Airworthiness Directives; Airbus Helicopters Deutschland GmbH Helicopters, 35599-35601 [2021-14343]

Download as PDF Federal Register / Vol. 86, No. 127 / Wednesday, July 7, 2021 / Rules and Regulations consumer. Moreover, proper handling of disputes not only ensures that inaccuracies in the disputing consumer’s report are resolved, it also facilitates CRA and furnisher identification of systemic problems related to their consumer reporting and furnishing practices.54 II. Compliance Guidance As pandemic-related government interventions aimed at protecting renters begin to expire, the Bureau will continue to look carefully at consumer reporting agencies’ and furnishers’ compliance with their FCRA accuracy obligations with respect to rental information. CRAs and furnishers should take immediate steps to ensure they are fulfilling their obligations under the law. If the Bureau determines that a CRA or furnisher has engaged in any acts or practices that violate the FCRA, Regulation V, or other Federal consumer financial laws, the Bureau will take appropriate enforcement action to address violations and seek all appropriate corrective measures, including remediation of harm to consumers. The Bureau plans to pay particular attention to the areas outlined below. khammond on DSKJM1Z7X2PROD with RULES For CRAs Reporting Rental Information 1. Whether CRAs are reporting accurate rental information. 2. Whether CRAs are using a sufficient number of identifiers to match consumer report information to the consumer who is the subject of the report, including whether CRAs are using name-matching procedures or limited identifiers likely to heighten the risk of inaccurate matching. 3. Whether CRAs are reporting eviction information that is inaccurate, incomplete, or misleading (such as may result from a failure to have reasonable procedures to report information about the disposition of an eviction filing, to prevent the inclusion of multiple entries for the same eviction action in the same consumer report, or to prevent the inclusion of eviction information that has been sealed or expunged). 4. Whether CRAs are complying with their obligations to investigate disputed 54 See, e.g., Fed. Trade Comm’n, 40 Years of Experience with the Fair Credit Reporting Act: An FTC Staff Report with Summary of Interpretations 67 (July 2011), https://www.ftc.gov/sites/default/ files/documents/reports/40-years-experience-faircredit-reporting-act-ftc-staff-report-summaryinterpretations/110720fcrareport.pdf (noting that ‘‘when a CRA learns or should reasonably be aware of errors in its reports that may indicate systematic problems (by virtue of information from consumers, report users, from periodic review of its reporting system, or otherwise), it must review its procedures for assuring accuracy and take any necessary steps to avoid future problems’’). VerDate Sep<11>2014 15:58 Jul 06, 2021 Jkt 253001 information in a consumer report, including whether they are conducting timely and reasonable investigations. For Furnishers Providing Rental Information 1. Whether furnishers are providing accurate rental information to CRAs. 2. Whether furnishers are providing information about rental arrearages that include amounts that were already paid on behalf of a tenant through a government grant or relief program, such as the Emergency Rental Assistance programs. 3. Whether furnishers are providing information about rental arrearages that include fees or penalties that CARES Act section 4024(b) or other laws prohibit charging. 4. Whether furnishers are complying with their obligations to investigate disputed information in a consumer report, including whether they are conducting timely and reasonable investigations. III. Conclusion The Bureau issues this Bulletin to highlight that the Bureau will hold CRAs and furnishers accountable if they do not comply with their accuracy and dispute obligations under the FCRA and Regulation V with respect to rental information. IV. Regulatory Requirements This Bulletin constitutes a general statement of policy exempt from the notice and comment rulemaking requirements of the Administrative Procedure Act.55 It summarizes existing legal requirements and articulates considerations relevant to the Bureau’s exercise of its enforcement discretion for institutions under its jurisdiction. It does not impose any legal requirements on external parties, nor does it create or confer any substantive rights on external parties that could be enforceable in any administrative or civil proceeding. Because no notice of proposed rulemaking is required in issuing this Bulletin, the Regulatory Flexibility Act also does not require an initial or final regulatory flexibility analysis.56 The Bureau has also determined that the issuance of this Bulletin does not impose any new or revise any existing recordkeeping, reporting, or disclosure requirements on covered entities or members of the public that would be collections of information requiring approval by the Office of Management PO 00000 55 5 56 5 U.S.C. 553(b). U.S.C. 603(a), 604(a). Frm 00005 Fmt 4700 Sfmt 4700 35599 and Budget under the Paperwork Reduction Act of 1995.57 Dated: July 1, 2021. David Uejio, Acting Director, Bureau of Consumer Financial Protection. [FR Doc. 2021–14459 Filed 7–6–21; 8:45 am] BILLING CODE 4810–AM–P DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION Federal Aviation Administration 14 CFR Part 39 [Docket No. FAA–2019–0293; Product Identifier 2017–SW–052–AD; Amendment 39–21610; AD 2021–13–05] RIN 2120–AA64 Airworthiness Directives; Airbus Helicopters Deutschland GmbH Helicopters Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), DOT. ACTION: Final rule. AGENCY: The FAA is adopting a new airworthiness directive (AD) for Airbus Helicopters Deutschland GmbH (Airbus Helicopters) Model EC135P1, EC135P2, EC135P2+, EC135P3, EC135T1, EC135T2, EC135T2+, and