Airworthiness Directives; Airbus Helicopters, 76955-76958 [2020-26422]
Download as PDF
<![CDATA[
Federal Register / Vol. 85, No. 231 / Tuesday, December 1, 2020 / Rules and Regulations
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 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:
■
2020–24–09 Piper Aircraft, Inc.:
Amendment 39–21339; Docket No.
FAA–2020–0712; Product Identifier
2019–CE–013–AD.
(a) Effective Date
This airworthiness directive (AD) is
effective January 5, 2021.
(b) Affected ADs
None.
(c) Applicability
This AD applies to Piper Aircraft, Inc.,
Model PA–34–220T airplanes, serial numbers
3449459 and 3449467 through 3449508,
certificated in any category.
(d) Subject
Joint Aircraft System Component (JASC)/
Air Transport Association (ATA) of America
Code 27. Flight Controls.
khammond on DSKJM1Z7X2PROD with RULES3
(e) Unsafe Condition
This AD was prompted by a report of
damage to the rudder flight control cables
and the emergency power supply (EPS)
system wiring due to inadequate clearance
from the EPS wiring harness. The FAA is
issuing this AD to detect, correct, and
prevent damaged rudder flight control cables
and EPS system wiring. The unsafe
condition, if not addressed, could result in
electrical arcing between the EPS and the
rudder flight control cables with consequent
failure of the rudder flight control system.
This failure could cause loss of yaw control
and lead to loss of control of the airplane
during an engine out condition/operation.
(f) Compliance
Unless already done, comply with this AD
within 50 hours time-in-service after the
effective date of this AD or within 6 months
after the effective date of this AD, whichever
occurs first.
(g) Inspect, Replace, and Relocate
(1) Inspect the rudder flight control cables
and the EPS wiring for chafing and damage
VerDate Sep<11>2014
16:24 Nov 30, 2020
Jkt 253001
by following step 3 of the Instructions in
Piper Service Bulletin No. 1337, dated
February 15, 2019 (Piper SB No. 1337). If
there is any chafing or damage, before further
flight, replace the rudder flight control cable
and EPS wiring.
(2) Relocate the EPS wiring harness by
following steps 4 through 12 of the
Instructions in Piper SB No. 1337.
(h) Alternative Methods of Compliance
(AMOCs)
(1) The Manager, Atlanta ACO 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.
(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.
(3) For service information that contains
steps that are labeled as Required for
Compliance (RC), the following provisions
apply.
(i) The steps labeled as RC, including
substeps under an RC step and any figures
identified in an RC step, must be done to
comply with the AD. An AMOC is required
for any deviations to RC steps, including
substeps and identified figures.
(ii) Steps not labeled as RC may be
deviated from using accepted methods in
accordance with the operator’s maintenance
or inspection program without obtaining
approval of an AMOC, provided the RC steps,
including substeps and identified figures, can
still be done as specified, and the airplane
can be put back in an airworthy condition.
(i) Related Information
For more information about this AD,
contact Bryan Long, Aerospace Engineer,
Atlanta ACO Branch, FAA, 1701 Columbia
Avenue, College Park, Georgia 30337; phone:
(404) 474–5578; fax: (404) 474–5606; email:
bryan.long@faa.gov.
(j) Material Incorporated by Reference
(1) The Director of the Federal Register
approved the incorporation by reference of
the service information listed in this
paragraph under 5 U.S.C. 552(a) and 1 CFR
part 51.
(2) You must use this service information
as applicable to do the actions required by
this AD, unless the AD specifies otherwise.
(i) Piper Service Bulletin No. 1337, dated
February 15, 2019.
(ii) [Reserved]
(3) For the service information identified in
this AD, contact Piper Aircraft, Inc., 2916
Piper Drive, Vero Beach, Florida 32960;
telephone: (772) 567–4361; email:
customer.service@piper.com; internet:
https://www.piper.com.
(4) You may view this service information
at FAA, Airworthiness Products Section,
Operational Safety Branch, 901 Locust,
Kansas City, Missouri 64106. For information
PO 00000
Frm 00007
Fmt 4700
Sfmt 4700
76955
on the availability of this material at the
FAA, call (816) 329–4148.
(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/
ibr-locations.html.
Issued on November 17, 2020.
Lance T. Gant,
Director, Compliance & Airworthiness
Division, Aircraft Certification Service.
[FR Doc. 2020–26473 Filed 11–30–20; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE 4910–13–P
DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION
Federal Aviation Administration
14 CFR Part 39
[Docket No. FAA–2020–1027; Project
Identifier MCAI–2020–01375–R; Amendment
39–21333; AD 2020–24–03]
RIN 2120–AA64
Airworthiness Directives; Airbus
Helicopters
Federal Aviation
Administration (FAA), Department of
Transportation (DOT).
ACTION: Final rule; request for
comments.
AGENCY:
The FAA is adopting a new
airworthiness directive (AD) for Airbus
Helicopters Model AS350B, AS350BA,
AS350B1, AS350B2, AS350D, AS355E,
AS355F, AS355F1, and AS355F2
helicopters. This AD requires testing the
UP/DOWN switches of a certain partnumbered DUNLOP cyclic stick grip,
installing a placard, and revising the
existing Rotorcraft Flight Manual (RFM)
for your helicopter, or removing the
DUNLOP cyclic stick grip. This AD was
prompted by an inadvertent activation
of the rescue hoist cable cutter. The
actions of this AD are intended to
address an unsafe condition on these
products.
