Airworthiness Directives; Leonardo S.p.a. Helicopters, 50235-50237 [2021-19249]
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Federal Register / Vol. 86, No. 171 / Wednesday, September 8, 2021 / Rules and Regulations
DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION
Federal Aviation Administration
14 CFR Part 39
[Docket No. FAA–2021–0383; Project
Identifier 2018–SW–005–AD; Amendment
39–21671; AD 2021–16–09]
Examining the AD Docket
RIN 2120–AA64
Airworthiness Directives; Leonardo
S.p.a. Helicopters
Federal Aviation
Administration (FAA), DOT.
ACTION: Final rule.
AGENCY:
The FAA is adopting a new
airworthiness directive (AD) for certain
Leonardo S.p.a. Model AW189
helicopters. This AD was prompted by
corrosion on the inlet check valve banjo
fitting of emergency flotation system
(EFS) float assemblies. This AD requires
visually inspecting each banjo fitting
installed on an affected EFS float
assembly, and depending on the results,
removing the banjo fitting from service.
This AD also requires applying
corrosion inhibiting compound and
prohibits installing an affected EFS float
assembly unless certain requirements
have been accomplished 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 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
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 Aero Sekur and
Leonardo Helicopters service
information identified in this final rule,
contact Leonardo S.p.A. Helicopters,
Emanuele Bufano, Head of
Airworthiness, Viale G.Agusta 520,
21017 C.Costa di Samarate (Va) Italy;
telephone +39–0331–225074; fax +39–
0331–229046; or at https://
customerportal.leonardocompany.com/
en-US/. 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
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SUMMARY:
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availability of this material at the FAA,
call (817) 222–5110. It is also available
in the AD docket at https://
www.regulations.gov by searching for
and locating Docket No. FAA–2021–
0383.
You may examine the AD docket at
https://www.regulations.gov by
searching for and locating Docket No.
FAA–2021–0383; 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:
Kristi Bradley, Program Manager, COS
Program Management Section,
Operational Safety Branch, Compliance
& Airworthiness Division, FAA, 10101
Hillwood Pkwy., Fort Worth, TX 76177;
telephone (817) 222–5110; email
kristin.bradley@faa.gov.
SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION:
Background
EASA, which is the Technical Agent
for the Member States of the European
Union, has issued a series of ADs, the
most recent being EASA AD 2018–0006,
dated January 10, 2018 (EASA AD
2018–0006), to correct an unsafe
condition for Leonardo S.p.A.
Helicopters (formerly Finmeccanica
S.p.A., AgustaWestland S.p.A.) Model
AW189 helicopters with certain partnumbered and serial-numbered Aero
Sekur EFS float assemblies installed,
except those float assemblies marked
with SB–189–25–004. EASA initially
issued EASA AD 2017–0256, dated
December 22, 2017 (EASA AD 2017–
0256), to address the unsafe condition.
EASA issued EASA AD 2018–0006 to
supersede EASA AD 2017–0256 to
revise the compliance time based on the
EFS float assembly condition.
The FAA issued a notice of proposed
rulemaking (NPRM) to amend 14 CFR
part 39 by adding an AD that would
apply to certain Leonardo S.p.a. Model
AW189 helicopters. The NPRM
published in the Federal Register on
May 28, 2021 (86 FR 28714). The NPRM
was prompted by corrosion on the inlet
check valve banjo fitting of EFS float
assemblies. The NPRM proposed to
require visually inspecting each banjo
fitting installed on an affected EFS float
assembly, and depending on the results,
removing the banjo fitting from service.
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50235
The NPRM also proposed to require
applying corrosion inhibiting
compound to each banjo fitting installed
on an affected EFS float assembly and
prohibit installing an affected EFS float
assembly unless the banjo fitting
inspection, banjo fitting replacement,
and corrosion inhibiting compound
application requirements have been
accomplished, as specified in an EASA
AD.
The FAA is issuing this AD to prevent
reduced inflation of an EFS float. The
unsafe condition, if not addressed,
could affect the helicopter’s buoyancy
during an emergency landing on water.
