Airworthiness Directives; Airbus Helicopters, 12862-12865 [2021-03689]
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Federal Register / Vol. 86, No. 42 / Friday, March 5, 2021 / Proposed Rules
of this reinforcement constitutes terminating
action for the inspections required by
paragraphs (f)(1) and (2) of this AD.
(5) For Model EC130B4 helicopters with
MOD 074775 installed or with the
reinforcement that is required by paragraph
(f)(4) of this AD; and for Model EC130T2
helicopters with MOD 074775 installed or
with the reinforcement that is required by
paragraph (f)(4) of this AD, but without MOD
074581 installed:
(i) Within 600 hours TIS after the
installation of MOD 074775 or the
reinforcement that is required by paragraph
(f)(4) of this AD, and thereafter at intervals
not exceeding 600 hours TIS, perform the
actions of paragraph (f)(1)(i) of this AD.
(ii) If there is a crack, before further flight,
replace or repair the junction frame in
accordance with an FAA approved repair
procedure. Repairing the junction frame does
not constitute terminating action for the
requirements of this AD.
(g) Special Flight Permits
Special flight permits are prohibited.
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(i) Additional Information
(1) Airbus Helicopters Service Bulletin No.
EC130–53–029, Revision 1, dated January 27,
2016, Airbus EC 130 B4 Chapter 4,
Airworthiness Limitations Section, Revision
11, dated January 19, 2019, Airbus EC 130 T2
Chapter 4, Airworthiness Limitations
Section, Revision 9, dated September 9, 2019,
and Section 55–11–00, 6–4–Horizontal
Stabilizer—Inspection/Check, of Aircraft
Maintenance Manual EC130, dated
November 9, 2017, which are not
incorporated by reference, contain additional
information about the subject of this AD. For
service information identified in this AD,
contact Airbus Helicopters, 2701 N. Forum
Drive, Grand Prairie, TX 75052; telephone
972–641–0000 or 800–232–0323; fax 972–
641–3775; or at https://www.airbus.com/
helicopters/services/technical-support.html.
You may view 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.
(2) The subject of this AD is addressed in
European Aviation Safety Agency (now
European Union Aviation Safety Agency)
(EASA) 2018–0104, dated May 4, 2018. You
may view the EASA AD on the internet at
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(j) Subject
Joint Aircraft Service Component (JASC)
Code: 5302, Rotorcraft Tail Boom.
Issued on February 19, 2021.
Lance T. Gant,
Director, Compliance & Airworthiness
Division, Aircraft Certification Service.
[FR Doc. 2021–03954 Filed 3–4–21; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE 4910–13–P
DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION
Federal Aviation Administration
14 CFR Part 39
[Docket No. FAA–2020–1183; Project
Identifier 2019–SW–008–AD]
RIN 2120–AA64
(h) Alternative Methods of Compliance
(AMOCs)
(1) The Manager, International Validation
Branch, FAA, may approve AMOCs for this
AD. Send your proposal to: Kristi Bradley,
Aviation Safety 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.
(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.
VerDate Sep<11>2014
https://www.regulations.gov by searching for
and locating it in Docket No. FAA–2020–
1182.
Airworthiness Directives; Airbus
Helicopters
Federal Aviation
Administration (FAA), DOT.
ACTION: Notice of proposed rulemaking
(NPRM).
AGENCY:
The FAA proposes to adopt a
new airworthiness directive (AD) for
certain Airbus Helicopters Model EC
155B, EC155B1, SA–365N, SA–365N1,
AS–365N2, and AS 365 N3 helicopters,
as identified in a European Aviation
Safety Agency (now European Union
Aviation Safety Agency) (EASA) AD.
This proposed AD was prompted by a
report of an in-flight loss of engine and
main gearbox (MGB) cowlings. This
proposed AD would require inspecting
the MGB fixed cowling front fitting
(MGB front fitting), and depending on
findings, corrective action. This
proposed AD would also require a new
modification, which would constitute a
terminating action for the inspection.
These proposed AD requirements are as
specified in an EASA AD, which is
proposed for incorporation by reference
(IBR). The FAA is proposing this AD to
address the unsafe condition on these
products.
SUMMARY:
The FAA must receive comments
on this proposed AD by April 19, 2021.
ADDRESSES: You may send comments,
using the procedures found in 14 CFR
11.43 and 11.45, by any of the following
methods:
• Federal eRulemaking Portal: Go to
https://www.regulations.gov. Follow the
instructions for submitting comments.
• Fax: 202–493–2251.
• Mail: U.S. Department of
Transportation, Docket Operations,
DATES:
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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 material that is proposed for IBR
in this AD, contact the EASA, KonradAdenauer-Ufer 3, 50668 Cologne,
Germany; telephone +49 221 8999 000;
email ADs@easa.europa.eu; internet
www.easa.europa.eu. You may find this
material on the EASA website at https://
ad.easa.europa.eu. You may view this
material at the FAA, Office of the
Regional Counsel, Southwest Region,
10101 Hillwood Pkwy., Room 6N–321,
Fort Worth, TX 76177. For information
on the availability of this material at the
FAA, call 817–222–5110. It is also
available in the AD docket on the
internet at https://www.regulations.gov
by searching for and locating Docket No.
