Airworthiness Directives; Safran Helicopter Engines, S.A. (Type Certificate Previously Held by Turbomeca, S.A.) Turboshaft Engines, 76492-76495 [2020-26337]

Download as PDF 76492 Federal Register / Vol. 85, No. 230 / Monday, November 30, 2020 / Proposed Rules (3) Will not have a significant economic impact, positive or negative, on a substantial number of small entities under the criteria of the Regulatory Flexibility Act. List of Subjects in 14 CFR Part 39 Air transportation, Aircraft, Aviation safety, Incorporation by reference, Safety. The Proposed Amendment Accordingly, under the authority delegated to me by the Administrator, the FAA proposes to amend 14 CFR part 39 as follows: PART 39—AIRWORTHINESS DIRECTIVES 1. The authority citation for part 39 continues to read as follows: ■ Authority: 49 U.S.C. 106(g), 40113, 44701. § 39.13 [Amended] 2. The FAA amends § 39.13 by adding the following new airworthiness directive: ■ Airbus Helicopters Deutschland GmbH: Docket No. FAA–2020–1037; Project Identifier 2019–SW–077–AD. (a) Applicability This airworthiness directive (AD) applies to Airbus Helicopters Deutschland GmbH Model EC135P1, EC135P2, EC135P2+, EC135P3, EC135T1, EC135T2, EC135T2+, and EC135T3 helicopters, certificated in any category, with a Titanium (Ti) bolt part number L535M2001203 marked with manufacturer monogram ‘‘D’’ or with an illegible manufacturer monogram installed on the forward tail rotor drive shaft. Note 1 to paragraph (a): Helicopters with an EC135P3H designation are Model EC135P3 helicopters. Helicopters with an EC135T3H designation are Model EC135T3 helicopters. (b) Unsafe Condition This AD defines the unsafe condition as failure of an affected Ti-bolt installed in a critical location, possibly resulting in reduced control of the helicopter. TKELLEY on DSKBCP9HB2PROD with PROPOSALS (h) Subject Joint Aircraft System Component (JASC) Codes: 1430, Fasteners; and 6510, Tail Rotor Drive Shaft. Issued on November 20, 2020. Lance T. Gant, Director, Compliance & Airworthiness Division, Aircraft Certification Service. [FR Doc. 2020–26253 Filed 11–27–20; 8:45 am] BILLING CODE 4910–13–P DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION [Docket No. FAA–2020–1038; Project Identifier MCAI–2020–00569–E] RIN 2120–AA64 (e) Required Actions (1) Within 50 hours time-in-service or 3 months, whichever occurs first, remove any Ti-bolt identified in paragraph (a) of this AD, located on the forward tail rotor drive shaft, from service. (2) As of the effective date of this AD, do not install a Ti-bolt identified in paragraph Jkt 253001 (g) Additional Information (1) Airbus Helicopters Alert Service Bulletin (ASB) No. EC135–00A–001 and ASB No. EC135H–00A–001, each Revision 1 and dated September 2, 2019, which are not incorporated by reference, contain additional information about the subject of this AD. For service information identified in this AD, contact Airbus Helicopters, 2701 N. Forum Drive, Grand Prairie, TX 75052; telephone 972–641–0000 or 800–232–0323; fax 972– 641–3775; or at https://www.airbus.com/ helicopters/services/technical-support.html. You may view the referenced service information at the FAA, Office of the Regional Counsel, Southwest Region, 10101 Hillwood Pkwy., Room 6N–321, Fort Worth, TX 76177. (2) The subject of this AD is addressed in European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) No. 2019–0199, dated August 16, 2019. You may view the EASA AD on the internet at https://www.regulations.gov in the AD Docket. 14 CFR Part 39 (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. 17:33 Nov 27, 2020 (f) Alternative Methods of Compliance (AMOCs): The Manager, Rotorcraft Standards Branch, FAA, may approve AMOCs for this AD. Send your proposal to: Manager, Rotorcraft Standards Branch, FAA, 10101 Hillwood Pkwy., Fort Worth, TX 76177; telephone 817–222–5110; email 9-ASW-FTW-AMOCRequests@faa.gov. Federal Aviation Administration (c) Comments Due Date The FAA must receive comments by January 14, 2021. VerDate Sep<11>2014 (a) of this AD on the forward tail rotor drive shaft of any helicopter. Airworthiness Directives; Safran Helicopter Engines, S.A. (Type Certificate Previously Held by Turbomeca, S.A.) Turboshaft Engines Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), DOT. ACTION: Notice of proposed rulemaking (NPRM). AGENCY: The FAA proposes to adopt a new airworthiness directive (AD) for all Safran Helicopter Engines, S.A. (Safran) Arriel 2D and Arriel 2E model SUMMARY: PO 00000 Frm 00004 Fmt 4702 Sfmt 4702 turboshaft engines. This proposed AD was prompted by the manufacturer revising the maintenance and overhaul manuals to introduce new or more restrictive airworthiness limitations and maintenance tasks. This proposed AD would require the replacement of certain critical parts before reaching their published in-service life limits, performing scheduled maintenance tasks before reaching their published periodicity, and performing unscheduled maintenance tasks when the engine meets certain conditions. As a terminating action, this proposed AD would require operators to revise the airworthiness limitation