Airworthiness Directives; Pilatus Aircraft Ltd. Airplanes, 13838-13841 [2021-01625]

Download as PDF 13838 Federal Register / Vol. 86, No. 46 / Thursday, March 11, 2021 / Proposed Rules Regulatory Findings The FAA determined that this proposed AD would not have federalism implications under Executive Order 13132. This proposed AD would not have a substantial direct effect on the States, on the relationship between the national Government and the States, or on the distribution of power and responsibilities among the various levels of government. For the reasons discussed above, I certify this proposed regulation: (1) Is not a ‘‘significant regulatory action’’ under Executive Order 12866, (2) Would not affect intrastate aviation in Alaska, and (3) Would not have a significant economic impact, positive or negative, on a substantial number of small entities under the criteria of the Regulatory Flexibility Act. List of Subjects in 14 CFR Part 39 Air transportation, Aircraft, Aviation safety, Incorporation by reference, Safety. The Proposed Amendment Accordingly, under the authority delegated to me by the Administrator, the FAA proposes to amend 14 CFR part 39 as follows: 1. The authority citation for part 39 continues to read as follows: ■ Authority: 49 U.S.C. 106(g), 40113, 44701. [Amended] 2. The FAA amends § 39.13 by adding the following new airworthiness directive: ■ Airbus SAS: Docket No. FAA–2021–0140; Project Identifier MCAI–2020–01531–T. (a) Comments Due Date The FAA must receive comments on this airworthiness directive (AD) action by April 26, 2021. khammond on DSKJM1Z7X2PROD with PROPOSALS (b) Affected ADs None. (c) Applicability This AD applies to the Airbus SAS airplanes specified in paragraphs (c)(1) through (6) of this AD, certificated in any category, as identified in European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) AD 2020– 0255, dated November 13, 2020 (EASA AD 2020–0255). (1) Model A330–201, –202, –203, –223, and –243 airplanes. (2) Model A330–301, –302, –303, –321, –322, –323, –341, –342, and –343 airplanes. (3) Model A340–211, –212, and –213 airplanes. (4) Model A340–311, –312, and –313 airplanes. VerDate Sep<11>2014 16:33 Mar 10, 2021 Jkt 253001 (d) Subject Air Transport Association (ATA) of America Code 25, Equipment/furnishings. (e) Reason This AD was prompted by reports that, for certain lower deck mobile crew rest (LDMCR) units, the connection of a certain halon outlet tube to the outlet of a certain fire extinguisher bottle may be incorrect. The FAA is issuing this AD to address this condition, which, in case of a fire inside the LDMCR, could lead to disconnection of the tube, possibly resulting in reduced concentration of fire suppressing agent at any location inside the LDMCR. (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 2020–0255. (h) Exceptions to EASA AD 2020–0255 (1) Where EASA AD 2020–0255 refers to its effective date, this AD requires using the effective date of this AD. (2) The ‘‘Remarks’’ section of EASA AD 2020–0255 does not apply to this AD. (i) No Reporting Requirement Although the service information referenced in EASA AD 2020–0255 specifies to submit certain information to the manufacturer, this AD does not include that requirement. PART 39—AIRWORTHINESS DIRECTIVES § 39.13 (5) Model A340–541 airplanes. (6) Model A340–642 airplanes. (j) Other FAA AD Provisions The following provisions also apply to this AD: (1) Alternative Methods of Compliance (AMOCs): The Manager, Large Aircraft Section, International Validation 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 responsible Flight Standards Office, as appropriate. If sending information directly to the Large Aircraft Section, International Validation Branch, send it to the attention of the person identified in paragraph (k)(2) of this AD. Information may be emailed to: 9-AVS-AIR730-AMOC@faa.gov. Before using any approved AMOC, notify your appropriate principal inspector, or lacking a principal inspector, the manager of the responsible Flight Standards Office. (2) Contacting the Manufacturer: For any requirement in this AD to obtain instructions from a manufacturer, the instructions must be accomplished using a method approved by the Manager, Large Aircraft Section, International Validation Branch, FAA; or EASA; or Airbus SAS’s EASA Design Organization Approval (DOA). If approved by the DOA, the approval must include the DOA-authorized signature. PO 00000 Frm 00011 Fmt 4702 Sfmt 4702 (3) Required for Compliance (RC): Except as required by paragraph (j)(2) of this AD, if any service information contains procedures or tests that are identified as RC, those procedures and tests must be done to comply with this AD; any procedures or tests that are not identified as RC are recommended. Those procedures and tests that are not identified as RC may be deviated from using accepted methods in accordance with the operator’s maintenance or inspection program without obtaining approval of an AMOC, provided the procedures and tests identified as RC can be done and the airplane can be put back in an airworthy condition. Any substitutions or changes to procedures or tests identified as RC require approval of an AMOC. (k) Related Information (1) For information about EASA AD 2020– 0255, contact the EASA, Konrad-AdenauerUfer 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, 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. 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–2021–0140. (2) For more information about this AD, contact Vladimir Ulyanov, Aerospace Engineer, Large Aircraft Section, International Validation Branch, FAA, 2200 South 216th St., Des Moines, WA 98198; telephone and fax 206–231–3229; email vladimir.ulyanov@faa.gov. Issued on March 5, 2021. Lance T. Gant, Director, Compliance & Airworthiness Division, Aircraft Certification Service. [FR Doc. 2021–05008 Filed 3–10–21; 8:45 am] BILLING CODE 4910–13–P DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION Federal Aviation Administration 14 CFR Part 39 [Docket No. FAA–2020–0812; Project Identifier MCAI–2020–01317–A] RIN 2120–AA64 Airworthiness Directives; Pilatus Aircraft Ltd. Airplanes Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), DOT. ACTION: Notice of proposed rulemaking (NPRM). AGENCY: The FAA proposes to adopt a new airworthiness directive (AD) for all Pilatus Aircraft Ltd. (Pilatus) Model PC– 24 airplanes. This proposed AD results SUMMARY: E:\FR\FM\11MRP1.SGM 11MRP1 Federal Register / Vol. 86, No. 46 / Thursday, March 11, 2021 / Proposed Rules from mandatory continuing airworthiness information (MCAI) originated by an aviation authority of another country to identify and correct an unsafe condition on an aviation product. The MCAI identifies the unsafe condition as the need to revise certain airworthiness limitations and certification maintenance instructions. The FAA is proposing this AD to address the unsafe condition on these products. The FAA must receive comments on this proposed AD by April 26, 2021. ADDRESSES: You may send comments 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: U.S. Department of Transportation, Docket Operations, M– 30, West Building Ground Floor, Room W12–140, 1200 New Jersey Avenue SE, Washington, DC 20590, between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m., Monday through Friday, except Federal holidays. • For service information identified in this proposed AD, contact Pilatus Aircraft Ltd., Customer Support General Aviation, CH–6371 Stans, Switzerland; phone: +41 848 24 7 365; email: techsupport.ch@pilatus-aircraft.com; website: https://www.pilatusaircraft.com. You may view this service information at the FAA, Airworthiness Products Section, Technical Innovation Policy Branch, 901 Locust, Kansas City, MO 64106. For information on the availability of this material at the FAA, call (816) 329–4148. DATES: khammond on DSKJM1Z7X2PROD with PROPOSALS Examining the AD Docket You may examine the AD docket at https://www.regulations.gov by searching for and locating Docket No. FAA–2020–0812; 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: Doug Rudolph, Aviation Safety Engineer, FAA, General Aviation & Rotorcraft Section, International Validation Branch, 901 Locust, Room 301, Kansas City, Missouri 64106; phone: (816) 329–4059; fax: (816) 329– 4090; email: doug.rudolph@faa.gov. SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: VerDate Sep<11>2014 16:33 Mar 10, 2021 Jkt 253001 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 Number FAA–2020–0812; Project Identifier MCAI–2020–01317–A’’ at the beginning of your comments. The most helpful comments reference a specific portion of the proposal, explain the reason for any recommended change, and include supporting data. The FAA will consider all comments received by the closing date and may amend this proposal because of those comments. Except for Confidential Business Information (CBI) as described in the following paragraph, and other information as described in 14 CFR 11.35, the FAA will post all comments received, without change, to https:// www.regulations.gov, including any personal information you provide. The agency will also post a report summarizing each substantive verbal contact received about this NPRM. Confidential Business Information CBI is commercial or financial information that is both customarily and actually treated as private by its owner. Under the Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) (5 U.S.C. 552), CBI is exempt from public disclosure. If your comments responsive to this NPRM contain commercial or financial information that is customarily treated as private, that you actually treat as private, and that is relevant or responsive to this NPRM, it is important that you clearly designate the submitted comments as CBI. Please mark each page of your submission containing CBI as ‘‘PROPIN.’’ The FAA will treat such marked submissions as confidential under the FOIA, and they will not be placed in the public docket of this AD. Submissions containing CBI should be sent to Doug Rudolph, Aviation Safety Engineer, FAA, General Aviation & Rotorcraft Section, International Validation Branch, 901 Locust, Room 301, Kansas City, Missouri 64106. Any commentary that the FAA receives which is not specifically designated as CBI will be placed in the public docket for this rulemaking. Background The European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA), which is the Technical Agent for the Member States of the European Union, has issued EASA AD No. 2020–0202, dated September 22, 2020 (referred to after this as ‘‘the MCAI’’), to correct an unsafe condition PO 00000 Frm 00012 Fmt 4702 Sfmt 4702 13839 for Pilatus Model PC–24 airplanes. The MCAI states: The airworthiness limitations and certification maintenance instructions for Pilatus PC–24 aeroplanes, which are approved by EASA, are currently defined and published in Pilatus PC–24 AMM [Aircraft Maintenance Manual] Chapter 04–00–00. These instructions have been identified as mandatory for continued airworthiness. Failure to accomplish these instructions could result in an unsafe condition. Previously, EASA issued AD 2020–0074, [dated March 27, 2020,] requiring the actions described in the Pilatus PC–24 AMM Chapter 04–00–00, Document Number 02378 Issue 005 at Revision 14. Since that AD was issued, Pilatus published the ALS [Airworthiness Limitations section, at Issue 005 Revision 19], which contains the following new and/ or more restrictive tasks as specified in Mandatory Structural Inspection Items data module PC24–AA04–20–0000–00A–000A–A Issue 005 Revision 00: —AL–27–00–025 and AL–27–00–026: Control column sprocket gear assembly, and —AL–27–00–027: Control wheel column assembly. In addition, Airworthiness Limitations Description data module PC24–A–A04–00– 0000–00A–040A–A Issue 008 Revision 00 includes: —The new limit of validity following the completion of the Full Scale Fatigue Test, and —Usage assumptions/conditions for operations on unpaved and grass runaways. EASA AD No. 2020–0074, dated March 27, 2020, required revising the Airworthiness Limitations section (ALS) to correct an error in the horizontal stabilizer primary trim system secondary power source operational test. The MCAI retains the requirements of EASA AD No. 2020–0074, dated March 27, 2020, which the MCAI supersedes, and requires the additional revisions discussed previously. You may examine the MCAI at https:// www.regulations.gov by searching for and locating Docket No. FAA–2020– 0812. Related Service Information Under 1 CFR Part 51 The FAA reviewed Chapter 4, Airworthiness Limitations, of Pilatus PC–24 Aircraft Maintenance Manual, data module PC24–A–A04–00–0000– 00A–040A–A, Issue 008, Revision 00, dated May 26, 2020. This service information contains the parent data module and the new limit of validity and updates the usage assumptions and conditions for operations on unpaved and grass runways. This document also contains the revised subsections with revised maintenance actions. E:\FR\FM\11MRP1.SGM 11MRP1 13840 Federal Register / Vol. 86, No. 46 / Thursday, March 11, 2021 / Proposed Rules The FAA also reviewed Pilatus PC–24 Aircraft Maintenance Manual Horizontal stabilizer primary trim system secondary power source— Operation test, data module PC24–A– E27–40–0000–01A–320A–A, Issue 007, Revision 00, dated September 25, 2019. This service information contains revised procedures for task number AL– 27–40–022 in the CMR. 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. FAA’s Determination This product has been approved by the aviation authority of another country, and is approved for operation in the United States. Pursuant to our bilateral agreement with this State of Design Authority, it has notified us of the unsafe condition described in the MCAI and service information referenced above. The FAA is issuing this NPRM after determining that the unsafe condition described previously is likely to exist or develop on other products of the same type design. khammond on DSKJM1Z7X2PROD with PROPOSALS Proposed AD Requirements in This NPRM This proposed AD would require replacing the revised sections of the ALS described previously into the existing AMM or instructions for continued airworthiness. Updating the entire ALS, including all subsections and referenced data modules, would be acceptable for compliance with this proposed AD. An owner/operator (pilot) may incorporate the ALS revisions, and the owner/operator must enter compliance with the applicable paragraphs of the AD into the aircraft records in accordance with 14 CFR 43.9(a)(1) through (4) and 14 CFR 91.417(a)(2)(v). This is an exception to our standard maintenance regulations. Costs of Compliance The FAA estimates that this proposed AD would affect 42 products of U.S. registry. The FAA also estimates that it would take about 1 work-hour per product to comply with the requirements of this proposed AD. The average labor rate is $85 per work-hour. Based on these figures, the FAA estimates the cost of the proposed AD on U.S. operators would be $3,570 or $85 per product. 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 VerDate Sep<11>2014 16:33 Mar 10, 2021 Jkt 253001 the FAA Administrator. Subtitle VII: Aviation Programs, describes in more detail the scope of the Agency’s authority. The FAA is issuing this rulemaking under the authority described in Subtitle VII, Part A, Subpart III, Section 44701: General requirements. Under that section, Congress charges the FAA with promoting safe flight of civil aircraft in air commerce by prescribing regulations for practices, methods, and procedures the Administrator finds necessary for safety in air commerce. This regulation is within the scope of that authority because it addresses an unsafe condition that is likely to exist or develop on products identified in this rulemaking action. Regulatory Findings The FAA determined that this proposed AD would not have federalism implications under Executive Order 13132. This proposed AD would not have a substantial direct effect on the States, on the relationship between the national government and the States, or on the distribution of power and responsibilities among the various levels of government. For the reasons discussed above, I certify this proposed regulation: (1) Is not a ‘‘significant regulatory action’’ under Executive Order 12866, (2) Would not affect intrastate aviation in Alaska, and (3) Would not have a significant economic impact, positive or negative, on a substantial number of small entities under the criteria of the Regulatory Flexibility Act. List of Subjects in 14 CFR Part 39 Air transportation, Aircraft, Aviation safety, Incorporation by reference, Safety. The Proposed Amendment Accordingly, under the authority delegated to me by the Administrator, the FAA proposes to amend 14 CFR part 39 as follows: PART 39—AIRWORTHINESS DIRECTIVES 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: ■ Pilatus Aircraft Ltd.: Docket No. FAA–2020– 0812; Project Identifier MCAI–2020– 01317–A. PO 00000 Frm 00013 Fmt 4702 Sfmt 4702 (a) Comments Due Date The FAA must receive comments on this airworthiness directive (AD) by April 26, 2021. (b) Affected ADs None. (c) Applicability This AD applies to Pilatus Aircraft Ltd. Model PC–24 airplanes, all serial numbers, certificated in any category. (d) Subject Joint Aircraft System Component (JASC) Code 2740: Stabilizer Control System. (e) Reason This AD was prompted by the need to revise the Airworthiness Limitations section (ALS) of the existing aircraft maintenance manual (AMM) to add new and more restrictive tasks for the control column sprocket gear assembly and control wheel column assembly, to address the new limit of validity and update the usage assumptions and conditions for operations on unpaved and grass runways, and to correct an error in the horizontal stabilizer primary trim system secondary power source operational test. The FAA is issuing this AD to prevent reduction in the structural integrity of the airframe and components, as well as an unrecognized failure of the manual pitch trim. These conditions, if not addressed, could result in loss of airplane control. (f) Actions and Compliance (1) Before further flight, unless already done, revise the ALS of the existing AMM or instructions for continued airworthiness (ICA) for your airplane by incorporating the following documents. (i) Pilatus PC–24 Aircraft Maintenance Manual, Airworthiness Limitations, AMM data module PC24–A–A04–00–0000–00A– 040A–A, Issue 008, Revision 00, dated May 26, 2020. (ii) Pilatus PC–24 Aircraft Maintenance Manual, Mandatory structural inspection items, data module PC24–A–A04–20–0000– 00A–000A–A, Issue 005, Revision 00, dated May 26, 2020. (iii) Pilatus PC–24 Aircraft Maintenance Manual, Certification maintenance requirements, data module PC24–A–A04–30– 0000–00A–000A–A, Issue 007, Revision 00, dated October 14, 2019. (iv) Pilatus PC–24 Aircraft Maintenance Manual, Horizontal stabilizer primary trim system secondary power source—Operation test, data module PC24–A–E27–40–0000– 01A–320A–A, Issue 007, Revision 00, dated September 25, 2019. Your ALS must require this procedure for task number AL–27–40– 022 in the certification maintenance requirements. Note 1 to paragraph (f)(1) of this AD: Pilatus PC–24 Aircraft Maintenance Manual, Airworthiness Limitations, AMM data module PC24–A–A04–00–0000–00A–040A– A, Issue 008, Revision 00, dated May 26, 2020, is the parent data module for chapter 4 of the PC–24 AMM and consists of four subsections (sub-data modules). The parent data module and four sub-data modules E:\FR\FM\11MRP1.SGM 11MRP1 Federal Register / Vol. 86, No. 46 / Thursday, March 11, 2021 / Proposed Rules comprise the complete ALS of the PC–24 Aircraft Maintenance Manual. Incorporating Pilatus PC–24 Aircraft Maintenance Manual, Airworthiness Limitations, AMM data module PC24–A–A04–00–0000–00A–040A– A, Issue 008 Revision 00, dated May 26, 2020, and all four subsections listed in Section 1 General, is acceptable, but not required, for compliance with this AD. (2) As of the effective date of this AD, except as provided in paragraph (g) of this AD, no alternative replacement times, inspection intervals, or tasks may be approved for the affected parts. (3) The actions required by paragraph (f)(1) of this AD may be performed by the owner/ operator (pilot) holding at least a private pilot certificate and must be entered into the aircraft records showing compliance with this AD in accordance with 14 CFR 43.9(a)(1) through (4), and 14 CFR 91.417(a)(2)(v). The record must be maintained as required by 14 CFR 91.417, 121.380, or 135.439. (g) Alternative Methods of Compliance (AMOCs) The Manager, International Validation Branch, FAA, has the authority to approve AMOCs for this AD, if requested using the procedures found in 14 CFR 39.19. Send information to Doug Rudolph, Aerospace Engineer, FAA, General Aviation & Rotorcraft Section, International Validation Branch, 901 Locust, Room 301, Kansas City, Missouri 64106; phone: (816) 329–4059; fax: (816) 329–4090; email: doug.rudolph@faa.gov. Before using any approved AMOC on any airplane to which the AMOC applies, notify your appropriate principal inspector (PI) in the FAA Flight Standards District Office (FSDO), or lacking a PI, your local FSDO. 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. khammond on DSKJM1Z7X2PROD with PROPOSALS (h) Related Information Refer to MCAI European Union Aviation Safety Agency AD No. 2020–0202, dated September 22, 2020 for related information. You may examine the MCAI at https:// www.regulations.gov by searching for and locating Docket No. FAA–2020–0812. For service information related to this AD, contact Pilatus Aircraft Ltd., Customer Support General Aviation, CH–6371 Stans, Switzerland; phone: +41 848 24 7 365; email: techsupport.ch@pilatus-aircraft.com; website: https://www.pilatus-aircraft.com. You may review this referenced service information at the FAA, Airworthiness Products Section, Technical Innovation Policy Branch, 901 Locust, Kansas City, Missouri 64106. For information on the availability of this material at the FAA, call (816) 329–4148. Issued on January 14, 2021. Lance T. Gant, Director, Compliance & Airworthiness Division, Aircraft Certification Service. [FR Doc. 2021–01625 Filed 3–10–21; 8:45 am] BILLING CODE 4910–13–P VerDate Sep<11>2014 16:33 Mar 10, 2021 Jkt 253001 DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION Federal Aviation Administration 14 CFR Part 39 [Docket No. FAA–2021–0141; Project Identifier MCAI–2020–01162–T] RIN 2120–AA64 Airworthiness Directives; Airbus Defense and Space S.A. (Formerly Known as Construcciones Aeronauticas, S.A.) 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 Airbus Defense and Space S.A. Model C–212–CB, C–212–CC, C–212– CD, C–212–CE, C–212–CF, C–212–DE, and C–212–DF airplanes. This proposed AD was prompted by a report of cracks on the left-hand (LH) and right-hand (RH) side fuselage skin and on frame (FR) 5 underneath the skin, near the leading edge of the wing. This proposed AD would require repetitive inspections of the LH and RH side center wing fairings at FR 5, around the wing leading edge for discrepancies (cracks) and repair, as specified in a European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) AD, which is proposed for incorporation by reference. The FAA is proposing this AD to address the unsafe condition on these products. DATES: The FAA must receive comments on this proposed AD by April 26, 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 will be incorporated by reference (IBR) in this AD, contact the EASA, Konrad-Adenauer-Ufer 3, 50668 Cologne, Germany; phone: +49 221 8999 000; email: ADs@ easa.europa.eu; internet: www.easa.europa.eu. You may find this IBR material on the EASA website at https://ad.easa.europa.eu. You may SUMMARY: PO 00000 Frm 00014 Fmt 4702 Sfmt 4702 13841 view this IBR material 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. It is also available in the AD docket on the internet at https:// www.regulations.gov by searching for and locating Docket No. FAA–2021– 0141. 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–2021– 0141; 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: Shahram Daneshmandi, Aerospace Engineer, Large Aircraft Section, International Validation Branch, FAA, 2200 South 216th St., Des Moines, WA 98198; phone and fax: 206–231–3220; email: shahram.daneshmandi@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–2021–0141; Project Identifier MCAI–2020–01162–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 the closing date and may amend the proposal because of those comments. Except for Confidential Business Information (CBI) as described in the following paragraph, and other information as described in 14 CFR 11.35, the FAA will post all comments received, without change, to https:// www.regulations.gov, including any personal information you provide. The agency will also post a report summarizing each substantive verbal contact received about this proposed AD. 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 E:\FR\FM\11MRP1.SGM 11MRP1

Agencies

[Federal Register Volume 86, Number 46 (Thursday, March 11, 2021)]
[Proposed Rules]
[Pages 13838-13841]
From the Federal Register Online via the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]
[FR Doc No: 2021-01625]


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DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION

Federal Aviation Administration

14 CFR Part 39

[Docket No. FAA-2020-0812; Project Identifier MCAI-2020-01317-A]
RIN 2120-AA64


Airworthiness Directives; Pilatus Aircraft Ltd. Airplanes

AGENCY: Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), DOT.

ACTION: Notice of proposed rulemaking (NPRM).

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

SUMMARY: The FAA proposes to adopt a new airworthiness directive (AD) 
for all Pilatus Aircraft Ltd. (Pilatus) Model PC-24 airplanes. This 
proposed AD results

[[Page 13839]]

from mandatory continuing airworthiness information (MCAI) originated 
by an aviation authority of another country to identify and correct an 
unsafe condition on an aviation product. The MCAI identifies the unsafe 
condition as the need to revise certain airworthiness limitations and 
certification maintenance instructions. 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 26, 
2021.

ADDRESSES: You may send comments 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: U.S. Department of Transportation, Docket 
Operations, M-30, West Building Ground Floor, Room W12-140, 1200 New 
Jersey Avenue SE, Washington, DC 20590, between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m., 
Monday through Friday, except Federal holidays.
     For service information identified in this proposed AD, 
contact Pilatus Aircraft Ltd., Customer Support General Aviation, CH-
6371 Stans, Switzerland; phone: +41 848 24 7 365; email: 
aircraft.com">[email protected]aircraft.com; website: https://www.pilatus-
aircraft.com. You may view this service information at the FAA, 
Airworthiness Products Section, Technical Innovation Policy Branch, 901 
Locust, Kansas City, MO 64106. For information on the availability of 
this material at the FAA, call (816) 329-4148.

Examining the AD Docket

    You may examine the AD docket at https://www.regulations.gov by 
searching for and locating Docket No. FAA-2020-0812; 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: Doug Rudolph, Aviation Safety 
Engineer, FAA, General Aviation & Rotorcraft Section, International 
Validation Branch, 901 Locust, Room 301, Kansas City, Missouri 64106; 
phone: (816) 329-4059; fax: (816) 329-4090; 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 Number FAA-2020-0812; Project 
Identifier MCAI-2020-01317-A'' at the beginning of your comments. The 
most helpful comments reference a specific portion of the proposal, 
explain the reason for any recommended change, and include supporting 
data. The FAA will consider all comments received by the closing date 
and may amend this proposal because of those comments.
    Except for Confidential Business Information (CBI) as described in 
the following paragraph, and other information as described in 14 CFR 
11.35, the FAA will post all comments received, without change, to 
https://www.regulations.gov, including any personal information you 
provide. The agency will also post a report summarizing each 
substantive verbal contact received about this NPRM.

Confidential Business Information

    CBI is commercial or financial information that is both customarily 
and actually treated as private by its owner. Under the Freedom of 
Information Act (FOIA) (5 U.S.C. 552), CBI is exempt from public 
disclosure. If your comments responsive to this NPRM contain commercial 
or financial information that is customarily treated as private, that 
you actually treat as private, and that is relevant or responsive to 
this NPRM, it is important that you clearly designate the submitted 
comments as CBI. Please mark each page of your submission containing 
CBI as ``PROPIN.'' The FAA will treat such marked submissions as 
confidential under the FOIA, and they will not be placed in the public 
docket of this AD. Submissions containing CBI should be sent to Doug 
Rudolph, Aviation Safety Engineer, FAA, General Aviation & Rotorcraft 
Section, International Validation Branch, 901 Locust, Room 301, Kansas 
City, Missouri 64106. Any commentary that the FAA receives which is not 
specifically designated as CBI will be placed in the public docket for 
this rulemaking.

Background

    The European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA), which is the 
Technical Agent for the Member States of the European Union, has issued 
EASA AD No. 2020-0202, dated September 22, 2020 (referred to after this 
as ``the MCAI''), to correct an unsafe condition for Pilatus Model PC-
24 airplanes. The MCAI states:

    The airworthiness limitations and certification maintenance 
instructions for Pilatus PC-24 aeroplanes, which are approved by 
EASA, are currently defined and published in Pilatus PC-24 AMM 
[Aircraft Maintenance Manual] Chapter 04-00-00. These instructions 
have been identified as mandatory for continued airworthiness.
    Failure to accomplish these instructions could result in an 
unsafe condition.
    Previously, EASA issued AD 2020-0074, [dated March 27, 2020,] 
requiring the actions described in the Pilatus PC-24 AMM Chapter 04-
00-00, Document Number 02378 Issue 005 at Revision 14.
    Since that AD was issued, Pilatus published the ALS 
[Airworthiness Limitations section, at Issue 005 Revision 19], which 
contains the following new and/or more restrictive tasks as 
specified in Mandatory Structural Inspection Items data module PC24-
AA04-20-0000-00A-000A-A Issue 005 Revision 00:

--AL-27-00-025 and AL-27-00-026: Control column sprocket gear 
assembly, and
--AL-27-00-027: Control wheel column assembly.