FAA–2020–1183.
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–
1183; or in person at Docket Operations
between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m., Monday
through Friday, except Federal holidays.
The AD docket contains this NPRM, any
comments received, and other
information. The street address for
Docket Operations is listed above.
Comments will be available in the AD
docket shortly after receipt.
FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT:
Blaine Williams, Aerospace Engineer,
Los Angles ACO Branch, Compliance &
Airworthiness Division, 3960
Paramount Blvd., Lakewood, California
90712; telephone 562–627–5371; email
blaine.williams@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–2020–1183; Project Identifier
2019–SW–008–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
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Federal Register / Vol. 86, No. 42 / Friday, March 5, 2021 / Proposed Rules
information as described in 14 CFR
11.35, the FAA will post all comments
received, without change, to https://
www.regulations.gov, including any
personal information you provide. The
agency will also post a report
summarizing each substantive verbal
contact received about this 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 Blaine Williams,
Aerospace Engineer, Los Angeles ACO
Branch, Compliance & Airworthiness
Division, 3960 Paramount Blvd.,
Lakewood, California 90712; telephone
562–627–5371; email blaine.williams@
faa.gov. Any commentary that the FAA
receives that is not specifically
designated as CBI will be placed in the
public docket for this rulemaking.
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Discussion
The EASA, which is the Technical
Agent for the Member States of the
European Union, has issued EASA AD
2019–0008, dated January 22, 2019
(EASA AD 2019–0008), to correct an
unsafe condition for certain Airbus
Helicopters (AH), formerly Eurocopter,
Eurocopter France, Aerospatiale, Model
EC 155 B, EC 155 B1, SA 365 N, SA 365
N1, AS 365 N2, and AS 365 N3
helicopters.
This proposed AD was prompted by
reports of an in-flight loss of engine and
MGB cowlings. Subsequent
investigations revealed that the MGB
cowling attachment fittings failed
because of mounting stress in the MGB
front fitting and air intake bulkhead.
The FAA is proposing this AD to
address failure of the MGB front fitting
and subsequent detachment of the MGB
or engine cowlings. See EASA AD
2019–0008 for additional background
information.
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Related Service Information Under 1
CFR Part 51
Explanation of Required Compliance
Information
EASA AD 2019–0008 requires
inspecting the MGB front fittings within
110 flight hours after April 14, 2017 (the
effective date of EASA AD 2017–0055,
dated March 31, 2017). If there is a
discrepancy, the EASA AD requires
applicable corrective action(s) before
next flight. EASA AD 2019–0008 also
requires modification of the MGB fixed
cowling attachments within 660 flight
hours or 23 months, whichever occurs
first, after the effective date described in
EASA AD 2019–0008. Accomplishing
the modification constitutes a
terminating action for the required
inspection.
The FAA also reviewed Airbus
Helicopters Alert Service Bulletin (ASB)
No. AS365–53.00.62 and EC155–
53A038, each Revision 0 and dated
December 20, 2018 (ASB AS365–
53.00.62 and ASB EC155–53A038). ASB
AS365–53.00.62 applies to Model
AS365-series helicopters. ASB EC155–
53A038 applies to Model EC155-series
helicopters. This service information
specifies replacing the front bracket,
inspecting for stress of the MGB fixed
cowlings on the radiator bulkhead, and
installing an additional locking system.
This material 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.
In the FAA’s ongoing efforts to
improve the efficiency of the AD
process, the FAA initially worked with
Airbus and EASA to develop a process
to use certain EASA ADs as the primary
source of information for compliance
with requirements for corresponding
FAA ADs. The FAA has since
coordinated with other manufacturers
and civil aviation authorities (CAAs) to
use this process. As a result, EASA AD
2019–0008 will be incorporated by
reference in the FAA final rule. This
proposed AD would, therefore, require
compliance with EASA AD 2019–0008
in its entirety, through that
incorporation, except for any differences
identified as exceptions in the
regulatory text of this proposed AD.
Using common terms that are the same
as the heading of a particular section in
the EASA AD does not mean that
operators need comply only with that
section. For example, where the AD
requirement refers to ‘‘all required
actions and compliance times,’’
compliance with this AD requirement is
not limited to the section titled
‘‘Required Action(s) and Compliance
Time(s)’’ in the EASA AD. Service
information specified in EASA AD
2019–0008 that is required for
compliance with EASA AD 2019–0008
will be available on the internet at
https://www.regulations.gov by
searching for and locating Docket No.
FAA–2020–1183 after the FAA final
rule is published.
FAA’s Determination and Requirements
of This Proposed AD
These products have been approved
by the aviation authority of another
country, and are approved for operation
in the United States. Pursuant to the
bilateral agreement with the State of
Design Authority, the FAA has been
notified of the unsafe condition
described in the EASA AD referenced
above. The FAA is proposing this AD
after evaluating all the relevant
information and determining the unsafe
condition described previously is likely
to exist or develop in other products of
these same type designs.
