Airworthiness Directives; Airbus Helicopters Deutschland GmbH Helicopters, 13809-13811 [2021-05090]

Download as PDF Federal Register / Vol. 86, No. 46 / Thursday, March 11, 2021 / Rules and Regulations (3) Will not have a significant economic impact, positive or negative, on a substantial number of small entities under the criteria of the Regulatory Flexibility Act. List of Subjects in 14 CFR Part 39 Air transportation, Aircraft, Aviation safety, Incorporation by reference, Safety. The Amendment Accordingly, under the authority delegated to me by the Administrator, the FAA amends 14 CFR part 39 as follows: PART 39—AIRWORTHINESS DIRECTIVES 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: ■ 2021–05–08 Safran Helicopter Engines, S.A. (Type Certificate previously held by Turbomeca, S.A.): Amendment 39– 21451; Docket No. FAA–2020–1118; Project Identifier MCAI–2020–00516–E. (b) Affected ADs None. (i) Alternative Methods of Compliance (AMOCs) (c) Applicability This AD applies to all Safran Helicopter Engines, S.A. (Type Certificate previously held by Turbomeca, S.A.) Arriel 2C, 2C1, 2S1, and 2S2 model turboshaft engines. (d) Subject Joint Aircraft System Component (JASC) Code 7712, Engine BMEP/Torque Indicating. khammond on DSKJM1Z7X2PROD with RULES (e) Unsafe Condition This AD was prompted by investigations by the manufacturer following level 1 failures in flight (minor anomalies) and level 2 failures on the ground (minor failures), where cracks were found on the soldered joints of torque conformation boxes. The FAA is issuing this AD to prevent failure of the torque conformation box. The unsafe condition, if not addressed, could result in failure of the engine, in-flight shutdown, and loss of the helicopter. (f) Compliance Comply with this AD within the compliance times specified, unless already done. (g) Required Actions (1) For engines with the torque conformation box in pre-modification TU 34 configuration, installed on Arriel 2C and 2C1 model turboshaft engines; pre-modification 16:13 Mar 10, 2021 Jkt 253001 (h) Definition For the purpose of this AD, a ‘‘part eligible for installation’’ is a zero hour torque conformation box or a torque conformation box that has been inspected as required by paragraph (g)(1) of this AD. (a) Effective Date This airworthiness directive (AD) is effective April 15, 2021. VerDate Sep<11>2014 TU 34 or post-modification TU 188 configuration, installed on Arriel 2S1 model turboshaft engines; or post-modification TU 188 configuration, installed on Arriel 2S2 model turboshaft engines: (i) Within 600 engine hours (EHs) or 180 days after the effective date of this AD, whichever occurs first, perform an initial inspection of the resistance values of the torque conformation box. Note 1 to paragraph (g)(1)(i): You may delay the initial inspection by up to 60 EHs to align with other scheduled maintenance tasks. (ii) Thereafter, perform repetitive inspections of the resistance values of the torque conformation box before exceeding 600 EHs since the last inspection of the resistance values of the torque conformation box. (2) Use the Accomplishment Instructions, paragraph 2.3.2 or 4.3.2, of Safran Helicopter Engines Mandatory Service Bulletin No. 292 72 2868, Version A, dated December 2018, to perform the inspections of the resistance values of the torque conformation box required by paragraph (g)(1) of this AD. (3) If, during any inspection required by paragraph (g)(1) of this AD, a non-conforming resistance value is found, before further flight, remove the torque conformation box from service and replace it with a part eligible for installation. (1) The Manager, ECO Branch, FAA, has the authority to approve AMOCs for this AD, if requested using the procedures found in 14 CFR 39.19. In accordance with 14 CFR 39.19, send your request to your principal inspector or local Flight Standards District Office, as appropriate. If sending information directly to the manager of the