section (ALS) of their existing approved aircraft maintenance program (AMP) by incorporating the revised airworthiness limitations and maintenance tasks. The FAA is proposing this AD to address the unsafe condition on these products. DATES: The FAA must receive comments on this proposed AD by January 14, 2021. You may send comments, using the procedures found in 14 CFR 11.43 and 11.45, by any of the following methods: • Federal eRulemaking Portal: Go to https://www.regulations.gov. Follow the instructions for submitting comments. • Fax: (202) 493–2251. • Mail: U.S. Department of Transportation, Docket Operations, M– 30, West Building Ground Floor, Room W12 140, 1200 New Jersey Avenue SE, Washington, DC 20590. • Hand Delivery: Deliver to Mail address above between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m., Monday through Friday, except Federal holidays. For service information identified in this NPRM, contact Safran Helicopter Engines, S.A., 64511 Bordes—Cedex, France; phone: (33) 05 59 74 40 00; fax: (33) 05 59 74 45 15. You may view this service information at the FAA, Airworthiness Products Section, Operational Safety Branch, 1200 District Avenue, Burlington, MA 01803. For information on the availability of this material at the FAA, call (781) 238– 7759. ADDRESSES: Examining the AD Docket You may examine the AD docket at https://www.regulations.gov by searching for and locating Docket No. FAA–2020–1038; or in person at Docket Operations between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m., Monday through Friday, except Federal holidays. The AD docket contains this NPRM, the mandatory continuing airworthiness information (MCAI), any comments received, and other E:\FR\FM\30NOP1.SGM 30NOP1 Federal Register / Vol. 85, No. 230 / Monday, November 30, 2020 / Proposed Rules information. The street address for Docket Operations is listed above. FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Wego Wang, Aviation Safety Engineer, ECO Branch, FAA, 1200 District Avenue, Burlington, MA 01803; phone: (781) 238–7134; fax: (781) 238–7199; email: wego.wang@faa.gov. SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: Comments Invited The FAA invites you to send any written relevant data, views, or arguments about this proposal. Send your comments to an address listed under ADDRESSES. Include ‘‘Docket No. FAA–2020–1038; Project Identifier MCAI–2020–00569–E’’ at the beginning of your comments The most helpful comments reference a specific portion of the proposal, explain the reason for any recommended change, and include supporting data. The FAA will consider all comments received by the closing date and may amend this proposal because of those comments. Except for Confidential Business Information (CBI) as described in the following paragraph, and other information as described in 14 CFR 11.35, the FAA will post all comments received, without change, to https:// www.regulations.gov, including any personal information you provide. The agency will also post a report summarizing each substantive verbal contact received about this NPRM. Confidential Business Information TKELLEY on DSKBCP9HB2PROD with PROPOSALS CBI is commercial or financial information that is both customarily and actually treated as private by its owner. Under the Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) (5 U.S.C. 552), CBI is exempt from public disclosure. If your comments responsive to this NPRM contain commercial or financial information that is customarily treated as private, that you actually treat as private, and that is relevant or responsive to this NPRM, it is important that you clearly designate the submitted comments as CBI. Please mark each page of your submission containing CBI as ‘‘PROPIN.’’ The FAA will treat such marked submissions as confidential under the FOIA, and they will not be placed in the public docket of this NPRM. Submissions containing CBI should be sent to Wego Wang, Aviation Safety Engineer, ECO Branch, FAA, 1200 District Avenue, Burlington, MA 01803. Any commentary that the FAA receives which is not specifically designated as CBI will be placed in the public docket for this rulemaking. Background The European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA), which is the Technical Agent for the Member States of the European Community, has issued EASA AD 2018–0273, dated December 13, 2018 (referred to after this as ‘‘the MCAI’’), to address the unsafe condition on these products. The MCAI states: The airworthiness limitations and maintenance tasks for the SAFRAN ARRIEL 2D, ARRIEL 2E and ARRIEL 2N engines, which are approved by EASA, are currently defined and published in the SAFRAN ARRIEL 2 Maintenance and Overhaul Manuals, as applicable. These instructions have been identified as mandatory for continued airworthiness. Failure to accomplish these instructions could result in an unsafe condition. SAFRAN recently revised the applicable Maintenance and Overhaul Manuals (the applicable ALS), introducing new and/or more restrictive airworthiness limitations and maintenance tasks. For the reason described above, this [EASA] AD requires accomplishment of the actions specified in the applicable ALS. You may obtain further information by examining the MCAI in the AD docket at https://www.regulations.gov by searching for and locating Docket No. FAA–2020–1038. FAA’s Determination The FAA is issuing this NPRM after determining that the unsafe condition described previously is likely to exist or develop on other products of the same type design. Related Service Information Under 1 CFR Part 51 The FAA reviewed Chapter 05–10–00 of Safran Helicopter Engines ARRIEL 2D Maintenance Manual (MM) No. X292 R1 450 2, Update No. 20, dated June 15, 2020. Safran Helicopter Engines ARRIEL 2D MM X292 R1 450 2 identifies the terms used in tables for limits and mandatory maintenance tasks, usage counters of the engine log book, life limits for life-limited parts, and 76493 mandatory inspection tasks to be carried out to reach the airworthiness objectives on Safran Arriel 2D model engines. The FAA reviewed Chapter 05–10–00 of Safran Helicopter Engines ARRIEL 2E MM No. X292 R2 300 2, Update No. 16, dated June 15, 2020. Safran Helicopter Engines ARRIEL 2E MM X292 R2 300 2 identifies the terms used in tables for limits and mandatory maintenance tasks, usage counters of the engine log book, life limits for life-limited parts, and mandatory inspection tasks to be carried out to reach the airworthiness objectives on Safran Arriel 2E model engines. 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 ADDRESSES. Proposed AD Requirements in This NPRM This proposed AD would require the replacement of certain critical parts before reaching their published inservice life limits, performance of schedule maintenance tasks before reaching the published periodicity in the applicable Safran Arriel MM chapter, and performance of unscheduled maintenance tasks when the engine meets certain conditions specified in the applicable Safran Arriel MM chapter. As a terminating action, this proposed AD would require operators to revise the ALS of their existing approved AMP by incorporating the revised airworthiness limitations and maintenance tasks. Differences Between This Proposed AD and the MCAI The MCAI is applicable to Safran Arriel 2D, Arriel 2E, and Arriel 2N model turboshaft engines. This AD is only applicable to Safran Arriel 2D and 2E model turboshaft engines. Safran Arriel 2N model turboshaft engines are not type certificated in the U.S. Costs of Compliance The FAA estimates that this AD, if adopted as proposed, would affect 426 engines installed on helicopters of U.S. registry. The FAA estimates the following costs to comply with this proposed AD: ESTIMATED COSTS Action Labor cost Remove and replace critical parts .................. Perform maintenance tasks ............................ Revise the ALS and AMP ............................... 12 work-hours × $85 per hour = $1,020 ........ 1 work-hour × $85 per hour = $85 ................. 1 work-hour × 85 per hour = 85 ..................... VerDate Sep<11>2014 17:33 Nov 27, 2020 Jkt 253001 PO 00000 Frm 00005 Fmt 4702 Sfmt 4702 Parts cost $1,152 1,152 0 E:\FR\FM\30NOP1.SGM 30NOP1 Cost per product $2,172 1,237 85 Cost on U.S. operators $925,272 526,962 36,210 76494 Federal Register / Vol. 85, No. 230 / Monday, November 30, 2020 / Proposed Rules The FAA estimates the following costs to do any necessary corrective actions that would be required based on the results of the proposed maintenance tasks. The agency has no way of determining the number of aircraft that might need these actions. ON-CONDITION COSTS Action Labor cost Perform corrective action ............................................. 1 work-hour × $85 per hour = $85 ............................... 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 TKELLEY on DSKBCP9HB2PROD with PROPOSALS The FAA determined that this proposed AD would not have federalism implications under Executive Order 13132. This proposed AD would not have a substantial direct effect on the States, on the relationship between the national government and the States, or on the distribution of power and responsibilities among the various levels of government. For the reasons discussed above, I certify this proposed regulation: (1) Is not a ‘‘significant regulatory action’’ under Executive Order 12866, (2) Would not affect intrastate aviation in Alaska, and (3) Would not have a significant economic impact, positive or negative, on a substantial number of small entities under the criteria of the Regulatory Flexibility Act. List of Subjects in 14 CFR Part 39 Air transportation, Aircraft, Aviation safety, Incorporation by reference, Safety. The Proposed Amendment Accordingly, under the authority delegated to me by the Administrator, VerDate Sep<11>2014 17:33 Nov 27, 2020 Jkt 253001 the FAA proposes to amend 14 CFR part 39 as follows: PART 39—AIRWORTHINESS DIRECTIVES 1. The authority citation for part 39 continues to read as follows: ■ Authority: 49 U.S.C. 106(g), 40113, 44701. § 39.13 [Amended] 2. The FAA amends § 39.13 by adding the following new airworthiness directive: ■ Safran Helicopter Engines, S.A., (Type