Airworthiness Directives; Aerostar Aircraft Corporation Airplanes, 82307-82310 [2020-27894]
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Federal Register / Vol. 85, No. 244 / Friday, December 18, 2020 / Rules and Regulations
as Appendix to SB EC135–67A–017 Revision
4) to Airbus Helicopters Alert Service
Bulletin ASB EC135–67A–017, Revision 4,
dated April 3, 2017, and the tail rotor control
rod as required by paragraph (j) of this AD.
15357 (73 FR 6008, February 1, 2008),
and
■ b. Adding the following new AD:
2020–26–03 Airbus Helicopters
Deutschland GmbH: Amendment 39–
21358; Docket No. FAA–2020–0572;
Product Identifier 2017–SW–056–AD.
(a) Effective Date
This airworthiness directive (AD) becomes
effective January 22, 2021.
(b) Affected ADs
This AD replaces AD 2007–26–51,
Amendment 39–15357 (73 FR 6008, February
1, 2008) (AD 2007–26–51).
(c) Applicability
This AD applies to Airbus Helicopters
Deutschland GmbH Model EC135P1,
EC135T1, EC135P2, EC135T2, EC135P2+,
EC135T2+, EC135P3, and EC135T3
helicopters, certificated in any category, all
serial numbers.
(d) Subject
Joint Aircraft Service Component (JASC)
Code: 6700, Rotorcraft Flight Control.
(e) Reason
This AD was prompted by an accident
involving the failure of a tail rotor control
rod. The FAA is issuing this AD to address
failure of a tail rotor control rod and
subsequent loss of control of the helicopter.
(f) Compliance
You are responsible for performing each
action required by this AD within the
specified compliance time unless it has
already been accomplished prior to that time.
(g) Definitions
(1) Group 1: Helicopters that, on the
effective date of this AD, have a tail rotor
control rod installed having part number (P/
N) L672M2005207.
(2) Group 2: Helicopters that, on the
effective date of this AD, do not have a tail
rotor control rod installed having P/N
L672M2005207.
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(h) Ball Pivot Inspection
Within 50 hours time-in-service after the
effective date of this AD: Inspect the ball
pivot, P/N 92–201–00 and P/N 92–207–00,
for damage and freedom of movement, in
accordance with step 3.C.(3) or step 3.D.(3),
as applicable, of the Accomplishment
Instructions of the Appendix (watermarked
as Appendix to SB EC135–67A–017 Revision
4) to Airbus Helicopters Alert Service
Bulletin ASB EC135–67A–017, Revision 4,
dated April 3, 2017. For purposes of this
inspection, damage to the ball pivot may be
indicated by cracks, missing hardware, loose
bearings, or play.
(i) Corrective Action
If, during the inspection required by
paragraph (h) of this AD, there is any damage
on any ball pivot or the ball pivot cannot be
moved: Before further flight, replace the ball
pivot in accordance with step 3.C.(3) or step
3.D.(3), as applicable, of the Accomplishment
Instructions of the Appendix (watermarked
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(j) Tail Rotor Control Rod Replacement
Group 1: Unless already done as required
by paragraph (i) of this AD, within 50 hours
time-in-service after the effective date of this
AD, replace the tail rotor control rod having
P/N L672M2005207 with a tail rotor control
rod having P/N L672M2006101.
Note 1 to paragraph (j): Guidance for
replacing the tail rotor control rod can be
found in Eurocopter Service Bulletin EC135–
67–018, Revision 01, dated May 15, 2008.
(k) Parts Installation Prohibition
(1) Group 1: After modification of a
helicopter as required by paragraphs (i) or (j)
of this AD, no person may install on any
helicopter a tail rotor control rod having P/
N L672M2005207.
(2) Group 2: As of the effective date of this
AD, no person may install on any helicopter
a tail rotor control rod having P/N
L672M2005207.
(l) Credit for Previous Actions
This paragraph provides credit for the
inspection and ball pivot replacements
required by paragraphs (h) and (i) of this AD,
if those actions were performed before the
effective date of this AD using Eurocopter
Alert Service Bulletin EC135–67A–017,
Revision 03, dated July 26, 2010.
(m) Special Flight Permit
Special flight permits, as described in 14
CFR 21.197 and 21.199, are not allowed.
(n) No Reporting Requirement
Although the Appendix (watermarked as
Appendix to SB EC135–67A–017 Revision 4)
to Airbus Helicopters Alert Service Bulletin
ASB EC135–67A–017, Revision 4, dated
April 3, 2017, specifies to contact the
manufacturer, this AD does not include that
requirement.
