Airworthiness Directives; Hélicoptères Guimbal Helicopters, 38943-38946 [2021-15475]

Download as PDF Federal Register / Vol. 86, No. 139 / Friday, July 23, 2021 / Proposed Rules List of Subjects in 14 CFR Part 39 Air transportation, Aircraft, Aviation safety, Incorporation by reference, Safety. The Proposed Amendment Accordingly, under the authority delegated to me by the Administrator, the FAA proposes to amend 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: a. Removing Airworthiness Directive AD 2021–05–16, Amendment 39–21459 (86 FR 17287, April 2, 2021); and ■ b. Adding the following new airworthiness directive: ■ ■ Pratt & Whitney Division: Docket No. FAA– 2021–0577; Project Identifier AD–2021– 00470–E. (a) Comments Due Date The FAA must receive comments on this airworthiness directive (AD) action by September 7, 2021. (b) Affected ADs This AD replaces AD 2021–05–16, Amendment 39–21459 (86 FR 17287, April 2, 2021). (c) Applicability This AD applies to Pratt & Whitney Division (PW) PW4164, PW4164–1D, PW4168, PW4168–1D, PW4168A, PW4168A– 1D, and PW4170 model turbofan engines with low-pressure turbine (LPT) 4th-stage air sealing ring segment assemblies, part number (P/N) 50N463–01, P/N 50N526–01, or FAAapproved equivalent part numbers, installed. khammond on DSKJM1Z7X2PROD with PROPOSALS (d) Subject Joint Aircraft System Component (JASC) Code 7250, Turbine Section. (e) Unsafe Condition This AD was prompted by several reports from the manufacturer concerning LPT 4thstage vane cluster assemblies leaning back and notching into the rotating LPT 4th-stage blades, causing some blades to fracture and release. A manufacturer investigation into those reports determined that the leaning back of the LPT 4th-stage vane cluster assemblies was caused by damage to the LPT 4th-stage air sealing ring segment assemblies. The FAA is issuing this AD to prevent damage to the LPT 4th-stage air sealing ring segment assemblies, the LPT case, and the LPT 4th-stage blades. The unsafe condition, if not addressed, could result in uncontained release of the LPT 4th-stage blades, damage to the engine, and damage to the airplane. VerDate Sep<11>2014 16:27 Jul 22, 2021 Jkt 253001 (f) Compliance Comply with this AD within the compliance times specified, unless already done. (g) Required Actions (1) For affected engines that have either the Talon IIA outer combustion chamber assembly, P/N 51J100 or P/N 51J382, or the Talon IIB outer combustion chamber assembly, P/N 51J381 or P/N 51J500, installed, at the next engine shop visit after the effective date of this AD, remove from service the LPT 4th-stage air sealing ring segment assemblies, P/N 50N463–01, P/N 50N526–01, or FAA-approved equivalent part numbers, and replace with parts eligible for installation. (2) For affected engines not referenced in paragraph (g)(1) of this AD, at the next LPT overhaul after the effective date of this AD, remove from service the LPT 4th-stage air sealing ring segment assemblies, P/N 50N463–01, P/N 50N526–01, or FAAapproved equivalent part numbers, and replace with parts eligible for installation. (3) For all affected engines, at each LPT overhaul after compliance with the required actions in paragraphs (g)(1) or (2) of this AD, remove from service the LPT 4th-stage air sealing ring segment assemblies, P/N 50N526–01 or FAA-approved equivalent part numbers, and replace with parts eligible for installation. (4) During each replacement of the LPT 4th-stage air sealing ring segment assemblies required by paragraphs (g)(1) through (3) of this AD, perform a dimensional inspection of the LPT case for bulging in accordance with the Accomplishment Instructions, paragraph 2, of PW Alert Service Bulletin No. PW4G– 100–A72–262 Revision No. 1, dated September 3, 2020 (the ASB). (5) If, during the dimensional inspection of the LPT case required by paragraph (g)(4) of this AD, any LPT case found to be outside the serviceable limits specified in Table 1: Serviceable Limits and Repairs of the ASB, repair or replace the LPT case before further flight. (h) Definitions For the purpose of this AD: (1) An ‘‘engine shop visit’’ is the induction of an engine into the shop for maintenance involving the separation of pairs of major mating engine flanges H through P. The separation of engine flanges solely for the purpose of transportation without subsequent engine maintenance does not constitute an engine shop visit. (2) An ‘‘LPT overhaul’’ is when the LPT rotor is removed from the engine, all four disks are removed from the LPT rotor, and all blades are removed from the disks. (3) ‘‘Parts eligible for installation’’ are LPT 4th-stage air sealing ring segment assemblies, P/N 50N526–01, or FAA-approved equivalent part numbers, with zero flight cycles since new or with a P/N not mentioned in this AD. (i) Credit for Previous Actions You may take credit for the dimensional inspection of the LPT case for bulging required by paragraph (g)(4) of this AD if the inspection was performed before the effective PO 00000 Frm 00003 Fmt 4702 Sfmt 4702 38943 date of this AD using PW ASB No. PW4G– 100–A72–262 Original Issue, dated October 