Airworthiness Directives; Airbus Helicopters, 47557-47561 [2021-18441]
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Federal Register / Vol. 86, No. 163 / Thursday, August 26, 2021 / Rules and Regulations
§ 39.13
[Amended]
2. The FAA amends § 39.13 by adding
the following new airworthiness
directive:
■
2021–16–03 Airbus SAS: Amendment 39–
21665; Docket No. FAA–2021–0142;
Project Identifier MCAI–2020–01400–T.
(a) Effective Date
This airworthiness directive (AD) is
effective September 30, 2021.
(b) Affected ADs
None.
(c) Applicability
This AD applies to Airbus SAS Model
A350–941 and –1041 airplanes, certificated
in any category, as identified in European
Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) AD
2020–0220, dated October 13, 2020 (EASA
AD 2020–0220).
(d) Subject
Air Transport Association (ATA) of
America Code 57, Wings.
(e) Reason
This AD was prompted by in-production
findings of missing or incorrect application
of the lightning strike edge glow sealant
protection at specific locations in the wing
tanks. The FAA is issuing this AD to address
missing or incorrectly applied sealant, which
in combination with an undetected incorrect
installation of an adjacent fastener and a
lightning strike in the immediate area, could
result in ignition of the fuel-air mixture
inside the affected fuel tanks and loss of the
airplane.
(f) Compliance
Comply with this AD within the
compliance times specified, unless already
done.
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(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, EASA AD 2020–0220.
(h) Exceptions to EASA AD 2020–0220
(1) Where EASA AD 2020–0220 refers to its
effective date, this AD requires using the
effective date of this AD.
(2) The ‘‘Remarks’’ section of EASA AD
2020–0220 does not apply to this AD.
(3) Where paragraph (1) of EASA AD 2020–
0220 gives a compliance time of ‘‘the next
scheduled maintenance tank entry, or before
exceeding 6 years since Airbus date of
manufacture, whichever occurs first after the
effective date of this AD,’’ for this AD, the
compliance time is the later of the times
specified in paragraphs (h)(3)(i) and (ii) of
this AD.
(i) The next scheduled maintenance tank
entry, or before exceeding 6 years since
Airbus date of manufacture, whichever
occurs first after the effective date of this AD.
(ii) Within 6 months after the effective date
of this AD.
(4) Where paragraph (2) of EASA AD 2020–
0220 refers to ‘‘discrepancies,’’ for this AD,
discrepancies include missing or incorrectly
applied sealant.
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(i) Other FAA AD Provisions
The following provisions also apply to this
AD:
(1) Alternative Methods of Compliance
(AMOCs): The Manager, Large Aircraft
Section, 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 responsible Flight
Standards Office, as appropriate. If sending
information directly to the Large Aircraft
Section, International Validation Branch,
send it to the attention of the person
identified in paragraph (j) of this AD.
Information may be emailed to: 9-AVS-AIR730-AMOC@faa.gov. Before using any
approved AMOC, notify your appropriate
principal inspector, or lacking a principal
inspector, the manager of the responsible
Flight Standards Office.
(2) Contacting the Manufacturer: For any
requirement in this AD to obtain instructions
from a manufacturer, the instructions must
be accomplished using a method approved
by the Manager, Large Aircraft Section,
International Validation Branch, FAA; or
EASA; or Airbus SAS’s EASA Design
Organization Approval (DOA). If approved by
the DOA, the approval must include the
DOA-authorized signature.
(3) Required for Compliance (RC): Except
as required by paragraph (i)(2) of this AD, if
any service information contains procedures
or tests that are identified as RC, those
procedures and tests must be done to comply
with this AD; any procedures or tests that are
not identified as RC are recommended. Those
procedures and tests that are not identified
as RC may be deviated from using accepted
methods in accordance with the operator’s
maintenance or inspection program without
obtaining approval of an AMOC, provided
the procedures and tests identified as RC can
be done and the airplane can be put back in
an airworthy condition. Any substitutions or
changes to procedures or tests identified as
RC require approval of an AMOC.
(j) Related Information
For more information about this AD,
contact Nick Wilson, Aerospace Engineer,
Large Aircraft Section, International
Validation Branch, FAA, 2200 South 216th
St., Des Moines, WA 98198; telephone and
fax 206–231–3230; email nicholas.wilson@
faa.gov.
(k) Material Incorporated by Reference
(1) The Director of the Federal Register
approved the incorporation by reference
(IBR) of the service information listed in this
paragraph under 5 U.S.C. 552(a) and 1 CFR
part 51.
(2) You must use this service information
as applicable to do the actions required by
this AD, unless this AD specifies otherwise.
(i) European Union Aviation Safety Agency
(EASA) AD 2020–0220, dated October 13,
2020.
(ii) [Reserved]
(3) For EASA AD 2020–0220, contact
EASA, Konrad-Adenauer-Ufer 3, 50668
Cologne, Germany; telephone +49 221 8999
000; email ADs@easa.europa.eu; internet
PO 00000
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47557
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 material at the FAA,
Airworthiness Products Section, Operational
Safety Branch, 2200 South 216th St., Des
Moines, WA. For information on the
availability of this material at the FAA, call
206–231–3195. 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–2021–0142.
(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 July 21, 2021.
Gaetano A. Sciortino,
Deputy Director for Strategic Initiatives,
Compliance & Airworthiness Division,
Aircraft Certification Service.
[FR Doc. 2021–18332 Filed 8–25–21; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE 4910–13–P
DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION
Federal Aviation Administration
14 CFR Part 39
[Docket No. FAA–2021–0717; Project
Identifier AD–2021–00814–R; Amendment
39–21707; AD 2021–18–06]
RIN 2120–AA64
Airworthiness Directives; Airbus
Helicopters
Federal Aviation
Administration (FAA), DOT.