Certificate previously held by Turbomeca, S.A.): Docket No. FAA– 2020–1038; Project Identifier MCAI– 2020–00569–E. (a) Comments Due Date The FAA must receive comments on this airworthiness directive (AD) by January 14, 2021. (b) Affected ADs None. (c) Applicability This AD applies to all Safran Helicopter Engines, S.A. (Safran) (Type Certificate previously held by Turbomeca, S.A.) Arriel 2D and Arriel 2E model turboshaft engines. (d) Subject Joint Aircraft System Component (JASC) Code 7250, Turbine Section. (e) Unsafe Condition This AD was prompted by the manufacturer revising the maintenance and overhaul manuals to introduce new or more restrictive airworthiness limitations and maintenance tasks. The FAA is issuing this AD to prevent failure of the engine. The unsafe condition, if not addressed, could result in uncontained release of a critical part, damage to the engine, and damage to the helicopter. (f) Compliance Comply with this AD within the compliance times specified, unless already done. (g) Required Actions (1) Replace each critical part before reaching the in-service life limits specified in paragraph 1.C., ‘‘Table of authorized inservice life limits for the ARRIEL 2D,’’ or ‘‘Table of authorized in-service life limits for the ARRIEL 2E,’’ Chapter 05–10–00 of the PO 00000 Frm 00006 Fmt 4702 Sfmt 4702 Cost per product Parts cost $0 $85 Safran ARRIEL Maintenance Manual (MM) for that engine. (2) Before reaching the periodicity specified in paragraph 1., ‘‘Tables of Mandatory Maintenance Tasks,’’ table D., ‘‘Scheduled inspection,’’ Chapter 05–10–00 of the Safran ARRIEL MM for that engine, perform all maintenance tasks specified in table D. (3) When the engine meets the conditions specified in paragraph 1., table E., ‘‘Unscheduled inspection,’’ Chapter 05–10– 00 of the Safran ARRIEL MM for that engine, perform the maintenance tasks specified in table E. (4) If, during performance of the maintenance tasks required by paragraph (g)(2) or (3) of this AD, a discrepancy is found, as defined in the applicable ALS, perform the corrective actions specified in paragraph 1., ‘‘Tables of Mandatory Maintenance Tasks,’’ table D., ‘‘Scheduled inspection,’’ or E. ‘‘Unscheduled inspection,’’ Chapter 05–10–00 of the Safran ARRIEL MM for the engine. (5) If no compliance time is identified in Chapter 05–10–00 of the Safran ARRIEL MM, perform the corrective action before further flight. (h) Exception to Paragraphs (g)(2) and (3) Where the applicable Safran ARRIEL MM chapters provide instructions to send the Module 03 to a Safran Helicopter Enginesapproved repair center, the operator may choose to send the Module 03 to any FAAapproved repair center capable of performing the required actions. (i) Mandatory Terminating Action As terminating action to the requirements in paragraph (g) of this AD, within 365 days after the effective date of this AD, revise the ALS of the existing approved aircraft maintenance program (AMP) by incorporating: (i) Task 05–10–00–150–801–A01, ‘‘Airworthiness Limitations—General,’’ from the applicable Safran ARRIEL MM chapter. (ii) Task 05–10–00–200–801–A01, ‘‘Airworthiness Limitations—Authorized InService Life Limits,’’ from the applicable Safran ARRIEL MM chapter. (iii) Task 05–10–10–200–801–A01, ‘‘Airworthiness Limitations—Tables of Mandatory Maintenance Tasks,’’ from the applicable Safran ARRIEL MM chapter. (j) Definitions (1) For the purpose of this AD, a ‘‘critical part’’ is a part identified in paragraph 1.C., ‘‘Table of authorized in-service life limits for the ARRIEL 2D,’’ or ‘‘Table of authorized inservice life limits for the ARRIEL 2E,’’ E:\FR\FM\30NOP1.SGM 30NOP1 Federal Register / Vol. 85, No. 230 / Monday, November 30, 2020 / Proposed Rules Chapter 05–10–00 of the Safran ARRIEL MM for that engine. (2) For the purpose of this AD, the ‘‘Chapter 05–10–00 of the Safran ARRIEL MM’’ is: (i) Chapter 05–10–00 of Safran Aircraft Engines ARRIEL 2D MM No. X292 R1 450 2, Update No. 20, dated June 15, 2020; or (ii) Chapter 05–10–00 of Safran Aircraft Engines ARRIEL 2E MM No. X292 R2 300 2, Update No. 16, dated June 15, 2020. (3) For the purpose of this AD, the ‘‘approved maintenance program’’ is defined as the basis for which the operator ensures the continuing airworthiness of each operated helicopter. (k) Credit for Previous Actions (1) For affected Safran Arriel 2D model turboshaft engines, you may take credit for revising the ALS of the existing approved AMP that is required by paragraph (i) of this AD if you incorporated the tasks before the effective date of this AD using Chapter 05– 10–00 of Safran ARRIEL 2D MM No. X292 R1 450 2, Update No. 19, dated December 30, 2019. (2) For affected Safran Arriel 2E model turboshaft engines, you may take credit for revising the ALS of the existing approved AMP that is required by paragraph (i) of this AD if you incorporated the tasks before the effective date of this AD using Chapter 05– 10–00 of Safran ARRIEL 2E MM No. X292 R2 300 2, Update No. 15, dated December 30, 2019. TKELLEY on DSKBCP9HB2PROD with PROPOSALS (l) Alternative Methods of Compliance (AMOCs) (1) The Manager, ECO 