EC135T3 helicopters. This AD requires modifying the tail rotor (T/R) control installation, a functional test, and corrective actions as necessary. This AD was prompted by cases of insufficient clearance between a certain T/R control bearing connection and the helicopter structure, which were detected on the production line. The FAA is issuing this AD to address the unsafe condition on these products. DATES: This AD is effective August 11, 2021. The Director of the Federal Register approved the incorporation by reference of a certain document listed in this AD as of August 11, 2021. ADDRESSES: For service information identified in this final rule, contact Airbus Helicopters, 2701 North Forum Drive, Grand Prairie, TX 75052; telephone 972–641–0000 or 800–232– 0323; fax 972–641–3775; or at https:// www.airbus.com/helicopters/services/ technical-support.html. You may view the referenced service information at the FAA, Office of the Regional Counsel, Southwest Region, 10101 Hillwood Pkwy., Room 6N–321, Fort Worth, TX 76177. Service information that is incorporated by reference is also available at https://www.regulations.gov SUMMARY: 57 44 E:\FR\FM\07JYR1.SGM U.S.C. 3501 et seq. 07JYR1 35600 Federal Register / Vol. 86, No. 127 / Wednesday, July 7, 2021 / Rules and Regulations by searching for and locating Docket No. FAA–2019–0293. Examining the AD Docket You may examine the AD docket at https://www.regulations.gov by searching for and locating Docket No. FAA–2019–0293; 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 Aviation Safety Agency (now European Union Aviation Safety Agency) (EASA) AD, any comments received, and other information. The street address for Docket Operations is U.S. Department of Transportation, Docket Operations, M–30, West Building Ground Floor, Room W12–140, 1200 New Jersey Avenue SE, Washington, DC 20590. FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: David Hatfield, Aviation Safety Engineer, Aircraft Systems Section, Technical Innovation Policy Branch, FAA, 10101 Hillwood Pkwy., Fort Worth, TX 76177; telephone 817–222– 5110; email david.hatfield@faa.gov. SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: khammond on DSKJM1Z7X2PROD with RULES Background The FAA issued a notice of proposed rulemaking (NPRM) to amend 14 CFR part 39 by adding an AD that would apply to Airbus Helicopters Model EC135P1, EC135P2, EC135P2+, EC135P3, EC135T1, EC135T2, EC135T2+, and EC135T3 helicopters with serial number (S/N) up to and including 1254 (except S/N 1235). The NPRM published in the Federal Register on April 16, 2021 (86 FR 20089). In the NPRM, the FAA proposed to require modifying the T/R control within 360 hours time-in-service (TIS) by installing a Teflon washer and performing a functional test in accordance with specified portions of Airbus Helicopters Alert Service Bulletin ASB EC135–67A–031, Revision 0, dated March 30, 2017 (ASB EC135– 67A–031). Based on the results of the functional test, the NPRM proposed to require making repairs in accordance with FAA-approved procedures. The NPRM was prompted by EASA AD 2017–0147, dated August 10, 2017 (EASA AD 2017–0147), issued by EASA, which is the Technical Agent for the Member States of the European Union, to correct an unsafe condition for Airbus Helicopters Model EC135P1, EC135P2, EC135P2+, EC135P3, EC135T1, EC135T2, EC135T2+, EC135T3, EC635P2+, EC635P3, EC635T1, EC635T2+, and EC635T3 helicopters. EASA advises that several cases of insufficient clearance between VerDate Sep<11>2014 15:58 Jul 06, 2021 Jkt 253001 a certain T/R bearing connection and the helicopter structure were detected during inspections of helicopters on the production line. EASA states that this condition, if not corrected and in the case of an unglued bearing, could lead to blockage of the pedal controlling the T/R thrust and loss of the T/R control. EASA further advises that this could result in a forced landing with damage to the helicopter and injury to the occupants. Accordingly, EASA AD 2017–0147 requires modifying the T/R control installation by adding a Teflon washer, which reduces the degree of freedom in case of a drifting bearing at the affected connection. EASA AD 2017–0147 also requires a functional test for clearance, and depending on the results, either accomplishing additional corrective actions or contacting Airbus Helicopters for instructions. Comments The FAA received no comments on the NPRM or on the determination of the costs. Conclusion 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 reviewed the relevant data and determined that air safety requires adopting this AD as proposed. Accordingly, the FAA is issuing this AD to address the unsafe condition on these helicopters. Related Service Information Under 1 CFR Part 51 The FAA reviewed ASB EC135–67A– 031 for Airbus Helicopters Model EC135P1, EC135P2, EC135P2+, EC135P3, EC135T1, EC135T2, EC135T2+, EC135T3, EC635P2+, EC635P3, EC635T1, EC635T2+, and EC635T3 helicopters. For S/Ns up to 1254 inclusive, except S/N 1235, this service information specifies retrofitting a Teflon washer on the T/R controls, performing a functional test of the modified T/R control installation to inspect for clearance, and making any necessary adjustments. This service information advises that S/N 1255 and up will have the Teflon washer installed in production. 