(o) Alternative Methods of Compliance
(AMOCs)
(1) The Manager, Strategic Policy
Rotorcraft, FAA, may approve AMOCs for
this AD. Send your proposal to: David
Hatfield, Aviation Safety Engineer, Aircraft
Systems Section, Technical Innovation
Policy Branch, FAA, 10101 Hillwood Pkwy.,
Fort Worth, TX 76177; telephone 817–222–
5116; email 9-ASW-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.
(p) Related Information
(1) The subject of this AD is addressed in
European Aviation Safety Agency (now
European Union Aviation Safety Agency)
(EASA) AD No. 2010–0227R1, dated April 7,
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82307
2017. This EASA AD may be found in the AD
docket on the internet at https://
www.regulations.gov by searching for and
locating Docket No. FAA–2020–0572.
(2) For service information identified in
this AD, contact Airbus Helicopters, 2701 N
Forum Drive, Grand Prairie, TX 75052;
telephone 972–641–0000 or 800–232–0323;
fax 972–641–3775; or at https://
www.airbus.com/helicopters/services/
technical-support.html. You may view a copy
of the service information at the FAA, Office
of the Regional Counsel, Southwest Region,
10101 Hillwood Pkwy., Room 6N–321, Fort
Worth, TX 76177.
(q) Material Incorporated by Reference
(1) The Director of the Federal Register
approved the incorporation by reference of
the service information listed in this
paragraph under 5 U.S.C. 552(a) and 1 CFR
part 51.
(2) You must use this service information
as applicable to do the actions required by
this AD, unless the AD specifies otherwise.
(i) Airbus Helicopters Alert Service
Bulletin ASB EC135–67A–017, Revision 4,
dated April 3, 2017.
(ii) [Reserved]
(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 December 8, 2020.
Lance T. Gant,
Director, Compliance & Airworthiness
Division, Aircraft Certification Service.
[FR Doc. 2020–27808 Filed 12–17–20; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE 4910–13–P
DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION
Federal Aviation Administration
14 CFR Part 39
[Docket No. FAA–2020–0574; Product
Identifier 2019–CE–015–AD; Amendment
39–21340; AD 2020–24–10]
RIN 2120–AA64
Airworthiness Directives; Aerostar
Aircraft Corporation Airplanes
Federal Aviation
Administration (FAA), DOT.
AGENCY:
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82308
ACTION:
Federal Register / Vol. 85, No. 244 / Friday, December 18, 2020 / Rules and Regulations
Final rule.
The FAA is adopting a new
airworthiness directive (AD) for all
Aerostar Aircraft Corporation (Aerostar)
Model PA–60–601P (Aerostar 601P),
PA–60–602P (Aerostar 602P), and PA–
60–700P (Aerostar 700P) airplanes. This
AD was prompted by reports of
corrosion on the elevator and aileron
balance tubes. This AD requires
repetitively inspecting the elevator and
aileron balance tubes for corrosion and
rust and replacing the tube. The FAA is
issuing this AD to address the unsafe
condition on these products.
DATES: This AD is effective January 22,
2021.
The Director of the Federal Register
approved the incorporation by reference
of a certain publication listed in this AD
as of January 22, 2021.
ADDRESSES: For service information
identified in this final rule, contact
Aerostar Aircraft Corporation, 2265
West Aerostar Way, Hayden Lake, ID
83835; telephone: (208) 762–0338; fax:
(208) 762–8349; internet: https://
aerostaraircraft.com. You may review
this referenced service information at
the FAA, Airworthiness Products
Section, Operational Safety Branch, 901
Locust, Kansas City, Missouri 64106.
For information on the availability of
this material at the FAA, call (816) 329–
4148. It is also available on the internet
at https://www.regulations.gov by
searching for and locating Docket No.
FAA–2020–0574.
SUMMARY:
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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–
0574; or in person at Docket Operations
between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m., Monday
through Friday, except Federal holidays.
The AD docket contains this final rule,
any comments received, and other
information. The address for Docket
Operations is U.S. Department of
Transportation, Docket Operations, M–
30, West Building Ground Floor, Room
W12–140, 1200 New Jersey Avenue SE,
Washington, DC 20590.
FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT:
David Herron, Aerospace Engineer,
Seattle ACO Branch, FAA, 2200 S 216th
St., Des Moines, WA 98198; phone:
(206) 231–3544; email: david.herron@
faa.gov.
SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION:
Discussion
The FAA issued a notice of proposed
rulemaking (NPRM) to amend 14 CFR
part 39 by adding an AD that would
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apply to all Aerostar Model PA–60–
601P (Aerostar 601P), PA–60–602P
(Aerostar 602P), and PA–60–700P
(Aerostar 700P) airplanes. The NPRM
published in the Federal Register on
June 26, 2020 (85 FR 38338). The NPRM
was prompted by reports of corrosion on
the elevator and aileron balance tubes,
which may be hidden by rubber boots.
