Airworthiness Directives; Airbus Helicopters, 62719-62721 [2021-24544]

Download as PDF Federal Register / Vol. 86, No. 216 / Friday, November 12, 2021 / Rules and Regulations (a) Effective Date This airworthiness directive (AD) is effective December 17, 2021. (b) Affected ADs This AD replaces AD 2021–05–16, Amendment 39–21459 (86 FR 17287, April 2, 2021). (c) Applicability This AD applies to Pratt & Whitney Division (PW) PW4164, PW4164–1D, PW4168, PW4168–1D, PW4168A, PW4168A– 1D, and PW4170 model turbofan engines with low-pressure turbine (LPT) 4th-stage air sealing ring segment assemblies, part number (P/N) 50N463–01, P/N 50N526–01, or FAAapproved equivalent part numbers, installed. (d) Subject Joint Aircraft System Component (JASC) Code 7250, Turbine Section. (e) Unsafe Condition This AD was prompted by several reports from the manufacturer concerning LPT 4thstage vane cluster assemblies leaning back and notching into the rotating LPT 4th-stage blades, causing some blades to fracture and release. A manufacturer investigation into those reports determined that the leaning back of the LPT 4th-stage vane cluster assemblies was caused by damage to the LPT 4th-stage air sealing ring segment assemblies. The FAA is issuing this AD to prevent damage to the LPT 4th-stage air sealing ring segment assemblies, the LPT case, and the LPT 4th-stage blades. The unsafe condition, if not addressed, could result in uncontained release of the LPT 4th-stage blades, damage to the engine, and damage to the airplane. lotter on DSK11XQN23PROD with RULES1 (f) Compliance Comply with this AD within the compliance times specified, unless already done. (g) Required Actions (1) For affected engines that have either the Talon IIA outer combustion chamber assembly, P/N 51J100 or P/N 51J382, or the Talon IIB outer combustion chamber assembly, P/N 51J381 or P/N 51J500, installed, at the next engine shop visit after the effective date of this AD, remove from service the LPT 4th-stage air sealing ring segment assemblies, P/N 50N463–01, P/N 50N526–01, or FAA-approved equivalent part numbers, and replace with parts eligible for installation. (2) For affected engines not referenced in paragraph (g)(1) of this AD, at the next LPT overhaul after the effective date of this AD, remove from service the LPT 4th-stage air sealing ring segment assemblies, P/N 50N463–01, P/N 50N526–01, or FAAapproved equivalent part numbers, and replace with parts eligible for installation. (3) For all affected engines, at each LPT overhaul after compliance with the required actions in paragraph (g)(1) or (2) of this AD, remove from service the LPT 4th-stage air sealing ring segment assemblies, P/N 50N526–01 or FAA-approved equivalent part numbers, and replace with parts eligible for installation. VerDate Sep<11>2014 15:55 Nov 10, 2021 Jkt 256001 (4) During each replacement of the LPT 4th-stage air sealing ring segment assemblies required by paragraphs (g)(1) through (3) of this AD, perform a dimensional inspection of the LPT case for bulging in accordance with the Accomplishment Instructions, paragraph 2, of PW Alert Service Bulletin No. PW4G– 100–A72–262 Revision No. 1, dated September 3, 2020 (the ASB). (5) If, during the dimensional inspection of the LPT case required by paragraph (g)(4) of this AD, any LPT case found to be outside the serviceable limits specified in Table 1: Serviceable Limits and Repairs of the ASB, repair or replace the LPT case before further flight. (h) Definitions For the purpose of this AD: (1) An ‘‘engine shop visit’’ is the induction of an engine into the shop for maintenance involving the separation of pairs of major mating engine flanges H through P. The separation of engine flanges solely for the purpose of transportation without subsequent engine maintenance does not constitute an engine shop visit. (2) An ‘‘LPT overhaul’’ is when the LPT rotor is removed from the engine, all four disks are removed from the LPT rotor, and all blades are removed from the disks. (3) ‘‘Parts eligible for installation’’ are LPT 4th-stage air sealing ring segment assemblies, P/N 50N526–01, or FAA-approved equivalent part numbers, with zero flight cycles since new or with a P/N not mentioned in this AD. (i) Credit for Previous Actions You may take credit for the dimensional inspection of the LPT case for bulging required by paragraph (g)(4) of