DATES: This AD becomes effective
December 16, 2020.
The Director of the Federal Register
approved the incorporation by reference
of certain documents listed in this AD
as of December 16, 2020.
The FAA must receive comments on
this AD by January 15, 2021.
ADDRESSES: You may send comments by
any of the following methods:
• Federal eRulemaking Docket: Go to
https://www.regulations.gov. Follow the
online instructions for sending your
comments electronically.
• Fax: 202–493–2251.
SUMMARY:
E:\FR\FM\01DER1.SGM
01DER1
76956
Federal Register / Vol. 85, No. 231 / Tuesday, December 1, 2020 / Rules and Regulations
• Mail: Send comments to the U.S.
Department of Transportation, Docket
Operations, M–30, West Building
Ground Floor, Room W12–140, 1200
New Jersey Avenue SE, Washington, DC
20590–0001.
• Hand Delivery: Deliver to the
‘‘Mail’’ address between 9 a.m. and 5
p.m., Monday through Friday, except
Federal holidays.
khammond on DSKJM1Z7X2PROD with RULES3
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–
1027; or in person at Docket Operations
between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m., Monday
through Friday, except Federal holidays.
The AD docket contains this AD, the
European Union Aviation Safety Agency
(EASA) AD, any service information
that is incorporated by reference, any
comments received, and other
information. The street address for
Docket Operations is listed above.
Comments will be available in the AD
docket shortly after receipt.
For service information identified in
this final rule, contact Airbus
Helicopters, 2701 N Forum Drive, Grand
Prairie, TX 75052; telephone 972–641–
0000 or 800–232–0323; fax 972–641–
3775; or at https://www.airbus.com/
helicopters/services/technicalsupport.html. You may view the
referenced service information at the
FAA, Office of the Regional Counsel,
Southwest Region, 10101 Hillwood
Pkwy., Room 6N–321, Fort Worth, TX
76177. It is also available on the internet
at https://www.regulations.gov by
searching for and locating Docket No.
FAA–2020–1027.
FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT:
Daniel E. Moore, Aviation Safety
Engineer, Regulations & Policy Section,
Rotorcraft Standards Branch, FAA,
10101 Hillwood Pkwy., Fort Worth, TX
76177; telephone 817–222–5110; email
daniel.e.moore@faa.gov.
SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION:
Comments Invited
The FAA invites you to send any
written data, views, or arguments about
this final rule. Send your comments to
an address listed under ADDRESSES.
Include the docket number FAA–2020–
1027 and Project Identifier MCAI–2020–
01375–R at the beginning of your
comments. The most helpful comments
reference a specific portion of the final
rule, 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 final rule
because of those comments.
VerDate Sep<11>2014
16:24 Nov 30, 2020
Jkt 253001
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 final rule.
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 AD 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 AD,
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 AD. Submissions containing CBI
should be sent to Daniel E. Moore,
Aviation Safety Engineer, Regulations &
Policy Section, Rotorcraft Standards
Branch, FAA, 10101 Hillwood Pkwy.,
Fort Worth, TX 76177; telephone 817–
222–5110; email daniel.e.moore@
faa.gov. Any commentary that the FAA
receives which is not specifically
designated as CBI will be placed in the
public docket for this rulemaking.
Discussion
EASA, which is the Technical Agent
for the Member States of the European
Union, has issued EASA Emergency AD
No. 2020–0217–E, dated October 6,
2020, to correct an unsafe condition for
Airbus Helicopters (AH), formerly
Eurocopter, Eurocopter France,
Aerospatiale, Model AS 350 B, AS 350
BA, AS 350 B1, AS 350 B2, AS 350 D,
AS 355 E, AS 355 F, AS 355 F1, and AS
355 F2 helicopters. EASA advises of a
report of an unintended release of the
rescue hoist hook on a Model AS 350 B2
helicopter during a ground check. The
operator was using the UP/DOWN
switches for rescue hoist control,
installed on DUNLOP cyclic stick grip
part number (P/N) AC66444, when the
hoist’s electrically-actuated cable cutter
function activated. EASA states that this
condition, if not corrected, could lead to
further events of inadvertent activation
of the rescue hoist cable cutter function
and consequent detachment of an
external load or person from the
PO 00000
Frm 00008
Fmt 4700
Sfmt 4700
helicopter hoist, possibly resulting in
personal injury or injury to persons on
the ground.
To address this potential unsafe
condition, Airbus Helicopters published
Emergency Alert Service Bulletin
(EASB) Nos. 01.00.58 and 01.00.72, each
Revision 0 and dated October 1, 2020,
to introduce an operational limitation.
Accordingly, the EASA AD requires
installing a dedicated placard in the
cockpit and amending the applicable
RFM to prohibit the in-flight use of the
UP/DOWN switches for rescue hoist
control installed on DUNLOP cyclic
stick grip P/N AC66444. EASA states its
AD is considered an interim action and
further AD action may follow.
