Airworthiness Directives; Leonardo S.p.a. Helicopters, 82972-82975 [2020-28076]

Download as PDF 82972 Federal Register / Vol. 85, No. 245 / Monday, December 21, 2020 / Proposed Rules (3) Would not have a significant economic impact, positive or negative, on a substantial number of small entities under the criteria of the Regulatory Flexibility Act. List of Subjects in 14 CFR Part 39 Air transportation, Aircraft, Aviation safety, Incorporation by reference, Safety. The Proposed Amendment Accordingly, under the authority delegated to me by the Administrator, the FAA proposes to amend 14 CFR part 39 as follows: PART 39—AIRWORTHINESS DIRECTIVES 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: ■ Rolls-Royce Deutschland Ltd & Co KG (Type Certificate previously held by RollsRoyce plc): Docket No. FAA–2020–1138; Project Identifier MCAI–2020–01258–E. (a) Comments Due Date The FAA must receive comments on this airworthiness directive (AD) by February 4, 2021. (b) Affected ADs None. (c) Applicability This AD applies to Rolls-Royce Deutschland Ltd & Co KG (Type Certificate previously held by Rolls-Royce plc) (RRD) Trent 1000–A2, 1000–AE2, 1000–C2, 1000– CE2, 1000–D2, 1000–E2, 1000–G2, 1000–H2, 1000–J2, 1000–K2 and 1000–L2 model turbofan engines with a low-pressure turbine (LPT) stage 3 disk with part number (P/N) KH36323, or an LPT stage 4 disk with P/N KH33943, installed. (d) Subject Joint Aircraft System Component (JASC) Code 7250, Turbine Section. (e) Unsafe Condition This AD was prompted by the manufacturer’s analysis of certain LPT disks in service. The analysis determined that, due to rubbing contact with interstage static seals, cracks may initiate in the front seal fins, which could lead to cracks in the LPT stage 3 and stage 4 disks. The FAA is issuing this AD to prevent failure of the LPT disk. The unsafe condition, if not addressed, could result in uncontained LPT disk release, damage to the engine, and damage to the airplane. (f) Compliance Comply with this AD within the compliance times specified, unless already done. VerDate Sep<11>2014 21:22 Dec 18, 2020 Jkt 253001 (g) Required Actions (1) During each engine shop visit after the effective date of this AD, inspect the seal fins of the LPT stage 3 disk and the LPT stage 4 disk in accordance with the Accomplishment Instructions, paragraphs 3.B and 3.C, of the Rolls-Royce Alert Non-Modification Service Bulletin (NMSB) Trent 1000 72–AK416, Initial Issue, dated June 29, 2020. (i) For an engine that is in an engine shop visit on the effective date of this AD, if the LPT stage 3 disk and LPT stage 4 disk are exposed, perform the inspection before the engine is returned to service. (ii) [Reserved] (2) If, during any inspection required by paragraph (g)(1) of this AD, any crack is detected, before further flight, remove the affected LPT disk and replace it with a part eligible for installation. www.rolls-royce.com/contact-us.aspx. You may view this referenced service information at the FAA, Airworthiness Products Section, Operational Safety Branch, 1200 District Avenue, Burlington, MA 01803. For information on the availability of this material at the FAA, call (781) 238–7759. (h) Definitions (1) For the purpose of this AD, an ‘‘engine shop visit’’ is the induction of an engine into the shop for maintenance involving the separation of pairs of major mating engine flanges, with the exception of the separation of engine flanges solely for the purpose of transporting the engine without subsequent maintenance. (2) For the purpose of this AD, a ‘‘part eligible for installation’’ is an LPT stage 3 disk or LPT stage 4 disk with zero flight cycles since new, or an LPT stage 3 disk or LPT stage 4 disk that has passed the inspection required by paragraph (g)(1) of this AD. 14 CFR Part 39 (i) Alternative Methods of Compliance (AMOCs) (1) The Manager, ECO Branch, FAA, has the authority to approve AMOCs for this AD, if requested using the procedures found in 14 CFR 39.19. In accordance with 14 CFR 39.19, send your request to your principal inspector or local Flight Standards District Office, as appropriate. If sending information directly to the manager of the certification office, send it to the attention of the person identified in Related Information. You may email your request to: ANE-AD-AMOC@ faa.gov. (2) Before using any approved AMOC, notify your appropriate principal inspector, or lacking a principal inspector, the manager of the local flight standards district office/ certificate holding district office. (j) Related Information (1) For more information about this AD, contact Kevin M. Clark, Aviation Safety Engineer, ECO Branch, FAA, 1200 District Avenue, Burlington, MA 01803; phone: (781) 238–7088; fax: (781) 238–7199; email: kevin.m.clark@faa.gov. (2) Refer to European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) AD 2020–0195, dated September 8, 2020, for more information. You may examine the EASA AD in the AD docket at https://www.regulations.gov by searching for and locating it in Docket No. FAA–2020–1138. (3) For service information identified in this AD, contact Rolls-Royce plc, P.O. Box 31, Derby, DE24 8BJ, United Kingdom, phone: +44 (0)1332 242424; website: https:// PO 