Airworthiness Directives; Stemme AG Gliders, 3926-3928 [2022-01479]
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3926
Federal Register / Vol. 87, No. 17 / Wednesday, January 26, 2022 / Rules and Regulations
Approval (DOA). If approved by the DOA,
the approval must include the DOAauthorized signature.’’
(2) Where EASA AD 2021–0289–E requires
compliance in terms of flight hours, this AD
requires using hours time-in-service.
(3) Where EASA AD 2021–0289–E refers to
its effective date, this AD requires using the
effective date of this AD.
(4) Where paragraph (1) of EASA AD 2021–
0289–E specifies to ‘‘inform all flight crews,
and, thereafter, operate the helicopter
accordingly,’’ this AD does not require those
actions.
(5) The action required by paragraphs (1)
and (2) of EASA AD 2021–0289–E may be
performed by the owner/operator (pilot)
holding at least a private pilot certificate and
must be entered into the aircraft records
showing compliance with this AD in
accordance with 14 CFR 43.9(a)(1) through
(4) and 14 CFR 91.417(a)(2)(v). The record
must be maintained as required by 14 CFR
91.417 or 135.439.
(6) This AD does not mandate compliance
with the ‘‘Remarks’’ section of EASA AD
2021–0289–E.
(i) Special Flight Permit
Special flight permits may be permitted
provided that there are no passengers on
board.
BILLING CODE 4910–13–P
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(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;
telephone (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 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) Emergency AD 2021–0289–E, dated
December 23, 2021.
(ii) [Reserved]
15:49 Jan 25, 2022
Jkt 256001
Issued on January 13, 2022.
Lance T. Gant,
Director, Compliance & Airworthiness
Division, Aircraft Certification Service.
[FR Doc. 2022–01540 Filed 1–24–22; 11:15 am]
(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: 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.
VerDate Sep<11>2014
(3) For EASA AD 2021–0289–E, contact
EASA, Konrad-Adenauer-Ufer 3, 50668
Cologne, Germany; telephone +49 221 8999
000; email ADs@easa.europa.eu; internet
www.easa.europa.eu. You may find 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–2022–0009.
(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.
DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION
Federal Aviation Administration
14 CFR Part 39
[Docket No. FAA–2021–1010; Project
Identifier MCAI–2020–00807–G; Amendment
39–21924; AD 2022–03–07]
RIN 2120–AA64
Airworthiness Directives; Stemme AG
Gliders
Federal Aviation
Administration (FAA), DOT.
ACTION: Final rule.
AGENCY:
The FAA is adopting a new
airworthiness directive (AD) for certain
Stemme AG TSA–M Model S6 and S6–
RT gliders. This AD was prompted by
mandatory continuing airworthiness
information (MCAI) issued by the
aviation authority of another country to
identify and correct an unsafe condition
on an aviation product. The MCAI
describes the unsafe condition as a new
version of the propeller gearbox tooth
belt with a reduced life limit. This AD
requires establishing a life limit of 5
years for certain propeller gearbox tooth
belts. The FAA is issuing this AD to
address the unsafe condition on these
products.
DATES: This AD is effective March 2,
2022.
ADDRESSES: For service information
identified in this final rule, contact
SUMMARY:
PO 00000
Frm 00006
Fmt 4700
Sfmt 4700
Stemme AG, Flugplatzstrasse F2, Nr.
6–7, D–15344 Strausberg, Germany;
phone: +49 (0) 3341 3612–0; fax: +49 (0)
3341 3612–30; email: airworthiness@
stemme.de; website: https://
www.stemme.com. You may view this
service information at the FAA,
Airworthiness Products Section,
Operational Safety Branch, 901 Locust,
Kansas City, MO 64106. For information
on the availability of this material at the
FAA, call (817) 222–5110. It is also
available at https://www.regulations.gov
by searching for and locating Docket No.
FAA–2021–1010.
Examining the AD Docket
You may examine the AD docket at
https://www.regulations.gov by
searching for and locating Docket No.
FAA–2021–1010; 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 MCAI, 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: Jim
Rutherford, Aviation Safety Engineer,
General Aviation & Rotorcraft Section,
International Validation Branch, FAA,
901 Locust, Room 301, Kansas City, MO
64106; phone: (816) 329–4165; email:
jim.rutherford@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 Stemme AG TSA–M
Model S6 and S6–RT gliders. The
NPRM published in the Federal
Register on November 22, 2021 (86 FR
66229). The NPRM was prompted by
MCAI originated by the European Union
Aviation Safety Agency (EASA), which
is the Technical Agent for the Member
States of the European Union. EASA
issued EASA AD 2020–0140, dated June
23, 2020 (referred to after this as ‘‘the
MCAI’’), to address an unsafe condition
on Stemme AG (Stemme) TSA–M Model
S6 and S6–RT powered sailplanes
(gliders) and ASP S15–1 airplanes. The
MCAI states:
The airworthiness limitations for Stemme
TSA–M powered sailplanes and Stemme ASP
aeroplanes, which are approved by EASA,
are currently defined and published in
Chapter 4 of the applicable AMM [aircraft
maintenance manual]. These instructions
have been identified as mandatory for
continued airworthiness.
E:\FR\FM\26JAR1.SGM
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Federal Register / Vol. 87, No. 17 / Wednesday, January 26, 2022 / Rules and Regulations
Failure to accomplish these instructions
could result in an unsafe condition.
During a regular incoming part inspection
at Stemme, the supplier delivered a new
version of the tooth belts used in the
propeller gearbox. The new part (with
marking ‘‘Carbon’’) deviates from the
previously used part (with marking
‘‘Extreme’’) by its layer build up. The new
tooth belt has been found airworthy,
although with a reduced life limit.
Before Stemme identified the issue, new
tooth belts were delivered, identified as Part
Number (P/N) 830.185, the same as the
previous part. These parts have to be
identified by inspection, changed to P/N
832.502, and the reduced life limit
implemented.
Consequently, Stemme issued the
applicable ALS [airworthiness limitations
section] introducing the new life limit for the
new part. Stemme also issued the SB [service
bulletin] providing additional instructions on
relevant inspections and corrective actions.
For the reasons described above, this
[EASA] AD requires a one-time inspection of
the propeller gearbox tooth belts, and,
depending on findings, re-identification. This
[EASA] AD also requires implementation of
the reduced life limit by accomplishment of
the actions specified in the applicable ALS.
After issuance of the MCAI, EASA
approved extending the life limit of the
new ‘‘Synchroforce Carbon’’ belt to 5
years, the same as the original
‘‘Extreme’’ belt, as documented by
Stemme in Revision 15 to the AMM
Chapter 04 ALS.
You may examine the MCAI in the
AD docket at https://
www.regulations.gov by searching for
and locating Docket No. FAA–2021–
1010.
Discussion of Final Airworthiness
Directive
Comments
The FAA received one comment from
an individual commenter. The
commenter supported the NPRM
without change.
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Conclusion
This product has been approved by
the aviation authority of another
country and is approved for operation in
the United States. Pursuant to the FAA’s
bilateral agreement with this State of
Design Authority, it has notified the
FAA of the unsafe condition described
in the MCAI and service information
referenced above. The FAA reviewed
the relevant data, considered the
comment received, and determined that
air safety requires adopting this AD as
proposed. Accordingly, the FAA is
issuing this AD to address the unsafe
condition on these products. This AD is
adopted as proposed in the NPRM.
VerDate Sep<11>2014
15:49 Jan 25, 2022
Jkt 256001
3927
Related Service Information
Authority for This Rulemaking
The FAA reviewed Stemme Service
Bulletin Doc. No. P062–980049,
Revision 00, dated May 27, 2020. This
service information specifies identifying
the front propeller gearbox tooth belt,
revising the AMM and illustrated parts
catalogue, and introducing a life limit
for the propeller gearbox tooth belt
marked ‘‘Synchroforce Carbon.’’
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.
Differences Between This AD and the
MCAI or Service Information
The MCAI applies to Stemme AG
Model ASP S15–1 airplanes, and this
AD does not because that model does
not have an FAA type certificate.
The MCAI requires an inspection to
determine whether the propeller
gearbox tooth belts are ‘‘Synchroforce
Carbon’’ or ‘‘Extreme.’’ This AD does
not require this inspection because
instead, it applies only to gliders with
a ‘‘Synchroforce Carbon’’ propeller
gearbox tooth belt installed.
The MCAI requires revising the
existing aircraft maintenance program
(AMP) to introduce the reduced life
limit for the affected propeller gearbox
tooth belt, as well as other life limits, as
specified in the Temporary Revision to
the aircraft maintenance manual
airworthiness limitations section (ALS).
After the AMP is revised, the MCAI
does not require recording AD
compliance on a continued basis each
time a task in the revised AMP is
performed. Because the AMP is not
required for U.S. operators and the ALS
specified in the MCAI includes
additional tasks that do not address the
unsafe condition, this AD establishes a
life limit for the affected propeller
gearbox tooth belt by requiring that it be
removed from service after 5 years.
Operators are required to record AD
compliance each time an affected
propeller gearbox tooth belt reaches its
life limit and is replaced.
Stemme Service Bulletin Doc. No.
P062–980049, Revision 00, dated May
27, 2020, requires reporting information
to Stemme AG, and this AD does not.
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.
For the reasons discussed above, I
certify 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.
Costs of Compliance
The Amendment
The FAA estimates that this AD
affects 3 gliders of U.S. registry. The
FAA estimates that it will take 4 work
hours to replace the propeller gearbox
tooth belt and require a part costing
$300. The average labor rate is $85 per
work hour. Based on these figures, the
FAA estimates the cost to replace the
propeller gearbox tooth belt on U.S.
operators to be $1,920 or $640 per
glider, every 5 years.
Accordingly, under the authority
delegated to me by the Administrator,
the FAA amends 14 CFR part 39 as
follows:
PO 00000
Frm 00007
Fmt 4700
Sfmt 4700
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.
E:\FR\FM\26JAR1.SGM
26JAR1
3928
§ 39.13
Federal Register / Vol. 87, No. 17 / Wednesday, January 26, 2022 / Rules and Regulations
[Amended]
2. The FAA amends § 39.13 by adding
the following new airworthiness
directive:
■
2022–03–07 Stemme AG: Amendment 39–
21924; Docket No. FAA–2021–1010;
Project Identifier MCAI–2020–00807–G.
(a) Effective Date
This airworthiness directive (AD) is
effective March 2, 2022.
(b) Affected ADs
None.
(c) Applicability
This AD applies to Stemme AG TSA–M
Model S6 and S6–RT gliders, all serial
numbers, certificated in any category, with a
propeller gearbox tooth belt marked
‘‘Synchroforce Carbon’’ installed.
(d) Subject
Joint Aircraft System Component (JASC)
Code 6100, Propeller System.
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(g) Required Actions
Before the propeller gearbox tooth belt
accumulates 5 years since installation on a
glider or within 30 days after the effective
date of this AD, whichever occurs later, and
thereafter at intervals not to exceed 5 years,
remove the propeller gearbox tooth belt from
service and install a propeller gearbox tooth
belt with zero hours time-in-service.
(h) 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 certification office,
send it to the attention of the person
identified in paragraph (i)(1) of this AD and
email to: 9-AVS-AIR-730-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.
Jkt 256001
Issued on January 20, 2022.
Lance T. Gant,
Director, Compliance & Airworthiness
Division, Aircraft Certification Service.
BILLING CODE 4910–13–P
(f) Compliance
Comply with this AD within the
compliance times specified, unless already
done.
15:49 Jan 25, 2022
(j) Material Incorporated by Reference
None.
[FR Doc. 2022–01479 Filed 1–25–22; 8:45 am]
(e) Unsafe Condition
This AD was prompted by mandatory
continuing airworthiness information (MCAI)
issued by the aviation authority of another
country to identify and correct an unsafe
condition on an aviation product. The MCAI
describes the unsafe condition as a new
version of the propeller gearbox tooth belt
with a reduced life limit. The FAA is issuing
this AD to prevent a propeller gearbox tooth
belt remaining in service beyond its fatigue
life. The unsafe condition, if not addressed,
could result in failure of the propeller
gearbox tooth belt and reduced control of the
glider.
VerDate Sep<11>2014
(i) Related Information
(1) For more information about this AD,
contact Jim Rutherford, Aviation Safety
Engineer, General Aviation & Rotorcraft
Section, International Validation Branch,
FAA, 901 Locust, Room 301, Kansas City,
MO 64106; phone: (816) 329–4165; email:
jim.rutherford@faa.gov.
(2) Refer to European Union Aviation
Safety Agency (EASA) AD 2020–0140, dated
June 23, 2020, for more information. You
may examine the EASA AD in the AD docket
at https://www.regulations.gov by searching
for and locating Docket No. FAA–2021–1010.
DEPARTMENT OF LABOR
Occupational Safety and Health
Administration
29 CFR Part 1910
[Docket No. OSHA–2020–0007]
RIN 1218–AD42
COVID–19 Vaccination and Testing;
Emergency Temporary Standard
Occupational Safety and Health
Administration (OSHA), Labor.
ACTION: Interim final rule; withdrawal.
AGENCY:
OSHA is withdrawing the
November 5, 2021, emergency
temporary standard (ETS) which was
issued to protect unvaccinated
employees of large employers (100 or
more employees) from the risk of
contracting COVID–19 by strongly
encouraging vaccination.
DATES: The withdrawal is effective
January 26, 2022.
ADDRESSES: In accordance with 28
U.S.C. 2112(a), the agency designates
Edmund C. Baird, Associate Solicitor of
Labor for Occupational Safety and
Health, Office of the Solicitor, U.S.
Department of Labor, to receive
petitions for review of this agency
action. Service can be accomplished by
email to zzSOL-Covid19-ETS@dol.gov.
FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT:
General information and press
inquiries: Contact Frank Meilinger,
Director, Office of Communications,
U.S. Department of Labor; telephone
(202) 693–1999; email
meilinger.francis2@dol.gov.
For technical inquiries: Contact
Andrew Levinson, Directorate of
SUMMARY:
PO 00000
Frm 00008
Fmt 4700
Sfmt 4700
Standards and Guidance, U.S.
Department of Labor; telephone (202)
693–1950.
SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION:
I. Background and Rationale for
Withdrawal
On November 5, 2021, OSHA adopted
an emergency temporary standard (the
Vaccination and Testing ETS), under
sections 4, 6(c), and 8 of the
Occupational Safety and Health Act of
1970 (29 U.S.C. 653, 655(c), 657), to
protect unvaccinated employees of large
employers (100 or more employees)
from the risk of contracting COVID–19
by strongly encouraging vaccination (86
FR 61402). The Vaccination and Testing
ETS required covered employers to
develop, implement, and enforce a
mandatory COVID–19 vaccination
policy, with an exception for employers
that instead adopted a policy requiring
employees to either get vaccinated or
elect to undergo regular COVID–19
testing and wear a face covering at work
in lieu of vaccination. That ETS also
serves as a ‘‘proposed rule’’ for a
‘‘proceeding’’ to promulgate an
occupational safety or health standard.
29 U.S.C. 655(c)(3); see 29 U.S.C. 655(b).
On January 13, 2022, the U.S.
Supreme Court stayed the Vaccination
and Testing ETS, finding that
challengers were likely to prevail on
their claims. Nat’l Fed’n of Indep. Bus.
v. Dep’t of Labor, 595 U.S. __, __(2022)
(per curium) (slip op. at 5, 9). After
evaluating the Court’s decision, OSHA
is withdrawing the Vaccination and
Testing ETS as an enforceable
emergency temporary standard. To the
extent that this withdrawal is not
already generally exempt from the
notice and comment requirements of the
Administrative Procedure Act and the
OSH Act, OSHA finds good cause that
the opportunity for public comment on
this withdrawal is impracticable,
unnecessary, and contrary to the public
interest within the meaning of 5 U.S.C.
553(b)(B), and 29 U.S.C. 655(b) because
it would unnecessarily delay the
resolution of ambiguity for employers
and workers alike. This agency action
becomes effective immediately both
because there is good cause and because
the action removes a requirement on the
regulated community. 5 U.S.C.
553(d)(1), (3).
Although OSHA is withdrawing the
Vaccination and Testing ETS as an
enforceable emergency temporary
standard, OSHA is not withdrawing the
ETS to the extent that it serves as a
proposed rule under section 6(c)(3) of
the Act, and this action does not affect
the ETS’s status as a proposal under
section 6(b) of the Act or otherwise
E:\FR\FM\26JAR1.SGM
26JAR1
]]>Agencies
[Federal Register Volume 87, Number 17 (Wednesday, January 26, 2022)]
[Rules and Regulations]
[Pages 3926-3928]
From the Federal Register Online via the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]
[FR Doc No: 2022-01479]
-----------------------------------------------------------------------
DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION
Federal Aviation Administration
14 CFR Part 39
[Docket No. FAA-2021-1010; Project Identifier MCAI-2020-00807-G;
Amendment 39-21924; AD 2022-03-07]
RIN 2120-AA64
Airworthiness Directives; Stemme AG Gliders
AGENCY: Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), DOT.
ACTION: Final rule.
-----------------------------------------------------------------------
SUMMARY: The FAA is adopting a new airworthiness directive (AD) for
certain Stemme AG TSA-M Model S6 and S6-RT gliders. This AD was
prompted by mandatory continuing airworthiness information (MCAI)
issued by the aviation authority of another country to identify and
correct an unsafe condition on an aviation product. The MCAI describes
the unsafe condition as a new version of the propeller gearbox tooth
belt with a reduced life limit. This AD requires establishing a life
limit of 5 years for certain propeller gearbox tooth belts. The FAA is
issuing this AD to address the unsafe condition on these products.
DATES: This AD is effective March 2, 2022.
ADDRESSES: For service information identified in this final rule,
contact Stemme AG, Flugplatzstrasse F2, Nr. 6-7, D-15344 Strausberg,
Germany; phone: +49 (0) 3341 3612-0; fax: +49 (0) 3341 3612-30; email:
[email protected]; website: https://www.stemme.com. You may view
this service information at the FAA, Airworthiness Products Section,
Operational Safety Branch, 901 Locust, Kansas City, MO 64106. For
information on the availability of this material at the FAA, call (817)
222-5110. It is also available at https://www.regulations.gov by
searching for and locating Docket No. FAA-2021-1010.
Examining the AD Docket
You may examine the AD docket at https://www.regulations.gov by
searching for and locating Docket No. FAA-2021-1010; 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
MCAI, 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: Jim Rutherford, Aviation Safety
Engineer, General Aviation & Rotorcraft Section, International
Validation Branch, FAA, 901 Locust, Room 301, Kansas City, MO 64106;
phone: (816) 329-4165; email: [email protected].
SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION:
Background
The FAA issued a notice of proposed rulemaking (NPRM) to amend 14
CFR part 39 by adding an AD that would apply to certain Stemme AG TSA-M
Model S6 and S6-RT gliders. The NPRM published in the Federal Register
on November 22, 2021 (86 FR 66229). The NPRM was prompted by MCAI
originated by the European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA), which
is the Technical Agent for the Member States of the European Union.
EASA issued EASA AD 2020-0140, dated June 23, 2020 (referred to after
this as ``the MCAI''), to address an unsafe condition on Stemme AG
(Stemme) TSA-M Model S6 and S6-RT powered sailplanes (gliders) and ASP
S15-1 airplanes. The MCAI states:
The airworthiness limitations for Stemme TSA-M powered
sailplanes and Stemme ASP aeroplanes, which are approved by EASA,
are currently defined and published in Chapter 4 of the applicable
AMM [aircraft maintenance manual]. These instructions have been
identified as mandatory for continued airworthiness.
[[Page 3927]]
Failure to accomplish these instructions could result in an
unsafe condition.
During a regular incoming part inspection at Stemme, the
supplier delivered a new version of the tooth belts used in the
propeller gearbox. The new part (with marking ``Carbon'') deviates
from the previously used part (with marking ``Extreme'') by its
layer build up. The new tooth belt has been found airworthy,
although with a reduced life limit.
Before Stemme identified the issue, new tooth belts were
delivered, identified as Part Number (P/N) 830.185, the same as the
previous part. These parts have to be identified by inspection,
changed to P/N 832.502, and the reduced life limit implemented.
Consequently, Stemme issued the applicable ALS [airworthiness
limitations section] introducing the new life limit for the new
part. Stemme also issued the SB [service bulletin] providing
additional instructions on relevant inspections and corrective
actions.
For the reasons described above, this [EASA] AD requires a one-
time inspection of the propeller gearbox tooth belts, and, depending
on findings, re-identification. This [EASA] AD also requires
implementation of the reduced life limit by accomplishment of the
actions specified in the applicable ALS.
After issuance of the MCAI, EASA approved extending the life limit
of the new ``Synchroforce Carbon'' belt to 5 years, the same as the
original ``Extreme'' belt, as documented by Stemme in Revision 15 to
the AMM Chapter 04 ALS.
You may examine the MCAI in the AD docket at https://www.regulations.gov by searching for and locating Docket No. FAA-2021-
1010.
Discussion of Final Airworthiness Directive
Comments
The FAA received one comment from an individual commenter. The
commenter supported the NPRM without change.
Conclusion
This product has been approved by the aviation authority of another
country and is approved for operation in the United States. Pursuant to
the FAA's bilateral agreement with this State of Design Authority, it
has notified the FAA of the unsafe condition described in the MCAI and
service information referenced above. The FAA reviewed the relevant
data, considered the comment received, and determined that air safety
requires adopting this AD as proposed. Accordingly, the FAA is issuing
this AD to address the unsafe condition on these products. This AD is
adopted as proposed in the NPRM.
Related Service Information
The FAA reviewed Stemme Service Bulletin Doc. No. P062-980049,
Revision 00, dated May 27, 2020. This service information specifies
identifying the front propeller gearbox tooth belt, revising the AMM
and illustrated parts catalogue, and introducing a life limit for the
propeller gearbox tooth belt marked ``Synchroforce Carbon.''
Differences Between This AD and the MCAI or Service Information
The MCAI applies to Stemme AG Model ASP S15-1 airplanes, and this
AD does not because that model does not have an FAA type certificate.
The MCAI requires an inspection to determine whether the propeller
gearbox tooth belts are ``Synchroforce Carbon'' or ``Extreme.'' This AD
does not require this inspection because instead, it applies only to
gliders with a ``Synchroforce Carbon'' propeller gearbox tooth belt
installed.
The MCAI requires revising the existing aircraft maintenance
program (AMP) to introduce the reduced life limit for the affected
propeller gearbox tooth belt, as well as other life limits, as
specified in the Temporary Revision to the aircraft maintenance manual
airworthiness limitations section (ALS). After the AMP is revised, the
MCAI does not require recording AD compliance on a continued basis each
time a task in the revised AMP is performed. Because the AMP is not
required for U.S. operators and the ALS specified in the MCAI includes
additional tasks that do not address the unsafe condition, this AD
establishes a life limit for the affected propeller gearbox tooth belt
by requiring that it be removed from service after 5 years. Operators
are required to record AD compliance each time an affected propeller
gearbox tooth belt reaches its life limit and is replaced.
Stemme Service Bulletin Doc. No. P062-980049, Revision 00, dated
May 27, 2020, requires reporting information to Stemme AG, and this AD
does not.
Costs of Compliance
The FAA estimates that this AD affects 3 gliders of U.S. registry.
The FAA estimates that it will take 4 work hours to replace the
propeller gearbox tooth belt and require a part costing $300. The
average labor rate is $85 per work hour. Based on these figures, the
FAA estimates the cost to replace the propeller gearbox tooth belt on
U.S. operators to be $1,920 or $640 per glider, every 5 years.
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. For the reasons discussed above, I certify 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.
[[Page 3928]]
Sec. 39.13 [Amended]
0
2. The FAA amends Sec. 39.13 by adding the following new airworthiness
directive:
2022-03-07 Stemme AG: Amendment 39-21924; Docket No. FAA-2021-1010;
Project Identifier MCAI-2020-00807-G.
(a) Effective Date
This airworthiness directive (AD) is effective March 2, 2022.
(b) Affected ADs
None.
(c) Applicability
This AD applies to Stemme AG TSA-M Model S6 and S6-RT gliders,
all serial numbers, certificated in any category, with a propeller
gearbox tooth belt marked ``Synchroforce Carbon'' installed.
(d) Subject
Joint Aircraft System Component (JASC) Code 6100, Propeller
System.
(e) Unsafe Condition
This AD was prompted by mandatory continuing airworthiness
information (MCAI) issued by the aviation authority of another
country to identify and correct an unsafe condition on an aviation
product. The MCAI describes the unsafe condition as a new version of
the propeller gearbox tooth belt with a reduced life limit. The FAA
is issuing this AD to prevent a propeller gearbox tooth belt
remaining in service beyond its fatigue life. The unsafe condition,
if not addressed, could result in failure of the propeller gearbox
tooth belt and reduced control of the glider.
(f) Compliance
Comply with this AD within the compliance times specified,
unless already done.
(g) Required Actions
Before the propeller gearbox tooth belt accumulates 5 years
since installation on a glider or within 30 days after the effective
date of this AD, whichever occurs later, and thereafter at intervals
not to exceed 5 years, remove the propeller gearbox tooth belt from
service and install a propeller gearbox tooth belt with zero hours
time-in-service.
(h) 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 certification office, send it to the
attention of the person identified in paragraph (i)(1) of this AD
and email 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.
(i) Related Information
(1) For more information about this AD, contact Jim Rutherford,
Aviation Safety Engineer, General Aviation & Rotorcraft Section,
International Validation Branch, FAA, 901 Locust, Room 301, Kansas
City, MO 64106; phone: (816) 329-4165; email:
[email protected].
(2) Refer to European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) AD
2020-0140, dated June 23, 2020, for more information. You may
examine the EASA AD in the AD docket at https://www.regulations.gov
by searching for and locating Docket No. FAA-2021-1010.
(j) Material Incorporated by Reference
None.
Issued on January 20, 2022.
Lance T. Gant,
Director, Compliance & Airworthiness Division, Aircraft Certification
Service.
[FR Doc. 2022-01479 Filed 1-25-22; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE 4910-13-P
