Airworthiness Directives; Airbus Helicopters Deutschland GmbH Helicopters, 70361-70364 [2021-26679]
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Federal Register / Vol. 86, No. 235 / Friday, December 10, 2021 / Rules and Regulations
issuing this AD to address broken and bent
attachment bolts of the MR hub scissors
assembly, which could lead to detachment of
a MR hub scissors attachment bolt, possibly
resulting in complete 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 2021–0046.
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(h) Exceptions to EASA AD 2021–0046
(1) Where EASA AD 2021–0046 refers to its
effective date, this AD requires using the
effective date of this AD.
(2) Where EASA AD 2021–0046 refers to
September 05, 2018 (the effective date of
EASA AD 2018–0186), this AD requires using
May 7, 2021 (the effective date of AD 2021–
04–21).
(3) This AD does not mandate compliance
with the ‘‘Remarks’’ section of EASA AD
2021–0046.
(4) Where the service information
referenced in EASA AD 2021–0046 specifies
to discard certain parts, this AD requires
removing those parts from service.
(5) Where EASA AD 2021–0046 refers to
flight hours (FH), this AD requires using
hours time-in-service.
(6) Paragraphs (3) and (4) of EASA AD
2021–0046 refer to ‘‘discrepancies.’’ For this
AD, discrepancies include corrosion, fretting,
wear, cracking, bolt play, twist, shearing,
rupture, and bolt tightening torque.
(7) Where EASA AD 2021–0046 specifies
to contact the manufacturer for repair
instructions, this AD requires the repair to be
done in accordance with a method approved
by the Manager, General Aviation and
Rotorcraft Section, International Validation
Branch, FAA; or EASA; or Airbus
Helicopter’s EASA Design Organization
Approval (DOA). If approved by the DOA,
the approval must include the DOAauthorized signature.
(8) Paragraph (5) of EASA AD 2021–0046
specifies to report inspection results to
Airbus Helicopters within a certain
compliance time. For this AD, report
inspection results at the applicable time
specified in paragraph (h)(8)(i) or (ii) of this
AD.
(i) If the inspection was done on or after
May 7, 2021 (the effective date of AD 2021–
04–21): Submit the report within 30 days
after the inspection.
(ii) If the inspection was done before May
7, 2021 (the effective date of AD 2021–04–
21): Submit the report within 30 days after
May 7, 2021.
(i) Special Flight Permit
Special flight permits, as described in 14
CFR 21.197 and 21.199, are not allowed.
(j) Alternative Methods of Compliance
(AMOCs)
(1) The Manager, International Validation
Branch, FAA, has the authority to approve
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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 (k) of this AD.
Information may be emailed to: 9-AVS-AIR730-AMOC@faa.gov.
(2) Before using any approved AMOC,
notify your appropriate principal inspector,
or lacking a principal inspector, the manager
of the local flight standards district office/
certificate holding district office.
(k) Related Information
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.
(l) Material Incorporated by Reference
(1) The Director of the Federal Register
approved the incorporation by reference
(IBR) of the service information listed in this
paragraph under 5 U.S.C. 552(a) and 1 CFR
part 51.
(2) You must use this service information
as applicable to do the actions required by
this AD, unless this AD specifies otherwise.
(i) European Union Aviation Safety Agency
(EASA) AD 2021–0046, dated February 12,
2021.
(ii) [Reserved]
(3) For EASA AD 2021–0046, contact the
EASA, Konrad-Adenauer-Ufer 3, 50668
Cologne, Germany; phone: +49 221 8999 000;
email: ADs@easa.europa.eu; Internet:
www.easa.europa.eu. You may find this
EASA AD on the EASA website at https://
ad.easa.europa.eu.
(4) You may view this service information
at the FAA, Office of the Regional Counsel,
Southwest Region, 10101 Hillwood Pkwy.,
Room 6N–321, Fort Worth, TX 76177. For
information on the availability of this
material at the FAA, call 817–222–5110. This
material may be found in the AD docket on
the internet at https://www.regulations.gov
by searching for and locating Docket No.
FAA–2021–0829.
(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.
Issued on November 15, 2021.
Lance T. Gant,
Director, Compliance & Airworthiness
Division, Aircraft Certification Service.