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. PO 00000 Frm 00006 Fmt 4700 Sfmt 4700 Differences Between This AD and the EASA AD The EASA AD sets compliance times at 12 months, while this AD requires compliance within 360 hours TIS. The EASA AD applies to Airbus Helicopters Model EC635T1, EC635T2+, EC635T3, EC635P2+, and EC635P3 helicopters; this AD does not because these models do not have an FAA type certificate. The EASA AD requires contacting Airbus Helicopters for approved repair procedures; this AD requires a repair using FAA-approved procedures. The EASA AD requires revising the ‘‘aircraft maintenance program,’’ whereas this AD does not because not all U.S. operators are required to have a maintenance program. Costs of Compliance The FAA estimates that this AD affects 331 helicopters of U.S. registry. Labor rates are estimated at $85 per work-hour. Based on these numbers, the FAA estimates the following costs to comply with this AD. Modifying the T/R control installation and conducting a functional test takes about 3 work-hours and parts cost about $25 for an estimated cost of $280 per helicopter and $92,680 for the U.S. fleet. If required, adjusting the clearance takes about 1 work-hour for an estimated cost of $85 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 helicopters 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 E:\FR\FM\07JYR1.SGM 07JYR1 Federal Register / Vol. 86, No. 127 / Wednesday, July 7, 2021 / Rules and Regulations 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 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: ■ 2021–13–05 Airbus Helicopters Deutschland GmbH: Amendment 39– 21610; Docket No. FAA–2019–0293; Product Identifier 2017–SW–052–AD. (a) Effective Date This airworthiness directive (AD) is effective August 11, 2021. (b) Affected ADs None. (c) Applicability This AD applies to Airbus Helicopters Deutschland GmbH Model EC135P1, EC135P2, EC135P2+, EC135P3, EC135T1, EC135T2, EC135T2+, and EC135T3 helicopters with serial number (S/N) up to and including 1254 (except S/N 1235), certificated in any category. khammond on DSKJM1Z7X2PROD with RULES (d) Subject Joint Aircraft Service Component (JASC) Code: 6720, Tail Rotor Control System. (e) Unsafe Condition This AD defines the unsafe condition as interference between the tail rotor (T/R) control bearing connection close-tolerance bolt and the helicopter structure, which could lead to blockage of the pedal controlling the T/R thrust. This condition could result in loss of T/R control, prompting a forced landing. VerDate Sep<11>2014 15:58 Jul 06, 2021 Jkt 253001 (f) Compliance Comply with this AD within the compliance times specified, unless already done. (g) Required Actions Within 360 hours time-in-service, modify the T/R control by installing a Teflon washer and perform a functional test of the modification in accordance with the Accomplishment Instructions, paragraphs 3.B.2 through 3.B.4.2., of Airbus Helicopters Alert Service Bulletin ASB EC135–67A–031, Revision 0, dated March 30, 2017. If, during the functional test, the clearance between the end of the close-tolerance bolt, castellated nut, and the lower stringer is less than 1.0 mm, repair in accordance with FAAapproved procedures. (h) 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 (i)(1) 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. (i) Related Information (1) For more information about this AD, contact David Hatfield, Aviation Safety Engineer, Aircraft Systems Section, Technical Innovation Policy Branch, FAA, 10101 Hillwood Pkwy., Fort Worth, TX 76177; telephone 817–222–5110; email david.hatfield@faa.gov. (2) The subject of this AD is addressed in European Aviation Safety Agency (now European Union Aviation Safety Agency) (EASA) AD 2017–0147, dated August 10, 2017. You may view the EASA AD at https:// www.regulations.gov in Docket No. FAA– 2019–0293. (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. (i) Airbus Helicopters Alert Service Bulletin ASB EC135–67A–031, Revision 0, dated March 30, 2017. (ii) [Reserved] (3) For Airbus Helicopters service information identified in this AD, contact Airbus Helicopters, 2701 North 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. PO 00000 Frm 00007 Fmt 4700 Sfmt 4700 35601 (4) You may view this service information at the FAA, Office of the Regional Counsel, Southwest Region, 10101 Hillwood Pkwy., Room 6N–321, Fort Worth, TX 76177. For information on the availability of this material at the FAA, call (817) 222–5110. (5) You may view this service information that is incorporated by reference at the National Archives and Records Administration (NARA). For information on the availability of this material at NARA, email: fedreg.legal@nara.gov, or go to: https://www.archives.gov/federal-register/cfr/ ibr-locations.html. Issued on June 10, 2021. Lance T. Gant, Director, Compliance & Airworthiness Division, Aircraft Certification Service. [FR Doc. 2021–14343 Filed 7–6–21; 8:45 am] BILLING CODE 4910–13–P DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION Federal Aviation Administration 14 CFR Part 39 [Docket No. FAA–2021–0333; Project Identifier MCAI–2020–00252–R; Amendment 39–21609; AD 2021–13–04] 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 certain Airbus Helicopters Model AS332C, AS332C1, AS332L, and AS332L1 helicopters. This AD was prompted by a report of a yaw control failure that was the result of the disconnection of the tail rotor hub (TRH) pitch control rod from the tail rotor servo-control, which resulted from a seized TRH bearing. The TRH bearing had grease dissolving after contamination by leaked hydraulic fluid from the tail rotor servo-control that came through the TRH assembly boot. This AD requires repetitive inspections for hydraulic leaks, corrective actions if necessary, and an optional modification which constitutes terminating action, as specified in a European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) AD, which is incorporated by reference. The FAA is issuing this AD to address the unsafe condition on these products. DATES: This AD is effective August 11, 2021. The Director of the Federal Register approved the incorporation by reference of a certain publication listed in this AD as of August 11, 2021. ADDRESSES: For material incorporated by reference (IBR) in this AD, contact SUMMARY: E:\FR\FM\07JYR1.SGM 07JYR1

