Airworthiness Directives; Sikorsky Aircraft Corporation Helicopters, 2558-2561 [2023-00698]

Download as PDF 2558 Proposed Rules Federal Register Vol. 88, No. 10 Tuesday, January 17, 2023 This section of the FEDERAL REGISTER contains notices to the public of the proposed issuance of rules and regulations. The purpose of these notices is to give interested persons an opportunity to participate in the rule making prior to the adoption of the final rules. DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION Federal Aviation Administration 14 CFR Part 39 [Docket No. FAA–2023–0018; Project Identifier AD–2022–00883–R] RIN 2120–AA64 Airworthiness Directives; Sikorsky Aircraft Corporation Helicopters Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), DOT. ACTION: Notice of proposed rulemaking (NPRM). AGENCY: The FAA proposes to supersede Airworthiness Directive (AD) 2022–02–01, which applies to Sikorsky Aircraft Corporation Model S–92A helicopters with certain part-numbered main rotor stationary swashplate assemblies (swashplate assemblies) that have accumulated 1,600 or more total hours time-in-service (TIS) installed. AD 2022–02–01 requires visually inspecting the swashplate assembly at specified intervals and depending on the results, removing the swashplate assembly from service. Since the FAA issued AD 2022– 02–01, the FAA determined it was necessary to expand the applicability and require more detailed inspections to address the unsafe condition. This proposed AD would retain the actions of AD 2022–02–01, expand the applicability, add a detailed recurring visual inspection, and require either eddy current inspections (ECI) or fluorescent penetrant inspections (FPI). The FAA is proposing this AD to address the unsafe condition on these products. khammond on DSKJM1Z7X2PROD with PROPOSALS SUMMARY: The FAA must receive comments on this proposed AD by March 3, 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. DATES: VerDate Sep<11>2014 16:09 Jan 13, 2023 Jkt 259001 • 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 by searching for and locating Docket No. FAA–2023– 0018; 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 NPRM, any comments received, and other information. The street address for Docket Operations is listed above. Material Incorporated by Reference: • For Sikorsky service information identified in this NPRM, contact your local Sikorsky Field Representative or Sikorsky’s Service Engineering Group at Sikorsky Aircraft Corporation, Mailstop K100, 124 Quarry Road, Trumbull, CT 06611; telephone 1–800–946–4337 (1– 800–Winged–S); email wcs_cust_ service_eng.gr-sik@lmco.com. Operators may also log on to the Sikorsky 360 website at sikorsky360.com. • 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. FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Jared Hyman, Aerospace Engineer, Boston ACO Branch, Compliance & Airworthiness Division, FAA, 1200 District Avenue, Burlington, Massachusetts 01803; telephone (781) 238–7799; email: 9-AVS-AIR-BACOCOS@faa.gov. SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: Comments Invited The FAA invites you to send any written relevant data, views, or arguments about this proposal. Send your comments to an address listed under ADDRESSES. Include ‘‘Docket No. FAA–2023–0018; Project Identifier AD– 2022–00883–R’’ at the beginning of your comments. The most helpful comments reference a specific portion of the proposal, explain the reason for any recommended change, and include supporting data. The FAA will consider PO 00000 Frm 00001 Fmt 4702 Sfmt 4702 all comments received by the closing date and may amend the proposal 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 NPRM. 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 NPRM 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 NPRM, 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 NPRM. Submissions containing CBI should be sent to Jared Hyman, Aerospace Engineer, Boston ACO Branch, Compliance & Airworthiness Division, FAA, 1200 District Avenue, Burlington, Massachusetts 01803; telephone (781) 238–7799; email: 9AVS-AIR-BACO-COS@faa.gov. Any commentary that the FAA receives which is not specifically designated as CBI will be placed in the public docket for this rulemaking. Background The FAA issued AD 2022–02–01, Amendment 39–21898 (87 FR 2316, January 14, 2022) (AD 2022–02–01), for Sikorsky Aircraft Corporation Model S– 92A helicopters with a swashplate assembly part number (P/N) 92104– 15011–042 or P/N 92104–15011–043 that has accumulated 1,600 or more total hours TIS, installed. AD 2022–02– 01 was prompted by a notification of an in-service crack in a swashplate assembly inner ring. The crack, discovered during a routine inspection, extended between the uniball bore and E:\FR\FM\17JAP1.SGM 