Airworthiness Directives; Airbus Helicopters Deutschland GmbH (Type Certificate Previously Held by Eurocopter Deutschland GmbH and Eurocopter Canada Ltd.) Helicopters, 16041-16043 [2021-06205]

Download as PDF Federal Register / Vol. 86, No. 57 / Friday, March 26, 2021 / Rules and Regulations khammond on DSKJM1Z7X2PROD with RULES within 90 days after the effective date of this AD. (3) Where paragraph (2) of EASA AD 2020– 0139R1 refers to ‘‘deficiencies,’’ for this AD, deficiencies include broken sealant and bush migration. (i) 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 local Flight Standards District 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 (j) 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 local flight standards district office/certificate holding district 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. (3) Required for Compliance (RC): For any service information referenced in EASA AD 2020–0139R1 that contains RC procedures and tests: Except as required by paragraph (i)(2) of this AD, RC 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. (4) Paperwork Reduction Act Burden Statement: A federal agency may not conduct or sponsor, and a person is not required to respond to, nor shall a person be subject to a 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 OMB Control Number for this information collection is 2120–0056. Public reporting for this collection of information is estimated to be approximately 1 hour per response, including the time for reviewing instructions, searching existing data sources, gathering and maintaining the data needed, and completing and reviewing the collection of information. All responses to this VerDate Sep<11>2014 16:24 Mar 25, 2021 Jkt 253001 collection of information are mandatory as required by this AD. Send comments regarding this burden estimate or any other aspect of this collection of information, including suggestions for reducing this burden to Information Collection Clearance Officer, Federal Aviation Administration, 10101 Hillwood Parkway, Fort Worth, TX 76177–1524. DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION Federal Aviation Administration 14 CFR Part 39 [Docket No. FAA–2020–0696; Product Identifier 2018–SW–019–AD; Amendment 39–21485; AD 2021–07–08] RIN 2120–AA64 (j) Related Information For more information about this AD, contact Kathleen Arrigotti, Aerospace Engineer, Large Aircraft Section, International Validation Branch, FAA, 2200 South 216th St., Des Moines, WA 98198; telephone and fax 206–231–3218; email kathleen.arrigotti@faa.gov. (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 Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) AD 2020–0139R1, dated July 3, 2020. (ii) [Reserved] (3) For EASA AD 2020–0139R1, contact the EASA, Konrad-Adenauer-Ufer 3, 50668 Cologne, Germany; telephone +49 221 8999 000; email ADs@easa.europa.eu; internet www.easa.europa.eu. You may find this EASA AD on the EASA website at https:// ad.easa.europa.eu. (4) 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–2020–0846. (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. Issued on January 27, 2021. Lance T. Gant, Director, Compliance & Airworthiness Division, Aircraft Certification Service. [FR Doc. 2021–06251 Filed 3–25–21; 8:45 am] BILLING CODE 4910–13–P PO 00000 16041 Airworthiness Directives; Airbus Helicopters Deutschland GmbH (Type Certificate Previously Held by Eurocopter Deutschland GmbH and Eurocopter Canada Ltd.) Helicopters Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), DOT. ACTION: Final rule. AGENCY: The FAA is superseding Airworthiness Directive (AD) 97–26–02 for Eurocopter Deutschland GmbH Model BO–105A, BO–105C, BO–105S, BO–105LS A–1, and BO–105LS A–3 helicopters; and Eurocopter Canada Ltd. Model BO–105LS A–3 helicopters. AD 97–26–02 required a repetitive visual inspection for cracks in the ribbed area of the main rotor (M/R) mast flange (flange), and depending on the outcome, replacing the M/R mast. This new AD retains the requirements of AD 97–26– 02 and removes the reinforced M/R mast from the applicability. This AD was prompted by the determination that a certain reinforced M/R mast is not affected by the unsafe condition. The actions of this AD are intended to address an unsafe condition on these products. SUMMARY: This AD is effective April 30, 2021. The Director of the Federal Register approved the incorporation by reference of a certain publication listed in this AD as of December 31, 1997 (62 FR 65749, December 16, 1997). 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 this 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–2020–0696. DATES: Examining the AD Docket You may examine the AD docket on the internet at https:// Frm 00015 Fmt 4700 Sfmt 4700 E:\FR\FM\26MRR1.SGM 26MRR1 16042 Federal Register / Vol. 86, No. 57 / Friday, March 26, 2021 / Rules and Regulations www.regulations.gov in Docket No. FAA–2020–0696; 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, the Transport Canada 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: Matt Fuller, AD Program Manager, Operational Safety Branch, Airworthiness Products Section, General Aviation & Rotorcraft Unit, FAA, 10101 Hillwood Pkwy., Fort Worth, TX 76177; telephone 817–222– 5110; email matthew.fuller@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 to remove AD 97–26–02, Amendment 39–10245 (62 FR 65749, December 16, 1997) (AD 97–26–02), and add a new AD. AD 97–26–02 applied to Eurocopter Deutschland GmbH Model BO–105A, BO–105C, BO–105LS A–1, and BO–105LS A–3 helicopters and Eurocopter Canada Ltd. Model BO– 105LS A–3 helicopters. AD 97–26–02 was prompted by Luftfahrt-Bundesamt (LBA) AD 97–275, effective September 25, 1997, issued by LBA, which is the airworthiness authority for Germany, to correct an unsafe condition for Eurocopter Deutschland GmbH Model BO 105 helicopters; and Transport Canada AD CF–97–18, dated September 30, 1997 (Transport Canada AD CF–97– 18), issued by Transport Canada, which is the aviation authority for Canada. The LBA and Transport Canada ADs required an immediate and repetitive visual inspection for a crack in the flange area after an M/R mast was found to have cracks of critical magnitude. The NPRM published in the Federal Register on July 17, 2020 (85 FR 43506). The NPRM proposed to continue to require the repetitive visual inspection for a crack in the ribbed area of the M/ R mast flange, and if there is a crack, removing from service the M/R mast and replacing it with an airworthy M/ R mast. The NPRM was prompted by EASA AD 2018–0056, dated March 14, 2018, issued by EASA, which is the Technical Agent for the Member States of the VerDate Sep<11>2014 16:24 Mar 25, 2021 Jkt 253001 European Union, to correct an unsafe condition for Airbus Helicopters Deutschland GmbH (previously Eurocopter Deutschland GmbH, Eurocopter Hubschrauber GmbH, Messerschmitt-Bo¨lkow-Blohm GmbH, Eurocopter Canada Ltd, MesserschmittBo¨lkow-Blohm Helicopter Canada Ltd.) Model BO105 A, BO105 C, BO105 D, BO105 LS A–1, BO105 LS A–3 and BO105 S helicopters. EASA advises of the transfer of type certificate responsibility of Eurocopter Canada Ltd. Model BO–105LS A–3 helicopters to Eurocopter Deutschland GmbH and the determination that reinforced M/R mast part number (P/N) 4639 305 095 of M/ R mast assembly P/N 4639 205 017 is not affected by this unsafe condition. The EASA AD retains the repetitive visual inspection requirements but only for helicopters with M/R mast P/N 4619 305 032 of M/R mast assembly P/N 4638 205 005, and M/R mast P/N 4639 305 002 of M/R mast assembly P/N 4639 205 017. With the transfer of type certificate responsibility of Eurocopter Canada Ltd. Model BO–105LS A–3 helicopters, Transport Canada issued Transport Canada AD CF–1997–18R1, dated March 12, 2018, to cancel Transport Canada AD CF–97–18. Also, since the FAA issued AD 97– 26–02, Eurocopter Deutschland GmbH changed its name to Airbus Helicopters Deutschland GmbH. This AD reflects that change and updates the contact information to obtain service documentation. Comments The FAA gave the public the opportunity to participate in developing this final rule, but the FAA did not receive any comments on the NPRM or on the determination of the cost to the public. FAA’s Determination These helicopters has 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 specifies contacting Airbus Helicopters if there is a crack in PO 00000 Frm 00016 Fmt 4700 Sfmt 4700 the flange, whereas this AD requires replacing the M/R mast instead. Also, the EASA AD applies to Model BO105 D and BO105 S helicopters; this AD does not as these model helicopters are not type-certificated in the U.S. Related Service Information Under 1 CFR Part 51 Eurocopter Deutschland GmbH has issued Alert Service Bulletin No. ASB– BO 105–10–110, dated August 27, 1997, which specifies procedures for repetitive visual inspections of the flange for cracks. 