In the NPRM, the FAA proposed to
require repetitively inspecting the
elevator and aileron balance tubes for
corrosion (pitting and flaking) and rust
(discoloration) and replacing the tube.
The FAA is issuing this AD to detect
corrosion on the elevator and aileron
balance tubes. The unsafe condition, if
not addressed, could result in failure of
the aileron and elevator balance tubes,
jamming of the aileron and/or elevator
balance tubes, and loss of control of the
airplane.
Comments
The FAA gave the public the
opportunity to participate in developing
this final rule. The FAA received
comments from three commenters. The
commenters were Yankee Aviation
Services, Inc. and two individuals. The
following presents the comments
received on the NPRM and the FAA’s
response to each comment.
Request To Withdraw NPRM
An individual commenter requested
that the NPRM be withdrawn. The
commenter stated there is insufficient
data supporting the unsafe condition
and questioned the motive for the
proposed AD, as Aerostar would benefit
financially from the sale of parts needed
to comply with the proposed
requirements. The commenter observed
that Aerostar’s service information did
not provide details concerning the
number, source, or content of the
reported events of corrosion and the
degree to which the unsafe condition is
present in the fleet of Aerostar
airplanes. The commenter further stated
that the service information and the
traditional diligence of the Aerostar
owner community are sufficient to
address the unsafe condition.
The FAA disagrees. The FAA issues
an AD after finding that an unsafe
condition exists or is likely to develop
in aircraft of a particular type design.
For this AD, the FAA reviewed the
reports received from Aerostar and the
effects that failure of these tubes could
have on an airplane. Aerostar initially
discovered corrosion on the elevator
and aileron balance tubes while
conducting maintenance on an airplane.
This discovery prompted Aerostar to
inspect the other four airplanes in its
facility, which resulted in the
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identification of three additional
incidents of corrosion on elevator and
aileron balance tubes. The FAA’s
analysis of this data determined an
unsafe condition exists and warrants
corrective action through an AD. To the
extent Aerostar has issued service
information on this issue, while an
operator may incorporate into its
maintenance program the inspections in
the manufacturer’s service bulletin, not
all operators are required to do so. In
order for these inspections to become
mandatory, and to correct the unsafe
condition identified in the NPRM, the
FAA must issue an AD.
The FAA did not change this AD
based on this comment.
Request To Remove Requirement To
Replace All Tubes
All three commenters requested that
the FAA remove the proposed
requirement to replace the elevator and
aileron balance tubes even if no
corrosion and rust is found during the
inspection. Two commenters noted that
requiring the replacement of parts found
to be airworthy does not promote safety
and instead subjects owners to
unnecessary expenses. Yankee Aviation
Services, Inc., stated the new tubes are
the same as those being replaced and do
not have corrosion proofing.
The FAA disagrees. The FAA
determined that the root cause of the
rust and corrosion on the elevator and
aileron balance tubes is likely a
deficient corrosion protection
specification in the initial design and
manufacture of these tubes. The
commenter is not correct that the new
tubes are the same as those being
replaced. The existing balance tubes are
part number (P/N) 26003–003, Revision
L or earlier, while the new replacement
balance tubes are P/N 26003–003,
Revision M or later, as specified in the
service information. The Revision M
and later balance tubes have been
manufactured with corrosion protection
(Zinc Chromate primer) that was not
applied on the earlier versions of the
tubes. The FAA did not change this AD
based on these comments.
Request To Allow Part Repair Instead
of Replacement
Yankee Aviation Services, Inc.,
requested the FAA revise the proposed
AD to allow the repair of tubes with rust
instead of replacement. The commenter
stated that a tube with light rust and a
wall thickness of 0.049 inch could be
repaired by being wire brushed and
painted with an epoxy paint.
The FAA disagrees. Repairing the
tubes without replacement would not
address the root cause of the rust and
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Federal Register / Vol. 85, No. 244 / Friday, December 18, 2020 / Rules and Regulations
corrosion, which the FAA determined is
likely a deficient corrosion protection
specification in the initial design and
manufacture of these tubes. The
Revision M or later balance tubes have
been manufactured with corrosion
protection (Zinc Chromate primer) that
was not applied on the earlier versions
of the tubes. The commenter’s request
would allow the tubes to remain
installed on the airplane without this
additional corrosion protection. The
FAA did not change this AD based on
this comment.