Proposed AD Requirements
This proposed AD would require
accomplishing the actions specified in
EASA AD 2019–0008, described
previously, as incorporated by
reference, except for any differences
identified as exceptions in the
regulatory text of this proposed AD and
except as discussed under ‘‘Differences
Between this Proposed AD and the
EASA AD.’’
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Costs of Compliance
The FAA estimates that this proposed
AD affects 19 helicopters of U.S.
Registry. Labor rates are estimated at
$85 per work-hour. Based on these
numbers, the FAA estimates that
operators may incur the following costs
in order to comply with this proposed
AD.
Inspecting the MGB front fittings
would take about 2 work-hours for an
estimated cost of $170 per helicopter
and $3,230 for the U.S. fleet. If required,
replacing an MGB front fitting would
take about 2 work-hours and parts
would cost about $590 for an estimated
total cost of $760 per fitting. Other
repairs could take up to 8 work-hours
(excluding drying time) and parts would
cost a minimal amount for an estimated
cost of up to $680 per helicopter.
Modifying the MGB fixed cowling
attachments would take about 5 workhours and parts would cost about $630
for an estimated cost of $1,055 per
helicopter and $20,045 for the U.S. fleet.
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Federal Register / Vol. 86, No. 42 / Friday, March 5, 2021 / Proposed Rules
§ 39.13
Authority for This Rulemaking
Title 49 of the United States Code
specifies the FAA’s authority to issue
rules on aviation safety. Subtitle I,
section 106, describes the authority of
the FAA Administrator. Subtitle VII:
Aviation Programs, describes in more
detail the scope of the Agency’s
authority.
The FAA is issuing this rulemaking
under the authority described in
Subtitle VII, Part A, Subpart III, Section
44701: General requirements. Under
that section, Congress charges the FAA
with promoting safe flight of civil
aircraft in air commerce by prescribing
regulations for practices, methods, and
procedures the Administrator finds
necessary for safety in air commerce.
This regulation is within the scope of
that authority because it addresses an
unsafe condition that is likely to exist or
develop on products identified in this
rulemaking action.
Regulatory Findings
The FAA determined that this
proposed AD would not have federalism
implications under Executive Order
13132. This proposed AD would not
have a substantial direct effect on the
States, on the relationship between the
national Government and the States, or
on the distribution of power and
responsibilities among the various
levels of government.
For the reasons discussed above, I
certify this proposed regulation:
(1) Is not a ‘‘significant regulatory
action’’ under Executive Order 12866,
(2) 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.
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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.
VerDate Sep<11>2014
19:49 Mar 04, 2021
Jkt 253001
[Amended]
2. The FAA amends § 39.13 by adding
the following new airworthiness
directive:
■
Airbus Helicopters: Docket No. FAA–2020–
1183; Project Identifier 2019–SW–008–
AD.
(a) Comments Due Date
The FAA must receive comments by April
19, 2021.
(b) Affected Airworthiness Directives (ADs)
None.
(c) Applicability
This AD applies to Airbus Helicopters
Model EC 155B, EC155B1, SA–365N, SA–
365N1, AS–365N2, and AS 365 N3
helicopters, certificated in any category, as
identified in European Aviation Safety
Agency (EASA) AD 2019–0008, dated
January 22, 2019 (EASA AD 2019–0008).
(d) Subject
Joint Aircraft System Component (JASC)
Code: 7110, Engine Cowling System.
(e) Reason
This AD was prompted by a report of an
in-flight loss of main gearbox (MGB) and
engine cowlings. The FAA is issuing this AD
to address a failure of the MGB fixed cowling
front fitting, and subsequent MGB cowling or
engine cowling detachment, which could
result in damage to the helicopter, loss of
helicopter control, and possible injury to
persons on the ground.
(f) Compliance
Comply with this AD within the
compliance times specified, unless already
done.
(g) Requirements
Except as specified in paragraph (h) of this
AD: Comply with all required actions and
compliance times specified in, and in
accordance with, EASA AD 2019–0008.
(h) Exceptions to EASA AD 2019–0008
(1) Where EASA AD 2019–0008 refers to
April 14, 2017 (the effective date of EASA
AD 2017–0055, dated March 31, 2017), this
AD requires using the effective date of this
AD.
(2) Where EASA AD 2019–0008 refers to its
effective date, this AD requires using the
effective date of this AD.
(3) Where EASA AD 2019–0008 refers to
flight hours (FH), this AD requires using
hours time-in-service.
(4) Where EASA AD 2019–0008 requires
the modification within 660 flight hours or
23 months, whichever occurs first, this AD
requires the modification within 660 hours
time-in-service instead.
(5) Although the service information
referenced in EASA AD 2019–0008 specifies
to discard certain parts, this AD requires
removing those parts from service instead.
(6) Where the service information
referenced in EASA AD 2019–0008 specifies
to use tooling, equivalent tooling may be
used.
(7) The ‘‘Remarks’’ section of EASA AD
2019–0008 does not apply to this AD.