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 Related Information. You may email your request to: ANE-AD-AMOC@ 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. (m) Related Information (1) For more information about this AD, contact Wego Wang, Aviation Safety Engineer, ECO Branch, FAA, 1200 District Avenue, Burlington, MA 01803; phone: (781) 238–7134; fax: (781) 238–7199; email: wego.wang@faa.gov. (2) Refer to European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) AD 2018–0273, dated December 13, 2018, for more information. You may examine the EASA AD in the AD docket at https://www.regulations.gov by searching for and locating it in Docket No. FAA–2020–1038. (3) For service information identified in this AD, contact Safran Helicopter Engines, S.A., 64511 Bordes—Cedex, France; phone: (33) 05 59 74 40 00; fax: (33) 05 59 74 45 15. You may view this referenced service information at the FAA, Airworthiness VerDate Sep<11>2014 17:33 Nov 27, 2020 Jkt 253001 Products Section, Operational Safety Branch, 1200 District Avenue, Burlington, MA 01803. For information on the availability of this material at the FAA, call (781) 238–7759. Issued on November 24, 2020. Lance T. Gant, Director, Compliance & Airworthiness Division, Aircraft Certification Service. [FR Doc. 2020–26337 Filed 11–27–20; 8:45 am] BILLING CODE 4910–13–P DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION Federal Aviation Administration 14 CFR Part 39 [Docket No. FAA–2020–1036; Project Identifier MCAI–2020–01430–R] RIN 2120–AA64 Airworthiness Directives; Airbus Helicopters Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), DOT. ACTION: Notice of proposed rulemaking (NPRM). AGENCY: The FAA proposes to adopt a new airworthiness directive (AD) for certain Airbus Helicopters Model SA– 365N, SA–365N1, AS–365N2, AS 365 N3, EC 155B, and EC155B1 helicopters. This proposed AD was prompted by the FAA’s determination that to improve the process and performance in collecting metal particles in the main gear box (MGB) certain existing magnetic plugs (electrical and nonelectrical) installed in the MGB pump intake must be replaced with improved non-electrical magnetic plugs. This proposed AD would require replacing the existing magnetic plug with an improved non-electrical magnetic plug, as specified in a European Aviation Safety Agency (now European Union Aviation Safety Agency) (EASA) AD, which is proposed for incorporation by reference. The FAA is proposing this AD to address the unsafe condition on these products. DATES: The FAA must receive comments on this proposed AD by January 14, 2021. SUMMARY: You may send comments, using the procedures found in 14 CFR 11.43 and 11.45, by any of the following methods: • Federal eRulemaking Portal: Go to https://www.regulations.gov. Follow the instructions for submitting comments. • Fax: 202–493–2251. • Mail: U.S. Department of Transportation, Docket Operations, M– 30, West Building Ground Floor, Room ADDRESSES: PO 00000 Frm 00007 Fmt 4702 Sfmt 4702 76495 W12–140, 1200 New Jersey Avenue SE, Washington, DC 20590. • Hand Delivery: Deliver to Mail address above between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m., Monday through Friday, except Federal holidays. For material that will be incorporated by reference (IBR) in this AD, contact the EASA, Konrad-Adenauer-Ufer 3, 50668 Cologne, Germany; telephone +49 221 8999 000; email ADs@ easa.europa.eu; internet www.easa.europa.eu. You may find this IBR material on the EASA website at https://ad.easa.europa.eu. You may view this IBR material at the FAA, 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. It is also available in the AD docket on the internet at https:// www.regulations.gov by searching for and locating Docket No. FAA–2020– 1036. 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– 1036; or in person at Docket Operations between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m., Monday through Friday, except Federal holidays. The AD docket contains this NPRM, any comments received, and other information. The street address for Docket Operations is listed above. Comments will be available in the AD docket shortly after receipt. FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Mahmood Shah, Aviation Safety Engineer, Fort Worth ACO Branch, FAA, 10101 Hillwood Pkwy., Fort Worth, TX 76177; telephone 817–222– 5538; email mahmood.g.shah@faa.gov. SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: Comments Invited The FAA invites you to send any written relevant data, views, or arguments about this proposal. Send your comments to an address listed under ADDRESSES. Include ‘‘Docket No. FAA–2020–1036; Project Identifier MCAI–2020–01430–R’’ at the beginning of your comments. The most helpful comments reference a specific portion of the proposal, explain the reason for any recommended change, and include supporting data. The FAA will consider all comments received by the closing date and may amend this proposal because of those comments. Except for Confidential Business Information (CBI) as described in the following paragraph, and other E:\FR\FM\30NOP1.SGM 30NOP1