ACTION: Final rule; request for
comments.
AGENCY:
The FAA is superseding
Airworthiness Directive (AD) 2021–11–
03, which applied to certain Airbus
Helicopters Model EC 155B, EC155B1,
SA–365N, SA–365N1, AS–365N2, and
AS 365 N3 helicopters. AD 2021–11–03
required inspecting the main gearbox
(MGB) fixed cowling front fitting (MGB
front fitting), and depending on
findings, corrective action. This AD
retains the requirements of AD 2021–
11–03, and includes service information
that was omitted for Airbus Helicopter
Model EC 155B and EC155B1
helicopters, as specified in a European
Aviation Safety Agency (now 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 becomes effective
September 10, 2021.
The Director of the Federal Register
approved the incorporation by reference
SUMMARY:
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Federal Register / Vol. 86, No. 163 / Thursday, August 26, 2021 / Rules and Regulations
of certain publications listed in this AD
as of July 15, 2021 (86 FR 30759, June
10, 2021).
The FAA must receive comments on
this AD by October 12, 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 EASA 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. For Airbus
Helicopters 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
this material at the FAA, Office of the
Regional Counsel, Southwest Region,
10101 Hillwood Pkwy., Room 6N–321,
Fort Worth, TX 76177. For information
on the availability of this material at the
FAA, call (817) 222–5110. Service
information also available in the AD
docket on the internet at https://
www.regulations.gov by searching for
and locating Docket No. FAA–2021–
0717.
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Examining the AD Docket
You may examine the AD docket on
the internet at https://
www.regulations.gov by searching for
and locating Docket No. FAA–2021–
0717; or in person at Docket Operations
between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m., Monday
through Friday, except Federal holidays.
The AD docket contains this AD, any
comments received, and other
information. The street address for
Docket Operations is listed above.
Comments will be available in the AD
docket shortly after receipt.
FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT:
Andrea Jimenez, Aerospace Engineer,
COS Program Management Section,
Operational Safety Branch, Compliance
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& Airworthiness Division, FAA, 1600
Stewart Ave., Suite 410, Westbury, NY
11590; telephone (516) 228–7330; email
andrea.jimenez@faa.gov.
SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION:
Background
The FAA issued AD 2021–11–03,
Amendment 39–21565 (86 FR 30759,
June 10, 2021) (AD 2021–11–03), for
certain Airbus Helicopters Model EC
155B, EC155B1, SA–365N, SA–365N1,
AS–365N2, and AS 365 N3 helicopters.
AD 2021–11–03 required inspecting and
if necessary, replacing the MGB front
fitting. AD 2021–11–03 also required
modifying the MGB front fitting. AD
2021–11–03 was prompted by EASA AD
2019–0008, dated January 22, 2019
(EASA AD 2019–0008), issued by
EASA, which is the Technical Agent for
the Member States of the European
Union, to correct an unsafe condition
for certain Airbus Helicopters (AH),
formerly Eurocopter, Eurocopter France,
Aerospatiale, Model EC 155 B, EC 155
B1, SA 365 N, SA 365 N1, AS 365 N2,
and AS 365 N3 helicopters. EASA
advises of reports of an in-flight loss of
engine and MGB cowlings. Subsequent
investigations revealed that the MGB
cowling attachment fittings failed
because of mounting stress in the MGB
front fitting and air intake bulkhead.
This condition, if not addressed, could
result in damage to the helicopter, loss
of helicopter control, and possible
injury to persons on the ground.
Accordingly, EASA AD 2019–0008
requires inspecting the MGB front
fittings and if there is a discrepancy, the
EASA AD requires applicable corrective
action(s) before next flight. EASA AD
2019–0008 also requires modification of
the MGB fixed cowling attachments.
Accomplishing the modification
constitutes a terminating action for the
required inspection.
Actions Since AD 2021–11–03 Was
Issued
Since AD 2021–11–03 was issued, the
FAA discovered that paragraph ‘‘(h)
Exceptions to EASA AD 2019–0008’’ of
AD 2021–11–03, inadvertently omitted
service information required for Airbus
Helicopters Model EC 155B and
EC155B1 helicopters. This AD corrects
subparagraph (h)(8) to add Airbus
Helicopters Alert Service Bulletin ASB
No. 53A035, Revision 0, dated March
13, 2017, and ASB No. 53A035,
Revision 1, dated December 20, 2018.
This AD also updates the U.S. fleet size
in the Costs of Compliance section.
FAA’s Determination
These products have been approved
by the aviation authority of another
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country, and are approved for operation
in the United States. Pursuant to the
bilateral agreement with the State of
Design Authority, the FAA has been
notified of the unsafe condition
described in the EASA AD referenced
above. The FAA is issuing this AD after
evaluating all the relevant information
and determining the unsafe condition
described previously is likely to exist or
develop in other products of these same
type designs.
Related IBR Material Under 1 CFR Part
51
This AD requires EASA AD 2019–
0008, dated January 22, 2019, which the
Director of the Federal Register
approved for incorporation by reference
as of July 15, 2021 (86 FR 30759, June
10, 2021). EASA AD 2019–0008 requires
inspecting the MGB front fittings within
110 flight hours after April 14, 2017 (the
effective date of EASA AD 2017–0055,
dated March 31, 2017). If there is a
discrepancy, the EASA AD requires
applicable corrective action(s) before
next flight. EASA AD 2019–0008 also
requires modification of the MGB fixed
cowling attachments within 660 flight
hours or 23 months, whichever occurs
first, after the effective date described in
EASA AD 2019–0008. Accomplishing
the modification constitutes a
terminating action for the required
inspection.
This AD also requires Airbus
Helicopters Alert Service Bulletin ASB
No. AS365–53.00.62 and ASB No.
EC155–53A038, each Revision 0 and
dated December 20, 2018 (ASB AS365–
53.00.62 and ASB EC155–53A038). ASB
AS365–53.00.62 applies to Model
AS365-series helicopters. ASB EC155–
53A038 applies to Model EC155-series
helicopters. The Director of the Federal
Register also approved this service
information for incorporation by
reference as of July 15, 2021 (86 FR
30759, June 10, 2021). This service
information specifies replacing the front
bracket, inspecting for stress of the MGB
fixed cowlings on the radiator bulkhead,
and installing an additional locking
system.
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.
AD Requirements
This AD requires accomplishing the
actions specified in EASA AD 2019–
0008 and the service information
already described, except for any
differences identified as exceptions in
the regulatory text of this AD.
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Justification for Immediate Adoption
and Determination of the Effective Date
Section 553(b)(3)(B) of the
Administrative Procedure Act (APA) (5
U.S.C. 551 et seq.) authorizes agencies
to dispense with notice and comment
procedures for rules when the agency,
for ‘‘good cause,’’ finds that those
procedures are ‘‘impracticable,
unnecessary, or contrary to the public
interest.’’ Under this section, an agency,
upon finding good cause, may issue a
final rule without providing notice and
seeking comment prior to issuance.
Further, section 553(d) of the APA
authorizes agencies to make rules
effective in less than thirty days, upon
a finding of good cause.
AD 2021–11–03 omitted service
information required for compliance for
certain Model EC 155B and EC155B1
helicopters. This AD corrects that error
by including Airbus Helicopters Alert
Service Bulletin ASB No. 53A035,
Revision 0, dated March 13, 2017, and
ASB No. 53A035, Revision 1, dated
December 20, 2018 in the regulatory
text. The public was previously
provided opportunity for comment on
the costs of the AD and required actions.
Accordingly, notice and opportunity
for prior public comment are
unnecessary pursuant to 5 U.S.C.
553(b)(3)(B). In addition, the FAA finds
that good cause exists pursuant to 5
U.S.C. 553(d) for making this
amendment effective in less than 30
days, for the same reasons the FAA
found good cause to forego notice and
comment.
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Explanation of Required Compliance
Information
In the FAA’s ongoing efforts to
improve the efficiency of the AD
process, the FAA developed a process to
use some civil aviation authority (CAA)
ADs as the primary source of
information for compliance with
requirements for corresponding FAA
ADs. The FAA has been coordinating
this process with manufacturers and
CAAs. As a result, the FAA is
incorporating EASA AD 2019–0008 by
reference in this FAA final rule. This
AD, therefore, requires compliance with
EASA AD 2019–0008 in its entirety
through that incorporation, except for
any differences identified as exceptions
in the regulatory text of this AD. Using
common terms that are the same as the
heading of a particular section in EASA
AD 2019–0008 does not mean that
operators need comply only with that
section. For example, where the AD
requirement refers to ‘‘all required
actions and compliance times,’’
compliance with this AD requirement is
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not limited to the section titled
‘‘Required Action(s) and Compliance
Time(s)’’ in EASA AD 2019–0008.
Service information required by EASA
AD 2019–0008 for compliance is
available at https://www.regulations.gov
by searching for and locating Docket No.
FAA–2021–0717.
Comments Invited
The FAA invites you to send any
written relevant data, views, or
arguments about this AD. Send your
comments to an address listed under
ADDRESSES. Include ‘‘Docket No. FAA–
2021–0717; Project Identifier AD–2021–
00814–R’’ at the beginning of your
comments. The most helpful comments
reference a specific portion of the AD,
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 AD 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 AD.
Confidential Business Information
CBI is commercial or financial
information that is both customarily and
actually treated as private by its owner.
Under the Freedom of Information Act
(FOIA) (5 U.S.C. 552), CBI is exempt
from public disclosure. If your
comments responsive to this AD contain
commercial or financial information
that is customarily treated as private,
that you actually treat as private, and
that is relevant or responsive to this AD,
it is important that you clearly designate
the submitted comments as CBI. Please
mark each page of your submission
containing CBI as ‘‘PROPIN.’’ The FAA
will treat such marked submissions as
confidential under the FOIA, and they
will not be placed in the public docket
of this AD. Submissions containing CBI
should be sent to 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 that
is not specifically designated as CBI will
be placed in the public docket for this
rulemaking.
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Regulatory Flexibility Act (RFA)
The requirements of the RFA do not
apply when an agency finds good cause
pursuant to 5 U.S.C. 553 to adopt a rule
without prior notice and comment.
Because the FAA has determined that it
has good cause to adopt this rule
without notice and comment, RFA
analysis is not required.
Costs of Compliance
The FAA estimates that this AD
affects 53 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.
Inspecting the MGB front fittings
takes about 2 work-hours for an
estimated cost of $170 per helicopter
and $9,010 for the U.S. fleet. If required,
replacing an MGB front fitting takes
about 2 work-hours and parts cost about
$590 for an estimated total cost of $760
per fitting. Other repairs will take up to
8 work-hours (excluding drying time)
and parts will cost a minimal amount
for an estimated cost of up to $680 per
helicopter.
Modifying the MGB fixed cowling
attachments takes about 5 work-hours
and parts cost about $630 for an
estimated cost of $1,055 per helicopter
and $55,915 for the U.S. fleet.
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
The FAA determined that 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
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power and responsibilities among the
various levels of government.
For the reasons discussed above, I
certify this regulation:
(1) Is not a ‘‘significant regulatory
action’’ under Executive Order 12866,
and
(2) Will not affect intrastate aviation
in Alaska.
(f) Compliance
Comply with this AD within the
compliance times specified, unless already
done.
List of Subjects in 14 CFR Part 39
Air transportation, Aircraft, Aviation
safety, Incorporation by reference,
Safety.
(h) Exceptions to EASA AD 2019–0008
(1) Where EASA AD 2019–0008 refers to
April 14, 2017 (the effective date of EASA
AD 2017–0055, dated March 31, 2017), this
AD requires using the effective date of this
AD.
(2) Where EASA AD 2019–0008 refers to its
effective date, this AD requires using the
effective date of this AD.
(3) Where EASA AD 2019–0008 refers to
flight hours (FH), this AD requires using
hours time-in-service.
(4) Where EASA AD 2019–0008 requires
the modification within 660 flight hours or
23 months, whichever occurs first, this AD
requires the modification within 660 hours
time-in-service instead.
(5) Although the service information
referenced in EASA AD 2019–0008 specifies
to discard certain parts, this AD requires
removing those parts from service instead.
(6) Where the service information
referenced in EASA AD 2019–0008 specifies
to use tooling, equivalent tooling may be
used.
(7) The ‘‘Remarks’’ section of EASA AD
2019–0008 does not apply to this AD.
(8) Where paragraph (1) of EASA AD 2019–
0008 states to, ‘‘inspect the MGB fixed
cowling front fittings in accordance with the
instructions of paragraph 1.E.2 of the
applicable inspection ASB or in accordance
with the instructions of the applicable
modification ASB,’’ this AD requires:
(i) For Model SA–365N, SA–365N1, AS–
365N2, and AS 365 N3 helicopters:
determining if Airbus Helicopters Alert
Service Bulletin No. 53.00.55, Revision 0,
dated March 13, 2017, or Revision 1, dated
December 20, 2018, has or has not been
complied with and following the
instructions, ‘‘For helicopters on which
ALERT SERVICE BULLETIN No. 53.00.55
has not been complied with’’ or ‘‘For
helicopters on which ALERT SERVICE
BULLETIN No. 53.00.55 has been complied
with,’’ as applicable, in paragraph 1.E.2, of
Airbus Helicopters Alert Service Bulletin No.
AS365–53.00.62 Revision 0, dated December
20, 2018 (ASB AS365–53.00.62).
(ii) For Model EC 155B and EC155B1
helicopters: determining if Airbus
Helicopters Alert Service Bulletin No.
53A035, Revision 0, dated March 13, 2017,
or Revision 1, dated December 20, 2018, has
or has not been complied with and following
the instructions, ‘‘For helicopters on which
ALERT SERVICE BULLETIN No. 53A035 has
not been complied with’’ or ‘‘For helicopters
on which ALERT SERVICE BULLETIN No.
53A035 has been complied with,’’ as
applicable, in paragraph 1.E.2, of Airbus
Helicopters Alert Service Bulletin No.
EC155–53A038, Revision 0, dated December
20, 2018 (ASB EC155–53A038).
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:
a. Removing Airworthiness Directive
2021–11–03, Amendment 39–21565 (86
FR 30759, June 10, 2021); and
■ b. Adding the following new
airworthiness directive:
■
■
2021–18–06 Airbus Helicopters:
Amendment 39–21707; Docket No.
FAA–2021–0717; Project Identifier AD–
2021–00814–R.
(a) Effective Date
This airworthiness directive (AD) becomes
effective September 10, 2021.
(b) Affected ADs
This AD replaces AD 2021–11–03,
Amendment 39–21565 (86 FR 30759, June
10, 2021) (AD 2021–11–03).
(c) Applicability
This AD applies to Airbus Helicopters
Model EC 155B, EC155B1, SA–365N, SA–
365N1, AS–365N2, and AS 365 N3
helicopters, certificated in any category, as
identified in European Aviation Safety
Agency (now European Union Aviation
Safety Agency) (EASA) AD 2019–0008, dated
January 22, 2019 (EASA AD 2019–0008).
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(d) Subject
Joint Aircraft System Component (JASC)
Code: 7110, Engine Cowling System.
(e) Unsafe Condition
This AD was prompted by a report of an
in-flight loss of main gearbox (MGB) and
engine cowlings. The FAA is issuing this AD
to address a failure of the MGB fixed cowling
front fitting, and subsequent MGB cowling or
engine cowling detachment, which could
result in damage to the helicopter, loss of
helicopter control, and possible injury to
persons on the ground.
VerDate Sep<11>2014
16:08 Aug 25, 2021
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(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, EASA AD 2019–0008.
PO 00000
Frm 00020
Fmt 4700
Sfmt 4700
(9) Where paragraph (2) of EASA AD 2019–
0008 states to, ‘‘accomplish the applicable
corrective action(s) in accordance with
paragraph 1.E.2 of the applicable inspection
ASB or in accordance with the instructions
of the applicable modification ASB,’’ this AD
requires accomplishing the applicable
corrective actions by following ASB AS365–
53.00.62 or ASB EC155–53A038, as
applicable to your model helicopter.
(10) Where paragraph 3.B.2.e.3 of the
applicable modification ASB referenced in
EASA AD 2019–0008 refers to paragraph
3.B.e.3, this AD requires referring to
paragraph 3.B.3 of ASB AS365–53.00.62 or
ASB EC155–53A038, as applicable to your
model helicopter.
(i) Special Flight Permit
Special flight permits, as described in 14
CFR 21.197 and 21.199, are not allowed.
(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 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.
(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.
(3) The following service information was
approved for IBR on July 15, 2021 (86 FR
30759, June 10, 2021).
(i) European Aviation Safety Agency
(EASA) AD 2019–0008, dated January 22,
2019.
(ii) Airbus Helicopters Alert Service
Bulletin ASB No. AS365–53.00.62, Revision
0, dated December 20, 2018.