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(8) Where paragraph (1) states to, ‘‘inspect
the MGB fixed cowling front fittings in
accordance with the instructions of
paragraph 1.E.2 of the applicable inspection
ASB or in accordance with the instructions
of the applicable modification ASB,’’ this AD
requires determining if Airbus Helicopters
Alert Service Bulletin No. 53.00.55, Revision
0, dated March 13, 2017, or Revision 1, dated
December 20, 2018, has or has not been
complied with and following the
instructions, ‘‘For helicopters on which
ALERT SERVICE BULLETIN No. 53.00.55
has not been complied with’’ or ‘‘For
helicopters on which ALERT SERVICE
BULLETIN No. 53.00.55 has been complied
with,’’ as applicable, in paragraph 1.E.2, of
Airbus Helicopters Alert Service Bulletin No.
AS365–53.00.62 or EC155–53A038, each
Revision 0 and dated December 20, 2018
(ASB AS365–53.00.62 or ASB EC155–
53A038), as applicable to your model
helicopter.
(9) Where paragraph (2) of EASA AD 2019–
0008 states to, ‘‘accomplish the applicable
corrective action(s) in accordance with
paragraph 1.E.2 of the applicable inspection
ASB or in accordance with the instructions
of the applicable modification ASB,’’ this AD
requires accomplishing the applicable
corrective actions by following ASB AS365–
53.00.62 or ASB EC155–53A038, as
applicable to your model helicopter.
(10) Where paragraph 3.B.2.e.3 of the
applicable modification ASB referenced in
EASA AD 2019–0008 refers to paragraph
3.B.e.3, this AD requires referring to
paragraph 3.B.3 of ASB AS365–53.00.62 or
ASB EC155–53A038, as applicable to your
model helicopter.
(i) Special Flight Permit
Special flight permits, as described in 14
CFR 21.197 and 21.199, are not allowed.
(j) Alternative Methods of Compliance
(AMOCs)
The Manager, Strategic Policy Rotorcraft
Section, FAA, may approve AMOCs for this
AD. Send your proposal to: Manager,
Strategic Policy Rotorcraft Section, FAA,
10101 Hillwood Pkwy., Fort Worth, TX
76177; telephone 817–222–5110; email
9-ASW-FTW-AMOC-Requests@faa.gov.
(k) Related Information
(1) For EASA AD 2019–0008 contact the
EASA, Konrad-Adenauer-Ufer 3, 50668
Cologne, Germany; telephone +49 221 8999
000; email ADs@easa.europa.eu; internet
www.easa.europa.eu. You may find this
EASA AD on the EASA website at https://
ad.easa.europa.eu. You may view this
material at the FAA, Office of the Regional
Counsel, Southwest Region, 10101 Hillwood
Pkwy., Room 6N–321, Fort Worth, TX 76177.
For information on the availability of this
material at the FAA, call 817–222–5110. This
material may be found in the AD docket on
the internet at https://www.regulations.gov
by searching for and locating Docket No.
FAA–2020–1183.
(2) For more information about this AD,
contact Blaine Williams, Aerospace Engineer,
Los Angeles ACO Branch, Compliance &
Airworthiness Division, 3960 Paramount
Blvd., Lakewood, California 90712; telephone
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562–627–5227; email blaine.williams@
faa.gov.
[Docket No. FAA–2021–0042; Airspace
Docket No. 20–AEA–13]
Administration, 800 Independence
Avenue SW, Washington, DC 20591;
telephone: (202) 267–8783. The Order is
also available for inspection at the
National Archives and Records
Administration (NARA). For
information on the availability of FAA
Order 7400.11E at NARA, email:
fedreg.legal@nara.gov, or go to https://
www.archives.gov/federal-register/cfr/
ibr-locations.html.
FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Paul
Gallant, Rules and Regulations Group,
Office of Policy, Federal Aviation
Administration, 800 Independence
Avenue SW, Washington, DC 20591;
telephone: (202) 267–8783.
SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION:
RIN 2120–AA66
Authority for This Rulemaking
Proposed Amendment VOR Federal
Airway V–487; Eastern New York and
Northern Vermont
The FAA’s authority to issue rules
regarding aviation safety is found in
Title 49 of the United States Code.
Subtitle I, Section 106 describes the
authority of the FAA Administrator.
Subtitle VII, Aviation Programs,
describes in more detail the scope of the
agency’s authority. This rulemaking is
promulgated under the authority
described in Subtitle VII, Part A,
Subpart I, Section 40103. Under that
section, the FAA is charged with
prescribing regulations to assign the use
of the airspace necessary to ensure the
safety of aircraft and the efficient use of
airspace. This regulation is within the
scope of that authority as it would
amend the VOR Federal airway V–487
to match changes in navigation aid
infrastructure.
Issued on January 25, 2021.
Gaetano A. Sciortino,
Deputy Director for Strategic Initiatives,
Compliance & Airworthiness Division,
Aircraft Certification Service.
[FR Doc. 2021–03689 Filed 3–4–21; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE 4910–13–P
DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION
Federal Aviation Administration
14 CFR Part 71
Federal Aviation
Administration (FAA), DOT.
ACTION: Notice of proposed rulemaking
(NPRM).
AGENCY:
This action proposes to
amend VOR Federal airway V–487 in
the vicinity of Glens Falls, NY, and
Burlington, VT. The proposed change
would substitute a radial from the
Burlington, VT, VOR/DME (BTV), in
place of the current Glens Falls, NY,
VOR/DME (GFL) radial, for defining a
navigation fix along the route.
Additionally, this action would remove
segments of V–487 between Burlington,
VT, and St Jean, Canada. These changes
are necessary due to the
decommissioning of the Glens Falls,
NY, VOR/DME, and the
decommissioning of the St Jean, Canada
VOR/DME (YJN).
DATES: Comments must be received on
or before April 19, 2021.
ADDRESSES: Send comments on this
proposal to the U.S. Department of
Transportation, Docket Operations, 1200
New Jersey Avenue SE, West Building
Ground Floor, Room W12–140,
Washington, DC 20590; telephone: 1
(800) 647–5527 or (202) 366–9826. You
must identify FAA Docket No. FAA–
2021–0042; Airspace Docket No. 20–
AEA–13 at the beginning of your
comments. You may also submit
comments through the internet at
https://www.regulations.gov.
FAA Order 7400.11E, Airspace
Designations and Reporting Points, and
subsequent amendments can be viewed
online at https://www.faa.gov/air_
traffic/publications/. For further
information, you can contact the Policy
Group, Federal Aviation
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SUMMARY:
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Comments Invited
Interested parties are invited to
participate in this proposed rulemaking
by submitting such written data, views,
or arguments as they may desire.
Comments that provide the factual basis
supporting the views and suggestions
presented are particularly helpful in
developing reasoned regulatory
decisions on the proposal. Comments
are specifically invited on the overall
regulatory, aeronautical, economic,
environmental, and energy-related
aspects of the proposal.
Communications should identify both
docket numbers (FAA Docket No. FAA–
2021–0042; Airspace Docket No. 20–
AEA–13 and be submitted in triplicate
to the Docket Management Facility (see
ADDRESSES section for address and
phone number). You may also submit
comments through the internet at
https://www.regulations.gov.
Commenters wishing the FAA to
acknowledge receipt of their comments
on this action must submit with those
comments a self-addressed, stamped
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12865
postcard on which the following
statement is made: ‘‘Comments to FAA
Docket No. FAA–2021–0042; Airspace
Docket No. 20–AEA–13.’’ The postcard
will be date/time stamped and returned
to the commenter.
All communications received on or
before the specified comment closing
date will be considered before taking
action on the proposed rule. The
proposal contained in this action may
be changed in light of comments
received. A report summarizing each
substantive public contact with FAA
personnel concerned with this
rulemaking will be filed in the docket.
Availability of NPRM’s
An electronic copy of this document
may be downloaded through the
internet at https://www.regulations.gov.
Recently published rulemaking
documents can also be accessed through
the FAA’s web page at https://
www.faa.gov/air_traffic/publications/
airspace_amendments/.
You may review the public docket
containing the proposal, any comments
received and any final disposition in
person in the Dockets Office (see
ADDRESSES section for address and
phone number) between 9:00 a.m. and
5:00 p.m., Monday through Friday,
except federal holidays. An informal
docket may also be examined during
normal business hours at the office of
the Eastern Service Center, Federal
Aviation Administration, Room 210,
1701 Columbia Ave., College Park, GA
30337.
Availability and Summary of
Documents for Incorporation by
Reference
This document proposes to amend
FAA Order 7400.11E, Airspace
Designations and Reporting Points,
dated July 21, 2020, and effective
September 15, 2020. FAA Order
7400.11E is publicly available as listed
in the ADDRESSES section of this
proposed rule. FAA Order 7400.11E
lists Class A, B, C, D, and E airspace
areas, air traffic service routes, and
reporting points.
The Proposal
The FAA is proposing an amendment
to 14 CFR part 71 to amend VOR
Federal airway V–487 in the vicinity of
Glens Falls, NY, and Burlington, VT.
The proposed change would substitute
a radial from the Burlington, VT, VOR/
DME, in place of the current Glens Falls,
NY, VOR/DME radial, for defining the
ENSON, VT, navigation fix. Currently,
the ENSON, VT, navigation fix is
defined by the intersection of the
Cambridge, NY, VOR/DME (CAM) 002°
E:\FR\FM\05MRP1.SGM
05MRP1
]]>Agencies
[Federal Register Volume 86, Number 42 (Friday, March 5, 2021)]
[Proposed Rules]
[Pages 12862-12865]
From the Federal Register Online via the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]
[FR Doc No: 2021-03689]
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DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION
Federal Aviation Administration
14 CFR Part 39
[Docket No. FAA-2020-1183; Project Identifier 2019-SW-008-AD]
RIN 2120-AA64
Airworthiness Directives; Airbus Helicopters
AGENCY: Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), DOT.