FAA’s Determination
These helicopters have been approved
by EASA and are approved for operation
in the United States. Pursuant to the
FAA’s bilateral agreement with the
European Union, EASA has notified the
FAA of the unsafe condition described
in its AD. The FAA is issuing this AD
after evaluating all information
provided by EASA and determining the
unsafe condition exists and is likely to
exist or develop on other helicopters of
these same type designs.
Related Service Information Under 1
CFR Part 51
The FAA has reviewed Airbus
Helicopters EASB No. 01.00.58 for
Model AS355-series helicopters and
Airbus Helicopters EASB No. 01.00.72
for Model AS350-series helicopters,
each Revision 0 and dated October 1,
2020, which are co-published as one
document. This service information
specifies installing a placard and
revising the Flight Manual to prohibit
the use of the UP/DOWN switches of the
DUNLOP cyclic stick grip manufacturer
P/N (MP/N) AC66444.
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.
AD Requirements
This AD requires accomplishing a
ground test of the UP/DOWN switches
of DUNLOP cyclic stick grip MP/N
AC66444 for proper function before
each hoist operation. If there is any
uncommanded hoist action, this AD
requires removing the DUNLOP cyclic
stick grip from service.
If DUNLOP cyclic stick grip MP/N
AC66444 is installed, before the next
hoist operation, this AD requires
installing a placard and revising the
existing RFM for your helicopter to
prohibit the use of the UP/DOWN
E:\FR\FM\01DER1.SGM
01DER1
Federal Register / Vol. 85, No. 231 / Tuesday, December 1, 2020 / Rules and Regulations
switches of the DUNLOP cyclic stick
grip. Alternatively, this AD allows
removing DUNLOP cyclic stick grip
MP/N AC66444, however before the
DUNLOP cyclic stick grip is re-installed,
this AD requires accomplishing the
ground test of the UP/DOWN switches
and installing the placard and revising
the existing RFM for your helicopter.
This AD also prohibits installing an
affected DUNLOP cyclic stick grip
unless the ground testing of the UP/
DOWN switches has been
accomplished, the placard has been
installed, and the existing RFM for your
helicopter has been revised.
Differences Between This AD and the
EASA AD
The EASA AD applies to all Airbus
Helicopters Model AS 350 B, AS 350
BA, AS 350 B1, AS 350 B2, AS 350 D,
AS 355 E, AS 355 F, AS 355 F1, and AS
355 F2 helicopters, whereas this AD
applies to Airbus Helicopters Model
AS350B, AS350BA, AS350B1,
AS350B2, AS350D, AS355E, AS355F,
AS355F1, and AS355F2 helicopters
with DUNLOP cyclic stick grip MP/N
AC66444 with UP/DOWN switches for
rescue hoist control installed instead.
This AD requires accomplishing a
ground test of the UP/DOWN switches
for proper function before each hoist
operation, whereas the EASA AD does
not.
Interim Action
The FAA considers this AD to be an
interim action. If final action is later
identified, the FAA might consider
further rulemaking then.
khammond on DSKJM1Z7X2PROD with RULES3
Regulatory Flexibility Act
The requirements of the Regulatory
Flexibility Act (RFA) do not apply when
an agency finds good cause pursuant to
5 U.S.C. 553 to adopt a rule without
prior notice and comment. Because FAA
has determined that it has good cause to
adopt this rule without prior notice and
comment, RFA analysis is not required.
Costs of Compliance
The FAA estimates that this AD
affects 390 helicopters of U.S. Registry.
Labor rates are estimated at $85 per
work-hour. Based on these numbers, the
FAA estimates that operators may incur
the following costs in order to comply
with this AD.
Accomplishing a ground test of the
UP/DOWN switches for proper function
takes a minimal amount of time for a
nominal cost. Installing a placard and
revising the existing RFM for your
helicopter takes about 0.5 work-hour for
an estimated cost of $43 per helicopter
and $16,770 for the U.S. fleet.
VerDate Sep<11>2014
16:24 Nov 30, 2020
Jkt 253001
Alternatively, replacing the affected
DUNLOP cyclic stick grip takes about
2.5 work-hours and parts cost about
$2,500 for an estimated cost of $2,713.
FAA’s Justification and Determination
of the Effective Date
Section 553(b)(3)(B) of the
Administrative Procedure Act (5 U.S.C.)
authorizes agencies to dispense with
notice and comment procedures for
rules when the agency, for ‘‘good cause’’
finds that those procedures are
‘‘impracticable, unnecessary, or contrary
to the public interest.’’ Under this
section, an agency, upon finding good
cause, may issue a final rule without
seeking comment prior to the
rulemaking.
An unsafe condition exists that
requires the immediate adoption of this
AD without providing an opportunity
for public comments prior to adoption.
The FAA has found that the risk to the
flying public justifies waiving notice
and comment prior to adoption of this
rule because there are required
corrective actions that must be
completed before the next hoist
operation. Therefore, notice and
opportunity for prior public comment
are impracticable and contrary to public
interest pursuant to 5 U.S.C.
553(b)(3)(B). In addition, for the reasons
stated above, the FAA finds that good
cause exists pursuant to 5 U.S.C. 553(d)
for making this amendment effective in
less than 30 days.