22, 2019. (j) 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: 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. (k) Related Information (1) For more information about this AD, contact Carol Nguyen, Aviation Safety Engineer, ECO Branch, FAA, 1200 District Avenue, Burlington, MA 01803; phone: (781) 238–7655; fax: (781) 238–7199; email: carol.nguyen@faa.gov. (2) For service information identified in this AD, contact Pratt & Whitney, 400 Main Street, East Hartford, CT 06118; phone: (800) 565–0140; email: help24@prattwhitney.com; website: https://prattwhitney.com. You may view this referenced 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. Issued on July 16, 2021. Lance T. Gant, Director, Compliance & Airworthiness Division, Aircraft Certification Service. [FR Doc. 2021–15518 Filed 7–22–21; 8:45 am] BILLING CODE 4910–13–P DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION Federal Aviation Administration 14 CFR Part 39 [Docket No. FAA–2021–0574; Project Identifier 2019–SW–073–AD] RIN 2120–AA64 Airworthiness Directives; He´licopte`res Guimbal Helicopters Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), DOT. ACTION: Notice of proposed rulemaking (NPRM). AGENCY: The FAA proposes to adopt a new airworthiness directive (AD) for certain He´licopte`res Guimbal Model CABRI G2 helicopters. This proposed AD was prompted by a report that, SUMMARY: E:\FR\FM\23JYP1.SGM 23JYP1 38944 Federal Register / Vol. 86, No. 139 / Friday, July 23, 2021 / Proposed Rules khammond on DSKJM1Z7X2PROD with PROPOSALS during scheduled maintenance on two helicopters, cracks were found on a certain main rotor (MR) non-rotating scissor link. This proposed AD would require replacing an affected MR nonrotating scissor link with a serviceable part. The FAA is proposing this AD to address the unsafe condition on these products. DATES: The FAA must receive comments on this proposed AD by August 23, 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 NPRM, contact He´licopte`res Guimbal, 1070, rue du Lieutenant Parayre, Ae´rodrome d’Aix-en-Provence, 13290 Les Milles, France; telephone 33–04–42–39–10–88; email support@ guimbal.com; or at https:// www.guimbal.com. 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–2021–0574. Examining the AD Docket You may examine the AD docket at https://www.regulations.gov by searching for and locating Docket No. FAA–2021–0574; 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 NPRM, 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: Darren Gassetto, Aerospace Engineer, COS Program Management Section, Operational Safety Branch, Compliance & Airworthiness Division, FAA, 1600 Stewart Ave., Suite 410, Westbury, NY VerDate Sep<11>2014 16:27 Jul 22, 2021 Jkt 253001 11590; telephone (516) 228–7323; email Darren.Gassetto@faa.gov. SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: Comments Invited The FAA invites you to send any written data, views, or arguments about this proposal. Send your comments to an address listed under ADDRESSES. Include ‘‘Docket No. FAA–2021–0574; Project Identifier 2019–SW–073–AD’’ at the beginning of your comments. The most helpful comments reference a specific portion of the proposal, 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 proposal 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 NPRM. 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 NPRM contain commercial or financial information that is customarily treated as private, that you actually treat as private, and that is relevant or responsive to this NPRM, 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 Darren Gassetto, Aerospace Engineer, COS Program Management Section, Operational Safety Branch, Compliance & Airworthiness Division, FAA, 1600 Stewart Ave., Suite 410, Westbury, NY 11590; telephone (516) 228–7323; email Darren.Gassetto@ faa.gov. Any commentary that the FAA receives which is not specifically designated as CBI will be placed in the public docket for this rulemaking. Background EASA, which is the Technical Agent for the Member States of the European Union, has issued EASA AD 2019–0186, PO 00000 Frm 00004 Fmt 4702 Sfmt 4702 dated July 30, 2019 (EASA AD 2019– 0186), to correct an unsafe condition for He´licopte`res Guimbal Model CABRI G2 helicopters, all manufacturer serial numbers. EASA advises that, during scheduled maintenance on two helicopters, cracks were found on the MR non-rotating scissor link, part number (P/N) G41–10–200. The suspected root cause for the cracking is corrosion due to stress induced by the mounting of the metal bushings inside the lug hole. To address this issue the manufacturer modified the design of the MR non-rotating scissor link to reinforce the lugs and replace the metal bushings with plastic bushings. Cracking of a MR non-rotating scissor link, if not addressed, could result in failure of that scissor link, resulting in reduced control of the helicopter. Accordingly, EASA AD 2019–0186 requires replacement of affected MR non-rotating scissor links with serviceable parts. 