Airworthiness Directives; Airbus Helicopters, 13982-13985 [2021-05151]
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13982
Federal Register / Vol. 86, No. 47 / Friday, March 12, 2021 / Rules and Regulations
(h) Alternative Methods of Compliance
(AMOCs)
(1) The Manager, Strategic Policy
Rotorcraft Section, FAA, has the authority to
approve AMOCs for this AD, if requested
using the procedures found in 14 CFR 39.19.
In accordance with 14 CFR 39.19, send your
request to your principal inspector or local
Flight Standards District Office, as
appropriate. If sending information directly
to the manager of the certification office,
send it to the attention of the person
identified in paragraph (i)(1) of this AD.
Information may be emailed to: 9-DenverAircraft-Cert@faa.gov or ronnea.l.derby.@
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.
(i) Related Information
(1) For more information about this AD,
contact Ronnea L. Derby, Aerospace
Engineer, Denver ACO Branch, FAA, 26805
East 68th Ave., Room 214, Denver, CO 80249;
telephone 303–342–1093; email
ronnea.l.derby.@faa.gov.
(2) The subject of this AD is addressed in
European Aviation Safety Agency (now
European Union Aviation Safety Agency)
(EASA) AD 2015–0098, dated June 2, 2015,
and EASA AD 2015–0220, dated November
9, 2015. You may view the EASA ADs on the
internet at https://www.regulations.gov in
Docket No. FAA–2015–4497.
(3) The following documents, which are
not incorporated by reference, contain
additional information about the subject of
this AD: Eurocopter Alert Service Bulletin
ASB–BO 105–80–118, Revision 1, dated
November 29, 1995; Eurocopter Information
Notice 2370–I–24, Revision 0, dated
November 15, 2011; Eurocopter Service
Bulletin SB–BO105–80–119, dated November
7, 1994; and Eurocopter Service Bulletin SB
BO105–90–104, Revision 1, dated June 21,
2010.
(4) Service information identified in this
AD that is not incorporated by reference is
available at the addresses specified in
paragraphs (j)(3) and (4) of this AD.
(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 this AD specifies otherwise.
(i) Eurocopter Alert Service Bulletin ASB–
MBB–BK117–90–118, Revision 2, dated May
4, 2009.
(ii) Eurocopter Alert Service Bulletin ASB
BO105–90–103, Revision 4, dated June 21,
2010.
(iii) Eurocopter Flight Manual BK117 A–3
Temporary Revision 9, dated September 22,
2006.
(iv) Eurocopter Flight Manual BK117 A–4
Temporary Revision 5, dated September 22,
2006.
19:32 Mar 11, 2021
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Issued on February 19, 2021.
Lance T. Gant,
Director, Compliance & Airworthiness
Division, Aircraft Certification Service.
[FR Doc. 2021–05146 Filed 3–11–21; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE 4910–13–P
DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION
Federal Aviation Administration
14 CFR Part 39
[Docket No. FAA–2020–1131; Project
Identifier MCAI–2020–00613–R; Amendment
39–21445; AD 2021–05–02]
RIN 2120–AA64
Airworthiness Directives; Airbus
Helicopters
Federal Aviation
Administration (FAA), DOT.
ACTION: Final rule.
AGENCY:
(j) Material Incorporated by Reference
VerDate Sep<11>2014
(v) Eurocopter Flight Manual BK117 B–1
Temporary Revision 6, dated September 22,
2006.
(vi) Eurocopter Flight Manual BK 117 B–
2 Temporary Revision 1, dated September 22,
2006.
(vii) Eurocopter Flight Manual BK 117 C–
1 Temporary Revision 2, dated September 22,
2006.
(3) For Eurocopter 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.
The FAA is adopting a new
airworthiness directive (AD) for all
Airbus Helicopters Model AS350B,
AS350BA, AS350B1, AS350B2,
AS350B3, AS350C, and AS350D
helicopters; Model AS355E, AS355F,
AS355F1, AS355F2, AS355N, and
AS355NP helicopters; and Model
EC130B4 and EC130T2 helicopters. This
AD was prompted by a report of failed
main rotor hub-to-mast attachment
screws. This AD requires determining
whether the helicopter has been
operated in a severe environment since
the last inspection of the main rotor
hub-to-mast attachment screws, an
SUMMARY:
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inspection of the main rotor hub-to-mast
attachment screws if the helicopter has
been operated in a severe environment,
and replacement of the main rotor hubto-mast attachment screws if necessary,
as specified in a European Aviation
Safety Agency (now European Union
Aviation Safety Agency) (EASA) AD,
which is incorporated by reference. The
FAA is issuing this AD to address the
unsafe condition on these products.