this AD if the inspection was performed before the effective date of this AD using PW ASB PW4G–100– A72–262 Original Issue, dated October 22, 2019. (j) Alternative Methods of Compliance (AMOCs) (1) The Manager, ECO Branch, FAA, has the authority to approve AMOCs for this AD, if requested using the procedures found in 14 CFR 39.19. In accordance with 14 CFR 39.19, send your request to your principal inspector or local Flight Standards District Office, as appropriate. If sending information directly to the manager of the certification office, send it to the attention of the person identified in paragraph (k) of this AD. Information may be emailed to: ANE-ADAMOC@faa.gov. (2) Before using any approved AMOC, notify your appropriate principal inspector, or lacking a principal inspector, the manager of the local flight standards district office/ certificate holding district office. (k) Related Information For more information about this AD, contact Carol Nguyen, Aviation Safety Engineer, ECO Branch, FAA, 1200 District Avenue, Burlington, MA 01803; phone: (781) 238–7655; fax: (781) 238–7199; email: carol.nguyen@faa.gov. (l) Material Incorporated by Reference (1) The Director of the Federal Register approved the incorporation by reference PO 00000 Frm 00007 Fmt 4700 Sfmt 4700 62719 (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. (3) The following service information was approved for IBR on May 7, 2021 (86 FR 17287, April 2, 2021). (i) Pratt & Whitney Alert Service Bulletin No. PW4G–100–A72–262, Revision No. 1, dated September 3, 2020. (ii) [Reserved] (4) For Pratt & Whitney service information identified in this AD, contact Pratt & Whitney, 400 Main Street, East Hartford, CT 06118; phone: (800) 565–0140; email: help24@pw.utc.com; website: https:// fleetcare.prattwhitney.com. (5) You may view this service information at FAA, Airworthiness Products Section, Operational Safety Branch, 1200 District Avenue, Burlington, MA 01803. For information on the availability of this material at the FAA, call (781) 238–7759. (6) 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 October 15, 2021. Lance T. Gant, Director, Compliance & Airworthiness Division, Aircraft Certification Service. [FR Doc. 2021–24574 Filed 11–10–21; 8:45 am] BILLING CODE 4910–13–P DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION Federal Aviation Administration 14 CFR Part 39 [Docket No. FAA–2020–1131; Project Identifier MCAI–2020–00613–R; Amendment 39–21816; AD 2021–05–02] RIN 2120–AA64 Airworthiness Directives; Airbus Helicopters Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), Department of Transportation (DOT). ACTION: Final rule; removal; request for comments. AGENCY: The FAA is removing Airworthiness Directive (AD) 2021–05– 02, which applied to all Airbus Helicopters Model AS350B, AS350BA, AS350B1, AS350B2, AS350B3, AS350C, and AS350D helicopters; Model AS355E, AS355F, AS355F1, AS355F2, AS355N, and AS355NP helicopters; and Model EC130B4 and EC130T2 helicopters. AD 2021–05–02 required determining whether the helicopter has SUMMARY: E:\FR\FM\12NOR1.SGM 12NOR1 62720 Federal Register / Vol. 86, No. 216 / Friday, November 12, 2021 / Rules and Regulations been operated in a severe environment since the last inspection of the main rotor hub-to-mast attachment screws, an inspection of the main rotor hub-to-mast attachment screws if the helicopter has been operated in a severe environment, and replacement of the main rotor hubto-mast attachment screws if necessary, as specified in a European Aviation Safety Agency (now European Union Aviation Safety Agency) (EASA) AD, which was incorporated by reference. Since the FAA issued AD 2021–05–02, reported inspection results and further investigation have confirmed that the report of failed main rotor hub-to-mast attachment screws, which prompted AD 2021–05–02, was an isolated case which resulted from a maintenance mistake. Therefore, the FAA has determined that no unsafe condition is likely to exist or develop on the main rotor hub-to-mast attachment screws on other helicopters in the fleet. Accordingly, AD 2021–05– 02 is removed. DATES: This AD becomes effective November 12, 2021. The FAA must receive comments on this AD by December 27, 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: U.S. Department of Transportation, Docket Operations, M– 30, West Building Ground Floor, Room