(iii) Airbus Helicopters Alert Service
Bulletin ASB No. EC155–53A038, Revision 0,
dated December 20, 2018.
(3) For EASA AD 2019–0008, contact the
EASA, Konrad-Adenauer-Ufer 3, 50668
Cologne, Germany; telephone +49 221 8999
E:\FR\FM\26AUR1.SGM
26AUR1
Federal Register / Vol. 86, No. 163 / Thursday, August 26, 2021 / Rules and Regulations
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. 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.
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–2021–0717.
(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
fr.inspection@nara.gov, or go to https://
www.archives.gov/federal-register/cfr/ibrlocations.html.
Issued on August 23, 2021.
Gaetano A. Sciortino,
Deputy Director for Strategic Initiatives,
Compliance & Airworthiness Division,
Aircraft Certification Service.
[FR Doc. 2021–18441 Filed 8–24–21; 11:15 am]
BILLING CODE 4910–13–P
SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE
COMMISSION
17 CFR Part 200
[Release No. 34–92727; FOIA–194]
Freedom of Information Act
Regulations
Securities and Exchange
Commission.
ACTION: Final rule.
AGENCY:
The Securities and Exchange
Commission (‘‘Commission’’) is making
an amendment to the Commission’s
Freedom of Information Act (‘‘FOIA’’)
regulations to remove a provision
stating that records that the FOIA
requires to be made available for public
inspection in an electronic format will
be available to persons who do not have
access to the internet in the
Commission’s Public Reference Room.
The Commission’s FOIA regulations
will continue to provide that persons
who do not have access to the internet
can obtain the documents required to be
made available for public inspection by
telephone or email request to the Office
of FOIA Services.
DATES: Effective date: August 26, 2021.
jbell on DSKJLSW7X2PROD with RULES
SUMMARY:
VerDate Sep<11>2014
16:08 Aug 25, 2021
Jkt 253001
Ray
McInerney, FOIA/PA Officer, Office of
FOIA Services, (202) 551–6249;
Securities and Exchange Commission,
100 F Street NE, Washington, DC
20549–5041.
FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT:
The
Commission is adopting an amendment
to its FOIA regulations at 17 CFR
200.80(a)(2)(ii).
SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION:
I. Background
The Freedom of Information Act
requires each agency, in accordance
with published rules, to make certain
records available for public inspection
in an electronic format.1 The
Commission’s regulation at 17 CFR
200.80(a)(2)(ii) provides that records
that the FOIA requires to be made
available for public inspection in an
electronic format are accessible through
the Commission’s website. In addition,
under the existing regulation, persons
without access to the internet may
obtain these records by telephone or
email request or by visiting the Public
Reference Room at the Commission’s
headquarters in Washington, DC. The
FOIA itself does not require that
agencies provide access to documents
that are available for public inspection
in an electronic format in a public
reference room.
The Public Reference Room, which is
housed within the Commission’s
Library, contains a computer terminal
that members of the public may use to
access records that the SEC is required
to make publicly available under the
FOIA. The Commission’s visitor logs
and information from the Commission
Library staff indicate that no one has
used the computer terminal in the
Public Reference Room to access records
that the FOIA requires to be made
available for public inspection in an
electronic format from 2018 through the
date of this document.2 In light of the
lack of use of the computer terminal in
the Public Reference Room as a means
of accessing the records, we are
adopting technical amendments to our
FOIA rules to remove the reference to
obtaining access in the Public Reference
Room. The Commission’s regulation
will continue to provide that persons
who do not have access to the internet
will be able to obtain the documents
required to be made available for public
inspection via telephone or email
request to the Commission’s Office of
FOIA Services.
15
U.S.C. 552(a)(2).
to the COVID pandemic, the public has not
been allowed access to the Public Reference Room
since April 13, 2020.
II. Administrative Law Matters
The Commission finds, in accordance
with the Administrative Procedure Act
(‘‘APA’’), that these revisions relate
solely to agency organization,
procedures, or practice and do not
constitute a substantive rule.
Accordingly, the APA’s provisions
regarding notice of rulemaking,
opportunity for public comment, and
advance publication of the amendments
are not applicable.3 For the same reason,
and because these amendments do not
substantially affect the rights or
obligations of non-agency parties, the
provisions of the Small Business
Regulatory Enforcement Fairness Act
are not applicable.4
Additionally, the provisions of the
Regulatory Flexibility Act, which apply
only when notice and comment are
required by the APA or other law, are
not applicable. These amendments do
not contain any collection of
information requirements as defined by
the Paperwork Reduction Act of 1995.
III. Economic Analysis
We are adopting an amendment to
remove a provision that states that
documents that the FOIA requires to be
made available for public inspection in
an electronic format will be available to
persons who do not have access to the
internet in the Commission’s Public
Reference Room. This amendment does
not impose any substantive regulatory
obligations on any person. We do not
believe the amendment will have any
substantial economic effect, including
on efficiency, competition, or capital
formation. All documents that the FOIA
requires to be available will remain
available to the public via the internet,
mail, email, or telephone request.
Members of the public who wish to
make use of the Commission’s Public
Reference Room but who must now
make use of one of the alternatives
could potentially incur net costs if the
alternatives are less accessible than
using the computer available in the
Public Reference Room. However, since
the documents at issue are readily
available through any computer
connected to the internet and can also
be obtained by mail and since no person
has used the Commission’s Public
Reference Room for this purpose in at
least two years, we believe any such
incremental costs will be small and
incurred infrequently. Because the
amendment imposes no substantial new
burdens on private parties, the
Commission believes that the
amendment will not have any impact on
2 Due
PO 00000
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Fmt 4700
Sfmt 4700
47561
35
45
U.S.C. 553.
U.S.C. 804(3)(C).
E:\FR\FM\26AUR1.SGM
26AUR1
]]>Agencies
[Federal Register Volume 86, Number 163 (Thursday, August 26, 2021)]
[Rules and Regulations]
[Pages 47557-47561]
From the Federal Register Online via the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]
[FR Doc No: 2021-18441]
-----------------------------------------------------------------------
DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION
Federal Aviation Administration
14 CFR Part 39
[Docket No. FAA-2021-0717; Project Identifier AD-2021-00814-R;
Amendment 39-21707; AD 2021-18-06]
RIN 2120-AA64
Airworthiness Directives; Airbus Helicopters
AGENCY: Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), DOT.
ACTION: Final rule; request for comments.
-----------------------------------------------------------------------
SUMMARY: The FAA is superseding Airworthiness Directive (AD) 2021-11-
03, which applied to certain Airbus Helicopters Model EC 155B, EC155B1,
SA-365N, SA-365N1, AS-365N2, and AS 365 N3 helicopters. AD 2021-11-03
required inspecting the main gearbox (MGB) fixed cowling front fitting
(MGB front fitting), and depending on findings, corrective action. This
AD retains the requirements of AD 2021-11-03, and includes service
information that was omitted for Airbus Helicopter Model EC 155B and
EC155B1 helicopters, as specified in a European Aviation Safety Agency
(now 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 becomes effective September 10, 2021.
The Director of the Federal Register approved the incorporation by
reference
[[Page 47558]]
of certain publications listed in this AD as of July 15, 2021 (86 FR
30759, June 10, 2021).
The FAA must receive comments on this AD by October 12, 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 EASA 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. For Airbus Helicopters 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 this material at the FAA,
Office of the Regional Counsel, Southwest Region, 10101 Hillwood Pkwy.,
Room 6N-321, Fort Worth, TX 76177. For information on the availability
of this material at the FAA, call (817) 222-5110. Service information
also available in the AD docket on the internet at https://www.regulations.gov by searching for and locating Docket No. FAA-2021-
0717.
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-
0717; or in person at Docket Operations between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m.,
Monday through Friday, except Federal holidays. The AD docket contains
this AD, any comments received, and other information. The street
address for Docket Operations is listed above. Comments will be
available in the AD docket shortly after receipt.
FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: 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 [email protected].
SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION:
Background
The FAA issued AD 2021-11-03, Amendment 39-21565 (86 FR 30759, June
10, 2021) (AD 2021-11-03), for certain Airbus Helicopters Model EC
155B, EC155B1, SA-365N, SA-365N1, AS-365N2, and AS 365 N3 helicopters.
AD 2021-11-03 required inspecting and if necessary, replacing the MGB
front fitting. AD 2021-11-03 also required modifying the MGB front
fitting. AD 2021-11-03 was prompted by EASA AD 2019-0008, dated January
22, 2019 (EASA AD 2019-0008), issued by EASA, which is the Technical
Agent for the Member States of the European Union, to correct an unsafe
condition for certain Airbus Helicopters (AH), formerly Eurocopter,
Eurocopter France, Aerospatiale, Model EC 155 B, EC 155 B1, SA 365 N,
SA 365 N1, AS 365 N2, and AS 365 N3 helicopters. EASA advises of
reports of an in-flight loss of engine and MGB cowlings. Subsequent
investigations revealed that the MGB cowling attachment fittings failed
because of mounting stress in the MGB front fitting and air intake
bulkhead. This condition, if not addressed, could result in damage to
the helicopter, loss of helicopter control, and possible injury to
persons on the ground.
Accordingly, EASA AD 2019-0008 requires inspecting the MGB front
fittings and if there is a discrepancy, the EASA AD requires applicable
corrective action(s) before next flight. EASA AD 2019-0008 also
requires modification of the MGB fixed cowling attachments.
Accomplishing the modification constitutes a terminating action for the
required inspection.
Actions Since AD 2021-11-03 Was Issued
Since AD 2021-11-03 was issued, the FAA discovered that paragraph
``(h) Exceptions to EASA AD 2019-0008'' of AD 2021-11-03, inadvertently
omitted service information required for Airbus Helicopters Model EC
155B and EC155B1 helicopters. This AD corrects subparagraph (h)(8) to
add Airbus Helicopters Alert Service Bulletin ASB No. 53A035, Revision
0, dated March 13, 2017, and ASB No. 53A035, Revision 1, dated December
20, 2018. This AD also updates the U.S. fleet size in the Costs of
Compliance section.
FAA's Determination
These products have been approved by the aviation authority of
another country, and are approved for operation in the United States.
Pursuant to the bilateral agreement with the State of Design Authority,
the FAA has been notified of the unsafe condition described in the EASA
AD referenced above. The FAA is issuing this AD after evaluating all
the relevant information and determining the unsafe condition described
previously is likely to exist or develop in other products of these
same type designs.
Related IBR Material Under 1 CFR Part 51
This AD requires EASA AD 2019-0008, dated January 22, 2019, which
the Director of the Federal Register approved for incorporation by
reference as of July 15, 2021 (86 FR 30759, June 10, 2021). EASA AD
2019-0008 requires inspecting the MGB front fittings within 110 flight
hours after April 14, 2017 (the effective date of EASA AD 2017-0055,
dated March 31, 2017). If there is a discrepancy, the EASA AD requires
applicable corrective action(s) before next flight. EASA AD 2019-0008
also requires modification of the MGB fixed cowling attachments within
660 flight hours or 23 months, whichever occurs first, after the
effective date described in EASA AD 2019-0008. Accomplishing the
modification constitutes a terminating action for the required
inspection.
This AD also requires Airbus Helicopters Alert Service Bulletin ASB
No. AS365-53.00.62 and ASB No. EC155-53A038, each Revision 0 and dated
December 20, 2018 (ASB AS365-53.00.62 and ASB EC155-53A038). ASB AS365-
53.00.62 applies to Model AS365-series helicopters. ASB EC155-53A038
applies to Model EC155-series helicopters. The Director of the Federal
Register also approved this service information for incorporation by
reference as of July 15, 2021 (86 FR 30759, June 10, 2021). This
service information specifies replacing the front bracket, inspecting
for stress of the MGB fixed cowlings on the radiator bulkhead, and
installing an additional locking system.
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.
AD Requirements
This AD requires accomplishing the actions specified in EASA AD
2019-0008 and the service information already described, except for any
differences identified as exceptions in the regulatory text of this AD.
[[Page 47559]]
Justification for Immediate Adoption and Determination of the Effective
Date
Section 553(b)(3)(B) of the Administrative Procedure Act (APA) (5
U.S.C. 551 et seq.) authorizes agencies to dispense with notice and
comment procedures for rules when the agency, for ``good cause,'' finds
that those procedures are ``impracticable, unnecessary, or contrary to
the public interest.'' Under this section, an agency, upon finding good
cause, may issue a final rule without providing notice and seeking
comment prior to issuance. Further, section 553(d) of the APA
authorizes agencies to make rules effective in less than thirty days,
upon a finding of good cause.
AD 2021-11-03 omitted service information required for compliance
for certain Model EC 155B and EC155B1 helicopters. This AD corrects
that error by including Airbus Helicopters Alert Service Bulletin ASB
No. 53A035, Revision 0, dated March 13, 2017, and ASB No. 53A035,
Revision 1, dated December 20, 2018 in the regulatory text. The public
was previously provided opportunity for comment on the costs of the AD
and required actions.
Accordingly, notice and opportunity for prior public comment are
unnecessary pursuant to 5 U.S.C. 553(b)(3)(B). In addition, the FAA
finds that good cause exists pursuant to 5 U.S.C. 553(d) for making
this amendment effective in less than 30 days, for the same reasons the
FAA found good cause to forego notice and comment.
Explanation of Required Compliance Information
In the FAA's ongoing efforts to improve the efficiency of the AD
process, the FAA developed a process to use some civil aviation
authority (CAA) ADs as the primary source of information for compliance
with requirements for corresponding FAA ADs. The FAA has been
coordinating this process with manufacturers and CAAs. As a result, the
FAA is incorporating EASA AD 2019-0008 by reference in this FAA final
rule. This AD, therefore, requires compliance with EASA AD 2019-0008 in
its entirety through that incorporation, except for any differences
identified as exceptions in the regulatory text of this AD. Using
common terms that are the same as the heading of a particular section
in EASA AD 2019-0008 does not mean that operators need comply only with
that section. For example, where the AD requirement refers to ``all
required actions and compliance times,'' compliance with this AD
requirement is not limited to the section titled ``Required Action(s)
and Compliance Time(s)'' in EASA AD 2019-0008. Service information
required by EASA AD 2019-0008 for compliance is available at https://www.regulations.gov by searching for and locating Docket No. FAA-2021-
0717.
Comments Invited
The FAA invites you to send any written relevant data, views, or
arguments about this AD. Send your comments to an address listed under
ADDRESSES. Include ``Docket No. FAA-2021-0717; Project Identifier AD-
2021-00814-R'' at the beginning of your comments. The most helpful
comments reference a specific portion of the AD, 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
AD 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 AD.
Confidential Business Information
CBI is commercial or financial information that is both customarily
and actually treated as private by its owner. Under the Freedom of
Information Act (FOIA) (5 U.S.C. 552), CBI is exempt from public
disclosure. If your comments responsive to this AD contain commercial
or financial information that is customarily treated as private, that
you actually treat as private, and that is relevant or responsive to
this AD, it is important that you clearly designate the submitted
comments as CBI. Please mark each page of your submission containing
CBI as ``PROPIN.'' The FAA will treat such marked submissions as
confidential under the FOIA, and they will not be placed in the public
docket of this AD. Submissions containing CBI should be sent to 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 [email protected]. Any commentary that the FAA
receives that is not specifically designated as CBI will be placed in
the public docket for this rulemaking.
Regulatory Flexibility Act (RFA)
The requirements of the RFA do not apply when an agency finds good
cause pursuant to 5 U.S.C. 553 to adopt a rule without prior notice and
comment. Because the FAA has determined that it has good cause to adopt
this rule without notice and comment, RFA analysis is not required.
Costs of Compliance
The FAA estimates that this AD affects 53 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.
Inspecting the MGB front fittings takes about 2 work-hours for an
estimated cost of $170 per helicopter and $9,010 for the U.S. fleet. If
required, replacing an MGB front fitting takes about 2 work-hours and
parts cost about $590 for an estimated total cost of $760 per fitting.
Other repairs will take up to 8 work-hours (excluding drying time) and
parts will cost a minimal amount for an estimated cost of up to $680
per helicopter.
Modifying the MGB fixed cowling attachments takes about 5 work-
hours and parts cost about $630 for an estimated cost of $1,055 per
helicopter and $55,915 for the U.S. fleet.
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
The FAA determined that 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
[[Page 47560]]
power and responsibilities among the various levels of government.
For the reasons discussed above, I certify this regulation:
(1) Is not a ``significant regulatory action'' under Executive
Order 12866, and
(2) Will not affect intrastate aviation in Alaska.
List of Subjects in 14 CFR Part 39
Air transportation, Aircraft, Aviation safety, Incorporation by
reference, Safety.
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:
0
a. Removing Airworthiness Directive 2021-11-03, Amendment 39-21565 (86
FR 30759, June 10, 2021); and
0
b. Adding the following new airworthiness directive:
2021-18-06 Airbus Helicopters: Amendment 39-21707; Docket No. FAA-
2021-0717; Project Identifier AD-2021-00814-R.