DATES: This AD is effective April 16,
2021.
The Director of the Federal Register
approved the incorporation by reference
of a certain publication listed in this AD
as of April 16, 2021.
ADDRESSES: For material 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
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–2020–1131.
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–
1131; or in person at Docket Operations
between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m., Monday
through Friday, except Federal holidays.
The AD docket contains this final rule,
any comments received, and other
information. The address for Docket
Operations is U.S. Department of
Transportation, Docket Operations, M–
30, West Building Ground Floor, Room
W12–140, 1200 New Jersey Avenue SE,
Washington, DC 20590.
FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Hal
Jensen, Aerospace Engineer, Operational
Safety Branch, FAA, 470 L’Enfant Plaza
SW, Washington, DC 20024; phone:
202–267–9167; email: hal.jensen@
faa.gov.
SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION:
Discussion
The EASA, which is the Technical
Agent for the Member States of the
European Union, has issued EASA AD
2017–0032, dated February 17, 2017;
corrected February 20, 2017 (EASA AD
2017–0032) (also referred to as the
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Federal Register / Vol. 86, No. 47 / Friday, March 12, 2021 / Rules and Regulations
Mandatory Continuing Airworthiness
Information, or the MCAI), to correct an
unsafe condition for all Airbus
Helicopters Model AS 350 B, AS 350
BA, AS 350 BB, AS 350 B1, AS 350 B2,
AS 350 B3, and AS 350 D helicopters;
AS 355 E, AS 355 F, AS 355 F1, AS 355
F2, AS 355 N, and AS 355 NP
helicopters; and EC 130 B4 and EC 130
T2 helicopters. Model AS 350 BB
helicopters are not certificated by the
FAA and are not included on the U.S.
type certificate data sheet; this AD
therefore does not include those
helicopters in the applicability. This AD
also applies to Airbus Helicopter Model
AS 350C helicopters because these
helicopters have a similar design and
are included on the U.S. type certificate
data sheet.
The FAA issued a notice of proposed
rulemaking (NPRM) to amend 14 CFR
part 39 by adding an AD that would
apply to all Airbus Helicopters Model
AS350B, AS350BA, AS350B1,
AS350B2, AS350B3, AS350C, and
AS350D helicopters; Model AS355E,
AS355F, AS355F1, AS355F2, AS355N,
and AS355NP helicopters; and Model
EC130B4 and EC130T2 helicopters. The
NPRM published in the Federal
Register on December 15, 2020 (85 FR
81157). The NPRM was prompted by a
report of failed main rotor hub-to-mast
attachment screws. The NPRM proposed
to require determining whether the
helicopter has been operated in a severe
environment since the last inspection of
the main rotor hub-to-mast attachment
screws, an inspection of the main rotor
hub-to-mast attachment screws if the
helicopter has been operated in a severe
environment, and replacement of the
main rotor hub-to-mast attachment
screws if necessary, as specified in an
EASA AD.
The FAA is issuing this AD to address
failed main rotor hub-to-mast
attachment screws, which could lead to
disconnection of the main rotor hub-tomast attachment, possibly resulting in
loss of control of the helicopter. See the
MCAI for additional background
information.
Comments
The FAA gave the public the
opportunity to participate in developing
this final rule. The FAA has considered
the comments received. An individual
indicated agreement with the NPRM.
Conclusion
The FAA reviewed the relevant data,
considered the comment received, and
determined that air safety and the
public interest require adopting this
final rule as proposed, except for minor
editorial changes. The FAA has
determined that these minor changes:
• Are consistent with the intent that
was proposed in the NPRM for
addressing the unsafe condition; and
• Do not add any additional burden
upon the public than was already
proposed in the NPRM.
Related Service Information Under 1
CFR Part 51
EASA AD 2017–0032 describes
procedures for determining whether the
helicopter has been operated in a severe
environment since the last inspection of
the main rotor hub-to-mast attachment
screws, an inspection of the main rotor
hub-to-mast attachment screws for
corrosion and damage (damage includes
cracks, dents, and bolt distortion) if the
helicopter was operated in a severe
environment, and replacement of the
main rotor hub-to-mast attachment
screws if necessary. 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.
Differences Between This AD and the
MCAI
EASA AD 2017–0032 does not apply
to Airbus Helicopter Model AS350C
helicopters, which are included on the
U.S. type certificate data sheet.
However, this AD applies to Airbus
Helicopter Model AS350C helicopters
because those helicopters have a similar
design to the helicopters identified in
EASA AD 2017–0032.
Where the service information
specified in paragraph (3) of EASA AD
2017–0032 specifies to contact Airbus
Helicopters if damage or corrosion
exceeds existing criteria, this AD
requires replacing the affected screws
using a method approved by the
Manager, International Validation
Branch, FAA.
Costs of Compliance
The FAA estimates that this AD
affects 1,220 helicopters of U.S. registry.
The FAA estimates the following costs
to comply with this AD:
ESTIMATED COSTS FOR REQUIRED DETERMINATION OF HELICOPTER OPERATION IN A SEVERE ENVIRONMENT
Labor cost
Parts cost
Cost per
product
Cost on U.S.
operators
1 work-hours × $85 per hour = $85 ............................................................................................
$0
$85
$103,700
The FAA estimates that it would take
about 1 hour per product to comply
with the reporting requirement in this
AD. The average labor rate is $85 per
hour. Based on these figures, the FAA
estimates the cost of reporting the
inspection results on U.S. operators to
be $103,700, or $85 per product.
The FAA estimates the following
costs to do any necessary on-condition
actions that would be required based on
the results of any required actions. If a
helicopter is determined to have been
operated in a severe environment, an
inspection of the main rotor hub-to-mast
attachment screws will be required. If
there is corrosion or damage to any of
the screws, replacement of the affected
screws will be required. The FAA has
no way of determining the number of
aircraft that might need these oncondition actions:
ESTIMATED COSTS OF ON-CONDITION ACTIONS
Labor cost
Parts cost
Cost per
product
4 work-hours × $85 per hour = $340 ......................................................................................................................
$106
$446
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Federal Register / Vol. 86, No. 47 / Friday, March 12, 2021 / Rules and Regulations
Paperwork Reduction Act
A federal agency may not conduct or
sponsor, and a person is not required to
respond to, nor shall a person be subject
to penalty for failure to comply with a
collection of information subject to the
requirements of the Paperwork
Reduction Act unless that collection of
information displays a current valid
OMB control number. The control
number for the collection of information
required by this AD is 2120–0056. The
paperwork cost associated with this AD
has been detailed in the Costs of
Compliance section of this document
and includes time for reviewing
instructions, as well as completing and
reviewing the collection of information.
Therefore, all reporting associated with
this AD is mandatory. Comments
concerning the accuracy of this burden
and suggestions for reducing the burden
should be directed to Information
Collection Clearance Officer, Federal
Aviation Administration, 10101
Hillwood Pkwy., Fort Worth, TX 76177–
1524.
Authority for This Rulemaking
Title 49 of the United States Code
specifies the FAA’s authority to issue
rules on aviation safety. Subtitle I,
section 106, describes the authority of
the FAA Administrator. Subtitle VII:
Aviation Programs, describes in more
detail the scope of the Agency’s
authority.
The FAA is issuing this rulemaking
under the authority described in
Subtitle VII, Part A, Subpart III, Section
44701: General requirements. Under
that section, Congress charges the FAA
with promoting safe flight of civil
aircraft in air commerce by prescribing
regulations for practices, methods, and
procedures the Administrator finds
necessary for safety in air commerce.
This regulation is within the scope of
that authority because it addresses an
unsafe condition that is likely to exist or
develop on products identified in this
rulemaking action.
Regulatory Findings
This AD will not have federalism
implications under Executive Order
13132. This AD will not have a
substantial direct effect on the States, on
the relationship between the national
government and the States, or on the
distribution of power and
responsibilities among the various
levels of government.
For the reasons discussed above, I
certify that this AD:
(1) Is not a ‘‘significant regulatory
action’’ under Executive Order 12866,
(2) Will not affect intrastate aviation
in Alaska, and
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19:32 Mar 11, 2021
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(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:
■
AD 2021–05–02 Airbus Helicopters:
Amendment 39–21445; Docket No.
FAA–2020–1131; Project Identifier
MCAI–2020–00613–R.
(a) Effective Date
This airworthiness directive (AD) is
effective April 16, 2021.
(b) Affected ADs
None.
(c) Applicability
This AD applies to all Airbus Helicopters,
certificated in any category, as identified in
paragraphs (c)(1) through (3) of this AD.
(1) Model AS350B, AS350BA, AS350B1,
AS350B2, AS350B3, AS350C, and AS350D
helicopters.
(2) Model AS355E, AS355F, AS355F1,
AS355F2, AS355N, and AS355NP
helicopters.
(3) Model EC130B4 and EC130T2
helicopters.
(d) Subject
Joint Aircraft System Component (JASC)
Code 6200, Main Rotor System.
(e) Reason
This AD was prompted by a report of failed
main rotor hub-to-mast attachment screws.
The FAA is issuing this AD to address failed
main rotor hub-to-mast attachment screws,
which could lead to disconnection of the
main rotor hub-to-mast attachment, possibly
resulting in loss of control of the helicopter.
(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
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compliance times specified in, and in
accordance with, European Aviation Safety
Agency (now European Union Aviation
Safety Agency) (EASA) AD 2017–0032, dated
February 17, 2017; corrected February 20,
2017 (EASA AD 2017–0032).
(h) Exceptions to EASA AD 2017–0032
(1) Where EASA AD 2017–0032 refers to its
effective date, this AD requires using the
effective date of this AD.
(2) The ‘‘Remarks’’ section of EASA AD
2017–0032 does not apply to this AD.
(3) Paragraph (4) of EASA AD 2017–0032
specifies to report inspection results to
Airbus Helicopters within a certain
compliance time. For this AD, report
inspection results at the applicable time
specified in paragraph (h)(3)(i) or (ii) of this
AD.
(i) If the inspection was done on or after
the effective date of this AD: Submit the
report within 30 days after the inspection.
(ii) If the inspection was done before the
effective date of this AD: Submit the report
within 30 days after the effective date of this
AD.
(4) Where EASA AD 2017–0032 refers to
flight hours (FH), this AD requires using
hours time-in-service.
(5) Where the service information specified
in paragraph (3) of EASA AD 2017–0032
specifies to contact Airbus Helicopters if
damage or corrosion exceeds existing criteria,
for this AD, replace the affected screws using
a method approved by the Manager,
International Validation Branch, FAA. For a
repair method to be approved by the
Manager, International Validation Branch, as
required by this paragraph, the Manager’s
approval letter must specifically refer to this
AD.
(6) Although the service information
referenced in EASA AD 2017–0032 specifies
to discard certain parts, this AD does not
include that requirement.
(i) Alternative Methods of Compliance
(AMOCs)
(1) 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. 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 International Validation
Branch, send it to the attention of the person
identified in paragraph (j) of this AD.
Information may be emailed to: 9-AVS-AIR730-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
For more information about this AD,
contact Hal Jensen, Aerospace Engineer,
Operational Safety Branch, FAA, 470
L’Enfant Plaza SW, Washington, DC 20024;
phone: 202–267–9167; email: hal.jensen@
faa.gov.
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Federal Register / Vol. 86, No. 47 / Friday, March 12, 2021 / Rules and Regulations
13985
(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 this AD specifies otherwise.
(i) European Aviation Safety Agency
(EASA) AD 2017–0032, dated February 17,
2017; corrected February 20, 2017.
(ii) [Reserved]
(3) For EASA AD 2017–0032, 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
EASA AD on the EASA website at https://
ad.easa.europa.eu.
(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. 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–2020–1131.
(5) You may view this material 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.
particle detector assembly with an
improved, elongated MGB particle
detector assembly, as specified in a
European Union Aviation Safety Agency
(EASA) AD, which is incorporated by
reference. The FAA is issuing this AD
to address the unsafe condition on these
products.
DATES: This AD is effective April 16,
2021.
The Director of the Federal Register
approved the incorporation by reference
of a certain publication listed in this AD
as of April 16, 2021.
ADDRESSES: For material 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
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–2020–1107.
unsafe condition for all Airbus
Helicopters Model SA330J helicopters.
The FAA issued a notice of proposed
rulemaking (NPRM) to amend 14 CFR
part 39 by adding an AD that would
apply to all Airbus Helicopters Model
SA330J helicopters. The NPRM
published in the Federal Register on
December 4, 2020 (85 FR 78277). The
NPRM was prompted by a report of
failure of a second stage planet gear of
the MGB on a Model EC225 helicopter.
Following a review of design
similarities, it was determined that such
an event might also occur on Model
SA330J helicopters. The NPRM
proposed to require replacement of the
MGB particle detector assembly with an
improved, elongated MGB particle
detector assembly, as specified in an
EASA AD.
The FAA is issuing this AD to address
failure of a second stage planet gear of
the MGB, which could lead to loss of
control of the helicopter. See the MCAI
for additional background information.
Issued on February 17, 2021.
Gaetano A. Sciortino,
Deputy Director for Strategic Initiatives,
Compliance & Airworthiness Division,
Aircraft Certification Service.
Examining the AD Docket
Conclusion
You may examine the AD docket on
the internet at https://
www.regulations.gov by searching for
and locating Docket No. FAA–2020–
1107; or in person at Docket Operations
between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m., Monday
through Friday, except Federal holidays.
The AD docket contains this final rule,
any comments received, and other
information. The address for Docket
Operations is U.S. Department of
Transportation, Docket Operations, M–
30, West Building Ground Floor, Room
W12–140, 1200 New Jersey Avenue SE,
Washington, DC 20590.
FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT:
Mahmood G. Shah, Aviation Safety
Engineer, Fort Worth ACO Branch,
FAA, 10101 Hillwood Pkwy., Fort
Worth, TX 76177; phone: 817–222–
5538; email: mahmood.g.shah@faa.gov.
SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION:
The FAA reviewed the relevant data
and determined that air safety and the
public interest require adopting this
final rule as proposed, except for minor
editorial changes. The FAA has
determined that these minor changes:
• Are consistent with the intent that
was proposed in the NPRM for
addressing the unsafe condition; and
• Do not add any additional burden
upon the public than was already
proposed in the NPRM.
[FR Doc. 2021–05151 Filed 3–11–21; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE 4910–13–P
DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION
Federal Aviation Administration
14 CFR Part 39
[Docket No. FAA–2020–1107; Project
Identifier 2019–SW–049–AD; Amendment
39–21444; AD 2021–05–01]
RIN 2120–AA64
Airworthiness Directives; Airbus
Helicopters
Federal Aviation
Administration (FAA), DOT.
ACTION: Final rule.
Discussion
The FAA is adopting a new
airworthiness directive (AD) for all
Airbus Helicopters Model SA330J
helicopters. This AD was prompted by
report of failure of a second stage planet
gear of the main gear box (MGB). This
AD requires replacement of the MGB
The EASA, which is the Technical
Agent for the Member States of the
European Union, has issued EASA AD
2019–0108, dated May 17, 2019 (EASA
AD 2019–0108) (also referred to as the
Mandatory Continuing Airworthiness
Information, or the MCAI), to correct an
AGENCY:
SUMMARY:
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19:32 Mar 11, 2021
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Comments
The FAA gave the public the
opportunity to participate in developing
this final rule. The FAA received no
comments on the NPRM or on the
determination of the cost to the public.
Related Service Information Under 1
CFR Part 51
EASA AD 2019–0108 describes
procedures for replacement of the MGB
particle detector assembly with an
improved, elongated MGB particle
detector assembly. 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.
Costs of Compliance
The FAA estimates that this AD
affects 15 helicopters of U.S. registry.
The FAA estimates the following costs
to comply with this AD:
E:\FR\FM\12MRR1.SGM
12MRR1
]]>Agencies
[Federal Register Volume 86, Number 47 (Friday, March 12, 2021)]
[Rules and Regulations]
[Pages 13982-13985]
From the Federal Register Online via the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]
[FR Doc No: 2021-05151]
-----------------------------------------------------------------------
DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION
Federal Aviation Administration
14 CFR Part 39
[Docket No. FAA-2020-1131; Project Identifier MCAI-2020-00613-R;
Amendment 39-21445; AD 2021-05-02]
RIN 2120-AA64
Airworthiness Directives; Airbus Helicopters
AGENCY: Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), DOT.
ACTION: Final rule.
-----------------------------------------------------------------------
SUMMARY: The FAA is adopting a new airworthiness directive (AD) for all
Airbus Helicopters Model AS350B, AS350BA, AS350B1, AS350B2, AS350B3,
AS350C, and AS350D helicopters; Model AS355E, AS355F, AS355F1, AS355F2,
AS355N, and AS355NP helicopters; and Model EC130B4 and EC130T2
helicopters. This AD was prompted by a report of failed main rotor hub-
to-mast attachment screws. This AD requires determining whether the
helicopter has been operated in a severe environment since the last
inspection of the main rotor hub-to-mast attachment screws, an
inspection of the main rotor hub-to-mast attachment screws if the
helicopter has been operated in a severe environment, and replacement
of the main rotor hub-to-mast attachment screws if necessary, as
specified in a European Aviation Safety Agency (now European Union
Aviation Safety Agency) (EASA) AD, which is incorporated by reference.
The FAA is issuing this AD to address the unsafe condition on these
products.
DATES: This AD is effective April 16, 2021.
The Director of the Federal Register approved the incorporation by
reference of a certain publication listed in this AD as of April 16,
2021.
ADDRESSES: For material incorporated by reference (IBR) in this AD,
contact the EASA, Konrad-Adenauer-Ufer 3, 50668 Cologne, Germany;
phone: +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-2020-1131.
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-
1131; or in person at Docket Operations between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m.,
Monday through Friday, except Federal holidays. The AD docket contains
this final rule, any comments received, and other information. The
address for Docket Operations is U.S. Department of Transportation,
Docket Operations, M-30, West Building Ground Floor, Room W12-140, 1200
New Jersey Avenue SE, Washington, DC 20590.
FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Hal Jensen, Aerospace Engineer,
Operational Safety Branch, FAA, 470 L'Enfant Plaza SW, Washington, DC
20024; phone: 202-267-9167; email: [email protected].
SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION:
Discussion
The EASA, which is the Technical Agent for the Member States of the
European Union, has issued EASA AD 2017-0032, dated February 17, 2017;
corrected February 20, 2017 (EASA AD 2017-0032) (also referred to as
the
[[Page 13983]]
Mandatory Continuing Airworthiness Information, or the MCAI), to
correct an unsafe condition for all Airbus Helicopters Model AS 350 B,
AS 350 BA, AS 350 BB, AS 350 B1, AS 350 B2, AS 350 B3, and AS 350 D
helicopters; AS 355 E, AS 355 F, AS 355 F1, AS 355 F2, AS 355 N, and AS
355 NP helicopters; and EC 130 B4 and EC 130 T2 helicopters. Model AS
350 BB helicopters are not certificated by the FAA and are not included
on the U.S. type certificate data sheet; this AD therefore does not
include those helicopters in the applicability. This AD also applies to
Airbus Helicopter Model AS 350C helicopters because these helicopters
have a similar design and are included on the U.S. type certificate
data sheet.
The FAA issued a notice of proposed rulemaking (NPRM) to amend 14
CFR part 39 by adding an AD that would apply to all Airbus Helicopters
Model AS350B, AS350BA, AS350B1, AS350B2, AS350B3, AS350C, and AS350D
helicopters; Model AS355E, AS355F, AS355F1, AS355F2, AS355N, and
AS355NP helicopters; and Model EC130B4 and EC130T2 helicopters. The
NPRM published in the Federal Register on December 15, 2020 (85 FR
81157). The NPRM was prompted by a report of failed main rotor hub-to-
mast attachment screws. The NPRM proposed to require determining
whether the helicopter has been operated in a severe environment since
the last inspection of the main rotor hub-to-mast attachment screws, an
inspection of the main rotor hub-to-mast attachment screws if the
helicopter has been operated in a severe environment, and replacement
of the main rotor hub-to-mast attachment screws if necessary, as
specified in an EASA AD.
The FAA is issuing this AD to address failed main rotor hub-to-mast
attachment screws, which could lead to disconnection of the main rotor
hub-to-mast attachment, possibly resulting in loss of control of the
helicopter. See the MCAI for additional background information.
Comments
The FAA gave the public the opportunity to participate in
developing this final rule. The FAA has considered the comments
received. An individual indicated agreement with the NPRM.
