Airworthiness Directives; Austro Engine GmbH Engines, 21637-21641 [2021-08558]

Download as PDF Federal Register / Vol. 86, No. 77 / Friday, April 23, 2021 / Rules and Regulations the person identified in paragraph (j)(1) of this AD. Information may be emailed to: 9ANM-LAACO-AMOC-Requests@faa.gov. (2) Before using any approved AMOC, notify your appropriate principal inspector, or lacking a principal inspector, the manager of the responsible Flight Standards Office. (3) An AMOC that provides an acceptable level of safety may be used for any repair, modification, or alteration required by this AD if it is approved by The Boeing Company Organization Designation Authorization (ODA) that has been authorized by the Manager, Los Angeles ACO Branch, FAA, to make those findings. To be approved, the repair method, modification deviation, or alteration deviation must meet the certification basis of the airplane, and the approval must specifically refer to this AD. khammond on DSKJM1Z7X2PROD with RULES (j) Related Information (1) For more information about this AD, contact Wayne Ha, Aerospace Engineer, Airframe Section, FAA, Los Angeles ACO Branch, 3960 Paramount Boulevard, Lakewood, CA 90712–4137; phone: 562–627– 5238; fax: 562–627–5210; email: wayne.ha@ faa.gov. (2) Service information identified in this AD that is not incorporated by reference is available at the addresses specified in paragraphs (k)(3) and (5) of this AD. (k) Material Incorporated by Reference (1) The Director of the Federal Register approved the incorporation by reference (IBR) of the service information listed in this paragraph under 5 U.S.C. 552(a) and 1 CFR part 51. (2) You must use this service information as applicable to do the actions required by this AD, unless the AD specifies otherwise. (i) Boeing Alert Requirements Bulletin 737–57A1349 RB, dated April 14, 2020. (ii) Aviation Partners Boeing Alert Service Bulletin AP737C–57–003, dated July 28, 2020. (3) For Boeing service information identified in this AD, contact Boeing Commercial Airplanes, Attention: Contractual & Data Services (C&DS), 2600 Westminster Blvd., MC 110–SK57, Seal Beach, CA 90740–5600; telephone 562–797– 1717; internet https:// www.myboeingfleet.com. (4) For Aviation Partners Boeing service information identified in this AD, contact Aviation Partners Boeing, 2811 South 102nd St., Suite 200, Seattle, WA 98168; phone: 206–830–7699; fax: 206–767–0535; email: leng@aviationpartners.com; internet: https:// www.aviationpartnersboeing.com. (5) You may view this service information 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. (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. VerDate Sep<11>2014 16:04 Apr 22, 2021 Jkt 253001 Issued on April 5, 2021. Lance T. Gant, Director, Compliance & Airworthiness Division, Aircraft Certification Service. [FR Doc. 2021–08508 Filed 4–22–21; 8:45 am] BILLING CODE 4910–13–P DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION Federal Aviation Administration 14 CFR Part 39 [Docket No. FAA–2021–0311; Project Identifier MCAI–2021–00244–E; Amendment 39–21517; AD 2021–09–04] RIN 2120–AA64 Airworthiness Directives; Austro Engine GmbH Engines Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), DOT. ACTION: Final rule; request for comments. AGENCY: The FAA is adopting a new airworthiness directive (AD) for all Austro Engine GmbH E4 and E4P model diesel piston engines. This AD was prompted by reports of an oil pump blockage on E4 model diesel piston engines. This AD requires replacing a certain oil pump as well as the oil filter and engine oil. The FAA is issuing this AD to address the unsafe condition on these products. DATES: This AD is effective May 10, 2021. The Director of the Federal Register approved the incorporation by reference of a certain publication listed in this AD as of May 10, 2021. The FAA must receive comments on this AD by June 7, 2021. ADDRESSES: You may send comments, using the procedures found in 14 CFR 11.43 and 11.45, by any of the following methods: • Federal eRulemaking Portal: Go to https://www.regulations.gov. Follow the instructions for submitting comments. • Fax: (202) 493–2251. • Mail: U.S. Department of Transportation, Docket Operations, M– 30, West Building Ground Floor, Room W12–140, 1200 New Jersey Avenue SE, Washington, DC 20590. • Hand Delivery: Deliver to Mail address above between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m., Monday through Friday, except Federal holidays. For service information identified in this final rule, contact Austro Engine GmbH, Rudolf-Diesel-Strasse 11, 2700 Weiner Neustadt, Austria; phone: +43 2622 23000 2525; website: www.austroengine.at. You may view SUMMARY: PO 00000 Frm 00003 Fmt 4700 Sfmt 4700 21637 this service information at the FAA, Airworthiness Products Section, Operational Safety Branch, 1200 District Avenue, Burlington, MA 01803. For information on the availability of this material at the FAA, call (781) 238– 7759. It is also available at https:// www.regulations.gov by searching for and locating Docket No. FAA–2021– 0311. Examining the AD Docket You may examine the AD docket at https://www.regulations.gov by searching for and locating Docket No. FAA–2021–0311; 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, the mandatory continuing airworthiness information (MCAI), any comments received, and other information. The street address for the Docket Operations is listed above. FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Wego Wang, Aviation Safety Engineer, ECO Branch, FAA, 1200 District Avenue, Burlington, MA 01803; phone: (781) 238–7134; fax: (781) 238–7199; email: wego.wang@faa.gov. SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: Background The European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA), which is the Technical Agent for the Member States of the