Airworthiness Directives; Sikorsky Aircraft Corporation Helicopters, 57555-57558 [2021-22464]
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Federal Register / Vol. 86, No. 198 / Monday, October 18, 2021 / Rules and Regulations
(c) Applicability
This AD applies to all Airbus SAS Model
A330–841 and A330–941 airplanes,
certificated in any category.
(d) Subject
Air Transport Association (ATA) of
America Code 34, Navigation.
(e) Unsafe Condition
This AD was prompted by a report of
incorrect take-off computations for
crosswinds above 20 knots. The FAA is
issuing this AD to address substantially
reduced take-off performance in crosswind
conditions above 20 knots, possibly resulting
in a runway overrun, in the event of
continued takeoff following an engine failure
or rejected takeoff, with consequent damage
to the airplane and injury to occupants.
(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 2021–0210, dated
September 16, 2021 (EASA AD 2021–0210).
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(h) Exceptions to EASA AD 2021–0210
(1) Where EASA AD 2021–0210 refers to its
effective date, this AD requires using the
effective date of this AD.
(2) Where paragraph (1) of EASA AD 2021–
0210 specifies amending the aircraft flight
manual (AFM), this AD requires replacing
the text ‘‘implement the aircraft performance
database by introducing the AFM DU
[Documentary Unit]’’ with ‘‘amend the
applicable existing AFM and applicable
corresponding operational procedures by
incorporating the AFM DU.’’
(3) Whereas paragraph (1) of EASA AD
2021–0210 specifies to ‘‘inform all flight
crews, and, thereafter, operate the aeroplane
accordingly,’’ this AD does not require those
actions as those actions are already required
by existing FAA operating regulations.
(4) The ‘‘Remarks’’ section of EASA AD
2021–0210 does not apply to this AD.
(i) Additional 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
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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 Vladimir Ulyanov, Aerospace
Engineer, Large Aircraft Section, FAA,
International Validation Branch, 2200 South
216th St., Des Moines, WA 98198; telephone
and fax 206–231–3229; email
vladimir.ulyanov@faa.gov.
(k) 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 this AD specifies otherwise.
(i) European Union Aviation Safety Agency
(EASA) AD 2021–0210, dated September 16,
2021.
(ii) [Reserved]
(3) For EASA AD 2021–0210, 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
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.
(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.
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Issued on October 7, 2021.
Lance T. Gant,
Director, Compliance & Airworthiness
Division, Aircraft Certification Service.
[FR Doc. 2021–22633 Filed 10–14–21; 11:15 am]
BILLING CODE 4910–13–P
DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION
Federal Aviation Administration
14 CFR Part 39
[Docket No. FAA–2021–0106; Project
Identifier AD–2020–00708–R; Amendment
39–21735; AD 2021–19–17]
RIN 2120–AA64
Airworthiness Directives; Sikorsky
Aircraft Corporation Helicopters
Federal Aviation
Administration (FAA), DOT.
ACTION: Final rule.
AGENCY:
The FAA is adopting a new
airworthiness directive (AD) for certain
Sikorsky Aircraft Corporation (Sikorsky)
Model S–92A helicopters. This AD was
prompted by an incident of a side facing
utility seat detaching from wall
attachment points. This AD requires
modifying certain side facing utility
seats and observer seats, and prohibits
installing those seats unless the
modification has been accomplished.
The FAA is issuing this AD to address
the unsafe condition on these products.
DATES: This AD is effective November
22, 2021.
The Director of the Federal Register
approved the incorporation by reference
of certain publications listed in this AD
as of November 22, 2021.
ADDRESSES: For Martin-Baker and
Sikorsky service information identified
in this final rule, contact your local
Sikorsky Field Representative or
Sikorsky’s Service Engineering Group at
Sikorsky Aircraft Corporation, Mailstop
K100, 124 Quarry Road, Trumbull, CT
06611; telephone 1–800–946–4337 (1–
800–Winged–S); email wcs_cust_
service_eng.gr-sik@lmco.com. Operators
may also log on to the Sikorsky 360
website at https://
www.sikorsky360.com. You may view
this service information at the FAA,
Office of the Regional Counsel,
Southwest Region, 10101 Hillwood
Pkwy., Room 6N–321, Fort Worth, TX
76177. For information on the
availability of this material at the FAA,
call (817) 222–5110. It is also available
at https://www.regulations.gov by
searching for and locating Docket No.
FAA–2021–0106.
SUMMARY:
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Examining the AD Docket
You may examine the AD docket at
https://www.regulations.gov by
searching for and locating Docket No.
FAA–2021–0106; 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:
Dorie Resnik, Aerospace Engineer,
Aviation Safety Section, Boston ACO
Branch, FAA, 1200 District Ave.,
Burlington, MA 01803; phone: (781)
238–7693; email: dorie.resnik@faa.gov.
SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION:
Background
The FAA issued a notice of proposed
rulemaking (NPRM) to amend 14 CFR
part 39 by adding an AD that would
apply to Sikorsky Model S–92A
helicopters with certain Martin-Baker
side facing utility or observer seats
installed. The NPRM published in the
Federal Register on March 4, 2021 (86
FR 12550). The NPRM was prompted by
an incident of a side facing utility seat
detaching from wall attachment points
during dynamic testing. The root cause
has been identified as a change in the
finishing process of the main back tube.
Due to design similarity, certain
observer seats are also subject to this
unsafe condition. In the NPRM, the FAA
proposed to require replacing the main
back tube assembly in affected side
facing utility and observer seats. The
NPRM also proposed to prohibit
installing those seats unless the main
back tube assembly has been replaced.
The FAA is issuing this AD to address
the unsafe condition on these products.
Discussion of Final Airworthiness
Directive
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Comments
The FAA received comments from
two commenters. One commenter
supported the NPRM without change.
Sikorsky also commented on the NPRM.
The following presents the comments
received on the NPRM and the FAA’s
response to each comment.
Request To Change the AD to an
Appliance AD Against Martin-Baker
Seats
Sikorsky requested changes
throughout the proposed AD to change
it from an aircraft AD against Sikorsky
to an appliance AD against Martin-
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Baker. Sikorsky stated that the defect is
in Martin-Baker technical standard
order (TSO) authorization seats and is
not a defect of the Sikorsky Model S–
92A helicopter, and that the seats sold
to Sikorsky are manufactured under
TSO–C39b (side facing utility seat) and
TSO–C127a (observer seat)
qualifications and are supplied with a
TSO–C39b or TSO–C127a tag, as
applicable. Sikorsky stated that the
background of the AD should provide
the result of the FAA’s review with
Martin-Baker Aircraft. According to
Sikorsky, Martin-Baker indicated that
seats for Sikorsky platforms are tracked
separately from other platforms; and
accordingly, the AD should be issued
against affected Martin-Baker seats to
ensure all affected parts (Martin-Baker
seat tube part number (P/N) MBCS4109
and/or seat P/Ns MBCS12410AA001,
MBCS12200, MBCS7301–2, and other
P/Ns as identified by Martin-Baker) are
corrected. Sikorsky further stated that
during the review in support of the
issuance of Sikorsky S–92A Helicopter
Alert Service Bulletin ASB 92–25–026,
Basic Issue, dated March 5, 2020 (ASB
92–25–026), Martin Baker Aircraft
Company indicated that over 1,000
fielded seats are affected by the defect
and that Sikorsky purchased 371 of the
affected seats for the Model S–92A
helicopter. Sikorsky stated that it issued
ASB 92–25–026 to ensure its operators
implemented the repairs specified in
Martin-Baker Special Information
Leaflet (SIL) No. 831, dated July 10,
2019 (SIL 831), and SIL No. 833, dated
July 11, 2019 (SIL 833). Additionally,
Sikorsky explained that ASB 92–25–026
identifies Model S–92A helicopters with
certain serial numbers (S/Ns) in its
Effectivity paragraph because that was
the known span at the time of its
issuance; however, the AD should be
against the seats because the seats can
be moved from one serial-numbered
aircraft to another serial-numbered
aircraft and because the required change
is to the articles.
The FAA disagrees. The FAA has
confirmed that the manufacturing defect
of Martin-Baker side facing utility seats
supplier P/N MBCS12410AA001 did not
cause non-compliance with TSO–C39b
Aircraft Seats and Berths. The unsafe
condition does not exist in those seats,
it resulted from the installation of those
seats in Sikorsky Model S–92A
helicopters. In this situation, it became
Sikorsky’s responsibility to show
compliance with 14 CFR 29.562 at
Amendment 29–41 for the installed seat
because this is part of the certification
basis of the aircraft as defined in FAA
Type Certificate No. R00024BO. Even
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though the seat is TSO–C39b qualified,
the seat installation is required to meet
the dynamic landing conditions defined
in 14 CFR 29.562. Because the
manufacturing defect caused noncompliance with the aircraft
certification basis of 14 CFR 29.562, the
AD is applicable to the aircraft.
Conversely, the FAA has confirmed that
the manufacturing defect of MartinBaker observer seats supplier P/Ns
MBCS12200 and MBCS7301–2 did
cause non-compliance with TSO–C127a,
Rotorcraft, Transport Airplane, and
Normal and Utility Airplane Seating
Systems standards, which was the
applicable TSO when the seats were
manufactured. In this situation, the
unsafe condition exists in those
European State of Design seats, and not
from the installation of those seats in
Sikorsky Model S–92A helicopters. The
FAA recognizes that in this situation,
the FAA customarily issues an AD
against the appliance instead of the
aircraft. However, Sikorsky Model S–
92A helicopters are the only model on
the U.S. registry with those seats
installed and the FAA has therefore
determined that it is unnecessary to
change this AD at this time and have a
separate appliance AD against the
observer seats. If additional information
is later identified, the FAA might
consider further rulemaking.
Request To Change the Consequences of
Not Addressing the Unsafe Condition
Sikorsky requested revising the
consequences of not addressing the
unsafe condition in paragraph (e) of this
AD to not limit excessive lumbar loads
during a crash event to just the observer
seats because any seat with an
improperly manufactured main back
tube could induce excessive lumbar
loads during a crash event.
The FAA agrees for the reasons
provided. The FAA has revised
paragraph (e) of this AD accordingly.
Request for Credit for Compliance With
Service Information
In a request to change requirements
proposed in the NPRM, Sikorsky
commented that compliance with ASB
92–25–026 was required by March 5,
2021, and that all affected seats
(installed on Sikorsky Model S–92A
helicopters) that have been updated
with its procedures should be identified
as complying with this AD with no
further action required.
The FAA disagrees. This AD requires
replacing each main back tube assembly
by following procedures in ASB 92–25–
026. If this action has been
accomplished prior to the effective date
of this AD, then compliance for this
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action has been accomplished by
paragraph (f) of this AD. However, this
AD also prohibits installing an affected
seat on Sikorsky Model S–92A
helicopters unless the main back tube
assembly has been replaced following
those procedures in ASB 92–25–026.
Additionally, not all operators are
required to accomplish a manufacturer’s
maintenance procedures. In order for
procedures in service information,
including procedures in alert service
bulletins, to become mandatory when
the FAA has determined the procedures
are necessary to correct an identified
unsafe condition, the FAA must issue
an AD.
Request To Require Destruction and
Discarding of Parts Instead of Removal
From Service
Sikorsky requested changing the
requirement to remove certain
previously-installed parts from service
to destroying or discarding those parts
instead because Sikorsky does not
endorse removal from service.
The FAA disagrees. The FAA
appreciates that the removed main back
tube assemblies, split pins, and tie
down straps must not be reinstalled and
that those parts may be destroyed or
discarded; however, the FAA cannot
mandate or enforce destruction or
disposal of parts to address an unsafe
condition. For the purposes of an AD,
the FAA requires removal from service
instead to prevent reinstallation.
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Conclusion
The FAA reviewed the relevant data,
considered any comments received, and
determined that air safety requires
adopting this AD as proposed.
Accordingly, the FAA is issuing this AD
to address the unsafe condition on these
products. Except for a minor change in
paragraph (e) of this AD to clarify that
the FAA is issuing this AD to detect and
address a main back tube that does not
meet design specifications, a minor
change in Note 3 to paragraph (c) to
clarify that the marking of, ‘‘SIL833
incorporated’’ could be located adjacent
to identification labels on the underside
of the sitting platform assembly P/N
MBCS12215, and any other changes
described previously, this AD is
adopted as proposed in the NPRM.
None of the changes will increase the
economic burden on any operator.
Related Service Information Under 1
CFR Part 51
The FAA reviewed ASB 92–25–026,
with attachments Martin-Baker SIL 831
and Martin-Baker SIL 833. ASB 92–25–
026 specifies procedures for preparing
the helicopter for replacing the main
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back tube assembly by following SIL
831 or SIL 833, as applicable to your
seat. ASB 92–25–026 specifies removing
existing placards, complying with the
applicable SIL, reinstalling the removed
placards, inspecting for foreign object
debris (FOD), and cleaning. MartinBaker SIL 831 for side facing utility seat
supplier P/N MBCS12410AA001, and
Martin-Baker SIL 833 for observer seat
supplier P/N MBCS12200 and
MBCS7301–2, specify procedures for
disassembling the seat, inspecting
components, replacing the main back
tube assembly (tube assembly, back
main), and reassembling, testing, and
marking the seat. SIL 831 and SIL 833
are attached to ASB 92–25–026.
This service information is reasonably
available because the interested parties
have access to it through their normal
course of business or by the means
identified in ADDRESSES.
Differences Between This AD and the
Service Information
ASB 92–25–026 specifies a
compliance time of no later than March
5, 2021; whereas this AD specifies a
compliance time of within 125 hours
time-in-service (TIS) or six months after
the effective date of this AD, whichever
occurs first. ASB 92–25–026 specifies
inspecting for FOD and cleaning;
whereas this AD does not. SIL 831 and
SIL 833 specify destroying and
disposing discrepant main back tube
assemblies and discarding removed split
pins and tie down straps; whereas this
AD requires removing those parts from
service instead. The service information
specifies recording compliance; whereas
this AD does not.
Costs of Compliance
The FAA estimates that this AD
affects 9 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.
Replacing a main back tube assembly
takes about 2 work-hours and parts cost
about $11,217, for an estimated cost of
about $11,387 per seat. Each helicopter
could have up to 19 affected seats,
which takes up to about 38 work-hours
and parts cost up to about $213,123, for
an estimated cost of up to about
$216,353 per helicopter and $1,947,177
for the U.S. fleet.
The FAA has included all known
costs in its cost estimate. According to
the manufacturer, however, some of the
costs of this AD may be covered under
warranty, thereby reducing the cost
impact on affected operators.
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57557
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:
■
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Federal Register / Vol. 86, No. 198 / Monday, October 18, 2021 / Rules and Regulations
2021–19–17 Sikorsky Aircraft Corporation:
Amendment 39–21735; Docket No.
FAA–2021–0106; Project Identifier AD–
2020–00708–R.
(a) Effective Date
This airworthiness directive (AD) is
effective November 22, 2021.
(b) Affected ADs
None.
(c) Applicability
This AD applies to Sikorsky Aircraft
Corporation Model S–92A helicopters,
certificated in any category, with the
following installed:
(1) A Martin-Baker side facing utility seat
supplier part number (P/N)
MBCS12410AA001 with a serial number
(S/N) identified in Table 2 of Martin-Baker
Special Information Leaflet (SIL) No. 831,
dated July 10, 2019 (SIL 831), that is not
marked with ‘‘SIL831 incorporated;’’ or
(2) A Martin-Baker observer seat supplier
P/N MBCS12200 or MBCS7301–2 with an
S/N identified in Table 2 of Martin-Baker SIL
No. 833, dated July 11, 2019 (SIL 833), that
is not marked with ‘‘SIL833 incorporated.’’
Note 1 to paragraph (c): SIL 831 and SIL
833 are attached to Sikorsky S–92A
Helicopter Alert Service Bulletin ASB 92–
25–026, Basic Issue, dated March 5, 2020
(ASB 92–25–026).
Note 2 to paragraph (c): Section 3., the
Accomplishment Instructions, Tables 1 and 2
of ASB 92–25–026, specify cross references
of Martin-Baker supplier P/Ns with Sikorsky
P/Ns and kit P/Ns.
Note 3 to paragraph (c): The marking
‘‘SIL831 incorporated’’ or ‘‘SIL833
incorporated,’’ as applicable, could be
located adjacent to identification labels on
the underside of the sitting platform
assembly P/N MBCS4111 or MBCS12215,
respectively.
(d) Subject
Joint Aircraft System Component (JASC)
Code: 2500, Cabin Equipment/Furnishings;
and 2520, Passenger Compartment
Equipment.
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(e) Unsafe Condition
This AD was prompted by an incident of
a side facing utility seat detaching from wall
attachment points during dynamic testing.
The FAA is issuing this AD to detect and
address a main back tube, a component of the
main back tube assembly, which does not
meet design specifications. The unsafe
condition, if not addressed, could result in
increased surface friction in the direction of
the seat attenuation, failure of proper utility
seat attenuation during a crash event,
excessive lumbar loads during a crash event,
and subsequent excessive occupant injury.
(f) Compliance
Comply with this AD within the
compliance times specified, unless already
done.
(g) Required Actions
(1) Within 125 hours time-in-service or six
months after the effective date of this AD,
whichever occurs first, replace each main
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back tube assembly by following Section 3.,
Accomplishment Instructions, paragraphs C.
through E., of ASB 92–25–026; except where
the service information referenced in ASB
92–25–026 specifies destroying and
disposing of parts or discarding parts, this
AD requires removing those parts from
service instead.
Note 4 to paragraph (g)(1): SIL 831 and SIL
833, referred to in ASB 92–25–026, refer to
main back tube assembly as tube assembly,
back main.
(2) As of the effective date of this AD, do
not install a Martin-Baker side facing utility
seat identified in paragraph (c)(1) of this AD
or a Martin-Baker observer seat identified in
paragraph (c)(2) of this AD unless the actions
in paragraph (g)(1) of this AD have been
accomplished.
(h) Alternative Methods of Compliance
(AMOCs)
(1) The Manager, Boston ACO Branch,
FAA, has the authority to approve AMOCs
for this AD, if requested using the procedures
found in 14 CFR 39.19. In accordance with
14 CFR 39.19, send your request to your
principal inspector or local Flight Standards
District Office, as appropriate. If sending
information directly to the manager of the
certification office, send it to the attention of
the person identified in paragraph (i) of this
AD.
(2) Before using any approved AMOC,
notify your appropriate principal inspector,
or lacking a principal inspector, the manager
of the local flight standards district office/
certificate holding district office.
(i) Related Information
For more information about this AD,
contact Dorie Resnik, Aerospace Engineer,
Aviation Safety Section, Boston ACO Branch,
FAA, 1200 District Ave., Burlington, MA
01803; phone: (781) 238–7693; email:
dorie.resnik@faa.gov.
(j) 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 the AD specifies otherwise.
(i) Sikorsky S–92A Helicopter Alert Service
Bulletin ASB 92–25–026, Basic Issue, dated
March 5, 2020, with attachments:
(A) Martin-Baker Special Information
Leaflet (SIL) No. 831, dated July 10, 2019;
and
(B) Martin-Baker SIL No. 833, dated July
11, 2019.
(ii) [Reserved]
(3) As the design approval holder for the
product identified in paragraph (c) of this
AD, contact Sikorsky Aircraft Corporation for
Martin-Baker service information, as well as
Sikorsky S–92A helicopter service
information identified in this AD, by
contacting your local Sikorsky Field
Representative or Sikorsky’s Service
Engineering Group at Sikorsky Aircraft
Corporation, Mailstop K100, 124 Quarry
Road, Trumbull, CT 06611; telephone 1–800–
946–4337 (1–800–Winged–S); email wcs_
PO 00000
Frm 00030
Fmt 4700
Sfmt 4700
cust_service_eng.gr-sik@lmco.com. Operators
may also log on to the Sikorsky 360 website
at https://www.sikorsky360.com.
(4) You may view this service information
at FAA, Office of the Regional Counsel,
Southwest Region, 10101 Hillwood Pkwy.,
Room 6N–321, Fort Worth, TX 76177. For
information on the availability of this
material at the FAA, call (817) 222–5110.
(5) You may view this service information
that is incorporated by reference at the
National Archives and Records
Administration (NARA). For information on
the availability of this material at NARA,
email: fr.inspection@nara.gov, or go to:
https://www.archives.gov/federal-register/cfr/
ibr-locations.html.
Issued on September 8, 2021.
Lance T. Gant,
Director, Compliance & Airworthiness
Division, Aircraft Certification Service.
[FR Doc. 2021–22464 Filed 10–15–21; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE 4910–13–P
DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION
Federal Aviation Administration
14 CFR Part 39
[Docket No. FAA–2021–0576; Project
Identifier 2019–CE–008–AD; Amendment
39–21758; AD 2021–20–20]
RIN 2120–AA64
Airworthiness Directives; Pacific
Aerospace Limited Airplanes
Federal Aviation
Administration (FAA), DOT.
ACTION: Final rule.
AGENCY:
The FAA is adopting a new
airworthiness directive (AD) for certain
Pacific Aerospace Limited Model 750XL
airplanes. This AD was prompted by
mandatory continuing airworthiness
information (MCAI) originated by an
aviation authority of another country to
identify and correct an unsafe condition
on an aviation product. The MCAI
identifies the unsafe condition as
installation of the wing leading edge
tank fuel pickup assembly in a prestressed condition, which could cause
cracks in the wing spar web or the fuel
pickup assembly pipe. This AD requires
inspecting the angle of the support
bracket on the wing leading edge tank
fuel pickup assembly and taking any
necessary corrective actions. The FAA is
issuing this AD to address the unsafe
condition on these products.
DATES: This AD is effective November
22, 2021.
The Director of the Federal Register
approved the incorporation by reference
of a certain publication listed in this AD
as of November 22, 2021.
SUMMARY:
E:\FR\FM\18OCR1.SGM
18OCR1
]]>Agencies
[Federal Register Volume 86, Number 198 (Monday, October 18, 2021)]
[Rules and Regulations]
[Pages 57555-57558]
From the Federal Register Online via the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]
[FR Doc No: 2021-22464]
-----------------------------------------------------------------------
DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION
Federal Aviation Administration
14 CFR Part 39
[Docket No. FAA-2021-0106; Project Identifier AD-2020-00708-R;
Amendment 39-21735; AD 2021-19-17]
RIN 2120-AA64
Airworthiness Directives; Sikorsky Aircraft Corporation
Helicopters
AGENCY: Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), DOT.
ACTION: Final rule.
-----------------------------------------------------------------------
SUMMARY: The FAA is adopting a new airworthiness directive (AD) for
certain Sikorsky Aircraft Corporation (Sikorsky) Model S-92A
helicopters. This AD was prompted by an incident of a side facing
utility seat detaching from wall attachment points. This AD requires
modifying certain side facing utility seats and observer seats, and
prohibits installing those seats unless the modification has been
accomplished. The FAA is issuing this AD to address the unsafe
condition on these products.
DATES: This AD is effective November 22, 2021.
The Director of the Federal Register approved the incorporation by
reference of certain publications listed in this AD as of November 22,
2021.
ADDRESSES: For Martin-Baker and Sikorsky service information identified
in this final rule, contact your local Sikorsky Field Representative or
Sikorsky's Service Engineering Group at Sikorsky Aircraft Corporation,
Mailstop K100, 124 Quarry Road, Trumbull, CT 06611; telephone 1-800-
946-4337 (1-800-Winged-S); email [email protected].
Operators may also log on to the Sikorsky 360 website at https://www.sikorsky360.com. You may view this service information at the FAA,
Office of the Regional Counsel, Southwest Region, 10101 Hillwood Pkwy.,
Room 6N-321, Fort Worth, TX 76177. For information on the availability
of this material at the FAA, call (817) 222-5110. It is also available
at https://www.regulations.gov by searching for and locating Docket No.
FAA-2021-0106.
[[Page 57556]]
Examining the AD Docket
You may examine the AD docket at https://www.regulations.gov by
searching for and locating Docket No. FAA-2021-0106; 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: Dorie Resnik, Aerospace Engineer,
Aviation Safety Section, Boston ACO Branch, FAA, 1200 District Ave.,
Burlington, MA 01803; phone: (781) 238-7693; email:
[email protected].
SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION:
Background
The FAA issued a notice of proposed rulemaking (NPRM) to amend 14
CFR part 39 by adding an AD that would apply to Sikorsky Model S-92A
helicopters with certain Martin-Baker side facing utility or observer
seats installed. The NPRM published in the Federal Register on March 4,
2021 (86 FR 12550). The NPRM was prompted by an incident of a side
facing utility seat detaching from wall attachment points during
dynamic testing. The root cause has been identified as a change in the
finishing process of the main back tube. Due to design similarity,
certain observer seats are also subject to this unsafe condition. In
the NPRM, the FAA proposed to require replacing the main back tube
assembly in affected side facing utility and observer seats. The NPRM
also proposed to prohibit installing those seats unless the main back
tube assembly has been replaced. The FAA is issuing this AD to address
the unsafe condition on these products.
Discussion of Final Airworthiness Directive
Comments
The FAA received comments from two commenters. One commenter
supported the NPRM without change. Sikorsky also commented on the NPRM.
The following presents the comments received on the NPRM and the FAA's
response to each comment.
Request To Change the AD to an Appliance AD Against Martin-Baker Seats
Sikorsky requested changes throughout the proposed AD to change it
from an aircraft AD against Sikorsky to an appliance AD against Martin-
Baker. Sikorsky stated that the defect is in Martin-Baker technical
standard order (TSO) authorization seats and is not a defect of the
Sikorsky Model S-92A helicopter, and that the seats sold to Sikorsky
are manufactured under TSO-C39b (side facing utility seat) and TSO-
C127a (observer seat) qualifications and are supplied with a TSO-C39b
or TSO-C127a tag, as applicable. Sikorsky stated that the background of
the AD should provide the result of the FAA's review with Martin-Baker
Aircraft. According to Sikorsky, Martin-Baker indicated that seats for
Sikorsky platforms are tracked separately from other platforms; and
accordingly, the AD should be issued against affected Martin-Baker
seats to ensure all affected parts (Martin-Baker seat tube part number
(P/N) MBCS4109 and/or seat P/Ns MBCS12410AA001, MBCS12200, MBCS7301-2,
and other P/Ns as identified by Martin-Baker) are corrected. Sikorsky
further stated that during the review in support of the issuance of
Sikorsky S-92A Helicopter Alert Service Bulletin ASB 92-25-026, Basic
Issue, dated March 5, 2020 (ASB 92-25-026), Martin Baker Aircraft
Company indicated that over 1,000 fielded seats are affected by the
defect and that Sikorsky purchased 371 of the affected seats for the
Model S-92A helicopter. Sikorsky stated that it issued ASB 92-25-026 to
ensure its operators implemented the repairs specified in Martin-Baker
Special Information Leaflet (SIL) No. 831, dated July 10, 2019 (SIL
831), and SIL No. 833, dated July 11, 2019 (SIL 833). Additionally,
Sikorsky explained that ASB 92-25-026 identifies Model S-92A
helicopters with certain serial numbers (S/Ns) in its Effectivity
paragraph because that was the known span at the time of its issuance;
however, the AD should be against the seats because the seats can be
moved from one serial-numbered aircraft to another serial-numbered
aircraft and because the required change is to the articles.
The FAA disagrees. The FAA has confirmed that the manufacturing
defect of Martin-Baker side facing utility seats supplier P/N
MBCS12410AA001 did not cause non-compliance with TSO-C39b Aircraft
Seats and Berths. The unsafe condition does not exist in those seats,
it resulted from the installation of those seats in Sikorsky Model S-
92A helicopters. In this situation, it became Sikorsky's responsibility
to show compliance with 14 CFR 29.562 at Amendment 29-41 for the
installed seat because this is part of the certification basis of the
aircraft as defined in FAA Type Certificate No. R00024BO. Even though
the seat is TSO-C39b qualified, the seat installation is required to
meet the dynamic landing conditions defined in 14 CFR 29.562. Because
the manufacturing defect caused non-compliance with the aircraft
certification basis of 14 CFR 29.562, the AD is applicable to the
aircraft. Conversely, the FAA has confirmed that the manufacturing
defect of Martin-Baker observer seats supplier P/Ns MBCS12200 and
MBCS7301-2 did cause non-compliance with TSO-C127a, Rotorcraft,
Transport Airplane, and Normal and Utility Airplane Seating Systems
standards, which was the applicable TSO when the seats were
manufactured. In this situation, the unsafe condition exists in those
European State of Design seats, and not from the installation of those
seats in Sikorsky Model S-92A helicopters. The FAA recognizes that in
this situation, the FAA customarily issues an AD against the appliance
instead of the aircraft. However, Sikorsky Model S-92A helicopters are
the only model on the U.S. registry with those seats installed and the
FAA has therefore determined that it is unnecessary to change this AD
at this time and have a separate appliance AD against the observer
seats. If additional information is later identified, the FAA might
consider further rulemaking.
Request To Change the Consequences of Not Addressing the Unsafe
Condition
Sikorsky requested revising the consequences of not addressing the
unsafe condition in paragraph (e) of this AD to not limit excessive
lumbar loads during a crash event to just the observer seats because
any seat with an improperly manufactured main back tube could induce
excessive lumbar loads during a crash event.
The FAA agrees for the reasons provided. The FAA has revised
paragraph (e) of this AD accordingly.
Request for Credit for Compliance With Service Information
In a request to change requirements proposed in the NPRM, Sikorsky
commented that compliance with ASB 92-25-026 was required by March 5,
2021, and that all affected seats (installed on Sikorsky Model S-92A
helicopters) that have been updated with its procedures should be
identified as complying with this AD with no further action required.
The FAA disagrees. This AD requires replacing each main back tube
assembly by following procedures in ASB 92-25-026. If this action has
been accomplished prior to the effective date of this AD, then
compliance for this
[[Page 57557]]
action has been accomplished by paragraph (f) of this AD. However, this
AD also prohibits installing an affected seat on Sikorsky Model S-92A
helicopters unless the main back tube assembly has been replaced
following those procedures in ASB 92-25-026. Additionally, not all
operators are required to accomplish a manufacturer's maintenance
procedures. In order for procedures in service information, including
procedures in alert service bulletins, to become mandatory when the FAA
has determined the procedures are necessary to correct an identified
unsafe condition, the FAA must issue an AD.
Request To Require Destruction and Discarding of Parts Instead of
Removal From Service
Sikorsky requested changing the requirement to remove certain
previously-installed parts from service to destroying or discarding
those parts instead because Sikorsky does not endorse removal from
service.
The FAA disagrees. The FAA appreciates that the removed main back
tube assemblies, split pins, and tie down straps must not be
reinstalled and that those parts may be destroyed or discarded;
however, the FAA cannot mandate or enforce destruction or disposal of
parts to address an unsafe condition. For the purposes of an AD, the
FAA requires removal from service instead to prevent reinstallation.
Conclusion
The FAA reviewed the relevant data, considered any comments
received, and determined that air safety requires adopting this AD as
proposed. Accordingly, the FAA is issuing this AD to address the unsafe
condition on these products. Except for a minor change in paragraph (e)
of this AD to clarify that the FAA is issuing this AD to detect and
address a main back tube that does not meet design specifications, a
minor change in Note 3 to paragraph (c) to clarify that the marking of,
``SIL833 incorporated'' could be located adjacent to identification
labels on the underside of the sitting platform assembly P/N MBCS12215,
and any other changes described previously, this AD is adopted as
proposed in the NPRM. None of the changes will increase the economic
burden on any operator.
Related Service Information Under 1 CFR Part 51
The FAA reviewed ASB 92-25-026, with attachments Martin-Baker SIL
831 and Martin-Baker SIL 833. ASB 92-25-026 specifies procedures for
preparing the helicopter for replacing the main back tube assembly by
following SIL 831 or SIL 833, as applicable to your seat. ASB 92-25-026
specifies removing existing placards, complying with the applicable
SIL, reinstalling the removed placards, inspecting for foreign object
debris (FOD), and cleaning. Martin-Baker SIL 831 for side facing
utility seat supplier P/N MBCS12410AA001, and Martin-Baker SIL 833 for
observer seat supplier P/N MBCS12200 and MBCS7301-2, specify procedures
for disassembling the seat, inspecting components, replacing the main
back tube assembly (tube assembly, back main), and reassembling,
testing, and marking the seat. SIL 831 and SIL 833 are attached to ASB
92-25-026.
This service information is reasonably available because the
interested parties have access to it through their normal course of
business or by the means identified in ADDRESSES.
Differences Between This AD and the Service Information
ASB 92-25-026 specifies a compliance time of no later than March 5,
2021; whereas this AD specifies a compliance time of within 125 hours
time-in-service (TIS) or six months after the effective date of this
AD, whichever occurs first. ASB 92-25-026 specifies inspecting for FOD
and cleaning; whereas this AD does not. SIL 831 and SIL 833 specify
destroying and disposing discrepant main back tube assemblies and
discarding removed split pins and tie down straps; whereas this AD
requires removing those parts from service instead. The service
information specifies recording compliance; whereas this AD does not.
Costs of Compliance
The FAA estimates that this AD affects 9 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.
Replacing a main back tube assembly takes about 2 work-hours and
parts cost about $11,217, for an estimated cost of about $11,387 per
seat. Each helicopter could have up to 19 affected seats, which takes
up to about 38 work-hours and parts cost up to about $213,123, for an
estimated cost of up to about $216,353 per helicopter and $1,947,177
for the U.S. fleet.
The FAA has included all known costs in its cost estimate.
According to the manufacturer, however, some of the costs of this AD
may be covered under warranty, thereby reducing the cost impact on
affected operators.
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:
[[Page 57558]]
2021-19-17 Sikorsky Aircraft Corporation: Amendment 39-21735; Docket
No. FAA-2021-0106; Project Identifier AD-2020-00708-R.
(a) Effective Date
This airworthiness directive (AD) is effective November 22,
2021.
(b) Affected ADs
None.
(c) Applicability
This AD applies to Sikorsky Aircraft Corporation Model S-92A
helicopters, certificated in any category, with the following
installed:
(1) A Martin-Baker side facing utility seat supplier part number
(P/N) MBCS12410AA001 with a serial number (S/N) identified in Table
2 of Martin-Baker Special Information Leaflet (SIL) No. 831, dated
July 10, 2019 (SIL 831), that is not marked with ``SIL831
incorporated;'' or
(2) A Martin-Baker observer seat supplier P/N MBCS12200 or
MBCS7301-2 with an S/N identified in Table 2 of Martin-Baker SIL No.
833, dated July 11, 2019 (SIL 833), that is not marked with ``SIL833
incorporated.''
Note 1 to paragraph (c): SIL 831 and SIL 833 are attached to
Sikorsky S-92A Helicopter Alert Service Bulletin ASB 92-25-026,
Basic Issue, dated March 5, 2020 (ASB 92-25-026).
Note 2 to paragraph (c): Section 3., the Accomplishment
Instructions, Tables 1 and 2 of ASB 92-25-026, specify cross
references of Martin-Baker supplier P/Ns with Sikorsky P/Ns and kit
P/Ns.
Note 3 to paragraph (c): The marking ``SIL831 incorporated'' or
``SIL833 incorporated,'' as applicable, could be located adjacent to
identification labels on the underside of the sitting platform
assembly P/N MBCS4111 or MBCS12215, respectively.
(d) Subject
Joint Aircraft System Component (JASC) Code: 2500, Cabin
Equipment/Furnishings; and 2520, Passenger Compartment Equipment.
(e) Unsafe Condition
This AD was prompted by an incident of a side facing utility
seat detaching from wall attachment points during dynamic testing.
The FAA is issuing this AD to detect and address a main back tube, a
component of the main back tube assembly, which does not meet design
specifications. The unsafe condition, if not addressed, could result
in increased surface friction in the direction of the seat
attenuation, failure of proper utility seat attenuation during a
crash event, excessive lumbar loads during a crash event, and
subsequent excessive occupant injury.
(f) Compliance
Comply with this AD within the compliance times specified,
unless already done.
(g) Required Actions
(1) Within 125 hours time-in-service or six months after the
effective date of this AD, whichever occurs first, replace each main
back tube assembly by following Section 3., Accomplishment
Instructions, paragraphs C. through E., of ASB 92-25-026; except
where the service information referenced in ASB 92-25-026 specifies
destroying and disposing of parts or discarding parts, this AD
requires removing those parts from service instead.
Note 4 to paragraph (g)(1): SIL 831 and SIL 833, referred to in
ASB 92-25-026, refer to main back tube assembly as tube assembly,
back main.
(2) As of the effective date of this AD, do not install a
Martin-Baker side facing utility seat identified in paragraph (c)(1)
of this AD or a Martin-Baker observer seat identified in paragraph
(c)(2) of this AD unless the actions in paragraph (g)(1) of this AD
have been accomplished.
(h) Alternative Methods of Compliance (AMOCs)
(1) The Manager, Boston ACO Branch, FAA, has the authority to
approve AMOCs for this AD, if requested using the procedures found
in 14 CFR 39.19. In accordance with 14 CFR 39.19, send your request
to your principal inspector or local Flight Standards District
Office, as appropriate. If sending information directly to the
manager of the certification office, send it to the attention of the
person identified in paragraph (i) of this AD.
(2) Before using any approved AMOC, notify your appropriate
principal inspector, or lacking a principal inspector, the manager
of the local flight standards district office/certificate holding
district office.
(i) Related Information
For more information about this AD, contact Dorie Resnik,
Aerospace Engineer, Aviation Safety Section, Boston ACO Branch, FAA,
1200 District Ave., Burlington, MA 01803; phone: (781) 238-7693;
email: [email protected].
(j) 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 the AD specifies otherwise.
(i) Sikorsky S-92A Helicopter Alert Service Bulletin ASB 92-25-
026, Basic Issue, dated March 5, 2020, with attachments:
(A) Martin-Baker Special Information Leaflet (SIL) No. 831,
dated July 10, 2019; and
(B) Martin-Baker SIL No. 833, dated July 11, 2019.
(ii) [Reserved]
(3) As the design approval holder for the product identified in
paragraph (c) of this AD, contact Sikorsky Aircraft Corporation for
Martin-Baker service information, as well as Sikorsky S-92A
helicopter service information identified in this AD, by contacting
your local Sikorsky Field Representative or Sikorsky's Service
Engineering Group at Sikorsky Aircraft Corporation, Mailstop K100,
124 Quarry Road, Trumbull, CT 06611; telephone 1-800-946-4337 (1-
800-Winged-S); email [email protected]. Operators
may also log on to the Sikorsky 360 website at https://www.sikorsky360.com.
(4) You may view this service information at FAA, Office of the
Regional Counsel, Southwest Region, 10101 Hillwood Pkwy., Room 6N-
321, Fort Worth, TX 76177. For information on the availability of
this material at the FAA, call (817) 222-5110.
(5) You may view this service information that is incorporated
by reference at the National Archives and Records Administration
(NARA). For information on the availability of this material at
NARA, email: [email protected], or go to: https://www.archives.gov/federal-register/cfr/ibr-locations.html.
Issued on September 8, 2021.
Lance T. Gant,
Director, Compliance & Airworthiness Division, Aircraft Certification
Service.
[FR Doc. 2021-22464 Filed 10-15-21; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE 4910-13-P