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 AD
will not have federalism implications
under Executive Order 13132. This AD
will not have a substantial direct effect
PO 00000
Frm 00009
Fmt 4700
Sfmt 4700
76957
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, I certify
that this AD:
1. Is not a ‘‘significant regulatory
action’’ under Executive Order 12866,
and
2. Will not affect intrastate aviation in
Alaska.
List of Subjects in 14 CFR Part 39
Air transportation, Aircraft, Aviation
safety, Incorporation by reference,
Safety.
Adoption of the Amendment
Accordingly, under the authority
delegated to me by the Administrator,
the FAA amends 14 CFR part 39 as
follows:
PART 39—AIRWORTHINESS
DIRECTIVES
1. The authority citation for part 39
continues to read as follows:
■
Authority: 49 U.S.C. 106(g), 40113, 44701.
§ 39.13
[Amended]
2. The FAA amends § 39.13 by adding
the following new airworthiness
directive:
■
2020–24–03 Airbus Helicopters:
Amendment 39–21333; Docket No.
FAA–2020–1027; Project Identifier
MCAI–2020–01375–R.
(a) Applicability
This airworthiness directive (AD) applies
to Airbus Helicopters Model AS350B,
AS350BA, AS350B1, AS350B2, AS350D,
AS355E, AS355F, AS355F1, and AS355F2
helicopters, certificated in any category, with
DUNLOP cyclic stick grip manufacturer part
number AC66444 with UP/DOWN switches
for rescue hoist control installed.
(b) Unsafe Condition
This AD defines the unsafe condition as
inadvertent activation of the rescue hoist
cable cutter and consequent detachment of
an external load or person from the
helicopter hoist. This condition could result
in personal injury or injury to persons on the
ground.
(c) Effective Date
This AD becomes effective December 16,
2020.
(d) Compliance
You are responsible for performing each
action required by this AD within the
specified compliance time unless it has
already been accomplished prior to that time.
(e) Required Actions
(1) Before each hoist operation, accomplish
a ground test of the UP/DOWN switches for
proper function. If there is any
E:\FR\FM\01DER1.SGM
01DER1
76958
Federal Register / Vol. 85, No. 231 / Tuesday, December 1, 2020 / Rules and Regulations
uncommanded hoist action, before further
flight, remove the DUNLOP cyclic stick grip
from service.
(2) Before the next hoist operation:
(i) Install a placard in full view of the pilot
by following the Accomplishment
Instructions, paragraph 3.B., of Airbus
Helicopters Emergency Alert Service Bulletin
(EASB) No. 01.00.58 or 01.00.72, each
Revision 0 and dated October 1, 2020 (EASB
01.00.58 or 01.00.72), as applicable to your
helicopter.
(ii) Revise the existing Rotorcraft Flight
Manual (RFM) for your helicopter by
inserting the Limitations page applicable to
your helicopter model and version from
Appendix 4.C. through L, of EASB 01.00.58
or 01.00.72. Inserting a different document
with information identical to that in
Appendix 4.C. through L., of EASB 01.00.58
or 01.00.72, as applicable to your helicopter
model and version, is acceptable for
compliance with the requirement of this
paragraph.
(3) After complying with paragraph (e)(2)
of this AD, each time the DUNLOP cyclic
stick grip that is identified in paragraph (a)
of this AD is removed from the helicopter,
you may remove the placard and RFM
revision that are required by paragraphs
(e)(2)(i) and (ii) of this AD. Before the
DUNLOP cyclic stick grip is re-installed, you
must re-install the placard and RFM revision
that are required by paragraphs (e)(2)(i) and
(ii) of this AD.
(4) As of the effective date of this AD, do
not install a DUNLOP cyclic stick grip that
is identified in paragraph (a) of this AD
unless the requirements of paragraphs (e)(1)
and (2) of this AD have been accomplished.
khammond on DSKJM1Z7X2PROD with RULES3
(f) Alternative Methods of Compliance
(AMOCs)
(1) The Manager, Rotorcraft Standards
Branch, FAA, may approve AMOCs for this
AD. Send your proposal to: Daniel E. Moore,
Aviation Safety Engineer, Regulations &
Policy Section, Rotorcraft Standards Branch,
FAA, 10101 Hillwood Pkwy., Fort Worth, TX
76177; telephone 817–222–5110; email 9ASW-FTW-AMOC-Requests@faa.gov.
(2) For operations conducted under a 14
CFR part 119 operating certificate or under
14 CFR part 91, subpart K, the FAA suggests
that you notify your principal inspector, or
lacking a principal inspector, the manager of
the local flight standards district office or
certificate holding district office, before
operating any aircraft complying with this
AD through an AMOC.
(g) Additional Information
The subject of this AD is addressed in
European Union Aviation Safety Agency
(EASA) AD No. 2020–0217–E, dated October
6, 2020. You may view the EASA AD on the
internet at https://www.regulations.gov by
searching for and locating it in Docket No.
FAA–2020–1027.
(h) Subject
Joint Aircraft Service Component (JASC)
Code: 6700, Rotorcraft Flight Control.