17JAP1 Federal Register / Vol. 88, No. 10 / Tuesday, January 17, 2023 / Proposed Rules khammond on DSKJM1Z7X2PROD with PROPOSALS near the right-hand trunnion to servo attach bolt hole. This condition, if not detected and corrected, could result in fretting wear on the shoulder that supports the clamp-up of the uniball outer race, failure of the swashplate assembly, and subsequent loss of control of the helicopter. AD 2022–02– 01 requires, within 50 hours TIS and thereafter at intervals not to exceed 50 hours TIS, visually inspecting the upper and lower surfaces of the swashplate assembly for a crack, nick, dent, and scratch. If there is a crack, nick, dent, or scratch that exceeds allowable limits, AD 2022–02–01 requires removing the swashplate assembly from service before further flight. The agency issued AD 2022–02–01 to address the unsafe condition on these products. Actions Since AD 2022–02–01 Was Issued Since the FAA issued AD 2022–02– 01, Sikorsky Aircraft Corporation issued Sikorsky S–92 Helicopter Alert Service Bulletin ASB 92–62–010, Basic Issue, dated January 26, 2022 (ASB 92–62– 010), for Sikorsky Aircraft Corporation Model S–92A helicopters with serial numbers 920006 and subsequent equipped with swashplate assembly P/ N 92104–15011–042 or P/N 92104– 15011–043, delivered as of January 26, 2022 (the issuance date of ASB 92–62– 010). ASB 92–62–010 specifies a visual inspection of the swashplate assembly for cracks followed by recurring 50-hour inspections. Depending on the accrued flight time, maximum gross weight, or suspicion of cracks, ASB 92–62–010 specifies performing either an FPI or ECI. Prior to the FAA issuing AD 2022– 02–01, Sikorsky Aircraft provided a comment to the NPRM (86 FR 47041, August 23, 2021) for that AD stating that the 50-hour recurring inspections proposed in the NPRM were insufficient based on recent fatigue evaluations, which had introduced a new failure mode. Sikorsky Aircraft further stated that this new failure mode requires improved detection capability, which would be introduced in a forthcoming revision to Sikorsky S–92 Helicopter Alert Service Bulletin ASB 92–62–009, Basic Issue, dated February 6, 2019 (ASB 92–62–009). Sikorsky Aircraft explained that the planned revision would specify special inspections at 50hour, 375-hour, and 1,500-hour intervals to visually detect a potential fatigue crack at specific regions of the swashplate and would include criteria for when to accomplish an FPI or ECI. Since providing that comment, Sikorsky Aircraft has updated its guidance and retained ASB 92–62–009 and issued ASB 92–62–010. The special 375-hour VerDate Sep<11>2014 16:09 Jan 13, 2023 Jkt 259001 and 1,500-hour inspections with added specific focus on the swashplate region were incorporated into the maintenance manual and not into a service bulletin. Based on continued analysis, the FAA has determined that the unsafe condition could exist on swashplate assemblies regardless of accumulated usage and accordingly has expanded the applicability of this proposed AD. In addition, the FAA has determined it is necessary to require more detailed inspections to address the new failure mode. FAA’s Determination The FAA is issuing this NPRM after determining that the unsafe condition described previously is likely to exist or develop on other products of the same type design. Related Service Information Under 1 CFR Part 51 The FAA reviewed ASB 92–62–010, which specifies a visual inspection of the swashplate assembly to determine if there are any cracks and initiates a 50hour recurring visual inspection. If cracks are found, ASB 92–62–010 specifies replacing the swashplate assembly. Dependent on accrued flight time or suspicion of cracks, an FPI or ECI is performed. ASB 92–62–010 also specifies returning the swashplate assembly, uniball bearing, trunnions, and all attachment hardware to Sikorsky for investigation if cracks are found. This proposed AD would also require ASB 92–62–009, which the Director of the Federal Register approved for incorporation by reference as of February 18, 2022 (87 FR 2316, January 14, 2022). This service information is reasonably available because the interested parties have access to it through their normal course of business or by the means identified in ADDRESSES. Proposed AD Requirements in This NPRM This proposed AD would continue to require, for swashplate assemblies that have accumulated 1,600 or more total hours TIS, certain recurring visual inspections. This proposed AD would also expand the visual inspections required by AD 2022–02–01 and revise the applicability statement of AD 2022– 02–01. This proposed AD would require accomplishing the actions specified in the service information already described, except as discussed under ‘‘Differences Between this AD and the Service Information.’’ PO 00000 Frm 00002 Fmt 4702 Sfmt 4702 2559 Differences Between This Proposed AD and the Service Information The applicability statement in this proposed AD does not identify airframe serial numbers, whereas the effectivity of ASB 92–62–010 does. This proposed AD would affect all swashplate assemblies P/N 92104–15011–042 and P/N 92104–15011–043 regardless of delivery date, whereas the effectivity of ASB 92–62–010 is for those partnumbered swashplate assemblies delivered as of January 26, 2022 (the issuance date of ASB 92–62–010). ASB 92–62–009 specifies a one-time visual inspection of the swashplate assembly; this proposed AD would require recurring visual inspections of the swashplate assembly to determine if any crack, nick, dent, or scratch develops over time. This proposed AD does not require returning parts to or contacting Sikorsky, while ASB 92–62–009 and ASB 92–62–010 specify performing those actions. Costs of Compliance The FAA estimates that this AD, if adopted as proposed, would affect 89 helicopters of U.S. registry. The FAA estimates the following costs to comply with this proposed AD. Labor costs are estimated at $85 per work-hour. Visually inspecting a swashplate assembly would take about 1.0 workhour, for an estimated cost of $85 per helicopter and $7,565 for the U.S. fleet, per inspection cycle. Performing an ECI or FPI would take about 8.0 work-hours, for an estimated cost of $680 per helicopter and $60,520 for the U.S. fleet, per inspection cycle. Replacing the swashplate assembly, if required, would take about 16 workhours and parts cost about $389,720, for an estimated cost of $391,080 per helicopter. 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 E:\FR\FM\17JAP1.SGM 17JAP1 2560 Federal Register / Vol. 88, No. 10 / Tuesday, January 17, 2023 / Proposed Rules that authority because it addresses an unsafe condition that is likely to exist or develop on products identified in this rulemaking action. stationary swashplate assembly (swashplate assembly) part number (P/N) 92104–15011– 042 or P/N 92104–15011–043 installed. Regulatory Findings The FAA determined that this proposed AD would not have federalism implications under Executive Order 13132. This proposed AD would 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 the proposed regulation: (1) Is not a ‘‘significant regulatory action’’ under Executive Order 12866, (2) Would not affect intrastate aviation in Alaska, and (3) Would not have a significant economic impact, positive or negative, on a substantial number of small entities under the criteria of the Regulatory Flexibility Act. Joint Aircraft System Component (JASC) Code: 6230, Main Rotor Mast/Swashplate. List of Subjects in 14 CFR Part 39 Air transportation, Aircraft, Aviation safety, Incorporation by reference, Safety. The Proposed Amendment Accordingly, under the authority delegated to me by the Administrator, the FAA proposes to amend 14 CFR part 39 as follows: PART 39—AIRWORTHINESS DIRECTIVES 1. The authority citation for part 39 continues to read as follows: ■ Authority: 49 U.S.C. 106(g), 40113, 44701. § 39.13 [Amended] 2. The FAA amends § 39.13 by: a. Removing Airworthiness Directive 2022–02–01, Amendment 39–21898 (87 FR 2316, January 14, 2022); and ■ b. Adding the following new airworthiness directive: ■ ■ khammond on DSKJM1Z7X2PROD with PROPOSALS Sikorsky Aircraft Corporation: Docket No. FAA–2023–0018; Project Identifier AD– 2022–00883–R. (a) Comments Due Date The FAA must receive comments on this airworthiness directive (AD) action by March 3, 2023. (b) Affected ADs This AD replaces AD 2022–02–01, Amendment 39–21898 (87 FR 2316, January 14, 2022) (AD 2022–02–01). (c) Applicability This AD applies to Sikorsky Aircraft Corporation Model S–92A helicopters, certificated in any category, with a main rotor VerDate Sep<11>2014 16:09 Jan 13, 2023 Jkt 259001 (d) Subject (e) Unsafe Condition This AD was prompted by the discovery of a crack on the swashplate assembly inner ring. The FAA is issuing this AD to detect cracks that could result in fretting wear on the shoulder that supports the clamp-up of the uniball outer race. The unsafe condition, if not addressed, could result in failure of the swashplate assembly and subsequent loss of control of the helicopter. (f) Compliance Comply with this AD within the compliance times specified, unless already done. (g) Definition For the purposes of this AD, a ‘‘suspected crack’’ is a nick, scratch, or crack in the paint or primer that includes observable metallic base material. (h) Required Actions (1) For helicopters with swashplate assemblies identified in paragraph (c) of this AD that have accumulated 1,600 or more total hours time-in-service on the swashplate assembly, within 50 hours time-in-service (TIS) from February 18, 2022 (the effective date of AD 2022–02–01), and thereafter at intervals not to exceed 50 hours TIS, visually inspect the swashplate assembly for a crack, nick, dent, and scratch, by following the Accomplishment Instructions, Section 3, paragraph B. (except paragraphs B.