12, 2019. The service
information contains procedures for
replacing the grommets that are used to
hold the upper panel assembly in
position on the LH and RH emergency
exits with different part-numbered
grommets. 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.
Costs of Compliance
The FAA estimates that this AD
affects 39 products of U.S. registry. The
FAA also estimates that it will take 1.0
work-hour per product to comply with
the requirements of this AD. The
average labor rate is $85 per work-hour.
Required parts will cost about $30 per
product.
Based on these figures, the FAA
estimates the cost of the AD on U.S.
operators to be $4,485, or $115 per
product.
According to the manufacturer, some
of the costs of this AD may be covered
under warranty, thereby reducing the
cost impact on affected individuals. The
FAA does not control warranty coverage
for affected individuals. As a result, the
FAA has included all costs in this cost
estimate.
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
E:\FR\FM\03NOR1.SGM
03NOR1
]]>Agencies
[Federal Register Volume 85, Number 213 (Tuesday, November 3, 2020)]
[Rules and Regulations]
[Pages 69488-69492]
From the Federal Register Online via the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]
[FR Doc No: 2020-24260]
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DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION
Federal Aviation Administration
14 CFR Part 39
[Docket No. FAA-2020-0462; Product Identifier 2019-SW-021-AD; Amendment
39-21309; AD 2020-22-13]
RIN 2120-AA64
Airworthiness Directives; Airbus Helicopters
AGENCY: Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), Department of
Transportation (DOT).
ACTION: Final rule.
-----------------------------------------------------------------------
SUMMARY: The FAA is adopting a new airworthiness directive (AD) for
certain Airbus Helicopters Model AS332C1 and AS332L1 helicopters. This
AD was prompted by a report that the affected helicopters use the same
``flight/ground'' logic signal, instead of independent redundant
signals. This AD requires amending the emergency procedures of the
existing rotorcraft flight manual (RFM) for your helicopter, a wiring
modification of the ``flight/ground'' logic signal source of the
attitude and heading reference system (AHRS) 1, and then removal of the
amendment to the existing RFM for your helicopter. The FAA is issuing
this AD to address the unsafe condition on these products.
DATES: This AD is effective December 8, 2020.
The Director of the Federal Register approved the incorporation by
reference of a certain publication listed in this AD as of December 8,
2020.
ADDRESSES: For service information identified in this final rule,
contact Airbus Helicopters, 2701 N Forum Drive, Grand Prairie, TX
75052; phone: (972) 641-0000 or (800) 232-0323; fax: (972) 641-3775; or
at https://
[[Page 69489]]
www.airbus.com/helicopters/services/hnical-support.html. You may view
this service information at the FAA, Office of the Regional Counsel,
Southwest Region, 10101 Hillwood Pkwy., Room 6N-321, Fort Worth, TX
76177. For information on the availability of this material at the FAA,
call 817-222-5110.
Examining the AD Docket
You may examine the AD docket on the internet at https://www.regulations.gov by searching for and locating Docket No. FAA-2020-
0462; 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 European Aviation Safety Agency (now European
Union Aviation Safety Agency) (EASA) AD, any comments received, and
other information. The street address for Docket Operations is listed
above.
FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: George Schwab, Aviation Safety
Engineer, Safety Management Section, Rotorcraft Standards Branch, FAA,
10101 Hillwood Pkwy., Fort Worth, TX 76177; phone: 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 certain Airbus
Helicopters Model AS332C1 and AS332L1 helicopters. The NPRM published
in the Federal Register on June 4, 2020 (85 FR 34375). The NPRM was
prompted by a report that the affected helicopters use the same
``flight/ground'' logic signal instead of independent redundant
signals. The NPRM proposed to require amending the emergency procedures
of the existing RFM for your helicopter, a wiring modification of the
``flight/ground'' logic signal source of the AHRS 1, and then removal
of the amendment to the existing RFM for your helicopter. The FAA is
issuing this AD to address certain helicopters that use the same
``flight/ground'' logic signal, instead of independent redundant
signals. If both AHRS incorrectly receive ``ground'' status in flight,
as a result for instance of a single failure, this will generate
consistent erroneous computation of the attitudes and vertical speed
during helicopter maneuvers with consequent incorrect flight data
indications to the flight crew on both primary displays. Erroneous
flight information could lead to increased workload for the flight crew
when the upper modes of the automatic flight control system are not
engaged, possibly resulting in reduced control of the helicopter during
high speed maneuvers in instrumental meteorological conditions (IMC).