(i) Material Incorporated by Reference
(1) The Director of the Federal Register
approved the incorporation by reference of
VerDate Sep<11>2014
16:24 Nov 30, 2020
Jkt 253001
the service information listed in this
paragraph under 5 U.S.C. 552(a) and 1 CFR
part 51.
(2) You must use this service information
as applicable to do the actions required by
this AD, unless the AD specifies otherwise.
(i) Airbus Helicopters Emergency Alert
Service Bulletin (EASB) No. 01.00.58,
Revision 0, dated October 1, 2020.
(ii) Airbus Helicopters EASB No. 01.00.72,
Revision 0, dated October 1, 2020.
Note 1 to paragraph (i)(2): Airbus
Helicopters EASB Nos. 01.00.58 and
01.00.72, each Revision 0 and dated October
1, 2020, are co-published as one document.
(3) For service information identified in
this AD, contact Airbus Helicopters, 2701 N
Forum Drive, Grand Prairie, TX 75052;
telephone 972–641–0000 or 800–232–0323;
fax 972–641–3775; or at https://
www.airbus.com/helicopters/services/
technical-support.html.
(4) You may view this service information
at the FAA, Office of the Regional Counsel,
Southwest Region, 10101 Hillwood Pkwy.,
Room 6N–321, Fort Worth, TX 76177. For
information on the availability of this
material at the FAA, call 817–222–5110.
(5) You may view this service information
that is incorporated by reference at the
National Archives and Records
Administration (NARA). For information on
the availability of this material at NARA,
email fedreg.legal@nara.gov, or go to: https://
www.archives.gov/federal-register/cfr/ibrlocations.html.
Issued on November 12, 2020.
Lance T. Gant,
Director, Compliance & Airworthiness
Division, Aircraft Certification Service.
[FR Doc. 2020–26422 Filed 11–30–20; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE 4910–13–P
DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION
Federal Aviation Administration
14 CFR Part 71
[Docket No. FAA–2020–0701; Airspace
Docket No. 20–ASO–19]
RIN 2120–AA66
Establishment of Class D and Class E
Airspace and Amendment of Class E
Airspace; Nashville, TN
Federal Aviation
Administration (FAA), DOT.
ACTION: Final rule.
AGENCY:
This action establishes Class
D and Class E airspace designated as an
extension to Class D or E surface area,
and amends Class E airspace extending
upward from 700 feet above the surface
for John C. Tune Airport, Nashville, TN,
as a new air traffic control tower shall
service the airport. This action also
updates the geographic coordinates of
the airport, as well as Music City
SUMMARY:
PO 00000
Frm 00010
Fmt 4700
Sfmt 4700
Executive Airport, (formerly Sumner
County Regional Airport), Lebanon
Municipal Airport, and Murfreesboro
Municipal Airport. In addition, this
action establishes Class E airspace
extending upward from 700 feet above
the surface for Vanderbilt University
Hospital Heliport, as instrument
approach procedures have been
designed for the heliport. Controlled
airspace is necessary for the safety and
management of instrument flight rules
(IFR) operations in the area.
DATES: Effective 0901 UTC, June 17,
2021. The Director of the Federal
Register approves this incorporation by
reference action under Title 1 Code of
Federal Regulations part 51, subject to
the annual revision of FAA Order
7400.11 and publication of conforming
amendments.
ADDRESSES: FAA Order 7400.11E,
Airspace Designations and Reporting
Points, and subsequent amendments can
be viewed online at https://
www.faa.gov/air_traffic/publications/.
For further information, you can contact
the Airspace Policy Group, Federal
Aviation Administration, 800
Independence Avenue SW, Washington,
DC 20591; Telephone: (202) 267–8783.
The Order is also available for
inspection at the National Archives and
Records Administration (NARA). For
information on the availability of FAA
Order 7400.11E at NARA, email
fedreg.legal@nara.gov or go to https://
www.archives.gov/federal-register/cfr/
ibr-locations.html.
FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: John
Fornito, Operations Support Group,
Eastern Service Center, Federal Aviation
Administration, 1701 Columbia Ave.,
College Park, GA 30337; Telephone
(404) 305–6364.
SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION:
Authority for This Rulemaking
The FAA’s authority to issue rule
regarding aviation safety is found in
Title 49 of the United States Code.
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. This rulemaking is
promulgated under the authority
described in Subtitle VII, Part A,
Subpart I, Section 40103. Under that
section, the FAA is charged with
prescribing regulations to assign the use
of airspace necessary to ensure the
safety of aircraft and the efficient use of
airspace. This regulation is within the
scope of that authority as it amends
Class E airspace in Nashville, TN to
support IFR operations in the area.
E:\FR\FM\01DER1.SGM
01DER1
]]>Agencies
[Federal Register Volume 85, Number 231 (Tuesday, December 1, 2020)]
[Rules and Regulations]
[Pages 76955-76958]
From the Federal Register Online via the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]
[FR Doc No: 2020-26422]
-----------------------------------------------------------------------
DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION
Federal Aviation Administration
14 CFR Part 39
[Docket No. FAA-2020-1027; Project Identifier MCAI-2020-01375-R;
Amendment 39-21333; AD 2020-24-03]
RIN 2120-AA64
Airworthiness Directives; Airbus Helicopters
AGENCY: Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), Department of
Transportation (DOT).
