Airworthiness Directives; Leonardo S.p.a. Helicopters, 50239-50242 [2021-19248]
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Federal Register / Vol. 86, No. 171 / Wednesday, September 8, 2021 / Rules and Regulations
(g) Required Actions
(1) Within 25 hours time-in-service after
the effective date of this AD, replace relay
panel assembly P/N SLS–075–002–107 with
relay panel assembly P/N SLS–075–002–109
by following the Accomplishment
Instructions, paragraphs 1.a. through 3, of
Bell Helicopter Alert Service Bulletin 505–
17–04, dated December 6, 2017.
(2) As of the effective date of this AD, do
not install relay panel assembly P/N SLS–
075–002–107 on any helicopter.
(h) Alternative Methods of Compliance
(AMOCs)
(1) The Manager, International Validation
Branch, FAA, has the authority to approve
AMOCs for this AD, if requested using the
procedures found in 14 CFR 39.19. In
accordance with 14 CFR 39.19, send your
request to your principal inspector or local
Flight Standards District Office, as
appropriate. If sending information directly
to the manager of the International Validation
Branch, send it to the attention of the person
identified in paragraph (i)(1) of this AD.
Information may be emailed to: 9-AVS-AIR730-AMOC@faa.gov.
(2) Before using any approved AMOC,
notify your appropriate principal inspector,
or lacking a principal inspector, the manager
of the local flight standards district office/
certificate holding district office.
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(i) Related Information
(1) For more information about this AD,
contact Hal Jensen, Aerospace Engineer,
Operational Safety Branch, Compliance &
Airworthiness Division, FAA, 950 L’Enfant
Plaza N SW, Washington, DC 20024;
telephone (202) 267–9167; email hal.jensen@
faa.gov.
(2) The subject of this AD is addressed in
Transport Canada AD CF–2017–36, dated
December 15, 2017. You may view the
Transport Canada AD at https://
www.regulations.gov in Docket No. FAA–
2021–0377.
(j) Material Incorporated by Reference
(1) The Director of the Federal Register
approved the incorporation by reference of
the service information listed in this
paragraph under 5 U.S.C. 552(a) and 1 CFR
part 51.
(2) You must use this service information
as applicable to do the actions required by
this AD, unless the AD specifies otherwise.
(i) Bell Helicopter Alert Service Bulletin
505–17–04, dated December 6, 2017.
(ii) [Reserved]
(3) For Bell Helicopter service information
identified in this AD, contact Bell Textron
Canada Limited, 12,800 Rue de l’Avenir,
Mirabel, Quebec J7J1R4, Canada; telephone
(450) 437–2862 or (800) 363–8023; fax (450)
433–0272; email productsupport@
bellflight.com; or at https://
www.bellflight.com/support/contact-support.
(4) You may view this service information
at the FAA, Office of the Regional Counsel,
Southwest Region, 10101 Hillwood Pkwy.,
Room 6N–321, Fort Worth, TX 76177. For
information on the availability of this
material at the FAA, call (817) 222–5110.
(5) You may view this service information
that is incorporated by reference at the
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16:25 Sep 07, 2021
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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/
ibr-locations.html.
Issued on July 27, 2021.
Ross Landes,
Deputy Director for Regulatory Operations,
Compliance & Airworthiness Division,
Aircraft Certification Service.
[FR Doc. 2021–19251 Filed 9–7–21; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE 4910–13–P
DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION
Federal Aviation Administration
14 CFR Part 39
[Docket No. FAA–2021–0607; Project
Identifier MCAI–2020–01249–R; Amendment
39–21666; AD 2021–16–04]
RIN 2120–AA64
Airworthiness Directives; Leonardo
S.p.a. Helicopters
The FAA is adopting a new
airworthiness directive (AD) for all
Leonardo S.p.a. Model AB412 and
AB412 EP helicopters. This AD was
prompted by a report of the failure of
both inverters in-flight, leading to an
autopilot disconnection. This AD
requires a one-time inspection of the
clearance between a certain protective
grommet installed in the emergency bus
interlock compartment and the cable
assemblies passing through it, and
depending on the finding, applicable
corrective actions, as specified in a
European Union Aviation Safety Agency
(EASA) AD, which is incorporated by
reference. The FAA is issuing this AD
to address the unsafe condition on these
products.