Agencies

[Federal Register Volume 86, Number 127 (Wednesday, July 7, 2021)]
[Rules and Regulations]
[Pages 35599-35601]
From the Federal Register Online via the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]
[FR Doc No: 2021-14343]


=======================================================================
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DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION

Federal Aviation Administration

14 CFR Part 39

[Docket No. FAA-2019-0293; Product Identifier 2017-SW-052-AD; Amendment 
39-21610; AD 2021-13-05]
RIN 2120-AA64


Airworthiness Directives; Airbus Helicopters Deutschland GmbH 
Helicopters

AGENCY: Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), DOT.

ACTION: Final rule.

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

SUMMARY: The FAA is adopting a new airworthiness directive (AD) for 
Airbus Helicopters Deutschland GmbH (Airbus Helicopters) Model EC135P1, 
EC135P2, EC135P2+, EC135P3, EC135T1, EC135T2, EC135T2+, and EC135T3 
helicopters. This AD requires modifying the tail rotor (T/R) control 
installation, a functional test, and corrective actions as necessary. 
This AD was prompted by cases of insufficient clearance between a 
certain T/R control bearing connection and the helicopter structure, 
which were detected on the production line. The FAA is issuing this AD 
to address the unsafe condition on these products.

DATES: This AD is effective August 11, 2021.
    The Director of the Federal Register approved the incorporation by 
reference of a certain document listed in this AD as of August 11, 
2021.