ACTION: Final rule; request for comments.
-----------------------------------------------------------------------
SUMMARY: The FAA is adopting a new airworthiness directive (AD) for
Airbus Helicopters Model AS350B, AS350BA, AS350B1, AS350B2, AS350D,
AS355E, AS355F, AS355F1, and AS355F2 helicopters. This AD requires
testing the UP/DOWN switches of a certain part-numbered DUNLOP cyclic
stick grip, installing a placard, and revising the existing Rotorcraft
Flight Manual (RFM) for your helicopter, or removing the DUNLOP cyclic
stick grip. This AD was prompted by an inadvertent activation of the
rescue hoist cable cutter. The actions of this AD are intended to
address an unsafe condition on these products.
DATES: This AD becomes effective December 16, 2020.
The Director of the Federal Register approved the incorporation by
reference of certain documents listed in this AD as of December 16,
2020.
The FAA must receive comments on this AD by January 15, 2021.
ADDRESSES: You may send comments by any of the following methods:
Federal eRulemaking Docket: Go to https://www.regulations.gov. Follow the online instructions for sending your
comments electronically.
Fax: 202-493-2251.
[[Page 76956]]
Mail: Send comments to the U.S. Department of
Transportation, Docket Operations, M-30, West Building Ground Floor,
Room W12-140, 1200 New Jersey Avenue SE, Washington, DC 20590-0001.
Hand Delivery: Deliver to the ``Mail'' address between 9
a.m. and 5 p.m., Monday through Friday, except Federal holidays.
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-
1027; or in person at Docket Operations between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m.,
Monday through Friday, except Federal holidays. The AD docket contains
this AD, the European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) AD, any
service information that is incorporated by reference, any comments
received, and other information. The street address for Docket
Operations is listed above. Comments will be available in the AD docket
shortly after receipt.
For service information identified in this final rule, contact
Airbus Helicopters, 2701 N Forum Drive, Grand Prairie, TX 75052;
telephone 972-641-0000 or 800-232-0323; fax 972-641-3775; or at https://www.airbus.com/helicopters/services/technical-support.html. You may
view the referenced service information at the FAA, Office of the
Regional Counsel, Southwest Region, 10101 Hillwood Pkwy., Room 6N-321,
Fort Worth, TX 76177. It is also available on the internet at https://www.regulations.gov by searching for and locating Docket No. FAA-2020-
1027.
FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Daniel E. Moore, Aviation Safety
Engineer, Regulations & Policy Section, Rotorcraft Standards Branch,
FAA, 10101 Hillwood Pkwy., Fort Worth, TX 76177; telephone 817-222-
5110; email [email protected].
SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION:
Comments Invited
The FAA invites you to send any written data, views, or arguments
about this final rule. Send your comments to an address listed under
ADDRESSES. Include the docket number FAA-2020-1027 and Project
Identifier MCAI-2020-01375-R at the beginning of your comments. The
most helpful comments reference a specific portion of the final rule,
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 final rule 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 final rule.
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 AD 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 AD, 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 AD. Submissions containing CBI should be sent to Daniel
E. Moore, Aviation Safety Engineer, Regulations & Policy Section,
Rotorcraft Standards Branch, FAA, 10101 Hillwood Pkwy., Fort Worth, TX
76177; telephone 817-222-5110; email [email protected]. Any
commentary that the FAA receives which is not specifically designated
as CBI will be placed in the public docket for this rulemaking.
Discussion
EASA, which is the Technical Agent for the Member States of the
European Union, has issued EASA Emergency AD No. 2020-0217-E, dated
October 6, 2020, to correct an unsafe condition for Airbus Helicopters
(AH), formerly Eurocopter, Eurocopter France, Aerospatiale, Model AS
350 B, AS 350 BA, AS 350 B1, AS 350 B2, AS 350 D, AS 355 E, AS 355 F,
AS 355 F1, and AS 355 F2 helicopters. EASA advises of a report of an
unintended release of the rescue hoist hook on a Model AS 350 B2
helicopter during a ground check. The operator was using the UP/DOWN
switches for rescue hoist control, installed on DUNLOP cyclic stick
grip part number (P/N) AC66444, when the hoist's electrically-actuated
cable cutter function activated. EASA states that this condition, if
not corrected, could lead to further events of inadvertent activation
of the rescue hoist cable cutter function and consequent detachment of
an external load or person from the helicopter hoist, possibly
resulting in personal injury or injury to persons on the ground.
To address this potential unsafe condition, Airbus Helicopters
published Emergency Alert Service Bulletin (EASB) Nos. 01.00.58 and
01.00.72, each Revision 0 and dated October 1, 2020, to introduce an
operational limitation.
Accordingly, the EASA AD requires installing a dedicated placard in
the cockpit and amending the applicable RFM to prohibit the in-flight
use of the UP/DOWN switches for rescue hoist control installed on
DUNLOP cyclic stick grip P/N AC66444. EASA states its AD is considered
an interim action and further AD action may follow.