00000 Frm 00023 Fmt 4702 Sfmt 4702 Issued on December 15, 2020. Lance T. Gant, Director, Compliance & Airworthiness Division, Aircraft Certification Service. [FR Doc. 2020–28042 Filed 12–18–20; 8:45 am] BILLING CODE 4910–13–P DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION Federal Aviation Administration [Docket No. FAA–2020–1139; Product Identifier 2018–SW–056–AD] RIN 2120–AA64 Airworthiness Directives; Leonardo S.p.a. Helicopters Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), DOT. ACTION: Notice of proposed rulemaking (NPRM). AGENCY: The FAA is proposing to adopt a new airworthiness directive (AD) for certain serial-numbered Leonardo S.p.a. (Leonardo) Model A109S and AW109SP helicopters. This proposed AD would require installing a placard in the baggage compartment, revising the existing Rotorcraft Flight Manual (RFM) for your helicopter, and inspecting the installation of the terminal lugs. Depending on the outcome of the inspection, this proposed AD would require restoring the installation of the terminal lugs. This proposed AD would also require modifying the helicopter to shim the baggage fairing assy (fwd up) away from the circuit breaker panel and incorporating protective coverings. This proposed AD was prompted by reports of several occurrences of fire ignition and smoke in the baggage compartment. The actions of this proposed AD are intended to address an unsafe condition on these products. DATES: The FAA must receive comments on this proposed AD by February 4, 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. • Mail: Send comments to the U.S. Department of Transportation, Docket SUMMARY: E:\FR\FM\21DEP1.SGM 21DEP1 Federal Register / Vol. 85, No. 245 / Monday, December 21, 2020 / Proposed Rules 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– 1139; 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 proposed AD, the European Aviation Safety Agency (now European Union Aviation Safety Agency) (EASA) AD, any comments received, any service information that is incorporated by reference, 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 proposed rule, contact Leonardo S.p.a. Helicopters, Emanuele Bufano, Head of Airworthiness, Viale G.Agusta 520, 21017 C.Costa di Samarate (Va) Italy; telephone +39–0331–225074; fax +39–0331–229046; or at https:// www.leonardocompany.com/en/home. 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. FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Kristin Bradley, Aerospace Engineer, General Aviation & Rotorcraft Section, International Validation Branch, FAA, 10101 Hillwood Pkwy., Fort Worth, TX 76177; telephone 817–222–5110; email Kristin.Bradley@faa.gov. SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: Comments Invited The FAA invites you to send any written relevant data, views, or arguments about this proposal. Send your comments to an address listed under ADDRESSES. Include ‘‘Docket No. FAA–2020–1139; Product Identifier 2018–SW–056–AD’’ at the beginning of your comments. The most helpful comments reference a specific portion of the proposal, explain the reason for any recommended change, and include supporting data. The FAA will consider all comments received by the closing date and may amend this proposal because of those comments. Except for Confidential Business Information (CBI) as described in the VerDate Sep<11>2014 21:22 Dec 18, 2020 Jkt 253001 following paragraph, and other information as described in 14 CFR 11.35, the FAA will post all comments received, without change, to https:// www.regualtions.gov, including any personal information you provide. The agency will also post a report summarizing each substantive verbal contact received about this proposal. Confidential Business Information CBI is commercial or financial information that is both customarily and actually treated as private by its owner. Under the Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) (5 U.S.C. 552), CBI is exempt from public disclosure. If your comments responsive to this NPRM contain commercial or financial information that is customarily treated as private, that you actually treat as private, and that is relevant or responsive to this NPRM, it is important that you clearly designate the submitted comments as CBI. Please mark each page of your submission containing CBI as ‘‘PROPIN.’’ The FAA will treat such marked submissions as confidential under the FOIA, and they will not be placed in the public docket of this NPRM. Submissions containing CBI should be sent to Kristi Bradley, Aerospace Engineer, General Aviation & Rotorcraft Section, International Validation Branch, FAA, 10101 Hillwood Pkwy., Fort Worth, TX 76177; telephone 817–222–5110; email kristin.bradley@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. 