ADDRESSES: For service information identified in this final rule, 
contact Airbus Helicopters, 2701 North Forum Drive, Grand Prairie, TX 
75052; telephone 972-641-0000 or 800-232-0323; fax 972-641-3775; or at 
https://www.airbus.com/helicopters/services/technical-support.html. You 
may view the referenced service information at the FAA, Office of the 
Regional Counsel, Southwest Region, 10101 Hillwood Pkwy., Room 6N-321, 
Fort Worth, TX 76177. Service information that is incorporated by 
reference is also available at https://www.regulations.gov

[[Page 35600]]

by searching for and locating Docket No. FAA-2019-0293.

Examining the AD Docket

    You may examine the AD docket at https://www.regulations.gov by 
searching for and locating Docket No. FAA-2019-0293; 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 Aviation Safety Agency (now European Union Aviation Safety 
Agency) (EASA) AD, any comments received, and other information. The 
street address for Docket Operations is U.S. Department of 
Transportation, Docket Operations, M-30, West Building Ground Floor, 
Room W12-140, 1200 New Jersey Avenue SE, Washington, DC 20590.

FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: David Hatfield, Aviation Safety 
Engineer, Aircraft Systems Section, Technical Innovation Policy Branch, 
FAA, 10101 Hillwood Pkwy., Fort Worth, TX 76177; telephone 817-222-
5110; email [email protected].

SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION:

Background

    The FAA issued a notice of proposed rulemaking (NPRM) to amend 14 
CFR part 39 by adding an AD that would apply to Airbus Helicopters 
Model EC135P1, EC135P2, EC135P2+, EC135P3, EC135T1, EC135T2, EC135T2+, 
and EC135T3 helicopters with serial number (S/N) up to and including 
1254 (except S/N 1235). The NPRM published in the Federal Register on 
April 16, 2021 (86 FR 20089). In the NPRM, the FAA proposed to require 
modifying the T/R control within 360 hours time-in-service (TIS) by 
installing a Teflon washer and performing a functional test in 
accordance with specified portions of Airbus Helicopters Alert Service 
Bulletin ASB EC135-67A-031, Revision 0, dated March 30, 2017 (ASB 
EC135-67A-031). Based on the results of the functional test, the NPRM 
proposed to require making repairs in accordance with FAA-approved 
procedures. The NPRM was prompted by EASA AD 2017-0147, dated August 
10, 2017 (EASA AD 2017-0147), issued by EASA, which is the Technical 
Agent for the Member States of the European Union, to correct an unsafe 
condition for Airbus Helicopters Model EC135P1, EC135P2, EC135P2+, 
EC135P3, EC135T1, EC135T2, EC135T2+, EC135T3, EC635P2+, EC635P3, 
EC635T1, EC635T2+, and EC635T3 helicopters. EASA advises that several 
cases of insufficient clearance between a certain T/R bearing 
connection and the helicopter structure were detected during 
inspections of helicopters on the production line. EASA states that 
this condition, if not corrected and in the case of an unglued bearing, 
could lead to blockage of the pedal controlling the T/R thrust and loss 
of the T/R control. EASA further advises that this could result in a 
forced landing with damage to the helicopter and injury to the 
occupants.
    Accordingly, EASA AD 2017-0147 requires modifying the T/R control 
installation by adding a Teflon washer, which reduces the degree of 
freedom in case of a drifting bearing at the affected connection. EASA 
AD 2017-0147 also requires a functional test for clearance, and 
depending on the results, either accomplishing additional corrective 
actions or contacting Airbus Helicopters for instructions.

Comments

    The FAA received no comments on the NPRM or on the determination of 
the costs.

Conclusion

    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 reviewed the relevant 
data and determined that air safety requires adopting this AD as 
proposed. Accordingly, the FAA is issuing this AD to address the unsafe 
condition on these helicopters.

Related Service Information Under 1 CFR Part 51

    The FAA reviewed ASB EC135-67A-031 for Airbus Helicopters Model 
EC135P1, EC135P2, EC135P2+, EC135P3, EC135T1, EC135T2, EC135T2+, 
EC135T3, EC635P2+, EC635P3, EC635T1, EC635T2+, and EC635T3 helicopters. 
For S/Ns up to 1254 inclusive, except S/N 1235, this service 
information specifies retrofitting a Teflon washer on the T/R controls, 
performing a functional test of the modified T/R control installation 
to inspect for clearance, and making any necessary adjustments. This 
service information advises that S/N 1255 and up will have the Teflon 
washer installed in production.
    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.

