Airworthiness Directives; Airbus Helicopters, 30151-30153 [2021-11803]

Download as PDF 30151 Rules and Regulations Federal Register Vol. 86, No. 107 Monday, June 7, 2021 This section of the FEDERAL REGISTER contains regulatory documents having general applicability and legal effect, most of which are keyed to and codified in the Code of Federal Regulations, which is published under 50 titles pursuant to 44 U.S.C. 1510. Examining the AD Docket The Code of Federal Regulations is sold by the Superintendent of Documents. DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION Federal Aviation Administration 14 CFR Part 39 [Docket No. FAA–2021–0016; Project Identifier 2019–SW–114–AD; Amendment 39–21567; AD 2021–11–05] 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 EC225LP helicopters. This AD was prompted by reports of an oil leak from the main gearbox (MGB) during engine start up. This AD requires modifying and performing subsequent repetitive function testing of the MGB emergency lubrication (EMLUB) system as specified in a European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) AD, which is incorporated by reference (IBR). The FAA is issuing this AD to address the unsafe condition on these products. DATES: This AD is effective July 12, 2021. The Director of the Federal Register approved the incorporation by reference of a certain publication listed in this AD as of July 12, 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 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 khammond on DSKJM1Z7X2PROD with RULES SUMMARY: VerDate Sep<11>2014 16:24 Jun 04, 2021 Jkt 253001 material at the FAA, call (817) 222– 5110. It is also available on the internet at https://www.regulations.gov by searching for and locating Docket No. FAA–2021–0016. You may examine the AD docket on the internet at https:// www.regulations.gov by searching for and locating Docket No. FAA–2021– 0016; or in person at Docket Operations between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m., Monday through Friday, except Federal holidays. The AD docket contains this final rule, any comments received, and other information. The address for Docket Operations is U.S. Department of Transportation, Docket Operations, M–30, West Building Ground Floor, Room W12–140, 1200 New Jersey Avenue SE, Washington, DC 20590. FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Hal Jensen, Aerospace Engineer, Operational Safety Branch, FAA, 950 L’Enfant Plaza N SW, Washington, DC 20024; telephone (202) 267–9167; email hal.jensen@faa.gov. SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: Background EASA, which is the Technical Agent for the Member States of the European Union, has issued EASA AD 2016–0232, dated November 22, 2016 (EASA AD 2016–0232), to correct an unsafe condition for Airbus Helicopters Model EC 225 LP helicopters. EASA later issued EASA AD 2016–0232R1, dated December 12, 2019 (EASA AD 2016– 0232R1), to revise EASA AD 2016–0232. 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 EC225LP helicopters. The NPRM published in the Federal Register on March 15, 2021 (86 FR 14281). The NPRM was prompted by reports of oil leaks during engine starting, originating from the MGB. The NPRM proposed to require modifying and repetitively functional testing the MGB EMLUB system, and if there is a discrepancy, accomplishing corrective action(s). Accomplishing any corrective action(s) does not constitute terminating action for the repetitive functional tests, as specified in an EASA AD. The FAA is issuing this AD to address inadvertent opening of the P 2.4 valve of the MGB EMLUB system, which PO 00000 Frm 00001 Fmt 4700 Sfmt 4700 results from MGB pressurization by compressed air produced by the engine during starting in response to a signal from the EMLUB electronic control card. See EASA AD 2016–0232R1 for additional background information. Discussion of Final Airworthiness Directive 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. Conclusion The FAA reviewed the relevant data and determined that air safety and the public interest require adopting this final rule as proposed, except for minor editorial changes. The FAA has determined that these minor changes are consistent with the intent that was proposed in the NPRM for addressing the unsafe condition and do not add any additional burden upon the public than was already proposed in the NPRM. Related Service Information Under 1 CFR Part 51 EASA AD 2016–0232R1 requires modifying the electrical control circuit of the MGB EMLUB system. After modifying, EASA AD 2016–0232R1 requires a repetitive functional test of the MGB EMLUB system, and if there is a discrepancy, accomplishing corrective action(s). Accomplishing any corrective action(s) does not constitute terminating action for the repetitive functional tests. This material is reasonably available because the interested parties have access to it through their normal course of business or by the means identified in the ADDRESSES section. Differences Between This AD and the EASA AD Where EASA AD 2016–0232R1 refers to December 6, 2016 (the effective date of EASA AD 2016–0232), this AD requires using the effective date of this final