EASA, which is the Technical Agent for the Member States of the
European Union, has issued EASA AD 2019-0021, dated February 1, 2019;
corrected February 4, 2019 (EASA AD 2019-0021) (referred to after this
as the Mandatory Continuing Airworthiness Information, or ``the
MCAI''), to correct an unsafe condition for certain Airbus Helicopters
Model AS332C1 and AS332L1 helicopters. EASA advises that the AHRS 1 and
AHRS 2 installed on AS332C1e and AS332L1e helicopters use the same
``flight/ground'' logic signal, instead of independent redundant
signals, as required by the original design specification. If both AHRS
incorrectly receive ``ground'' status in flight, as a result for
instance of a single failure, this will generate consistent erroneous
computation of the attitudes and vertical speed during helicopter
maneuvers with consequent incorrect flight data indications to the
flight crew on both primary displays. EASA AD 2019-0021 states that
this condition, if not corrected, could lead to increased workload for
the flight crew when the upper modes of the automatic flight control
system are not engaged, possibly resulting in reduced control of the
helicopter during high speed maneuvers in IMC.
EASA further advises that Airbus Helicopters has issued rush
revisions to the RFM, and developed a modification of the wiring
harness, ensuring independent sources of the ``flight/ground'' logic
signal for both AHRS. EASA AD 2019-0021 requires amending the emergency
procedures of the applicable RFM, doing the modification of the wiring
harness, and then removing the amendment to the RFM.
You may examine the MCAI in the AD docket on the internet at
https://www.regulations.gov by searching for and locating Docket No.
FAA-2020-0462.
Comments
The FAA gave the public the opportunity to participate in
developing this final rule. The FAA received no comments on the NPRM or
on the determination of the cost to the public.
Conclusion
The FAA reviewed the relevant data and determined that air safety
and the public interest require adopting this final rule as proposed,
except for minor editorial changes.
The FAA has determined that these minor changes:
Are consistent with the intent that was proposed in the
NPRM for addressing the unsafe condition; and
Do not add any additional burden upon the public than was
already proposed in the NPRM.
Related Service Information Under 1 CFR Part 51
Airbus Helicopters has issued Alert Service Bulletin No. AS332-
34.00.60, Revision 1, dated March 29, 2019. This service information
describes procedures for a wiring modification of the ``flight/ground''
logic signal source of the AHRS 1, which changes the ``flight/ground''
logic signal source to independent redundant signals.
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 issued Alert Service Bulletin No. AS332-
34.00.60, Revision 0, dated December 6, 2018. The service information
describes procedures for a wiring modification of the ``flight/ground''
logic signal source of the AHRS 1, which changes the ``flight/ground''
logic signal source to independent redundant signals. Airbus Service
Bulletin No. AS332-34.00.60, Revision 1, dated March 29, 2019,
clarifies the procedures for the post-installation test in Alert
Service Bulletin No. AS332-34.00.60, Revision 0, dated December 6,
2018.
Differences Between This AD and the MCAI or Service Information
EASA AD 2019-0021 specifies to do the modification within 6 months.
This AD requires the modification be done within 100 hours time-in-
service or before intentional flight into IMC, whichever occurs first.
The FAA has determined this compliance time represents the maximum
interval of time allowable for the affected helicopters to continue to
safely operate before the modification is done.
Costs of Compliance
The FAA estimates that this AD affects 8 helicopters of U.S.
registry. The FAA estimates the following costs to comply with this AD:
[[Page 69490]]
Estimated Costs for Required Actions
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Cost per Cost on U.S.
Labor cost Parts cost product operators
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
7 work-hours x $85 per hour = $595........................... $40 $635 $5,080
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Authority for This Rulemaking
Title 49 of the United States Code specifies the FAA's authority to
issue rules on aviation safety. Subtitle I, section 106, describes the
authority of the FAA Administrator. Subtitle VII: Aviation Programs,
describes in more detail the scope of the Agency's authority.
The FAA is issuing this rulemaking under the authority described in
Subtitle VII, Part A, Subpart III, Section 44701: General requirements.
Under that section, Congress charges the FAA with promoting safe flight
of civil aircraft in air commerce by prescribing regulations for
practices, methods, and procedures the Administrator finds necessary
for safety in air commerce. This regulation is within the scope of that
authority because it addresses an unsafe condition that is likely to
exist or develop on products identified in this rulemaking action.
Regulatory Findings
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:
2020-22-13 Airbus Helicopters: Amendment 39-21309; Docket No. FAA-
2020-0462; Product Identifier 2019-SW-021-AD.
(a) Effective Date
This airworthiness directive (AD) is effective December 8, 2020.
(b) Affected ADs
None.
(c) Applicability
This AD applies to Airbus Helicopters Model AS332C1 and AS332L1
helicopters, certificated in any category, all manufacturer serial
numbers, equipped with an Advanced Helicopter Cockpit & Avionics
System (AHCAS), except helicopters that have Airbus Helicopters
modification 0728576 embodied in production.
(d) Subject
Joint Aircraft Service Component (JASC) Code 3420, Attitude and
direction data system.
(e) Reason
This AD was prompted by a report that the affected helicopters
use the same ``flight/ground'' logic signal, instead of independent
redundant signals. The FAA is issuing this AD to address certain
helicopters that use the same ``flight/ground'' logic signal,
instead of independent redundant signals. If both attitude and
heading reference systems (AHRS) incorrectly receive ``ground''
status in flight, as a result for instance of a single failure, this
will generate consistent erroneous computation of the attitudes and
vertical speed during helicopter maneuvers with consequent incorrect
flight data indications to the flight crew on both primary displays.
Erroneous flight information could lead to increased workload for
the flight crew when the upper modes of the automatic flight control
system are not engaged, possibly resulting in reduced control of the
helicopter during high speed maneuvers in instrumental
meteorological conditions (IMC).
(f) Compliance
Comply with this AD within the compliance times specified,
unless already done.
(g) Required Actions
(1) Within 30 days after the effective date of this AD: Amend
the emergency procedures of the existing rotorcraft flight manual
(RFM) for your helicopter by inserting the supplemental text
specified in figure 1 to paragraph (g)(1) of this AD, immediately
following paragraph 9 GROUND/FLIGHT LOGIC FAULT.
[[Page 69491]]
[GRAPHIC] [TIFF OMITTED] TR03NO20.035
(2) Within 100 hours time-in-service or before intentional
flight into IMC, whichever occurs first after the effective date of
this AD, do the wiring modification of the ``flight/ground'' logic
signal source of the AHRS 1 in accordance with the Accomplishment
Instructions of Airbus Helicopters Alert Service Bulletin No. AS332-
34.00.60, Revision 1, dated March 29, 2019. After completion of the
wiring modification, the RFM amendment required by paragraph (g)(1)
of this AD must be removed from the existing RFM for your
helicopter.
(h) Special Flight Permit
Special flight permits may be issued in accordance with 14 CFR
21.197 and 21.199 to operate the helicopter to a location where the
helicopter can be modified (if the operator elects to do so),
provided the helicopter is operated under visual flight rules only.
(i) Credit for Previous Actions
This paragraph provides credit for the actions specified in
paragraph (g) of this AD, if those actions were performed before the
effective date of this AD using Airbus Helicopters Alert Service
Bulletin No. AS332-34.00.60, Revision 0, dated December 6, 2018.
(j) Alternative Methods of Compliance (AMOCs)
(1) The Manager, Rotorcraft Standards Branch, FAA, may approve
AMOCs for this AD. Send your proposal to: George Schwab, Aviation
Safety Engineer, Safety Management Section, Rotorcraft Standards
Branch, FAA, 10101 Hillwood Pkwy., Fort Worth, TX 76177; phone: 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, notify your
principal inspector or lacking a principal inspector, the manager of
the local flight standards district office or certificate holding
district office, before operating any aircraft complying with this
AD through an AMOC.
(k) Related Information
(1) The subject of this AD is addressed in European Aviation
Safety Agency (now European Union Aviation Safety Agency) (EASA) AD
2019-0021, dated February 1, 2019; corrected February 4, 2019. This
EASA AD may be found in the AD docket on the internet at https://www.regulations.gov by searching for and locating Docket No. FAA-
2020-0462.
(2) For more information about this AD, contact George Schwab,
Aviation Safety Engineer, Safety Management Section, Rotorcraft
Standards Branch, FAA, 10101 Hillwood Pkwy., Fort Worth, TX 76177;
phone: 817-222-5110; email: [email protected].
(3) Service information identified in this AD that is not
incorporated by reference is available at the addresses specified in
paragraphs (l)(3) and (4) of this AD.
(l) 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.
(i) Airbus Helicopters Alert Service Bulletin No. AS332-
34.00.60, Revision 1, dated March 29, 2019.
(ii) [Reserved]
(3) For service information identified in this AD, contact
Airbus Helicopters, 2701 N Forum Drive, Grand Prairie, TX 75052;
phone: (972) 641-0000 or (800) 232-0323; fax: (972) 641-3775; or at
https://www.airbus.com/helicopters/services/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.
[[Page 69492]]
(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 19, 2020.
Lance T. Gant,
Director, Compliance & Airworthiness Division, Aircraft Certification
Service.
[FR Doc. 2020-24260 Filed 11-2-20; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE 4910-13-P