Conclusion
The FAA reviewed the relevant data,
considered the comments received, and
determined that air safety and the
public interest require adopting this AD
as proposed. Accordingly, the FAA is
issuing this AD to address the unsafe
condition on these products.
Related Service Information Under 1
CFR part 51
The FAA reviewed Aerostar Service
Bulletin SB600–138, dated August 30,
2018. The service bulletin contains
procedures for repetitively inspecting
the elevator and aileron balance tubes
for corrosion (pitting and flaking) and
rust (discoloration) and replacing the
tubes at a specified time and repetitively
if necessary. This service information is
reasonably available because the
82309
interested parties have access to it
through their normal course of business
or by the means identified in the
ADDRESSES section.
Differences Between This AD and the
Service Information
This AD does not require completing
the reply card and returning it to
Aerostar as specified in Step 13 of Part
II of the service information.
Costs of Compliance
The FAA estimates that this AD
affects 404 airplanes of U.S. registry.
The FAA estimates the following
costs to comply with this AD:
ESTIMATED COSTS
Cost on U.S.
operators
Action
Labor cost
Parts cost
Cost per product
Inspect elevator and aileron balance
tubes.
Replace elevator and aileron balance
tubes.
1 work-hour × $85 per hour = $85 per
inspection cycle.
8 work-hours × $85 per hour = $680 ..
Not Applicable ......
$85 per inspection
cycle..
$1,867 ...................
The FAA estimates the following
costs to do any necessary replacements
that are required based on the results of
$1,187 ...................
the repetitive inspections, assuming
separate replacement intervals. The
FAA has no way of determining the
$34,340 per inspection cycle.
$754,268.
number of airplanes that might need
these replacements:
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ON-CONDITION COSTS
Action
Labor cost
Replace elevator balance tube .....................................
Replace aileron balance tube .......................................
8 work-hours × $85 per hour = $680 ...........................
8 work-hours × $85 per hour = $680 ...........................
Authority for This Rulemaking
Regulatory Findings
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.
This AD will not have federalism
implications under Executive Order
13132. This AD will not have a
substantial direct effect on the States, on
the relationship between the national
government and the States, or on the
distribution of power and
responsibilities among the various
levels of government.
For the reasons discussed above, I
certify that this AD:
(1) Is not a ‘‘significant regulatory
action’’ under Executive Order 12866,
(2) Will not affect intrastate aviation
in Alaska, and
(3) Will not have a significant
economic impact, positive or negative,
on a substantial number of small entities
under the criteria of the Regulatory
Flexibility Act.
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List of Subjects in 14 CFR Part 39
Air transportation, Aircraft, Aviation
safety, Incorporation by reference,
Safety.
PO 00000
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Parts cost
Cost per
product
$594
594
$1,274
1,274
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:
■
2020–24–10 Aerostar Aircraft Corporation:
Amendment 39–21340; Docket No.
FAA–2020–0574; Product Identifier
2019–CE–015–AD.
(a) Effective Date
This airworthiness directive (AD) is
effective January 22, 2021.
(b) Affected ADs
None.
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Federal Register / Vol. 85, No. 244 / Friday, December 18, 2020 / Rules and Regulations
(c) Applicability
This AD applies to Aerostar Aircraft
Corporation Model PA–60–601P (Aerostar
601P), PA–60–602P (Aerostar 602P), and PA–
60–700P (Aerostar 700P) airplanes, all serial
numbers, certificated in any category.
(d) Subject
Air Transport Association (ATA) of
America Code 27; Flight Controls.
(e) Unsafe Condition
This AD was prompted by reports of
corrosion on the elevator and aileron balance
tubes. The FAA is issuing this AD to detect
corrosion on the elevator and aileron balance
tubes. The unsafe condition, if not addressed,
could result in failure of the aileron and
elevator balance tubes, jamming of the
aileron and/or elevator balance tubes, and
loss of control of the airplane.
(f) Compliance
Comply with this AD within the
compliance times specified, unless already
done.
(g) Repetitive Inspections
Within 10 hours time-in-service after the
effective date of this AD, inspect the elevator
and aileron balance tubes for corrosion
(pitting and flaking) and rust (discoloration)
by following steps 1. through 3. of Part I
(Inspection) of the Instructions in Aerostar
Aircraft Corporation Service Bulletin SB600–
138, dated August 30, 2018 (Aerostar SB600–
138). For each tube replaced as required by
paragraph (h) of this AD, using a borescope,
repeat the inspection within 10 years after
replacing the tube and thereafter as follows:
(1) At intervals not to exceed 10 years as
long as no rust is found.
(2) At intervals not to exceed 2 years if
only rust is found (without any signs of
corrosion).