rule. EASA AD 2016–0232R1 allows an additional interval margin of 225 flight hours (FH), while this AD does not. Where the service information referenced in EASA AD 2016–0232R1 requires contacting Airbus Helicopters for corrective action, this AD requires accomplishing the corrective action using a method approved by the E:\FR\FM\07JNR1.SGM 07JNR1 30152 Federal Register / Vol. 86, No. 107 / Monday, June 7, 2021 / Rules and Regulations Manager, Strategic Policy Rotorcraft Section, FAA. Costs of Compliance The FAA estimates that this AD affects 24 helicopters of U.S. Registry. Labor rates are estimated at $85 per work-hour. Based on these numbers, the FAA estimates that operators may incur the following costs in order to comply with this AD. Modifying the electrical control circuit of the MGB EMLUB system takes about 22 work-hours and parts cost about $1,592 for an estimated cost of $3,462 per helicopter and $83,088 for the U.S. fleet. Functional testing the EMLUB system takes about 12 work-hours for an estimated cost of $1,020 per helicopter and $24,480 for U.S. fleet, per testing cycle. If the electrical functional test results in a need to replace the lubrication printed circuit board, the replacement time takes about 2 workhours and parts cost about $5,150 for an estimated cost of $5,320 per helicopter. khammond on DSKJM1Z7X2PROD with RULES 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 VerDate Sep<11>2014 16:24 Jun 04, 2021 Jkt 253001 (3) Will not have a significant economic impact, positive or negative, on a substantial number of small entities under the criteria of the Regulatory Flexibility Act. List of Subjects in 14 CFR Part 39 Air transportation, Aircraft, Aviation safety, Incorporation by reference, Safety. The Amendment Accordingly, under the authority delegated to me by the Administrator, the FAA amends 14 CFR part 39 as follows: PART 39—AIRWORTHINESS DIRECTIVES 1. The authority citation for part 39 continues to read as follows: ■ Authority: 49 U.S.C. 106(g), 40113, 44701. § 39.13 [Amended] 2. The FAA amends § 39.13 by adding the following new airworthiness directive: ■ 2021–11–05 Airbus Helicopters: Amendment 39–21567; Docket No. FAA–2021–0016; Project Identifier 2019–SW–114–AD. (a) Effective Date This airworthiness directive (AD) is effective July 12, 2021. (b) Affected Airworthiness Directives None. (c) Applicability This AD applies to all Airbus Helicopters Model EC225LP helicopters, certificated in any category. (d) Subject Joint Aircraft System Component (JASC) Code 6397, Main Rotor Drive System Wiring. (e) Reason This AD was prompted by reports of oil leaks during engine starting, originating from the main gearbox (MGB). The FAA is issuing this AD to address the inadvertent opening of the P 2.4 valve of the MGB emergency lubrication (EMLUB) system, which results from MGB pressurization by compressed air produced by the engine during starting in response to a signal from the EMLUB electronic control card. This condition could result in loss of the MGB lubrication system and a reduced ability of the crew to manage adverse operating conditions. (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 PO 00000 Frm 00002 Fmt 4700 Sfmt 4700 Safety Agency AD 2016–0232R1, dated December 12, 2019 (EASA AD 2016–0232R1). (h) Exceptions to EASA AD 2016–0232R1 (1) Where EASA AD 2016–0232R1 refers to December 6, 2016 (the effective date of European Aviation Safety Agency AD 2016– 0232, dated November 22, 2016), this AD requires using the effective date of this AD. (2) Where EASA AD 2016–0232R1 refers to flight hours (FH), this AD requires using hours time-in-service (TIS). (3) Where paragraph (2) of EASA AD 2016– 0232R1 allows an additional interval margin of 225 FH, this AD does not. This AD requires accomplishing the functional tests within 600 hours TIS, and thereafter at intervals not to exceed 600 hours TIS. (4) Where the service information referenced in EASA AD 2016–0232R1 requires contacting Airbus Helicopters technical support, this AD requires that the corrective action be accomplished using a method approved by the Manager, Strategic Policy Rotorcraft Section, FAA. The Manager’s approval letter must specifically refer to this AD. (5) The ‘‘Remarks’’ section of EASA AD 2016–0232R1 does not apply to this AD. (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 the helicopter is operated under visual flight rules and without passengers only. (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. (k) Related Information For more information about this AD, contact Hal Jensen, Aerospace Engineer, Operational Safety Branch, FAA, 950 L’Enfant Plaza N SW, Washington, DC 20024; telephone (202) 267–9167; email hal.jensen@ faa.gov. (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. E:\FR\FM\07JNR1.SGM 07JNR1 Federal Register / Vol. 86, No. 107 / Monday, June 7, 2021 / Rules and Regulations (i) European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) AD 2016–0232R1, dated December 12, 2019. (ii) [Reserved] (3) For EASA AD 2016–0232R1, contact the EASA, Konrad-Adenauer-Ufer 3, 50668 Cologne, Germany; telephone +49 221 8999 000; email ADs@easa.europa.eu; Internet www.easa.europa.eu. You may find this EASA