FAA's Determination
These helicopters have been approved by EASA and are approved for
operation in the United States. Pursuant to the FAA's bilateral
agreement with the European Union, EASA has notified the FAA of the
unsafe condition described in its AD. The FAA is issuing this AD after
evaluating all information provided by EASA and determining the unsafe
condition exists and is likely to exist or develop on other helicopters
of these same type designs.
Related Service Information Under 1 CFR Part 51
The FAA has reviewed Airbus Helicopters EASB No. 01.00.58 for Model
AS355-series helicopters and Airbus Helicopters EASB No. 01.00.72 for
Model AS350-series helicopters, each Revision 0 and dated October 1,
2020, which are co-published as one document. This service information
specifies installing a placard and revising the Flight Manual to
prohibit the use of the UP/DOWN switches of the DUNLOP cyclic stick
grip manufacturer P/N (MP/N) AC66444.
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.
AD Requirements
This AD requires accomplishing a ground test of the UP/DOWN
switches of DUNLOP cyclic stick grip MP/N AC66444 for proper function
before each hoist operation. If there is any uncommanded hoist action,
this AD requires removing the DUNLOP cyclic stick grip from service.
If DUNLOP cyclic stick grip MP/N AC66444 is installed, before the
next hoist operation, this AD requires installing a placard and
revising the existing RFM for your helicopter to prohibit the use of
the UP/DOWN
[[Page 76957]]
switches of the DUNLOP cyclic stick grip. Alternatively, this AD allows
removing DUNLOP cyclic stick grip MP/N AC66444, however before the
DUNLOP cyclic stick grip is re-installed, this AD requires
accomplishing the ground test of the UP/DOWN switches and installing
the placard and revising the existing RFM for your helicopter. This AD
also prohibits installing an affected DUNLOP cyclic stick grip unless
the ground testing of the UP/DOWN switches has been accomplished, the
placard has been installed, and the existing RFM for your helicopter
has been revised.
Differences Between This AD and the EASA AD
The EASA AD applies to all Airbus Helicopters Model AS 350 B, AS
350 BA, AS 350 B1, AS 350 B2, AS 350 D, AS 355 E, AS 355 F, AS 355 F1,
and AS 355 F2 helicopters, whereas this AD applies to Airbus
Helicopters Model AS350B, AS350BA, AS350B1, AS350B2, AS350D, AS355E,
AS355F, AS355F1, and AS355F2 helicopters with DUNLOP cyclic stick grip
MP/N AC66444 with UP/DOWN switches for rescue hoist control installed
instead. This AD requires accomplishing a ground test of the UP/DOWN
switches for proper function before each hoist operation, whereas the
EASA AD does not.
Interim Action
The FAA considers this AD to be an interim action. If final action
is later identified, the FAA might consider further rulemaking then.
Regulatory Flexibility Act
The requirements of the Regulatory Flexibility Act (RFA) do not
apply when an agency finds good cause pursuant to 5 U.S.C. 553 to adopt
a rule without prior notice and comment. Because FAA has determined
that it has good cause to adopt this rule without prior notice and
comment, RFA analysis is not required.
Costs of Compliance
The FAA estimates that this AD affects 390 helicopters of U.S.
Registry. Labor rates are estimated at $85 per work-hour. Based on
these numbers, the FAA estimates that operators may incur the following
costs in order to comply with this AD.
Accomplishing a ground test of the UP/DOWN switches for proper
function takes a minimal amount of time for a nominal cost. Installing
a placard and revising the existing RFM for your helicopter takes about
0.5 work-hour for an estimated cost of $43 per helicopter and $16,770
for the U.S. fleet. Alternatively, replacing the affected DUNLOP cyclic
stick grip takes about 2.5 work-hours and parts cost about $2,500 for
an estimated cost of $2,713.
FAA's Justification and Determination of the Effective Date
Section 553(b)(3)(B) of the Administrative Procedure Act (5 U.S.C.)
authorizes agencies to dispense with notice and comment procedures for
rules when the agency, for ``good cause'' finds that those procedures
are ``impracticable, unnecessary, or contrary to the public interest.''
Under this section, an agency, upon finding good cause, may issue a
final rule without seeking comment prior to the rulemaking.
An unsafe condition exists that requires the immediate adoption of
this AD without providing an opportunity for public comments prior to
adoption. The FAA has found that the risk to the flying public
justifies waiving notice and comment prior to adoption of this rule
because there are required corrective actions that must be completed
before the next hoist operation. Therefore, notice and opportunity for
prior public comment are impracticable and contrary to public interest
pursuant to 5 U.S.C. 553(b)(3)(B). In addition, for the reasons stated
above, the FAA finds that good cause exists pursuant to 5 U.S.C. 553(d)
for making this amendment effective in less than 30 days.
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 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, I certify that this AD:
1. Is not a ``significant regulatory action'' under Executive Order
12866, and
2. Will not affect intrastate aviation in Alaska.
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:
2020-24-03 Airbus Helicopters: Amendment 39-21333; Docket No. FAA-
2020-1027; Project Identifier MCAI-2020-01375-R.