See EASA AD 2018–0006 for additional
background information.
Discussion of Final Airworthiness
Directive
Comments
The FAA gave the public the
opportunity to participate in developing
this final rule. The FAA received no
comments on the NPRM or on the
determination of the cost to the public.
Conclusion
The FAA reviewed the relevant data
and determined that air safety and the
public interest require adopting this
final rule as proposed.
Related Service Information Under 1
CFR Part 51
EASA AD 2018–0006 requires
visually inspecting the banjo fittings
installed on an affected EFS float
assembly. If there is corrosion on a
banjo fitting, EASA AD 2018–0006
requires replacing the banjo fitting.
EASA AD 2018–0006 also requires
applying corrosion inhibiting
compound to each banjo fitting installed
on an affected EFS float assembly.
EASA AD 2018–0006 prohibits
installing an affected EFS float assembly
unless the banjo fitting inspection, banjo
fitting replacement, and corrosion
inhibiting compound application
requirements have been accomplished.
EASA AD 2018–0006 also allows credit
for actions accomplished previously
with a prior revision of the Leonardo
Helicopters service information.
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.
Other Related Service Information
The FAA reviewed Leonardo
Helicopters Alert Service Bulletin No.
189–174, original issue, dated December
22, 2017 (ASB 189–174 original issue),
and Revision A, dated January 5, 2018
(ASB 189–174 Rev A). The FAA also
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50236
Federal Register / Vol. 86, No. 171 / Wednesday, September 8, 2021 / Rules and Regulations
reviewed Aero Sekur Service Bulletin
SB–189–25–004, original issue, dated
November 22, 2017 (SB–189–25–004),
which is attached as Annex A to ASB
189–174 original issue and ASB 189–
174 Rev A.
ASB 189–174 Rev A and ASB 189–
174 original issue specify the same
procedures, except the compliance time
specified by ASB 189–174 Rev A has
been revised by adding affected EFS
float assemblies that have been
inspected using procedures in the
maintenance manual within the
previous 12 months. ASB 189–174
original issue and ASB 189–174 Rev A
specify accomplishing the Visual
Inspection and Corrosion Prevention,
and Record Instruction procedures
specified in SB–189–25–004. ASB 189–
174 original issue and ASB 189–174 Rev
A also specify emailing photographical
evidence of each corroded banjo fitting
to Leonardo Helicopters PSE Division
and returning replaced banjo fittings to
Leonardo Helicopters Customer Support
Division.
SB–189–25–004 specifies procedures
for cleaning and visually inspecting
each banjo fitting for evidence of
corrosion. If there is corrosion, SB–189–
25–004 specifies procedures for
discarding the banjo fitting and its Orings, and installing a new banjo fitting.
SB–189–25–004 also specifies
procedures for applying corrosion
inhibiting compound (JC5A or Mastinox
6856) on all banjo fittings. When SB–
189–25–004 is accomplished, SB–189–
25–004 specifies procedures for marking
the identification label of the EFS float
assembly.
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Differences Between This AD and the
EASA AD
EASA AD 2018–0006 requires
returning and discarding certain parts,
whereas this AD requires removing
those parts from service instead.
Costs of Compliance
The FAA estimates that this AD
affects 4 helicopters of U.S. Registry.
Labor rates are estimated at $85 per
work-hour. Based on these numbers, the
FAA estimates the following costs to
comply with this AD.
Inspecting the banjo fittings takes
about 8.5 work-hours for an estimated
cost of $723 per helicopter and $2,892
for the U.S. fleet. Applying corrosion
inhibiting compound takes about 1.5
work-hours for an estimated cost of
$128 per helicopter and $512 for the
U.S. fleet. If required, replacing a banjo
fitting takes a minimal additional
amount of time after inspecting it and
parts cost about $550 for an estimated
cost of $550 per helicopter.
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Jkt 253001
Authority for This Rulemaking
Title 49 of the United States Code
specifies the FAA’s authority to issue
rules on aviation safety. Subtitle I,
section 106, describes the authority of
the FAA Administrator. Subtitle VII:
Aviation Programs, describes in more
detail the scope of the Agency’s
authority.
The FAA is issuing this rulemaking
under the authority described in
Subtitle VII, Part A, Subpart III, Section
44701: General requirements. Under
that section, Congress charges the FAA
with promoting safe flight of civil
aircraft in air commerce by prescribing
regulations for practices, methods, and
procedures the Administrator finds
necessary for safety in air commerce.
This regulation is within the scope of
that authority because it addresses an
unsafe condition that is likely to exist or
develop on products identified in this
rulemaking action.
Regulatory Findings
This AD will not have federalism
implications under Executive Order
13132. This AD will not have a
substantial direct effect on the States, on
the relationship between the national
government and the States, or on the
distribution of power and
responsibilities among the various
levels of government.
For the reasons discussed above, I
certify that this AD:
(1) Is not a ‘‘significant regulatory
action’’ under Executive Order 12866,
(2) Will not affect intrastate aviation
in Alaska, and
(3) Will not have a significant
economic impact, positive or negative,
on a substantial number of small entities
under the criteria of the Regulatory
Flexibility Act.
List of Subjects in 14 CFR Part 39
Air transportation, Aircraft, Aviation
safety, Incorporation by reference,
Safety.
The Amendment
Accordingly, under the authority
delegated to me by the Administrator,
the FAA amends 14 CFR part 39 as
follows:
PART 39—AIRWORTHINESS
DIRECTIVES
1. The authority citation for part 39
continues to read as follows:
■
Authority: 49 U.S.C. 106(g), 40113, 44701.
§ 39.13
[Amended]
2. The FAA amends § 39.13 by adding
the following new airworthiness
directive:
■
PO 00000
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Fmt 4700
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2021–16–09 Leonardo S.p.a.: Amendment
39–21671; Docket No. FAA–2021–0383;
Project Identifier 2018–SW–005–AD.
(a) Effective Date
This airworthiness directive (AD) is
effective October 13, 2021.
(b) Affected ADs
None.
(c) Applicability
This AD applies to Leonardo S.p.a. Model
AW189 helicopters, certificated in any
category, as identified in European Aviation
Safety Agency (now European Union
Aviation Safety Agency) (EASA) AD 2018–
0006, dated January 10, 2018 (EASA AD
2018–0006).
(d) Subject
Joint Aircraft Service Component (JASC)
Code: 3212, Emergency Flotation Section.
(e) Unsafe Condition
This AD was prompted by corrosion on the
inlet check valve banjo fitting of emergency
flotation system (EFS) float assemblies. The
FAA is issuing this AD to prevent reduced
inflation of an EFS float. The unsafe
condition, if not addressed, could affect the
helicopter’s buoyancy during an emergency
landing on water.
(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 2018–0006.
(h) Exceptions to EASA AD 2018–0006
(1) Where EASA AD 2018–0006 refers to
December 29, 2017 (the effective date of
EASA AD 2017–0256, dated December 22,
2017), this AD requires using the effective
date of this AD.
(2) Where the service information
referenced in EASA AD 2018–0006 specifies
to return a certain part, this AD requires
removing that part from service.
(3) Where the service information
referenced in EASA AD 2018–0006 specifies
to discard certain parts, this AD requires
removing those parts from service.
(4) The ‘‘Remarks’’ section of EASA AD
2018–0006 does not apply to this AD.
(i) No Reporting Requirement
Although the service information
referenced in EASA AD 2018–0006 specifies
to submit certain information to the
manufacturer, this AD does not include that
requirement.
(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
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Federal Register / Vol. 86, No. 171 / Wednesday, September 8, 2021 / Rules and Regulations
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
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VerDate Sep<11>2014
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Jkt 253001
[Docket No. FAA–2021–0377; Project
Identifier MCAI–2021–00380–R; Amendment
39–21674; AD 2021–16–12]
RIN 2120–AA64
Airworthiness Directives; Bell Textron
Canada Limited Helicopters
Examining the AD Docket
You may examine the AD docket at
https://www.regulations.gov by
searching for and locating Docket No.
FAA–2021–0377; or in person at Docket
Operations between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m.,
Monday through Friday, except Federal
holidays. The AD docket contains this
final rule, the Transport Canada AD, any
comments received, and other
information. The street address for
Frm 00025
Fmt 4700
Sfmt 4700
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.
FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT:
Background
The FAA is adopting a new
airworthiness directive (AD) for certain
Bell Textron Canada Limited Model 505
helicopters. This AD was prompted by
three occurrences of metallic debris in
the engine oil lubrication system
causing the 12 volts direct current
(VDC) reference voltage to be shorted to
ground and loss of important flight
information to the pilot. This AD
requires replacing a certain partnumbered relay panel assembly. 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 document listed in this AD
as of October 13, 2021.
ADDRESSES: For service information
identified in this final rule, 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. You may view the
referenced service information at the
FAA, Office of the Regional Counsel,
Southwest Region, 10101 Hillwood
Pkwy., Room 6N–321, Fort Worth, TX
76177. For information on the
availability of this material at the FAA,
call (817) 222–5110. It is also available
at https://www.regulations.gov by
searching for and locating Docket No.
FAA–2021–0377.
PO 00000
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.
SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION:
SUMMARY:
(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 Aviation Safety Agency
(EASA) AD 2018–0006, dated January 10,
2018.
(ii) [Reserved]
(3) For EASA AD 2018–0006, 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
at https://www.regulations.gov by searching
for and locating Docket No. FAA–2021–0383.
(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.
BILLING CODE 4910–13–P
14 CFR Part 39
Federal Aviation
Administration (FAA), DOT.
ACTION: Final rule.
(l) Material Incorporated by Reference
[FR Doc. 2021–19249 Filed 9–7–21; 8:45 am]
Federal Aviation Administration
AGENCY:
For more information about this AD,
contact Kristi Bradley, Program Manager,
COS Program Management Section,
Operational Safety Branch, Compliance &
Airworthiness Division, FAA, 10101
Hillwood Pkwy., Fort Worth, TX 76177;
telephone (817) 222–5110; email
kristin.bradley@faa.gov.
Issued on July 26, 2021.
Lance T. Gant,
Director, Compliance & Airworthiness
Division, Aircraft Certification Service.
DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION
50237
The FAA issued a notice of proposed
rulemaking (NPRM) to amend 14 CFR
part 39 by adding an AD that would
apply to Bell Textron Canada Limited
Model 505 helicopters, with serial
numbers 65011 through 65023
inclusive, 65025 through 65028
inclusive, 65030 through 65032
inclusive, 65034, and 65036 with relay
panel assembly part number (P/N) SLS–
075–002–107 installed. The NPRM
published in the Federal Register on
May 25, 2021 (86 FR 28038). In the
NPRM, the FAA proposed to require
replacing relay panel assembly part
number P/N SLS–075–002–107 with
relay panel assembly P/N SLS–075–
002–109. The NPRM also proposed to
prohibit installing relay panel assembly
P/N SLS–075–002–107 on any
helicopter. The NPRM was prompted by
Canadian AD CF–2017–36, dated
December 15, 2017 (Canadian AD CF–
2017–36), issued by Transport Canada,
which is the aviation authority for
Canada, to correct an unsafe condition
for Bell Helicopter Textron Canada
Limited (BHTCL) (now Bell Textron
Canada Limited) Model 505 helicopters
serial numbers 65011 through 65023,
65025 through 65028, 65030 through
65032, 65034, and 65036. Transport
Canada advises of three occurrences of
metallic debris in the engine oil
lubrication system of the Model 505
helicopter causing the Garmin Engine
Airframe (GEA) 12 VDC reference
voltage to be shorted to ground. This
short to ground results in loss of display
of important flight information
including the main rotor rotations per
minute (Nr), fuel quantity, and
transmission oil pressure and
temperature, and the generator voltage
and ammeter parameters are marked
invalid with a red ‘‘X’’ on the primary
flight display (PFD) and the multifunction display (MFD). This condition,
if not addressed, could result in loss of
caution, advisory, and system
performance indications for multiple
helicopter systems, particularly when
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]]>Agencies
[Federal Register Volume 86, Number 171 (Wednesday, September 8, 2021)]
[Rules and Regulations]
[Pages 50235-50237]
From the Federal Register Online via the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]
[FR Doc No: 2021-19249]
[[Page 50235]]
-----------------------------------------------------------------------
DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION
Federal Aviation Administration
14 CFR Part 39
[Docket No. FAA-2021-0383; Project Identifier 2018-SW-005-AD; Amendment
39-21671; AD 2021-16-09]
RIN 2120-AA64
Airworthiness Directives; Leonardo S.p.a. Helicopters
AGENCY: Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), DOT.