AD on the EASA website at https:// ad.easa.europa.eu. (4) You may view this 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–2021–0016. (5) You may view this material that is incorporated by reference at the National Archives and Records Administration (NARA). For information on the availability of this material at NARA, email fedreg.legal@ nara.gov, or go to https://www.archives.gov/ federal-register/cfr/ibr-locations.html. Issued on May 11, 2021. Ross Landes, Deputy Director for Regulatory Operations, Compliance & Airworthiness Division, Aircraft Certification Service. [FR Doc. 2021–11803 Filed 6–4–21; 8:45 am] BILLING CODE 4910–13–P DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION Federal Aviation Administration 14 CFR Part 39 Examining the AD Docket [Docket No. FAA–2021–0452; Project Identifier MCAI–2021–00388–R; Amendment 39–21597; AD 2021–12–10] You may examine the AD docket at https://www.regulations.gov by searching for and locating Docket No. FAA–2021–0452; 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 European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) AD, any comments received, and other information. The street address for Docket Operations is listed above. FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Andrea Jimenez, Aerospace Engineer, COS Program Management Section, Operational Safety Branch, Compliance & Airworthiness Division, FAA, 1600 Stewart Ave., Mail Stop: Room 410, Westbury, NY 11590; phone: (516) 228– 7330; email: andrea.jimenez@faa.gov. SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: RIN 2120–AA64 Airworthiness Directives; Leonardo S.p.a. Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), DOT. ACTION: Final rule; request for comments. AGENCY: The FAA is adopting a new airworthiness directive (AD) for Leonardo S.p.a. Model AB139 and AW139 helicopters with 3-stretcher kit part number 139084–501 installed. This AD was prompted by a report of a design deficiency which affects the primary stretcher unit of the 3-stretcher kit. This AD requires installing a placard on the primary stretcher. The FAA is issuing this AD to address the unsafe condition on these products. DATES: This AD becomes effective June 22, 2021. The Director of the Federal Register approved the incorporation by reference SUMMARY: khammond on DSKJM1Z7X2PROD with RULES of a certain document listed in this AD as of June 22, 2021. The FAA must receive comments on this AD by July 22, 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 Aerolite AG, Aumu¨hlestrasse 10, CH–6373 Ennetbu¨rgen, Switzerland; phone: +41 (0)41 624 58 58; fax: +41 (0)41 624 58 59; email: info@aerolite.ch. 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. Service information that is incorporated by reference is also available at https://www.regulations.gov by searching for and locating Docket No. FAA–2021–0452. VerDate Sep<11>2014 16:24 Jun 04, 2021 Jkt 253001 30153 Leonardo S.p.a. Model AB139 and AW139 helicopters with 3-stretcher kit part number 139084–501 installed by a certain supplemental type certificate (STC). EASA advises that a design deficiency was identified, affecting the primary stretcher unit, part number 002095–502, of the 3-stretcher kit part number 139084–501. This condition, if not addressed, could lead, in case of an emergency landing, to failure of the primary stretcher of the 3-stretcher kit, possibly resulting in injury to helicopter occupants. Accordingly, EASA AD 2021–0095 requires installing a placard on the primary stretcher stating a limitation of 61 kg (134.5 lbs) for the maximum allowable weight of the occupant on the primary stretcher. EASA considers its AD an interim action and states that further AD action may follow. Although EASA AD 2021–0095 applies to Leonardo S.p.a. Model AB139 and AW139 helicopters with 3-stretcher kit part number 139084–501 installed by a certain STC, this AD applies to helicopters with an affected part installed instead. FAA’s Determination These helicopters have been approved by EASA and are approved for operation in the United States. Pursuant to the FAA’s bilateral agreement with the European Union, EASA has notified the FAA about the unsafe condition described in its AD. The FAA is issuing this AD after evaluating all known relevant information and determining that the unsafe condition described previously is likely to exist or develop on other helicopters of these same type designs. Related Service Information Under 1 CFR Part 51 The FAA reviewed Aerolite Alert Service Bulletin ASB–21–006, dated March 16, 2021. This service information specifies procedures for installing a weight limit placard on the primary stretcher unit of the 3-stretcher kit. 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. Background AD Requirements EASA, which is the Technical Agent for the Member States of the European Union, has issued EASA AD 2021–0095, dated March 31, 2021 (EASA AD 2021– 0095), to correct an unsafe condition for This AD requires accomplishing the actions specified in the service information already described, except as discussed under ‘‘Differences Between the AD and the EASA AD.’’ PO 00000 Frm 00003 Fmt 4700 Sfmt 4700 E:\FR\FM\07JNR1.SGM 07JNR1