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 21 helicopters of U.S. Registry. The FAA estimates that operators may incur the following costs in order to comply with this AD. Labor costs are estimated at $85 per work-hour. Inspecting the flange takes about 0.25 work-hour for an estimated cost of $21 per helicopter and $441 for the U.S. fleet per inspection cycle. Replacing the M/R mast takes about 8 work-hours and parts cost about $30,000 for an estimated cost of $30,680 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 products identified in this rulemaking action. Regulatory Findings The FAA has determined that 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 E:\FR\FM\26MRR1.SGM 26MRR1 Federal Register / Vol. 86, No. 57 / Friday, March 26, 2021 / Rules and Regulations 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: 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: a. Removing Airworthiness Directive (AD) 97–26–02, Amendment 39–10245 (62 FR 65749, December 16, 1997); and ■ b. Adding the following new AD: ■ ■ khammond on DSKJM1Z7X2PROD with RULES 2021–07–08 Airbus Helicopters Deutschland GmbH (Type Certificate Previously Held by Eurocopter Deutschland GmbH and Eurocopter Canada Ltd.): Amendment 39–21485; Docket No. FAA–2020–0696; Product Identifier 2018–SW–019–AD. (a) Applicability This airworthiness directive (AD) applies to Airbus Helicopters Deutschland GmbH Model BO–105A, BO–105C, BO–105S, BO– 105LS A–1, and BO–105LS A–3 helicopters, certificated in any category, with a main rotor (M/R) mast part number (P/N) 4619 305 032 of M/R mast assembly P/N 4638 205 005, or M/R mast P/N 4639 305 002 of M/R mast assembly P/N 4639 205 017. Note 1 to Paragraph (a): M/R mast assembly P/N 4639 205 017 may also contain reinforced M/R mast P/N 4639 305 095, which is not affected by this AD. (b) Unsafe Condition This AD defines the unsafe condition as cracks in the M/R mast flange (flange). This condition could result in failure of the flange and subsequent loss of control of the helicopter. VerDate Sep<11>2014 16:24 Mar 25, 2021 Jkt 253001 This AD replaces AD 97–26–02, Amendment 39–10245 (62 FR 65749, December 16, 1997). (d) Effective Date This AD becomes effective April 30, 2021. (e) Compliance You are responsible for performing each action required by this AD within the specified compliance time unless it has already been accomplished prior to that time. (f) Required Actions (1) Before further flight and thereafter at intervals not to exceed 100 hours time-inservice, visually inspect the flange in the ribbed area for cracks using a 5-power or higher magnifying glass in accordance with paragraphs 2.A.1. and 2.A.2. of the Accomplishment Instructions in Eurocopter Deutschland GmbH Alert Service Bulletin No. ASB–BO 105–10–110, dated August 27, 1997. (2) If there is a crack, remove from service the cracked M/R mast and replace it with an airworthy M/R mast. (g) Alternative Methods of Compliance (AMOCs) PART 39—AIRWORTHINESS DIRECTIVES § 39.13 (c) Affected ADs (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 (h)(1) of this AD. Information may be emailed to: 9-AVS-AIR730-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. (h) Related Information (1) For more information about this AD, contact Matt Fuller, AD Program Manager, Operational Safety Branch, Airworthiness Products Section, General Aviation & Rotorcraft Unit, FAA, 10101 Hillwood Pkwy., Fort Worth, TX 76177; telephone 817–222– 5110; email matthew.fuller@faa.gov. (2) The subject of this AD is addressed in European Aviation Safety Agency (now European Union Aviation Safety Agency) (EASA) AD 2018–0056, dated March 14, 2018; and Transport Canada AD CF–1997– 18R1, dated March 12, 2018. You may view the EASA and Transport Canada ADs on the internet at https://www.regulations.gov in Docket No. FAA–2020–0696. (i) Subject Joint Aircraft Service Component (JASC) Code: 6230, Main Rotor Mast/Swashplate PO 00000 Frm 00017 Fmt 4700 Sfmt 4700 16043 (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. (3) The following service information was approved for IBR on December 31, 1997 (62 FR 65749, December 16, 1997). (i) Eurocopter Deutshland GmbH Alert Service Bulletin No. ASB–BO 105–10–110, dated August 27, 1997. (ii) [Reserved] (4) 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. (5) 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. (6) 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 March 20, 2021. Gaetano A. Sciortino, Deputy Director for Strategic Initiatives, Compliance & Airworthiness Division, Aircraft Certification Service. [FR Doc. 2021–06205 Filed 3–25–21; 8:45 am] BILLING CODE 4910–13–P DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION Federal Aviation Administration 14 CFR Part 39 [Docket No. FAA–2020–1136; Project Identifier MCAI–2020–01301–R; Amendment 39–21468; AD 2021–06–02] RIN 2120–AA64 Airworthiness Directives; Airbus Helicopters Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), DOT. ACTION: Final rule. AGENCY: The FAA is adopting a new airworthiness directive (AD) for all Airbus Helicopters Model AS332L, AS332L1, AS332C, and AS332C1 helicopters. This AD was prompted by the failure of a second stage planet gear installed in the main gearbox (MGB). This AD requires identifying the part number of each second stage planet gear SUMMARY: E:\FR\FM\26MRR1.SGM 26MRR1

Agencies

[Federal Register Volume 86, Number 57 (Friday, March 26, 2021)]
[Rules and Regulations]
[Pages 16041-16043]
From the Federal Register Online via the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]
[FR Doc No: 2021-06205]


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

DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION

Federal Aviation Administration

14 CFR Part 39

[Docket No. FAA-2020-0696; Product Identifier 2018-SW-019-AD; Amendment 
39-21485; AD 2021-07-08]
RIN 2120-AA64


Airworthiness Directives; Airbus Helicopters Deutschland GmbH 
(Type Certificate Previously Held by Eurocopter Deutschland GmbH and 
Eurocopter Canada Ltd.) Helicopters

AGENCY: Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), DOT.

ACTION: Final rule.

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

SUMMARY: The FAA is superseding Airworthiness Directive (AD) 97-26-02 
for Eurocopter Deutschland GmbH Model BO-105A, BO-105C, BO-105S, BO-
105LS A-1, and BO-105LS A-3 helicopters; and Eurocopter Canada Ltd. 
Model BO-105LS A-3 helicopters. AD 97-26-02 required a repetitive 
visual inspection for cracks in the ribbed area of the main rotor (M/R) 
mast flange (flange), and depending on the outcome, replacing the M/R 
mast. This new AD retains the requirements of AD 97-26-02 and removes 
the reinforced M/R mast from the applicability. This AD was prompted by 
the determination that a certain reinforced M/R mast is not affected by 
the unsafe condition. The actions of this AD are intended to address an 
unsafe condition on these products.

DATES: This AD is effective April 30, 2021.
    The Director of the Federal Register approved the incorporation by 
reference of a certain publication listed in this AD as of December 31, 
1997 (62 FR 65749, December 16, 1997).

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 this 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-
0696.

Examining the AD Docket

    You may examine the AD docket on the internet at https://

[[Page 16042]]

www.regulations.gov in Docket No. FAA-2020-0696; 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, 
the Transport Canada 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: Matt Fuller, AD Program Manager, 
Operational Safety Branch, Airworthiness Products Section, General 
Aviation & Rotorcraft Unit, 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 to remove AD 97-26-02, Amendment 39-10245 (62 FR 65749, 
December 16, 1997) (AD 97-26-02), and add a new AD. AD 97-26-02 applied 
to Eurocopter Deutschland GmbH Model BO-105A, BO-105C, BO-105LS A-1, 
and BO-105LS A-3 helicopters and Eurocopter Canada Ltd. Model BO-105LS 
A-3 helicopters. AD 97-26-02 was prompted by Luftfahrt-Bundesamt (LBA) 
AD 97-275, effective September 25, 1997, issued by LBA, which is the 
airworthiness authority for Germany, to correct an unsafe condition for 
Eurocopter Deutschland GmbH Model BO 105 helicopters; and Transport 
Canada AD CF-97-18, dated September 30, 1997 (Transport Canada AD CF-
97-18), issued by Transport Canada, which is the aviation authority for 
Canada. The LBA and Transport Canada ADs required an immediate and 
repetitive visual inspection for a crack in the flange area after an M/
R mast was found to have cracks of critical magnitude.
    The NPRM published in the Federal Register on July 17, 2020 (85 FR 
43506). The NPRM proposed to continue to require the repetitive visual 
inspection for a crack in the ribbed area of the M/R mast flange, and 
if there is a crack, removing from service the M/R mast and replacing 
it with an airworthy M/R mast.
    The NPRM was prompted by EASA AD 2018-0056, dated March 14, 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 (previously Eurocopter Deutschland GmbH, 
Eurocopter Hubschrauber GmbH, Messerschmitt-B[ouml]lkow-Blohm GmbH, 
Eurocopter Canada Ltd, Messerschmitt-B[ouml]lkow-Blohm Helicopter 
Canada Ltd.) Model BO105 A, BO105 C, BO105 D, BO105 LS A-1, BO105 LS A-
3 and BO105 S helicopters. EASA advises of the transfer of type 
certificate responsibility of Eurocopter Canada Ltd. Model BO-105LS A-3 
helicopters to Eurocopter Deutschland GmbH and the determination that 
reinforced M/R mast part number (P/N) 4639 305 095 of M/R mast assembly 
P/N 4639 205 017 is not affected by this unsafe condition. The EASA AD 
retains the repetitive visual inspection requirements but only for 
helicopters with M/R mast P/N 4619 305 032 of M/R mast assembly P/N 
4638 205 005, and M/R mast P/N 4639 305 002 of M/R mast assembly P/N 
4639 205 017. With the transfer of type certificate responsibility of 
Eurocopter Canada Ltd. Model BO-105LS A-3 helicopters, Transport Canada 
issued Transport Canada AD CF-1997-18R1, dated March 12, 2018, to 
cancel Transport Canada AD CF-97-18.
    Also, since the FAA issued AD 97-26-02, Eurocopter Deutschland GmbH 
changed its name to Airbus Helicopters Deutschland GmbH. This AD 
reflects that change and updates the contact information to obtain 
service documentation.

Comments

    The FAA gave the public the opportunity to participate in 
developing this final rule, but the FAA did not receive any comments on 
the NPRM or on the determination of the cost to the public.

FAA's Determination

    These helicopters has 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 specifies contacting Airbus Helicopters if there is a 
crack in the flange, whereas this AD requires replacing the M/R mast 
instead. Also, the EASA AD applies to Model BO105 D and BO105 S 
helicopters; this AD does not as these model helicopters are not type-
certificated in the U.S.

Related Service Information Under 1 CFR Part 51

    Eurocopter Deutschland GmbH has issued Alert Service Bulletin No. 
ASB-BO 105-10-110, dated August 27, 1997, which specifies procedures 
for repetitive visual inspections of the flange for cracks.
    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 21 helicopters of U.S. 
Registry. The FAA estimates that operators may incur the following 
costs in order to comply with this AD. Labor costs are estimated at $85 
per work-hour.
    Inspecting the flange takes about 0.25 work-hour for an estimated 
cost of $21 per helicopter and $441 for the U.S. fleet per inspection 
cycle.
    Replacing the M/R mast takes about 8 work-hours and parts cost 
about $30,000 for an estimated cost of $30,680 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 products identified in this rulemaking action.

Regulatory Findings

    The FAA has determined that 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

[[Page 16043]]

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:
0
a. Removing Airworthiness Directive (AD) 97-26-02, Amendment 39-10245 
(62 FR 65749, December 16, 1997); and
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b. Adding the following new AD:


2021-07-08 Airbus Helicopters Deutschland GmbH (Type Certificate 
Previously Held by Eurocopter Deutschland GmbH and Eurocopter Canada 
Ltd.): Amendment 39-21485; Docket No. FAA-2020-0696; Product 
Identifier 2018-SW-019-AD.

(a) Applicability

    This airworthiness directive (AD) applies to Airbus Helicopters 
Deutschland GmbH Model BO-105A, BO-105C, BO-105S, BO-105LS A-1, and 
BO-105LS A-3 helicopters, certificated in any category, with a main 
rotor (M/R) mast part number (P/N) 4619 305 032 of M/R mast assembly 
P/N 4638 205 005, or M/R mast P/N 4639 305 002 of M/R mast assembly 
P/N 4639 205 017.

    Note 1 to Paragraph (a):  M/R mast assembly P/N 4639 205 017 may 
also contain reinforced M/R mast P/N 4639 305 095, which is not 
affected by this AD.

(b) Unsafe Condition

    This AD defines the unsafe condition as cracks in the M/R mast 
flange (flange). This condition could result in failure of the 
flange and subsequent loss of control of the helicopter.

(c) Affected ADs

    This AD replaces AD 97-26-02, Amendment 39-10245 (62 FR 65749, 
December 16, 1997).

(d) Effective Date

    This AD becomes effective April 30, 2021.

(e) Compliance

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

 (f) Required Actions

    (1) Before further flight and thereafter at intervals not to 
exceed 100 hours time-in-service, visually inspect the flange in the 
ribbed area for cracks using a 5-power or higher magnifying glass in 
accordance with paragraphs 2.A.1. and 2.A.2. of the Accomplishment 
Instructions in Eurocopter Deutschland GmbH Alert Service Bulletin 
No. ASB-BO 105-10-110, dated August 27, 1997.
    (2) If there is a crack, remove from service the cracked M/R 
mast and replace it with an airworthy M/R mast.

(g) 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 (h)(1) of 
this AD. Information may be emailed to: [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) Related Information

    (1) For more information about this AD, contact Matt Fuller, AD 
Program Manager, Operational Safety Branch, Airworthiness Products 
Section, General Aviation & Rotorcraft Unit, FAA, 10101 Hillwood 
Pkwy., Fort Worth, TX 76177; telephone 817-222-5110; email 
[email protected].
    (2) The subject of this AD is addressed in European Aviation 
Safety Agency (now European Union Aviation Safety Agency) (EASA) AD 
2018-0056, dated March 14, 2018; and Transport Canada AD CF-1997-
18R1, dated March 12, 2018. You may view the EASA and Transport 
Canada ADs on the internet at https://www.regulations.gov in Docket 
No. FAA-2020-0696.

(i) Subject

    Joint Aircraft Service Component (JASC) Code: 6230, Main Rotor 
Mast/Swashplate

(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.
    (3) The following service information was approved for IBR on 
December 31, 1997 (62 FR 65749, December 16, 1997).
    (i) Eurocopter Deutshland GmbH Alert Service Bulletin No. ASB-BO 
105-10-110, dated August 27, 1997.
    (ii) [Reserved]
    (4) 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.
    (5) 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.
    (6) 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 March 20, 2021.
Gaetano A. Sciortino,
Deputy Director for Strategic Initiatives, Compliance & Airworthiness 
Division, Aircraft Certification Service.
[FR Doc. 2021-06205 Filed 3-25-21; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE 4910-13-P

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