certification office, send it to the attention of the person identified in Related Information. You may email your request to: ANE-AD-AMOC@ faa.gov. (2) Before using any approved AMOC, notify your appropriate principal inspector, or lacking a principal inspector, the manager of the local flight standards district office/ certificate holding district office. (j) Related Information (1) For more information about this AD, contact Wego Wang, Aviation Safety Engineer, ECO Branch, FAA, 1200 District Avenue, Burlington, MA 01803; phone: (781) 238–7134; fax: (781) 238–7199; email: wego.wang@faa.gov. (2) Refer to European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) AD 2019–0110, dated May 21, 2019, for more information. You may examine the EASA AD in the AD docket at https://www.regulations.gov by searching for and locating Docket No. FAA–2020–1118. PO 00000 Frm 00005 Fmt 4700 Sfmt 4700 13809 (k) Material Incorporated by Reference (1) The Director of the Federal Register approved the incorporation by reference (IBR) of the service information listed in this paragraph under 5 U.S.C. 552(a) and 1 CFR part 51. (2) You must use this service information as applicable to do the actions required by this AD, unless the AD specifies otherwise. (i) Safran Helicopter Engines Mandatory Service Bulletin No. 292 72 2868, Version A, dated December 2018. (ii) [Reserved] (3) For Safran Helicopter Engines service information identified in this AD, contact Safran Helicopter Engines, S.A., Avenue du 1er Mai, Tarnos, France; phone: +33 (0) 5 59 74 45 11. (4) You may view this service information at FAA, Airworthiness Products Section, Operational Safety Branch, 1200 District Avenue, Burlington, MA 01803. For information on the availability of this material at the FAA, call (781) 238–7759. (5) You may view this service information that is incorporated by reference at the National Archives and Records Administration (NARA). For information on the availability of this material at NARA, email: fedreg.legal@nara.gov, or go to: https://www.archives.gov/federal-register/cfr/ ibr-locations.html. Issued on February 19, 2021. Lance T. Gant, Director, Compliance & Airworthiness Division, Aircraft Certification Service. [FR Doc. 2021–05046 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–2020–0967; Product Identifier 2018–SW–013–AD; Amendment 39–21394; AD 2021–02–11] RIN 2120–AA64 Airworthiness Directives; Airbus Helicopters Deutschland GmbH Helicopters Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), DOT. ACTION: Final rule. AGENCY: The FAA is adopting a new airworthiness directive (AD) for Airbus Helicopters Deutschland GmbH Model MBB–BK117 A–1, MBB–BK117 A–3, MBB–BK117 A–4, MBB–BK117 B–1, MBB–BK117 B–2, MBB–BK117 C–1, and MBB–BK117 C–2 helicopters. This AD requires inspecting the tail gearbox (TGB) bellcrank attachment arm (arm) for a crack. This AD was prompted by a report of a cracked TGB arm. The actions of this AD are intended to address an unsafe condition on these products. SUMMARY: E:\FR\FM\11MRR1.SGM 11MRR1 13810 Federal Register / Vol. 86, No. 46 / Thursday, March 11, 2021 / Rules and Regulations This AD is effective April 15, 2021. The Director of the Federal Register approved the incorporation by reference of certain documents listed in this AD as of April 15, 2021. ADDRESSES: For service information identified in this final rule, contact Airbus Helicopters, 2701 N Forum Drive, Grand Prairie, TX 75052; telephone 972–641–0000 or 800–232– 0323; fax 972–641–3775; or at https:// www.airbus.com/helicopters/services/ technical-support.html. You may view the referenced service information at the FAA, Office of the Regional Counsel, Southwest Region, 10101 Hillwood Pkwy., Room 6N–321, Fort Worth, TX 76177. It is also available on the internet at https://www.regulations.gov by searching for and locating Docket No. FAA–2020–0967. DATES: 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– 0967; or in person