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(h) Replacements
At the following compliance times, replace
each elevator and aileron balance tube by
following Part II (Replacement) of the
Instructions in Aerostar SB600–138, except
you are not required to report information to
the manufacturer:
(1) Before further flight if corrosion or rust
is found (inside or outside the tubes) during
the initial inspection required by paragraph
(g) of this AD.
(2) At the next 100-hour inspection or at
the next annual inspection, whichever occurs
first, if no corrosion and no rust is found
(inside or outside the tubes) during the initial
inspection required by paragraph (g) of this
AD.
(3) Before further flight if corrosion is
found (inside or outside the tubes) during
any repetitive inspection required by
paragraph (g) of this AD.
(i) Alternative Methods of Compliance
(AMOCs)
(1) The Manager, Seattle 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
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information directly to the manager of the
certification office, send it to the attention of
the person identified in paragraph (j) of this
AD. Information may be emailed to: 9-ANMSeattle-ACO-AMOC-Requests@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.
(j) Related Information
For more information about this AD,
contact David Herron, Aerospace Engineer,
Seattle ACO Branch, FAA, 2200 S 216th St,
Des Moines, WA 98198; phone: (206) 231–
3544; email: david.herron@faa.gov.
(k) 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) Aerostar Aircraft Corporation Service
Bulletin SB600–138, dated August 30, 2018.
(ii) [Reserved]
(3) For service information identified in
this AD, contact Aerostar Aircraft
Corporation, 2265 West Aerostar Way,
Hayden Lake, ID 83835; telephone: (208)
762–0338; fax: (208) 762–8349; internet:
https://aerostaraircraft.com.
(4) You may view this service information
at the FAA, Airworthiness Products Section,
Operational Safety Branch, 901 Locust,
Kansas City, Missouri 64106. For information
on the availability of this material at the
FAA, call (816) 329–4148.
(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 December 15, 2020.
Gaetano A. Sciortino,
Deputy Director for Strategic Initiatives,
Compliance & Airworthiness Division,
Aircraft Certification Service.
[FR Doc. 2020–27894 Filed 12–17–20; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE 4910–13–P
DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION
Federal Aviation Administration
14 CFR Part 95
[Docket No. 31345; Amdt. No. 556]
IFR Altitudes; Miscellaneous
Amendments
Federal Aviation
Administration (FAA), DOT.
ACTION: Final rule.
AGENCY:
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This amendment adopts
miscellaneous amendments to the
required IFR (instrument flight rules)
altitudes and changeover points for
certain Federal airways, jet routes, or
direct routes for which a minimum or
maximum en route authorized IFR
altitude is prescribed. This regulatory
action is needed because of changes
occurring in the National Airspace
System. These changes are designed to
provide for the safe and efficient use of
the navigable airspace under instrument
conditions in the affected areas.
DATES: Effective 0901 UTC, December
31, 2020.
FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT:
Thomas J. Nichols, Flight Procedures
and Airspace Group, Flight
Technologies and Procedures Division,
Flight Standards Service, Federal
Aviation Administration. Mailing
Address: FAA Mike Monroney
Aeronautical Center, Flight Procedures
and Airspace Group, 6500 South
MacArthur Blvd., Registry Bldg. 29,
Room 104, Oklahoma City, OK 73125.
Telephone: (405) 954–4164.
SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: This
amendment to part 95 of the Federal
Aviation Regulations (14 CFR part 95)
amends, suspends, or revokes IFR
altitudes governing the operation of all
aircraft in flight over a specified route
or any portion of that route, as well as
the changeover points (COPs) for
Federal airways, jet routes, or direct
routes as prescribed in part 95.
SUMMARY:
The Rule
The specified IFR altitudes, when
used in conjunction with the prescribed
changeover points for those routes,
ensure navigation aid coverage that is
adequate for safe flight operations and
free of frequency interference. The
reasons and circumstances that create
the need for this amendment involve
matters of flight safety and operational
efficiency in the National Airspace
System, are related to published
aeronautical charts that are essential to
the user, and provide for the safe and
efficient use of the navigable airspace.
In addition, those various reasons or
circumstances require making this
amendment effective before the next
scheduled charting and publication date
of the flight information to assure its
timely availability to the user. The
effective date of this amendment reflects
those considerations. In view of the
close and immediate relationship
between these regulatory changes and
safety in air commerce, I find that notice
and public procedure before adopting
this amendment are impracticable and
contrary to the public interest and that
E:\FR\FM\18DER1.SGM
18DER1
]]>Agencies
[Federal Register Volume 85, Number 244 (Friday, December 18, 2020)]
[Rules and Regulations]
[Pages 82307-82310]
From the Federal Register Online via the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]
[FR Doc No: 2020-27894]
-----------------------------------------------------------------------
DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION
Federal Aviation Administration
14 CFR Part 39
[Docket No. FAA-2020-0574; Product Identifier 2019-CE-015-AD; Amendment
39-21340; AD 2020-24-10]
RIN 2120-AA64
Airworthiness Directives; Aerostar Aircraft Corporation Airplanes
AGENCY: Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), DOT.