Agencies

[Federal Register Volume 86, Number 107 (Monday, June 7, 2021)]
[Rules and Regulations]
[Pages 30151-30153]
From the Federal Register Online via the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]
[FR Doc No: 2021-11803]



========================================================================
Rules and Regulations
                                                Federal Register
________________________________________________________________________

This section of the FEDERAL REGISTER contains regulatory documents 
having general applicability and legal effect, most of which are keyed 
to and codified in the Code of Federal Regulations, which is published 
under 50 titles pursuant to 44 U.S.C. 1510.

The Code of Federal Regulations is sold by the Superintendent of Documents. 

========================================================================


Federal Register / Vol. 86, No. 107 / Monday, June 7, 2021 / Rules 
and Regulations

[[Page 30151]]



DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION

Federal Aviation Administration

14 CFR Part 39

[Docket No. FAA-2021-0016; Project Identifier 2019-SW-114-AD; Amendment 
39-21567; AD 2021-11-05]
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 EC225LP helicopters. This AD was prompted by 
reports of an oil leak from the main gearbox (MGB) during engine start 
up. This AD requires modifying and performing subsequent repetitive 
function testing of the MGB emergency lubrication (EMLUB) system as 
specified in a European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) AD, which 
is incorporated by reference (IBR). The FAA is issuing this AD to 
address the unsafe condition on these products.

DATES: This AD is effective July 12, 2021.
    The Director of the Federal Register approved the incorporation by 
reference of a certain publication listed in this AD as of July 12, 
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 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. It is 
also available on the internet at https://www.regulations.gov by 
searching for and locating Docket No. FAA-2021-0016.