82973 prohibiting carrying any loads in the baggage compartment. After EASA AD 2018–0120–E was issued, a second occurrence was reported of fire ignition and smoke in the baggage compartment, and as a precautionary measure Leonardo Helicopters issued a series of emergency alert service bulletins, providing instructions to prevent damage of electrical assemblies in the baggage compartment. Accordingly, EASA issued, EASA Emergency No. 2018– 0149–E, dated July 13, 2018 (EASA AD 2018–0149–E), which retains the requirements of EASA AD 2018–0120– E, and also requires repetitive inspections of the baggage compartment electrical assemblies and depending on the inspection outcomes, repairing or replacing certain parts. Also, EASA AD 2018–0149–E expands the applicability to include three additional serialnumbered helicopters, and requires a modification, which acts as a terminating action for the repetitive inspections. EASA advises, that this condition, if not corrected, could lead to fire in the baggage compartment, resulting in loss of control of the helicopter. Discussion 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 proposing this AD after evaluating all information and determining the unsafe condition exists and is likely to exist or develop on other helicopters of these same type designs. EASA, which is the Technical Agent for the Member States of the European Union, has issued EASA Emergency AD No. 2018–0120–E, dated May 29, 2018 (EASA AD 2018–0120–E), to correct an unsafe condition for Leonardo S.p.a. (formerly Finmeccanica S.p.A., AgustaWestland S.p.A., Agusta S.p.A.) Model A109S and AW109SP helicopters. EASA advises that an occurrence was reported on an AW109SP helicopter, experiencing fire ignition and smoke in the baggage compartment. The investigation determined the event was due to chafing of electrical wiring and further analysis indicated that due to similarity of design, this event could also occur on A109S helicopters. Accordingly, the EASA AD requires modification of the affected baggage fairing assembly (fwd up) part number (P/N) 109–0344–31– 101 and temporarily amending the existing RFM and installing a placard Related Service Information Under 1 CFR Part 51 The FAA has reviewed Leonardo Helicopters Emergency Alert Service Bulletin (EASB) No. 109S–079, and Leonardo Helicopters EASB No. 109SP– 120, each Revision A, and each dated June 4, 2018. This service information specifies instructions for manufacturing a placard for the baggage compartment door and also specifies instructions for modifying and inserting a specific cutout into the existing RFM. This service information also specifies instructions for removing the baggage fairing assembly (fwd up), and the rubber protections, inspecting the cable assemblies routing of both circuit breaker panels, and inspecting the installation of the terminal lugs. The FAA also reviewed Leonardo Helicopters EASB No. 109SP–122, and Leonardo Helicopters EASB No. 109S– 081, each dated July 5, 2018, which PO 00000 Frm 00024 Fmt 4702 Sfmt 4702 E:\FR\FM\21DEP1.SGM 21DEP1 82974 Federal Register / Vol. 85, No. 245 / Monday, December 21, 2020 / Proposed Rules specify procedures for modifying the helicopter by incorporating protective coverings. 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. Proposed AD Requirements This proposed AD would require compliance with certain portions of the manufacturer’s service bulletin as well as, before further flight, for certain serial-numbered helicopters, installing a placard and revising the existing RFM for your helicopter. This proposed AD would also require within 5 hours timein-service (TIS), for certain model helicopters, inspecting the installation of the terminal lugs, shimming the installation of the baggage fairing assembly (fwd up), and installing a silicon rubber protection over the blind rivets of the hinge in accordance with certain applicable service information. This proposed AD would also require within 10 hours TIS and thereafter at intervals not to exceed 25 hours TIS until protective coverings are installed, removing the baggage fairing assembly (fwd up), removing the rubber protections, and inspecting the cable assembly routing of both circuit breaker panels for damage. Depending on the outcome of these inspections, this proposed AD would require repairing or replacing certain parts. This proposed AD would also require, within 200 hours TIS, modifying the helicopter to incorporate a certain protective coverings, which would provide a terminating action for the repetitive inspections. Differences Between This AD and the EASA AD The EASA AD uses compliance times in terms of calendar dates, whereas this proposed AD uses compliance times terms of in hours TIS. Costs of Compliance The FAA estimates that this AD would affect 15 helicopters of U.S. Registry. The FAA estimates that operators may incur the following costs in order to comply with this proposed AD. Labor costs are estimated at $85 per work-hour. Installing a placard and revising the existing RFM for your helicopter would require about 1 work-hour for an estimated cost of $85 per helicopter and $1275 for the U.S. fleet. Inspecting the installation of the terminal lugs, shimming the baggage fairing assembly (fwd up), and installing a silicon rubber protection over the VerDate Sep<11>2014 21:22 Dec 18, 2020 Jkt 253001 blind rivets removing the rubber protections would require about 3 workhours for an estimated cost of $255 per helicopter. Removing the baggage fairing assembly (fwd up) and performing a repetitive inspection of the cable assemblies of both circuit breaker panels for damage would require about 2 workhours for an estimated cost of $170 per helicopter per inspection cycle and $2,550 for the U.S. fleet per inspection cycle. Repairing a cable assembly would require about 4 work-hours and parts would cost about $340 for an estimated cost of $680 per repair. Modifying the helicopter by installing protective coverings would require about 4 work-hours and parts would cost about $20 for an estimated cost of $360 per helicopter and $5,400 for the U.S. fleet. 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. on a number of small entities under the criteria of the Regulatory Flexibility Act. List of Subjects in 14 CFR Part 39 Air transportation, Aircraft, Aviation safety, Incorporation by reference, Safety. The Proposed Amendment Accordingly, under the authority delegated to me by the Administrator, the FAA 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: ■ Leonardo S.p.a.: Docket No. FAA–2020– 1139; Product Identifier 2018–SW–056– AD. (a) Applicability This airworthiness directive (AD) applies to Leonardo S.p.a. Model A109S helicopters, serial number (S/N) 22702, 22703, 22705, and 22706 and AW109SP helicopters with S/ N up to 22386 inclusive, except S/N 22375 and S/N 22376, certificated in any category. (b) Unsafe Condition This AD defines the unsafe condition as chafing of electrical wiring. This condition could result in fire ignition and smoke in the baggage compartment and subsequent loss of control of the helicopter. (c) Effective Date The FAA must receive comments by February 4, 2021. Regulatory Findings (e) 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. The FAA determined that this proposed AD would not have federalism implications under Executive Order 13132. This proposed AD would not have a substantial direct effect on the States, on the relationship between the national Government and the States, or on the distribution of power and responsibilities among the various levels of government. For the reasons discussed, I certify this proposed regulation: 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, (f) Required Actions (1) For all helicopters, except Model A109S having S/N 22705 or S/N 22706 and Model AW109SP having S/N 22384, before further flight: (i) Install a placard with the information in Figure 5 of Leonardo Helicopters Emergency Alert Service Bulletin (EASB) No. 109S–079 (EASB 109S–079), or Leonardo Helicopters EASB No. 109SP–120 (EASB 109SP–120), each Revision A, and each dated June 4, 2018, as applicable to your helicopter model, in the baggage compartment on the internal side of the baggage door D8. (ii) Revise the existing Rotorcraft Flight Manual (RFM) for your helicopter by cutting along the dashed line of Figure 6 of EASB 109S–079 or EASB 109SP–120, as applicable to your model helicopter, and inserting the cutout to replace page 1–28 or 1–3, as PO 00000 Frm 00025 Fmt 4702 Sfmt 4702 E:\FR\FM\21DEP1.SGM 21DEP1 Federal Register / Vol. 85, No. 245 / Monday, December 21, 2020 / Proposed Rules applicable to your model helicopter, of the existing RFM for your helicopter. (2) For all helicopters, except Model A109S having S/N 22705 or S/N 22706 and Model AW109SP having S/N 22384, within 5 hours time-in-service (TIS): (i)Visually inspect the installation of the terminal lugs to determine whether the installation is consistent with Figure 2 of EASB 109SP–120 or EASB 109S–079, as applicable to your model helicopter. If the installation is not consistent with Figure 2 of EASB 109SP–120 or EASB 109S–079, as applicable to your model helicopter, restore the installation to be consistent with Figure 2 of EASB 109SP–120 or EASB 109S–079, as applicable to your model helicopter. (ii) Shim the installation of the baggage fairing assembly (fwd up) P/N 109–0344–31– 101 to move it away from the circuit breaker panel, and install a silicon rubber protection over the blind rivets of the hinge in accordance with the Accomplishment Instructions, Part II, steps 3 through 8 of EASB 109S–079 or EASB 109SP–120, as applicable to your model helicopter. (3) Performing the steps as described in paragraph (f)(2) of this AD allows the RFM revision described in paragraph (f)(1) of this AD to be removed from the existing RFM for your helicopter and the placard described in paragraph (f)(1) of this AD to be removed from the helicopter. (4) For all helicopters, within 10 hours TIS and thereafter at intervals not to exceed 25 hours TIS, remove the baggage fairing assembly (fwd up) P/N 109–0344–31–101, remove the rubber protections P/N 109– 0746–52–105 and P/N 109–0746–52–107, and inspect the cable assemblies routing of both circuit breaker panels for damage. For the purposes of this inspection, damage may be indicated by chafing. If there is any damage, repair or replace the cables in accordance with FAA accepted procedures and protect the cables by installing Nomex sleeve P/N EN6049–006. (5) For all helicopters, within 200 hours TIS, modify the helicopter’s baggage compartment by adding the protective coverings in accordance with the Accomplishment Instructions, Part II, steps 3 through 14 of Leonardo Helicopters EASB No. 109SP–122, dated July 5, 2018 or Leonardo Helicopters EASB No. 109S–081, dated July 5, 2018, as