ACTION: Notice of proposed rulemaking (NPRM).
-----------------------------------------------------------------------
SUMMARY: The FAA proposes to adopt a new airworthiness directive (AD)
for certain Airbus Helicopters Model EC 155B, EC155B1, SA-365N, SA-
365N1, AS-365N2, and AS 365 N3 helicopters, as identified in a European
Aviation Safety Agency (now European Union Aviation Safety Agency)
(EASA) AD. This proposed AD was prompted by a report of an in-flight
loss of engine and main gearbox (MGB) cowlings. This proposed AD would
require inspecting the MGB fixed cowling front fitting (MGB front
fitting), and depending on findings, corrective action. This proposed
AD would also require a new modification, which would constitute a
terminating action for the inspection. These proposed AD requirements
are as specified in an EASA AD, which is proposed for incorporation by
reference (IBR). 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 April 19,
2021.
ADDRESSES: You may send comments, using the procedures found in 14 CFR
11.43 and 11.45, by any of the following methods:
Federal eRulemaking Portal: Go to https://www.regulations.gov. Follow the instructions for submitting comments.
Fax: 202-493-2251.
Mail: U.S. Department of Transportation, Docket
Operations, M-30, West Building Ground Floor, Room W12-140, 1200 New
Jersey Avenue SE, Washington, DC 20590.
Hand Delivery: Deliver to Mail address above between 9
a.m. and 5 p.m., Monday through Friday, except Federal holidays.
For material that is proposed for IBR in this AD, contact the EASA,
Konrad-Adenauer-Ufer 3, 50668 Cologne, Germany; telephone +49 221 8999
000; email [email protected]; internet www.easa.europa.eu. You may
find this material on the EASA website at https://ad.easa.europa.eu.
You may view this material at the FAA, Office of the Regional Counsel,
Southwest Region, 10101 Hillwood Pkwy., Room 6N-321, Fort Worth, TX
76177. For information on the availability of this material at the FAA,
call 817-222-5110. It is also available in the AD docket on the
internet at https://www.regulations.gov by searching for and locating
Docket No. FAA-2020-1183.
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-
1183; or in person at Docket Operations between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m.,
Monday through Friday, except Federal holidays. The AD docket contains
this NPRM, any comments received, and other information. The street
address for Docket Operations is listed above. Comments will be
available in the AD docket shortly after receipt.
FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Blaine Williams, Aerospace Engineer,
Los Angles ACO Branch, Compliance & Airworthiness Division, 3960
Paramount Blvd., Lakewood, California 90712; telephone 562-627-5371;
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-2020-1183; Project Identifier
2019-SW-008-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
[[Page 12863]]
information as described in 14 CFR 11.35, the FAA will post all
comments received, without change, to https://www.regulations.gov,
including any personal information you provide. The agency will also
post a report summarizing each substantive verbal contact received
about this 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
Blaine Williams, Aerospace Engineer, Los Angeles ACO Branch, Compliance
& Airworthiness Division, 3960 Paramount Blvd., Lakewood, California
90712; telephone 562-627-5371; email [email protected]. Any
commentary that the FAA receives that is not specifically designated as
CBI will be placed in the public docket for this rulemaking.
Discussion
The EASA, which is the Technical Agent for the Member States of the
European Union, has issued EASA AD 2019-0008, dated January 22, 2019
(EASA AD 2019-0008), to correct an unsafe condition for certain Airbus
Helicopters (AH), formerly Eurocopter, Eurocopter France, Aerospatiale,
Model EC 155 B, EC 155 B1, SA 365 N, SA 365 N1, AS 365 N2, and AS 365
N3 helicopters.
This proposed AD was prompted by reports of an in-flight loss of
engine and MGB cowlings. Subsequent investigations revealed that the
MGB cowling attachment fittings failed because of mounting stress in
the MGB front fitting and air intake bulkhead. The FAA is proposing
this AD to address failure of the MGB front fitting and subsequent
detachment of the MGB or engine cowlings. See EASA AD 2019-0008 for
additional background information.
Related Service Information Under 1 CFR Part 51
EASA AD 2019-0008 requires inspecting the MGB front fittings within
110 flight hours after April 14, 2017 (the effective date of EASA AD
2017-0055, dated March 31, 2017). If there is a discrepancy, the EASA
AD requires applicable corrective action(s) before next flight. EASA AD
2019-0008 also requires modification of the MGB fixed cowling
attachments within 660 flight hours or 23 months, whichever occurs
first, after the effective date described in EASA AD 2019-0008.
Accomplishing the modification constitutes a terminating action for the
required inspection.
The FAA also reviewed Airbus Helicopters Alert Service Bulletin
(ASB) No. AS365-53.00.62 and EC155-53A038, each Revision 0 and dated
December 20, 2018 (ASB AS365-53.00.62 and ASB EC155-53A038). ASB AS365-
53.00.62 applies to Model AS365-series helicopters. ASB EC155-53A038
applies to Model EC155-series helicopters. This service information
specifies replacing the front bracket, inspecting for stress of the MGB
fixed cowlings on the radiator bulkhead, and installing an additional
locking system.