ACTION: Final rule.
-----------------------------------------------------------------------
SUMMARY: The FAA is adopting a new airworthiness directive (AD) for
certain Leonardo S.p.a. Model AW189 helicopters. This AD was prompted
by corrosion on the inlet check valve banjo fitting of emergency
flotation system (EFS) float assemblies. This AD requires visually
inspecting each banjo fitting installed on an affected EFS float
assembly, and depending on the results, removing the banjo fitting from
service. This AD also requires applying corrosion inhibiting compound
and prohibits installing an affected EFS float assembly unless certain
requirements have been accomplished 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 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 +49 221 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 Aero Sekur and Leonardo Helicopters
service information identified in this final rule, contact Leonardo
S.p.A. Helicopters, Emanuele Bufano, Head of Airworthiness, Viale
G.Agusta 520, 21017 C.Costa di Samarate (Va) Italy; telephone +39-0331-
225074; fax +39-0331-229046; or at https://customerportal.leonardocompany.com/en-US/. 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 at https://www.regulations.gov by
searching for and locating Docket No. FAA-2021-0383.
Examining the AD Docket
You may examine the AD docket at https://www.regulations.gov by
searching for and locating Docket No. FAA-2021-0383; 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: Kristi Bradley, Program Manager, COS
Program Management Section, Operational Safety Branch, Compliance &
Airworthiness Division, FAA, 10101 Hillwood Pkwy., Fort Worth, TX
76177; telephone (817) 222-5110; email [email protected].
SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION:
Background
EASA, which is the Technical Agent for the Member States of the
European Union, has issued a series of ADs, the most recent being EASA
AD 2018-0006, dated January 10, 2018 (EASA AD 2018-0006), to correct an
unsafe condition for Leonardo S.p.A. Helicopters (formerly Finmeccanica
S.p.A., AgustaWestland S.p.A.) Model AW189 helicopters with certain
part-numbered and serial-numbered Aero Sekur EFS float assemblies
installed, except those float assemblies marked with SB-189-25-004.
EASA initially issued EASA AD 2017-0256, dated December 22, 2017 (EASA
AD 2017-0256), to address the unsafe condition. EASA issued EASA AD
2018-0006 to supersede EASA AD 2017-0256 to revise the compliance time
based on the EFS float assembly condition.
The FAA issued a notice of proposed rulemaking (NPRM) to amend 14
CFR part 39 by adding an AD that would apply to certain Leonardo S.p.a.
Model AW189 helicopters. The NPRM published in the Federal Register on
May 28, 2021 (86 FR 28714). The NPRM was prompted by corrosion on the
inlet check valve banjo fitting of EFS float assemblies. The NPRM
proposed to require visually inspecting each banjo fitting installed on
an affected EFS float assembly, and depending on the results, removing
the banjo fitting from service. The NPRM also proposed to require
applying corrosion inhibiting compound to each banjo fitting installed
on an affected EFS float assembly and prohibit installing an affected
EFS float assembly unless the banjo fitting inspection, banjo fitting
replacement, and corrosion inhibiting compound application requirements
have been accomplished, as specified in an EASA AD.
The FAA is issuing this AD to prevent reduced inflation of an EFS
float. The unsafe condition, if not addressed, could affect the
helicopter's buoyancy during an emergency landing on water. See EASA AD
2018-0006 for additional background information.
Discussion of Final Airworthiness Directive
Comments
The FAA gave the public the opportunity to participate in
developing this final rule. The FAA received no comments on the NPRM or
on the determination of the cost to the public.
Conclusion
The FAA reviewed the relevant data and determined that air safety
and the public interest require adopting this final rule as proposed.
Related Service Information Under 1 CFR Part 51
EASA AD 2018-0006 requires visually inspecting the banjo fittings
installed on an affected EFS float assembly. If there is corrosion on a
banjo fitting, EASA AD 2018-0006 requires replacing the banjo fitting.
EASA AD 2018-0006 also requires applying corrosion inhibiting compound
to each banjo fitting installed on an affected EFS float assembly. EASA
AD 2018-0006 prohibits installing an affected EFS float assembly unless
the banjo fitting inspection, banjo fitting replacement, and corrosion
inhibiting compound application requirements have been accomplished.
EASA AD 2018-0006 also allows credit for actions accomplished
previously with a prior revision of the Leonardo Helicopters service
information.
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.
Other Related Service Information
The FAA reviewed Leonardo Helicopters Alert Service Bulletin No.
189-174, original issue, dated December 22, 2017 (ASB 189-174 original
issue), and Revision A, dated January 5, 2018 (ASB 189-174 Rev A). The
FAA also
[[Page 50236]]
reviewed Aero Sekur Service Bulletin SB-189-25-004, original issue,
dated November 22, 2017 (SB-189-25-004), which is attached as Annex A
to ASB 189-174 original issue and ASB 189-174 Rev A.
ASB 189-174 Rev A and ASB 189-174 original issue specify the same
procedures, except the compliance time specified by ASB 189-174 Rev A
has been revised by adding affected EFS float assemblies that have been
inspected using procedures in the maintenance manual within the
previous 12 months. ASB 189-174 original issue and ASB 189-174 Rev A
specify accomplishing the Visual Inspection and Corrosion Prevention,
and Record Instruction procedures specified in SB-189-25-004. ASB 189-
174 original issue and ASB 189-174 Rev A also specify emailing
photographical evidence of each corroded banjo fitting to Leonardo
Helicopters PSE Division and returning replaced banjo fittings to
Leonardo Helicopters Customer Support Division.
SB-189-25-004 specifies procedures for cleaning and visually
inspecting each banjo fitting for evidence of corrosion. If there is
corrosion, SB-189-25-004 specifies procedures for discarding the banjo
fitting and its O-rings, and installing a new banjo fitting. SB-189-25-
004 also specifies procedures for applying corrosion inhibiting
compound (JC5A or Mastinox 6856) on all banjo fittings. When SB-189-25-
004 is accomplished, SB-189-25-004 specifies procedures for marking the
identification label of the EFS float assembly.
Differences Between This AD and the EASA AD
EASA AD 2018-0006 requires returning and discarding certain parts,
whereas this AD requires removing those parts from service instead.
Costs of Compliance
The FAA estimates that this AD affects 4 helicopters of U.S.
Registry. Labor rates are estimated at $85 per work-hour. Based on
these numbers, the FAA estimates the following costs to comply with
this AD.
Inspecting the banjo fittings takes about 8.5 work-hours for an
estimated cost of $723 per helicopter and $2,892 for the U.S. fleet.
Applying corrosion inhibiting compound takes about 1.5 work-hours for
an estimated cost of $128 per helicopter and $512 for the U.S. fleet.
If required, replacing a banjo fitting takes a minimal additional
amount of time after inspecting it and parts cost about $550 for an
estimated cost of $550 per helicopter.
Authority for This Rulemaking
Title 49 of the United States Code specifies the FAA's authority to
issue rules on aviation safety. Subtitle I, section 106, describes the
authority of the FAA Administrator. Subtitle VII: Aviation Programs,
describes in more detail the scope of the Agency's authority.
The FAA is issuing this rulemaking under the authority described in
Subtitle VII, Part A, Subpart III, Section 44701: General requirements.
Under that section, Congress charges the FAA with promoting safe flight
of civil aircraft in air commerce by prescribing regulations for
practices, methods, and procedures the Administrator finds necessary
for safety in air commerce. This regulation is within the scope of that
authority because it addresses an unsafe condition that is likely to
exist or develop on products identified in this rulemaking action.
Regulatory Findings
This AD will not have federalism implications under Executive Order
13132. This AD will not have a substantial direct effect on the States,
on the relationship between the national government and the States, or
on the distribution of power and responsibilities among the various
levels of government.
For the reasons discussed above, I certify that this AD:
(1) Is not a ``significant regulatory action'' under Executive
Order 12866,
(2) Will not affect intrastate aviation in Alaska, and
(3) Will not have a significant economic impact, positive or
negative, on a substantial number of small entities under the criteria
of the Regulatory Flexibility Act.
List of Subjects in 14 CFR Part 39
Air transportation, Aircraft, Aviation safety, Incorporation by
reference, Safety.
The Amendment
Accordingly, under the authority delegated to me by the
Administrator, the FAA amends 14 CFR part 39 as follows:
PART 39--AIRWORTHINESS DIRECTIVES
0
1. The authority citation for part 39 continues to read as follows:
Authority: 49 U.S.C. 106(g), 40113, 44701.
Sec. 39.13 [Amended]
0
2. The FAA amends Sec. 39.13 by adding the following new airworthiness
directive:
2021-16-09 Leonardo S.p.a.: Amendment 39-21671; Docket No. FAA-2021-
0383; Project Identifier 2018-SW-005-AD.
(a) Effective Date
This airworthiness directive (AD) is effective October 13, 2021.
(b) Affected ADs
None.
(c) Applicability
This AD applies to Leonardo S.p.a. Model AW189 helicopters,
certificated in any category, as identified in European Aviation
Safety Agency (now European Union Aviation Safety Agency) (EASA) AD
2018-0006, dated January 10, 2018 (EASA AD 2018-0006).
(d) Subject
Joint Aircraft Service Component (JASC) Code: 3212, Emergency
Flotation Section.
(e) Unsafe Condition
This AD was prompted by corrosion on the inlet check valve banjo
fitting of emergency flotation system (EFS) float assemblies. The
FAA is issuing this AD to prevent reduced inflation of an EFS float.
The unsafe condition, if not addressed, could affect the
helicopter's buoyancy during an emergency landing on water.
(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 2018-0006.
(h) Exceptions to EASA AD 2018-0006
(1) Where EASA AD 2018-0006 refers to December 29, 2017 (the
effective date of EASA AD 2017-0256, dated December 22, 2017), this
AD requires using the effective date of this AD.
(2) Where the service information referenced in EASA AD 2018-
0006 specifies to return a certain part, this AD requires removing
that part from service.
(3) Where the service information referenced in EASA AD 2018-
0006 specifies to discard certain parts, this AD requires removing
those parts from service.
(4) The ``Remarks'' section of EASA AD 2018-0006 does not apply
to this AD.
(i) No Reporting Requirement
Although the service information referenced in EASA AD 2018-0006
specifies to submit certain information to the manufacturer, this AD
does not include that requirement.
(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
[[Page 50237]]
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 Kristi Bradley,
Program Manager, COS Program Management Section, Operational Safety
Branch, Compliance & Airworthiness Division, FAA, 10101 Hillwood
Pkwy., Fort Worth, TX 76177; telephone (817) 222-5110; 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.
(i) European Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) AD 2018-0006, dated
January 10, 2018.
(ii) [Reserved]
(3) For EASA AD 2018-0006, 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 at https://www.regulations.gov by searching
for and locating Docket No. FAA-2021-0383.
(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 26, 2021.
Lance T. Gant,
Director, Compliance & Airworthiness Division, Aircraft Certification
Service.
[FR Doc. 2021-19249 Filed 9-7-21; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE 4910-13-P