Conclusion
The FAA reviewed the relevant data, considered the comment
received, and determined that air safety and the public interest
require adopting this final rule as proposed, except for minor
editorial changes. The FAA has determined that these minor changes:
Are consistent with the intent that was proposed in the
NPRM for addressing the unsafe condition; and
Do not add any additional burden upon the public than was
already proposed in the NPRM.
Related Service Information Under 1 CFR Part 51
EASA AD 2017-0032 describes procedures for determining whether the
helicopter has been operated in a severe environment since the last
inspection of the main rotor hub-to-mast attachment screws, an
inspection of the main rotor hub-to-mast attachment screws for
corrosion and damage (damage includes cracks, dents, and bolt
distortion) if the helicopter was operated in a severe environment, and
replacement of the main rotor hub-to-mast attachment screws if
necessary. 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.
Differences Between This AD and the MCAI
EASA AD 2017-0032 does not apply to Airbus Helicopter Model AS350C
helicopters, which are included on the U.S. type certificate data
sheet. However, this AD applies to Airbus Helicopter Model AS350C
helicopters because those helicopters have a similar design to the
helicopters identified in EASA AD 2017-0032.
Where the service information specified in paragraph (3) of EASA AD
2017-0032 specifies to contact Airbus Helicopters if damage or
corrosion exceeds existing criteria, this AD requires replacing the
affected screws using a method approved by the Manager, International
Validation Branch, FAA.
Costs of Compliance
The FAA estimates that this AD affects 1,220 helicopters of U.S.
registry. The FAA estimates the following costs to comply with this AD:
Estimated Costs for Required Determination of Helicopter Operation in a Severe Environment
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Cost per Cost on U.S.
Labor cost Parts cost product operators
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
1 work-hours x $85 per hour = $85............................ $0 $85 $103,700
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
The FAA estimates that it would take about 1 hour per product to
comply with the reporting requirement in this AD. The average labor
rate is $85 per hour. Based on these figures, the FAA estimates the
cost of reporting the inspection results on U.S. operators to be
$103,700, or $85 per product.
The FAA estimates the following costs to do any necessary on-
condition actions that would be required based on the results of any
required actions. If a helicopter is determined to have been operated
in a severe environment, an inspection of the main rotor hub-to-mast
attachment screws will be required. If there is corrosion or damage to
any of the screws, replacement of the affected screws will be required.
The FAA has no way of determining the number of aircraft that might
need these on-condition actions:
Estimated Costs of On-Condition Actions
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Cost per
Labor cost Parts cost product
------------------------------------------------------------------------
4 work-hours x $85 per hour = $340.... $106 $446
------------------------------------------------------------------------
[[Page 13984]]
Paperwork Reduction Act
A federal agency may not conduct or sponsor, and a person is not
required to respond to, nor shall a person be subject to penalty for
failure to comply with a collection of information subject to the
requirements of the Paperwork Reduction Act unless that collection of
information displays a current valid OMB control number. The control
number for the collection of information required by this AD is 2120-
0056. The paperwork cost associated with this AD has been detailed in
the Costs of Compliance section of this document and includes time for
reviewing instructions, as well as completing and reviewing the
collection of information. Therefore, all reporting associated with
this AD is mandatory. Comments concerning the accuracy of this burden
and suggestions for reducing the burden should be directed to
Information Collection Clearance Officer, Federal Aviation
Administration, 10101 Hillwood Pkwy., Fort Worth, TX 76177-1524.
Authority for This Rulemaking
Title 49 of the United States Code specifies the FAA's authority to
issue rules on aviation safety. Subtitle I, section 106, describes the
authority of the FAA Administrator. Subtitle VII: Aviation Programs,
describes in more detail the scope of the Agency's authority.
The FAA is issuing this rulemaking under the authority described in
Subtitle VII, Part A, Subpart III, Section 44701: General requirements.
Under that section, Congress charges the FAA with promoting safe flight
of civil aircraft in air commerce by prescribing regulations for
practices, methods, and procedures the Administrator finds necessary
for safety in air commerce. This regulation is within the scope of that
authority because it addresses an unsafe condition that is likely to
exist or develop on products identified in this rulemaking action.
Regulatory Findings
This AD will not have federalism implications under Executive Order
13132. This AD will not have a substantial direct effect on the States,
on the relationship between the national government and the States, or
on the distribution of power and responsibilities among the various
levels of government.
For the reasons discussed above, I certify that this AD:
(1) Is not a ``significant regulatory action'' under Executive
Order 12866,
(2) Will not affect intrastate aviation in Alaska, and
(3) Will not have a significant economic impact, positive or
negative, on a substantial number of small entities under the criteria
of the Regulatory Flexibility Act.
List of Subjects in 14 CFR Part 39
Air transportation, Aircraft, Aviation safety, Incorporation by
reference, Safety.
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:
AD 2021-05-02 Airbus Helicopters: Amendment 39-21445; Docket No.
FAA-2020-1131; Project Identifier MCAI-2020-00613-R.
(a) Effective Date
This airworthiness directive (AD) is effective April 16, 2021.
(b) Affected ADs
None.
(c) Applicability
This AD applies to all Airbus Helicopters, certificated in any
category, as identified in paragraphs (c)(1) through (3) of this AD.
(1) Model AS350B, AS350BA, AS350B1, AS350B2, AS350B3, AS350C,
and AS350D helicopters.
(2) Model AS355E, AS355F, AS355F1, AS355F2, AS355N, and AS355NP
helicopters.
(3) Model EC130B4 and EC130T2 helicopters.
(d) Subject
Joint Aircraft System Component (JASC) Code 6200, Main Rotor
System.
(e) Reason
This AD was prompted by a report of failed main rotor hub-to-
mast attachment screws. The FAA is issuing this AD to address failed
main rotor hub-to-mast attachment screws, which could lead to
disconnection of the main rotor hub-to-mast attachment, possibly
resulting in loss of control of the helicopter.
(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, European Aviation Safety Agency (now European Union
Aviation Safety Agency) (EASA) AD 2017-0032, dated February 17,
2017; corrected February 20, 2017 (EASA AD 2017-0032).
(h) Exceptions to EASA AD 2017-0032
(1) Where EASA AD 2017-0032 refers to its effective date, this
AD requires using the effective date of this AD.
(2) The ``Remarks'' section of EASA AD 2017-0032 does not apply
to this AD.
(3) Paragraph (4) of EASA AD 2017-0032 specifies to report
inspection results to Airbus Helicopters within a certain compliance
time. For this AD, report inspection results at the applicable time
specified in paragraph (h)(3)(i) or (ii) of this AD.
(i) If the inspection was done on or after the effective date of
this AD: Submit the report within 30 days after the inspection.
(ii) If the inspection was done before the effective date of
this AD: Submit the report within 30 days after the effective date
of this AD.
(4) Where EASA AD 2017-0032 refers to flight hours (FH), this AD
requires using hours time-in-service.
(5) Where the service information specified in paragraph (3) of
EASA AD 2017-0032 specifies to contact Airbus Helicopters if damage
or corrosion exceeds existing criteria, for this AD, replace the
affected screws using a method approved by the Manager,
International Validation Branch, FAA. For a repair method to be
approved by the Manager, International Validation Branch, as
required by this paragraph, the Manager's approval letter must
specifically refer to this AD.
(6) Although the service information referenced in EASA AD 2017-
0032 specifies to discard certain parts, this AD does not include
that requirement.
(i) Alternative Methods of Compliance (AMOCs)
(1) 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. 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 International Validation Branch, send
it to the attention of the person identified in paragraph (j) of
this AD. Information may be emailed to: [email protected].
(2) Before using any approved AMOC, notify your appropriate
principal inspector, or lacking a principal inspector, the manager
of the local flight standards district office/certificate holding
district office.
(j) Related Information
For more information about this AD, contact Hal Jensen,
Aerospace Engineer, Operational Safety Branch, FAA, 470 L'Enfant
Plaza SW, Washington, DC 20024; phone: 202-267-9167; email:
[email protected].
[[Page 13985]]
(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 this AD specifies otherwise.
(i) European Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) AD 2017-0032, dated
February 17, 2017; corrected February 20, 2017.
(ii) [Reserved]
(3) For EASA AD 2017-0032, contact the EASA, Konrad-Adenauer-
Ufer 3, 50668 Cologne, Germany; phone: +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.
(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. 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-
2020-1131.
(5) You may view this material 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 February 17, 2021.
Gaetano A. Sciortino,
Deputy Director for Strategic Initiatives, Compliance & Airworthiness
Division, Aircraft Certification Service.
[FR Doc. 2021-05151 Filed 3-11-21; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE 4910-13-P
