Airworthiness Directives; Airbus Helicopters, 16043-16046 [2021-06239]
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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:
■
■
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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.
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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
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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:
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Federal Register / Vol. 86, No. 57 / Friday, March 26, 2021 / Rules and Regulations
assembly installed in the MGB,
replacing an MGB having certain second
stage planet gear assembly part numbers
with a serviceable MGB, modifying the
helicopter by installing a full flow
magnetic plug (FFMP), repetitively
inspecting the FFMP and the MGB
bottom housing and conical housing for
metal particles, analyzing any metal
particles that are found, and applying
corrective actions if necessary, as
specified in European Union Aviation
Safety Agency (EASA) ADs, which are
incorporated by reference. The FAA is
issuing this AD to address the 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 certain publications listed in this AD
as of April 30, 2021.
ADDRESSES: For material incorporated
by reference (IBR) in this AD, 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
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–2020–1136.
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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–
1136; 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 Shah, Aviation Safety
Engineer, Fort Worth ACO Branch,
FAA, 10101 Hillwood Pkwy., Fort
Worth, TX 76177; telephone 817 222
5538; email mahmood.g.shah@faa.gov.
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SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION:
Discussion
The EASA, which is the Technical
Agent for the Member States of the
European Union, has issued EASA AD
2020–0022R2, dated December 23, 2020
(EASA AD 2020–0022R2) (also referred
to as the Mandatory Continuing
Airworthiness Information, or the
MCAI), to correct an unsafe condition
for all Airbus Helicopters Model
AS332L, AS332L1, AS332C, and
AS332C1 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
AS332L, AS332L1, AS332C, and
AS332C1 helicopters. The NPRM
published in the Federal Register on
December 21, 2020 (85 FR 82977). The
NPRM was prompted by the failure of
a second stage planet gear installed in
the MGB of an Airbus Helicopters
Model EC225LP helicopter. Airbus
Helicopters Model AS332L, AS332L1,
AS332C, and AS332C1 helicopters have
a similar design to the affected Model
EC225LP helicopter, therefore, these
models may be subject to the unsafe
condition revealed on the Model
EC225LP helicopter. The NPRM
proposed to require identifying the part
number of each second stage planet gear
assembly installed in the MGB,
replacing an MGB having certain second
stage planet gear assembly part numbers
with a serviceable MGB, modifying the
helicopter by installing an FFMP,
repetitively inspecting the FFMP and
the MGB bottom housing and conical
housing for metal particles, analyzing
any metal particles that are found, and
applying corrective actions if necessary
as specified in an EASA AD.
The FAA is issuing this AD to address
failure of a second stage planet gear
installed in the MGB, which could
result in failure of the MGB and
subsequent 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 received no
comments on the NPRM or on the
determination of the cost to the public.
New EASA AD
In the NPRM, the FAA referred to
EASA AD 2020–0022R1, dated
September 18, 2020 (EASA AD 2020–
PO 00000
Frm 00018
Fmt 4700
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0022R1). Since the NPRM was issued,
EASA issued EASA AD 2020–0022R2,
which extends the compliance time for
installation of the FFMP.
The FAA determined that no
additional work is required for
helicopters that have accomplished the
actions as required by EASA AD 2020–
0022R1. Therefore, the FAA has revised
all applicable sections in this final rule
to also specify EASA AD 2020–0022R2.
Conclusion
The FAA reviewed the relevant data
and determined that air safety and the
public interest require adopting this
final rule with the changes described
previously and 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.
The FAA also determined that these
changes will not increase the economic
burden on any operator or increase the
scope of this final rule.
Related Service Information Under 1
CFR Part 51
EASA ADs 2020–0022R1 and 2020–
0022R2 describe procedures for
identifying the part number of each
second stage planet gear assembly
installed in the MGB, replacing an MGB
having certain second stage planet gear
assembly part numbers with a
serviceable MGB, modifying the
helicopter by installing an FFMP,
repetitively inspecting the FFMP and
the MGB bottom housing and conical
housing for metal particles, analyzing
any metal particles that are found, and
applicable corrective actions. The
corrective actions include replacing an
affected MGB with a serviceable MGB.