(a) Effective Date
This airworthiness directive (AD) becomes effective September
10, 2021.
(b) Affected ADs
This AD replaces AD 2021-11-03, Amendment 39-21565 (86 FR 30759,
June 10, 2021) (AD 2021-11-03).
(c) Applicability
This AD applies to Airbus Helicopters Model EC 155B, EC155B1,
SA-365N, SA-365N1, AS-365N2, and AS 365 N3 helicopters, certificated
in any category, as identified in European Aviation Safety Agency
(now European Union Aviation Safety Agency) (EASA) AD 2019-0008,
dated January 22, 2019 (EASA AD 2019-0008).
(d) Subject
Joint Aircraft System Component (JASC) Code: 7110, Engine
Cowling System.
(e) Unsafe Condition
This AD was prompted by a report of an in-flight loss of main
gearbox (MGB) and engine cowlings. The FAA is issuing this AD to
address a failure of the MGB fixed cowling front fitting, and
subsequent MGB cowling or engine cowling detachment, which could
result in damage to the helicopter, loss of helicopter control, and
possible injury to persons on the ground.
(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, EASA AD 2019-0008.
(h) Exceptions to EASA AD 2019-0008
(1) Where EASA AD 2019-0008 refers to April 14, 2017 (the
effective date of EASA AD 2017-0055, dated March 31, 2017), this AD
requires using the effective date of this AD.
(2) Where EASA AD 2019-0008 refers to its effective date, this
AD requires using the effective date of this AD.
(3) Where EASA AD 2019-0008 refers to flight hours (FH), this AD
requires using hours time-in-service.
(4) Where EASA AD 2019-0008 requires the modification within 660
flight hours or 23 months, whichever occurs first, this AD requires
the modification within 660 hours time-in-service instead.
(5) Although the service information referenced in EASA AD 2019-
0008 specifies to discard certain parts, this AD requires removing
those parts from service instead.
(6) Where the service information referenced in EASA AD 2019-
0008 specifies to use tooling, equivalent tooling may be used.
(7) The ``Remarks'' section of EASA AD 2019-0008 does not apply
to this AD.
(8) Where paragraph (1) of EASA AD 2019-0008 states to,
``inspect the MGB fixed cowling front fittings in accordance with
the instructions of paragraph 1.E.2 of the applicable inspection ASB
or in accordance with the instructions of the applicable
modification ASB,'' this AD requires:
(i) For Model SA-365N, SA-365N1, AS-365N2, and AS 365 N3
helicopters: determining if Airbus Helicopters Alert Service
Bulletin No. 53.00.55, Revision 0, dated March 13, 2017, or Revision
1, dated December 20, 2018, has or has not been complied with and
following the instructions, ``For helicopters on which ALERT SERVICE
BULLETIN No. 53.00.55 has not been complied with'' or ``For
helicopters on which ALERT SERVICE BULLETIN No. 53.00.55 has been
complied with,'' as applicable, in paragraph 1.E.2, of Airbus
Helicopters Alert Service Bulletin No. AS365-53.00.62 Revision 0,
dated December 20, 2018 (ASB AS365-53.00.62).
(ii) For Model EC 155B and EC155B1 helicopters: determining if
Airbus Helicopters Alert Service Bulletin No. 53A035, Revision 0,
dated March 13, 2017, or Revision 1, dated December 20, 2018, has or
has not been complied with and following the instructions, ``For
helicopters on which ALERT SERVICE BULLETIN No. 53A035 has not been
complied with'' or ``For helicopters on which ALERT SERVICE BULLETIN
No. 53A035 has been complied with,'' as applicable, in paragraph
1.E.2, of Airbus Helicopters Alert Service Bulletin No. EC155-
53A038, Revision 0, dated December 20, 2018 (ASB EC155-53A038).
(9) Where paragraph (2) of EASA AD 2019-0008 states to,
``accomplish the applicable corrective action(s) in accordance with
paragraph 1.E.2 of the applicable inspection ASB or in accordance
with the instructions of the applicable modification ASB,'' this AD
requires accomplishing the applicable corrective actions by
following ASB AS365-53.00.62 or ASB EC155-53A038, as applicable to
your model helicopter.
(10) Where paragraph 3.B.2.e.3 of the applicable modification
ASB referenced in EASA AD 2019-0008 refers to paragraph 3.B.e.3,
this AD requires referring to paragraph 3.B.3 of ASB AS365-53.00.62
or ASB EC155-53A038, as applicable to your model helicopter.
(i) Special Flight Permit
Special flight permits, as described in 14 CFR 21.197 and
21.199, are not allowed.
(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 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 [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.
(3) The following service information was approved for IBR on
July 15, 2021 (86 FR 30759, June 10, 2021).
(i) European Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) AD 2019-0008, dated
January 22, 2019.
(ii) Airbus Helicopters Alert Service Bulletin ASB No. AS365-
53.00.62, Revision 0, dated December 20, 2018.
(iii) Airbus Helicopters Alert Service Bulletin ASB No. EC155-
53A038, Revision 0, dated December 20, 2018.
(3) For EASA AD 2019-0008, contact the EASA, Konrad-Adenauer-
Ufer 3, 50668 Cologne, Germany; telephone +49 221 8999
[[Page 47561]]
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.
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. 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-
2021-0717.
(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 August 23, 2021.
Gaetano A. Sciortino,
Deputy Director for Strategic Initiatives, Compliance & Airworthiness
Division, Aircraft Certification Service.
[FR Doc. 2021-18441 Filed 8-24-21; 11:15 am]
BILLING CODE 4910-13-P