(a) Applicability
This airworthiness directive (AD) applies to Airbus Helicopters
Model AS350B, AS350BA, AS350B1, AS350B2, AS350D, AS355E, AS355F,
AS355F1, and AS355F2 helicopters, certificated in any category, with
DUNLOP cyclic stick grip manufacturer part number AC66444 with UP/
DOWN switches for rescue hoist control installed.
(b) Unsafe Condition
This AD defines the unsafe condition as inadvertent activation
of the rescue hoist cable cutter and consequent detachment of an
external load or person from the helicopter hoist. This condition
could result in personal injury or injury to persons on the ground.
(c) Effective Date
This AD becomes effective December 16, 2020.
(d) Compliance
You are responsible for performing each action required by this
AD within the specified compliance time unless it has already been
accomplished prior to that time.
(e) Required Actions
(1) Before each hoist operation, accomplish a ground test of the
UP/DOWN switches for proper function. If there is any
[[Page 76958]]
uncommanded hoist action, before further flight, remove the DUNLOP
cyclic stick grip from service.
(2) Before the next hoist operation:
(i) Install a placard in full view of the pilot by following the
Accomplishment Instructions, paragraph 3.B., of Airbus Helicopters
Emergency Alert Service Bulletin (EASB) No. 01.00.58 or 01.00.72,
each Revision 0 and dated October 1, 2020 (EASB 01.00.58 or
01.00.72), as applicable to your helicopter.
(ii) Revise the existing Rotorcraft Flight Manual (RFM) for your
helicopter by inserting the Limitations page applicable to your
helicopter model and version from Appendix 4.C. through L, of EASB
01.00.58 or 01.00.72. Inserting a different document with
information identical to that in Appendix 4.C. through L., of EASB
01.00.58 or 01.00.72, as applicable to your helicopter model and
version, is acceptable for compliance with the requirement of this
paragraph.
(3) After complying with paragraph (e)(2) of this AD, each time
the DUNLOP cyclic stick grip that is identified in paragraph (a) of
this AD is removed from the helicopter, you may remove the placard
and RFM revision that are required by paragraphs (e)(2)(i) and (ii)
of this AD. Before the DUNLOP cyclic stick grip is re-installed, you
must re-install the placard and RFM revision that are required by
paragraphs (e)(2)(i) and (ii) of this AD.
(4) As of the effective date of this AD, do not install a DUNLOP
cyclic stick grip that is identified in paragraph (a) of this AD
unless the requirements of paragraphs (e)(1) and (2) of this AD have
been accomplished.
(f) Alternative Methods of Compliance (AMOCs)
(1) The Manager, Rotorcraft Standards Branch, FAA, may approve
AMOCs for this AD. Send your proposal to: Daniel E. Moore, Aviation
Safety Engineer, Regulations & Policy Section, Rotorcraft Standards
Branch, FAA, 10101 Hillwood Pkwy., Fort Worth, TX 76177; telephone
817-222-5110; email [email protected].
(2) For operations conducted under a 14 CFR part 119 operating
certificate or under 14 CFR part 91, subpart K, the FAA suggests
that you notify your principal inspector, or lacking a principal
inspector, the manager of the local flight standards district office
or certificate holding district office, before operating any
aircraft complying with this AD through an AMOC.
(g) Additional Information
The subject of this AD is addressed in European Union Aviation
Safety Agency (EASA) AD No. 2020-0217-E, dated October 6, 2020. You
may view the EASA AD on the internet at https://www.regulations.gov
by searching for and locating it in Docket No. FAA-2020-1027.
(h) Subject
Joint Aircraft Service Component (JASC) Code: 6700, Rotorcraft
Flight Control.
(i) Material Incorporated by Reference
(1) The Director of the Federal Register approved the
incorporation by reference of the service information listed in this
paragraph under 5 U.S.C. 552(a) and 1 CFR part 51.
(2) You must use this service information as applicable to do
the actions required by this AD, unless the AD specifies otherwise.
(i) Airbus Helicopters Emergency Alert Service Bulletin (EASB)
No. 01.00.58, Revision 0, dated October 1, 2020.
(ii) Airbus Helicopters EASB No. 01.00.72, Revision 0, dated
October 1, 2020.
Note 1 to paragraph (i)(2): Airbus Helicopters EASB Nos.
01.00.58 and 01.00.72, each Revision 0 and dated October 1, 2020,
are co-published as one document.
(3) For service information identified in this AD, contact
Airbus Helicopters, 2701 N Forum Drive, Grand Prairie, TX 75052;
telephone 972-641-0000 or 800-232-0323; fax 972-641-3775; or at
https://www.airbus.com/helicopters/services/technical-support.html.
(4) You may view this service information at the FAA, Office of
the Regional Counsel, Southwest Region, 10101 Hillwood Pkwy., Room
6N-321, Fort Worth, TX 76177. For information on the availability of
this material at the FAA, call 817-222-5110.
(5) You may view this service information that is incorporated
by reference at the National Archives and Records Administration
(NARA). For information on the availability of this material at
NARA, email [email protected], or go to: https://www.archives.gov/federal-register/cfr/ibr-locations.html.
Issued on November 12, 2020.
Lance T. Gant,
Director, Compliance & Airworthiness Division, Aircraft Certification
Service.
[FR Doc. 2020-26422 Filed 11-30-20; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE 4910-13-P