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 the same type design. Related Service Information Under 1 CFR Part 51 The FAA reviewed Guimbal Service Bulletin SB 15–015, Revision C, dated August 27, 2019. This service information specifies procedures for, among other actions, modifying the helicopter by replacing the MR nonrotating scissor link, P/N G41–10–200, with a serviceable part, P/N G41–10– 201 (by installing scissor link assembly, P/N G41–12–100, which includes MR non-rotating scissor link, P/N G41–10– 201) and torqueing the bolts. 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. Other Related Service Information The FAA also reviewed Guimbal Service Bulletin SB 15–015, Revision A, dated July 20, 2015 (SB 15–015, Revision A); and SB 15–015, Revision B, dated July 12, 2019 (SB 15–015, Revision B). SB 15–015, Revision A, describes procedures for replacing a MR E:\FR\FM\23JYP1.SGM 23JYP1 38945 Federal Register / Vol. 86, No. 139 / Friday, July 23, 2021 / Proposed Rules non-rotating scissor link, P/N G41–10– 200, with P/N G41–12–100, which has a new, improved design. Service Bulletin SB 15–015, Revision B, describes the same procedures as SB 15–015, Revision A, and includes a revised compliance time, an updated Situation section, and added an action. Proposed AD Requirements in This NPRM This proposed AD would require accomplishing the actions specified in the service information already described. Costs of Compliance The FAA estimates that this AD, if adopted as proposed, would affect 32 helicopters of U.S. registry. The FAA estimates the following costs to comply with this proposed AD: ESTIMATED COSTS FOR REQUIRED ACTIONS Action Labor cost Replacement ................................................... 1 work-hour × $85 per hour = $85 ................. 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 PROPOSALS Regulatory Findings This FAA determined that this proposed AD would not have federalism implications under Executive Order 13132. This proposed AD would 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, I certify that this proposed regulation: (1) Is not a ‘‘significant regulatory action’’ under Executive Order 12866, and (2) Would not affect intrastate aviation in Alaska. (3) Would not have a significant economic impact, positive or negative, on a substantial number of small entities under the criteria of the Regulatory Flexibility Act. VerDate Sep<11>2014 16:27 Jul 22, 2021 Jkt 253001 Parts cost Cost per product $323 List of Subjects in 14 CFR Part 39 Air transportation, Aircraft, Aviation safety, Incorporation by reference, Safety. (f) Compliance The Proposed Amendment Accordingly, under the authority delegated to me by the Administrator, the FAA proposes to amend 14 CFR part 39 as follows: (g) Required Actions 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: ■ He´licopte`res Guimbal: Docket No. FAA– 2021–0574; Project Identifier 2019–SW– 073–AD. (a) Comments Due Date The FAA must receive comments on this airworthiness directive (AD) by August 23, 2021. (c) Applicability This AD applies to He´licopte`res Guimbal Model CABRI G2 helicopters, certificated in any category, with main rotor (MR) nonrotating scissor links, part number (P/N) G41–10–200 installed. (d) Subject Joint Aircraft Service Component (JASC) Code: 6700, Rotorcraft Flight Control. (e) Unsafe Condition This AD was prompted by a report that during scheduled maintenance on two helicopters, cracks were found on the MR non-rotating scissor link with part number (P/N) G41–10–200. The FAA is issuing this AD to address cracking of a MR non-rotating scissor link. Cracking of a MR non-rotating scissor link, if not addressed, could result in failure of that scissor link, resulting in reduced control of the helicopter. Frm 00005 Fmt 4702 $13,056 Comply with this AD within the compliance times specified, unless already done. (1) Within 50 hours time-in-service or 2 months after the effective date of this AD, whichever occurs first, modify the helicopter by replacing the MR non-rotating scissor link, P/N G41–10–200, with a serviceable scissor link assembly, P/N G41–12–100, in accordance with the Required Actions, IPC 4.1–2 (a) through (d) inclusive, of Guimbal Service Bulletin SB 15–015, Revision C, dated August 27, 2019. (2) As of the effective date of this AD, do not install a MR non-rotating scissor link, P/ N G41–10–200, on any helicopter. (h) Credit for Previous Actions This paragraph provides credit for actions required by paragraph (g)(1) of this AD, if those actions were performed before the effective date of this AD using the service information specified in paragraph (h)(1) or (2) of this AD. (1) Guimbal Service Bulletin SB 15–015, Revision A, dated July 20, 2015. (2) Guimbal Service Bulletin SB 15–015, Revision B, dated July 12, 2019. (i) Special Flight Permits (b) Affected ADs None. PO 00000 $408 Cost on U.S. operators Sfmt 4702 Special flight permits, as described in 14 CFR 21.197 and 21.199, are prohibited. (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)(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. E:\FR\FM\23JYP1.SGM 23JYP1 38946 Federal Register / Vol. 86, No. 139 / Friday, July 23, 2021 / Proposed Rules (k) Related Information (1) For more information about this AD, contact Darren Gassetto, Aerospace Engineer, COS Program Management Section, Operational Safety Branch, Compliance & Airworthiness Division, FAA, 1600 Stewart Ave., Suite 410, Westbury, NY 11590; telephone (516) 228–7323; email Darren.Gassetto@faa.gov. (2) For service information identified in this AD, contact He´licopte`res Guimbal, 1070, rue du Lieutenant Parayre, Ae´rodrome d’Aixen-Provence, 13290 Les Milles, France; telephone 33–04–42–39–10–88; email support@guimbal.com; or at https:// www.guimbal.com. You may view this referenced service information at the FAA, Office of the Regional Counsel, Southwest Region, 10101 Hillwood Pkwy., Room 6N– 321, Fort Worth, TX 76177. For information on the availability of this material at the FAA, call (817) 222–5110. (3) The subject of this AD is addressed in European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) AD 2019–0186, dated July 30, 2019. You may view the EASA AD at https:// www.regulations.gov in Docket No. FAA– 2021–0574. Issued on July 14, 2021. Lance T. Gant, Director, Compliance & Airworthiness Division, Aircraft Certification Service. [FR Doc. 2021–15475 Filed 7–22–21; 8:45 am] BILLING CODE 4910–13–P DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION Federal Aviation Administration 14 CFR Part 39 [Docket No. FAA–2021–0575; Project Identifier MCAI–2020–00545–R] RIN 2120–AA64 Airworthiness Directives; Bell Textron Canada Limited (Type Certificate Previously Held by Bell Helicopter Textron Canada Limited) Helicopters Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), DOT. ACTION: Notice of proposed rulemaking (NPRM). AGENCY: The FAA proposes to adopt a new airworthiness directive (AD) for certain Bell Textron Canada Limited (type certificate previously held by Bell Helicopter Textron Canada Limited) (Bell) Model 429 helicopters. This proposed AD was prompted by reports of incorrectly staked spherical bearings in the directional control bellcrank assembly. This proposed AD would require a one-time inspection of the lower surface of the spherical bearing in the directional control bellcrank assembly to determine if it is properly staked and, depending on the findings, applicable corrective actions. For khammond on DSKJM1Z7X2PROD with PROPOSALS SUMMARY: VerDate Sep<11>2014 16:27 Jul 22, 2021 Jkt 253001 certain helicopters, this proposed AD would also require repetitive inspections and, depending on the findings, applicable corrective actions. This proposed AD would also provide a terminating action for the repetitive inspections. The FAA is proposing this AD to address the unsafe condition on these products. The FAA must receive comments on this proposed AD September 7, 2021. DATES: 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 between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m., Monday through Friday, except Federal holidays. For service information identified in this NPRM, contact Bell Textron Canada Limited, 12,800 Rue de l’Avenir, Mirabel, Quebec J7J 1R4, Canada; telephone 1–450–437–2862 or 1–800– 363–8023; fax 1–450–433–0272; email productsupport@bellflight.com; or at https://www.bellflight.com/support/ contact-support. 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. ADDRESSES: Examining the AD Docket You may examine the AD docket at https://www.regulations.gov by searching for and locating Docket No. FAA–2021–0575; 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 NPRM, the Transport Canada 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., Suite 410, Westbury, NY 11590; telephone (516) 228–7330; email andrea.jimenez@faa.gov. SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: PO 00000 Frm 00006 Fmt 4702 Sfmt 4702 Comments Invited The FAA invites you to send any written relevant data, views, or arguments about this proposal. Send your comments to an address listed under ADDRESSES. Include ‘‘Docket No. FAA–2021–0575; Project Identifier MCAI–2020–00545–R’’ at the beginning of your comments. The most helpful comments reference a specific portion of the proposal, 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 proposal 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 NPRM. 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 NPRM contain commercial or financial information that is customarily treated as private, that you actually treat as private, and that is relevant or responsive to this NPRM, 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 NPRM. Submissions containing CBI should be sent to Andrea Jimenez, Aerospace Engineer, COS Program Management Section, Operational Safety Branch, Compliance & Airworthiness Division, FAA, 1600 Stewart Ave., Suite 410, Westbury, NY 11590; telephone (516) 228–7330; email andrea.jimenez@faa.gov. Any commentary that the FAA receives which is not specifically designated as CBI will be placed in the public docket for this rulemaking. Background Transport Canada, which is the aviation authority for Canada, has issued Canadian AD CF–2020–11, dated April 16, 2020 (Transport Canada AD CF–2020–11), to correct an unsafe E:\FR\FM\23JYP1.SGM 23JYP1

