Airworthiness Directives; Airbus Helicopters, 70358-70361 [2021-26680]
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70358
Federal Register / Vol. 86, No. 235 / Friday, December 10, 2021 / Rules and Regulations
However, the scheduling of the first full
principal and interest payment must
commence not more than 3 years from
the date of the promissory note and be
paid at least annually thereafter.
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■ 20. Amend § 5001.408 by revising
paragraph (b) to read as follows:
§ 5001.408 Participation or assignment of
guaranteed loan.
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(b) Lender’s servicing fee to holder.
The assignment guarantee agreement
must clearly state the guarantee portion
of loan as a percentage and
corresponding dollar amount of the
guaranteed portion of the guaranteed
loan it represents and the lender’s
servicing fee. The lender cannot charge
the Agency a servicing fee and servicing
fees are not eligible expenses for loss
claim.
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■ 21. Amend § 5001.451 by revising
(b)(3) and (e) to read as follows:
§ 5001.451
Conditional commitment.
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(b) * * *
(3) Loan agreement requirements to
include:
(i) Repayment terms and amortization
provisions of the guaranteed loan;
(ii) Description of real property
collateral, list of other collateral and
identification of the lender’s lien
priority in the collateral;
(iii) A list of persons and entities
guaranteeing payment of the guaranteed
loan and their percentage of guarantee;
(iv) Requirement as to the type and
frequency of the financial statements to
be required for the duration of the
guaranteed loan (guarantor statements
must be updated at least annually);
(v) Prohibition against borrower
assuming liabilities or obligations of
others;
(vi) Limitations on borrower dividend
payments and compensation of officers,
owners and members of borrower;
(vii) Limitations on the purchase and
sale of equipment other fixed assets and
real estate;
(viii) Restrictions on mergers,
consolidations, or sales of the business,
project, or guarantee loan collateral
without the concurrence of the lender;
(ix) Limitations on significant
management changes without the
concurrence of the lender;
(x) Maximum debt-to-net worth ratio,
when required by the lender or by this
part;
(xi) Minimum debt service coverage
ratio, when required by the lender or by
this part;
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(xii) Requirements imposed by the
Agency in its conditional commitment;
(xiii) Agency environmental
requirements; and
(xiii) Requirement for the lender and
the Agency to have reasonable access to
the project and financial records
including access for periodic
inspections of the project and financial
records by a representative of the lender
or the Agency; and
(xiv) Requirement for the borrower to
provide the lender and the Agency
performance information during the
term of the guaranteed loan.
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(e) Modification, and expiration of
conditional commitment. The
conditional commitment issued by the
Agency will be effective for a period of
one year or sufficient time to complete
the guaranteed loan project prior to loan
closing. The lender must submit a
written request to the Agency to extend
the conditional commitment at least 30
days prior to its expiration date and
obtain Agency approval for the
extension. The Agency will consider
this request only if no material adverse
changes in the borrower or the
borrower’s financial condition have
occurred since issuance of the
conditional commitment. If a
conditional commitment expires, the
Agency will notify the lender in writing
and may de-obligate the funds. Any
additions or modifications to conditions
stated in the original conditional
commitment must be agreed upon
between the lender, the borrower, and
the Agency.
■ 22. Amend § 5001.452 by revising
paragraphs (b) introductory text and
(b)(8)(iii)(L)(2) and adding paragraph
(b)(8)(iii)(L)(3) to read as follows:
■
§ 5001.452 Loan closing and conditions
precedent to issuance of loan note
guarantee.
AGENCY:
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(b) Simultaneously with or
immediately after the guaranteed loan
closing, the lender must provide to the
Agency the guarantee fee, and the
following forms and documents:
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(8) * * *
(iii) * * *
(L) * * *
(2) A title opinion or title insurance
showing the borrower has good and
marketable title to the real property and
other collateral and fully addressing all
existing mortgages or other lien defects,
restrictions or encumbrances. In those
cases where there is adequate gap
coverage, a title commitment may be
acceptable.
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23. Amend § 5001.454 by revising
paragraph (c) to read as follows:
§ 5001.454
Guarantee fee.
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(c) Loan note guarantee prior to
completion. If the loan note guarantee is
issued prior to completion of the
project’s construction under
§ 5001.205(e)(2), an additional guarantee
fee of 0.50 percent will be added.
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Subpart F—Servicing Provisions
24. Amend § 5001.513 by revising
paragraph (e) to read as follows:
■
§ 5001.513
Interest rate changes.
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(e) Variable rate to fixed rate change.
Variable rates can be changed to a fixed
rate at the request of the borrower,
agreement of the holder, if any, and
Agency concurrence.
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Justin Maxson,
Deputy Under Secretary, Rural Development.
[FR Doc. 2021–26160 Filed 12–9–21; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE 3410–15–P
DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION
Federal Aviation Administration
14 CFR Part 39
[Docket No. FAA–2021–0829; Project
Identifier MCAI–2021–00189–R; Amendment
39–21829; AD 2021–24–08]
RIN 2120–AA64
Airworthiness Directives; Airbus
Helicopters
Federal Aviation
Administration (FAA), DOT.
ACTION: Final rule.
The FAA is superseding
Airworthiness Directive (AD) 2021–04–
21, which applies to certain Airbus
Helicopters Model EC120B helicopters.
AD 2021–04–21 required an inspection
of the attachment bolts of the main rotor
(MR) hub scissors assembly for
discrepancies and repair if necessary;
part marking of the attachment bolts of
the MR hub scissors assembly; and
repetitive inspections of the part
marking of the attachment bolts, and
repair if necessary. This AD continues
to require the actions in AD 2021–04–
21; and also requires part marking of the
washer, scissor branch, and mast ring of
the corresponding nut side, and
repetitive inspections of the additional
part markings and repair if necessary; as
SUMMARY:
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Federal Register / Vol. 86, No. 235 / Friday, December 10, 2021 / Rules and Regulations
Discussion of Final Airworthiness
Directive
Safety Branch, Compliance &
Airworthiness Division, FAA, 950
L’Enfant Plaza N SW, Washington, DC
20024; phone: (202) 267–9167; email:
hal.jensen@faa.gov.
SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION:
specified in a European Union Aviation
Safety Agency (EASA) AD, which is
incorporated by reference. This AD was
prompted by a report of broken and bent
attachment bolts of the MR hub scissors
assembly and a determination that
additional part markings of the washer,
scissor branch, and mast ring of the
corresponding nut side, and repetitive
inspections of those part markings, are
necessary to detect any rotation. 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 material incorporated
by reference (IBR) in this AD, 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
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 on the
internet at https://www.regulations.gov
by searching for and locating Docket No.
FAA–2021–0829.
Examining the AD Docket
You may examine the AD docket on
the internet at https://
www.regulations.gov by searching for
and locating Docket No. FAA–2021–
0829; 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
70359
Comments
Background
The EASA, which is the Technical
Agent for the Member States of the
European Union, has issued EASA AD
2021–0046, dated February 12, 2021
(EASA AD 2021–0046) (also referred to
as the Mandatory Continuing
Airworthiness Information, or the
MCAI), to correct an unsafe condition
for all Airbus Helicopters Model
EC120B helicopters. Although EASA
AD 2021–0046 applies to all Model
EC120B helicopters, this AD applies to
helicopters with an affected part
installed instead.
The FAA issued a notice of proposed
rulemaking (NPRM) to amend 14 CFR
part 39 to supersede AD 2021–04–21,
Amendment 39–21443 (86 FR 17278,
April 2, 2021) (AD 2021–04–21). AD
2021–04–21 applied to certain Airbus
Helicopters Model EC120B helicopters.
The NPRM published in the Federal
Register on September 23, 2021 (86 FR
52859). The NPRM was prompted by a
report of broken and bent attachment
bolts of the MR hub scissors assembly
and a determination that additional part
markings of the washer, scissor branch,
and mast ring of the corresponding nut
side, and repetitive inspections of those
part markings, are necessary to detect
any rotation. The NPRM proposed to
continue to require the actions in AD
2021–04–21, as specified in an EASA
AD. The NPRM also proposed to require
part marking of the washer, scissor
branch, and mast ring of the
corresponding nut side, and repetitive
inspections of the additional part
markings and repair if necessary, as
specified in an EASA AD.
The FAA is 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. See the MCAI for additional
background information.
The FAA gave the public the
opportunity to participate in developing
this final rule. The FAA received no
comments on the NPRM or on the
determination of the cost to the public.
Conclusion
The FAA reviewed the relevant data
and determined that air safety and the
public interest require adopting this
final rule as proposed, except for minor
editorial changes. The FAA has
determined that these minor changes:
• Are consistent with the intent that
was proposed in the NPRM for
addressing the unsafe condition; and
• Do not add any additional burden
upon the public than was already
proposed in the NPRM.
Related Service Information Under 1
CFR Part 51
EASA AD 2021–0046 specifies
procedures for an inspection of the
attachment bolts of the MR hub scissors
assembly for discrepancies
(discrepancies include corrosion,
fretting, wear, cracking, bolt play, and
bolt tightening torque) and repair if
necessary; part marking of the washer,
scissor branch, and mast ring of the
attachment bolts and corresponding nut
side of the MR hub scissors assembly;
and repetitive inspections, after part
marking, for discrepancies, and repair if
necessary. The inspections of the
attachment bolts of the MR hub
assembly include checking the play and
torque of the scissors attachment bolts
and making sure that there are no hard
spots in the scissors link hinge.
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 89 helicopters of U.S. registry.
The FAA estimates the following costs
to comply with this AD:
ESTIMATED COSTS FOR REQUIRED ACTIONS
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Action
Labor cost
Inspection for discrepancies (retained
actions from AD 2021–04–21).
Part Marking (retained actions from AD
2021–04–21).
Repetitive Inspection of Markings (retained actions from AD 2021–04–21).
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Parts cost
4 work-hours × $85 per
hour = $340.
1 work-hour × $85 per
hour = $85.
1 work-hour × $85 per
hour = $85 per inspection cycle.
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Cost per product
Cost on U.S. operators
$0
$340 ..................................
$30,260.
0
$85 ....................................
$7,565.
0
$85 per inspection cycle ..
$7,565 per inspection
cycle.
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70360
Federal Register / Vol. 86, No. 235 / Friday, December 10, 2021 / Rules and Regulations
ESTIMATED COSTS FOR REQUIRED ACTIONS—Continued
Action
Labor cost
Additional Part Marking (new action) .....
Repetitive Inspection (new action) .........
Parts cost
1 work-hour × $85 per
hour = $85.
1 work-hours × $85 per
hour = $85 per inspection cycle.
The FAA estimates that it would take
about 1 hour per product to comply
with the reporting requirement in this
AD. The average labor rate is $85 per
hour. Based on these figures, the FAA
Cost per product
Cost on U.S. operators
0
$85 ....................................
$7,565.
0
$85 per inspection cycle ..
$7,565 per inspection
cycle.
estimates the cost of reporting on U.S.
operators to be $7,565, or $85 per
product.
The FAA estimates the following
costs to do any necessary on-condition
actions that would be required based on
the results of any required actions. The
FAA has no way of determining the
number of helicopters that might need
these on-condition actions:
ON-CONDITION COSTS
Action
Labor cost
Repair of the attachment bolts .....................................
4 work-hours × $85 per hour = $340 ...........................
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Paperwork Reduction Act
A federal agency may not conduct or
sponsor, and a person is not required to
respond to, nor shall a person be subject
to penalty for failure to comply with a
collection of information subject to the
requirements of the Paperwork
Reduction Act unless that collection of
information displays a current valid
OMB control number. The control
number for the collection of information
required by this AD is 2120–0056. The
paperwork cost associated with this AD
has been detailed in the Costs of
Compliance section of this document
and includes time for reviewing
instructions, as well as completing and
reviewing the collection of information.
Therefore, all reporting associated with
this AD is mandatory. Comments
concerning the accuracy of this burden
and suggestions for reducing the burden
should be directed to Information
Collection Clearance Officer, Federal
Aviation Administration, 10101
Hillwood Pkwy., Fort Worth, TX 76177–
1524.
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
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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:
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Parts cost
Cost per
product
$40
$380
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
(AD) 2021–04–21, Amendment 39–
21443 (86 FR 17278, April 2, 2021); and
■ b. Adding the following new AD:
■
■
2021–24–08 Airbus Helicopters:
Amendment 39–21829; Docket No.
FAA–2021–0829; Project Identifier
MCAI–2021–00189–R.
(a) Effective Date
This airworthiness directive (AD) is
effective January 14, 2022.
(b) Affected ADs
This AD replaces AD 2021–04–21,
Amendment 39–21443 (86 FR 17278, April 2,
2021) (AD 2021–04–21).
(c) Applicability
This AD applies to Airbus Helicopters
Model EC120B helicopters, certificated in
any category, having an affected part as
defined in European Union Aviation Safety
Agency (EASA) AD 2021–0046, dated
February 12, 2021 (EASA AD 2021–0046).
(d) Subject
Joint Aircraft System Component (JASC)
Code 6200, Main Rotor System.
(e) Unsafe Condition
This AD was prompted by a report of
broken and bent attachment bolts of the main
rotor (MR) hub scissors assembly and a
determination that additional part markings
of the washer, scissor branch, and mast ring
of the corresponding nut side, and repetitive
inspections of those part markings, are
necessary to detect any rotation. The FAA is
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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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15:55 Dec 09, 2021
Jkt 256001
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]
BILLING CODE 4910–13–P
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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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]]>Agencies
[Federal Register Volume 86, Number 235 (Friday, December 10, 2021)]
[Rules and Regulations]
[Pages 70358-70361]
From the Federal Register Online via the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]
[FR Doc No: 2021-26680]
=======================================================================
-----------------------------------------------------------------------
DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION
Federal Aviation Administration
14 CFR Part 39
[Docket No. FAA-2021-0829; Project Identifier MCAI-2021-00189-R;
Amendment 39-21829; AD 2021-24-08]
RIN 2120-AA64
Airworthiness Directives; Airbus Helicopters
AGENCY: Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), DOT.
ACTION: Final rule.
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SUMMARY: The FAA is superseding Airworthiness Directive (AD) 2021-04-
21, which applies to certain Airbus Helicopters Model EC120B
helicopters. AD 2021-04-21 required an inspection of the attachment
bolts of the main rotor (MR) hub scissors assembly for discrepancies
and repair if necessary; part marking of the attachment bolts of the MR
hub scissors assembly; and repetitive inspections of the part marking
of the attachment bolts, and repair if necessary. This AD continues to
require the actions in AD 2021-04-21; and also requires part marking of
the washer, scissor branch, and mast ring of the corresponding nut
side, and repetitive inspections of the additional part markings and
repair if necessary; as
[[Page 70359]]
specified in a European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) AD, which
is incorporated by reference. This AD was prompted by a report of
broken and bent attachment bolts of the MR hub scissors assembly and a
determination that additional part markings of the washer, scissor
branch, and mast ring of the corresponding nut side, and repetitive
inspections of those part markings, are necessary to detect any
rotation. 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 material incorporated by reference (IBR) in this AD,
contact the EASA, Konrad-Adenauer-Ufer 3, 50668 Cologne, Germany;
phone: +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 on the internet at https://www.regulations.gov by
searching for and locating Docket No. FAA-2021-0829.
Examining the AD Docket
You may examine the AD docket on the internet at https://www.regulations.gov by searching for and locating Docket No. FAA-2021-
0829; 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:
Background
The EASA, which is the Technical Agent for the Member States of the
European Union, has issued EASA AD 2021-0046, dated February 12, 2021
(EASA AD 2021-0046) (also referred to as the Mandatory Continuing
Airworthiness Information, or the MCAI), to correct an unsafe condition
for all Airbus Helicopters Model EC120B helicopters. Although EASA AD
2021-0046 applies to all Model EC120B helicopters, this AD applies to
helicopters with an affected part installed instead.
The FAA issued a notice of proposed rulemaking (NPRM) to amend 14
CFR part 39 to supersede AD 2021-04-21, Amendment 39-21443 (86 FR
17278, April 2, 2021) (AD 2021-04-21). AD 2021-04-21 applied to certain
Airbus Helicopters Model EC120B helicopters. The NPRM published in the
Federal Register on September 23, 2021 (86 FR 52859). The NPRM was
prompted by a report of broken and bent attachment bolts of the MR hub
scissors assembly and a determination that additional part markings of
the washer, scissor branch, and mast ring of the corresponding nut
side, and repetitive inspections of those part markings, are necessary
to detect any rotation. The NPRM proposed to continue to require the
actions in AD 2021-04-21, as specified in an EASA AD. The NPRM also
proposed to require part marking of the washer, scissor branch, and
mast ring of the corresponding nut side, and repetitive inspections of
the additional part markings and repair if necessary, as specified in
an EASA AD.
The FAA is 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. See the MCAI for additional
background information.
Discussion of Final Airworthiness Directive
Comments
The FAA gave the public the opportunity to participate in
developing this final rule. The FAA received no comments on the NPRM or
on the determination of the cost to the public.
Conclusion
The FAA reviewed the relevant data and determined that air safety
and the public interest require adopting this final rule as proposed,
except for minor editorial changes. The FAA has determined that these
minor changes:
Are consistent with the intent that was proposed in the
NPRM for addressing the unsafe condition; and
Do not add any additional burden upon the public than was
already proposed in the NPRM.
Related Service Information Under 1 CFR Part 51
EASA AD 2021-0046 specifies procedures for an inspection of the
attachment bolts of the MR hub scissors assembly for discrepancies
(discrepancies include corrosion, fretting, wear, cracking, bolt play,
and bolt tightening torque) and repair if necessary; part marking of
the washer, scissor branch, and mast ring of the attachment bolts and
corresponding nut side of the MR hub scissors assembly; and repetitive
inspections, after part marking, for discrepancies, and repair if
necessary. The inspections of the attachment bolts of the MR hub
assembly include checking the play and torque of the scissors
attachment bolts and making sure that there are no hard spots in the
scissors link hinge.
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 89 helicopters of U.S.
registry. The FAA estimates the following costs to comply with this AD:
Estimated Costs for Required Actions
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Cost on U.S.
Action Labor cost Parts cost Cost per product operators
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Inspection for discrepancies 4 work-hours x $85 $0 $340............... $30,260.
(retained actions from AD 2021- per hour = $340.
04-21).
Part Marking (retained actions 1 work-hour x $85 0 $85................ $7,565.
from AD 2021-04-21). per hour = $85.
Repetitive Inspection of Markings 1 work-hour x $85 0 $85 per inspection $7,565 per
(retained actions from AD 2021- per hour = $85 per cycle. inspection cycle.
04-21). inspection cycle.
[[Page 70360]]
Additional Part Marking (new 1 work-hour x $85 0 $85................ $7,565.
action). per hour = $85.
Repetitive Inspection (new 1 work-hours x $85 0 $85 per inspection $7,565 per
action). per hour = $85 per cycle. inspection cycle.
inspection cycle.
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The FAA estimates that it would take about 1 hour per product to
comply with the reporting requirement in this AD. The average labor
rate is $85 per hour. Based on these figures, the FAA estimates the
cost of reporting on U.S. operators to be $7,565, or $85 per product.
The FAA estimates the following costs to do any necessary on-
condition actions that would be required based on the results of any
required actions. The FAA has no way of determining the number of
helicopters that might need these on-condition actions:
On-Condition Costs
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Cost per
Action Labor cost Parts cost product
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Repair of the attachment bolts............. 4 work-hours x $85 per hour = $340. $40 $380
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Paperwork Reduction Act
A federal agency may not conduct or sponsor, and a person is not
required to respond to, nor shall a person be subject to penalty for
failure to comply with a collection of information subject to the
requirements of the Paperwork Reduction Act unless that collection of
information displays a current valid OMB control number. The control
number for the collection of information required by this AD is 2120-
0056. The paperwork cost associated with this AD has been detailed in
the Costs of Compliance section of this document and includes time for
reviewing instructions, as well as completing and reviewing the
collection of information. Therefore, all reporting associated with
this AD is mandatory. Comments concerning the accuracy of this burden
and suggestions for reducing the burden should be directed to
Information Collection Clearance Officer, Federal Aviation
Administration, 10101 Hillwood Pkwy., Fort Worth, TX 76177-1524.
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:
0
a. Removing Airworthiness Directive (AD) 2021-04-21, Amendment 39-21443
(86 FR 17278, April 2, 2021); and
0
b. Adding the following new AD:
2021-24-08 Airbus Helicopters: Amendment 39-21829; Docket No. FAA-
2021-0829; Project Identifier MCAI-2021-00189-R.
(a) Effective Date
This airworthiness directive (AD) is effective January 14, 2022.
(b) Affected ADs
This AD replaces AD 2021-04-21, Amendment 39-21443 (86 FR 17278,
April 2, 2021) (AD 2021-04-21).
(c) Applicability
This AD applies to Airbus Helicopters Model EC120B helicopters,
certificated in any category, having an affected part as defined in
European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) AD 2021-0046, dated
February 12, 2021 (EASA AD 2021-0046).
(d) Subject
Joint Aircraft System Component (JASC) Code 6200, Main Rotor
System.
(e) Unsafe Condition
This AD was prompted by a report of broken and bent attachment
bolts of the main rotor (MR) hub scissors assembly and a
determination that additional part markings of the washer, scissor
branch, and mast ring of the corresponding nut side, and repetitive
inspections of those part markings, are necessary to detect any
rotation. The FAA is
[[Page 70361]]
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.
(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 DOA-authorized 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 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: [email protected].
(2) Before using any approved AMOC, notify your appropriate
principal inspector, or lacking a principal inspector, the manager
of the local flight standards district office/certificate holding
district office.
(k) Related Information
For more information about this AD, contact 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].
(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:
[email protected]; Internet: www.easa.europa.eu. You may find this
EASA AD on the EASA website at https://ad.easa.europa.eu.
(4) You may view this service information at the FAA, Office of
the Regional Counsel, Southwest Region, 10101 Hillwood Pkwy., Room
6N-321, Fort Worth, TX 76177. For information on the availability of
this material at the FAA, call 817-222-5110. This material may be
found in the AD docket 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
[email protected], or go to: https://www.archives.gov/federal-register/cfr/ibr-locations.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]
BILLING CODE 4910-13-P