Agencies

[Federal Register Volume 85, Number 230 (Monday, November 30, 2020)]
[Proposed Rules]
[Pages 76492-76495]
From the Federal Register Online via the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]
[FR Doc No: 2020-26337]


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DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION

Federal Aviation Administration

14 CFR Part 39

[Docket No. FAA-2020-1038; Project Identifier MCAI-2020-00569-E]
RIN 2120-AA64


Airworthiness Directives; Safran Helicopter Engines, S.A. (Type 
Certificate Previously Held by Turbomeca, S.A.) Turboshaft Engines

AGENCY: Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), DOT.

ACTION: Notice of proposed rulemaking (NPRM).

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

SUMMARY: The FAA proposes to adopt a new airworthiness directive (AD) 
for all Safran Helicopter Engines, S.A. (Safran) Arriel 2D and Arriel 
2E model turboshaft engines. This proposed AD was prompted by the 
manufacturer revising the maintenance and overhaul manuals to introduce 
new or more restrictive airworthiness limitations and maintenance 
tasks. This proposed AD would require the replacement of certain 
critical parts before reaching their published in-service life limits, 
performing scheduled maintenance tasks before reaching their published 
periodicity, and performing unscheduled maintenance tasks when the 
engine meets certain conditions. As a terminating action, this proposed 
AD would require operators to revise the airworthiness limitation 
section (ALS) of their existing approved aircraft maintenance program 
(AMP) by incorporating the revised airworthiness limitations and 
maintenance tasks. The FAA is proposing this AD to address the unsafe 
condition on these products.

DATES: The FAA must receive comments on this proposed AD by January 14, 
2021.

ADDRESSES: You may send comments, using the procedures found in 14 CFR 
11.43 and 11.45, by any of the following methods:
     Federal eRulemaking Portal: Go to https://www.regulations.gov. Follow the instructions for submitting comments.
     Fax: (202) 493-2251.
     Mail: U.S. Department of Transportation, Docket 
Operations, M-30, West Building Ground Floor, Room W12 140, 1200 New 
Jersey Avenue SE, Washington, DC 20590.
     Hand Delivery: Deliver to Mail address above between 9 
a.m. and 5 p.m., Monday through Friday, except Federal holidays.
    For service information identified in this NPRM, contact Safran 
Helicopter Engines, S.A., 64511 Bordes--Cedex, France; phone: (33) 05 
59 74 40 00; fax: (33) 05 59 74 45 15. You may view this service 
information at the FAA, Airworthiness Products Section, Operational 
Safety Branch, 1200 District Avenue, Burlington, MA 01803. For 
information on the availability of this material at the FAA, call (781) 
238-7759.

Examining the AD Docket

    You may examine the AD docket at https://www.regulations.gov by 
searching for and locating Docket No. FAA-2020-1038; or in person at 
Docket Operations between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m., Monday through Friday, 
except Federal holidays. The AD docket contains this NPRM, the 
mandatory continuing airworthiness information (MCAI), any comments 
received, and other

[[Page 76493]]

information. The street address for Docket Operations is listed above.

FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Wego Wang, Aviation Safety Engineer, 
ECO Branch, FAA, 1200 District Avenue, Burlington, MA 01803; phone: 
(781) 238-7134; fax: (781) 238-7199; email: [email protected].

SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION:

Comments Invited

    The FAA invites you to send any written relevant data, views, or 
arguments about this proposal. Send your comments to an address listed 
under ADDRESSES. Include ``Docket No. FAA-2020-1038; Project Identifier 
MCAI-2020-00569-E'' at the beginning of your comments The most helpful 
comments reference a specific portion of the proposal, explain the 
reason for any recommended change, and include supporting data. The FAA 
will consider all comments received by the closing date and may amend 
this proposal because of those comments.
    Except for Confidential Business Information (CBI) as described in 
the following paragraph, and other information as described in 14 CFR 
11.35, the FAA will post all comments received, without change, to 
https://www.regulations.gov, including any personal information you 
provide. The agency will also post a report summarizing each 
substantive verbal contact received about this NPRM.

Confidential Business Information

    CBI is commercial or financial information that is both customarily 
and actually treated as private by its owner. Under the Freedom of 
Information Act (FOIA) (5 U.S.C. 552), CBI is exempt from public 
disclosure. If your comments responsive to this NPRM contain commercial 
or financial information that is customarily treated as private, that 
you actually treat as private, and that is relevant or responsive to 
this NPRM, it is important that you clearly designate the submitted 
comments as CBI. Please mark each page of your submission containing 
CBI as ``PROPIN.'' The FAA will treat such marked submissions as 
confidential under the FOIA, and they will not be placed in the public 
docket of this NPRM. Submissions containing CBI should be sent to Wego 
Wang, Aviation Safety Engineer, ECO Branch, FAA, 1200 District Avenue, 
Burlington, MA 01803. Any commentary that the FAA receives which is not 
specifically designated as CBI will be placed in the public docket for 
this rulemaking.

Background

    The European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA), which is the 
Technical Agent for the Member States of the European Community, has 
issued EASA AD 2018-0273, dated December 13, 2018 (referred to after 
this as ``the MCAI''), to address the unsafe condition on these 
products. The MCAI states:

    The airworthiness limitations and maintenance tasks for the 
SAFRAN ARRIEL 2D, ARRIEL 2E and ARRIEL 2N engines, which are 
approved by EASA, are currently defined and published in the SAFRAN 
ARRIEL 2 Maintenance and Overhaul Manuals, as applicable. These 
instructions have been identified as mandatory for continued 
airworthiness.
    Failure to accomplish these instructions could result in an 
unsafe condition.
    SAFRAN recently revised the applicable Maintenance and Overhaul 
Manuals (the applicable ALS), introducing new and/or more 
restrictive airworthiness limitations and maintenance tasks.
    For the reason described above, this [EASA] AD requires 
accomplishment of the actions specified in the applicable ALS.

    You may obtain further information by examining the MCAI in the AD 
docket at https://www.regulations.gov by searching for and locating 
Docket No. FAA-2020-1038.

FAA's Determination

    The FAA is issuing this NPRM after determining that the unsafe 
condition described previously is likely to exist or develop on other 
products of the same type design.

Related Service Information Under 1 CFR Part 51

    The FAA reviewed Chapter 05-10-00 of Safran Helicopter Engines 
ARRIEL 2D Maintenance Manual (MM) No. X292 R1 450 2, Update No. 20, 
dated June 15, 2020. Safran Helicopter Engines ARRIEL 2D MM X292 R1 450 
2 identifies the terms used in tables for limits and mandatory 
maintenance tasks, usage counters of the engine log book, life limits 
for life-limited parts, and mandatory inspection tasks to be carried 
out to reach the airworthiness objectives on Safran Arriel 2D model 
engines.
    The FAA reviewed Chapter 05-10-00 of Safran Helicopter Engines 
ARRIEL 2E MM No. X292 R2 300 2, Update No. 16, dated June 15, 2020. 
Safran Helicopter Engines ARRIEL 2E MM X292 R2 300 2 identifies the 
terms used in tables for limits and mandatory maintenance tasks, usage 
counters of the engine log book, life limits for life-limited parts, 
and mandatory inspection tasks to be carried out to reach the 
airworthiness objectives on Safran Arriel 2E model engines.
    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 ADDRESSES.

Proposed AD Requirements in This NPRM

    This proposed AD would require the replacement of certain critical 
parts before reaching their published in-service life limits, 
performance of schedule maintenance tasks before reaching the published 
periodicity in the applicable Safran Arriel MM chapter, and performance 
of unscheduled maintenance tasks when the engine meets certain 
conditions specified in the applicable Safran Arriel MM chapter. As a 
terminating action, this proposed AD would require operators to revise 
the ALS of their existing approved AMP by incorporating the revised 
airworthiness limitations and maintenance tasks.

Differences Between This Proposed AD and the MCAI

    The MCAI is applicable to Safran Arriel 2D, Arriel 2E, and Arriel 
2N model turboshaft engines. This AD is only applicable to Safran 
Arriel 2D and 2E model turboshaft engines. Safran Arriel 2N model 
turboshaft engines are not type certificated in the U.S.

Costs of Compliance

    The FAA estimates that this AD, if adopted as proposed, would 
affect 426 engines installed on helicopters of U.S. registry.
    The FAA estimates the following costs to comply with this proposed 
AD:

                                                 Estimated Costs
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                                     Cost per      Cost on U.S.
                Action                         Labor cost           Parts cost        product        operators
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Remove and replace critical parts.....  12 work-hours x $85 per           $1,152          $2,172        $925,272
                                         hour = $1,020.
Perform maintenance tasks.............  1 work-hour x $85 per              1,152           1,237         526,962
                                         hour = $85.
Revise the ALS and AMP................  1 work-hour x 85 per                   0              85          36,210
                                         hour = 85.
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------


[[Page 76494]]

    The FAA estimates the following costs to do any necessary 
corrective actions that would be required based on the results of the 
proposed maintenance tasks. The agency has no way of determining the 
number of aircraft that might need these actions.

                                               On-Condition Costs
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                                                     Cost per
                    Action                                 Labor cost               Parts cost        product
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Perform corrective action.....................  1 work-hour x $85 per hour = $85              $0             $85
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Authority for This Rulemaking

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

Regulatory Findings

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

List of Subjects in 14 CFR Part 39

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

The Proposed Amendment

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

PART 39--AIRWORTHINESS DIRECTIVES

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

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


Sec.  39.13  [Amended]

0
2. The FAA amends Sec.  39.13 by adding the following new airworthiness 
directive:

Safran Helicopter Engines, S.A., (Type Certificate previously held 
by Turbomeca, S.A.): Docket No. FAA-2020-1038; Project Identifier 
MCAI-2020-00569-E.

(a) Comments Due Date

    The FAA must receive comments on this airworthiness directive 
(AD) by January 14, 2021.

(b) Affected ADs

    None.

(c) Applicability

    This AD applies to all Safran Helicopter Engines, S.A. (Safran) 
(Type Certificate previously held by Turbomeca, S.A.) Arriel 2D and 
Arriel 2E model turboshaft engines.

(d) Subject

    Joint Aircraft System Component (JASC) Code 7250, Turbine 
Section.

(e) Unsafe Condition

    This AD was prompted by the manufacturer revising the 
maintenance and overhaul manuals to introduce new or more 
restrictive airworthiness limitations and maintenance tasks. The FAA 
is issuing this AD to prevent failure of the engine. The unsafe 
condition, if not addressed, could result in uncontained release of 
a critical part, damage to the engine, and damage to the helicopter.

(f) Compliance

    Comply with this AD within the compliance times specified, 
unless already done.

(g) Required Actions

    (1) Replace each critical part before reaching the in-service 
life limits specified in paragraph 1.C., ``Table of authorized in-
service life limits for the ARRIEL 2D,'' or ``Table of authorized 
in-service life limits for the ARRIEL 2E,'' Chapter 05-10-00 of the 
Safran ARRIEL Maintenance Manual (MM) for that engine.
    (2) Before reaching the periodicity specified in paragraph 1., 
``Tables of Mandatory Maintenance Tasks,'' table D., ``Scheduled 
inspection,'' Chapter 05-10-00 of the Safran ARRIEL MM for that 
engine, perform all maintenance tasks specified in table D.
    (3) When the engine meets the conditions specified in paragraph 
1., table E., ``Unscheduled inspection,'' Chapter 05-10-00 of the 
Safran ARRIEL MM for that engine, perform the maintenance tasks 
specified in table E.
    (4) If, during performance of the maintenance tasks required by 
paragraph (g)(2) or (3) of this AD, a discrepancy is found, as 
defined in the applicable ALS, perform the corrective actions 
specified in paragraph 1., ``Tables of Mandatory Maintenance 
Tasks,'' table D., ``Scheduled inspection,'' or E. ``Unscheduled 
inspection,'' Chapter 05-10-00 of the Safran ARRIEL MM for the 
engine.
    (5) If no compliance time is identified in Chapter 05-10-00 of 
the Safran ARRIEL MM, perform the corrective action before further 
flight.

(h) Exception to Paragraphs (g)(2) and (3)

    Where the applicable Safran ARRIEL MM chapters provide 
instructions to send the Module 03 to a Safran Helicopter Engines-
approved repair center, the operator may choose to send the Module 
03 to any FAA-approved repair center capable of performing the 
required actions.

(i) Mandatory Terminating Action

    As terminating action to the requirements in paragraph (g) of 
this AD, within 365 days after the effective date of this AD, revise 
the ALS of the existing approved aircraft maintenance program (AMP) 
by incorporating:
    (i) Task 05-10-00-150-801-A01, ``Airworthiness Limitations--
General,'' from the applicable Safran ARRIEL MM chapter.
    (ii) Task 05-10-00-200-801-A01, ``Airworthiness Limitations--
Authorized In-Service Life Limits,'' from the applicable Safran 
ARRIEL MM chapter.
    (iii) Task 05-10-10-200-801-A01, ``Airworthiness Limitations--
Tables of Mandatory Maintenance Tasks,'' from the applicable Safran 
ARRIEL MM chapter.

(j) Definitions

    (1) For the purpose of this AD, a ``critical part'' is a part 
identified in paragraph 1.C., ``Table of authorized in-service life 
limits for the ARRIEL 2D,'' or ``Table of authorized in-service life 
limits for the ARRIEL 2E,''

[[Page 76495]]

Chapter 05-10-00 of the Safran ARRIEL MM for that engine.
    (2) For the purpose of this AD, the ``Chapter 05-10-00 of the 
Safran ARRIEL MM'' is:
    (i) Chapter 05-10-00 of Safran Aircraft Engines ARRIEL 2D MM No. 
X292 R1 450 2, Update No. 20, dated June 15, 2020; or
    (ii) Chapter 05-10-00 of Safran Aircraft Engines ARRIEL 2E MM 
No. X292 R2 300 2, Update No. 16, dated June 15, 2020.
    (3) For the purpose of this AD, the ``approved maintenance 
program'' is defined as the basis for which the operator ensures the 
continuing airworthiness of each operated helicopter.

(k) Credit for Previous Actions

    (1) For affected Safran Arriel 2D model turboshaft engines, you 
may take credit for revising the ALS of the existing approved AMP 
that is required by paragraph (i) of this AD if you incorporated the 
tasks before the effective date of this AD using Chapter 05-10-00 of 
Safran ARRIEL 2D MM No. X292 R1 450 2, Update No. 19, dated December 
30, 2019.
    (2) For affected Safran Arriel 2E model turboshaft engines, you 
may take credit for revising the ALS of the existing approved AMP 
that is required by paragraph (i) of this AD if you incorporated the 
tasks before the effective date of this AD using Chapter 05-10-00 of 
Safran ARRIEL 2E MM No. X292 R2 300 2, Update No. 15, dated December 
30, 2019.

(l) Alternative Methods of Compliance (AMOCs)

    (1) The Manager, ECO 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 Related Information. You may email your request to: 
[email protected].
    (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.

(m) Related Information

    (1) For more information about this AD, contact Wego Wang, 
Aviation Safety Engineer, ECO Branch, FAA, 1200 District Avenue, 
Burlington, MA 01803; phone: (781) 238-7134; fax: (781) 238-7199; 
email: [email protected].
    (2) Refer to European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) AD 
2018-0273, dated December 13, 2018, for more information. You may 
examine the EASA AD in the AD docket at https://www.regulations.gov 
by searching for and locating it in Docket No. FAA-2020-1038.
    (3) For service information identified in this AD, contact 
Safran Helicopter Engines, S.A., 64511 Bordes--Cedex, France; phone: 
(33) 05 59 74 40 00; fax: (33) 05 59 74 45 15. You may view this 
referenced service information at the FAA, Airworthiness Products 
Section, Operational Safety Branch, 1200 District Avenue, 
Burlington, MA 01803. For information on the availability of this 
material at the FAA, call (781) 238-7759.

    Issued on November 24, 2020.
Lance T. Gant,
Director, Compliance & Airworthiness Division, Aircraft Certification 
Service.
[FR Doc. 2020-26337 Filed 11-27-20; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE 4910-13-P
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