[FR Doc. 2021–26680 Filed 12–9–21; 8:45 am]
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70361
DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION
Federal Aviation Administration
14 CFR Part 39
[Docket No. FAA–2021–0826; Project
Identifier MCAI–2021–00300–R; Amendment
39–21826; AD 2021–24–05]
RIN 2120–AA64
Airworthiness Directives; Airbus
Helicopters Deutschland GmbH
Helicopters
Federal Aviation
Administration (FAA), DOT.
ACTION: Final rule.
AGENCY:
The FAA is adopting a new
airworthiness directive (AD) for certain
Airbus Helicopters Deutschland GmbH
Model EC135P2+, EC135P3, EC135T2+,
and EC135T3 helicopters. This AD was
prompted by reports that certain aft and
forward fitting assemblies, which are
not approved for installation on certain
helicopters, were installed on those
helicopters as part of the outboard load
system. Operators of those helicopters
might not be aware of the applicable
overhaul or life limits for those fitting
assemblies. This AD requires inspecting
the aft and forward fitting assemblies of
the outboard load system to determine
the part number, re-identifying the part
if necessary, inspecting each affected
part for damage (which may be
indicated by signs of corrosion,
mechanical damage, loose rivets, or
cracks) and, depending on the findings,
corrective actions, as specified in a
European Union Aviation Safety Agency
(EASA) AD, which is incorporated by
reference. The FAA is issuing this AD
to address the unsafe condition on these
products.
DATES: This AD is effective January 14,
2022.
The Director of the Federal Register
approved the incorporation by reference
of a certain publication listed in this AD
as of January 14, 2022.
ADDRESSES: For EASA material
incorporated by reference (IBR) in this
AD, contact EASA, Konrad-AdenauerUfer 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://
SUMMARY:
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70362
Federal Register / Vol. 86, No. 235 / Friday, December 10, 2021 / Rules and Regulations
www.regulations.gov by searching for
and locating Docket No. FAA–2021–
0826.
Examining the AD Docket
You may examine the AD docket at
https://www.regulations.gov by
searching for and locating Docket No.
FAA–2021–0826; 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 2021–0066,
dated March 8, 2021 (EASA AD 2021–
0066), to correct an unsafe condition for
Airbus Helicopters Deutschland GmbH
(formerly Eurocopter Deutschland
GmbH and Eurocopter Espan˜a S.A.)
Model EC135 P2+, EC135 P3, EC135
T2+, EC135 T3, EC635 P2+, EC635 P3,
EC635 T1, EC635 T2+, and EC635 T3
helicopters, serial numbers (S/Ns) 0866
to 1166 inclusive, except S/Ns 1007,
1102, and 1145, and except helicopters
on which Airbus Helicopters Service
Bulletin EC135–85–063 has been
embodied in service. Model EC635 P2+,
EC635 P3, EC635 T1, EC635 T2+, and
EC635 T3 helicopters are not
certificated by the FAA and are not
included on the U.S. type certificate
data sheet, except where the U.S. type
certificate data sheet explains that the
Model EC635T2+ helicopter having
serial number 0858 was converted from
Model EC635T2+ to Model EC135T2+.
This AD, therefore, does not include
Model EC635 P2+, EC635 P3, EC635 T1,
EC635 T2+, and EC635 T3 helicopters in
the applicability.
The FAA issued a notice of proposed
rulemaking (NPRM) to amend 14 CFR
part 39 by adding an AD that would
apply to certain Airbus Helicopters
Deutschland GmbH Model EC135P2+,
EC135P3, EC135T2+, and EC135T3
helicopters. The NPRM published in the
Federal Register on September 23, 2021
(86 FR 52851). The NPRM was
prompted by reports that aft and
forward fitting assemblies, having part
number L851M2810103, were installed
as part of the outboard load system on
helicopters having S/Ns 0886 and up.
The affected fitting assemblies are not
approved for installation on helicopters
having those serial numbers. Operators
of those helicopters might not be aware
of the applicable overhaul or life limits
for those fitting assemblies. The NPRM
proposed to require inspecting the aft
and forward fitting assemblies of the
outboard load system to determine the
part number, re-identifying the part if
necessary, inspecting each affected part
for damage (which may be indicated by
signs of corrosion, mechanical damage,
loose rivets, or cracks) and, depending
on the findings, corrective actions, as
specified in EASA AD 2021–0066.
The FAA is issuing this AD to address
failure of affected aft and forward fitting
assemblies and consequent loss of
external cargo, resulting in personal
injury or injury to persons on the
ground. See EASA AD 2021–0066 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 2021–0066 requires a
onetime inspection of each aft and
forward fitting assembly of the outboard
load system to identify the part number,
re-identifying the part number if
necessary, a one-time inspection of an
affected fitting assembly for damage,
and corrective action. The corrective
action includes replacing any damaged
fitting.
This material is reasonably available
because the interested parties have
access to it through their normal course
of business or by the means identified
in the ADDRESSES section.
Costs of Compliance
The FAA estimates that this AD
affects 69 helicopters of U.S. Registry.
The FAA estimates the following costs
to comply with this AD.
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ESTIMATED COSTS
Action
Labor cost
Inspection to determine fitting assembly part
number.
0.50 work-hour × $85 per hour = $42.50 .......
The FAA estimates the following
costs to do any necessary actions that
would be required based on the results
of the inspection. The agency has no
way of determining the number of
Cost per
product
Parts cost
$0
Cost on U.S.
operators
$42.50
$2,932.50
helicopters that might need these
actions:
ON-CONDITION COSTS
Action
Labor cost
Re-identification of affected fitting assembly with part
number.
0.25 work-hour × $85 per hour = $21.25 .....................
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Cost per
product
Parts cost
10DER1
$0
$21.25
Federal Register / Vol. 86, No. 235 / Friday, December 10, 2021 / Rules and Regulations
70363
ON-CONDITION COSTS—Continued
Action
Labor cost
Detailed inspection of affected fitting assembly ...........
Replacement of damaged affected fitting assembly ....
1.75 work-hours × $85 per hour = $148.75 .................
1.50 work-hours × $85 per hour = $127.50 .................
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.
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List of Subjects in 14 CFR Part 39
Air transportation, Aircraft, Aviation
safety, Incorporation by reference,
Safety.
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:
■
2021–24–05 Airbus Helicopters
Deutschland GmbH: Amendment 39–
21826; Docket No. FAA–2021–0826;
Project Identifier MCAI–2021–00300–R.
(a) Effective Date
This airworthiness directive (AD) is
effective January 14, 2022.
(b) Affected ADs
None.
(c) Applicability
This AD applies to Airbus Helicopters
Deutschland GmbH Model EC135P2+,
EC135P3, EC135T2+, and EC135T3
helicopters, certificated in any category, as
identified in European Union Aviation Safety
Agency (EASA) AD 2021–0066, dated March
8, 2021 (EASA AD 2021–0066).
(d) Subject
Joint Aircraft Service Component (JASC)
Code: 2550, Cargo Compartments.
(e) Unsafe Condition
This AD was prompted by reports that
certain aft and forward fitting assemblies,
which are not approved for installation on
certain helicopters, were installed on those
helicopters as part of the outboard load
system. Operators of those helicopters might
not be aware of the applicable overhaul or
life limits for those fitting assemblies. The
FAA is issuing this AD to address failure of
affected aft and forward fitting assemblies
and consequent loss of external cargo,
resulting in personal injury or injury to
persons on the ground.
(f) Compliance
Comply with this AD within the
compliance times specified, unless already
done.
The Amendment
(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 2021–0066.
Accordingly, under the authority
delegated to me by the Administrator,
the FAA amends 14 CFR part 39 as
follows:
(h) Exceptions to EASA AD 2021–0066
(1) Where EASA AD 2021–0066 requires
compliance in terms of flight hours, this AD
requires using hours time-in-service.
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Parts cost
0
1,363
Cost per
product
148.75
1,490.50
(2) Where EASA AD 2021–0066 refers to its
effective date, this AD requires using the
effective date of this AD.
(3) Where paragraph (4) of, and the service
information referenced in, EASA AD 2021–
0066, specify contacting Airbus Helicopters
Deutschland GmbH for applicable
instructions if any damage (which may be
indicated by signs of corrosion, mechanical
damage, loose rivets, or cracks) is found, the
corrective action must be accomplished using
a method approved by the Manager, General
Aviation & Rotorcraft Section, International
Validation Branch, FAA; or EASA; or Airbus
Helicopters Deutschland GmbH EASA Design
Organization Approval (DOA). If approved by
the DOA, the approval must include the
DOA-authorized signature.
(4) Where the service information
referenced in EASA AD 2021–0066 specifies
to discard certain parts, this AD requires
removing those parts from service.
(5) This AD does not mandate compliance
with the ‘‘Remarks’’ section of EASA AD
2021–0066.
(i) No Reporting Requirement
Although the service information
referenced in EASA AD 2021–0066 specifies
to submit certain information to the
manufacturer, this AD does not include that
requirement.
(j) Special Flight Permit
Special flight permits may be issued in
accordance with 14 CFR 21.197 and 21.199
to operate the helicopter to a location where
the helicopter can be inspected (if the
operator elects to do so), provided the
outboard load system is not used until the
applicable corrective actions required by
paragraph (4) of EASA AD 2021–0066 are
completed.
(k) Alternative Methods of Compliance
(AMOCs)
(1) The Manager, International Validation
Branch, FAA, has the authority to approve
AMOCs for this AD, if requested using the
procedures found in 14 CFR 39.19. In
accordance with 14 CFR 39.19, send your
request to your principal inspector or local
Flight Standards District Office, as
appropriate. If sending information directly
to the manager of the International Validation
Branch, send it to the attention of the person
identified in paragraph (l) of this AD.
Information may be emailed to: 9-AVS-AIR730-AMOC@faa.gov.
(2) Before using any approved AMOC,
notify your appropriate principal inspector,
or lacking a principal inspector, the manager
of the local flight standards district office/
certificate holding district office.
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(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
Darren.Gassetto@faa.gov.
(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 2021–0066, dated March 8, 2021.
(ii) [Reserved]
(3) For EASA AD 2021–0066, dated March
8, 2021, contact the EASA, KonradAdenauer-Ufer 3, 50668 Cologne, Germany;
telephone +49 221 8999 000; email ADs@
easa.europa.eu; internet
www.easa.europa.eu. You may find the
EASA 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–2021–0826.
(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.
Issued on November 10, 2021.
Lance T. Gant,
Director, Compliance & Airworthiness
Division, Aircraft Certification Service.
[FR Doc. 2021–26679 Filed 12–9–21; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE 4910–13–P
DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION
Federal Aviation Administration
14 CFR Part 39
[Docket No. FAA–2021–0606; Project
Identifier 2019–SW–070–AD; Amendment
39–21832; AD 2021–24–11]
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RIN 2120–AA64
Airworthiness Directives; Leonardo
S.p.a. Helicopters
Federal Aviation
Administration (FAA), DOT.
ACTION: Final rule.
AGENCY:
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The FAA is adopting a new
airworthiness directive (AD) for certain
Leonardo S.p.a. Model A109E, A109S,
and AW109SP helicopters. This AD was
prompted by reports of main landing
gear (MLG) wheel assembly failure. This
AD requires repetitive inspections of
each affected MLG strut assembly and,
depending on the findings, replacement
of an affected MLG strut assembly with
a serviceable assembly, or application of
corrosion preventive compound, 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 January 14,
2022.
The Director of the Federal Register
approved the incorporation by reference
of a certain publication listed in this AD
as of January 14, 2022.
ADDRESSES: For EASA material
incorporated by reference (IBR) in this
AD, contact EASA, Konrad-AdenauerUfer 3, 50668 Cologne, Germany;
telephone +49 221 8999 000; email
ADs@easa.europa.eu; internet
www.easa.europa.eu. You may find the
EASA 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–2021–0606.
SUMMARY:
Examining the AD Docket
You may examine the AD docket at
https://www.regulations.gov by
searching for and locating Docket No.
FAA–2021–0606; 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:
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Background
EASA, which is the Technical Agent
for the Member States of the European
Union, has issued EASA AD 2019–0182,
dated July 26, 2019 (EASA AD 2019–
0182), to correct an unsafe condition for
Leonardo S.p.A. Helicopters, formerly
Finmeccanica S.p.A. Helicopter
Division, AgustaWestland S.p.A.,
Agusta S.p.A., Model A109E, A109LUH,
A109S, and AW109SP helicopters, all
serial numbers. Model A109LUH
helicopters are not certificated by the
FAA and are not included on the U.S.
type certificate data sheet; this AD
therefore does not include those
helicopters in the applicability.
Although EASA AD 2019–0182 applies
to Model A109E, A109S and AW109SP
helicopters, all manufacturer serial
numbers, this AD applies to helicopters
with an affected assembly installed.
The FAA issued a notice of proposed
rulemaking (NPRM) to amend 14 CFR
part 39 by adding an AD that would
apply to Leonardo S.p.a. Model A109E,
A109S, and AW109SP helicopters,
certificated in any category, with an
affected assembly as identified in EASA
AD 2019–0182. The NPRM published in
the Federal Register on July 30, 2021
(86 FR 40964). The NPRM was
prompted by reports of MLG wheel
assembly failure on Model A109E
helicopters. Subsequent investigations
identified stress corrosion and hydrogen
embrittlement on the threaded end of
the MLG strut, where lack of cadmium
plating was observed, and determined
that a certain batch of ‘‘enhanced’’
MLGs may be affected. Due to design
similarity Model A109S and AW109SP
helicopters are also affected. The NPRM
proposed to require repetitive
inspections of each affected MLG strut
assembly and, depending on the
findings, replacement of an affected
MLG strut assembly with a serviceable
assembly, or application of corrosion
preventive compound, as specified in
EASA AD 2019–0182.
The FAA is issuing this AD to address
stress corrosion and hydrogen
embrittlement on the threaded end of
the MLG strut in the MLG wheel
assembly. This condition, if not
addressed, could lead to cracks on the
affected MLG assembly, resulting in
damage or failure of the MLG and
consequent damage to the helicopter
and injury to occupants. See EASA AD
2019–0182 for additional background
information.
E:\FR\FM\10DER1.SGM
10DER1
]]>Agencies
[Federal Register Volume 86, Number 235 (Friday, December 10, 2021)]
[Rules and Regulations]
[Pages 70361-70364]
From the Federal Register Online via the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]
[FR Doc No: 2021-26679]
-----------------------------------------------------------------------
DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION
Federal Aviation Administration
14 CFR Part 39
[Docket No. FAA-2021-0826; Project Identifier MCAI-2021-00300-R;
Amendment 39-21826; AD 2021-24-05]
RIN 2120-AA64
Airworthiness Directives; Airbus Helicopters Deutschland GmbH
Helicopters
AGENCY: Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), DOT.
ACTION: Final rule.
-----------------------------------------------------------------------
SUMMARY: The FAA is adopting a new airworthiness directive (AD) for
certain Airbus Helicopters Deutschland GmbH Model EC135P2+, EC135P3,
EC135T2+, and EC135T3 helicopters. This AD was prompted by reports that
certain aft and forward fitting assemblies, which are not approved for
installation on certain helicopters, were installed on those
helicopters as part of the outboard load system. Operators of those
helicopters might not be aware of the applicable overhaul or life
limits for those fitting assemblies. This AD requires inspecting the
aft and forward fitting assemblies of the outboard load system to
determine the part number, re-identifying the part if necessary,
inspecting each affected part for damage (which may be indicated by
signs of corrosion, mechanical damage, loose rivets, or cracks) and,
depending on the findings, corrective actions, as specified in a
European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) AD, which is incorporated
by reference. The FAA is issuing this AD to address the unsafe
condition on these products.
DATES: This AD is effective January 14, 2022.
The Director of the Federal Register approved the incorporation by
reference of a certain publication listed in this AD as of January 14,
2022.
ADDRESSES: For EASA material incorporated by reference (IBR) in this
AD, contact EASA, Konrad-Adenauer-Ufer 3, 50668 Cologne, Germany;
telephone +49 221 8999 000; email [email protected]; internet
www.easa.europa.eu. You may find this 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://
[[Page 70362]]
www.regulations.gov by searching for and locating Docket No. FAA-2021-
0826.
Examining the AD Docket
You may examine the AD docket at https://www.regulations.gov by
searching for and locating Docket No. FAA-2021-0826; 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 2021-0066, dated March 8, 2021 (EASA
AD 2021-0066), to correct an unsafe condition for Airbus Helicopters
Deutschland GmbH (formerly Eurocopter Deutschland GmbH and Eurocopter
Espa[ntilde]a S.A.) Model EC135 P2+, EC135 P3, EC135 T2+, EC135 T3,
EC635 P2+, EC635 P3, EC635 T1, EC635 T2+, and EC635 T3 helicopters,
serial numbers (S/Ns) 0866 to 1166 inclusive, except S/Ns 1007, 1102,
and 1145, and except helicopters on which Airbus Helicopters Service
Bulletin EC135-85-063 has been embodied in service. Model EC635 P2+,
EC635 P3, EC635 T1, EC635 T2+, and EC635 T3 helicopters are not
certificated by the FAA and are not included on the U.S. type
certificate data sheet, except where the U.S. type certificate data
sheet explains that the Model EC635T2+ helicopter having serial number
0858 was converted from Model EC635T2+ to Model EC135T2+. This AD,
therefore, does not include Model EC635 P2+, EC635 P3, EC635 T1, EC635
T2+, and EC635 T3 helicopters in the applicability.
The FAA issued a notice of proposed rulemaking (NPRM) to amend 14
CFR part 39 by adding an AD that would apply to certain Airbus
Helicopters Deutschland GmbH Model EC135P2+, EC135P3, EC135T2+, and
EC135T3 helicopters. The NPRM published in the Federal Register on
September 23, 2021 (86 FR 52851). The NPRM was prompted by reports that
aft and forward fitting assemblies, having part number L851M2810103,
were installed as part of the outboard load system on helicopters
having S/Ns 0886 and up. The affected fitting assemblies are not
approved for installation on helicopters having those serial numbers.
Operators of those helicopters might not be aware of the applicable
overhaul or life limits for those fitting assemblies. The NPRM proposed
to require inspecting the aft and forward fitting assemblies of the
outboard load system to determine the part number, re-identifying the
part if necessary, inspecting each affected part for damage (which may
be indicated by signs of corrosion, mechanical damage, loose rivets, or
cracks) and, depending on the findings, corrective actions, as
specified in EASA AD 2021-0066.
The FAA is issuing this AD to address failure of affected aft and
forward fitting assemblies and consequent loss of external cargo,
resulting in personal injury or injury to persons on the ground. See
EASA AD 2021-0066 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 2021-0066 requires a onetime inspection of each aft and
forward fitting assembly of the outboard load system to identify the
part number, re-identifying the part number if necessary, a one-time
inspection of an affected fitting assembly for damage, and corrective
action. The corrective action includes replacing any damaged fitting.
This material is reasonably available because the interested
parties have access to it through their normal course of business or by
the means identified in the ADDRESSES section.
Costs of Compliance
The FAA estimates that this AD affects 69 helicopters of U.S.
Registry. The FAA estimates the following costs to comply with this AD.
Estimated Costs
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Cost per Cost on U.S.
Action Labor cost Parts cost product operators
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Inspection to determine fitting 0.50 work-hour x $85 per $0 $42.50 $2,932.50
assembly part number. hour = $42.50.
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
The FAA estimates the following costs to do any necessary actions
that would be required based on the results of the inspection. The
agency has no way of determining the number of helicopters that might
need these actions:
On-Condition Costs
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Cost per
Action Labor cost Parts cost product
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Re-identification of affected fitting assembly 0.25 work-hour x $85 per hour = $0 $21.25
with part number. $21.25.
[[Page 70363]]
Detailed inspection of affected fitting 1.75 work-hours x $85 per hour = 0 148.75
assembly. $148.75.
Replacement of damaged affected fitting 1.50 work-hours x $85 per hour = 1,363 1,490.50
assembly. $127.50.
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Authority for This Rulemaking
Title 49 of the United States Code specifies the FAA's authority to
issue rules on aviation safety. Subtitle I, section 106, describes the
authority of the FAA Administrator. Subtitle VII: Aviation Programs,
describes in more detail the scope of the Agency's authority.
The FAA is issuing this rulemaking under the authority described in
Subtitle VII, Part A, Subpart III, Section 44701: General requirements.
Under that section, Congress charges the FAA with promoting safe flight
of civil aircraft in air commerce by prescribing regulations for
practices, methods, and procedures the Administrator finds necessary
for safety in air commerce. This regulation is within the scope of that
authority because it addresses an unsafe condition that is likely to
exist or develop on products identified in this rulemaking action.
Regulatory Findings
This AD will not have federalism implications under Executive Order
13132. This AD will not have a substantial direct effect on the States,
on the relationship between the national government and the States, or
on the distribution of power and responsibilities among the various
levels of government.
For the reasons discussed above, I certify that this AD:
(1) Is not a ``significant regulatory action'' under Executive
Order 12866,
(2) Will not affect intrastate aviation in Alaska, and
(3) Will not have a significant economic impact, positive or
negative, on a substantial number of small entities under the criteria
of the Regulatory Flexibility Act.
List of Subjects in 14 CFR Part 39
Air transportation, Aircraft, Aviation safety, Incorporation by
reference, Safety.
The Amendment
Accordingly, under the authority delegated to me by the
Administrator, the FAA amends 14 CFR part 39 as follows:
PART 39--AIRWORTHINESS DIRECTIVES
0
1. The authority citation for part 39 continues to read as follows:
Authority: 49 U.S.C. 106(g), 40113, 44701.
Sec. 39.13 [Amended]
0
2. The FAA amends Sec. 39.13 by adding the following new airworthiness
directive:
2021-24-05 Airbus Helicopters Deutschland GmbH: Amendment 39-21826;
Docket No. FAA-2021-0826; Project Identifier MCAI-2021-00300-R.
(a) Effective Date
This airworthiness directive (AD) is effective January 14, 2022.
(b) Affected ADs
None.
(c) Applicability
This AD applies to Airbus Helicopters Deutschland GmbH Model
EC135P2+, EC135P3, EC135T2+, and EC135T3 helicopters, certificated
in any category, as identified in European Union Aviation Safety
Agency (EASA) AD 2021-0066, dated March 8, 2021 (EASA AD 2021-0066).
(d) Subject
Joint Aircraft Service Component (JASC) Code: 2550, Cargo
Compartments.
(e) Unsafe Condition
This AD was prompted by reports that certain aft and forward
fitting assemblies, which are not approved for installation on
certain helicopters, were installed on those helicopters as part of
the outboard load system. Operators of those helicopters might not
be aware of the applicable overhaul or life limits for those fitting
assemblies. The FAA is issuing this AD to address failure of
affected aft and forward fitting assemblies and consequent loss of
external cargo, resulting in personal injury or injury to persons on
the ground.
(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 2021-0066.
(h) Exceptions to EASA AD 2021-0066
(1) Where EASA AD 2021-0066 requires compliance in terms of
flight hours, this AD requires using hours time-in-service.
(2) Where EASA AD 2021-0066 refers to its effective date, this
AD requires using the effective date of this AD.
(3) Where paragraph (4) of, and the service information
referenced in, EASA AD 2021-0066, specify contacting Airbus
Helicopters Deutschland GmbH for applicable instructions if any
damage (which may be indicated by signs of corrosion, mechanical
damage, loose rivets, or cracks) is found, the corrective action
must be accomplished using a method approved by the Manager, General
Aviation & Rotorcraft Section, International Validation Branch, FAA;
or EASA; or Airbus Helicopters Deutschland GmbH EASA Design
Organization Approval (DOA). If approved by the DOA, the approval
must include the DOA-authorized signature.
(4) Where the service information referenced in EASA AD 2021-
0066 specifies to discard certain parts, this AD requires removing
those parts from service.
(5) This AD does not mandate compliance with the ``Remarks''
section of EASA AD 2021-0066.
(i) No Reporting Requirement
Although the service information referenced in EASA AD 2021-0066
specifies to submit certain information to the manufacturer, this AD
does not include that requirement.
(j) Special Flight Permit
Special flight permits may be issued in accordance with 14 CFR
21.197 and 21.199 to operate the helicopter to a location where the
helicopter can be inspected (if the operator elects to do so),
provided the outboard load system is not used until the applicable
corrective actions required by paragraph (4) of EASA AD 2021-0066
are completed.
(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.
[[Page 70364]]
(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 2021-0066,
dated March 8, 2021.
(ii) [Reserved]
(3) For EASA AD 2021-0066, dated March 8, 2021, 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 the EASA 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-2021-0826.
(5) You may view this material that is incorporated by reference
at the National Archives and Records Administration (NARA). For
information on the availability of this material at NARA, email
[email protected], or go to: https://www.archives.gov/federal-register/cfr/ibr-locations.html.
Issued on November 10, 2021.
Lance T. Gant,
Director, Compliance & Airworthiness Division, Aircraft Certification
Service.
[FR Doc. 2021-26679 Filed 12-9-21; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE 4910-13-P