These documents are distinct since
EASA AD 2020–0022R2 extends the
compliance time for installation of the
FFMP.
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 11 helicopters of U.S. registry.
The FAA estimates the following costs
to comply with this AD:
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16045
ESTIMATED COSTS FOR REQUIRED ACTIONS
Labor cost
Parts cost
Cost per
product
Cost on U.S.
operators
8.50 work-hours × $85 per hour = $722.50 ................................................................................
$17,625
$18,347.50
$201,822.50
The FAA estimates the following
costs to do any necessary on-condition
actions that would be required based on
number of helicopters that might need
these on-condition actions:
the results of any required actions. The
FAA has no way of determining the
ESTIMATED COSTS OF ON-CONDITION ACTIONS
Labor cost
Parts cost
Cost per
product
40.50 work-hour × $85 per hour = $3,442.50 ............................
$275,000 (overhauled part) .......................................................
$278,442.50
According to the manufacturer, some
or all of the costs of this AD may be
covered under warranty, thereby
reducing the cost impact on affected
operators. The FAA does not control
warranty coverage for affected operators.
As a result, the FAA has included all
known costs in the cost estimate.
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.
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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,
VerDate Sep<11>2014
16:24 Mar 25, 2021
Jkt 253001
(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.
(e) Reason
This AD was prompted by the failure of a
second stage planet gear installed in the main
gearbox (MGB). The FAA is issuing this AD
to address failure of an MGB second stage
planet gear, which could result in failure of
the MGB and subsequent loss of control of
the helicopter.
List of Subjects in 14 CFR Part 39
(f) Compliance
Air transportation, Aircraft, Aviation
safety, Incorporation by reference,
Safety.
Comply with this AD within the
compliance times specified, unless already
done.
Adoption of the Amendment
(g) Requirements
Accordingly, under the authority
delegated to me by the Administrator,
the FAA amends 14 CFR part 39 as
follows:
PART 39—AIRWORTHINESS
DIRECTIVES
Except as specified in paragraph (h) of this
AD: Comply with all required actions and
compliance times specified in, and in
accordance with, European Union Aviation
Safety Agency (EASA) AD 2020–0022R1,
dated September 18, 2020 (EASA AD 2020–
0022R1); or EASA AD 2020–0022R2, dated
December 23, 2020 (EASA AD 2020–0022R2).
1. The authority citation for part 39
continues to read as follows:
(h) Exceptions to EASA ADs 2020–0022R1
and 2020–0022R2
■
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:
■
2021–06–02 Airbus Helicopters:
Amendment 39–21468; Docket No.
FAA–2020–1136; Project Identifier
MCAI–2020–01301–R.
(a) Effective Date
This airworthiness directive (AD) is
effective April 30, 2021.
(b) Affected ADs
None.
(c) Applicability
This AD applies to all Airbus Helicopters
Model AS332L, AS332L1, AS332C, and
AS332C1 helicopters, certificated in any
category.
(d) Subject
Joint Aircraft System Component (JASC)
Code 6320, Main Rotor Gear Box.
PO 00000
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(1) Where EASA ADs 2020–0022R1 and
2020–0022R2 refer to March 30, 2018 (the
effective date of EASA AD 2018–0066, dated
March 23, 2018) or February 21, 2020 (the
effective date of EASA AD 2020–0022, dated
February 7, 2020), this AD requires using the
effective date of this AD.
(2) The ‘‘Remarks’’ sections of EASA ADs
2020–0022R1 and 2020–0022R2 do not apply
to this AD.
(3) Where EASA ADs 2020–0022R1 and
2020–0022R2 refer to flight hours (FH), this
AD requires using hours time-in-service.
(4) Where the service information referred
to in paragraphs (5) and (6) of EASA ADs
2020–0022R1 and 2020–0022R2 specifies to
perform a metallurgical analysis and contact
the manufacturer if unsure about the
characterization of the particles collected,
this AD does not require contacting the
manufacturer to determine the
characterization of the particles collected.
(5) Although the service information
referred to in paragraph (6) of EASA ADs
2020–0022R1 and 2020–0022R2 specifies
that if any 16NCD13 particles are found send
a 1-liter sample of oil to the manufacturer,
this AD does not require that action.
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(6) Although the service information
referenced in EASA ADs 2020–0022R1 and
2020–0022R2 specifies to discard certain
parts, this AD does not include that
requirement.
(7) Although the service information
referenced in EASA ADs 2020–0022R1 and
2020–0022R2 specifies returning certain
parts to the manufacturer, this AD does not
require that action.
(8) Although the service information
referenced in EASA ADs 2020–0022R1 and
2020–0022R2 specifies to contact the
manufacturer if certain specified criteria are
exceeded, this AD does not include that
requirement.
(9) Although the service information
referenced in EASA ADs 2020–0022R1 and
2020–0022R2 specifies to submit certain
information to the manufacturer, this AD
does not include that requirement.
(10) Although the service information
referenced in EASA ADs 2020–0022R1 and
2020–0022R2 specifies to watch a video for
removing the grease from the full flow
magnetic plug (FFMP), using a cleaning
agent, and collecting particles, this AD does
not include that requirement.
(11) Where EASA ADs 2020–0022R1 and
2020–0022R2 require actions after the last
flight of the day or ‘‘ALF,’’ this AD requires
those actions before the first flight of the day.
(i) Special Flight Permit
Special flight permits may be issued in
accordance with 14 CFR 21.197 and 21.199
to operate the helicopter to a location where
the helicopter can be modified (if the
operator elects to do so), provided no
passengers are onboard.
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(j) 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 (k) 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.
Jkt 253001
[FR Doc. 2021–06239 Filed 3–25–21; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE 4910–13–P
DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION
Federal Aviation Administration
14 CFR Part 95
[Docket No. 31363; Amdt. No. 558]
Federal Aviation
Administration (FAA), DOT.
ACTION: Final rule.
AGENCY:
This amendment adopts
miscellaneous amendments to the
required IFR (instrument flight rules)
altitudes and changeover points for
certain Federal airways, jet routes, or
direct routes for which a minimum or
maximum en route authorized IFR
SUMMARY:
(l) 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.
16:24 Mar 25, 2021
Issued on March 8, 2021.
Gaetano A. Sciortino,
Deputy Director for Strategic Initiatives,
Compliance & Airworthiness Division,
Aircraft Certification Service.
IFR Altitudes; Miscellaneous
Amendments
(k) Related Information
For more information about this AD,
contact Mahmood Shah, Aviation Safety
Engineer, Fort Worth ACO Branch, FAA,
10101 Hillwood Pkwy., Fort Worth, TX
76177; telephone 817 222 5538; email
mahmood.g.shah@faa.gov.
VerDate Sep<11>2014
(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 2020–0022R1, dated September
18, 2020.
(ii) European Union Aviation Safety
Agency (EASA) AD 2020–0022R2, dated
December 23, 2020.
(3) For EASA AD 2020–0022R1 and EASA
AD 2020–0022R2, contact the EASA, KonradAdenauer-Ufer 3, 50668 Cologne, Germany;
telephone +49 221 8999 000; email ADs@
easa.europa.eu; Internet
www.easa.europa.eu. You may find this
EASA AD on the EASA website at https://
ad.easa.europa.eu.
Note 1 to paragraph (l)(3): EASA AD 2020–
0022R1 can be accessed in the zipped file at
the bottom of the web page for EASA AD
2020–0022R2. When EASA posts a revised
AD on their website, they watermark the
previous AD as ‘‘Revised,’’ alter the file name
by adding ‘‘_revised’’ to the end, and move
it into a zipped file attached at the bottom
of the AD web page.
(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–2020–1136.
(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.
PO 00000
Frm 00020
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altitude is prescribed. This regulatory
action is needed because of changes
occurring in the National Airspace
System. These changes are designed to
provide for the safe and efficient use of
the navigable airspace under instrument
conditions in the affected areas.
DATES: Effective 0901 UTC, April 22,
2021.
FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT:
Thomas J. Nichols, Flight Procedures
and Airspace Group, Flight
Technologies and Procedures Division,
Flight Standards Service, Federal
Aviation Administration. Mailing
Address: FAA Mike Monroney
Aeronautical Center, Flight Procedures
and Airspace Group, 6500 South
MacArthur Blvd., Registry Bldg 29
Room 104, Oklahoma City, OK 73125.
Telephone: (405) 954–4164.
SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: This
amendment to part 95 of the Federal
Aviation Regulations (14 CFR part 95)
amends, suspends, or revokes IFR
altitudes governing the operation of all
aircraft in flight over a specified route
or any portion of that route, as well as
the changeover points (COPs) for
Federal airways, jet routes, or direct
routes as prescribed in part 95.
The Rule
The specified IFR altitudes, when
used in conjunction with the prescribed
changeover points for those routes,
ensure navigation aid coverage that is
adequate for safe flight operations and
free of frequency interference. The
reasons and circumstances that create
the need for this amendment involve
matters of flight safety and operational
efficiency in the National Airspace
System, are related to published
aeronautical charts that are essential to
the user, and provide for the safe and
efficient use of the navigable airspace.
In addition, those various reasons or
circumstances require making this
amendment effective before the next
scheduled charting and publication date
of the flight information to assure its
timely availability to the user. The
effective date of this amendment reflects
those considerations. In view of the
close and immediate relationship
between these regulatory changes and
safety in air commerce, I find that notice
and public procedure before adopting
this amendment are impracticable and
contrary to the public interest and that
good cause exists for making the
amendment effective in less than 30
days.
Conclusion
The FAA has determined that this
regulation only involves an established
E:\FR\FM\26MRR1.SGM
26MRR1
]]>Agencies
[Federal Register Volume 86, Number 57 (Friday, March 26, 2021)]
[Rules and Regulations]
[Pages 16043-16046]
From the Federal Register Online via the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]
[FR Doc No: 2021-06239]
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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
AGENCY: Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), DOT.
ACTION: Final rule.
-----------------------------------------------------------------------
SUMMARY: 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
[[Page 16044]]
assembly installed in the MGB, replacing an MGB having certain second
stage planet gear assembly part numbers with a serviceable MGB,
modifying the helicopter by installing a full flow magnetic plug
(FFMP), repetitively inspecting the FFMP and the MGB bottom housing and
conical housing for metal particles, analyzing any metal particles that
are found, and applying corrective actions if necessary, as specified
in European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) ADs, which are
incorporated by reference. The FAA is issuing this AD to address the
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 certain publications listed in this AD as of April 30,
2021.
ADDRESSES: For material incorporated by reference (IBR) in this AD,
contact the EASA, Konrad-Adenauer-Ufer 3, 50668 Cologne, Germany;
telephone +49 221 8999 000; email [email protected]; internet
www.easa.europa.eu. You may find this material on the EASA website at
https://ad.easa.europa.eu. You may view this material at the FAA,
Office of the Regional Counsel, Southwest Region, 10101 Hillwood Pkwy.,
Room 6N-321, Fort Worth, TX 76177. For information on the availability
of this material at the FAA, call 817-222-5110. It is also available in
the AD docket on the internet at https://www.regulations.gov by
searching for and locating Docket No. FAA-2020-1136.
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-
1136; 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 Shah, Aviation Safety
Engineer, Fort Worth ACO Branch, FAA, 10101 Hillwood Pkwy., Fort Worth,
TX 76177; telephone 817 222 5538; 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 2020-0022R2, dated December 23, 2020
(EASA AD 2020-0022R2) (also referred to as the Mandatory Continuing
Airworthiness Information, or the MCAI), to correct an unsafe condition
for all Airbus Helicopters Model AS332L, AS332L1, AS332C, and AS332C1
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 AS332L, AS332L1, AS332C, and AS332C1 helicopters. The NPRM
published in the Federal Register on December 21, 2020 (85 FR 82977).
The NPRM was prompted by the failure of a second stage planet gear
installed in the MGB of an Airbus Helicopters Model EC225LP helicopter.
Airbus Helicopters Model AS332L, AS332L1, AS332C, and AS332C1
helicopters have a similar design to the affected Model EC225LP
helicopter, therefore, these models may be subject to the unsafe
condition revealed on the Model EC225LP helicopter. The NPRM proposed
to require identifying the part number of each second stage planet gear
assembly installed in the MGB, replacing an MGB having certain second
stage planet gear assembly part numbers with a serviceable MGB,
modifying the helicopter by installing an FFMP, repetitively inspecting
the FFMP and the MGB bottom housing and conical housing for metal
particles, analyzing any metal particles that are found, and applying
corrective actions if necessary as specified in an EASA AD.
The FAA is issuing this AD to address failure of a second stage
planet gear installed in the MGB, which could result in failure of the
MGB and subsequent 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 received no comments on the NPRM or
on the determination of the cost to the public.
New EASA AD
In the NPRM, the FAA referred to EASA AD 2020-0022R1, dated
September 18, 2020 (EASA AD 2020-0022R1). Since the NPRM was issued,
EASA issued EASA AD 2020-0022R2, which extends the compliance time for
installation of the FFMP.
The FAA determined that no additional work is required for
helicopters that have accomplished the actions as required by EASA AD
2020-0022R1. Therefore, the FAA has revised all applicable sections in
this final rule to also specify EASA AD 2020-0022R2.
Conclusion
The FAA reviewed the relevant data and determined that air safety
and the public interest require adopting this final rule with the
changes described previously and 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.
The FAA also determined that these changes will not increase the
economic burden on any operator or increase the scope of this final
rule.
Related Service Information Under 1 CFR Part 51
EASA ADs 2020-0022R1 and 2020-0022R2 describe procedures for
identifying the part number of each second stage planet gear assembly
installed in the MGB, replacing an MGB having certain second stage
planet gear assembly part numbers with a serviceable MGB, modifying the
helicopter by installing an FFMP, repetitively inspecting the FFMP and
the MGB bottom housing and conical housing for metal particles,
analyzing any metal particles that are found, and applicable corrective
actions. The corrective actions include replacing an affected MGB with
a serviceable MGB. These documents are distinct since EASA AD 2020-
0022R2 extends the compliance time for installation of the FFMP.
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 11 helicopters of U.S.
registry. The FAA estimates the following costs to comply with this AD:
[[Page 16045]]
Estimated Costs for Required Actions
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Cost per Cost on U.S.
Labor cost Parts cost product operators
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
8.50 work-hours x $85 per hour = $722.50..................... $17,625 $18,347.50 $201,822.50
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
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. The FAA has no way of determining the number of
helicopters that might need these on-condition actions:
Estimated Costs of On-Condition Actions
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Cost per
Labor cost Parts cost product
------------------------------------------------------------------------
40.50 work-hour x $85 per hour $275,000 (overhauled $278,442.50
= $3,442.50. part).
------------------------------------------------------------------------
According to the manufacturer, some or all of the costs of this AD
may be covered under warranty, thereby reducing the cost impact on
affected operators. The FAA does not control warranty coverage for
affected operators. As a result, the FAA has included all known costs
in the cost estimate.
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:
2021-06-02 Airbus Helicopters: Amendment 39-21468; Docket No. FAA-
2020-1136; Project Identifier MCAI-2020-01301-R.
(a) Effective Date
This airworthiness directive (AD) is effective April 30, 2021.
(b) Affected ADs
None.
(c) Applicability
This AD applies to all Airbus Helicopters Model AS332L, AS332L1,
AS332C, and AS332C1 helicopters, certificated in any category.
(d) Subject
Joint Aircraft System Component (JASC) Code 6320, Main Rotor
Gear Box.
(e) Reason
This AD was prompted by the failure of a second stage planet
gear installed in the main gearbox (MGB). The FAA is issuing this AD
to address failure of an MGB second stage planet gear, which could
result in failure of the MGB and subsequent 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 Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) AD
2020-0022R1, dated September 18, 2020 (EASA AD 2020-0022R1); or EASA
AD 2020-0022R2, dated December 23, 2020 (EASA AD 2020-0022R2).
(h) Exceptions to EASA ADs 2020-0022R1 and 2020-0022R2
(1) Where EASA ADs 2020-0022R1 and 2020-0022R2 refer to March
30, 2018 (the effective date of EASA AD 2018-0066, dated March 23,
2018) or February 21, 2020 (the effective date of EASA AD 2020-0022,
dated February 7, 2020), this AD requires using the effective date
of this AD.
(2) The ``Remarks'' sections of EASA ADs 2020-0022R1 and 2020-
0022R2 do not apply to this AD.
(3) Where EASA ADs 2020-0022R1 and 2020-0022R2 refer to flight
hours (FH), this AD requires using hours time-in-service.
(4) Where the service information referred to in paragraphs (5)
and (6) of EASA ADs 2020-0022R1 and 2020-0022R2 specifies to perform
a metallurgical analysis and contact the manufacturer if unsure
about the characterization of the particles collected, this AD does
not require contacting the manufacturer to determine the
characterization of the particles collected.
(5) Although the service information referred to in paragraph
(6) of EASA ADs 2020-0022R1 and 2020-0022R2 specifies that if any
16NCD13 particles are found send a 1-liter sample of oil to the
manufacturer, this AD does not require that action.
[[Page 16046]]
(6) Although the service information referenced in EASA ADs
2020-0022R1 and 2020-0022R2 specifies to discard certain parts, this
AD does not include that requirement.
(7) Although the service information referenced in EASA ADs
2020-0022R1 and 2020-0022R2 specifies returning certain parts to the
manufacturer, this AD does not require that action.
(8) Although the service information referenced in EASA ADs
2020-0022R1 and 2020-0022R2 specifies to contact the manufacturer if
certain specified criteria are exceeded, this AD does not include
that requirement.
(9) Although the service information referenced in EASA ADs
2020-0022R1 and 2020-0022R2 specifies to submit certain information
to the manufacturer, this AD does not include that requirement.
(10) Although the service information referenced in EASA ADs
2020-0022R1 and 2020-0022R2 specifies to watch a video for removing
the grease from the full flow magnetic plug (FFMP), using a cleaning
agent, and collecting particles, this AD does not include that
requirement.
(11) Where EASA ADs 2020-0022R1 and 2020-0022R2 require actions
after the last flight of the day or ``ALF,'' this AD requires those
actions before the first flight of the day.
(i) Special Flight Permit
Special flight permits may be issued in accordance with 14 CFR
21.197 and 21.199 to operate the helicopter to a location where the
helicopter can be modified (if the operator elects to do so),
provided no passengers are onboard.
(j) 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 (k) 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.
(k) Related Information
For more information about this AD, contact Mahmood Shah,
Aviation Safety Engineer, Fort Worth ACO Branch, FAA, 10101 Hillwood
Pkwy., Fort Worth, TX 76177; telephone 817 222 5538; email
[email protected].
(l) 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 2020-0022R1,
dated September 18, 2020.
(ii) European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) AD 2020-
0022R2, dated December 23, 2020.
(3) For EASA AD 2020-0022R1 and EASA AD 2020-0022R2, contact the
EASA, Konrad-Adenauer-Ufer 3, 50668 Cologne, Germany; telephone +49
221 8999 000; email [email protected]; Internet www.easa.europa.eu.
You may find this EASA AD on the EASA website at https://ad.easa.europa.eu.
Note 1 to paragraph (l)(3): EASA AD 2020-0022R1 can be accessed
in the zipped file at the bottom of the web page for EASA AD 2020-
0022R2. When EASA posts a revised AD on their website, they
watermark the previous AD as ``Revised,'' alter the file name by
adding ``_revised'' to the end, and move it into a zipped file
attached at the bottom of the AD web page.
(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-
2020-1136.
(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 March 8, 2021.
Gaetano A. Sciortino,
Deputy Director for Strategic Initiatives, Compliance & Airworthiness
Division, Aircraft Certification Service.
[FR Doc. 2021-06239 Filed 3-25-21; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE 4910-13-P