at Docket Operations between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m., Monday through Friday, except Federal holidays. The AD docket contains this AD, the European Aviation Safety Agency (now European Union Aviation Safety Agency) (EASA) AD, any service information that is incorporated by reference, any comments received, and other information. The street address for Docket Operations is U.S. Department of Transportation, Docket Operations, M– 30, West Building Ground Floor, Room W12–140, 1200 New Jersey Avenue SE, Washington, DC 20590. FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: 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. SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: khammond on DSKJM1Z7X2PROD with RULES Discussion The FAA issued a notice of proposed rulemaking (NPRM) to amend 14 CFR part 39 by adding an AD that would apply to Airbus Helicopters Deutschland GmbH Model MBB–BK117 A–1, MBB–BK117 A–3, MBB–BK117 A– 4, MBB–BK117 B–1, MBB–BK117 B–2, MBB–BK117 C–1, and MBB–BK117 C– 2 helicopters. The NPRM published in the Federal Register on October 26, 2020 (85 FR 67694). The NPRM proposed to require dye-penetrant inspecting the TGB arm for a crack and for any dent, nick, and scratch, and depending on the inspection results, VerDate Sep<11>2014 16:13 Mar 10, 2021 Jkt 253001 replacing the TGB, removing the surface material up to 0.2 mm using 80-grit abrasive paper and repeating the dye penetrant inspection, or finishing the surface with 600-grit or finer abrasive paper. The proposed requirements were intended to detect a crack in the TGB arm. The NPRM was prompted by EASA AD No. 2018–0046, dated February 19, 2018, issued by EASA, which is the Technical Agent for the Member States of the European Union, to correct an unsafe condition for Airbus Helicopters Deutschland GmbH (AHD) (formerly Eurocopter Deutschland GmbH, Eurocopter Hubschrauber GmbH, Messerschmitt-Bo¨lkow-Blohm GmbH), Airbus Helicopters Inc. (formerly American Eurocopter LLC) Model MBB– BK117 A–1, MBB–BK117 A–3, MBB– BK117 A–4, MBB–BK117 B–1, MBB– BK117 B–2, MBB–BK117 C–1, and MBB–BK117 C–2 helicopters. EASA advises that a crack was detected on a Model MBB–BK117 A–4 TGB arm and that this condition, if not corrected, could result in disconnection of the arm from the TGB and possible loss of control of the helicopter. To address this unsafe condition, the EASA AD requires an inspection of the TGB arm for a crack and for surface anomalies. Comments The FAA gave the public the opportunity to participate in developing this final rule. The FAA received comments from two commenters in support of the NPRM. FAA’s Determination These helicopters have been approved by EASA and are approved for operation in the United States. Pursuant to the FAA’s bilateral agreement with the European Union, EASA has notified the FAA of the unsafe condition described in its AD. The FAA is issuing this AD after evaluating all of the information provided by EASA and determining the unsafe condition exists and is likely to exist or develop on other helicopters of these same type designs and that air safety and the public interest require adopting the AD requirements as proposed. Differences Between This AD and the EASA AD The EASA AD requires operators to contact Airbus Helicopters if there is a crack or if there is damage that cannot be repaired by removing surface material, whereas this AD requires replacing the TGB instead. PO 00000 Frm 00006 Fmt 4700 Sfmt 4700 Related Service Information Under 1 CFR Part 51 The FAA reviewed Airbus Helicopters Alert Service Bulletin (ASB) MBB– BK117 C–2–65A–008 for Model MBB– BK117 C–2 helicopters and ASB MBB– BK117–30A–120 for Model MBB–BK117 A–1, MBB–BK117 A–3, MBB–BK117 A– 4, MBB–BK117 B–1, MBB–BK117 B–2, and MBB–BK117 C–1 helicopters, each Revision 0 and dated January 31, 2018. The service information contains procedures for inspecting the TGB arm for a crack and surface anomalies. 