Differences Between This AD and the EASA AD

    The EASA AD sets compliance times at 12 months, while this AD 
requires compliance within 360 hours TIS. The EASA AD applies to Airbus 
Helicopters Model EC635T1, EC635T2+, EC635T3, EC635P2+, and EC635P3 
helicopters; this AD does not because these models do not have an FAA 
type certificate. The EASA AD requires contacting Airbus Helicopters 
for approved repair procedures; this AD requires a repair using FAA-
approved procedures. The EASA AD requires revising the ``aircraft 
maintenance program,'' whereas this AD does not because not all U.S. 
operators are required to have a maintenance program.

Costs of Compliance

    The FAA estimates that this AD affects 331 helicopters of U.S. 
registry. Labor rates are estimated at $85 per work-hour. Based on 
these numbers, the FAA estimates the following costs to comply with 
this AD.
    Modifying the T/R control installation and conducting a functional 
test takes about 3 work-hours and parts cost about $25 for an estimated 
cost of $280 per helicopter and $92,680 for the U.S. fleet.
    If required, adjusting the clearance takes about 1 work-hour for an 
estimated cost of $85 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 helicopters 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

[[Page 35601]]

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:

2021-13-05 Airbus Helicopters Deutschland GmbH: Amendment 39-21610; 
Docket No. FAA-2019-0293; Product Identifier 2017-SW-052-AD.

(a) Effective Date

    This airworthiness directive (AD) is effective August 11, 2021.

(b) Affected ADs

    None.

(c) Applicability

    This AD applies to Airbus Helicopters Deutschland GmbH Model 
EC135P1, EC135P2, EC135P2+, EC135P3, EC135T1, EC135T2, EC135T2+, and 
EC135T3 helicopters with serial number (S/N) up to and including 
1254 (except S/N 1235), certificated in any category.

(d) Subject

    Joint Aircraft Service Component (JASC) Code: 6720, Tail Rotor 
Control System.

(e) Unsafe Condition

    This AD defines the unsafe condition as interference between the 
tail rotor (T/R) control bearing connection close-tolerance bolt and 
the helicopter structure, which could lead to blockage of the pedal 
controlling the T/R thrust. This condition could result in loss of 
T/R control, prompting a forced landing.

(f) Compliance

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

(g) Required Actions

    Within 360 hours time-in-service, modify the T/R control by 
installing a Teflon washer and perform a functional test of the 
modification in accordance with the Accomplishment Instructions, 
paragraphs 3.B.2 through 3.B.4.2., of Airbus Helicopters Alert 
Service Bulletin ASB EC135-67A-031, Revision 0, dated March 30, 
2017. If, during the functional test, the clearance between the end 
of the close[hyphen]tolerance bolt, castellated nut, and the lower 
stringer is less than 1.0 mm, repair in accordance with FAA-approved 
procedures.

(h) 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 (i)(1) 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.

(i) Related Information

    (1) For more information about this AD, contact David Hatfield, 
Aviation Safety Engineer, Aircraft Systems Section, Technical 
Innovation Policy Branch, FAA, 10101 Hillwood Pkwy., Fort Worth, TX 
76177; telephone 817-222-5110; email [email protected].
    (2) The subject of this AD is addressed in European Aviation 
Safety Agency (now European Union Aviation Safety Agency) (EASA) AD 
2017-0147, dated August 10, 2017. You may view the EASA AD at 
https://www.regulations.gov in Docket No. FAA-2019-0293.

(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.
    (i) Airbus Helicopters Alert Service Bulletin ASB EC135-67A-031, 
Revision 0, dated March 30, 2017.
    (ii) [Reserved]
    (3) For Airbus Helicopters service information identified in 
this AD, contact Airbus Helicopters, 2701 North Forum Drive, Grand 
Prairie, TX 75052; telephone 972-641-0000 or 800-232-0323; fax 972-
641-3775; or at https://www.airbus.com/helicopters/services/technical-support.html.
    (4) You may view this service information at the FAA, Office of 
the Regional Counsel, Southwest Region, 10101 Hillwood Pkwy., Room 
6N-321, Fort Worth, TX 76177. For information on the availability of 
this material at the FAA, call (817) 222-5110.
    (5) You may view this service information that is incorporated 
by reference at the National Archives and Records Administration 
(NARA). For information on the availability of this material at 
NARA, email: [email protected], or go to: https://www.archives.gov/federal-register/cfr/ibr-locations.html.

    Issued on June 10, 2021.
Lance T. Gant,
Director, Compliance & Airworthiness Division, Aircraft Certification 
Service.
[FR Doc. 2021-14343 Filed 7-6-21; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE 4910-13-P
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