DATES: This AD becomes effective
September 23, 2021.
The Director of the Federal Register
approved the incorporation by reference
of a certain publication listed in this AD
as of September 23, 2021.
The FAA must receive comments on
this AD by October 25, 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.
PO 00000
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• 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
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 IBR material on the EASA
website at https://ad.easa.europa.eu.
You may view the EASA 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 the EASA material at the
FAA, call (817) 222–5110. The EASA
material is also available at https://
www.regulations.gov by searching for
and locating Docket FAA–2021–0607.
Examining the AD Docket
Federal Aviation
Administration (FAA), DOT.
ACTION: Final rule; request for
comments.
AGENCY:
SUMMARY:
50239
You may examine the AD docket at
https://www.regulations.gov by
searching for and locating Docket No.
FAA–2021–0607; 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, the EASA AD, any comments
received, and other information. The
street address for Docket Operations is
listed above.
FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT:
Jacob Fitch, Aerospace Engineer, COS
Program Management Section,
Operational Safety Branch, Compliance
& Airworthiness Division, FAA, 10101
Hillwood Pkwy., Fort Worth, TX 76177;
telephone (817) 222–4130; email
jacob.fitch@faa.gov.
SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION:
Background
The EASA, which is the Technical
Agent for the Member States of the
European Union, has issued EASA AD
2020–0192, dated September 4, 2020
(EASA AD 2020–0192) (also referred to
as the Mandatory Continuing
Airworthiness Information, or the
MCAI), to correct an unsafe condition
for Leonardo S.p.a. (formerly
AgustaWestland S.p.A., Agusta S.p.A.,
and Costruzioni Aeronautiche Giovanni
Agusta) Model AB412 and AB412 EP
helicopters, all serial numbers.
This AD was prompted by a report of
the failure of both inverters in-flight,
leading to an autopilot disconnection.
Subsequent inspection identified
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Federal Register / Vol. 86, No. 171 / Wednesday, September 8, 2021 / Rules and Regulations
chafing of a wire in the alternating
current (AC) power system cable
assembly, due to a protective grommet
incorrectly installed in the emergency
bus interlock compartment. Insufficient
clearance between a protective grommet
and the cable assemblies that pass
through it could result in chafing of the
cable assemblies. The FAA is issuing
this AD to address incorrect installation
of a protective grommet in the
emergency bus interlock compartment
and chafed wiring in the AC power
system cable assembly. Chafed wiring in
the AC power system cable assembly, if
not addressed, could lead to a short in
the AC power system, resulting in
autopilot failure, possibly the loss of
other avionics systems, increased pilot
workload, and reduced control of the
helicopter.
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Related IBR Material Under 1 CFR Part
51
EASA AD 2020–0192 specifies
procedures for a one-time inspection of
the clearance between a protective
grommet installed in the emergency bus
interlock compartment and the cable
assemblies passing through it, and
corrective actions. The corrective
actions include replacing the existing
grommet with a new grommet,
inspecting the cable assemblies for
damage (including chafing) and
replacing affected cable assemblies, and
reworking the bulkhead in the
emergency bus interlock compartment.
The rework of the bulkhead includes
removing paint and primer, reworking
the lightening hole, deburring the hole,
applying chemical film protection, and
priming all bare metal surfaces.
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.
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
FAA’s bilateral agreement with the State
of Design Authority, the FAA has been
notified of the unsafe condition
described in the MCAI referenced
above. The FAA is issuing this AD after
evaluating all pertinent information and
determining that the unsafe condition
exists and is likely to exist or develop
on other products of these same type
designs.