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. Costs of Compliance The FAA estimates that this AD affects 177 helicopters of U.S. Registry. Labor rates are estimated at $85 per work-hour. Based on these numbers, the FAA estimates that operators may incur the following costs in order to comply with this AD. Removing the surface coating and inspecting the TGB arm for a crack takes about 2 work-hours and the cost of materials is minimal, for an estimated cost of $170 per helicopter and $30,090 for the U.S. fleet. If required, reworking the TGB arm takes about 1 work-hour and the cost of materials is minimal, for an estimated cost of $85 per helicopter. Replacing a TGB with a cracked arm takes about 4.5 work-hours and costs about $69,000 for required parts, for an estimated cost of $69,383 per helicopter. 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 helicopters identified in this rulemaking action. E:\FR\FM\11MRR1.SGM 11MRR1 Federal Register / Vol. 86, No. 46 / Thursday, March 11, 2021 / Rules and Regulations Regulatory Findings This AD will not have federalism implications under Executive Order 13132. This AD will not have a substantial direct effect on the States, on the relationship between the national government and the States, or on the distribution of power and responsibilities among the various levels of government. For the reasons discussed above, I certify that this AD: (1) Is not a ‘‘significant regulatory action’’ under Executive Order 12866, (2) Will not affect intrastate aviation in Alaska, and (3) Will not have a significant economic impact, positive or negative, on a substantial number of small entities under the criteria of the Regulatory Flexibility Act. List of Subjects in 14 CFR Part 39 Air transportation, Aircraft, Aviation safety, Incorporation by reference, Safety. Adoption of the Amendment Accordingly, under the authority delegated to me by the Administrator, the FAA amends 14 CFR part 39 as follows: PART 39—AIRWORTHINESS DIRECTIVES 1. The authority citation for part 39 continues to read as follows: ■ Authority: 49 U.S.C. 106(g), 40113, 44701. § 39.13 [Amended] 2. The FAA amends § 39.13 by adding the following new airworthiness directive: ■ 2021–02–11 Airbus Helicopters Deutschland GmbH: Amendment 39–21394; Docket No. FAA–2020–0967; Product Identifier 2018–SW–013–AD. khammond on DSKJM1Z7X2PROD with RULES (a) Applicability This airworthiness directive (AD) applies to Airbus Helicopters Deutschland GmbH Model MBB–BK117 A–1, MBB–BK117 A–3, MBB–BK117 A–4, MBB–BK117 B–1, MBB– BK117 B–2, MBB–BK117 C–1, and MBB– BK117 C–2 helicopters, certificated in any category. (b) Unsafe Condition This AD defines the unsafe condition as a crack in a tail gearbox (TGB) bellcrank attachment arm. This condition could result in disconnection of the bellcrank attachment arm from the TGB and subsequent loss of control of the helicopter. (c) Effective Date This AD becomes effective April 15, 2021. (d) Compliance You are responsible for performing each action required by this AD within the VerDate Sep<11>2014 16:13 Mar 10, 2021 Jkt 253001 specified compliance time unless it has already been accomplished prior to that time. (e) Required Actions Within 100 hours time-in-service: (1) Remove the surface coating from the TGB bellcrank attachment arm and using a 5X or higher power magnifying glass, dyepenetrant inspect the TGB arm for a crack and for any dent, nick, and scratch in the area shown in Figure 1 of Airbus Helicopters Alert Service Bulletin (ASB) MBB–BK117 C– 2–65A–008 or ASB MBB–BK117–30A–120, each Revision 0 and dated January 31, 2018, as applicable to your model helicopter. (2) If there is a crack, before further flight, replace the TGB. (3) If there is a dent, a nick, or a scratch, before further flight, remove the surface material up to 0.2 mm using 80-grit abrasive paper and repeat the dye penetrant inspection. If there is a crack or if the damage cannot be removed, before further flight, replace the TGB. (4) If there is no crack and no dent, nick, or scratch, before further flight, finish the surface with 600-grit or finer abrasive paper. 