    In addition, Airworthiness Limitations Description data module 
PC24-A-A04-00-0000-00A-040A-A Issue 008 Revision 00 includes:

--The new limit of validity following the completion of the Full 
Scale Fatigue Test, and
--Usage assumptions/conditions for operations on unpaved and grass 
runaways.

    EASA AD No. 2020-0074, dated March 27, 2020, required revising the 
Airworthiness Limitations section (ALS) to correct an error in the 
horizontal stabilizer primary trim system secondary power source 
operational test. The MCAI retains the requirements of EASA AD No. 
2020-0074, dated March 27, 2020, which the MCAI supersedes, and 
requires the additional revisions discussed previously. You may examine 
the MCAI at https://www.regulations.gov by searching for and locating 
Docket No. FAA-2020-0812.

Related Service Information Under 1 CFR Part 51

    The FAA reviewed Chapter 4, Airworthiness Limitations, of Pilatus 
PC-24 Aircraft Maintenance Manual, data module PC24-A-A04-00-0000-00A-
040A-A, Issue 008, Revision 00, dated May 26, 2020. This service 
information contains the parent data module and the new limit of 
validity and updates the usage assumptions and conditions for 
operations on unpaved and grass runways. This document also contains 
the revised subsections with revised maintenance actions.

[[Page 13840]]

    The FAA also reviewed Pilatus PC-24 Aircraft Maintenance Manual 
Horizontal stabilizer primary trim system secondary power source--
Operation test, data module PC24-A-E27-40-0000-01A-320A-A, Issue 007, 
Revision 00, dated September 25, 2019. This service information 
contains revised procedures for task number AL-27-40-022 in the CMR.
    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.

FAA's Determination

    This product has been approved by the aviation authority of another 
country, and is approved for operation in the United States. Pursuant 
to our bilateral agreement with this State of Design Authority, it has 
notified us of the unsafe condition described in the MCAI and service 
information referenced above. The FAA is issuing this NPRM after 
determining that the unsafe condition described previously is likely to 
exist or develop on other products of the same type design.

Proposed AD Requirements in This NPRM

    This proposed AD would require replacing the revised sections of 
the ALS described previously into the existing AMM or instructions for 
continued airworthiness. Updating the entire ALS, including all 
subsections and referenced data modules, would be acceptable for 
compliance with this proposed AD. An owner/operator (pilot) may 
incorporate the ALS revisions, and the owner/operator must enter 
compliance with the applicable paragraphs of the AD into the aircraft 
records in accordance with 14 CFR 43.9(a)(1) through (4) and 14 CFR 
91.417(a)(2)(v). This is an exception to our standard maintenance 
regulations.

Costs of Compliance

    The FAA estimates that this proposed AD would affect 42 products of 
U.S. registry. The FAA also estimates that it would take about 1 work-
hour per product to comply with the requirements of this proposed AD. 
The average labor rate is $85 per work-hour.
    Based on these figures, the FAA estimates the cost of the proposed 
AD on U.S. operators would be $3,570 or $85 per product.

Authority for This Rulemaking

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

Regulatory Findings

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

List of Subjects in 14 CFR Part 39

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

The Proposed Amendment

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

PART 39--AIRWORTHINESS DIRECTIVES

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

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


Sec.  39.13  [Amended]

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

Pilatus Aircraft Ltd.: Docket No. FAA-2020-0812; Project Identifier 
MCAI-2020-01317-A.

(a) Comments Due Date

    The FAA must receive comments on this airworthiness directive 
(AD) by April 26, 2021.

(b) Affected ADs

    None.

(c) Applicability

    This AD applies to Pilatus Aircraft Ltd. Model PC-24 airplanes, 
all serial numbers, certificated in any category.

(d) Subject

    Joint Aircraft System Component (JASC) Code 2740: Stabilizer 
Control System.

(e) Reason

    This AD was prompted by the need to revise the Airworthiness 
Limitations section (ALS) of the existing aircraft maintenance 
manual (AMM) to add new and more restrictive tasks for the control 
column sprocket gear assembly and control wheel column assembly, to 
address the new limit of validity and update the usage assumptions 
and conditions for operations on unpaved and grass runways, and to 
correct an error in the horizontal stabilizer primary trim system 
secondary power source operational test. The FAA is issuing this AD 
to prevent reduction in the structural integrity of the airframe and 
components, as well as an unrecognized failure of the manual pitch 
trim. These conditions, if not addressed, could result in loss of 
airplane control.

(f) Actions and Compliance

    (1) Before further flight, unless already done, revise the ALS 
of the existing AMM or instructions for continued airworthiness 
(ICA) for your airplane by incorporating the following documents.
    (i) Pilatus PC-24 Aircraft Maintenance Manual, Airworthiness 
Limitations, AMM data module PC24-A-A04-00-0000-00A-040A-A, Issue 
008, Revision 00, dated May 26, 2020.
    (ii) Pilatus PC-24 Aircraft Maintenance Manual, Mandatory 
structural inspection items, data module PC24-A-A04-20-0000-00A-
000A-A, Issue 005, Revision 00, dated May 26, 2020.
    (iii) Pilatus PC-24 Aircraft Maintenance Manual, Certification 
maintenance requirements, data module PC24-A-A04-30-0000-00A-000A-A, 
Issue 007, Revision 00, dated October 14, 2019.
    (iv) Pilatus PC-24 Aircraft Maintenance Manual, Horizontal 
stabilizer primary trim system secondary power source--Operation 
test, data module PC24-A-E27-40-0000-01A-320A-A, Issue 007, Revision 
00, dated September 25, 2019. Your ALS must require this procedure 
for task number AL-27-40-022 in the certification maintenance 
requirements.

    Note 1 to paragraph (f)(1) of this AD: Pilatus PC-24 Aircraft 
Maintenance Manual, Airworthiness Limitations, AMM data module PC24-
A-A04-00-0000-00A-040A-A, Issue 008, Revision 00, dated May 26, 
2020, is the parent data module for chapter 4 of the PC-24 AMM and 
consists of four subsections (sub-data modules). The parent data 
module and four sub-data modules

[[Page 13841]]

comprise the complete ALS of the PC-24 Aircraft Maintenance Manual. 
Incorporating Pilatus PC-24 Aircraft Maintenance Manual, 
Airworthiness Limitations, AMM data module PC24-A-A04-00-0000-00A-
040A-A, Issue 008 Revision 00, dated May 26, 2020, and all four 
subsections listed in Section 1 General, is acceptable, but not 
required, for compliance with this AD.

    (2) As of the effective date of this AD, except as provided in 
paragraph (g) of this AD, no alternative replacement times, 
inspection intervals, or tasks may be approved for the affected 
parts.
    (3) The actions required by paragraph (f)(1) of this AD may be 
performed by the owner/operator (pilot) holding at least a private 
pilot certificate and must be entered into the aircraft records 
showing compliance with this AD in accordance with 14 CFR 43.9(a)(1) 
through (4), and 14 CFR 91.417(a)(2)(v). The record must be 
maintained as required by 14 CFR 91.417, 121.380, or 135.439.

(g) Alternative Methods of Compliance (AMOCs)

    The Manager, International Validation Branch, FAA, has the 
authority to approve AMOCs for this AD, if requested using the 
procedures found in 14 CFR 39.19. Send information to Doug Rudolph, 
Aerospace Engineer, FAA, General Aviation & Rotorcraft Section, 
International Validation Branch, 901 Locust, Room 301, Kansas City, 
Missouri 64106; phone: (816) 329-4059; fax: (816) 329-4090; email: 
[email protected]. Before using any approved AMOC on any airplane 
to which the AMOC applies, notify your appropriate principal 
inspector (PI) in the FAA Flight Standards District Office (FSDO), 
or lacking a PI, your local FSDO. 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.

(h) Related Information

    Refer to MCAI European Union Aviation Safety Agency AD No. 2020-
0202, dated September 22, 2020 for related information. You may 
examine the MCAI at https://www.regulations.gov by searching for and 
locating Docket No. FAA-2020-0812. For service information related 
to this AD, contact Pilatus Aircraft Ltd., Customer Support General 
Aviation, CH-6371 Stans, Switzerland; phone: +41 848 24 7 365; 
email: aircraft.com">[email protected]aircraft.com; website: https://
www.pilatus-aircraft.com. You may review this referenced service 
information at the FAA, Airworthiness Products Section, Technical 
Innovation Policy Branch, 901 Locust, Kansas City, Missouri 64106. 
For information on the availability of this material at the FAA, 
call (816) 329-4148.

    Issued on January 14, 2021.
Lance T. Gant,
Director, Compliance & Airworthiness Division, Aircraft Certification 
Service.
[FR Doc. 2021-01625 Filed 3-10-21; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE 4910-13-P
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