Requirements of This AD
This AD requires accomplishing the
actions specified in EASA AD 2020–
0192, described previously, as
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16:25 Sep 07, 2021
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incorporated by reference, except for
any differences identified as exceptions
in the regulatory text of this AD.
Explanation of Required Compliance
Information
In the FAA’s ongoing efforts to
improve the efficiency of the AD
process, the FAA initially worked with
Airbus and EASA to develop a process
to use certain EASA ADs as the primary
source of information for compliance
with requirements for corresponding
FAA ADs. The FAA has since
coordinated with other manufacturers
and civil aviation authorities (CAAs) to
use this process. As a result, EASA AD
2020–0192 is incorporated by reference
in this FAA final rule. This AD
therefore, requires compliance with
EASA AD 2020–0192 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 the
EASA AD 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 the EASA
AD. Service information specified in
EASA AD 2020–0192 that is required for
compliance with EASA AD 2020–0192
is available on the internet at https://
www.regulations.gov by searching for
and locating Docket No. FAA–2021–
0607.
FAA’s Justification 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.
There are currently no domestic
operators of these products. Therefore,
the FAA finds that notice and
opportunity for prior public comment
are unnecessary pursuant to 5 U.S.C.
553(b)(3)(B). In addition, for the
foregoing reason, the FAA finds that
good cause exists pursuant to 5 U.S.C.
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553(d) for making this amendment
effective in less than 30 days.
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–
2021–0607; Project Identifier MCAI–
2020–01249–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 Jacob Fitch, Aerospace
Engineer, COS Program Management
Section, Operational Safety Branch,
Compliance & Airworthiness Division,
FAA, 10101 Hillwood Pkwy., Fort
Worth, TX 76177; telephone (817) 222–
4130; email jacob.fitch@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.
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
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Federal Register / Vol. 86, No. 171 / Wednesday, September 8, 2021 / Rules and Regulations
§ 39.13
■
Costs of Compliance
There are no costs of compliance with
this AD because there are no helicopters
with this type certificate on the U.S.
Registry.
2021–16–04 Leonardo S.p.a.: Amendment
39–21666; Docket No. FAA–2021–0607;
Project Identifier MCAI–2020–01249–R.
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
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:
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[Amended]
has good cause to adopt this rule
without notice and comment, RFA
analysis is not required.
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.
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16:25 Sep 07, 2021
Jkt 253001
2. The FAA amends § 39.13 by adding
the following new airworthiness
directive:
(a) Effective Date
This airworthiness directive (AD) becomes
effective September 23, 2021.
(b) Affected ADs
None.
(c) Applicability
This AD applies to all Leonardo S.p.a.
Model AB412 and AB412 EP helicopters,
certificated in any category.
(d) Subject
Joint Aircraft System Component (JASC)
Code 2400, Electrical Power System.
(e) Unsafe Condition
This AD was prompted by a report of the
failure of both inverters in-flight, leading to
an autopilot disconnection. Subsequent
inspection identified chafing of a wire in the
alternating current (AC) power system cable
assembly, due to a protective grommet
incorrectly installed in the emergency bus
interlock compartment. Insufficient clearance
between a protective grommet and the cable
assemblies that pass through it could result
in damage (including chafing) to the cable
assemblies. The FAA is issuing this AD to
address incorrect installation of a protective
grommet in the emergency bus interlock
compartment and chafed wiring in the AC
power system cable assembly. Chafed wiring
in the AC power system cable assembly, if
not addressed, could lead to a short in the
AC power system, resulting in autopilot
failure, possibly the loss of other avionics
systems, increased pilot workload, and
reduced control of the helicopter.
(f) Compliance
Comply with this AD within the
compliance times specified, unless already
done.