13811 (3) For service information identified in this AD, contact Airbus Helicopters, 2701 N Forum Drive, Grand Prairie, TX 75052; telephone 972–641–0000 or 800–232–0323; fax 972–641–3775; or at https:// www.airbus.com/helicopters/services/ technical-support.html. (4) You may view this service information at the FAA, Office of the Regional Counsel, Southwest Region, 10101 Hillwood Pkwy., Room 6N–321, Fort Worth, TX 76177. For information on the availability of this material at the FAA, call 817–222–5110. (5) You may view this service information that is incorporated by reference at the National Archives and Records Administration (NARA). For information on the availability of this material at NARA, email fedreg.legal@nara.gov, or go to: https:// www.archives.gov/federal-register/cfr/ibrlocations.html. Issued on January 14, 2021. Lance T. Gant, Director, Compliance & Airworthiness Division, Aircraft Certification Service. [FR Doc. 2021–05090 Filed 3–10–21; 8:45 am] (f) Special Flight Permits Special flight permits are prohibited. BILLING CODE 4910–13–P (g) Alternative Methods of Compliance (AMOCs) (1) The Manager, International Validation Branch, FAA, may approve AMOCs for this AD. Send your proposal to: Kristi Bradley, Aviation Safety Engineer, General Aviation & Rotorcraft Section, International Validation Branch, FAA, 10101 Hillwood Pkwy., Fort Worth, TX 76177; telephone (817) 222–5110; email 9-AVS-AIR-730-AMOC@faa.gov. (2) For operations conducted under a 14 CFR part 119 operating certificate or 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. DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION (h) Additional Information The subject of this AD is addressed in European Aviation Safety Agency (now European Union Aviation Safety Agency) (EASA) AD No. 2018–0046, dated February 19, 2018. You may view the EASA AD on the internet at https://www.regulations.gov in Docket No. FAA–2020–0967. (i) Subject Joint Aircraft Service Component (JASC) Code: 6520, Tail Rotor Gearbox. (j) Material Incorporated by Reference (1) The Director of the Federal Register approved the incorporation by reference of the service information listed in this paragraph under 5 U.S.C. 552(a) and 1 CFR part 51. (2) You must use this service information as applicable to do the actions required by this AD, unless the AD specifies otherwise. (i) Airbus Helicopters Alert Service Bulletin (ASB) MBB–BK117 C–2–65A–008, Revision 0, dated January 31, 2018. (ii) Airbus Helicopters ASB MBB–BK117– 30A–120, Revision 0, dated January 31, 2018. PO 00000 Frm 00007 Fmt 4700 Sfmt 4700 Federal Aviation Administration 14 CFR Part 39 [Docket No. FAA–2020–1018; Project Identifier MCAI–2020–01383–R; Amendment 39–21391; AD 2021–02–08] RIN 2120–AA64 Airworthiness Directives; Airbus Helicopters Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), DOT. ACTION: Final rule. AGENCY: The FAA is superseding Airworthiness Directive (AD) 2018–19– 01, which applied to all Airbus Helicopters Model AS–365N2, AS 365 N3, EC 155B, EC155B1, SA–365N1, and SA–366G1 helicopters. AD 2018–19–01 required repetitive inspections of the aft fuselage outer skin. This AD continues to require repetitive inspections and adds Model SA–365N helicopters, as specified in a European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) AD, which is incorporated by reference. This AD was prompted by aft fuselage (baggage compartment area) outer skin disbonding and a determination that Model SA–365N helicopters are also affected by the unsafe condition identified in AD 2018–19–01. The FAA is issuing this AD to address the unsafe condition on these products. DATES: This AD is effective April 15, 2021. The Director of the Federal Register approved the incorporation by reference SUMMARY: E:\FR\FM\11MRR1.SGM 11MRR1

Agencies

[Federal Register Volume 86, Number 46 (Thursday, March 11, 2021)]
[Rules and Regulations]
[Pages 13809-13811]
From the Federal Register Online via the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]
[FR Doc No: 2021-05090]


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

DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION

Federal Aviation Administration

14 CFR Part 39

[Docket No. FAA-2020-0967; Product Identifier 2018-SW-013-AD; Amendment 
39-21394; AD 2021-02-11]
RIN 2120-AA64


Airworthiness Directives; Airbus Helicopters Deutschland GmbH 
Helicopters

AGENCY: Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), DOT.

ACTION: Final rule.

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

SUMMARY: The FAA is adopting a new airworthiness directive (AD) for 
Airbus Helicopters Deutschland GmbH Model MBB-BK117 A-1, MBB-BK117 A-3, 
MBB-BK117 A-4, MBB-BK117 B-1, MBB-BK117 B-2, MBB-BK117 C-1, and MBB-
BK117 C-2 helicopters. This AD requires inspecting the tail gearbox 
(TGB) bellcrank attachment arm (arm) for a crack. This AD was prompted 
by a report of a cracked TGB arm. The actions of this AD are intended 
to address an unsafe condition on these products.

[[Page 13810]]


DATES: This AD is effective April 15, 2021.
    The Director of the Federal Register approved the incorporation by 
reference of certain documents listed in this AD as of April 15, 2021.

ADDRESSES: For service information identified in this final rule, 
contact Airbus Helicopters, 2701 N Forum Drive, Grand Prairie, TX 
75052; telephone 972-641-0000 or 800-232-0323; fax 972-641-3775; or at 
https://www.airbus.com/helicopters/services/technical-support.html. You 
may view the referenced service information at the FAA, Office of the 
Regional Counsel, Southwest Region, 10101 Hillwood Pkwy., Room 6N-321, 
Fort Worth, TX 76177. It is also available on the internet at https://www.regulations.gov by searching for and locating Docket No. FAA-2020-
0967.

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-
0967; or in person at Docket Operations between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m., 
Monday through Friday, except Federal holidays. The AD docket contains 
this AD, the European Aviation Safety Agency (now European Union 
Aviation Safety Agency) (EASA) AD, any service information that is 
incorporated by reference, any comments received, and other 
information. The street address for Docket Operations is U.S. 
Department of Transportation, Docket Operations, M-30, West Building 
Ground Floor, Room W12-140, 1200 New Jersey Avenue SE, Washington, DC 
20590.

FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: 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 [email protected].

SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION:

Discussion

    The FAA issued a notice of proposed rulemaking (NPRM) to amend 14 
CFR part 39 by adding an AD that would apply to Airbus Helicopters 
Deutschland GmbH Model MBB-BK117 A-1, MBB-BK117 A-3, MBB-BK117 A-4, 
MBB-BK117 B-1, MBB-BK117 B-2, MBB-BK117 C-1, and MBB-BK117 C-2 
helicopters. The NPRM published in the Federal Register on October 26, 
2020 (85 FR 67694). The NPRM proposed to require dye-penetrant 
inspecting the TGB arm for a crack and for any dent, nick, and scratch, 
and depending on the inspection results, replacing the TGB, removing 
the surface material up to 0.2 mm using 80-grit abrasive paper and 
repeating the dye penetrant inspection, or finishing the surface with 
600-grit or finer abrasive paper. The proposed requirements were 
intended to detect a crack in the TGB arm.
    The NPRM was prompted by EASA AD No. 2018-0046, dated February 19, 
2018, issued by EASA, which is the Technical Agent for the Member 
States of the European Union, to correct an unsafe condition for Airbus 
Helicopters Deutschland GmbH (AHD) (formerly Eurocopter Deutschland 
GmbH, Eurocopter Hubschrauber GmbH, Messerschmitt-B[ouml]lkow-Blohm 
GmbH), Airbus Helicopters Inc. (formerly American Eurocopter LLC) Model 
MBB-BK117 A-1, MBB-BK117 A-3, MBB-BK117 A-4, MBB-BK117 B-1, MBB-BK117 
B-2, MBB-BK117 C-1, and MBB-BK117 C-2 helicopters. EASA advises that a 
crack was detected on a Model MBB-BK117 A-4 TGB arm and that this 
condition, if not corrected, could result in disconnection of the arm 
from the TGB and possible loss of control of the helicopter. To address 
this unsafe condition, the EASA AD requires an inspection of the TGB 
arm for a crack and for surface anomalies.

Comments

    The FAA gave the public the opportunity to participate in 
developing this final rule. The FAA received comments from two 
commenters in support of the NPRM.

FAA's Determination

    These helicopters have been approved by EASA and are approved for 
operation in the United States. Pursuant to the FAA's bilateral 
agreement with the European Union, EASA has notified the FAA of the 
unsafe condition described in its AD. The FAA is issuing this AD after 
evaluating all of the information provided by EASA and determining the 
unsafe condition exists and is likely to exist or develop on other 
helicopters of these same type designs and that air safety and the 
public interest require adopting the AD requirements as proposed.

Differences Between This AD and the EASA AD

    The EASA AD requires operators to contact Airbus Helicopters if 
there is a crack or if there is damage that cannot be repaired by 
removing surface material, whereas this AD requires replacing the TGB 
instead.

Related Service Information Under 1 CFR Part 51

    The FAA reviewed Airbus Helicopters Alert Service Bulletin (ASB) 
MBB-BK117 C-2-65A-008 for Model MBB-BK117 C-2 helicopters and ASB MBB-
BK117-30A-120 for Model MBB-BK117 A-1, MBB-BK117 A-3, MBB-BK117 A-4, 
MBB-BK117 B-1, MBB-BK117 B-2, and MBB-BK117 C-1 helicopters, each 
Revision 0 and dated January 31, 2018. The service information contains 
procedures for inspecting the TGB arm for a crack and surface 
anomalies.
    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.

Costs of Compliance

    The FAA estimates that this AD affects 177 helicopters of U.S. 
Registry. Labor rates are estimated at $85 per work-hour. Based on 
these numbers, the FAA estimates that operators may incur the following 
costs in order to comply with this AD.
    Removing the surface coating and inspecting the TGB arm for a crack 
takes about 2 work-hours and the cost of materials is minimal, for an 
estimated cost of $170 per helicopter and $30,090 for the U.S. fleet.
    If required, reworking the TGB arm takes about 1 work-hour and the 
cost of materials is minimal, for an estimated cost of $85 per 
helicopter. Replacing a TGB with a cracked arm takes about 4.5 work-
hours and costs about $69,000 for required parts, for an estimated cost 
of $69,383 per helicopter.

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 helicopters identified in this rulemaking action.

[[Page 13811]]

Regulatory Findings

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

List of Subjects in 14 CFR Part 39

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

Adoption of the Amendment

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

PART 39--AIRWORTHINESS DIRECTIVES

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

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


Sec.  39.13   [Amended]

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

2021-02-11 Airbus Helicopters Deutschland GmbH: Amendment 39-21394; 
Docket No. FAA-2020-0967; Product Identifier 2018-SW-013-AD.

(a) Applicability

    This airworthiness directive (AD) applies to Airbus Helicopters 
Deutschland GmbH Model MBB-BK117 A-1, MBB-BK117 A-3, MBB-BK117 A-4, 
MBB-BK117 B-1, MBB-BK117 B-2, MBB-BK117 C-1, and MBB-BK117 C-2 
helicopters, certificated in any category.

(b) Unsafe Condition

    This AD defines the unsafe condition as a crack in a tail 
gearbox (TGB) bellcrank attachment arm. This condition could result 
in disconnection of the bellcrank attachment arm from the TGB and 
subsequent loss of control of the helicopter.

(c) Effective Date

    This AD becomes effective April 15, 2021.

(d) Compliance

    You are responsible for performing each action required by this 
AD within the specified compliance time unless it has already been 
accomplished prior to that time.

(e) Required Actions

    Within 100 hours time-in-service:
    (1) Remove the surface coating from the TGB bellcrank attachment 
arm and using a 5X or higher power magnifying glass, dye-penetrant 
inspect the TGB arm for a crack and for any dent, nick, and scratch 
in the area shown in Figure 1 of Airbus Helicopters Alert Service 
Bulletin (ASB) MBB-BK117 C-2-65A-008 or ASB MBB-BK117-30A-120, each 
Revision 0 and dated January 31, 2018, as applicable to your model 
helicopter.
    (2) If there is a crack, before further flight, replace the TGB.
    (3) If there is a dent, a nick, or a scratch, before further 
flight, remove the surface material up to 0.2 mm using 80-grit 
abrasive paper and repeat the dye penetrant inspection. If there is 
a crack or if the damage cannot be removed, before further flight, 
replace the TGB.
    (4) If there is no crack and no dent, nick, or scratch, before 
further flight, finish the surface with 600-grit or finer abrasive 
paper.

(f) Special Flight Permits

    Special flight permits are prohibited.

(g) Alternative Methods of Compliance (AMOCs)

    (1) The Manager, International Validation Branch, FAA, may 
approve AMOCs for this AD. Send your proposal to: Kristi Bradley, 
Aviation Safety Engineer, General Aviation & Rotorcraft Section, 
International Validation Branch, FAA, 10101 Hillwood Pkwy., Fort 
Worth, TX 76177; telephone (817) 222-5110; email [email protected].
    (2) For operations conducted under a 14 CFR part 119 operating 
certificate or 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.

(h) Additional Information

    The subject of this AD is addressed in European Aviation Safety 
Agency (now European Union Aviation Safety Agency) (EASA) AD No. 
2018-0046, dated February 19, 2018. You may view the EASA AD on the 
internet at https://www.regulations.gov in Docket No. FAA-2020-0967.

(i) Subject

    Joint Aircraft Service Component (JASC) Code: 6520, Tail Rotor 
Gearbox.

(j) Material Incorporated by Reference

    (1) The Director of the Federal Register approved the 
incorporation by reference of the service information listed in this 
paragraph under 5 U.S.C. 552(a) and 1 CFR part 51.
    (2) You must use this service information as applicable to do 
the actions required by this AD, unless the AD specifies otherwise.
    (i) Airbus Helicopters Alert Service Bulletin (ASB) MBB-BK117 C-
2-65A-008, Revision 0, dated January 31, 2018.
    (ii) Airbus Helicopters ASB MBB-BK117-30A-120, Revision 0, dated 
January 31, 2018.
    (3) For service information identified in this AD, contact 
Airbus Helicopters, 2701 N Forum Drive, Grand Prairie, TX 75052; 
telephone 972-641-0000 or 800-232-0323; fax 972-641-3775; or at 
https://www.airbus.com/helicopters/services/technical-support.html.
    (4) You may view this service information at the FAA, Office of 
the Regional Counsel, Southwest Region, 10101 Hillwood Pkwy., Room 
6N-321, Fort Worth, TX 76177. For information on the availability of 
this material at the FAA, call 817-222-5110.
    (5) You may view this service information that is incorporated 
by reference at the National Archives and Records Administration 
(NARA). For information on the availability of this material at 
NARA, email [email protected], or go to: https://www.archives.gov/federal-register/cfr/ibr-locations.html.

    Issued on January 14, 2021.
Lance T. Gant,
Director, Compliance & Airworthiness Division, Aircraft Certification 
Service.
[FR Doc. 2021-05090 Filed 3-10-21; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE 4910-13-P
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