Agencies

[Federal Register Volume 86, Number 139 (Friday, July 23, 2021)]
[Proposed Rules]
[Pages 38943-38946]
From the Federal Register Online via the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]
[FR Doc No: 2021-15475]


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

DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION

Federal Aviation Administration

14 CFR Part 39

[Docket No. FAA-2021-0574; Project Identifier 2019-SW-073-AD]
RIN 2120-AA64


Airworthiness Directives; H[eacute]licopt[egrave]res Guimbal 
Helicopters

AGENCY: Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), DOT.

ACTION: Notice of proposed rulemaking (NPRM).

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

SUMMARY: The FAA proposes to adopt a new airworthiness directive (AD) 
for certain H[eacute]licopt[egrave]res Guimbal Model CABRI G2 
helicopters. This proposed AD was prompted by a report that,

[[Page 38944]]

during scheduled maintenance on two helicopters, cracks were found on a 
certain main rotor (MR) non-rotating scissor link. This proposed AD 
would require replacing an affected MR non-rotating scissor link with a 
serviceable part. The FAA is proposing this AD to address the unsafe 
condition on these products.

DATES: The FAA must receive comments on this proposed AD by August 23, 
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 NPRM, contact 
H[eacute]licopt[egrave]res Guimbal, 1070, rue du Lieutenant Parayre, 
A[eacute]rodrome d'Aix-en-Provence, 13290 Les Milles, France; telephone 
33-04-42-39-10-88; email [email protected]; or at https://www.guimbal.com. 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-
0574.

Examining the AD Docket

    You may examine the AD docket at https://www.regulations.gov by 
searching for and locating Docket No. FAA-2021-0574; 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 NPRM, 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: Darren Gassetto, Aerospace Engineer, 
COS Program Management Section, Operational Safety Branch, Compliance & 
Airworthiness Division, FAA, 1600 Stewart Ave., Suite 410, Westbury, NY 
11590; telephone (516) 228-7323; email [email protected].

SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION:

Comments Invited

    The FAA invites you to send any written data, views, or arguments 
about this proposal. Send your comments to an address listed under 
ADDRESSES. Include ``Docket No. FAA-2021-0574; Project Identifier 2019-
SW-073-AD'' at the beginning of your comments. The most helpful 
comments reference a specific portion of the proposal, 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 proposal 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 NPRM.

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 NPRM contain commercial 
or financial information that is customarily treated as private, that 
you actually treat as private, and that is relevant or responsive to 
this NPRM, 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 Darren 
Gassetto, Aerospace Engineer, COS Program Management Section, 
Operational Safety Branch, Compliance & Airworthiness Division, FAA, 
1600 Stewart Ave., Suite 410, Westbury, NY 11590; telephone (516) 228-
7323; email [email protected]. Any commentary that the FAA 
receives which is not specifically designated as CBI will be placed in 
the public docket for this rulemaking.

Background

    EASA, which is the Technical Agent for the Member States of the 
European Union, has issued EASA AD 2019-0186, dated July 30, 2019 (EASA 
AD 2019-0186), to correct an unsafe condition for 
H[eacute]licopt[egrave]res Guimbal Model CABRI G2 helicopters, all 
manufacturer serial numbers. EASA advises that, during scheduled 
maintenance on two helicopters, cracks were found on the MR non-
rotating scissor link, part number (P/N) G41-10-200. The suspected root 
cause for the cracking is corrosion due to stress induced by the 
mounting of the metal bushings inside the lug hole. To address this 
issue the manufacturer modified the design of the MR non-rotating 
scissor link to reinforce the lugs and replace the metal bushings with 
plastic bushings. Cracking of a MR non-rotating scissor link, if not 
addressed, could result in failure of that scissor link, resulting in 
reduced control of the helicopter.
    Accordingly, EASA AD 2019-0186 requires replacement of affected MR 
non-rotating scissor links with serviceable parts.

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 the same type design.

Related Service Information Under 1 CFR Part 51

    The FAA reviewed Guimbal Service Bulletin SB 15-015, Revision C, 
dated August 27, 2019. This service information specifies procedures 
for, among other actions, modifying the helicopter by replacing the MR 
non-rotating scissor link, P/N G41-10-200, with a serviceable part, P/N 
G41-10-201 (by installing scissor link assembly, P/N G41-12-100, which 
includes MR non-rotating scissor link, P/N G41-10-201) and torqueing 
the bolts. 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.

Other Related Service Information

    The FAA also reviewed Guimbal Service Bulletin SB 15-015, Revision 
A, dated July 20, 2015 (SB 15-015, Revision A); and SB 15-015, Revision 
B, dated July 12, 2019 (SB 15-015, Revision B). SB 15-015, Revision A, 
describes procedures for replacing a MR

[[Page 38945]]

non-rotating scissor link, P/N G41-10-200, with P/N G41-12-100, which 
has a new, improved design. Service Bulletin SB 15-015, Revision B, 
describes the same procedures as SB 15-015, Revision A, and includes a 
revised compliance time, an updated Situation section, and added an 
action.

Proposed AD Requirements in This NPRM

    This proposed AD would require accomplishing the actions specified 
in the service information already described.

Costs of Compliance

    The FAA estimates that this AD, if adopted as proposed, would 
affect 32 helicopters of U.S. registry. The FAA estimates the following 
costs to comply with this proposed AD:

                                      Estimated Costs for Required Actions
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                                     Cost per      Cost on U.S.
                Action                         Labor cost           Parts cost        product        operators
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Replacement...........................  1 work-hour x $85 per               $323            $408         $13,056
                                         hour = $85.
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

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 FAA determined that this proposed AD would not have federalism 
implications under Executive Order 13132. This proposed AD would 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, I certify that this proposed regulation:
    (1) Is not a ``significant regulatory action'' under Executive 
Order 12866, and
    (2) Would not affect intrastate aviation in Alaska.
    (3) Would 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 Proposed Amendment

    Accordingly, under the authority delegated to me by the 
Administrator, the FAA proposes to amend 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:

H[eacute]licopt[egrave]res Guimbal: Docket No. FAA-2021-0574; 
Project Identifier 2019-SW-073-AD.

(a) Comments Due Date

    The FAA must receive comments on this airworthiness directive 
(AD) by August 23, 2021.

(b) Affected ADs

    None.

(c) Applicability

    This AD applies to H[eacute]licopt[egrave]res Guimbal Model 
CABRI G2 helicopters, certificated in any category, with main rotor 
(MR) non-rotating scissor links, part number (P/N) G41-10-200 
installed.

(d) Subject

    Joint Aircraft Service Component (JASC) Code: 6700, Rotorcraft 
Flight Control.

(e) Unsafe Condition

    This AD was prompted by a report that during scheduled 
maintenance on two helicopters, cracks were found on the MR non-
rotating scissor link with part number (P/N) G41-10-200. The FAA is 
issuing this AD to address cracking of a MR non-rotating scissor 
link. Cracking of a MR non-rotating scissor link, if not addressed, 
could result in failure of that scissor link, resulting in reduced 
control of the helicopter.

(f) Compliance

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

(g) Required Actions

    (1) Within 50 hours time-in-service or 2 months after the 
effective date of this AD, whichever occurs first, modify the 
helicopter by replacing the MR non-rotating scissor link, P/N G41-
10-200, with a serviceable scissor link assembly, P/N G41-12-100, in 
accordance with the Required Actions, IPC 4.1-2 (a) through (d) 
inclusive, of Guimbal Service Bulletin SB 15-015, Revision C, dated 
August 27, 2019.
    (2) As of the effective date of this AD, do not install a MR 
non-rotating scissor link, P/N G41-10-200, on any helicopter.

(h) Credit for Previous Actions

    This paragraph provides credit for actions required by paragraph 
(g)(1) of this AD, if those actions were performed before the 
effective date of this AD using the service information specified in 
paragraph (h)(1) or (2) of this AD.
    (1) Guimbal Service Bulletin SB 15-015, Revision A, dated July 
20, 2015.
    (2) Guimbal Service Bulletin SB 15-015, Revision B, dated July 
12, 2019.

(i) Special Flight Permits

    Special flight permits, as described in 14 CFR 21.197 and 
21.199, are prohibited.

(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)(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.

[[Page 38946]]

(k) Related Information

    (1) For more information about this AD, contact Darren Gassetto, 
Aerospace Engineer, COS Program Management Section, Operational 
Safety Branch, Compliance & Airworthiness Division, FAA, 1600 
Stewart Ave., Suite 410, Westbury, NY 11590; telephone (516) 228-
7323; email [email protected].
    (2) For service information identified in this AD, contact 
H[eacute]licopt[egrave]res Guimbal, 1070, rue du Lieutenant Parayre, 
A[eacute]rodrome d'Aix-en-Provence, 13290 Les Milles, France; 
telephone 33-04-42-39-10-88; email [email protected]; or at 
https://www.guimbal.com. You may view this referenced service 
information at the FAA, Office of the Regional Counsel, Southwest 
Region, 10101 Hillwood Pkwy., Room 6N-321, Fort Worth, TX 76177. For 
information on the availability of this material at the FAA, call 
(817) 222-5110.
    (3) The subject of this AD is addressed in European Union 
Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) AD 2019-0186, dated July 30, 2019. You 
may view the EASA AD at https://www.regulations.gov in Docket No. 
FAA-2021-0574.

    Issued on July 14, 2021.
Lance T. Gant,
Director, Compliance & Airworthiness Division, Aircraft Certification 
Service.
[FR Doc. 2021-15475 Filed 7-22-21; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE 4910-13-P


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