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-
0016; or in person at Docket Operations between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m., 
Monday through Friday, except Federal holidays. The AD docket contains 
this final rule, any comments received, and other information. The 
address for Docket Operations is U.S. Department of Transportation, 
Docket Operations, M-30, West Building Ground Floor, Room W12-140, 1200 
New Jersey Avenue SE, Washington, DC 20590.

FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Hal Jensen, Aerospace Engineer, 
Operational Safety Branch, FAA, 950 L'Enfant Plaza N SW, Washington, DC 
20024; telephone (202) 267-9167; email [email protected].

SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION:

Background

    EASA, which is the Technical Agent for the Member States of the 
European Union, has issued EASA AD 2016-0232, dated November 22, 2016 
(EASA AD 2016-0232), to correct an unsafe condition for Airbus 
Helicopters Model EC 225 LP helicopters. EASA later issued EASA AD 
2016-0232R1, dated December 12, 2019 (EASA AD 2016-0232R1), to revise 
EASA AD 2016-0232.
    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 EC225LP helicopters. The NPRM published in the Federal Register 
on March 15, 2021 (86 FR 14281). The NPRM was prompted by reports of 
oil leaks during engine starting, originating from the MGB. The NPRM 
proposed to require modifying and repetitively functional testing the 
MGB EMLUB system, and if there is a discrepancy, accomplishing 
corrective action(s). Accomplishing any corrective action(s) does not 
constitute terminating action for the repetitive functional tests, as 
specified in an EASA AD.
    The FAA is issuing this AD to address inadvertent opening of the P 
2.4 valve of the MGB EMLUB system, which results from MGB 
pressurization by compressed air produced by the engine during starting 
in response to a signal from the EMLUB electronic control card. See 
EASA AD 2016-0232R1 for additional background information.

Discussion of Final Airworthiness Directive

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.

Conclusion

    The FAA reviewed the relevant data and determined that air safety 
and the public interest require adopting this final rule as proposed, 
except for minor editorial changes. The FAA has determined that these 
minor changes are consistent with the intent that was proposed in the 
NPRM for addressing the unsafe condition and do not add any additional 
burden upon the public than was already proposed in the NPRM.

Related Service Information Under 1 CFR Part 51

    EASA AD 2016-0232R1 requires modifying the electrical control 
circuit of the MGB EMLUB system. After modifying, EASA AD 2016-0232R1 
requires a repetitive functional test of the MGB EMLUB system, and if 
there is a discrepancy, accomplishing corrective action(s). 
Accomplishing any corrective action(s) does not constitute terminating 
action for the repetitive functional tests.
    This material is reasonably available because the interested 
parties have access to it through their normal course of business or by 
the means identified in the ADDRESSES section.

Differences Between This AD and the EASA AD

    Where EASA AD 2016-0232R1 refers to December 6, 2016 (the effective 
date of EASA AD 2016-0232), this AD requires using the effective date 
of this final rule. EASA AD 2016-0232R1 allows an additional interval 
margin of 225 flight hours (FH), while this AD does not. Where the 
service information referenced in EASA AD 2016-0232R1 requires 
contacting Airbus Helicopters for corrective action, this AD requires 
accomplishing the corrective action using a method approved by the

[[Page 30152]]

Manager, Strategic Policy Rotorcraft Section, FAA.

Costs of Compliance

    The FAA estimates that this AD affects 24 helicopters of U.S. 
Registry. Labor rates are estimated at $85 per work-hour. Based on 
these numbers, the FAA estimates that operators may incur the following 
costs in order to comply with this AD.
    Modifying the electrical control circuit of the MGB EMLUB system 
takes about 22 work-hours and parts cost about $1,592 for an estimated 
cost of $3,462 per helicopter and $83,088 for the U.S. fleet.
    Functional testing the EMLUB system takes about 12 work-hours for 
an estimated cost of $1,020 per helicopter and $24,480 for U.S. fleet, 
per testing cycle. If the electrical functional test results in a need 
to replace the lubrication printed circuit board, the replacement time 
takes about 2 work-hours and parts cost about $5,150 for an estimated 
cost of $5,320 per helicopter.

Authority for This Rulemaking

    Title 49 of the United States Code specifies the FAA's authority to 
issue rules on aviation safety. Subtitle I, section 106, describes the 
authority of the FAA Administrator. Subtitle VII: Aviation Programs, 
describes in more detail the scope of the Agency's authority.
    The FAA is issuing this rulemaking under the authority described in 
Subtitle VII, Part A, Subpart III, Section 44701: General requirements. 
Under that section, Congress charges the FAA with promoting safe flight 
of civil aircraft in air commerce by prescribing regulations for 
practices, methods, and procedures the Administrator finds necessary 
for safety in air commerce. This regulation is within the scope of that 
authority because it addresses an unsafe condition that is likely to 
exist or develop on products identified in this rulemaking action.

Regulatory Findings

    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.

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:

2021-11-05 Airbus Helicopters: Amendment 39-21567; Docket No. FAA-
2021-0016; Project Identifier 2019-SW-114-AD.

(a) Effective Date

    This airworthiness directive (AD) is effective July 12, 2021.

(b) Affected Airworthiness Directives

    None.

(c) Applicability

    This AD applies to all Airbus Helicopters Model EC225LP 
helicopters, certificated in any category.

(d) Subject

    Joint Aircraft System Component (JASC) Code 6397, Main Rotor 
Drive System Wiring.

(e) Reason

    This AD was prompted by reports of oil leaks during engine 
starting, originating from the main gearbox (MGB). The FAA is 
issuing this AD to address the inadvertent opening of the P 2.4 
valve of the MGB emergency lubrication (EMLUB) system, which results 
from MGB pressurization by compressed air produced by the engine 
during starting in response to a signal from the EMLUB electronic 
control card. This condition could result in loss of the MGB 
lubrication system and a reduced ability of the crew to manage 
adverse operating conditions.

(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 AD 2016-
0232R1, dated December 12, 2019 (EASA AD 2016-0232R1).

(h) Exceptions to EASA AD 2016-0232R1

    (1) Where EASA AD 2016-0232R1 refers to December 6, 2016 (the 
effective date of European Aviation Safety Agency AD 2016-0232, 
dated November 22, 2016), this AD requires using the effective date 
of this AD.
    (2) Where EASA AD 2016-0232R1 refers to flight hours (FH), this 
AD requires using hours time-in-service (TIS).
    (3) Where paragraph (2) of EASA AD 2016-0232R1 allows an 
additional interval margin of 225 FH, this AD does not. This AD 
requires accomplishing the functional tests within 600 hours TIS, 
and thereafter at intervals not to exceed 600 hours TIS.
    (4) Where the service information referenced in EASA AD 2016-
0232R1 requires contacting Airbus Helicopters technical support, 
this AD requires that the corrective action be accomplished using a 
method approved by the Manager, Strategic Policy Rotorcraft Section, 
FAA. The Manager's approval letter must specifically refer to this 
AD.
    (5) The ``Remarks'' section of EASA AD 2016-0232R1 does not 
apply to this AD.

(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 the helicopter is operated under visual flight rules and 
without passengers only.

(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 Hal Jensen, 
Aerospace Engineer, Operational Safety Branch, FAA, 950 L'Enfant 
Plaza N SW, Washington, DC 20024; telephone (202) 267-9167; 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.

[[Page 30153]]

    (i) European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) AD 2016-0232R1, 
dated December 12, 2019.
    (ii) [Reserved]
    (3) For EASA AD 2016-0232R1, 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.
    (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-
2021-0016.
    (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 May 11, 2021.
Ross Landes,
Deputy Director for Regulatory Operations, Compliance & Airworthiness 
Division, Aircraft Certification Service.
[FR Doc. 2021-11803 Filed 6-4-21; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE 4910-13-P
This site is protected by reCAPTCHA and the Google Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply.