Airworthiness Directives; Leonardo S.p.a Helicopters, 68907-68910 [2021-26334]
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Federal Register / Vol. 86, No. 231 / Monday, December 6, 2021 / Rules and Regulations
test (NDT) inspection of propeller hub HO–
V 72 ( ) ( )–( )–( ) using paragraph 2.3 of the
SB.
(4) During each overhaul of propeller hub
HO–V 72 ( ) ( )–( )–( ) after the effective
date of this AD, perform an NDT inspection
using paragraph 2.3 of the SB.
(5) If, during any inspection required by
paragraph (g)(2), (3), or (4) of this AD, any
crack is detected, replace propeller hub HO–
V 72 ( ) ( )–( )–( ) with a part eligible for
installation.
The Amendment
Accordingly, under the authority
delegated to me by the Administrator,
the FAA amends 14 CFR part 39 as
follows:
PART 39—AIRWORTHINESS
DIRECTIVES
1. The authority citation for part 39
continues to read as follows:
■
Authority: 49 U.S.C. 106(g), 40113, 44701.
§ 39.13
[Amended]
2. The FAA amends § 39.13 by:
a. Removing Airworthiness Directive
2020–25–05, Amendment 39–21347 (85
FR 78702, December 7, 2020); and
■ b. Adding the following new
airworthiness directive:
■
■
2021–23–17 Hoffmann GmbH & Co. KG:
Amendment 39–21815; Docket No.
FAA–2021–0546; Project Identifier
MCAI–2021–00387–P.
(a) Effective Date
This airworthiness directive (AD) is
effective January 10, 2022.
(b) Affected ADs
This AD replaces AD 2020–25–05,
Amendment 39–21347 (85 FR 78702,
December 7, 2020).
(c) Applicability
This AD applies to all Hoffmann GmbH &
Co. KG model HO–V 72 propellers.
(d) Subject
Joint Aircraft System Component (JASC)
Code 6114, Propeller Hub Section.
(e) Unsafe Condition
This AD was prompted by reports of cracks
at different positions on two affected
propeller hubs. The FAA is issuing this AD
to prevent failure of the propeller hub. The
unsafe condition, if not addressed, could
result in release of the propeller, damage to
the airplane, and injury to persons on the
ground.
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(f) Compliance
Comply with this AD within the
compliance times specified, unless already
done.
(g) Required Actions
(1) Before the next flight after December 22,
2020 (the effective date of AD 2020–25–05),
amend the existing aircraft flight manual by
inserting the procedure: ‘‘Abnormal propeller
vibrations: As applicable, reduce engine
RPM.’’
(2) Before the next flight after the effective
date of this AD, and thereafter, before the
next flight after any flight where abnormal
propeller vibrations have been experienced,
visually inspect propeller hub HO–V 72 ( )
( )–( )–( ) for cracks using paragraph 2.1 of
Hoffmann Propeller GmbH & Co. KG Service
Bulletin SB E53, Rev. D, dated February 18,
2021 (the SB).
(3) Within 20 flight hours after the effective
date of this AD, perform a non-destructive
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(h) Definition
For the purpose of this AD, a ‘‘part eligible
for installation’’ is a propeller hub HO–V 72
( ) ( )–( )–( ) with zero hours time since new
or a propeller hub HO–V 72 ( ) ( )–( )–( )
that has passed an NDT inspection using
paragraph 2.3 of the SB.
(i) Non-Required Actions
(1) Sending the propeller to Hoffmann for
investigation, as contained in paragraph 2.1
of the SB, is not required by this AD.
(2) Reporting propeller hubs with cracks to
Hoffmann, as contained in paragraph 2.3 of
the SB, is not required by this AD.
(j) Credit for Previous Actions
You may take credit for the initial visual
inspection and NDT inspection of the
propeller hub required by paragraphs (g)(2),
(3), and (4) of this AD if you performed any
of these actions before the effective date of
this AD using Hoffmann Propeller GmbH &
Co. KG SB E53, Rev. A, dated October 9,
2020; Rev. B, dated October 14, 2020; or Rev.
C, dated December 9, 2020.
(k) Special Flight Permit
A special flight permit may be issued in
accordance with 14 CFR 21.197 and 21.199
to operate the airplane to a service facility to
perform the NDT inspection. Special flight
permits are prohibited to perform the visual
inspection of the propeller hub.
(l) 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 (m)(1) 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.
(m) Related Information
(1) For more information about this AD,
contact Michael Schwetz, Aviation Safety
Engineer, Boston ACO Branch, FAA, 1200
District Avenue, Burlington, MA 01803;
phone: (781) 238–7761; fax: (781) 238–7199;
email: michael.schwetz@faa.gov.
(2) Refer to European Union Aviation
Safety Agency (EASA) AD 2020–0226R1,
dated March 31, 2021, for more information.
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68907
You may examine the EASA AD in the AD
docket at https://www.regulations.gov by
searching for and locating Docket No. FAA–
2021–0546.
(n) 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) Hoffmann Propeller GmbH & Co. KG
(Hoffmann) Service Bulletin SB E53, Rev. D,
dated February 18, 2021.
(ii) [Reserved]
(3) For Hoffmann service information
identified in this AD, contact Hoffmann
GmbH & Co. KG, Ku¨pferlingstrasse 9, 83022,
Rosenheim, Germany; phone: +49 0 8031
1878 0; email: info@hoffmann-prop.com;
website: https://hoffmann-prop.com.
(4) 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.
(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 November 4, 2021.
Lance T. Gant,
Director, Compliance & Airworthiness
Division, Aircraft Certification Service.
[FR Doc. 2021–26365 Filed 12–3–21; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE 4910–13–P
DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION
Federal Aviation Administration
14 CFR Part 39
[Docket No. FAA–2021–0720; Project
Identifier 2019–SW–079–AD; Amendment
39–21808; AD 2021–23–10]
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 AW109SP
helicopters. This AD was prompted by
reports of an ineligible hydraulic pump
being installed on Model AW109SP
helicopters. This AD requires inspecting
each hydraulic pump for damage and,
depending on the inspections results,
SUMMARY:
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Federal Register / Vol. 86, No. 231 / Monday, December 6, 2021 / Rules and Regulations
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removing parts from service and
accomplishing other corrective actions.
This AD also requires removing certain
parts from service before they exceed
their life limits. The corrective actions
are required to be accomplished as
specified in a European Union Aviation
Safety Agency (EASA) AD, which is
incorporated by reference. The FAA is
issuing this AD to address the unsafe
condition on these products.
DATES: This AD is effective February 4,
2022.
The Director of the Federal Register
approved the incorporation by reference
of a certain publication listed in this AD
as of January 10, 2022.
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. 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–
0720.
Examining the AD Docket
You may examine the AD docket at
https://www.regulations.gov by
searching for and locating Docket No.
FAA–2021–0720; 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 EASA AD, 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:
Darren Gassetto, Aerospace Engineer,
COS Program Management Section,
Operational Safety Branch, Compliance
& Airworthiness Division, FAA, 1600
Stewart Ave., Suite 410, Westbury, NY
11590; telephone (516) 228–7323; email
Darren.Gassetto@faa.gov.
SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION:
Background
EASA, which is the Technical Agent
for the Member States of the European
Union, has issued EASA AD 2019–0213,
dated August 29, 2019 (EASA AD 2019–
VerDate Sep<11>2014
15:44 Dec 03, 2021
Jkt 256001
0213), to correct an unsafe condition for
Leonardo S.p.a. (formerly Finmeccanica
S.p.A. Helicopter Division,
AgustaWestland S.p.A, Agusta S.p.A.)
Model AW109SP helicopters.
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
AW109SP helicopters. The NPRM
published in the Federal Register on
September 8, 2021 (86 FR 50289). The
NPRM was prompted by reports of a
hydraulic pump part number (P/N) 109–
0760–42–103 being ineligibly installed
on Model AW109SP helicopters. EASA
advises that because hydraulic pump P/
N 109–0760–42–103 is not eligible for
installation on Model AW109SP
helicopters, applicable instructions for
continued airworthiness are not
available. The NPRM proposed to
require accomplishing the actions
specified in EASA AD 2019–0213,
described previously, as incorporated by
reference, except for any differences
identified as exceptions in the
regulatory text of the proposed AD and
except as discussed under ‘‘Differences
Between this Proposed AD and EASA
AD 2019–0213.’’
The FAA is issuing this AD to address
the ineligible installation of the affected
part-numbered hydraulic pump on
Model AW109SP helicopters since there
are no applicable instructions for
continuing airworthiness available. See
EASA AD 2019–0213 for additional
background information.
Discussion of Final Airworthiness
Directive
Comments
The FAA received no comments on
the NPRM or on the determination of
the costs.
Conclusion
These helicopters have been approved
by EASA and are approved for operation
in the United States. Pursuant to the
FAA’s bilateral agreement with the
European Union, EASA has notified the
FAA about the unsafe condition
described in its AD. The FAA reviewed
the relevant data 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 helicopters. Except
for minor editorial changes, this AD is
adopted as proposed in the NPRM.
Related Service Information Under 1
CFR Part 51
EASA AD 2019–0213 requires
inspecting each affected hydraulic
pump and depending on the inspection
results, replacing an affected hydraulic
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pump with a serviceable hydraulic
pump, before further flight. EASA AD
2019–0213 also requires replacing any
affected hydraulic pump before
exceeding 1,600 total flight hours (FH)
since first installation on a helicopter, or
within 200 FH, whichever occurs later.
Finally, EASA AD 2019–0213 prohibits
installing any affected hydraulic pump
on any helicopter.
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 the ADDRESSES section.
Other Related Service Information
The FAA also reviewed Leonardo
S.p.a. Helicopters, Alert Service Bulletin
No. 109SP–134, dated July 29, 2019.
This service information specifies
procedures for inspecting and replacing
hydraulic pump P/N 109–0760–42–103.
Differences Between This AD and EASA
AD 2019–0213
EASA AD 2019–0213 applies to
Model AW109SP helicopters, all serial
numbers, whereas this AD only applies
to Model AW109SP helicopters with
certain part-numbered hydraulic pumps
installed.
Costs of Compliance
The FAA estimates that this AD
affects 17 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.
Visually inspecting each hydraulic
pump for wear, burrs, and abrasion
takes about 4 work-hours and parts cost
about $5 for an estimated cost of $345
per inspection and $5,865 for the U.S.
fleet.
Removing from service each affected
hydraulic pump and replacing with an
airworthy hydraulic pump takes about 6
work-hours and parts cost about $22,819
for an estimated cost of $23,329 per
pump replacement.
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.
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Federal Register / Vol. 86, No. 231 / Monday, December 6, 2021 / Rules and Regulations
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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■
2021–23–10 Leonardo S.p.a.: Amendment
39–21808; Docket No. FAA–2021–0720;
Project Identifier 2019–SW–079–AD.
(a) Effective Date
This airworthiness directive (AD) is
effective January 10, 2022.
(b) Affected ADs
None.
VerDate Sep<11>2014
15:44 Dec 03, 2021
Jkt 256001
68909
(c) Applicability
(j) Special Flight Permit
This AD applies to Leonardo S.p.a. Model
AW109SP helicopters, certificated in any
category, with an affected part as identified
in European Union Aviation Safety Agency
(EASA) AD 2019–0213, dated August 29,
2019 (EASA AD 2019–0213).
Special flight permits, as described in 14
CFR 21.197 and 21.199, are prohibited.
(k) Alternative Methods of Compliance
(AMOCs)
This AD was prompted by reports of the
ineligible installation of hydraulic pump part
number (P/N) 109–0760–42–103 on Model
AW109SP helicopters resulting in the
applicable instructions for continued
airworthiness not being available. The FAA
is issuing this AD to address this unsafe
condition. The unsafe condition, if not
addressed, could result in failure of the
hydraulic pump and subsequent loss of
control of the helicopter.
(1) The Manager, International Validation
Branch, FAA, has the authority to approve
AMOCs for this AD, if requested using the
procedures found in 14 CFR 39.19. In
accordance with 14 CFR 39.19, send your
request to your principal inspector or local
Flight Standards District Office, as
appropriate. If sending information directly
to the manager of the International Validation
Branch, send it to the attention of the person
identified in paragraph (l) of this AD.
Information may be emailed to: 9-AVS-AIR730-AMOC@faa.gov.
(2) Before using any approved AMOC,
notify your appropriate principal inspector,
or lacking a principal inspector, the manager
of the local flight standards district office/
certificate holding district office.
(f) Compliance
(l) Related Information
Comply with this AD within the
compliance times specified, unless already
done.
For more information about this AD,
contact Darren Gassetto, Aerospace Engineer,
COS Program Management Section,
Operational Safety Branch, Compliance &
Airworthiness Division, FAA, 1600 Stewart
Ave., Suite 410, Westbury, NY 11590;
telephone (516) 228–7323; email
Darren.Gassetto@faa.gov.
(d) Subject
Joint Aircraft Service Component (JASC)
Codes: 2913, Hydraulic Pump (Elect/Eng),
Main.
(e) Unsafe Condition
(g) Requirements
Except as specified in paragraph (h) of this
AD: Comply with all required actions and
compliance times specified in, and in
accordance with, EASA AD 2019–0213.
(h) Exceptions to EASA AD 2019–0213
(1) Where EASA AD 2019–0213 requires
compliance in terms of flight hours, this AD
requires using hours time-in-service (TIS).
(2) Where EASA AD 2019–0213 requires
compliance from its effective date, this AD
requires using the effective date of this AD.
(3) Where paragraph (2) of EASA AD 2019–
0213 specifies to replace a part if any
discrepancy is detected during the
inspection, this AD requires removing that
part from service.
(4) Where paragraph (3) of EASA AD 2019–
0213 specifies to replace a part before
exceeding 1,600 flight hours since first
installation on a helicopter, this AD requires
removing that part from service before 1,600
hours TIS since first installation on a
helicopter.
(5) Where the service information required
by EASA AD 2019–0213 specifies discarding
the o-ring and gasket, this AD requires
removing those parts from service.
(6) Where the service information required
by EASA AD 2019–0213 specifies recording
compliance with the service bulletin in the
helicopter logbook, this AD does not include
that requirement.
(7) This AD does not require the
‘‘Remarks’’ section of EASA AD 2019–0213.
(i) No Reporting Requirement
Although the service information
referenced in EASA AD 2019–0213 specifies
to submit certain information to the
manufacturer, this AD does not include that
requirement.
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(m) 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 2019–0213, dated August 29,
2019.
(ii) [Reserved].
(3) For EASA AD 2019–0213, 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.
(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–2021–0720.
(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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Federal Register / Vol. 86, No. 231 / Monday, December 6, 2021 / Rules and Regulations
Issued on October 28, 2021.
Lance T. Gant,
Director, Compliance & Airworthiness
Division, Aircraft Certification Service.
[FR Doc. 2021–26334 Filed 12–3–21; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE 4910–13–P
DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION
Federal Aviation Administration
14 CFR Part 39
[Docket No. FAA–2021–0338; Project
Identifier AD–2020–01423–T; Amendment
39–21820; AD 2021–23–21]
RIN 2120–AA64
Airworthiness Directives; The Boeing
Company Airplanes
Federal Aviation
Administration (FAA), DOT.
ACTION: Final rule.
AGENCY:
The FAA is adopting a new
airworthiness directive (AD) for certain
The Boeing Company Model 787–8 and
787–9 airplanes. This AD was prompted
by reports that shimming requirements
were not met during the assembly of
certain structural joints, which can
result in reduced fatigue thresholds and
cracking of the affected structural joints.
This AD requires repetitive inspections
for cracking of certain areas of the aft
wheel well bulkhead (AWWB) body
chord and AWWB side fitting and
failsafe straps, and repair of any
cracking found. The FAA is issuing this
AD to address the unsafe condition on
these products.
DATES: This AD is effective January 10,
2022.
The Director of the Federal Register
approved the incorporation by reference
of certain publications listed in this AD
as of January 10, 2022.
ADDRESSES: For service information
identified in this final rule, contact
Boeing Commercial Airplanes,
Attention: Contractual & Data Services
(C&DS), 2600 Westminster Blvd., MC
110–SK57, Seal Beach, CA 90740–5600;
telephone 562–797–1717; internet
https://www.myboeingfleet.com. You
may view this service information 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.
It is also available at https://
www.regulations.gov by searching for
and locating Docket No. FAA–2021–
0338.
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SUMMARY:
VerDate Sep<11>2014
15:44 Dec 03, 2021
Jkt 256001
Examining the AD Docket
You may examine the AD docket at
https://www.regulations.gov by
searching for and locating Docket No.
FAA–2021–0338; 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: Greg
Rutar, Aerospace Engineer, Airframe
Section, FAA, Seattle ACO Branch, 2200
South 216th St., Des Moines, WA 98198;
phone and fax: 206–231–3529; email:
Greg.Rutar@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 certain The Boeing Company
Model 787–8 and 787–9 airplanes. The
NPRM published in the Federal
Register on May 10, 2021 (86 FR 24778).
The NPRM was prompted by reports
that shimming requirements were not
met during the assembly of certain
structural joints, which can result in
reduced fatigue thresholds and cracking
of the affected structural joints. In the
NPRM, the FAA proposed to require
repetitive inspections for cracking of
certain areas of the AWWB body chord
and AWWB side fitting and failsafe
straps, and repair of any cracking found.
The FAA is issuing this AD to address
undetected fatigue cracking, which
could weaken primary structure so it
cannot sustain limit load, and could
result in reduced structural integrity of
the airplane.
Discussion of Final Airworthiness
Directive
Comments
The FAA received a comment from
United Airlines who supported the
NPRM without change.
The FAA received additional
comments from two commenters,
including Avianca Airlines (AVA) and
Boeing. The following presents the
comments received on the NPRM and
the FAA’s response to each comment.
Request To Use Alternative Repair
Method
AVA asked that the FAA change the
following language used in paragraph
(h)(3) of the proposed AD ‘‘This AD
requires doing the repair using a method
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approved in accordance with the
procedures specified in paragraph (i) of
this AD.’’ AVA stated that this means
submitting a request for an alternative
method of compliance (AMOC) is
required in accordance with paragraph
(i)(3) of the proposed AD. AVA added
that the proposed repair is based on the
time delay required to obtain an AMOC
letter, which affects the operational
return to service of the affected aircraft,
and noted that a Form 8100–9 is already
an approved document that certifies
compliance with the airworthiness
standard. AVA proposed that only an
8100–9 approval form be required for
doing a repair after contacting Boeing.
The FAA does not agree with the
commenter’s request. An FAA Form
8100–9, which is both a repair data
approval and AMOC approval, may be
issued by the Boeing Company
Organization Designation Authorization
(ODA), provided it has been authorized
by the Manager, Seattle ACO Branch,
FAA, as required by paragraph (i)(3) of
this AD. Therefore, the FAA has not
changed this AD in this regard.
Request To Use Later Revision of the
Service Information
AVA asked that the FAA include a
paragraph in the proposed AD that
approves any further revision or issue of
Boeing Alert Requirements Bulletins
B787–81205–SB530077–00 RB and
B787–81205–SB530078–00 RB, both
Issue 001, both dated September 8,
2020, for compliance with the proposed
AD.
The FAA does not agree with the
commenter’s request. The FAA may not
in an AD refer to any document that
does not yet exist. In general terms, the
FAA is required by Office of the Federal
Register (OFR) regulations for approval
of materials incorporated by reference,
as specified in 1 CFR 51.1(f), to either
publish the service document contents
as part of the actual AD language; or
submit the service document to the OFR
for approval as referenced material, in
which case the FAA may only refer to
such material in the text of an AD. The
AD may refer to the service document
only if the OFR approved it for
incorporation by reference. See 1 CFR
part 51.
To allow operators to use later
revisions of the referenced document
(issued after publication of the AD),
either the FAA must revise the AD to
reference specific later revisions, or
operators must request approval to use
later revisions as an alternative method
of compliance with this AD under the
provisions of paragraph (i) of this AD.
E:\FR\FM\06DER1.SGM
06DER1
]]>Agencies
[Federal Register Volume 86, Number 231 (Monday, December 6, 2021)]
[Rules and Regulations]
[Pages 68907-68910]
From the Federal Register Online via the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]
[FR Doc No: 2021-26334]
-----------------------------------------------------------------------
DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION
Federal Aviation Administration
14 CFR Part 39
[Docket No. FAA-2021-0720; Project Identifier 2019-SW-079-AD; Amendment
39-21808; AD 2021-23-10]
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 AW109SP helicopters. This AD was prompted
by reports of an ineligible hydraulic pump being installed on Model
AW109SP helicopters. This AD requires inspecting each hydraulic pump
for damage and, depending on the inspections results,
[[Page 68908]]
removing parts from service and accomplishing other corrective actions.
This AD also requires removing certain parts from service before they
exceed their life limits. The corrective actions are required to be
accomplished as specified in a European Union Aviation Safety Agency
(EASA) AD, which is incorporated by reference. The FAA is issuing this
AD to address the unsafe condition on these products.
DATES: This AD is effective February 4, 2022.
The Director of the Federal Register approved the incorporation by
reference of a certain publication listed in this AD as of January 10,
2022.
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. 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-2021-0720.
Examining the AD Docket
You may examine the AD docket at https://www.regulations.gov by
searching for and locating Docket No. FAA-2021-0720; 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
EASA AD, 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: Darren Gassetto, Aerospace Engineer,
COS Program Management Section, Operational Safety Branch, Compliance &
Airworthiness Division, FAA, 1600 Stewart Ave., Suite 410, Westbury, NY
11590; telephone (516) 228-7323; email [email protected].
SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION:
Background
EASA, which is the Technical Agent for the Member States of the
European Union, has issued EASA AD 2019-0213, dated August 29, 2019
(EASA AD 2019-0213), to correct an unsafe condition for Leonardo S.p.a.
(formerly Finmeccanica S.p.A. Helicopter Division, AgustaWestland
S.p.A, Agusta S.p.A.) Model AW109SP helicopters.
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 AW109SP helicopters. The NPRM published in the Federal Register
on September 8, 2021 (86 FR 50289). The NPRM was prompted by reports of
a hydraulic pump part number (P/N) 109-0760-42-103 being ineligibly
installed on Model AW109SP helicopters. EASA advises that because
hydraulic pump P/N 109-0760-42-103 is not eligible for installation on
Model AW109SP helicopters, applicable instructions for continued
airworthiness are not available. The NPRM proposed to require
accomplishing the actions specified in EASA AD 2019-0213, described
previously, as incorporated by reference, except for any differences
identified as exceptions in the regulatory text of the proposed AD and
except as discussed under ``Differences Between this Proposed AD and
EASA AD 2019-0213.''
The FAA is issuing this AD to address the ineligible installation
of the affected part-numbered hydraulic pump on Model AW109SP
helicopters since there are no applicable instructions for continuing
airworthiness available. See EASA AD 2019-0213 for additional
background information.
Discussion of Final Airworthiness Directive
Comments
The FAA received no comments on the NPRM or on the determination of
the costs.
Conclusion
These helicopters have been approved by EASA and are approved for
operation in the United States. Pursuant to the FAA's bilateral
agreement with the European Union, EASA has notified the FAA about the
unsafe condition described in its AD. The FAA reviewed the relevant
data 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 helicopters. Except for minor editorial changes,
this AD is adopted as proposed in the NPRM.
Related Service Information Under 1 CFR Part 51
EASA AD 2019-0213 requires inspecting each affected hydraulic pump
and depending on the inspection results, replacing an affected
hydraulic pump with a serviceable hydraulic pump, before further
flight. EASA AD 2019-0213 also requires replacing any affected
hydraulic pump before exceeding 1,600 total flight hours (FH) since
first installation on a helicopter, or within 200 FH, whichever occurs
later. Finally, EASA AD 2019-0213 prohibits installing any affected
hydraulic pump on any helicopter.
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 the ADDRESSES section.
Other Related Service Information
The FAA also reviewed Leonardo S.p.a. Helicopters, Alert Service
Bulletin No. 109SP-134, dated July 29, 2019. This service information
specifies procedures for inspecting and replacing hydraulic pump P/N
109-0760-42-103.
Differences Between This AD and EASA AD 2019-0213
EASA AD 2019-0213 applies to Model AW109SP helicopters, all serial
numbers, whereas this AD only applies to Model AW109SP helicopters with
certain part-numbered hydraulic pumps installed.
Costs of Compliance
The FAA estimates that this AD affects 17 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.
Visually inspecting each hydraulic pump for wear, burrs, and
abrasion takes about 4 work-hours and parts cost about $5 for an
estimated cost of $345 per inspection and $5,865 for the U.S. fleet.
Removing from service each affected hydraulic pump and replacing
with an airworthy hydraulic pump takes about 6 work-hours and parts
cost about $22,819 for an estimated cost of $23,329 per pump
replacement.
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.
[[Page 68909]]
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:
2021-23-10 Leonardo S.p.a.: Amendment 39-21808; Docket No. FAA-2021-
0720; Project Identifier 2019-SW-079-AD.
(a) Effective Date
This airworthiness directive (AD) is effective January 10, 2022.
(b) Affected ADs
None.
(c) Applicability
This AD applies to Leonardo S.p.a. Model AW109SP helicopters,
certificated in any category, with an affected part as identified in
European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) AD 2019-0213, dated
August 29, 2019 (EASA AD 2019-0213).
(d) Subject
Joint Aircraft Service Component (JASC) Codes: 2913, Hydraulic
Pump (Elect/Eng), Main.
(e) Unsafe Condition
This AD was prompted by reports of the ineligible installation
of hydraulic pump part number (P/N) 109-0760-42-103 on Model AW109SP
helicopters resulting in the applicable instructions for continued
airworthiness not being available. The FAA is issuing this AD to
address this unsafe condition. The unsafe condition, if not
addressed, could result in failure of the hydraulic pump and
subsequent loss of control of the helicopter.
(f) Compliance
Comply with this AD within the compliance times specified,
unless already done.
(g) Requirements
Except as specified in paragraph (h) of this AD: Comply with all
required actions and compliance times specified in, and in
accordance with, EASA AD 2019-0213.
(h) Exceptions to EASA AD 2019-0213
(1) Where EASA AD 2019-0213 requires compliance in terms of
flight hours, this AD requires using hours time-in-service (TIS).
(2) Where EASA AD 2019-0213 requires compliance from its
effective date, this AD requires using the effective date of this
AD.
(3) Where paragraph (2) of EASA AD 2019-0213 specifies to
replace a part if any discrepancy is detected during the inspection,
this AD requires removing that part from service.
(4) Where paragraph (3) of EASA AD 2019-0213 specifies to
replace a part before exceeding 1,600 flight hours since first
installation on a helicopter, this AD requires removing that part
from service before 1,600 hours TIS since first installation on a
helicopter.
(5) Where the service information required by EASA AD 2019-0213
specifies discarding the o-ring and gasket, this AD requires
removing those parts from service.
(6) Where the service information required by EASA AD 2019-0213
specifies recording compliance with the service bulletin in the
helicopter logbook, this AD does not include that requirement.
(7) This AD does not require the ``Remarks'' section of EASA AD
2019-0213.
(i) No Reporting Requirement
Although the service information referenced in EASA AD 2019-0213
specifies to submit certain information to the manufacturer, this AD
does not include that requirement.
(j) Special Flight Permit
Special flight permits, as described in 14 CFR 21.197 and
21.199, are prohibited.
(k) Alternative Methods of Compliance (AMOCs)
(1) The Manager, International Validation Branch, FAA, has the
authority to approve AMOCs for this AD, if requested using the
procedures found in 14 CFR 39.19. In accordance with 14 CFR 39.19,
send your request to your principal inspector or local Flight
Standards District Office, as appropriate. If sending information
directly to the manager of the International Validation Branch, send
it to the attention of the person identified in paragraph (l) of
this AD. Information may be emailed to: [email protected].
(2) Before using any approved AMOC, notify your appropriate
principal inspector, or lacking a principal inspector, the manager
of the local flight standards district office/certificate holding
district office.
(l) Related Information
For more information about this AD, contact Darren Gassetto,
Aerospace Engineer, COS Program Management Section, Operational
Safety Branch, Compliance & Airworthiness Division, FAA, 1600
Stewart Ave., Suite 410, Westbury, NY 11590; telephone (516) 228-
7323; email [email protected].
(m) 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 2019-0213,
dated August 29, 2019.
(ii) [Reserved].
(3) For EASA AD 2019-0213, 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.
(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-2021-0720.
(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.
[[Page 68910]]
Issued on October 28, 2021.
Lance T. Gant,
Director, Compliance & Airworthiness Division, Aircraft Certification
Service.
[FR Doc. 2021-26334 Filed 12-3-21; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE 4910-13-P