W12–140, 1200 New Jersey Avenue SE, Washington, DC 20590, between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m., Monday through Friday, except Federal holidays. lotter on DSK11XQN23PROD with RULES1 Examining the AD Docket You may examine the AD docket at https://www.regulations.gov by searching for and locating Docket No. FAA–2020–1131; 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: Hal Jensen, Aerospace Engineer, Operational Safety Branch, Compliance & VerDate Sep<11>2014 15:55 Nov 10, 2021 Jkt 256001 Airworthiness Division, FAA, 950 L’Enfant Plaza N SW, Washington, DC 20024; phone: (202) 267–9167; email: hal.jensen@faa.gov. SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: Comments Invited The FAA invites you to send any written data, views, or arguments about this final rule. Send your comments to an address listed under ADDRESSES. Include ‘‘Docket No. FAA–2020–1131; Project Identifier MCAI–2020–00613–R’’ at the beginning of your comments. The most helpful comments reference a specific portion of the final rule, 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 final rule 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 final rule. 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 Hal Jensen, Aerospace Engineer, Operational Safety Branch, Compliance & Airworthiness Division, FAA, 950 L’Enfant Plaza N SW, Washington, DC 20024; phone: (202) 267–9167; email: hal.jensen@faa.gov. Any commentary that the FAA receives which is not specifically designated as CBI will be placed in the public docket for this rulemaking. Background The EASA, which is the Technical Agent for the Member States of the European Union, has issued EASA AD PO 00000 Frm 00008 Fmt 4700 Sfmt 4700 2017–0032–CN, dated August 11, 2021 (EASA AD 2017–0032–CN) (also referred to as the Mandatory Continuing Airworthiness Information, or the MCAI), to cancel EASA AD 2017–0032, dated February 17, 2017; corrected February 20, 2017 (EASA AD 2017– 0032) which was issued to correct an unsafe condition for all Airbus Helicopters Model AS 350 B, AS 350 BA, AS 350 BB, AS 350 B1, AS 350 B2, AS 350 B3, and AS 350 D helicopters; AS 355 E, AS 355 F, AS 355 F1, AS 355 F2, AS 355 N, and AS 355 NP helicopters; and EC 130 B4 and EC 130 T2 helicopters. EASA AD 2017–0032 prompted FAA AD 2021–05–02, Amendment 39–21445 (86 FR 13982, March 12, 2021) (AD 2021–05–02). Model AS 350 BB helicopters are not certificated by the FAA and are not included on the U.S. type certificate data sheet; AD 2021–05–02 therefore did not include those helicopters in the applicability. AD 2021–05–02 also applied to Airbus Helicopter Model AS 350C helicopters because these helicopters have a similar design and are included on the U.S. type certificate data sheet. AD 2021–05–02 applied to all Airbus Helicopters Model AS350B, AS350BA, AS350B1, AS350B2, AS350B3, AS350C, and AS350D helicopters; Model AS355E, AS355F, AS355F1, AS355F2, AS355N, and AS355NP helicopters; and Model EC130B4 and EC130T2 helicopters. AD 2021–05–02 required determining whether the helicopter has been operated in a severe environment since the last inspection of the main rotor hub-to-mast attachment screws, an inspection of the main rotor hub-to-mast attachment screws if the helicopter has been operated in a severe environment, and replacement of the main rotor hubto-mast attachment screws if necessary. Actions Since AD 2021–05–02 Was Issued Since the FAA issued AD 2021–05– 02, reported inspection results and further investigation have confirmed that the report of failed main rotor hubto-mast attachment screws, which prompted EASA AD 2017–0032 and AD 2021–05–02, was an isolated case which resulted from a maintenance mistake, and therefore no unsafe condition is likely to exist or develop on the affected helicopters. The FAA is issuing this AD to remove AD 2021–05–02. Justification for Immediate Adoption and Determination of the Effective Date Section 553(b)(3)(B) of the Administrative Procedure Act (APA) (5 U.S.C. 551 et seq.) authorizes agencies to dispense with notice and comment E:\FR\FM\12NOR1.SGM 12NOR1 Federal Register / Vol. 86, No. 216 / Friday, November 12, 2021 / Rules and Regulations 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 1,220 helicopters of U.S. registry affected by AD 2021–05– 02. However, the FAA notes that AD 2021–05–02 requires unnecessary maintenance actions because the identified unsafe condition does not exist on these helicopters. Therefore, it is unlikely that the FAA would receive any adverse comments or useful information about this AD from U.S. operators that would cause a need for public comment prior to adoption. Accordingly, notice and opportunity for prior public comment are unnecessary, pursuant to 5 U.S.C. 553(b)(3)(B). In addition, for the foregoing reasons, 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. 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. (c) Applicability This action applies to all Airbus Helicopters, certificated in any category, as identified in paragraphs (c)(1) through (3) of this AD. (1) Model AS350B, AS350BA, AS350B1, AS350B2, AS350B3, AS350C, and AS350D helicopters. (2) Model AS355E, AS355F, AS355F1, AS355F2, AS355N, and AS355NP helicopters. (3) Model EC130B4 and EC130T2 helicopters. Regulatory Findings (d) Subject Joint Aircraft System Component (JASC) Code 6200, Main Rotor System. List of Subjects in 14 CFR Part 39 BILLING CODE 4910–13–P FAA’s Conclusions Upon further consideration, the FAA has determined that AD 2021–05–02 is no longer necessary. Accordingly, this AD removes AD 2021–05–02. Removal of AD 2021–05–02 does not preclude the FAA from issuing another related action or commit the FAA to any course of action in the future. Air transportation, Aircraft, Aviation safety, Incorporation by reference, Safety. DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION Accordingly, under the authority delegated to me by the Administrator, the FAA amends 14 CFR part 39 as follows: 14 CFR Part 71 Regulatory Flexibility Act The requirements of the Regulatory Flexibility Act (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 FAA has determined that it has good cause to adopt this rule without prior notice and comment, RFA analysis is not required. PART 39—AIRWORTHINESS DIRECTIVES Amendment of VOR Federal Airways V–31, V–36, V–84, V–252, and V–510 in the Vicinity of Buffalo, NY Related Costs of Compliance This AD adds no cost. This AD removes AD 2021–05–02 from 14 CFR part 39; therefore, operators are no longer required to show compliance with that AD. lotter on DSK11XQN23PROD with RULES1 62721 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. VerDate Sep<11>2014 15:55 Nov 10, 2021 Jkt 256001 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 that this AD: 1. Is not a ‘‘significant regulatory action’’ under Executive Order 12866; and 2. Will not affect intrastate aviation in Alaska. Adoption of the Amendment 1. The authority citation for part 39 continues to read as follows: ■ Authority: 49 U.S.C. 106(g), 40113, 44701. § 39.13 [Amended] 2. The FAA amends § 39.13 by: ■ a. Removing Airworthiness Directive (AD) 2021–05–02, Amendment 39– 21445 (86 FR 13982, March 12, 2021), and ■ b. Adding the following new AD: ■ 2021–05–02 Airbus Helicopters: Docket No. FAA–2020–1131; Project Identifier MCAI–2020–00613–R. (a) Effective Date This airworthiness directive (AD) becomes effective November 12, 2021. (b) Affected AD This AD replaces AD 2021–05–02, Amendment 39–21445 (86 FR 13982, March 12, 2021). PO 00000 Frm 00009 Fmt 4700 Sfmt 4700 (e) Related Information 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; phone: (202) 267–9167; email: hal.jensen@faa.gov. (f) Material Incorporated by Reference None. Issued on November 4, 2021. Lance T. Gant, Director, Compliance & Airworthiness Division, Aircraft Certification Service. [FR Doc. 2021–24544 Filed 11–10–21; 8:45 am] Federal Aviation Administration [Docket No. FAA–2020–0496; Airspace Docket No. 20–AEA–1] RIN 2120–AA66 Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), DOT. ACTION: Final rule AGENCY: This action amends VHF Omnidirectional Range (VOR) Federal airways V–31, V–36, V–84, V–252, and V–510. This action is necessary due to the planned decommissioning of the VOR portion of the Buffalo, NY, VOR/ Distance Measuring Equipment (VOR/ DME) navigational aid, which provides navigational guidance for these airways. The Buffalo VOR is being decommissioned as part of the FAA’s VOR Minimum Operational Network (MON) program. The VOR Federal airways V–2, V–14, V–33, and V–164 modifications proposed in the notice of proposed rulemaking have been accomplished by separate rules subsequently published. SUMMARY: E:\FR\FM\12NOR1.SGM 12NOR1