applicable to your model helicopter. Completion of this modification is a terminating action for the 25 hour TIS repetitive inspections of paragraph (f)(4) of this AD. (g) Alternative Methods of Compliance (AMOCs) (1) The Manager, International Validation Branch, FAA, may approve AMOCs for this AD. Send your proposal to: Kristi Bradley, Aerospace Engineer, General Aviation & Rotorcraft Section, International Validation Branch, FAA, 10101 Hillwood Pkwy., Fort Worth, TX 76177; telephone 817–222–5110; email 9-AVS-AIR-730-AMOC@faa.gov. (2) For operations conducted under a 14 CFR part 119 operating certificate or sunder 14 CFR part 91, subpart K, the FAA suggests that you notify your principal inspector, or lacking a principal inspector, the manager of VerDate Sep<11>2014 21:22 Dec 18, 2020 Jkt 253001 the local flight standards district office or certificate holding district office, before operating any aircraft complying with this AD through an AMOC. 82975 [Docket No. FAA–2020–1137; Project Identifier MCAI–2020–00816–T] 11.43 and 11.45, by any of the following methods: • Federal eRulemaking Portal: Go to https://www.regulations.gov. Follow the instructions for submitting comments. • Fax: 202–493–2251. • Mail: U.S. Department of Transportation, Docket Operations, M– 30, West Building Ground Floor, Room W12–140, 1200 New Jersey Avenue SE, Washington, DC 20590. • Hand Delivery: Deliver to Mail address above between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m., Monday through Friday, except Federal holidays. For service information identified in this NPRM, contact MHI RJ Aviation ULC, 12655 Henri-Fabre Blvd., Mirabel, Que´bec J7N 1E1 Canada; Widebody Customer Response Center North America toll-free telephone +1–844– 272–2720 or direct-dial telephone +1– 514–855–8500; fax +1–514–855–8501; email thd.crj@mhirj.com; internet https://mhirj.com. You may view this service information at the FAA, Airworthiness Products Section, Operational Safety Branch, 2200 South 216th St., Des Moines, WA. For information on the availability of this material at the FAA, call 206–231–3195. RIN 2120–AA64 Examining the AD Docket (h) Additional Information The subject of this AD is addressed in European Aviation Safety Agency (now European Union Aviation Safety Agency) (EASA) AD No. 2018–0149–E, dated July 13, 2018. You may view the EASA AD on the internet at https://www.regulations.gov in the AD Docket. (i) Subject Joint Aircraft Service Component (JASC) Code: 5397, Fuselage Wiring, Baggage Fairings Modification. Issued on December 16, 2020. Lance T. Gant, Director,Compliance & Airworthiness Division,Aircraft Certification Service. [FR Doc. 2020–28076 Filed 12–18–20; 8:45 am] BILLING CODE 4910–13–P DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION Federal Aviation Administration 14 CFR Part 39 Airworthiness Directives; MHI RJ Aviation ULC (Type Certificate Previously Held by Bombardier, Inc.) Airplanes Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), DOT. ACTION: Notice of proposed rulemaking (NPRM). AGENCY: The FAA proposes to adopt a new airworthiness directive (AD) for certain MHI RJ Aviation ULC Model CL–600–2C10 (Regional Jet Series 700, 701 & 702), CL–600–2C11 (Regional Jet Series 550), and CL–600–2D24 (Regional Jet Series 900) airplanes. This proposed AD was prompted by a report that some piccolo ducts for the wing anti-ice system have bleed holes that do not conform to requirements. This proposed AD would require, depending on airplane configuration, inspection for the presence of affected wing anti-ice system piccolo ducts and corrective actions, or replacement of affected piccolo ducts with new piccolo ducts. The FAA is proposing this AD to address the unsafe condition on these products. DATES: The FAA must receive comments on this proposed AD by February 4, 2021. ADDRESSES: You may send comments, using the procedures found in 14 CFR SUMMARY: PO 00000 Frm 00026 Fmt 4702 Sfmt 4702 You may examine the AD docket on the internet at https:// www.regulations.gov by searching for and locating Docket No. FAA–2020– 1137; or in person at Docket Operations between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m., Monday through Friday, except Federal holidays. The AD docket contains this NPRM, any comments received, and other information. The street address for Docket Operations is listed above. FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Siddeeq Bacchus, Aerospace Engineer, Mechanical Systems and Administrative Services Section, FAA, New York ACO Branch, 1600 Stewart Avenue, Suite 410, Westbury, NY 11590; telephone 516–228–7362; email 9-avs-nyaco-cos@ faa.gov. SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: Comments Invited The FAA invites you to send any written relevant data, views, or arguments about this proposal. Send your comments to an address listed under the ADDRESSES section. Include ‘‘Docket No. FAA–2020–1137; Project Identifier MCAI–2020–00816–T’’ at the beginning of your comments. The most helpful comments reference a specific portion of the proposal, explain the reason for any recommended change, and include supporting data. The FAA will consider all comments received by E:\FR\FM\21DEP1.SGM 21DEP1

Agencies

[Federal Register Volume 85, Number 245 (Monday, December 21, 2020)]
[Proposed Rules]
[Pages 82972-82975]
From the Federal Register Online via the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]
[FR Doc No: 2020-28076]


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DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION

Federal Aviation Administration

14 CFR Part 39

[Docket No. FAA-2020-1139; Product Identifier 2018-SW-056-AD]
RIN 2120-AA64


Airworthiness Directives; Leonardo S.p.a. Helicopters

AGENCY: Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), DOT.

ACTION: Notice of proposed rulemaking (NPRM).

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

SUMMARY: The FAA is proposing to adopt a new airworthiness directive 
(AD) for certain serial-numbered Leonardo S.p.a. (Leonardo) Model A109S 
and AW109SP helicopters. This proposed AD would require installing a 
placard in the baggage compartment, revising the existing Rotorcraft 
Flight Manual (RFM) for your helicopter, and inspecting the 
installation of the terminal lugs. Depending on the outcome of the 
inspection, this proposed AD would require restoring the installation 
of the terminal lugs. This proposed AD would also require modifying the 
helicopter to shim the baggage fairing assy (fwd up) away from the 
circuit breaker panel and incorporating protective coverings. This 
proposed AD was prompted by reports of several occurrences of fire 
ignition and smoke in the baggage compartment. The actions of this 
proposed AD are intended to address an unsafe condition on these 
products.

DATES: The FAA must receive comments on this proposed AD by February 4, 
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.
     Mail: Send comments to the U.S. Department of 
Transportation, Docket

[[Page 82973]]

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-
1139; 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 proposed AD, the European Aviation Safety Agency (now European 
Union Aviation Safety Agency) (EASA) AD, any comments received, any 
service information that is incorporated by reference, 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 proposed rule, contact 
Leonardo S.p.a. Helicopters, Emanuele Bufano, Head of Airworthiness, 
Viale G.Agusta 520, 21017 C.Costa di Samarate (Va) Italy; telephone 
+39-0331-225074; fax +39-0331-229046; or at https://www.leonardocompany.com/en/home. 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.

FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Kristin Bradley, Aerospace Engineer, 
General Aviation & Rotorcraft Section, International Validation 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 relevant data, views, or 
arguments about this proposal. Send your comments to an address listed 
under ADDRESSES. Include ``Docket No. FAA-2020-1139; Product Identifier 
2018-SW-056-AD'' at the beginning of your comments. The most helpful 
comments reference a specific portion of the proposal, explain the 
reason for any recommended change, and include supporting data. The FAA 
will consider all comments received by the closing date and may amend 
this proposal because of those comments.
    Except for Confidential Business Information (CBI) as described in 
the following paragraph, and other information as described in 14 CFR 
11.35, the FAA will post all comments received, without change, to 
https://www.regualtions.gov, including any personal information you 
provide. The agency will also post a report summarizing each 
substantive verbal contact received about this proposal.

Confidential Business Information

    CBI is commercial or financial information that is both customarily 
and actually treated as private by its owner. Under the Freedom of 
Information Act (FOIA) (5 U.S.C. 552), CBI is exempt from public 
disclosure. If your comments responsive to this NPRM contain commercial 
or financial information that is customarily treated as private, that 
you actually treat as private, and that is relevant or responsive to 
this NPRM, it is important that you clearly designate the submitted 
comments as CBI. Please mark each page of your submission containing 
CBI as ``PROPIN.'' The FAA will treat such marked submissions as 
confidential under the FOIA, and they will not be placed in the public 
docket of this NPRM. Submissions containing CBI should be sent to 
Kristi Bradley, Aerospace Engineer, General Aviation & Rotorcraft 
Section, International Validation 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. 2018-0120-E, dated May 
29, 2018 (EASA AD 2018-0120-E), to correct an unsafe condition for 
Leonardo S.p.a. (formerly Finmeccanica S.p.A., AgustaWestland S.p.A., 
Agusta S.p.A.) Model A109S and AW109SP helicopters. EASA advises that 
an occurrence was reported on an AW109SP helicopter, experiencing fire 
ignition and smoke in the baggage compartment. The investigation 
determined the event was due to chafing of electrical wiring and 
further analysis indicated that due to similarity of design, this event 
could also occur on A109S helicopters. Accordingly, the EASA AD 
requires modification of the affected baggage fairing assembly (fwd up) 
part number (P/N) 109-0344-31-101 and temporarily amending the existing 
RFM and installing a placard prohibiting carrying any loads in the 
baggage compartment.
    After EASA AD 2018-0120-E was issued, a second occurrence was 
reported of fire ignition and smoke in the baggage compartment, and as 
a precautionary measure Leonardo Helicopters issued a series of 
emergency alert service bulletins, providing instructions to prevent 
damage of electrical assemblies in the baggage compartment. 
Accordingly, EASA issued, EASA Emergency No. 2018-0149-E, dated July 
13, 2018 (EASA AD 2018-0149-E), which retains the requirements of EASA 
AD 2018-0120-E, and also requires repetitive inspections of the baggage 
compartment electrical assemblies and depending on the inspection 
outcomes, repairing or replacing certain parts. Also, EASA AD 2018-
0149-E expands the applicability to include three additional serial-
numbered helicopters, and requires a modification, which acts as a 
terminating action for the repetitive inspections. EASA advises, that 
this condition, if not corrected, could lead to fire in the baggage 
compartment, resulting in loss of control of the helicopter.

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 proposing this AD 
after evaluating all information 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 Leonardo Helicopters Emergency Alert Service 
Bulletin (EASB) No. 109S-079, and Leonardo Helicopters EASB No. 109SP-
120, each Revision A, and each dated June 4, 2018. This service 
information specifies instructions for manufacturing a placard for the 
baggage compartment door and also specifies instructions for modifying 
and inserting a specific cutout into the existing RFM. This service 
information also specifies instructions for removing the baggage 
fairing assembly (fwd up), and the rubber protections, inspecting the 
cable assemblies routing of both circuit breaker panels, and inspecting 
the installation of the terminal lugs.
    The FAA also reviewed Leonardo Helicopters EASB No. 109SP-122, and 
Leonardo Helicopters EASB No. 109S-081, each dated July 5, 2018, which

[[Page 82974]]

specify procedures for modifying the helicopter by incorporating 
protective coverings.
    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.

Proposed AD Requirements

    This proposed AD would require compliance with certain portions of 
the manufacturer's service bulletin as well as, before further flight, 
for certain serial-numbered helicopters, installing a placard and 
revising the existing RFM for your helicopter. This proposed AD would 
also require within 5 hours time-in-service (TIS), for certain model 
helicopters, inspecting the installation of the terminal lugs, shimming 
the installation of the baggage fairing assembly (fwd up), and 
installing a silicon rubber protection over the blind rivets of the 
hinge in accordance with certain applicable service information. This 
proposed AD would also require within 10 hours TIS and thereafter at 
intervals not to exceed 25 hours TIS until protective coverings are 
installed, removing the baggage fairing assembly (fwd up), removing the 
rubber protections, and inspecting the cable assembly routing of both 
circuit breaker panels for damage. Depending on the outcome of these 
inspections, this proposed AD would require repairing or replacing 
certain parts. This proposed AD would also require, within 200 hours 
TIS, modifying the helicopter to incorporate a certain protective 
coverings, which would provide a terminating action for the repetitive 
inspections.

Differences Between This AD and the EASA AD

    The EASA AD uses compliance times in terms of calendar dates, 
whereas this proposed AD uses compliance times terms of in hours TIS.

Costs of Compliance

    The FAA estimates that this AD would affect 15 helicopters of U.S. 
Registry. The FAA estimates that operators may incur the following 
costs in order to comply with this proposed AD. Labor costs are 
estimated at $85 per work-hour.
    Installing a placard and revising the existing RFM for your 
helicopter would require about 1 work-hour for an estimated cost of $85 
per helicopter and $1275 for the U.S. fleet.
    Inspecting the installation of the terminal lugs, shimming the 
baggage fairing assembly (fwd up), and installing a silicon rubber 
protection over the blind rivets removing the rubber protections would 
require about 3 work-hours for an estimated cost of $255 per 
helicopter.
    Removing the baggage fairing assembly (fwd up) and performing a 
repetitive inspection of the cable assemblies of both circuit breaker 
panels for damage would require about 2 work-hours for an estimated 
cost of $170 per helicopter per inspection cycle and $2,550 for the 
U.S. fleet per inspection cycle.
    Repairing a cable assembly would require about 4 work-hours and 
parts would cost about $340 for an estimated cost of $680 per repair.
    Modifying the helicopter by installing protective coverings would 
require about 4 work-hours and parts would cost about $20 for an 
estimated cost of $360 per helicopter and $5,400 for the U.S. fleet.

Authority for This Rulemaking

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

Regulatory Findings

    The FAA determined that this proposed AD would not have federalism 
implications under Executive Order 13132. This proposed AD would not 
have a substantial direct effect on the States, on the relationship 
between the national Government and the States, or on the distribution 
of power and responsibilities among the various levels of government.
    For the reasons discussed, I certify this proposed regulation:
    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 number of small entities under the criteria of the 
Regulatory Flexibility Act.

List of Subjects in 14 CFR Part 39

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

The Proposed Amendment

    Accordingly, under the authority delegated to me by the 
Administrator, the FAA 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:

Leonardo S.p.a.: Docket No. FAA-2020-1139; Product Identifier 2018-
SW-056-AD.

(a) Applicability

    This airworthiness directive (AD) applies to Leonardo S.p.a. 
Model A109S helicopters, serial number (S/N) 22702, 22703, 22705, 
and 22706 and AW109SP helicopters with S/N up to 22386 inclusive, 
except S/N 22375 and S/N 22376, certificated in any category.

(b) Unsafe Condition

    This AD defines the unsafe condition as chafing of electrical 
wiring. This condition could result in fire ignition and smoke in 
the baggage compartment and subsequent loss of control of the 
helicopter.

(c) Effective Date

    The FAA must receive comments by February 4, 2021.

(e) 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.

(f) Required Actions

    (1) For all helicopters, except Model A109S having S/N 22705 or 
S/N 22706 and Model AW109SP having S/N 22384, before further flight:
    (i) Install a placard with the information in Figure 5 of 
Leonardo Helicopters Emergency Alert Service Bulletin (EASB) No. 
109S-079 (EASB 109S-079), or Leonardo Helicopters EASB No. 109SP-120 
(EASB 109SP-120), each Revision A, and each dated June 4, 2018, as 
applicable to your helicopter model, in the baggage compartment on 
the internal side of the baggage door D8.
    (ii) Revise the existing Rotorcraft Flight Manual (RFM) for your 
helicopter by cutting along the dashed line of Figure 6 of EASB 
109S-079 or EASB 109SP-120, as applicable to your model helicopter, 
and inserting the cutout to replace page 1-28 or 1-3, as

[[Page 82975]]

applicable to your model helicopter, of the existing RFM for your 
helicopter.
    (2) For all helicopters, except Model A109S having S/N 22705 or 
S/N 22706 and Model AW109SP having S/N 22384, within 5 hours time-
in-service (TIS):
    (i)Visually inspect the installation of the terminal lugs to 
determine whether the installation is consistent with Figure 2 of 
EASB 109SP-120 or EASB 109S-079, as applicable to your model 
helicopter. If the installation is not consistent with Figure 2 of 
EASB 109SP-120 or EASB 109S-079, as applicable to your model 
helicopter, restore the installation to be consistent with Figure 2 
of EASB 109SP-120 or EASB 109S-079, as applicable to your model 
helicopter.
    (ii) Shim the installation of the baggage fairing assembly (fwd 
up) P/N 109-0344-31-101 to move it away from the circuit breaker 
panel, and install a silicon rubber protection over the blind rivets 
of the hinge in accordance with the Accomplishment Instructions, 
Part II, steps 3 through 8 of EASB 109S-079 or EASB 109SP-120, as 
applicable to your model helicopter.
    (3) Performing the steps as described in paragraph (f)(2) of 
this AD allows the RFM revision described in paragraph (f)(1) of 
this AD to be removed from the existing RFM for your helicopter and 
the placard described in paragraph (f)(1) of this AD to be removed 
from the helicopter.
    (4) For all helicopters, within 10 hours TIS and thereafter at 
intervals not to exceed 25 hours TIS, remove the baggage fairing 
assembly (fwd up) P/N 109-0344-31-101, remove the rubber protections 
P/N 109-0746-52-105 and P/N 109-0746-52-107, and inspect the cable 
assemblies routing of both circuit breaker panels for damage. For 
the purposes of this inspection, damage may be indicated by chafing. 
If there is any damage, repair or replace the cables in accordance 
with FAA accepted procedures and protect the cables by installing 
Nomex sleeve P/N EN6049-006.
    (5) For all helicopters, within 200 hours TIS, modify the 
helicopter's baggage compartment by adding the protective coverings 
in accordance with the Accomplishment Instructions, Part II, steps 3 
through 14 of Leonardo Helicopters EASB No. 109SP-122, dated July 5, 
2018 or Leonardo Helicopters EASB No. 109S-081, dated July 5, 2018, 
as applicable to your model helicopter. Completion of this 
modification is a terminating action for the 25 hour TIS repetitive 
inspections of paragraph (f)(4) of this AD.

(g) Alternative Methods of Compliance (AMOCs)

    (1) The Manager, International Validation Branch, FAA, may 
approve AMOCs for this AD. Send your proposal to: Kristi Bradley, 
Aerospace Engineer, General Aviation & Rotorcraft Section, 
International Validation 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 sunder 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.

(h) Additional Information

    The subject of this AD is addressed in European Aviation Safety 
Agency (now European Union Aviation Safety Agency) (EASA) AD No. 
2018-0149-E, dated July 13, 2018. You may view the EASA AD on the 
internet at https://www.regulations.gov in the AD Docket.

(i) Subject

    Joint Aircraft Service Component (JASC) Code: 5397, Fuselage 
Wiring, Baggage Fairings Modification.

    Issued on December 16, 2020.
Lance T. Gant,
Director,Compliance & Airworthiness Division,Aircraft Certification 
Service.

[FR Doc. 2020-28076 Filed 12-18-20; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE 4910-13-P

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