[[Page 82308]]
ACTION: Final rule.
-----------------------------------------------------------------------
SUMMARY: The FAA is adopting a new airworthiness directive (AD) for all
Aerostar Aircraft Corporation (Aerostar) Model PA-60-601P (Aerostar
601P), PA-60-602P (Aerostar 602P), and PA-60-700P (Aerostar 700P)
airplanes. This AD was prompted by reports of corrosion on the elevator
and aileron balance tubes. This AD requires repetitively inspecting the
elevator and aileron balance tubes for corrosion and rust and replacing
the tube. The FAA is issuing this AD to address the unsafe condition on
these products.
DATES: This AD is effective January 22, 2021.
The Director of the Federal Register approved the incorporation by
reference of a certain publication listed in this AD as of January 22,
2021.
ADDRESSES: For service information identified in this final rule,
contact Aerostar Aircraft Corporation, 2265 West Aerostar Way, Hayden
Lake, ID 83835; telephone: (208) 762-0338; fax: (208) 762-8349;
internet: https://aerostaraircraft.com. You may review this referenced
service information at the FAA, Airworthiness Products Section,
Operational Safety Branch, 901 Locust, Kansas City, Missouri 64106. For
information on the availability of this material at the FAA, call (816)
329-4148. It is also available on the internet at https://www.regulations.gov by searching for and locating Docket No. FAA-2020-
0574.
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-
0574; or in person at Docket Operations between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m.,
Monday through Friday, except Federal holidays. The AD docket contains
this final rule, any comments received, and other information. The
address for Docket Operations is U.S. Department of Transportation,
Docket Operations, M-30, West Building Ground Floor, Room W12-140, 1200
New Jersey Avenue SE, Washington, DC 20590.
FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: David Herron, Aerospace Engineer,
Seattle ACO Branch, FAA, 2200 S 216th St., Des Moines, WA 98198; phone:
(206) 231-3544; email: [email protected].
SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION:
Discussion
The FAA issued a notice of proposed rulemaking (NPRM) to amend 14
CFR part 39 by adding an AD that would apply to all Aerostar Model PA-
60-601P (Aerostar 601P), PA-60-602P (Aerostar 602P), and PA-60-700P
(Aerostar 700P) airplanes. The NPRM published in the Federal Register
on June 26, 2020 (85 FR 38338). The NPRM was prompted by reports of
corrosion on the elevator and aileron balance tubes, which may be
hidden by rubber boots. In the NPRM, the FAA proposed to require
repetitively inspecting the elevator and aileron balance tubes for
corrosion (pitting and flaking) and rust (discoloration) and replacing
the tube.
The FAA is issuing this AD to detect corrosion on the elevator and
aileron balance tubes. The unsafe condition, if not addressed, could
result in failure of the aileron and elevator balance tubes, jamming of
the aileron and/or elevator balance tubes, and loss of control of the
airplane.
Comments
The FAA gave the public the opportunity to participate in
developing this final rule. The FAA received comments from three
commenters. The commenters were Yankee Aviation Services, Inc. and two
individuals. The following presents the comments received on the NPRM
and the FAA's response to each comment.
Request To Withdraw NPRM
An individual commenter requested that the NPRM be withdrawn. The
commenter stated there is insufficient data supporting the unsafe
condition and questioned the motive for the proposed AD, as Aerostar
would benefit financially from the sale of parts needed to comply with
the proposed requirements. The commenter observed that Aerostar's
service information did not provide details concerning the number,
source, or content of the reported events of corrosion and the degree
to which the unsafe condition is present in the fleet of Aerostar
airplanes. The commenter further stated that the service information
and the traditional diligence of the Aerostar owner community are
sufficient to address the unsafe condition.
The FAA disagrees. The FAA issues an AD after finding that an
unsafe condition exists or is likely to develop in aircraft of a
particular type design. For this AD, the FAA reviewed the reports
received from Aerostar and the effects that failure of these tubes
could have on an airplane. Aerostar initially discovered corrosion on
the elevator and aileron balance tubes while conducting maintenance on
an airplane. This discovery prompted Aerostar to inspect the other four
airplanes in its facility, which resulted in the identification of
three additional incidents of corrosion on elevator and aileron balance
tubes. The FAA's analysis of this data determined an unsafe condition
exists and warrants corrective action through an AD. To the extent
Aerostar has issued service information on this issue, while an
operator may incorporate into its maintenance program the inspections
in the manufacturer's service bulletin, not all operators are required
to do so. In order for these inspections to become mandatory, and to
correct the unsafe condition identified in the NPRM, the FAA must issue
an AD.
The FAA did not change this AD based on this comment.
Request To Remove Requirement To Replace All Tubes
All three commenters requested that the FAA remove the proposed
requirement to replace the elevator and aileron balance tubes even if
no corrosion and rust is found during the inspection. Two commenters
noted that requiring the replacement of parts found to be airworthy
does not promote safety and instead subjects owners to unnecessary
expenses. Yankee Aviation Services, Inc., stated the new tubes are the
same as those being replaced and do not have corrosion proofing.
The FAA disagrees. The FAA determined that the root cause of the
rust and corrosion on the elevator and aileron balance tubes is likely
a deficient corrosion protection specification in the initial design
and manufacture of these tubes. The commenter is not correct that the
new tubes are the same as those being replaced. The existing balance
tubes are part number (P/N) 26003-003, Revision L or earlier, while the
new replacement balance tubes are P/N 26003-003, Revision M or later,
as specified in the service information. The Revision M and later
balance tubes have been manufactured with corrosion protection (Zinc
Chromate primer) that was not applied on the earlier versions of the
tubes. The FAA did not change this AD based on these comments.
Request To Allow Part Repair Instead of Replacement
Yankee Aviation Services, Inc., requested the FAA revise the
proposed AD to allow the repair of tubes with rust instead of
replacement. The commenter stated that a tube with light rust and a
wall thickness of 0.049 inch could be repaired by being wire brushed
and painted with an epoxy paint.
The FAA disagrees. Repairing the tubes without replacement would
not address the root cause of the rust and
[[Page 82309]]
corrosion, which the FAA determined is likely a deficient corrosion
protection specification in the initial design and manufacture of these
tubes. The Revision M or later balance tubes have been manufactured
with corrosion protection (Zinc Chromate primer) that was not applied
on the earlier versions of the tubes. The commenter's request would
allow the tubes to remain installed on the airplane without this
additional corrosion protection. The FAA did not change this AD based
on this comment.
Conclusion
The FAA reviewed the relevant data, considered the comments
received, and determined that air safety and the public interest
require adopting this AD as proposed. Accordingly, the FAA is issuing
this AD to address the unsafe condition on these products.
Related Service Information Under 1 CFR part 51
The FAA reviewed Aerostar Service Bulletin SB600-138, dated August
30, 2018. The service bulletin contains procedures for repetitively
inspecting the elevator and aileron balance tubes for corrosion
(pitting and flaking) and rust (discoloration) and replacing the tubes
at a specified time and repetitively if necessary. 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.
Differences Between This AD and the Service Information
This AD does not require completing the reply card and returning it
to Aerostar as specified in Step 13 of Part II of the service
information.
Costs of Compliance
The FAA estimates that this AD affects 404 airplanes of U.S.
registry.
The FAA estimates the following costs to comply with this AD:
Estimated Costs
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Cost on U.S.
Action Labor cost Parts cost Cost per product operators
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Inspect elevator and aileron 1 work-hour x $85 Not Applicable.... $85 per inspection $34,340 per
balance tubes. per hour = $85 cycle.. inspection cycle.
per inspection
cycle.
Replace elevator and aileron 8 work-hours x $85 $1,187............ $1,867............ $754,268.
balance tubes. per hour = $680.
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
The FAA estimates the following costs to do any necessary
replacements that are required based on the results of the repetitive
inspections, assuming separate replacement intervals. The FAA has no
way of determining the number of airplanes that might need these
replacements:
On-Condition Costs
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Cost per
Action Labor cost Parts cost product
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Replace elevator balance tube................. 8 work-hours x $85 per hour = $594 $1,274
$680.
Replace aileron balance tube.................. 8 work-hours x $85 per hour = 594 1,274
$680.
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Authority for This Rulemaking
Title 49 of the United States Code specifies the FAA's authority to
issue rules on aviation safety. Subtitle I, section 106, describes the
authority of the FAA Administrator. Subtitle VII: Aviation Programs,
describes in more detail the scope of the Agency's authority.
The FAA is issuing this rulemaking under the authority described in
Subtitle VII, Part A, Subpart III, Section 44701: General requirements.
Under that section, Congress charges the FAA with promoting safe flight
of civil aircraft in air commerce by prescribing regulations for
practices, methods, and procedures the Administrator finds necessary
for safety in air commerce. This regulation is within the scope of that
authority because it addresses an unsafe condition that is likely to
exist or develop on products identified in this rulemaking action.
Regulatory Findings
This AD will not have federalism implications under Executive Order
13132. This AD will not have a substantial direct effect on the States,
on the relationship between the national government and the States, or
on the distribution of power and responsibilities among the various
levels of government.
For the reasons discussed above, I certify that this AD:
(1) Is not a ``significant regulatory action'' under Executive
Order 12866,
(2) Will not affect intrastate aviation in Alaska, and
(3) Will not have a significant economic impact, positive or
negative, on a substantial number of small entities under the criteria
of the Regulatory Flexibility Act.
List of Subjects in 14 CFR Part 39
Air transportation, Aircraft, Aviation safety, Incorporation by
reference, Safety.
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:
2020-24-10 Aerostar Aircraft Corporation: Amendment 39-21340; Docket
No. FAA-2020-0574; Product Identifier 2019-CE-015-AD.
(a) Effective Date
This airworthiness directive (AD) is effective January 22, 2021.
(b) Affected ADs
None.
[[Page 82310]]
(c) Applicability
This AD applies to Aerostar Aircraft Corporation Model PA-60-
601P (Aerostar 601P), PA-60-602P (Aerostar 602P), and PA-60-700P
(Aerostar 700P) airplanes, all serial numbers, certificated in any
category.
(d) Subject
Air Transport Association (ATA) of America Code 27; Flight
Controls.
(e) Unsafe Condition
This AD was prompted by reports of corrosion on the elevator and
aileron balance tubes. The FAA is issuing this AD to detect
corrosion on the elevator and aileron balance tubes. The unsafe
condition, if not addressed, could result in failure of the aileron
and elevator balance tubes, jamming of the aileron and/or elevator
balance tubes, and loss of control of the airplane.
(f) Compliance
Comply with this AD within the compliance times specified,
unless already done.
(g) Repetitive Inspections
Within 10 hours time-in-service after the effective date of this
AD, inspect the elevator and aileron balance tubes for corrosion
(pitting and flaking) and rust (discoloration) by following steps 1.
through 3. of Part I (Inspection) of the Instructions in Aerostar
Aircraft Corporation Service Bulletin SB600-138, dated August 30,
2018 (Aerostar SB600-138). For each tube replaced as required by
paragraph (h) of this AD, using a borescope, repeat the inspection
within 10 years after replacing the tube and thereafter as follows:
(1) At intervals not to exceed 10 years as long as no rust is
found.
(2) At intervals not to exceed 2 years if only rust is found
(without any signs of corrosion).
(h) Replacements
At the following compliance times, replace each elevator and
aileron balance tube by following Part II (Replacement) of the
Instructions in Aerostar SB600-138, except you are not required to
report information to the manufacturer:
(1) Before further flight if corrosion or rust is found (inside
or outside the tubes) during the initial inspection required by
paragraph (g) of this AD.
(2) At the next 100-hour inspection or at the next annual
inspection, whichever occurs first, if no corrosion and no rust is
found (inside or outside the tubes) during the initial inspection
required by paragraph (g) of this AD.
(3) Before further flight if corrosion is found (inside or
outside the tubes) during any repetitive inspection required by
paragraph (g) of this AD.
(i) Alternative Methods of Compliance (AMOCs)
(1) The Manager, Seattle 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 (j) of this AD. Information may be
emailed 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.
(j) Related Information
For more information about this AD, contact David Herron,
Aerospace Engineer, Seattle ACO Branch, FAA, 2200 S 216th St, Des
Moines, WA 98198; phone: (206) 231-3544; email:
[email protected].
(k) 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) Aerostar Aircraft Corporation Service Bulletin SB600-138,
dated August 30, 2018.
(ii) [Reserved]
(3) For service information identified in this AD, contact
Aerostar Aircraft Corporation, 2265 West Aerostar Way, Hayden Lake,
ID 83835; telephone: (208) 762-0338; fax: (208) 762-8349; internet:
https://aerostaraircraft.com.
(4) You may view this service information at the FAA,
Airworthiness Products Section, Operational Safety Branch, 901
Locust, Kansas City, Missouri 64106. For information on the
availability of this material at the FAA, call (816) 329-4148.
(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 December 15, 2020.
Gaetano A. Sciortino,
Deputy Director for Strategic Initiatives, Compliance & Airworthiness
Division, Aircraft Certification Service.
[FR Doc. 2020-27894 Filed 12-17-20; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE 4910-13-P