Agencies

[Federal Register Volume 86, Number 216 (Friday, November 12, 2021)]
[Rules and Regulations]
[Pages 62719-62721]
From the Federal Register Online via the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]
[FR Doc No: 2021-24544]


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

DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION

Federal Aviation Administration

14 CFR Part 39

[Docket No. FAA-2020-1131; Project Identifier MCAI-2020-00613-R; 
Amendment 39-21816; AD 2021-05-02]
RIN 2120-AA64


Airworthiness Directives; Airbus Helicopters

AGENCY: Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), Department of 
Transportation (DOT).

ACTION: Final rule; removal; request for comments.

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

SUMMARY: The FAA is removing Airworthiness Directive (AD) 2021-05-02, 
which applied to all Airbus Helicopters Model AS350B, AS350BA, AS350B1, 
AS350B2, AS350B3, AS350C, and AS350D helicopters; Model AS355E, AS355F, 
AS355F1, AS355F2, AS355N, and AS355NP helicopters; and Model EC130B4 
and EC130T2 helicopters. AD 2021-05-02 required determining whether the 
helicopter has

[[Page 62720]]

been operated in a severe environment since the last inspection of the 
main rotor hub-to-mast attachment screws, an inspection of the main 
rotor hub-to-mast attachment screws if the helicopter has been operated 
in a severe environment, and replacement of the main rotor hub-to-mast 
attachment screws if necessary, as specified in a European Aviation 
Safety Agency (now European Union Aviation Safety Agency) (EASA) AD, 
which was incorporated by reference. Since the FAA issued AD 2021-05-
02, reported inspection results and further investigation have 
confirmed that the report of failed main rotor hub-to-mast attachment 
screws, which prompted AD 2021-05-02, was an isolated case which 
resulted from a maintenance mistake. Therefore, the FAA has determined 
that no unsafe condition is likely to exist or develop on the main 
rotor hub-to-mast attachment screws on other helicopters in the fleet. 
Accordingly, AD 2021-05-02 is removed.

DATES: This AD becomes effective November 12, 2021.
    The FAA must receive comments on this AD by December 27, 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: U.S. Department of Transportation, Docket 
Operations, M-30, West Building Ground Floor, Room W12-140, 1200 New 
Jersey Avenue SE, Washington, DC 20590, between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m., 
Monday through Friday, except Federal holidays.

Examining the AD Docket

    You may examine the AD docket at https://www.regulations.gov by 
searching for and locating Docket No. FAA-2020-1131; 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: Hal Jensen, Aerospace Engineer, 
Operational Safety Branch, Compliance & Airworthiness Division, FAA, 
950 L'Enfant Plaza N SW, Washington, DC 20024; phone: (202) 267-9167; 
email: [email protected].

SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION:

Comments Invited

    The FAA invites you to send any written data, views, or arguments 
about this final rule. Send your comments to an address listed under 
ADDRESSES. Include ``Docket No. FAA-2020-1131; Project Identifier MCAI-
2020-00613-R'' at the beginning of your comments. The most helpful 
comments reference a specific portion of the final rule, 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 final rule 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 final rule.

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 Hal 
Jensen, Aerospace Engineer, Operational Safety Branch, Compliance & 
Airworthiness Division, FAA, 950 L'Enfant Plaza N SW, Washington, DC 
20024; phone: (202) 267-9167; email: [email protected]. Any commentary 
that the FAA receives which is not specifically designated as CBI will 
be placed in the public docket for this rulemaking.

Background

    The EASA, which is the Technical Agent for the Member States of the 
European Union, has issued EASA AD 2017-0032-CN, dated August 11, 2021 
(EASA AD 2017-0032-CN) (also referred to as the Mandatory Continuing 
Airworthiness Information, or the MCAI), to cancel EASA AD 2017-0032, 
dated February 17, 2017; corrected February 20, 2017 (EASA AD 2017-
0032) which was issued to correct an unsafe condition for all Airbus 
Helicopters Model AS 350 B, AS 350 BA, AS 350 BB, AS 350 B1, AS 350 B2, 
AS 350 B3, and AS 350 D helicopters; AS 355 E, AS 355 F, AS 355 F1, AS 
355 F2, AS 355 N, and AS 355 NP helicopters; and EC 130 B4 and EC 130 
T2 helicopters. EASA AD 2017-0032 prompted FAA AD 2021-05-02, Amendment 
39-21445 (86 FR 13982, March 12, 2021) (AD 2021-05-02). Model AS 350 BB 
helicopters are not certificated by the FAA and are not included on the 
U.S. type certificate data sheet; AD 2021-05-02 therefore did not 
include those helicopters in the applicability. AD 2021-05-02 also 
applied to Airbus Helicopter Model AS 350C helicopters because these 
helicopters have a similar design and are included on the U.S. type 
certificate data sheet. AD 2021-05-02 applied to all Airbus Helicopters 
Model AS350B, AS350BA, AS350B1, AS350B2, AS350B3, AS350C, and AS350D 
helicopters; Model AS355E, AS355F, AS355F1, AS355F2, AS355N, and 
AS355NP helicopters; and Model EC130B4 and EC130T2 helicopters. AD 
2021-05-02 required determining whether the helicopter has been 
operated in a severe environment since the last inspection of the main 
rotor hub-to-mast attachment screws, an inspection of the main rotor 
hub-to-mast attachment screws if the helicopter has been operated in a 
severe environment, and replacement of the main rotor hub-to-mast 
attachment screws if necessary.

Actions Since AD 2021-05-02 Was Issued

    Since the FAA issued AD 2021-05-02, reported inspection results and 
further investigation have confirmed that the report of failed main 
rotor hub-to-mast attachment screws, which prompted EASA AD 2017-0032 
and AD 2021-05-02, was an isolated case which resulted from a 
maintenance mistake, and therefore no unsafe condition is likely to 
exist or develop on the affected helicopters. The FAA is issuing this 
AD to remove AD 2021-05-02.

Justification for Immediate Adoption and Determination of the Effective 
Date

    Section 553(b)(3)(B) of the Administrative Procedure Act (APA) (5 
U.S.C. 551 et seq.) authorizes agencies to dispense with notice and 
comment

[[Page 62721]]

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 1,220 helicopters of U.S. registry affected by 
AD 2021-05-02. However, the FAA notes that AD 2021-05-02 requires 
unnecessary maintenance actions because the identified unsafe condition 
does not exist on these helicopters. Therefore, it is unlikely that the 
FAA would receive any adverse comments or useful information about this 
AD from U.S. operators that would cause a need for public comment prior 
to adoption. Accordingly, notice and opportunity for prior public 
comment are unnecessary, pursuant to 5 U.S.C. 553(b)(3)(B). In 
addition, for the foregoing reasons, 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.

FAA's Conclusions

    Upon further consideration, the FAA has determined that AD 2021-05-
02 is no longer necessary. Accordingly, this AD removes AD 2021-05-02. 
Removal of AD 2021-05-02 does not preclude the FAA from issuing another 
related action or commit the FAA to any course of action in the future.

Regulatory Flexibility Act

    The requirements of the Regulatory Flexibility Act (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 FAA has determined 
that it has good cause to adopt this rule without prior notice and 
comment, RFA analysis is not required.

Related Costs of Compliance

    This AD adds no cost. This AD removes AD 2021-05-02 from 14 CFR 
part 39; therefore, operators are no longer required to show compliance 
with that AD.

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.

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 that this AD:
    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.

Adoption of the Amendment

    Accordingly, under the authority delegated to me by the 
Administrator, the FAA amends 14 CFR part 39 as follows:

PART 39--AIRWORTHINESS DIRECTIVES

0
1. The authority citation for part 39 continues to read as follows:

    Authority:  49 U.S.C. 106(g), 40113, 44701.


Sec.  39.13  [Amended]

0
2. The FAA amends Sec.  39.13 by:
0
a. Removing Airworthiness Directive (AD) 2021-05-02, Amendment 39-21445 
(86 FR 13982, March 12, 2021), and
0
b. Adding the following new AD:

2021-05-02 Airbus Helicopters: Docket No. FAA-2020-1131; Project 
Identifier MCAI-2020-00613-R.

(a) Effective Date

    This airworthiness directive (AD) becomes effective November 12, 
2021.

(b) Affected AD

    This AD replaces AD 2021-05-02, Amendment 39-21445 (86 FR 13982, 
March 12, 2021).

(c) Applicability

    This action applies to all Airbus Helicopters, certificated in 
any category, as identified in paragraphs (c)(1) through (3) of this 
AD.
    (1) Model AS350B, AS350BA, AS350B1, AS350B2, AS350B3, AS350C, 
and AS350D helicopters.
    (2) Model AS355E, AS355F, AS355F1, AS355F2, AS355N, and AS355NP 
helicopters.
    (3) Model EC130B4 and EC130T2 helicopters.

(d) Subject

    Joint Aircraft System Component (JASC) Code 6200, Main Rotor 
System.

(e) Related Information

    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; phone: (202) 267-9167; email: [email protected].

(f) Material Incorporated by Reference

    None.

    Issued on November 4, 2021.
Lance T. Gant,
Director, Compliance & Airworthiness Division, Aircraft Certification 
Service.
[FR Doc. 2021-24544 Filed 11-10-21; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE 4910-13-P
This site is protected by reCAPTCHA and the Google Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply.