Airworthiness Directives; Bell Textron Canada Limited Helicopters, 79794-79798 [2022-28315]
Download as PDF
<![CDATA[
79794
Federal Register / Vol. 87, No. 248 / Wednesday, December 28, 2022 / Rules and Regulations
TKELLEY on DSK125TN23PROD with RULES
the Security Bars rule as well as
complete a final rule following careful
consideration of comments received.
Further, even if the Departments had
not fulfilled the notice-and-comment
requirements of the APA, agencies are
not required to engage in prepromulgation notice and comment
under 5 U.S.C. 553(b) and (c) when an
agency ‘‘for good cause finds . . . that
notice and public procedure thereon are
impracticable, unnecessary, or contrary
to the public interest.’’ 5 U.S.C.
553(b)(B). Consistent with the March
2021 Delay IFR and the December 2021
Delay IFR, the Departments have
determined that the good cause
exception applies to this rule because
implementation of the Security Bars
rule has not been—and continues to not
be—feasible due to a preliminary
injunction against a related rule.
Furthermore, as discussed above, the
implementation of the Asylum
Processing IFR also impacts the
feasibility of the Security Bars rule. The
Security Bars rule’s reliance upon and
interplay with the Global Asylum final
rule, as explained above, mean that
implementation of the Security Bars
rule would risk violating the Pangea II
injunction. The preliminary injunction
remains in place. It is therefore
unnecessary for the Departments to
provide notice and an opportunity to
comment because any comments
received cannot and will not affect the
injunction underlying the need for
delay. See EME Homer City Generation,
L.P. v. E.P.A., 795 F.3d 118, 134–35
(D.C. Cir. 2015) (explaining that the
good cause exception applied because
‘‘commentators could not have said
anything during a notice and comment
period that would have changed’’ the
agency’s response to a judicial
decision).
B. Executive Order 12866 (Regulatory
Planning and Review) and Executive
Order 13563 (Improving Regulation and
Regulatory Review)
Executive Orders 12866 and 13563
direct agencies to assess the costs,
benefits, and transfers of available
alternatives, and, if regulation is
necessary, to select regulatory
approaches that maximize net benefits,
including potential economic,
environmental, public health and safety
effects, distributive impacts, and equity.
Executive Order 13563 emphasizes the
importance of quantifying both costs
and benefits, reducing costs,
harmonizing rules, and promoting
flexibility. Pursuant to Executive Order
12866, the Office of Information and
Regulatory Affairs of the Office of
Management and Budget determined
VerDate Sep<11>2014
17:08 Dec 27, 2022
Jkt 259001
that this rule is ‘‘significant’’ under
Executive Order 12866 and has
reviewed this regulation.
C. Regulatory Flexibility Act
The Departments have reviewed this
rule in accordance with the Regulatory
Flexibility Act, Public Law 96–354, 94
Stat. 1164 (1980), as amended (codified
at 5 U.S.C. 601 et seq.), and have
determined that this rule to further
delay the effective date of the Security
Bars rule (85 FR 84160) will not have a
significant economic impact on a
substantial number of small entities.
Neither the Security Bars rule, nor this
rule to delay its effective date, regulates
‘‘small entities’’ as that term is defined
in 5 U.S.C. 601(6). Only individuals,
rather than entities, are eligible to apply
for asylum and related forms of relief,
and only individuals are placed in
immigration proceedings.
D. Unfunded Mandates Reform Act of
1995
This rule will not result in the
expenditure by State, local, and Tribal
governments, in the aggregate, or by the
private sector, of $100 million or more
in any one year, and it will not
significantly or uniquely affect small
governments. Therefore, no actions are
deemed necessary under the provisions
of the Unfunded Mandates Reform Act
of 1995, Public Law 104–4, 109 Stat. 48;
see also 2 U.S.C. 1532(a).
E. Congressional Review Act
This rule is not a major rule as
defined by section 804 of the legislation
commonly known as the Congressional
Review Act, see Public Law 104–121,
sec. 251, 110 Stat. 847, 868 (1996)
(codified in relevant part at 5 U.S.C.
804) (‘‘CRA’’). This rule will not result
in an annual effect on the economy of
$100 million or more; a major increase
in costs or prices; or significant adverse
effects on competition, employment,
investment, productivity, innovation, or
on the ability of United States-based
enterprises to compete with foreignbased enterprises in domestic and
export markets. The Departments have
complied with the CRA’s reporting
requirements and have sent this rule to
Congress and to the Comptroller General
as required by 5 U.S.C. 801(a)(1).
F. Executive Order 13132 (Federalism)
This rule will not have substantial
direct effects 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. Therefore, in
accordance with section 6 of Executive
PO 00000
Frm 00006
Fmt 4700
Sfmt 4700
Order 13132, the Departments believe
that this rule will not have sufficient
federalism implications to warrant the
preparation of a federalism summary
impact statement.
G. Executive Order 12988 (Civil Justice
Reform)
This rule meets the applicable
standards set forth in section 3(a) and
3(b)(2) of Executive Order 12988.
H. Paperwork Reduction Act
This rule does not create new, or
revisions to existing, ‘‘collection[s] of
information’’ as that term is defined
under the Paperwork Reduction Act of
1995, Public Law 104–13, 109 Stat. 163,
44 U.S.C. chapter 35, and its
implementing regulations, 5 CFR part
1320.
I. Executive Order 13175 (Consultation
and Coordination With Indian Tribal
Governments)
This rule does not have ‘‘[T]ribal
implications’’ because it does not have
substantial direct effects on one or more
Indian Tribes, on the relationship
between the Federal Government and
Indian Tribes, or on the distribution of
power and responsibilities between the
Federal Government and Indian Tribes.
Accordingly, Executive Order 13175
(Consultation and Coordination with
Indian Tribal Governments) requires no
further agency action or analysis.
Alejandro N. Mayorkas,
Secretary, U.S. Department of Homeland
Security.
Merrick B. Garland,
Attorney General, U.S. Department of Justice.
[FR Doc. 2022–28121 Filed 12–27–22; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE 9111–97–P 4410–30–P
DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION
Federal Aviation Administration
14 CFR Part 39
[Docket No. FAA–2022–1658; Project
Identifier MCAI–2022–01597–R; Amendment
39–22293; AD 2022–27–08]
RIN 2120–AA64
Airworthiness Directives; Bell Textron
Canada Limited Helicopters
Federal Aviation
Administration (FAA), DOT.
ACTION: Final rule; request for
comments.
AGENCY:
The FAA is adopting a new
airworthiness directive (AD) for certain
Bell Textron Canada Limited Model 407
helicopters. This AD was prompted by
SUMMARY:
E:\FR\FM\28DER1.SGM
28DER1
TKELLEY on DSK125TN23PROD with RULES
Federal Register / Vol. 87, No. 248 / Wednesday, December 28, 2022 / Rules and Regulations
an accident. This AD requires
inspecting the tailboom attachment
structure, as specified in a Transport
Canada AD, which is incorporated by
reference. The FAA is issuing this AD
to address the unsafe condition on these
products.
DATES: This AD becomes effective
January 12, 2023.
The Director of the Federal Register
approved the incorporation by reference
of a certain publication listed in this AD
as of January 12, 2023.
The FAA must receive comments on
this AD by February 13, 2023.
ADDRESSES: You may send comments,
using the procedures found in 14 CFR
11.43 and 11.45, by any of the following
methods:
• Federal eRulemaking Portal: Go to
regulations.gov. Follow the instructions
for submitting comments.
• Fax: (202) 493–2251.
• Mail: U.S. Department of
Transportation, Docket Operations, M–
30, West Building Ground Floor, Room
W12–140, 1200 New Jersey Avenue SE,
Washington, DC 20590.
• Hand Delivery: Deliver to Mail
address above between 9 a.m. and 5
p.m., Monday through Friday, except
Federal holidays.
AD Docket: You may examine the AD
docket at regulations.gov under Docket
No. FAA–2022–1658; 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 listed
above.
Material Incorporated by Reference:
• For Transport Canada material that
is incorporated by reference in this final
rule, contact Transport Canada,
Transport Canada National Aircraft
Certification, 159 Cleopatra Drive,
Nepean, Ontario, K1A 0N5, CANADA;
telephone 888–663–3639; email
TC.AirworthinessDirectivesConsignesdenavigabilite.TC@tc.gc.ca;
internet tc.canada.ca/en/aviation. You
may find the Transport Canada material
on the Transport Canada website at
tc.canada.ca/en/aviation.
• 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
at regulations.gov under Docket No.
FAA–2022–1658.
Other Related Service Information:
For Bell service information identified
in this final rule, contact Bell Textron
VerDate Sep<11>2014
17:08 Dec 27, 2022
Jkt 259001
Canada Limited, 12,800 Rue de l’Avenir,
Mirabel, Quebec J7J 1R4, Canada;
telephone 1–450–437–2862 or 1–800–
363–8023; fax 1–450–433–0272; email
productsupport@bellflight.com; or at
bellflight.com/support/contact-support.
You may also view this service
information at the FAA contact
information under Material
Incorporated by Reference above.
FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT:
Kristi Bradley, Program Manager, COS
Program Management Section,
Operational Safety Branch, Compliance
& Airworthiness Division, FAA, 10101
Hillwood Pkwy., Fort Worth, TX 76177;
telephone (817) 222–5110; email
kristin.bradley@faa.gov.
SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION:
Background
Transport Canada, which is the
aviation authority for Canada, has
issued Transport Canada AD CF–2022–
68, dated December 15, 2022 (Transport
Canada AD CF–2022–68), following
issuance of National Transportation
Safety Board (NTSB) Aviation Accident
Preliminary Report Number
ANC22FA041, to correct an unsafe
condition for certain serial-numbered
Bell Textron Canada Limited Model 407
helicopters.
This AD was prompted by an
accident. The FAA is issuing this AD to
address failure of the tailboom
attachment hardware. See Transport
Canada AD CF–2022–68 for additional
background information.
Related Service Information Under 1
CFR Part 51
Transport Canada AD CF–2022–68
requires checking (inspecting) the
torque on the tailboom attachment nuts
and depending on the results, replacing
parts with new parts and stabilizing the
torque. Transport Canada AD CF–2022–
68 also requires a detailed visual
inspection of the existing sealant
application of the aft fuselage
attachment fittings and depending on
the results, removing the sealant,
accomplishing a detailed visual
inspection of the tailboom attachment
structure (fittings, aft frames, aft
fuselage bulkhead, aft section of the
canted web, tailboom canted bulkhead,
and upper and lower tailboom
longerons), repair, and reapplying
sealant. If the detailed visual inspection
of the tailboom attachment structure
was not required as a result of the
existing sealant application inspection,
Transport Canada AD CF–2022–68 also
requires accomplishing the detailed
visual inspection of the tailboom
attachment structure and depending on
PO 00000
Frm 00007
Fmt 4700
Sfmt 4700
79795
the results, repair. Transport Canada AD
CF–2022–68 prohibits installing a
tailboom until inspection of the security
of the shims on the forward face of the
tailboom bulkhead and elongation of the
four bolt holes in the tailboom and
fuselage fittings, and any repair, is
accomplished. Lastly, Transport Canada
AD CF–2022–68 requires reporting
information to Bell.
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.
Other Related Service Information
The FAA also reviewed Bell Alert
Service Bulletin 407–22–128, dated
December 8, 2022. This service
information specifies procedures for
checking (inspecting) the torque of the
aft fuselage attachment nuts and
depending on the results, replacing
parts with new parts, retaining the
removed parts for further investigation
by Bell, stabilizing the torque, applying
corrosion preventive compound, and
recording information. This service
information also specifies, using a
powerful light and mirror, inspecting
the existing sealant application of the aft
fuselage attachment fittings and
depending on the results, removing the
sealant, accomplishing a detailed visual
inspection of the tailboom attachment
structure (fittings, the aft frames, aft
fuselage bulkhead, aft section of the
canted web, the tailboom canted
bulkhead, and upper and lower
longerons), repair, reapplying sealant,
and recording information. For
tailbooms that are not installed on a
helicopter, this service information
specifies procedures for ensuring that
the four shims are securely bonded in
position on the forward face of the
tailboom bulkhead, examining the four
bolt holes in the tailboom and fuselage
fittings for elongation, discarding
certain removed parts, examining
certain other parts, replacing parts, and
recording information. Lastly, this
service information specifies procedures
for reporting the previously recorded
information to Bell.
FAA’s Determination
These helicopters have been approved
by the aviation authority of Canada and
are approved for operation in the United
States. Pursuant to the FAA’s bilateral
agreement with Canada, Transport
Canada, its technical representative, has
notified the FAA of the unsafe condition
described in its AD. The FAA is issuing
this AD after evaluating all pertinent
information and determining that the
unsafe condition exists and is likely to
E:\FR\FM\28DER1.SGM
28DER1
79796
Federal Register / Vol. 87, No. 248 / Wednesday, December 28, 2022 / Rules and Regulations
exist or develop on other helicopters of
the same type design.
Requirements of This AD
This AD requires accomplishing the
actions specified in Transport Canada
AD CF–2022–68, described previously,
as IBRed, except for any differences
identified as exceptions in the
regulatory text of this AD and except as
discussed under ‘‘Differences Between
this AD and the Transport Canada AD.’’
TKELLEY on DSK125TN23PROD with RULES
Explanation of Required Compliance
Information
In the FAA’s ongoing efforts to
improve the efficiency of the AD
process, the FAA developed a process to
use some civil aviation authority (CAA)
ADs as the primary source of
information for compliance with
requirements for corresponding FAA
ADs. The FAA has been coordinating
this process with manufacturers and
CAAs. As a result, Transport Canada AD
CF–2022–68 is IBRed in this FAA final
rule. This AD, therefore, requires
compliance with Transport Canada AD
CF–2022–68 in its entirety through that
incorporation, except for any differences
identified as exceptions in the
regulatory text of this AD. Using
common terms that are the same as the
heading of a particular section in
Transport Canada AD CF–2022–68 does
not mean that operators need comply
only with that section. For example,
where the AD requirement refers to ‘‘all
required actions and compliance times,’’
compliance with this AD requirement is
not limited to the section titled
‘‘Corrective Actions’’ in Transport
Canada AD CF–2022–68. Service
information referenced in Transport
Canada AD CF–2022–68 for compliance
will be available at regulations.gov
under Docket No. FAA–2022–1658 after
this final rule is published.
Differences Between This AD and the
Transport Canada AD
Transport Canada AD CF–2022–68
requires torque checks, whereas this AD
requires torque inspections because
those actions must be accomplished by
a mechanic that meets the requirements
of 14 CFR part 65 subpart D. Transport
Canada AD CF–2022–68 requires
retaining removed parts for further
investigation by Bell, whereas this AD
does not include that requirement.
However, operators may choose to
retain the parts for further investigation
by Bell as this AD does not prohibit an
operator from doing so. Transport
Canada AD CF–2022–68 does not
specify the compliance time to
accomplish the repetitive (stabilization)
torque checks (inspections) in its AD,
VerDate Sep<11>2014
17:08 Dec 27, 2022
Jkt 259001
whereas this AD does. Transport Canada
AD CF–2022–68 requires contacting Bell
Product Support Engineering for a
repair or instructions to rectify any
defect, whereas this AD requires a repair
done in accordance with a certain
approval. Lastly, Transport Canada AD
CF–2022–68 specifies to report
inspection results within 30 days,
whereas this AD requires reporting
inspection results within 10 days
instead.
Interim Action
The FAA considers this AD interim
action. If final action is later identified,
the FAA might consider further
rulemaking then.
Justification for Immediate Adoption
and Determination of the Effective Date
Section 553(b)(3)(B) of the
Administrative Procedure Act (APA) (5
U.S.C. 551 et seq.) authorizes agencies
to dispense with notice and comment
procedures for rules when the agency,
for ‘‘good cause,’’ finds that those
procedures are ‘‘impracticable,
unnecessary, or contrary to the public
interest.’’ Under this section, an agency,
upon finding good cause, may issue a
final rule without providing notice and
seeking comment prior to issuance.
Further, section 553(d) of the APA
authorizes agencies to make rules
effective in less than thirty days, upon
a finding of good cause.
An unsafe condition exists that
requires the immediate adoption of this
AD without providing an opportunity
for public comments prior to adoption.
The FAA has found that the risk to the
flying public justifies foregoing notice
and comment prior to adoption of this
rule because the tailboom attachment
hardware was involved in an accident
where the tailboom attachment
hardware failed during flight, resulting
in the tailboom separating from the
helicopter and loss of control of the
helicopter. Failure of the tailboom
attachment hardware could occur
during any phase of flight without any
previous indication. As the FAA has no
information pertaining to the extent of
this condition of the tailboom
attachment hardware that may currently
exist in helicopters or how quickly the
condition may propagate to failure, the
compliance time to complete the
required inspections is within 25 hours
time-in-service or 30 days, whichever
occurs first, which is shorter than the
time necessary for the public to
comment and for publication of the final
rule. Accordingly, notice and
opportunity for prior public comment
are impracticable and contrary to the
PO 00000
Frm 00008
Fmt 4700
Sfmt 4700
public interest pursuant to 5 U.S.C.
553(b)(3)(B).
In addition, the FAA finds that good
cause exists pursuant to 5 U.S.C. 553(d)
for making this amendment effective in
less than 30 days, for the same reasons
the FAA found good cause to forego
notice and comment.
Comments Invited
The FAA invites you to send any
written data, views, or arguments about
this final rule. Send your comments to
an address listed under ADDRESSES.
Include ‘‘Docket No. FAA–2022–1658;
Project Identifier MCAI–2022–01597–R’’
at the beginning of your comments. The
most helpful comments reference a
specific portion of the final rule, explain
the reason for any recommended
change, and include supporting data.
The FAA will consider all comments
received by the closing date and may
amend this final rule because of those
comments.
Except for Confidential Business
Information (CBI) as described in the
following paragraph, and other
information as described in 14 CFR
11.35, the FAA will post all comments
received, without change, to
regulations.gov, including any personal
information you provide. The agency
will also post a report summarizing each
substantive verbal contact received
about this final rule.
Confidential Business Information
CBI is commercial or financial
information that is both customarily and
actually treated as private by its owner.
Under the Freedom of Information Act
(FOIA) (5 U.S.C. 552), CBI is exempt
from public disclosure. If your
comments responsive to this AD contain
commercial or financial information
that is customarily treated as private,
that you actually treat as private, and
that is relevant or responsive to this AD,
it is important that you clearly designate
the submitted comments as CBI. Please
mark each page of your submission
containing CBI as ‘‘PROPIN.’’ The FAA
will treat such marked submissions as
confidential under the FOIA, and they
will not be placed in the public docket
of this AD. Submissions containing CBI
should be sent to Kristi Bradley,
Program Manager, COS Program
Management Section, Operational
Safety Branch, Compliance &
Airworthiness Division, FAA, 10101
Hillwood Pkwy., Fort Worth, TX 76177;
telephone (817) 222–5110; email
kristin.bradley@faa.gov. Any
commentary that the FAA receives that
is not specifically designated as CBI will
be placed in the public docket for this
rulemaking.
E:\FR\FM\28DER1.SGM
28DER1
Federal Register / Vol. 87, No. 248 / Wednesday, December 28, 2022 / Rules and Regulations
Regulatory Flexibility Act
The requirements of the Regulatory
Flexibility Act (RFA) do not apply when
an agency finds good cause pursuant to
5 U.S.C. 553 to adopt a rule without
prior notice and comment. Because the
FAA has determined that it has good
cause to adopt this rule without prior
notice and comment, RFA analysis is
not required.
Costs of Compliance
The FAA estimates that this AD
affects 839 helicopters of U.S. Registry.
Labor rates are estimated at $85 per
work-hour. Based on these numbers, the
FAA estimates the following costs to
comply with this AD.
Torque inspecting the tailboom
attachment hardware, and visually
inspecting the sealant and the tailboom
attachment structure takes about 2
work-hours for an estimated cost of
$170 per helicopter and $142,630 for the
U.S. fleet. If required, replacing a bolt
and nut set takes about 2 work-hours
and parts cost about $170 for an
estimated cost of $340 per replacement.
Stabilizing the torque takes about 1
work-hour for an estimated cost of $85
per instance. The FAA has no data to
determine the costs to accomplish
approved repairs. Reporting information
takes about 1 work-hour for an
estimated cost of $85 per helicopter and
$71,315 for the U.S. fleet.
TKELLEY on DSK125TN23PROD with RULES
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 currently valid
OMB Control Number. The OMB
Control Number for this information
collection is 2120–0056. Public
reporting for this collection of
information is estimated to be
approximately 1 hour per response,
including the time for reviewing
instructions, searching existing data
sources, gathering and maintaining the
data needed, and completing and
reviewing the collection of information.
All responses to this collection of
information are mandatory. Send
comments regarding this burden
estimate or any other aspect of this
collection of information, including
suggestions for reducing this burden, to:
Information Collection Clearance
Officer, Federal Aviation
Administration, 10101 Hillwood
Parkway, Fort Worth, TX 76177–1524.
VerDate Sep<11>2014
17:08 Dec 27, 2022
Jkt 259001
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, I certify
that this AD:
(1) Is not a ‘‘significant regulatory
action’’ under Executive Order 12866,
and
(2) Will not affect intrastate aviation
in Alaska.
List of Subjects in 14 CFR Part 39
Air transportation, Aircraft, Aviation
safety, Incorporation by reference,
Safety.
The Amendment
Accordingly, under the authority
delegated to me by the Administrator,
the FAA amends 14 CFR part 39 as
follows:
PART 39—AIRWORTHINESS
DIRECTIVES
1. The authority citation for part 39
continues to read as follows:
■
Authority: 49 U.S.C. 106(g), 40113, 44701.
§ 39.13
[Amended]
2. The FAA amends § 39.13 by adding
the following new airworthiness
directive:
■
2022–27–08 Bell Textron Canada Limited:
Amendment 39–22293; Docket No.
FAA–2022–1658; Project Identifier
MCAI–2022–01597–R.
PO 00000
Frm 00009
Fmt 4700
Sfmt 4700
79797
(a) Effective Date
This airworthiness directive (AD) is
effective January 12, 2023.
(b) Affected ADs
None.
(c) Applicability
This AD applies to Bell Textron Canada
Limited Model 407 helicopters serial
numbers 53000 through 53900 inclusive,
53911 through 53999 inclusive, 54000
through 54166 inclusive, 54300 through
54800 inclusive, 54805 through 54954
inclusive, 54956 through 54997 inclusive,
54999, and 56300 through 56304 inclusive,
certificated in any category.
(d) Subject
Joint Aircraft System Component (JASC)
Code: 5302, Rotorcraft Tail Boom.
(e) Unsafe Condition
This AD was prompted by an accident. The
FAA is issuing this AD to address failure of
the tailboom attachment hardware. The
unsafe condition, if not addressed, could
result in separation of the tailboom from the
helicopter and subsequent loss of control of
the helicopter.
(f) Compliance
Comply with this AD within the
compliance times specified, unless already
done.
(g) Requirements
Except as specified in paragraph (h) of this
AD: Comply with all required actions and
compliance times specified in, and in
accordance with, Transport Canada AD CF–
2022–68, dated December 15, 2022
(Transport Canada AD CF–2022–68).
(h) Exceptions to Transport Canada AD CF–
2022–68
(1) Where Transport Canada AD CF–2022–
68 requires compliance in terms of hours air
time, this AD requires using hours time-inservice (TIS).
(2) Where Transport Canada AD CF–2022–
68 refers to its effective date, this AD requires
using the effective date of this AD.
(3) Where paragraph A. of Transport
Canada AD CF–2022–68 refers to torque
checks, this AD requires torque inspections.
(4) Where the service information
referenced in paragraph A. of Transport
Canada AD CF–2022–68 specifies to retain
removed parts for further investigation, this
AD does not include that requirement.
(5) Where paragraph A. of Transport
Canada AD CF–2022–68 specifies to ‘‘carry
out the repetitive torque check of the
tailboom attachment nuts at all four locations
in accordance with the applicable ASB until
the torque has stabilized;’’ for this AD,
accomplish that torque inspection after
accumulating 1 hour TIS, but not to exceed
5 hours TIS, after replacing each affected bolt
and nut set. If the torque on a tailboom
attachment nut is not within its allowable
torque limit, before further flight, re-torque
the nut to its allowable torque limit.
Thereafter, repeat the torque inspection of
each tailboom attachment nut after
accumulating 1 hour TIS, but not to exceed
E:\FR\FM\28DER1.SGM
28DER1
79798
Federal Register / Vol. 87, No. 248 / Wednesday, December 28, 2022 / Rules and Regulations
5 hours TIS, until the torque for all four
tailboom attachment points has stabilized.
(6) Where paragraph C. of Transport
Canada AD CF–2022–68 refers to ‘‘defect,’’
this AD defines that as a crack, dent, loose
fastener, unsecure attachment, deformation,
or corrosion.
(7) Where paragraph C. of Transport
Canada AD CF–2022–68 specifies to contact
Bell Product Support Engineering for a repair
or instructions to rectify any defect, this AD
requires repair done in accordance with a
method approved by the Manager, General
Aviation & Rotorcraft Section, International
Validation Branch, FAA; or Transport
Canada; or Bell Textron Canada Ltd.’s
Transport Canada Design Approval
Organization (DAO). If approved by the DAO,
the approval must include the DAOauthorized signature.
(8) Where the service information
referenced in paragraph C. of Transport
Canada AD CF–2022–68 specifies to discard
parts, this AD requires removing those parts
from service.
(9) Where paragraph D. of Transport
Canada AD CF–2022–68 specifies to report
inspection results to Bell Product Support
Engineering within 30 days after
accomplishing the inspections required by
paragraphs A. or C., this AD requires
reporting inspection results at the applicable
time in paragraph (h)(9)(i) or (ii) of this AD.
(i) If the inspection was done on or after
the effective date of this AD: Submit the
report within 10 days after accomplishing the
actions required by paragraph A. or C. of
Transport Canada AD CF–2022–68.
(ii) If the inspection was done before the
effective date of this AD: Submit the report
within 10 days after the effective date of this
AD.
(i) Special Flight Permit
Special flight permits may be issued in
accordance with 14 CFR 21.197 and 21.199,
provided no passengers are onboard.
TKELLEY on DSK125TN23PROD with RULES
(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.
(k) Related Information
For more information about this AD,
contact Kristi Bradley, Program Manager,
COS Program Management Section,
Operational Safety Branch, Compliance &
Airworthiness Division, FAA, 10101
Hillwood Pkwy., Fort Worth, TX 76177;
VerDate Sep<11>2014
17:08 Dec 27, 2022
Jkt 259001
telephone (817) 222–5110; email
kristin.bradley@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) Transport Canada AD CF–2022–68,
dated December 15, 2022.
(ii) [Reserved]
(3) For Transport Canada AD CF–2022–68,
contact Transport Canada, Transport Canada
National Aircraft Certification, 159 Cleopatra
Drive, Nepean, Ontario, K1A 0N5, CANADA;
telephone 888–663–3639; email
TC.AirworthinessDirectivesConsignesdenavigabilite.TC@tc.gc.ca;
internet tc.canada.ca/en/aviation. You may
find the Transport Canada material on the
Transport Canada website at tc.canada.ca/
en/aviation.
(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.
(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:
www.archives.gov/federal-register/cfr/ibrlocations.html.
Issued on December 21, 2022.
Christina Underwood,
Acting Director, Compliance & Airworthiness
Division, Aircraft Certification Service.
[FR Doc. 2022–28315 Filed 12–23–22; 11:15 am]
BILLING CODE 4910–13–P
DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION
Federal Aviation Administration
14 CFR Part 39
[Docket No. FAA–2022–1649; Project
Identifier MCAI–2022–01206–E; Amendment
39–22284; AD 2022–26–05]
RIN 2120–AA64
Airworthiness Directives; Rolls-Royce
Deutschland Ltd & Co KG (Type
Certificate previously held by RollsRoyce plc) Turbofan Engines
Federal Aviation
Administration (FAA), DOT.
ACTION: Final rule; request for
comments.
AGENCY:
The FAA is adopting a new
airworthiness directive (AD) for all
Rolls-Royce Deutschland Ltd & Co KG
(RRD) TAY 620–15 and TAY 650–15
SUMMARY:
PO 00000
Frm 00010
Fmt 4700
Sfmt 4700
model turbofan engines. This AD was
prompted by reports of cracks on the
high-pressure turbine (HPT) stage 2
intermediate air seal attachment bolts
(attachment bolts). This AD requires
repetitive inspections of the HPT stage
2 intermediate air seal and attachment
bolts and, depending on the results of
the inspections, replacement of
attachment bolts and the HPT stage 1
and stage 2 rotor disks, 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 12,
2023.
The Director of the Federal Register
approved the incorporation by reference
of a certain publication listed in this AD
as of January 12, 2023.
The FAA must receive comments on
this AD by February 13, 2023.
ADDRESSES: You may send comments,
using the procedures found in 14 CFR
11.43 and 11.45, by any of the following
methods:
• Federal eRulemaking Portal: Go to
regulations.gov. Follow the instructions
for submitting comments.
• Fax: (202) 493–2251.
• Mail: U.S. Department of
Transportation, Docket Operations, M–
30, West Building Ground Floor, Room
W12–140, 1200 New Jersey Avenue SE,
Washington, DC 20590.
• Hand Delivery: Deliver to Mail
address above between 9 a.m. and 5
p.m., Monday through Friday, except
Federal holidays.
AD Docket: You may examine the AD
docket at regulations.gov under Docket
No. FAA–2022–1649; 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 mandatory
continuing airworthiness information
(MCAI), any comments received, and
other information. The street address for
Docket Operations is listed above.
Material Incorporated by Reference:
• For material incorporated by
reference in this final rule, contact
EASA, Konrad-Adenauer-Ufer 3, 50668
Cologne, Germany; phone: +49 221 8999
000; email: ADs@easa.europa.eu. You
may find this material on the EASA
website at ad.easa.europa.eu.
• You may view this service
information at the FAA, Airworthiness
Products Section, Operational Safety
Branch, 1200 District Avenue,
Burlington, MA 01803. For information
on the availability of this material at the
FAA, call (817) 222–5110.
FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT:
Sungmo Cho, Aviation Safety Engineer,
E:\FR\FM\28DER1.SGM
28DER1
]]>Agencies
[Federal Register Volume 87, Number 248 (Wednesday, December 28, 2022)]
[Rules and Regulations]
[Pages 79794-79798]
From the Federal Register Online via the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]
[FR Doc No: 2022-28315]
=======================================================================
-----------------------------------------------------------------------
DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION
Federal Aviation Administration
14 CFR Part 39
[Docket No. FAA-2022-1658; Project Identifier MCAI-2022-01597-R;
Amendment 39-22293; AD 2022-27-08]
RIN 2120-AA64
Airworthiness Directives; Bell Textron Canada Limited Helicopters
AGENCY: Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), DOT.
ACTION: Final rule; request for comments.
-----------------------------------------------------------------------
SUMMARY: The FAA is adopting a new airworthiness directive (AD) for
certain Bell Textron Canada Limited Model 407 helicopters. This AD was
prompted by
[[Page 79795]]
an accident. This AD requires inspecting the tailboom attachment
structure, as specified in a Transport Canada AD, which is incorporated
by reference. The FAA is issuing this AD to address the unsafe
condition on these products.
DATES: This AD becomes effective January 12, 2023.
The Director of the Federal Register approved the incorporation by
reference of a certain publication listed in this AD as of January 12,
2023.
The FAA must receive comments on this AD by February 13, 2023.
ADDRESSES: You may send comments, using the procedures found in 14 CFR
11.43 and 11.45, by any of the following methods:
Federal eRulemaking Portal: Go to regulations.gov. Follow
the instructions for submitting comments.
Fax: (202) 493-2251.
Mail: U.S. Department of Transportation, Docket
Operations, M-30, West Building Ground Floor, Room W12-140, 1200 New
Jersey Avenue SE, Washington, DC 20590.
Hand Delivery: Deliver to Mail address above between 9
a.m. and 5 p.m., Monday through Friday, except Federal holidays.
AD Docket: You may examine the AD docket at regulations.gov under
Docket No. FAA-2022-1658; 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 listed above.
Material Incorporated by Reference:
For Transport Canada material that is incorporated by
reference in this final rule, contact Transport Canada, Transport
Canada National Aircraft Certification, 159 Cleopatra Drive, Nepean,
Ontario, K1A 0N5, CANADA; telephone 888-663-3639; email
[email protected];
internet tc.canada.ca/en/aviation. You may find the Transport Canada
material on the Transport Canada website at tc.canada.ca/en/aviation.
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 at
regulations.gov under Docket No. FAA-2022-1658.
Other Related Service Information: For Bell service information
identified in this final rule, contact Bell Textron Canada Limited,
12,800 Rue de l'Avenir, Mirabel, Quebec J7J 1R4, Canada; telephone 1-
450-437-2862 or 1-800-363-8023; fax 1-450-433-0272; email
[email protected]; or at bellflight.com/support/contact-support. You may also view this service information at the FAA contact
information under Material Incorporated by Reference above.
FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Kristi Bradley, Program Manager, COS
Program Management Section, Operational Safety Branch, Compliance &
Airworthiness Division, FAA, 10101 Hillwood Pkwy., Fort Worth, TX
76177; telephone (817) 222-5110; email [email protected].
SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION:
Background
Transport Canada, which is the aviation authority for Canada, has
issued Transport Canada AD CF-2022-68, dated December 15, 2022
(Transport Canada AD CF-2022-68), following issuance of National
Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) Aviation Accident Preliminary Report
Number ANC22FA041, to correct an unsafe condition for certain serial-
numbered Bell Textron Canada Limited Model 407 helicopters.
This AD was prompted by an accident. The FAA is issuing this AD to
address failure of the tailboom attachment hardware. See Transport
Canada AD CF-2022-68 for additional background information.
Related Service Information Under 1 CFR Part 51
Transport Canada AD CF-2022-68 requires checking (inspecting) the
torque on the tailboom attachment nuts and depending on the results,
replacing parts with new parts and stabilizing the torque. Transport
Canada AD CF-2022-68 also requires a detailed visual inspection of the
existing sealant application of the aft fuselage attachment fittings
and depending on the results, removing the sealant, accomplishing a
detailed visual inspection of the tailboom attachment structure
(fittings, aft frames, aft fuselage bulkhead, aft section of the canted
web, tailboom canted bulkhead, and upper and lower tailboom longerons),
repair, and reapplying sealant. If the detailed visual inspection of
the tailboom attachment structure was not required as a result of the
existing sealant application inspection, Transport Canada AD CF-2022-68
also requires accomplishing the detailed visual inspection of the
tailboom attachment structure and depending on the results, repair.
Transport Canada AD CF-2022-68 prohibits installing a tailboom until
inspection of the security of the shims on the forward face of the
tailboom bulkhead and elongation of the four bolt holes in the tailboom
and fuselage fittings, and any repair, is accomplished. Lastly,
Transport Canada AD CF-2022-68 requires reporting information to Bell.
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.
Other Related Service Information
The FAA also reviewed Bell Alert Service Bulletin 407-22-128, dated
December 8, 2022. This service information specifies procedures for
checking (inspecting) the torque of the aft fuselage attachment nuts
and depending on the results, replacing parts with new parts, retaining
the removed parts for further investigation by Bell, stabilizing the
torque, applying corrosion preventive compound, and recording
information. This service information also specifies, using a powerful
light and mirror, inspecting the existing sealant application of the
aft fuselage attachment fittings and depending on the results, removing
the sealant, accomplishing a detailed visual inspection of the tailboom
attachment structure (fittings, the aft frames, aft fuselage bulkhead,
aft section of the canted web, the tailboom canted bulkhead, and upper
and lower longerons), repair, reapplying sealant, and recording
information. For tailbooms that are not installed on a helicopter, this
service information specifies procedures for ensuring that the four
shims are securely bonded in position on the forward face of the
tailboom bulkhead, examining the four bolt holes in the tailboom and
fuselage fittings for elongation, discarding certain removed parts,
examining certain other parts, replacing parts, and recording
information. Lastly, this service information specifies procedures for
reporting the previously recorded information to Bell.
FAA's Determination
These helicopters have been approved by the aviation authority of
Canada and are approved for operation in the United States. Pursuant to
the FAA's bilateral agreement with Canada, Transport Canada, its
technical representative, has notified the FAA of the unsafe condition
described in its AD. The FAA is issuing this AD after evaluating all
pertinent information and determining that the unsafe condition exists
and is likely to
[[Page 79796]]
exist or develop on other helicopters of the same type design.
Requirements of This AD
This AD requires accomplishing the actions specified in Transport
Canada AD CF-2022-68, described previously, as IBRed, except for any
differences identified as exceptions in the regulatory text of this AD
and except as discussed under ``Differences Between this AD and the
Transport Canada AD.''
Explanation of Required Compliance Information
In the FAA's ongoing efforts to improve the efficiency of the AD
process, the FAA developed a process to use some civil aviation
authority (CAA) ADs as the primary source of information for compliance
with requirements for corresponding FAA ADs. The FAA has been
coordinating this process with manufacturers and CAAs. As a result,
Transport Canada AD CF-2022-68 is IBRed in this FAA final rule. This
AD, therefore, requires compliance with Transport Canada AD CF-2022-68
in its entirety through that incorporation, except for any differences
identified as exceptions in the regulatory text of this AD. Using
common terms that are the same as the heading of a particular section
in Transport Canada AD CF-2022-68 does not mean that operators need
comply only with that section. For example, where the AD requirement
refers to ``all required actions and compliance times,'' compliance
with this AD requirement is not limited to the section titled
``Corrective Actions'' in Transport Canada AD CF-2022-68. Service
information referenced in Transport Canada AD CF-2022-68 for compliance
will be available at regulations.gov under Docket No. FAA-2022-1658
after this final rule is published.
Differences Between This AD and the Transport Canada AD
Transport Canada AD CF-2022-68 requires torque checks, whereas this
AD requires torque inspections because those actions must be
accomplished by a mechanic that meets the requirements of 14 CFR part
65 subpart D. Transport Canada AD CF-2022-68 requires retaining removed
parts for further investigation by Bell, whereas this AD does not
include that requirement. However, operators may choose to retain the
parts for further investigation by Bell as this AD does not prohibit an
operator from doing so. Transport Canada AD CF-2022-68 does not specify
the compliance time to accomplish the repetitive (stabilization) torque
checks (inspections) in its AD, whereas this AD does. Transport Canada
AD CF-2022-68 requires contacting Bell Product Support Engineering for
a repair or instructions to rectify any defect, whereas this AD
requires a repair done in accordance with a certain approval. Lastly,
Transport Canada AD CF-2022-68 specifies to report inspection results
within 30 days, whereas this AD requires reporting inspection results
within 10 days instead.
Interim Action
The FAA considers this AD interim action. If final action is later
identified, the FAA might consider further rulemaking then.
Justification for Immediate Adoption and Determination of the Effective
Date
Section 553(b)(3)(B) of the Administrative Procedure Act (APA) (5
U.S.C. 551 et seq.) authorizes agencies to dispense with notice and
comment procedures for rules when the agency, for ``good cause,'' finds
that those procedures are ``impracticable, unnecessary, or contrary to
the public interest.'' Under this section, an agency, upon finding good
cause, may issue a final rule without providing notice and seeking
comment prior to issuance. Further, section 553(d) of the APA
authorizes agencies to make rules effective in less than thirty days,
upon a finding of good cause.
An unsafe condition exists that requires the immediate adoption of
this AD without providing an opportunity for public comments prior to
adoption. The FAA has found that the risk to the flying public
justifies foregoing notice and comment prior to adoption of this rule
because the tailboom attachment hardware was involved in an accident
where the tailboom attachment hardware failed during flight, resulting
in the tailboom separating from the helicopter and loss of control of
the helicopter. Failure of the tailboom attachment hardware could occur
during any phase of flight without any previous indication. As the FAA
has no information pertaining to the extent of this condition of the
tailboom attachment hardware that may currently exist in helicopters or
how quickly the condition may propagate to failure, the compliance time
to complete the required inspections is within 25 hours time-in-service
or 30 days, whichever occurs first, which is shorter than the time
necessary for the public to comment and for publication of the final
rule. Accordingly, notice and opportunity for prior public comment are
impracticable and contrary to the public interest pursuant to 5 U.S.C.
553(b)(3)(B).
In addition, the FAA finds that good cause exists pursuant to 5
U.S.C. 553(d) for making this amendment effective in less than 30 days,
for the same reasons the FAA found good cause to forego notice and
comment.
Comments Invited
The FAA invites you to send any written data, views, or arguments
about this final rule. Send your comments to an address listed under
ADDRESSES. Include ``Docket No. FAA-2022-1658; Project Identifier MCAI-
2022-01597-R'' at the beginning of your comments. The most helpful
comments reference a specific portion of the final rule, explain the
reason for any recommended change, and include supporting data. The FAA
will consider all comments received by the closing date and may amend
this final rule because of those comments.
Except for Confidential Business Information (CBI) as described in
the following paragraph, and other information as described in 14 CFR
11.35, the FAA will post all comments received, without change, to
regulations.gov, including any personal information you provide. The
agency will also post a report summarizing each substantive verbal
contact received about this final rule.
Confidential Business Information
CBI is commercial or financial information that is both customarily
and actually treated as private by its owner. Under the Freedom of
Information Act (FOIA) (5 U.S.C. 552), CBI is exempt from public
disclosure. If your comments responsive to this AD contain commercial
or financial information that is customarily treated as private, that
you actually treat as private, and that is relevant or responsive to
this AD, it is important that you clearly designate the submitted
comments as CBI. Please mark each page of your submission containing
CBI as ``PROPIN.'' The FAA will treat such marked submissions as
confidential under the FOIA, and they will not be placed in the public
docket of this AD. Submissions containing CBI should be sent to Kristi
Bradley, Program Manager, COS Program Management Section, Operational
Safety Branch, Compliance & Airworthiness Division, FAA, 10101 Hillwood
Pkwy., Fort Worth, TX 76177; telephone (817) 222-5110; email
[email protected]. Any commentary that the FAA receives that is
not specifically designated as CBI will be placed in the public docket
for this rulemaking.
[[Page 79797]]
Regulatory Flexibility Act
The requirements of the Regulatory Flexibility Act (RFA) do not
apply when an agency finds good cause pursuant to 5 U.S.C. 553 to adopt
a rule without prior notice and comment. Because the FAA has determined
that it has good cause to adopt this rule without prior notice and
comment, RFA analysis is not required.
Costs of Compliance
The FAA estimates that this AD affects 839 helicopters of U.S.
Registry. Labor rates are estimated at $85 per work-hour. Based on
these numbers, the FAA estimates the following costs to comply with
this AD.
Torque inspecting the tailboom attachment hardware, and visually
inspecting the sealant and the tailboom attachment structure takes
about 2 work-hours for an estimated cost of $170 per helicopter and
$142,630 for the U.S. fleet. If required, replacing a bolt and nut set
takes about 2 work-hours and parts cost about $170 for an estimated
cost of $340 per replacement. Stabilizing the torque takes about 1
work-hour for an estimated cost of $85 per instance. The FAA has no
data to determine the costs to accomplish approved repairs. Reporting
information takes about 1 work-hour for an estimated cost of $85 per
helicopter and $71,315 for the U.S. fleet.
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 currently valid OMB Control Number. The OMB
Control Number for this information collection is 2120-0056. Public
reporting for this collection of information is estimated to be
approximately 1 hour per response, including the time for reviewing
instructions, searching existing data sources, gathering and
maintaining the data needed, and completing and reviewing the
collection of information. All responses to this collection of
information are mandatory. Send comments regarding this burden estimate
or any other aspect of this collection of information, including
suggestions for reducing this burden, to: Information Collection
Clearance Officer, Federal Aviation Administration, 10101 Hillwood
Parkway, 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, I certify that this AD:
(1) Is not a ``significant regulatory action'' under Executive
Order 12866, and
(2) Will not affect intrastate aviation in Alaska.
List of Subjects in 14 CFR Part 39
Air transportation, Aircraft, Aviation safety, Incorporation by
reference, Safety.
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:
2022-27-08 Bell Textron Canada Limited: Amendment 39-22293; Docket
No. FAA-2022-1658; Project Identifier MCAI-2022-01597-R.
(a) Effective Date
This airworthiness directive (AD) is effective January 12, 2023.
(b) Affected ADs
None.
(c) Applicability
This AD applies to Bell Textron Canada Limited Model 407
helicopters serial numbers 53000 through 53900 inclusive, 53911
through 53999 inclusive, 54000 through 54166 inclusive, 54300
through 54800 inclusive, 54805 through 54954 inclusive, 54956
through 54997 inclusive, 54999, and 56300 through 56304 inclusive,
certificated in any category.
(d) Subject
Joint Aircraft System Component (JASC) Code: 5302, Rotorcraft
Tail Boom.
(e) Unsafe Condition
This AD was prompted by an accident. The FAA is issuing this AD
to address failure of the tailboom attachment hardware. The unsafe
condition, if not addressed, could result in separation of the
tailboom from the helicopter and subsequent loss of control of the
helicopter.
(f) Compliance
Comply with this AD within the compliance times specified,
unless already done.
(g) Requirements
Except as specified in paragraph (h) of this AD: Comply with all
required actions and compliance times specified in, and in
accordance with, Transport Canada AD CF-2022-68, dated December 15,
2022 (Transport Canada AD CF-2022-68).
(h) Exceptions to Transport Canada AD CF-2022-68
(1) Where Transport Canada AD CF-2022-68 requires compliance in
terms of hours air time, this AD requires using hours time-in-
service (TIS).
(2) Where Transport Canada AD CF-2022-68 refers to its effective
date, this AD requires using the effective date of this AD.
(3) Where paragraph A. of Transport Canada AD CF-2022-68 refers
to torque checks, this AD requires torque inspections.
(4) Where the service information referenced in paragraph A. of
Transport Canada AD CF-2022-68 specifies to retain removed parts for
further investigation, this AD does not include that requirement.
(5) Where paragraph A. of Transport Canada AD CF-2022-68
specifies to ``carry out the repetitive torque check of the tailboom
attachment nuts at all four locations in accordance with the
applicable ASB until the torque has stabilized;'' for this AD,
accomplish that torque inspection after accumulating 1 hour TIS, but
not to exceed 5 hours TIS, after replacing each affected bolt and
nut set. If the torque on a tailboom attachment nut is not within
its allowable torque limit, before further flight, re-torque the nut
to its allowable torque limit. Thereafter, repeat the torque
inspection of each tailboom attachment nut after accumulating 1 hour
TIS, but not to exceed
[[Page 79798]]
5 hours TIS, until the torque for all four tailboom attachment
points has stabilized.
(6) Where paragraph C. of Transport Canada AD CF-2022-68 refers
to ``defect,'' this AD defines that as a crack, dent, loose
fastener, unsecure attachment, deformation, or corrosion.
(7) Where paragraph C. of Transport Canada AD CF-2022-68
specifies to contact Bell Product Support Engineering for a repair
or instructions to rectify any defect, this AD requires repair done
in accordance with a method approved by the Manager, General
Aviation & Rotorcraft Section, International Validation Branch, FAA;
or Transport Canada; or Bell Textron Canada Ltd.'s Transport Canada
Design Approval Organization (DAO). If approved by the DAO, the
approval must include the DAO-authorized signature.
(8) Where the service information referenced in paragraph C. of
Transport Canada AD CF-2022-68 specifies to discard parts, this AD
requires removing those parts from service.
(9) Where paragraph D. of Transport Canada AD CF-2022-68
specifies to report inspection results to Bell Product Support
Engineering within 30 days after accomplishing the inspections
required by paragraphs A. or C., this AD requires reporting
inspection results at the applicable time in paragraph (h)(9)(i) or
(ii) of this AD.
(i) If the inspection was done on or after the effective date of
this AD: Submit the report within 10 days after accomplishing the
actions required by paragraph A. or C. of Transport Canada AD CF-
2022-68.
(ii) If the inspection was done before the effective date of
this AD: Submit the report within 10 days after the effective date
of this AD.
(i) Special Flight Permit
Special flight permits may be issued in accordance with 14 CFR
21.197 and 21.199, provided no passengers are onboard.
(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 Kristi Bradley,
Program Manager, COS Program Management Section, Operational Safety
Branch, Compliance & Airworthiness Division, FAA, 10101 Hillwood
Pkwy., Fort Worth, TX 76177; telephone (817) 222-5110; email
[email protected].
(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) Transport Canada AD CF-2022-68, dated December 15, 2022.
(ii) [Reserved]
(3) For Transport Canada AD CF-2022-68, contact Transport
Canada, Transport Canada National Aircraft Certification, 159
Cleopatra Drive, Nepean, Ontario, K1A 0N5, CANADA; telephone 888-
663-3639; email [email protected]; internet tc.canada.ca/en/
aviation. You may find the Transport Canada material on the
Transport Canada website at tc.canada.ca/en/aviation.
(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.
(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: www.archives.gov/federal-register/cfr/ibr-locations.html.
Issued on December 21, 2022.
Christina Underwood,
Acting Director, Compliance & Airworthiness Division, Aircraft
Certification Service.
[FR Doc. 2022-28315 Filed 12-23-22; 11:15 am]
BILLING CODE 4910-13-P