This material 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.
FAA's Determination and Requirements of This Proposed AD
These products have been approved by the aviation authority of
another country, and are approved for operation in the United States.
Pursuant to the bilateral agreement with the State of Design Authority,
the FAA has been notified of the unsafe condition described in the EASA
AD referenced above. The FAA is proposing this AD after evaluating all
the relevant information and determining the unsafe condition described
previously is likely to exist or develop in other products of these
same type designs.
Proposed AD Requirements
This proposed AD would require accomplishing the actions specified
in EASA AD 2019-0008, described previously, as incorporated by
reference, except for any differences identified as exceptions in the
regulatory text of this proposed AD and except as discussed under
``Differences Between this Proposed AD and the EASA AD.''
Explanation of Required Compliance Information
In the FAA's ongoing efforts to improve the efficiency of the AD
process, the FAA initially worked with Airbus and EASA to develop a
process to use certain EASA ADs as the primary source of information
for compliance with requirements for corresponding FAA ADs. The FAA has
since coordinated with other manufacturers and civil aviation
authorities (CAAs) to use this process. As a result, EASA AD 2019-0008
will be incorporated by reference in the FAA final rule. This proposed
AD would, therefore, require compliance with EASA AD 2019-0008 in its
entirety, through that incorporation, except for any differences
identified as exceptions in the regulatory text of this proposed AD.
Using common terms that are the same as the heading of a particular
section in the EASA AD does not mean that operators need comply only
with that section. For example, where the AD requirement refers to
``all required actions and compliance times,'' compliance with this AD
requirement is not limited to the section titled ``Required Action(s)
and Compliance Time(s)'' in the EASA AD. Service information specified
in EASA AD 2019-0008 that is required for compliance with EASA AD 2019-
0008 will be available on the internet at https://www.regulations.gov
by searching for and locating Docket No. FAA-2020-1183 after the FAA
final rule is published.
Costs of Compliance
The FAA estimates that this proposed AD affects 19 helicopters of
U.S. Registry. Labor rates are estimated at $85 per work-hour. Based on
these numbers, the FAA estimates that operators may incur the following
costs in order to comply with this proposed AD.
Inspecting the MGB front fittings would take about 2 work-hours for
an estimated cost of $170 per helicopter and $3,230 for the U.S. fleet.
If required, replacing an MGB front fitting would take about 2 work-
hours and parts would cost about $590 for an estimated total cost of
$760 per fitting. Other repairs could take up to 8 work-hours
(excluding drying time) and parts would cost a minimal amount for an
estimated cost of up to $680 per helicopter.
Modifying the MGB fixed cowling attachments would take about 5
work-hours and parts would cost about $630 for an estimated cost of
$1,055 per helicopter and $20,045 for the U.S. fleet.
[[Page 12864]]
Authority for This Rulemaking
Title 49 of the United States Code specifies the FAA's authority to
issue rules on aviation safety. Subtitle I, section 106, describes the
authority of the FAA Administrator. Subtitle VII: Aviation Programs,
describes in more detail the scope of the Agency's authority.
The FAA is issuing this rulemaking under the authority described in
Subtitle VII, Part A, Subpart III, Section 44701: General requirements.
Under that section, Congress charges the FAA with promoting safe flight
of civil aircraft in air commerce by prescribing regulations for
practices, methods, and procedures the Administrator finds necessary
for safety in air commerce. This regulation is within the scope of that
authority because it addresses an unsafe condition that is likely to
exist or develop on products identified in this rulemaking action.
Regulatory Findings
The FAA determined that this proposed AD would not have federalism
implications under Executive Order 13132. This proposed AD would not
have a substantial direct effect on the States, on the relationship
between the national Government and the States, or on the distribution
of power and responsibilities among the various levels of government.
For the reasons discussed above, I certify this proposed
regulation:
(1) Is not a ``significant regulatory action'' under Executive
Order 12866,
(2) 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 Proposed Amendment
Accordingly, under the authority delegated to me by the
Administrator, the FAA proposes to amend 14 CFR part 39 as follows:
PART 39--AIRWORTHINESS DIRECTIVES
0
1. The authority citation for part 39 continues to read as follows:
Authority: 49 U.S.C. 106(g), 40113, 44701.
Sec. 39.13 [Amended]
0
2. The FAA amends Sec. 39.13 by adding the following new airworthiness
directive:
Airbus Helicopters: Docket No. FAA-2020-1183; Project Identifier
2019-SW-008-AD.
(a) Comments Due Date
The FAA must receive comments by April 19, 2021.
(b) Affected Airworthiness Directives (ADs)
None.
(c) Applicability
This AD applies to Airbus Helicopters Model EC 155B, EC155B1,
SA-365N, SA-365N1, AS-365N2, and AS 365 N3 helicopters, certificated
in any category, as identified in European Aviation Safety Agency
(EASA) AD 2019-0008, dated January 22, 2019 (EASA AD 2019-0008).
(d) Subject
Joint Aircraft System Component (JASC) Code: 7110, Engine
Cowling System.
(e) Reason
This AD was prompted by a report of an in-flight loss of main
gearbox (MGB) and engine cowlings. The FAA is issuing this AD to
address a failure of the MGB fixed cowling front fitting, and
subsequent MGB cowling or engine cowling detachment, which could
result in damage to the helicopter, loss of helicopter control, and
possible injury to persons on the ground.
(f) Compliance
Comply with this AD within the compliance times specified,
unless already done.
(g) Requirements
Except as specified in paragraph (h) of this AD: Comply with all
required actions and compliance times specified in, and in
accordance with, EASA AD 2019-0008.
(h) Exceptions to EASA AD 2019-0008
(1) Where EASA AD 2019-0008 refers to April 14, 2017 (the
effective date of EASA AD 2017-0055, dated March 31, 2017), this AD
requires using the effective date of this AD.
(2) Where EASA AD 2019-0008 refers to its effective date, this
AD requires using the effective date of this AD.
(3) Where EASA AD 2019-0008 refers to flight hours (FH), this AD
requires using hours time-in-service.
(4) Where EASA AD 2019-0008 requires the modification within 660
flight hours or 23 months, whichever occurs first, this AD requires
the modification within 660 hours time-in-service instead.
(5) Although the service information referenced in EASA AD 2019-
0008 specifies to discard certain parts, this AD requires removing
those parts from service instead.
(6) Where the service information referenced in EASA AD 2019-
0008 specifies to use tooling, equivalent tooling may be used.
(7) The ``Remarks'' section of EASA AD 2019-0008 does not apply
to this AD.
(8) Where paragraph (1) states to, ``inspect the MGB fixed
cowling front fittings in accordance with the instructions of
paragraph 1.E.2 of the applicable inspection ASB or in accordance
with the instructions of the applicable modification ASB,'' this AD
requires determining if Airbus Helicopters Alert Service Bulletin
No. 53.00.55, Revision 0, dated March 13, 2017, or Revision 1, dated
December 20, 2018, has or has not been complied with and following
the instructions, ``For helicopters on which ALERT SERVICE BULLETIN
No. 53.00.55 has not been complied with'' or ``For helicopters on
which ALERT SERVICE BULLETIN No. 53.00.55 has been complied with,''
as applicable, in paragraph 1.E.2, of Airbus Helicopters Alert
Service Bulletin No. AS365-53.00.62 or EC155-53A038, each Revision 0
and dated December 20, 2018 (ASB AS365-53.00.62 or ASB EC155-
53A038), as applicable to your model helicopter.
(9) Where paragraph (2) of EASA AD 2019-0008 states to,
``accomplish the applicable corrective action(s) in accordance with
paragraph 1.E.2 of the applicable inspection ASB or in accordance
with the instructions of the applicable modification ASB,'' this AD
requires accomplishing the applicable corrective actions by
following ASB AS365-53.00.62 or ASB EC155-53A038, as applicable to
your model helicopter.
(10) Where paragraph 3.B.2.e.3 of the applicable modification
ASB referenced in EASA AD 2019-0008 refers to paragraph 3.B.e.3,
this AD requires referring to paragraph 3.B.3 of ASB AS365-53.00.62
or ASB EC155-53A038, as applicable to your model helicopter.
(i) Special Flight Permit
Special flight permits, as described in 14 CFR 21.197 and
21.199, are not allowed.
(j) Alternative Methods of Compliance (AMOCs)
The Manager, Strategic Policy Rotorcraft Section, FAA, may
approve AMOCs for this AD. Send your proposal to: Manager, Strategic
Policy Rotorcraft Section, FAA, 10101 Hillwood Pkwy., Fort Worth, TX
76177; telephone 817-222-5110; email [email protected].
(k) Related Information
(1) For EASA AD 2019-0008 contact the EASA, Konrad-Adenauer-Ufer
3, 50668 Cologne, Germany; telephone +49 221 8999 000; email
[email protected]; internet www.easa.europa.eu. You may find this
EASA AD on the EASA website at https://ad.easa.europa.eu. You may
view this material at the FAA, Office of the Regional Counsel,
Southwest Region, 10101 Hillwood Pkwy., Room 6N-321, Fort Worth, TX
76177. For information on the availability of this material at the
FAA, call 817-222-5110. This material may be found in the AD docket
on the internet at https://www.regulations.gov by searching for and
locating Docket No. FAA-2020-1183.
(2) For more information about this AD, contact Blaine Williams,
Aerospace Engineer, Los Angeles ACO Branch, Compliance &
Airworthiness Division, 3960 Paramount Blvd., Lakewood, California
90712; telephone
[[Page 12865]]
562-627-5227; email [email protected].
Issued on January 25, 2021.
Gaetano A. Sciortino,
Deputy Director for Strategic Initiatives, Compliance & Airworthiness
Division, Aircraft Certification Service.
[FR Doc. 2021-03689 Filed 3-4-21; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE 4910-13-P