(g) Requirements
Except as specified in paragraph (h) of this
AD: Comply with all required actions and
compliance times specified in, and in
accordance with, European Union Aviation
Safety Agency (EASA) AD 2020–0192, dated
September 4, 2020 (EASA AD 2020–0192).
(h) Exceptions to EASA AD 2020–0192
(1) Where EASA AD 2020–0192 refers to its
effective date, this AD requires using the
effective date of this AD.
(2) Where the service information
referenced in EASA AD 2020–0192 specifies
to discard a certain part, this AD requires
removing that part from service.
(3) Where the service information
referenced in EASA AD 2020–0192 specifies
to replace a certain part, this AD requires
removing that part from service.
(4) Where EASA AD 2020–0192 refers to
flight hours (FH), this AD requires using
hours time-in-service.
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50241
(5) The ‘‘Remarks’’ section of EASA AD
2020–0192 does not apply to this AD.
(6) Where paragraph (2) of EASA AD 2020–
0192 refers to ‘‘any discrepancy’’ for this AD,
discrepancies include inadequate clearance
between the protective grommet and AC
power system cable assembly and damaged
(chafed) AC power system cable assemblies.
(i) No Reporting Requirement
Although the service information
referenced in EASA AD 2020–0192 specifies
to submit certain information to the
manufacturer, this AD does not include that
requirement.
(j) Special Flight Permit
Special flight permits, as described in 14
CFR 21.197 and 21.199, are prohibited.
(k) 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 (l) 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.
(l) Related Information
For more information about this AD,
contact Jacob Fitch, Aerospace Engineer, COS
Program Management Section, Operational
Safety Branch, Compliance & Airworthiness
Division, FAA, 10101 Hillwood Pkwy., Fort
Worth, TX 76177; telephone (817) 222–4130;
email jacob.fitch@faa.gov.
(m) 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 2020–0192, dated September 4,
2020.
(ii) [Reserved]
(3) For EASA AD 2020–0192, contact the
EASA, Konrad-Adenauer-Ufer 3, 50668
Cologne, Germany; telephone +49 221 8999
000; email ADs@easa.europa.eu; internet
www.easa.europa.eu. You may find this
EASA AD on the EASA website at https://
ad.easa.europa.eu.
(4) You may view this service information
at the FAA, Office of the Regional Counsel,
Southwest Region, 10101 Hillwood Pkwy.,
Room 6N–321, Fort Worth, TX 76177. For
information on the availability of this
material at the FAA, call 817–222–5110. This
material may be found in the AD docket on
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Federal Register / Vol. 86, No. 171 / Wednesday, September 8, 2021 / Rules and Regulations
the internet at https://www.regulations.gov
by searching for and locating Docket No.
FAA 2021–0607.
(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. 2021–19248 Filed 9–7–21; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE 4910–13–P
DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION
Federal Aviation Administration
14 CFR Part 39
[Docket No. FAA–2021–0380; Project
Identifier MCAI–2020–01683–R; Amendment
39–21672; AD 2021–16–10]
RIN 2120–AA64
Airworthiness Directives; Airbus
Helicopters Deutschland GmbH
Helicopters
Federal Aviation
Administration (FAA), DOT.
ACTION: Final rule.
AGENCY:
The FAA is adopting a new
airworthiness directive (AD) for certain
Airbus Helicopters Deutschland GmbH
Model EC135P1, EC135P2, EC135P2+,
EC135P3, EC135T1, EC135T2,
EC135T2+, and EC135T3 helicopters.
This AD was prompted by a report that
geometrical non-conformities were
found in the root section of the tail rotor
blade (TRB). This AD requires a onetime inspection (dimensional check) of
the TRB for conformity and, depending
on the findings, replacement of certain
affected parts, as specified in a
European Union Aviation Safety Agency
(EASA) AD, which is incorporated by
reference. This AD also prohibits
rework, repair, or modification of
affected parts in the affected area of the
TRB assembly root. The FAA is issuing
this AD to address the unsafe condition
on these products.
DATES: This AD is effective October 13,
2021.
The Director of the Federal Register
approved the incorporation by reference
of a certain publication listed in this AD
as of October 13, 2021.
ADDRESSES: For material incorporated
by reference (IBR) in this AD, contact
the EASA, Konrad-Adenauer-Ufer 3,
50668 Cologne, Germany; telephone +49
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SUMMARY:
VerDate Sep<11>2014
16:25 Sep 07, 2021
Jkt 253001
221 8999 000; email ADs@
easa.europa.eu; internet
www.easa.europa.eu. You may find this
IBR material on the EASA website at
https://ad.easa.europa.eu. You may
view this material at the FAA, Office of
the Regional Counsel, Southwest
Region, 10101 Hillwood Pkwy., Room
6N–321, Fort Worth, TX 76177. For
information on the availability of this
material at the FAA, call 817–222–5110.
It is also available in the AD docket on
the internet at https://
www.regulations.gov by searching for
and locating Docket No. FAA–2021–
0380.
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–
0380; or in person at Docket Operations
between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m., Monday
through Friday, except Federal holidays.
The AD docket contains this final rule,
any comments received, and other
information. The address for Docket
Operations is U.S. Department of
Transportation, Docket Operations,
M–30, West Building Ground Floor,
Room W12–140, 1200 New Jersey
Avenue SE, Washington, DC 20590.
FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT:
Andrea Jimenez, Aerospace Engineer,
COS Program Management Section,
Operational Safety Branch, Compliance
& Airworthiness Division, FAA, 1600
Stewart Ave., Mail Stop: Room 410,
Westbury, NY 11590; telephone 516–
228–7330; email andrea.jimenez@
faa.gov.
SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION:
Background
The EASA, which is the Technical
Agent for the Member States of the
European Union, has issued EASA AD
2020–0282, dated December 17, 2020
(EASA AD 2020–0282) (also referred to
as the Mandatory Continuing
Airworthiness Information, or the
MCAI), to correct an unsafe condition
for Airbus Helicopters Deutschland
GmbH Model EC135 P1, EC135 P2,
EC135 P2+, EC135 P3, EC135 T1, EC135
T2, EC135 T2+, EC135 T3, EC635 P2+,
EC635 P3, EC635 T1, EC635 T2+, and
EC635 T3 helicopters, all variants, all
serial numbers. Model EC635 P2+,
EC635 P3, EC635 T1, EC635 T2+, and
EC635 T3 helicopters are not
certificated by the FAA and are not
included on the U.S. type certificate
data sheet, except where the U.S. type
certificate data sheet explains that the
Model EC635T2+ helicopter having
serial number 0858 was converted from
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Model EC635T2+ to Model EC135T2+.
This AD, therefore, does not include
Model EC635 P2+, EC635 P3, EC635 T1,
EC635 T2+, and EC635 T3 helicopters in
the applicability.
Furthermore, although EASA AD
2020–0282 applies to all Model EC135
P1, EC135 P2, EC135 P2+, EC135 P3,
EC135 T1, EC135 T2, EC135 T2+, and
EC135 T3 helicopters, this AD applies to
helicopters with an affected part
installed instead.
The FAA issued a notice of proposed
rulemaking (NPRM) to amend 14 CFR
part 39 by adding an AD that would
apply to certain Airbus Helicopters
Deutschland GmbH Model EC135P1,
EC135P2, EC135P2+, EC135P3,
EC135T1, EC135T2, EC135T2+, and
EC135T3 helicopters. The NPRM
published in the Federal Register on
June 1, 2021 (86 FR 29216). The NPRM
was prompted by a report that during an
investigation related to an accident on
an Airbus Helicopters Model EC130B4
helicopter, geometrical nonconformities were observed in the TRB
root section. EASA issued AD 2020–
0187, dated August 21, 2020, to address
this issue on Model EC130B4 and
EC130T2 helicopters and the FAA
issued corresponding AD 2021–10–25,
Amendment 39–21558 (86 FR 29176,
June 1, 2021). The Airbus Helicopters
Deutschland GmbH Model EC135P1,
EC135P2, EC135P2+, EC135P3,
EC135T1, EC135T2, EC135T2+, and
EC135T3 helicopters have a similar
design and production requirements to
the affected Model EC130B4 helicopter,
and an inspection of the affected parts
detected geometrical non-conformities
in some instances. The NPRM proposed
to require a one-time inspection
(dimensional check) of the TRB for
conformity and, depending on the
findings, replacement of certain affected
parts, as specified in EASA AD 2020–
0282. The NPRM also proposed to
prohibit rework, repair, or modification
of affected parts in the affected area of
the TRB assembly root.
The FAA is issuing this AD to address
geometrical non-conformities in the
TRB root section, which could lead to
crack initiation and consequent blade
failure, resulting in loss of control of the
helicopter. See the MCAI for additional
background information.
Comments
The FAA gave the public the
opportunity to participate in developing
this final rule. The FAA received no
comments on the NPRM or on the
determination of the cost to the public.
E:\FR\FM\08SER1.SGM
08SER1
]]>Agencies
[Federal Register Volume 86, Number 171 (Wednesday, September 8, 2021)]
[Rules and Regulations]
[Pages 50239-50242]
From the Federal Register Online via the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]
[FR Doc No: 2021-19248]
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DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION
Federal Aviation Administration
14 CFR Part 39
[Docket No. FAA-2021-0607; Project Identifier MCAI-2020-01249-R;
Amendment 39-21666; AD 2021-16-04]
RIN 2120-AA64
Airworthiness Directives; Leonardo S.p.a. Helicopters
AGENCY: Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), DOT.
ACTION: Final rule; request for comments.
-----------------------------------------------------------------------
SUMMARY: The FAA is adopting a new airworthiness directive (AD) for all
Leonardo S.p.a. Model AB412 and AB412 EP helicopters. This AD was
prompted by a report of the failure of both inverters in-flight,
leading to an autopilot disconnection. This AD requires a one-time
inspection of the clearance between a certain protective grommet
installed in the emergency bus interlock compartment and the cable
assemblies passing through it, and depending on the finding, applicable
corrective actions, as specified in a European Union Aviation Safety
Agency (EASA) AD, which is incorporated by reference. The FAA is
issuing this AD to address the unsafe condition on these products.
DATES: This AD becomes effective September 23, 2021.
The Director of the Federal Register approved the incorporation by
reference of a certain publication listed in this AD as of September
23, 2021.
The FAA must receive comments on this AD by October 25, 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 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 IBR material on the EASA website
at https://ad.easa.europa.eu. You may view the EASA 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 the EASA material at the FAA, call (817) 222-5110. The
EASA material is also available at https://www.regulations.gov by
searching for and locating Docket FAA-2021-0607.
Examining the AD Docket
You may examine the AD docket at https://www.regulations.gov by
searching for and locating Docket No. FAA-2021-0607; 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, the EASA AD,
any comments received, and other information. The street address for
Docket Operations is listed above.
FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Jacob Fitch, Aerospace Engineer, COS
Program Management Section, Operational Safety Branch, Compliance &
Airworthiness Division, FAA, 10101 Hillwood Pkwy., Fort Worth, TX
76177; telephone (817) 222-4130; email [email protected].
SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION:
Background
The EASA, which is the Technical Agent for the Member States of the
European Union, has issued EASA AD 2020-0192, dated September 4, 2020
(EASA AD 2020-0192) (also referred to as the Mandatory Continuing
Airworthiness Information, or the MCAI), to correct an unsafe condition
for Leonardo S.p.a. (formerly AgustaWestland S.p.A., Agusta S.p.A., and
Costruzioni Aeronautiche Giovanni Agusta) Model AB412 and AB412 EP
helicopters, all serial numbers.
This AD was prompted by a report of the failure of both inverters
in-flight, leading to an autopilot disconnection. Subsequent inspection
identified
[[Page 50240]]
chafing of a wire in the alternating current (AC) power system cable
assembly, due to a protective grommet incorrectly installed in the
emergency bus interlock compartment. Insufficient clearance between a
protective grommet and the cable assemblies that pass through it could
result in chafing of the cable assemblies. The FAA is issuing this AD
to address incorrect installation of a protective grommet in the
emergency bus interlock compartment and chafed wiring in the AC power
system cable assembly. Chafed wiring in the AC power system cable
assembly, if not addressed, could lead to a short in the AC power
system, resulting in autopilot failure, possibly the loss of other
avionics systems, increased pilot workload, and reduced control of the
helicopter.
Related IBR Material Under 1 CFR Part 51
EASA AD 2020-0192 specifies procedures for a one-time inspection of
the clearance between a protective grommet installed in the emergency
bus interlock compartment and the cable assemblies passing through it,
and corrective actions. The corrective actions include replacing the
existing grommet with a new grommet, inspecting the cable assemblies
for damage (including chafing) and replacing affected cable assemblies,
and reworking the bulkhead in the emergency bus interlock compartment.
The rework of the bulkhead includes removing paint and primer,
reworking the lightening hole, deburring the hole, applying chemical
film protection, and priming all bare metal surfaces.
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.
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 FAA's bilateral agreement with the State of Design
Authority, the FAA has been notified of the unsafe condition described
in the MCAI referenced above. The FAA is issuing this AD after
evaluating all pertinent information and determining that the unsafe
condition exists and is likely to exist or develop on other products of
these same type designs.
Requirements of This AD
This AD requires accomplishing the actions specified in EASA AD
2020-0192, described previously, as incorporated by reference, except
for any differences identified as exceptions in the regulatory text of
this AD.
Explanation of Required Compliance Information
In the FAA's ongoing efforts to improve the efficiency of the AD
process, the FAA initially worked with Airbus and EASA to develop a
process to use certain EASA ADs as the primary source of information
for compliance with requirements for corresponding FAA ADs. The FAA has
since coordinated with other manufacturers and civil aviation
authorities (CAAs) to use this process. As a result, EASA AD 2020-0192
is incorporated by reference in this FAA final rule. This AD therefore,
requires compliance with EASA AD 2020-0192 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 the EASA AD 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 the
EASA AD. Service information specified in EASA AD 2020-0192 that is
required for compliance with EASA AD 2020-0192 is available on the
internet at https://www.regulations.gov by searching for and locating
Docket No. FAA-2021-0607.
FAA's Justification 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.
There are currently no domestic operators of these products.
Therefore, the FAA finds that notice and opportunity for prior public
comment are unnecessary pursuant to 5 U.S.C. 553(b)(3)(B). In addition,
for the foregoing reason, 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.
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-2021-0607; Project Identifier MCAI-
2020-01249-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 Jacob
Fitch, Aerospace Engineer, COS Program Management Section, Operational
Safety Branch, Compliance & Airworthiness Division, FAA, 10101 Hillwood
Pkwy., Fort Worth, TX 76177; telephone (817) 222-4130; 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
[[Page 50241]]
has good cause to adopt this rule without notice and comment, RFA
analysis is not required.
Costs of Compliance
There are no costs of compliance with this AD because there are no
helicopters with this type certificate on the U.S. Registry.
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 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 adding the following new airworthiness
directive:
2021-16-04 Leonardo S.p.a.: Amendment 39-21666; Docket No. FAA-2021-
0607; Project Identifier MCAI-2020-01249-R.
(a) Effective Date
This airworthiness directive (AD) becomes effective September
23, 2021.
(b) Affected ADs
None.
(c) Applicability
This AD applies to all Leonardo S.p.a. Model AB412 and AB412 EP
helicopters, certificated in any category.
(d) Subject
Joint Aircraft System Component (JASC) Code 2400, Electrical
Power System.
(e) Unsafe Condition
This AD was prompted by a report of the failure of both
inverters in-flight, leading to an autopilot disconnection.
Subsequent inspection identified chafing of a wire in the
alternating current (AC) power system cable assembly, due to a
protective grommet incorrectly installed in the emergency bus
interlock compartment. Insufficient clearance between a protective
grommet and the cable assemblies that pass through it could result
in damage (including chafing) to the cable assemblies. The FAA is
issuing this AD to address incorrect installation of a protective
grommet in the emergency bus interlock compartment and chafed wiring
in the AC power system cable assembly. Chafed wiring in the AC power
system cable assembly, if not addressed, could lead to a short in
the AC power system, resulting in autopilot failure, possibly the
loss of other avionics systems, increased pilot workload, and
reduced control of the helicopter.
(f) Compliance
Comply with this AD within the compliance times specified,
unless already done.
(g) Requirements
Except as specified in paragraph (h) of this AD: Comply with all
required actions and compliance times specified in, and in
accordance with, European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) AD
2020-0192, dated September 4, 2020 (EASA AD 2020-0192).
(h) Exceptions to EASA AD 2020-0192
(1) Where EASA AD 2020-0192 refers to its effective date, this
AD requires using the effective date of this AD.
(2) Where the service information referenced in EASA AD 2020-
0192 specifies to discard a certain part, this AD requires removing
that part from service.
(3) Where the service information referenced in EASA AD 2020-
0192 specifies to replace a certain part, this AD requires removing
that part from service.
(4) Where EASA AD 2020-0192 refers to flight hours (FH), this AD
requires using hours time-in-service.
(5) The ``Remarks'' section of EASA AD 2020-0192 does not apply
to this AD.
(6) Where paragraph (2) of EASA AD 2020-0192 refers to ``any
discrepancy'' for this AD, discrepancies include inadequate
clearance between the protective grommet and AC power system cable
assembly and damaged (chafed) AC power system cable assemblies.
(i) No Reporting Requirement
Although the service information referenced in EASA AD 2020-0192
specifies to submit certain information to the manufacturer, this AD
does not include that requirement.
(j) Special Flight Permit
Special flight permits, as described in 14 CFR 21.197 and
21.199, are prohibited.
(k) 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 (l) 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.
(l) Related Information
For more information about this AD, contact Jacob Fitch,
Aerospace Engineer, COS Program Management Section, Operational
Safety Branch, Compliance & Airworthiness Division, FAA, 10101
Hillwood Pkwy., Fort Worth, TX 76177; telephone (817) 222-4130;
email [email protected].
(m) 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 2020-0192,
dated September 4, 2020.
(ii) [Reserved]
(3) For EASA AD 2020-0192, contact the EASA, Konrad-Adenauer-
Ufer 3, 50668 Cologne, Germany; telephone +49 221 8999 000; email
[email protected]; internet www.easa.europa.eu. You may find this
EASA AD on the EASA website at https://ad.easa.europa.eu.
(4) You may view this service information at the FAA, Office of
the Regional Counsel, Southwest Region, 10101 Hillwood Pkwy., Room
6N-321, Fort Worth, TX 76177. For information on the availability of
this material at the FAA, call 817-222-5110. This material may be
found in the AD docket on
[[Page 50242]]
the internet at https://www.regulations.gov by searching for and
locating Docket No. FAA 2021-0607.
(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 July 21, 2021.
Gaetano A. Sciortino,
Deputy Director for Strategic Initiatives, Compliance & Airworthiness
Division, Aircraft Certification Service.
[FR Doc. 2021-19248 Filed 9-7-21; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE 4910-13-P