European Community, issued EASA Emergency AD 2021–0055–E, dated February 25, 2021. EASA Emergency AD 2021–0055–E was revised by EASA AD 2021–0055R1, dated March 10, 2021. EASA AD 2021–0055R1 was superseded by EASA AD 2021–0094, dated March 31, 2021 (referred to after this as ‘‘the MCAI’’), to address the unsafe condition on these products. The MCAI states: Occurrences were reported of oil pump blockage on E4–A and E4–B engines. Subsequent investigation determined that the blockage was caused by oil contamination with casting sand from the production process of oil pump P/N E4A–50–000–BHY. A blocked oil pump causes failure of the engine lubrication system. The root cause was found in the sand casted oil pump housing cleaning process, which was not properly performed. This condition, if not corrected, could lead to engine in-flight shut-down with consequent forced landing, possibly resulting in damage to the aeroplane and injury to occupants. To address this potential unsafe condition, Austro Engine published the SB at original issue (later revised to add affected part s/n) to provide instructions to replace the affected oil pumps, and EASA issued AD 2021–0055– E to require replacement of affected parts, and replacement of the oil and filter. E:\FR\FM\23APR1.SGM 23APR1 21638 Federal Register / Vol. 86, No. 77 / Friday, April 23, 2021 / Rules and Regulations Subsequently, [EASA] AD 2021–0055R1 was issued to refer to the SB at Revision 2, where certain engines were removed from the applicability. The SB at Revision 2 also expanded the list of affected part s/n, but without impact on [EASA] AD compliance, as all added s/n were still in stock and would not be delivered to operators anymore. Since that [EASA] AD was issued, it was determined that affected parts are installed on additional engines, and Austro Engine published the SB at Revision 3 to correct the list of affected engine s/n. An additional oil pump replacement option was introduced with SB Revision 4 (with no further change to the list of affected engines/parts). For the reason described above, this [EASA] AD retains the requirements of EASA AD 2021–0055R1, which is superseded, and refers to the SB at Revision 4 (including the additional engine s/n and the new oil pump replacement option). This [EASA] AD also expands the Applicability to include all engines where the affected part is eligible for installation, and prohibits (re)installation of an affected part on all engines. You may obtain further information by examining the MCAI in the AD docket at https://www.regulations.gov by searching for and locating Docket No. FAA–2021–0311. FAA’s Determination This product has been approved by EASA and is approved for operation in the United States. Pursuant to our bilateral agreement with the European Community, EASA has notified the FAA of the unsafe condition described in the MCAI and service information. The FAA is issuing this AD because the agency evaluated all the relevant information provided by EASA and determined the unsafe condition described previously is likely to exist or develop in other products of the same type design. khammond on DSKJM1Z7X2PROD with RULES Related Service Information Under 1 CFR Part 51 The FAA reviewed Austro Engine GmbH Mandatory Service Bulletin No. MSB–E4–030/4, Revision No. 4, dated March 30, 2021 (the MSB). This service information specifies procedures for replacing the affected oil pumps installed on E4 and E4P model diesel piston engines. This service information also specifies procedures for replacing the oil filter and engine oil installed on these engines. In addition, this service information identifies the applicable serial numbers (S/Ns) of affected E4 and E4P model diesel piston engines, the affected oil pumps requiring replacement, and an additional oil pump replacement option. This service information is reasonably available because the interested parties have access to it through their normal course VerDate Sep<11>2014 16:04 Apr 22, 2021 Jkt 253001 of business or by the means identified in the ADDRESSES section. AD Requirements This AD requires removing the affected oil pump from service and replacing it with a part eligible for installation. This AD also requires replacing the oil filter and engine oil. Differences Between the AD and the MCAI or Service Information The MSB specifies that the removed oil pump must be returned to Austro Engine GmbH. The MSB specifies that information, including the engine flight hours (FHs) recorded at the time of the oil pump replacement, must be sent to Austro Engine GmbH. This AD does not mandate sending the removed oil pump or information, including the engine flight hours recorded at the time of oil pump replacement, to Austro Engine GmbH. The MSB also specifies that for all engines with 10 FHs or less, to replace the affected oil pump, oil filter, and engine oil before the next flight. Whereas, this AD requires, for Group 1 and Group 2 engines with 10 FHs or less, replacement of the affected oil pump, oil filter, and engine oil within 30 days, before accumulating 10 FHs, or during the next scheduled maintenance, whichever occurs first after the effective date of this AD. Interim Action The FAA considers this AD an interim action. If final action is later identified, the FAA might consider further rulemaking. Justification for Immediate Adoption and Determination of the Effective Date Section 553(b)(3)(B) of the Administrative Procedure Act (APA) (5 U.S.C. 551 et seq.) authorizes agencies to dispense with notice and comment procedures for rules when the agency, for ‘‘good cause,’’ finds that those procedures are ‘‘impracticable, unnecessary, or contrary to the public interest.’’ Under this section, an agency, upon finding good cause, may issue a final rule without providing notice and seeking comment prior to issuance. Further, section 553(d) of the APA authorizes agencies to make rules effective in less than thirty days, upon a finding of good cause. An unsafe condition exists that requires the immediate adoption of this AD without providing an opportunity for public comments prior to adoption. The FAA has found that the risk to the flying public justifies foregoing notice and comment prior to adoption of this rule. The FAA received reports of an oil PO 00000 Frm 00004 Fmt 4700 Sfmt 4700 pump blockage on the E4, configured as E4–A and E4–B, model diesel piston engines. The manufacturer subsequently determined that the blockage was caused by oil contamination with casting sand from the production process of the oil pump. Austro Engine issued service information providing instructions for replacement of a certain oil pump, oil filter, and engine oil installed on E4 and E4P model diesel piston engines. A blocked oil pump can result in failure of the engine lubrication system, resulting in failure of the engine, inflight shutdown, and loss of the airplane. The FAA considers a blocked oil pump to be an urgent safety issue that requires immediate action to avoid loss of the airplane. Accordingly, notice and opportunity for prior public comment are impracticable and contrary to the public interest pursuant to 5 U.S.C. 553(b)(3)(B). In addition, the FAA finds that good cause exists pursuant to 5 U.S.C. 553(d) for making this amendment effective in less than 30 days, for the same reasons the FAA found good cause to forego notice and comment. Comments Invited The FAA invites you to send any written data, views, or arguments about this final rule. Send your comments to an address listed under ADDRESSES. Include ‘‘Docket No. FAA–2021–0311 and Project Identifier MCAI–2021– 00244–E’’ at the beginning of your comments. The most helpful comments reference a specific portion of the final rule, explain the reason for any recommended change, and include supporting data. The FAA will consider all comments received by the closing date and may amend this final rule because of those comments. Except for Confidential Business Information (CBI) as described in the following paragraph, and other information as described in 14 CFR 11.35, the FAA will post all comments received, without change, to https:// www.regulations.gov, including any personal information you provide. The agency will also post a report summarizing each substantive verbal contact received about this final rule. Confidential Business Information CBI is commercial or financial information that is both customarily and actually treated as private by its owner. Under the Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) (5 U.S.C. 552), CBI is exempt from public disclosure. If your comments responsive to this AD contain commercial or financial information that is customarily treated as private, E:\FR\FM\23APR1.SGM 23APR1 Federal Register / Vol. 86, No. 77 / Friday, April 23, 2021 / Rules and Regulations that you actually treat as private, and that is relevant or responsive to this AD, it is important that you clearly designate the submitted comments as CBI. Please mark each page of your submission containing CBI as ‘‘PROPIN.’’ The FAA will treat such marked submissions as confidential under the FOIA, and they will not be placed in the public docket of this AD. Submissions containing CBI should be sent to Wego Wang, Aviation 21639 Safety Engineer, ECO Branch, FAA, 1200 District Avenue, Burlington, MA 01803. Any commentary that the FAA receives which is not specifically designated as CBI will be placed in the public docket for this rulemaking. prior notice and comment. Because FAA has determined that it has good cause to adopt this rule without prior notice and comment, RFA analysis is not required. Regulatory Flexibility Act The FAA estimates that this AD affects 55 engines installed on airplanes of U.S. registry. The requirements of the Regulatory Flexibility Act (RFA) do not apply when an agency finds good cause pursuant to 5 U.S.C. 553 to adopt a rule without Costs of Compliance The FAA estimates the following costs to comply with this AD: ESTIMATED COSTS Action Labor cost Remove and replace the oil pump, oil filter, and engine oil. 16 work-hours × $85 per hour = $1,360. The FAA has included all known costs in its cost estimate. According to the manufacturer, however, some of the costs of this AD may be covered under warranty, thereby reducing the cost impact on affected operators. 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. khammond on DSKJM1Z7X2PROD with RULES 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 VerDate Sep<11>2014 16:04 Apr 22, 2021 Jkt 253001 Parts cost 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, and (2) Will not affect intrastate aviation in Alaska. 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: Cost per product $1,488 $1,360 Cost on U.S. operators $74,800 (b) Affected ADs None. (c) Applicability This AD applies to all Austro Engine GmbH E4 and E4P model diesel piston engines. (d) Subject Joint Aircraft System Component (JASC) Code 8550, Reciprocating Engine Oil System. (e) Unsafe Condition This AD was prompted by reports of an oil pump blockage on the E4 model diesel piston engines. The FAA is issuing this AD to prevent failure of the engine lubrication system. The unsafe condition, if not addressed, could result in failure of the engine, in-flight shutdown, and loss of the airplane. (f) Compliance PART 39—AIRWORTHINESS DIRECTIVES 1. The authority citation for part 39 continues to read as follows: ■ Authority: 49 U.S.C. 106(g), 40113, 44701. § 39.13 [Amended] 2. The FAA amends § 39.13 by adding the following new airworthiness directive: ■ 2021–09–04 Austro Engine GmbH: Amendment 39–21517; Docket No. FAA–2021–0311; Project Identifier MCAI–2021–00244–E. (a) Effective Date This airworthiness directive (AD) is effective May 10, 2021. PO 00000 Frm 00005 Fmt 4700 Sfmt 4700 Comply with this AD within the compliance times specified, unless already done. (g) Required Actions Within the compliance time specified in Table 1 to paragraph (g) of this AD: (1) Remove the oil pump, part number (P/ N) E4A–50–000–BHY, from service and replace with a part eligible for installation using the Accomplishment/Instructions, paragraph 2.2.1 or paragraph 2.2.2, of Austro Engine GmbH Mandatory Service Bulletin No. MSB–E4–030/4, Revision 4, dated March 30, 2021 (the MSB), as applicable. (2) Replace the oil filter and engine oil using the Accomplishment/Instructions, paragraph 2.2.1 or paragraph 2.2.2, of the MSB, as applicable. E:\FR\FM\23APR1.SGM 23APR1 21640 Federal Register / Vol. 86, No. 77 / Friday, April 23, 2021 / Rules and Regulations Engine Group Engine Flight Hours (FHs) Since New Compliance Time (after the effective date of this AD, unless otherwise specified) Group 1 engines and Group 2 engines 10 FHs or less Within 30 days, before accumulating 10 FHs, or during the next scheduled maintenance, whichever occurs first Group 1 engines More than 10 FHs, but less than 50 FHs Within 3 months or before accumulating 70 FHs since new, or during the next scheduled maintenance, whichever occurs first Group 1 engines 50 FHs or more Within 3 months or 20 FHs, or during the next scheduled maintenance, whichever occurs first Group 2 engines More than 10 FHs Within 3 months or 100 FHs, or during the next scheduled maintenance, whichever occurs first (h) No Reporting Requirements The reporting requirements in the Accomplishment/Instructions, paragraph 2.2., of the MSB, are not required by this AD. (i) Installation Prohibition After the effective date of this AD, do not install onto any engine an oil pump having a P/N and serial number (S/N) listed in paragraph 1.2., Engines Affected, of the MSB. (j) Definitions For the purpose of this AD: (1) Group 1 engines are E4 model diesel piston engines in configuration ‘‘–A’’ that are installed on single-engine airplanes. (2) Group 2 engines are E4 model diesel piston engines in configuration ‘‘–B’’ or ‘‘–C’’ and E4P model diesel piston engines that are installed on twin-engine airplanes. (3) A part eligible for installation is an oil pump with a P/N and S/N that is not listed in paragraph 1.2., Engines Affected, of the MSB. khammond on DSKJM1Z7X2PROD with RULES (k) Credit for Previous Actions You may take credit for replacing the oil pump, oil filter, and engine oil required by paragraph (g) of this AD if you performed these replacements before the effective date of this AD using the Accomplishment/ Instructions, paragraph 2.2., of Austro Engine GmbH MSB No. MSB–E4–030, Original Issue, dated February 18, 2021; Revision 1, dated VerDate Sep<11>2014 16:04 Apr 22, 2021 Jkt 253001 February 23, 2021; Revision 2, dated March 3, 2021; or Revision 3, dated March 18, 2021. for and locating it in Docket No. FAA–2021– 0311. (l) Alternative Methods of Compliance (AMOCs) (n) Material Incorporated by Reference (1) The Director of the Federal Register approved the incorporation by reference (IBR) of the service information listed in this paragraph under 5 U.S.C. 552(a) and 1 CFR part 51. (2) You must use this service information as applicable to do the actions required by this AD, unless the AD specifies otherwise. (i) Austro Engine GmbH Mandatory Service Bulletin No. MSB–E4–030/4, Revision 4, dated March 30, 2021. (ii) [Reserved] (3) For service information identified in this AD, you may contact Austro Engine GmbH, Rudolf-Diesel-Strasse 11, 2700 Weiner Neustadt, Austria; phone: +43 2622 23000 2525; website: www.austroengine.at. (4) You may view this service information at the FAA, Airworthiness Products Section, Operational Safety Branch, 1200 District Avenue, Burlington, MA 01803. For information on the availability of this material at the FAA, call (781) 238–7759. (5) You may view this service information that is incorporated by reference at the National Archives and Records Administration (NARA). For information on the availability of this material at NARA, email: fedreg.legal@nara.gov, or go to: https://www.archives.gov/federal-register/cfr/ ibr-locations.html. (1) The Manager, ECO Branch, FAA, has the authority to approve AMOCs for this AD, if requested using the procedures found in 14 CFR 39.19. In accordance with 14 CFR 39.19, send your request to your principal inspector or local Flight Standards District Office, as appropriate. If sending information directly to the manager of the certification office, send it to the attention of the person identified in Related Information. Information may be emailed to: ANE-ADAMOC@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. (m) Related Information (1) For more information about this AD, contact Wego Wang, Aviation Safety Engineer, ECO Branch, FAA, 1200 District Avenue, Burlington, MA 01803; phone: (781) 238–7134; fax: (781) 238–7199; email: wego.wang@faa.gov. (2) Refer to European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) AD 2021–0094, dated March 31, 2021, for more information. You may examine the EASA AD in the AD docket at https://www.regulations.gov by searching PO 00000 Frm 00006 Fmt 4700 Sfmt 4700 E:\FR\FM\23APR1.SGM 23APR1 ER23AP21.000</GPH> Table 1 to Paragraph (g) - Replacement of the Oil Pump, Oil Filter, and Engine Oil Federal Register / Vol. 86, No. 77 / Friday, April 23, 2021 / Rules and Regulations Issued on April 14, 2021. Gaetano A. Sciortino, Deputy Director for Strategic Initiatives, Compliance & Airworthiness Division, Aircraft Certification Service. [FR Doc. 2021–08558 Filed 4–21–21; 8:45 am] BILLING CODE 4910–13–P DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION Federal Aviation Administration 14 CFR Part 39 [Docket No. FAA–2021–0317; Project Identifier MCAI–2021–00175–R; Amendment 39–21520; AD 2021–09–07] RIN 2120–AA64 Airworthiness Directives; Airbus Helicopters Deutschland GmbH Helicopters Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), DOT. ACTION: Final rule; request for comments. AGENCY: The FAA is superseding Airworthiness Directive (AD) 2019–17– 02, which applied to certain Airbus Helicopters Deutschland GmbH (Airbus Helicopters) Model EC135P1, EC135P2, EC135P2+, EC135P3, EC135T1, EC135T2, EC135T2+, and EC135T3 helicopters. AD 2019–17–02 required inspecting certain part-numbered actuators for corrosion, removing them as necessary, and reporting certain information. This new AD continues to require inspecting certain partnumbered actuators, removing them as necessary, and reporting; and extends the compliance time for the initial inspection, expands the applicability, and includes new requirements for repetitive replacement of affected actuators; as specified in a European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) AD, which is incorporated by reference. This AD was prompted by a hard landing of a helicopter and the discovery of a ruptured and displaced tie bar inside the piston of the longitudinal single-axis actuator of the main rotor actuator (MRA). The FAA is issuing this AD to address the unsafe condition on these products. DATES: This AD becomes effective May 10, 2021. The Director of the Federal Register approved the incorporation by reference of a certain publication listed in this AD as of May 10, 2021. The FAA must receive comments on this AD by June 7, 2021. ADDRESSES: You may send comments, using the procedures found in 14 CFR khammond on DSKJM1Z7X2PROD with RULES SUMMARY: VerDate Sep<11>2014 16:04 Apr 22, 2021 Jkt 253001 11.43 and 11.45, by any of the following methods: • Federal eRulemaking Portal: Go to https://www.regulations.gov. Follow the instructions for submitting comments. • Fax: 202–493–2251. • Mail: U.S. Department of Transportation, Docket Operations, M– 30, West Building Ground Floor, Room W12–140, 1200 New Jersey Avenue SE, Washington, DC 20590. • Hand Delivery: Deliver to Mail address above between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m., Monday through Friday, except Federal holidays. For material 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–2021– 0317. Examining the AD Docket You may examine the AD docket on the internet at https:// www.regulations.gov by searching for and locating Docket No. FAA–2021– 0317; 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, any comments received, and other information. The street address for Docket Operations is listed above. Comments will be available in the AD docket shortly after receipt. FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Hal Jensen, Aerospace Engineer, Operational Safety Branch, Compliance & Airworthiness Division, FAA, 950 L’Enfant Plaza N SW, Washington, DC 20024; telephone 202–267–9167; email hal.jensen@faa.gov. SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: Discussion The FAA issued AD 2019–17–02, Amendment 39–19722 (84 FR 47410, September 10, 2019) (AD 2019–17–02), which applied to Airbus Helicopters Deutschland GmbH Model EC135P1, EC135P2, EC135P2+, EC135P3, EC135T1, EC135T2, EC135T2+, and EC135T3 helicopters with certain longitudinal, collective, and lateral PO 00000 Frm 00007 Fmt 4700 Sfmt 4700 21641 single-axis actuators installed having accumulated 6 or more years since manufacturing date or last overhaul, whichever occurred later. AD 2019–17– 02 required visually inspecting for corrosion on all external surfaces of the longitudinal, collective, and lateral single-axis actuators, and based on the inspection outcome, removing the single-axis actuators from service at different compliance times. AD 2019– 17–02 also required reporting certain information, along with photos of any corrosion, to Airbus Helicopters. The FAA issued AD 2019–17–02 to address corrosion in certain MRA components, which could result in failure of the component, failure of the MRA, and loss of control of the helicopter. Actions Since AD 2019–17–02 Was Issued Since the FAA issued AD 2019–17– 02, the agency has determined the unsafe condition affects all longitudinal, collective, and lateral single-axis actuators that have accumulated 4 or more years since manufacturing date or last overhaul. Also, Airbus Helicopters has developed repetitive replacement and repetitive inspection procedures for the tie bar located in the affected singleaxis actuators and addresses affected actuators with a manufacturing date or last overhaul of more than 4 years and less than 6 years, in addition to the affected actuators with a manufacturing date or last overhaul of more than 6 years. The EASA, which is the Technical Agent for the Member States of the European Union, has issued EASA AD 2020–0105, dated May 11, 2020 (EASA AD 2020–0105) (also referred to as the Mandatory Continuing Airworthiness Information, or the MCAI), to correct an unsafe condition for all Airbus Helicopters Deutschland GmbH Model EC135 P1, EC135 P2, EC135 P2+, EC135 P3, EC135 T1, EC135 T2, EC135 T2+, EC135 T3, EC635 P2+, EC635 P3, EC635 T1, EC635 T2+ and EC635 T3 helicopters, all variants, all serial numbers. Model EC635 P2+, EC635 P3, EC635 T1, EC635 T2+, and EC635 T3 helicopters are not certificated by the FAA and are not included on the U.S. type certificate data sheet except where the U.S. type certificate data sheet explains that the Model EC635T2+ helicopter having serial number 0858 was converted from Model EC635T2+ to Model EC135T2+; this proposed AD therefore does not include Model EC635 P2+, EC635 P3, EC635 T1, EC635 T2+, and EC635 T3 helicopters in the applicability. This AD was prompted by a hard landing of an Airbus Helicopters Model E:\FR\FM\23APR1.SGM 23APR1

Agencies

[Federal Register Volume 86, Number 77 (Friday, April 23, 2021)]
[Rules and Regulations]
[Pages 21637-21641]
From the Federal Register Online via the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]
[FR Doc No: 2021-08558]


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DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION

Federal Aviation Administration

14 CFR Part 39

[Docket No. FAA-2021-0311; Project Identifier MCAI-2021-00244-E; 
Amendment 39-21517; AD 2021-09-04]
RIN 2120-AA64


Airworthiness Directives; Austro Engine GmbH Engines

AGENCY: Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), DOT.

ACTION: Final rule; request for comments.

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

SUMMARY: The FAA is adopting a new airworthiness directive (AD) for all 
Austro Engine GmbH E4 and E4P model diesel piston engines. This AD was 
prompted by reports of an oil pump blockage on E4 model diesel piston 
engines. This AD requires replacing a certain oil pump as well as the 
oil filter and engine oil. The FAA is issuing this AD to address the 
unsafe condition on these products.

DATES: This AD is effective May 10, 2021.
    The Director of the Federal Register approved the incorporation by 
reference of a certain publication listed in this AD as of May 10, 
2021.
    The FAA must receive comments on this AD by June 7, 2021.

ADDRESSES: You may send comments, using the procedures found in 14 CFR 
11.43 and 11.45, by any of the following methods:
     Federal eRulemaking Portal: Go to https://www.regulations.gov. Follow the instructions for submitting comments.
     Fax: (202) 493-2251.
     Mail: U.S. Department of Transportation, Docket 
Operations, M-30, West Building Ground Floor, Room W12-140, 1200 New 
Jersey Avenue SE, Washington, DC 20590.
     Hand Delivery: Deliver to Mail address above between 9 
a.m. and 5 p.m., Monday through Friday, except Federal holidays.
    For service information identified in this final rule, contact 
Austro Engine GmbH, Rudolf-Diesel-Strasse 11, 2700 Weiner Neustadt, 
Austria; phone: +43 2622 23000 2525; website: www.austroengine.at. You 
may view this service information at the FAA, Airworthiness Products 
Section, Operational Safety Branch, 1200 District Avenue, Burlington, 
MA 01803. For information on the availability of this material at the 
FAA, call (781) 238-7759. It is also available at https://www.regulations.gov by searching for and locating Docket No. FAA-2021-
0311.

Examining the AD Docket

    You may examine the AD docket at https://www.regulations.gov by 
searching for and locating Docket No. FAA-2021-0311; 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, the 
mandatory continuing airworthiness information (MCAI), any comments 
received, and other information. The street address for the Docket 
Operations is listed above.

FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Wego Wang, Aviation Safety Engineer, 
ECO Branch, FAA, 1200 District Avenue, Burlington, MA 01803; phone: 
(781) 238-7134; fax: (781) 238-7199; email: [email protected].

SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION:

Background

    The European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA), which is the 
Technical Agent for the Member States of the European Community, issued 
EASA Emergency AD 2021-0055-E, dated February 25, 2021. EASA Emergency 
AD 2021-0055-E was revised by EASA AD 2021-0055R1, dated March 10, 
2021. EASA AD 2021-0055R1 was superseded by EASA AD 2021-0094, dated 
March 31, 2021 (referred to after this as ``the MCAI''), to address the 
unsafe condition on these products. The MCAI states:

    Occurrences were reported of oil pump blockage on E4-A and E4-B 
engines. Subsequent investigation determined that the blockage was 
caused by oil contamination with casting sand from the production 
process of oil pump P/N E4A-50-000-BHY. A blocked oil pump causes 
failure of the engine lubrication system. The root cause was found 
in the sand casted oil pump housing cleaning process, which was not 
properly performed.
    This condition, if not corrected, could lead to engine in-flight 
shut-down with consequent forced landing, possibly resulting in 
damage to the aeroplane and injury to occupants.
    To address this potential unsafe condition, Austro Engine 
published the SB at original issue (later revised to add affected 
part s/n) to provide instructions to replace the affected oil pumps, 
and EASA issued AD 2021-0055-E to require replacement of affected 
parts, and replacement of the oil and filter.

[[Page 21638]]

Subsequently, [EASA] AD 2021-0055R1 was issued to refer to the SB at 
Revision 2, where certain engines were removed from the 
applicability. The SB at Revision 2 also expanded the list of 
affected part s/n, but without impact on [EASA] AD compliance, as 
all added s/n were still in stock and would not be delivered to 
operators anymore. Since that [EASA] AD was issued, it was 
determined that affected parts are installed on additional engines, 
and Austro Engine published the SB at Revision 3 to correct the list 
of affected engine s/n. An additional oil pump replacement option 
was introduced with SB Revision 4 (with no further change to the 
list of affected engines/parts).
    For the reason described above, this [EASA] AD retains the 
requirements of EASA AD 2021-0055R1, which is superseded, and refers 
to the SB at Revision 4 (including the additional engine s/n and the 
new oil pump replacement option). This [EASA] AD also expands the 
Applicability to include all engines where the affected part is 
eligible for installation, and prohibits (re)installation of an 
affected part on all engines.

    You may obtain further information by examining the MCAI in the AD 
docket at https://www.regulations.gov by searching for and locating 
Docket No. FAA-2021-0311.

FAA's Determination

    This product has been approved by EASA and is approved for 
operation in the United States. Pursuant to our bilateral agreement 
with the European Community, EASA has notified the FAA of the unsafe 
condition described in the MCAI and service information. The FAA is 
issuing this AD because the agency evaluated all the relevant 
information provided by EASA and determined the unsafe condition 
described previously is likely to exist or develop in other products of 
the same type design.

Related Service Information Under 1 CFR Part 51

    The FAA reviewed Austro Engine GmbH Mandatory Service Bulletin No. 
MSB-E4-030/4, Revision No. 4, dated March 30, 2021 (the MSB). This 
service information specifies procedures for replacing the affected oil 
pumps installed on E4 and E4P model diesel piston engines. This service 
information also specifies procedures for replacing the oil filter and 
engine oil installed on these engines. In addition, this service 
information identifies the applicable serial numbers (S/Ns) of affected 
E4 and E4P model diesel piston engines, the affected oil pumps 
requiring replacement, and an additional oil pump replacement option. 
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.

AD Requirements

    This AD requires removing the affected oil pump from service and 
replacing it with a part eligible for installation. This AD also 
requires replacing the oil filter and engine oil.

Differences Between the AD and the MCAI or Service Information

    The MSB specifies that the removed oil pump must be returned to 
Austro Engine GmbH. The MSB specifies that information, including the 
engine flight hours (FHs) recorded at the time of the oil pump 
replacement, must be sent to Austro Engine GmbH. This AD does not 
mandate sending the removed oil pump or information, including the 
engine flight hours recorded at the time of oil pump replacement, to 
Austro Engine GmbH.
    The MSB also specifies that for all engines with 10 FHs or less, to 
replace the affected oil pump, oil filter, and engine oil before the 
next flight. Whereas, this AD requires, for Group 1 and Group 2 engines 
with 10 FHs or less, replacement of the affected oil pump, oil filter, 
and engine oil within 30 days, before accumulating 10 FHs, or during 
the next scheduled maintenance, whichever occurs first after the 
effective date of this AD.

Interim Action

    The FAA considers this AD an interim action. If final action is 
later identified, the FAA might consider further rulemaking.

Justification for Immediate Adoption and Determination of the Effective 
Date

    Section 553(b)(3)(B) of the Administrative Procedure Act (APA) (5 
U.S.C. 551 et seq.) authorizes agencies to dispense with notice and 
comment procedures for rules when the agency, for ``good cause,'' finds 
that those procedures are ``impracticable, unnecessary, or contrary to 
the public interest.'' Under this section, an agency, upon finding good 
cause, may issue a final rule without providing notice and seeking 
comment prior to issuance. Further, section 553(d) of the APA 
authorizes agencies to make rules effective in less than thirty days, 
upon a finding of good cause.
    An unsafe condition exists that requires the immediate adoption of 
this AD without providing an opportunity for public comments prior to 
adoption. The FAA has found that the risk to the flying public 
justifies foregoing notice and comment prior to adoption of this rule. 
The FAA received reports of an oil pump blockage on the E4, configured 
as E4-A and E4-B, model diesel piston engines. The manufacturer 
subsequently determined that the blockage was caused by oil 
contamination with casting sand from the production process of the oil 
pump. Austro Engine issued service information providing instructions 
for replacement of a certain oil pump, oil filter, and engine oil 
installed on E4 and E4P model diesel piston engines.
    A blocked oil pump can result in failure of the engine lubrication 
system, resulting in failure of the engine, in-flight shutdown, and 
loss of the airplane. The FAA considers a blocked oil pump to be an 
urgent safety issue that requires immediate action to avoid loss of the 
airplane. Accordingly, notice and opportunity for prior public comment 
are impracticable and contrary to the public interest pursuant to 5 
U.S.C. 553(b)(3)(B). In addition, the FAA finds that good cause exists 
pursuant to 5 U.S.C. 553(d) for making this amendment effective in less 
than 30 days, for the same reasons the FAA found good cause to forego 
notice and comment.

Comments Invited

    The FAA invites you to send any written data, views, or arguments 
about this final rule. Send your comments to an address listed under 
ADDRESSES. Include ``Docket No. FAA-2021-0311 and Project Identifier 
MCAI-2021-00244-E'' at the beginning of your comments. The most helpful 
comments reference a specific portion of the final rule, explain the 
reason for any recommended change, and include supporting data. The FAA 
will consider all comments received by the closing date and may amend 
this final rule because of those comments.
    Except for Confidential Business Information (CBI) as described in 
the following paragraph, and other information as described in 14 CFR 
11.35, the FAA will post all comments received, without change, to 
https://www.regulations.gov, including any personal information you 
provide. The agency will also post a report summarizing each 
substantive verbal contact received about this final rule.

Confidential Business Information

    CBI is commercial or financial information that is both customarily 
and actually treated as private by its owner. Under the Freedom of 
Information Act (FOIA) (5 U.S.C. 552), CBI is exempt from public 
disclosure. If your comments responsive to this AD contain commercial 
or financial information that is customarily treated as private,

[[Page 21639]]

that you actually treat as private, and that is relevant or responsive 
to this AD, it is important that you clearly designate the submitted 
comments as CBI. Please mark each page of your submission containing 
CBI as ``PROPIN.'' The FAA will treat such marked submissions as 
confidential under the FOIA, and they will not be placed in the public 
docket of this AD. Submissions containing CBI should be sent to Wego 
Wang, Aviation Safety Engineer, ECO Branch, FAA, 1200 District Avenue, 
Burlington, MA 01803. Any commentary that the FAA receives which is not 
specifically designated as CBI will be placed in the public docket for 
this rulemaking.

Regulatory Flexibility Act

    The requirements of the Regulatory Flexibility Act (RFA) do not 
apply when an agency finds good cause pursuant to 5 U.S.C. 553 to adopt 
a rule without prior notice and comment. Because FAA has determined 
that it has good cause to adopt this rule without prior notice and 
comment, RFA analysis is not required.

Costs of Compliance

    The FAA estimates that this AD affects 55 engines installed on 
airplanes of U.S. registry.
    The FAA estimates the following costs to comply with this AD:

                                                 Estimated Costs
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                                     Cost per      Cost on U.S.
                Action                         Labor cost           Parts cost        product        operators
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Remove and replace the oil pump, oil    16 work-hours x $85 per           $1,488          $1,360         $74,800
 filter, and engine oil.                 hour = $1,360.
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

    The FAA has included all known costs in its cost estimate. 
According to the manufacturer, however, some of the costs of this AD 
may be covered under warranty, thereby reducing the cost impact on 
affected operators.

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, and
    (2) Will not affect intrastate aviation in Alaska.

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:

2021-09-04 Austro Engine GmbH: Amendment 39-21517; Docket No. FAA-
2021-0311; Project Identifier MCAI-2021-00244-E.

(a) Effective Date

    This airworthiness directive (AD) is effective May 10, 2021.

(b) Affected ADs

    None.

(c) Applicability

    This AD applies to all Austro Engine GmbH E4 and E4P model 
diesel piston engines.

(d) Subject

    Joint Aircraft System Component (JASC) Code 8550, Reciprocating 
Engine Oil System.

(e) Unsafe Condition

    This AD was prompted by reports of an oil pump blockage on the 
E4 model diesel piston engines. The FAA is issuing this AD to 
prevent failure of the engine lubrication system. The unsafe 
condition, if not addressed, could result in failure of the engine, 
in-flight shutdown, and loss of the airplane.

(f) Compliance

    Comply with this AD within the compliance times specified, 
unless already done.

(g) Required Actions

    Within the compliance time specified in Table 1 to paragraph (g) 
of this AD:
    (1) Remove the oil pump, part number (P/N) E4A-50-000-BHY, from 
service and replace with a part eligible for installation using the 
Accomplishment/Instructions, paragraph 2.2.1 or paragraph 2.2.2, of 
Austro Engine GmbH Mandatory Service Bulletin No. MSB-E4-030/4, 
Revision 4, dated March 30, 2021 (the MSB), as applicable.
    (2) Replace the oil filter and engine oil using the 
Accomplishment/Instructions, paragraph 2.2.1 or paragraph 2.2.2, of 
the MSB, as applicable.

[[Page 21640]]

[GRAPHIC] [TIFF OMITTED] TR23AP21.000

(h) No Reporting Requirements

    The reporting requirements in the Accomplishment/Instructions, 
paragraph 2.2., of the MSB, are not required by this AD.

(i) Installation Prohibition

    After the effective date of this AD, do not install onto any 
engine an oil pump having a P/N and serial number (S/N) listed in 
paragraph 1.2., Engines Affected, of the MSB.

(j) Definitions

    For the purpose of this AD:
    (1) Group 1 engines are E4 model diesel piston engines in 
configuration ``-A'' that are installed on single-engine airplanes.
    (2) Group 2 engines are E4 model diesel piston engines in 
configuration ``-B'' or ``-C'' and E4P model diesel piston engines 
that are installed on twin-engine airplanes.
    (3) A part eligible for installation is an oil pump with a P/N 
and S/N that is not listed in paragraph 1.2., Engines Affected, of 
the MSB.

(k) Credit for Previous Actions

    You may take credit for replacing the oil pump, oil filter, and 
engine oil required by paragraph (g) of this AD if you performed 
these replacements before the effective date of this AD using the 
Accomplishment/Instructions, paragraph 2.2., of Austro Engine GmbH 
MSB No. MSB-E4-030, Original Issue, dated February 18, 2021; 
Revision 1, dated February 23, 2021; Revision 2, dated March 3, 
2021; or Revision 3, dated March 18, 2021.

(l) Alternative Methods of Compliance (AMOCs)

    (1) The Manager, ECO Branch, FAA, has the authority to approve 
AMOCs for this AD, if requested using the procedures found in 14 CFR 
39.19. In accordance with 14 CFR 39.19, send your request to your 
principal inspector or local Flight Standards District Office, as 
appropriate. If sending information directly to the manager of the 
certification office, send it to the attention of the person 
identified in Related Information. 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.

(m) Related Information

    (1) For more information about this AD, contact Wego Wang, 
Aviation Safety Engineer, ECO Branch, FAA, 1200 District Avenue, 
Burlington, MA 01803; phone: (781) 238-7134; fax: (781) 238-7199; 
email: [email protected].
    (2) Refer to European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) AD 
2021-0094, dated March 31, 2021, for more information. You may 
examine the EASA AD in the AD docket at https://www.regulations.gov 
by searching for and locating it in Docket No. FAA-2021-0311.

(n) Material Incorporated by Reference

    (1) The Director of the Federal Register approved the 
incorporation by reference (IBR) of the service information listed 
in this paragraph under 5 U.S.C. 552(a) and 1 CFR part 51.
    (2) You must use this service information as applicable to do 
the actions required by this AD, unless the AD specifies otherwise.
    (i) Austro Engine GmbH Mandatory Service Bulletin No. MSB-E4-
030/4, Revision 4, dated March 30, 2021.
    (ii) [Reserved]
    (3) For service information identified in this AD, you may 
contact Austro Engine GmbH, Rudolf-Diesel-Strasse 11, 2700 Weiner 
Neustadt, Austria; phone: +43 2622 23000 2525; website: 
www.austroengine.at.
    (4) You may view this service information at the FAA, 
Airworthiness Products Section, Operational Safety Branch, 1200 
District Avenue, Burlington, MA 01803. For information on the 
availability of this material at the FAA, call (781) 238-7759.
    (5) You may view this service information that is incorporated 
by reference at the National Archives and Records Administration 
(NARA). For information on the availability of this material at 
NARA, email: [email protected], or go to: https://www.archives.gov/federal-register/cfr/ibr-locations.html.


[[Page 21641]]


    Issued on April 14, 2021.
Gaetano A. Sciortino,
Deputy Director for Strategic Initiatives, Compliance & Airworthiness 
Division, Aircraft Certification Service.
[FR Doc. 2021-08558 Filed 4-21-21; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE 4910-13-P


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