(2)(a) through (c)) of Sikorsky S–92 Helicopter Alert Service Bulletin ASB 92–62–009, Basic Issue, dated February 6, 2019. If there is a crack, nick, dent, or scratch that exceeds the allowable limits, before further flight, remove the swashplate assembly from service. (2) For helicopters with swashplate assemblies identified in paragraph (c) of this AD, within 50 hours TIS after the effective date of this AD, and thereafter at intervals not to exceed 50 hours TIS, visually inspect the swashplate assembly for surface discontinuities and suspected cracks by following the Accomplishment Instructions, Section 3., paragraphs B.(1) through (3), of Sikorsky S–92 Helicopter Alert Service Bulletin ASB 92–62–010, Basic Issue, dated January 26, 2022 (ASB 92–62–010). If there is any surface discontinuity or suspected crack, before further flight, remove the trunnion and accomplish an eddy current inspection (ECI) or fluorescent penetrant inspection (FPI) for a crack by accomplishing the actions in paragraph (h)(2)(i) or (ii) of this AD, as applicable. (i) Accomplish an ECI by following the Accomplishment Instructions, Section 3, paragraphs C.(1) through (6), but not paragraph C.(6)(c)(1)., of ASB 92–62–010. (ii) Accomplish an FPI by following the Accomplishment Instructions, Section 3, paragraphs D.(1) through (5), except paragraph D.(4), of ASB 92–62–010. PO 00000 Frm 00003 Fmt 4702 Sfmt 4702 (3) For helicopters with a swashplate assembly identified in paragraph (c) of this AD certified for operation at a maximum gross weight of 26,500 lbs. that have accumulated 8,600 or more total hours TIS on the swashplate assembly, or certified for operation at a maximum gross weight of 27,700 lbs. that have accumulated 3,300 or more total hours TIS on the swashplate assembly, within 50 hours TIS after the effective date of this AD, and thereafter at intervals not to exceed 50 hours TIS, with the trunnion installed, accomplish an ECI or FPI of the uniball lower bore lip, uniball upper bore, and each trunnion mount bolt hole for a crack by accomplishing the actions in paragraph (h)(3)(i) or (ii) of this AD, as applicable. (i) Accomplish an ECI by following the Accomplishment Instructions, Section 3, paragraphs C.(2) through (6), but not paragraph C.(6)(c)1., of ASB 92–62–010. (ii) Accomplish an FPI by following the Accomplishment Instructions, Section 3, paragraphs D.(2), (3), and (5) of ASB 92–62– 010. (4) If there is a crack as a result of any of the inspections required by paragraph (h)(2) or (3) of this AD, before further flight, remove the swashplate assembly from service. (i) Alternative Methods of Compliance (AMOCs) (1) The Manager, Boston ACO, Compliance & Airworthiness Division, 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 (j) of this AD. (2) Before using any approved AMOC, notify your appropriate principal inspector, or lacking a principal inspector, the manager of the local flight standards district office/ certificate holding district office. (j) Related Information For more information about this AD, contact Jared Hyman, Aerospace Engineer, Boston ACO Branch, Compliance & Airworthiness Division, FAA, 1200 District Avenue, Burlington, Massachusetts 01803; telephone (781) 238–7799; email: 9-AVS-AIRBACO-COS@faa.gov. (k) Material Incorporated by Reference (1) The Director of the Federal Register approved the incorporation by reference (IBR) of the service information listed in this paragraph under 5 U.S.C. 552(a) and 1 CFR part 51. (2) You must use this service information as applicable to do the actions required by this AD, unless the AD specifies otherwise. (3) The following service information was approved for IBR on [DATE 35 DAYS AFTER PUBLICATION OF THE FINAL RULE]. (i) Sikorsky S–92 Helicopter Alert Service Bulletin ASB 92–62–010, Basic Issue, dated January 26, 2022. (ii) [Reserved] E:\FR\FM\17JAP1.SGM 17JAP1 Federal Register / Vol. 88, No. 10 / Tuesday, January 17, 2023 / Proposed Rules (4) The following service information was approved for IBR on February 18, 2022 (87 FR 2316, January 14, 2022). (i) Sikorsky S–92 Helicopter Alert Service Bulletin ASB 92–62–009, Basic Issue, dated February 6, 2019. (ii) [Reserved] (5) For Sikorsky Aircraft Corporation service information identified in this AD, contact your local Sikorsky Field Representative or Sikorsky’s Service Engineering Group at Sikorsky Aircraft Corporation, Mailstop K100, 124 Quarry Road, Trumbull, CT 06611; telephone 1–800– 946–4337 (1–800–Winged–S); email wcs_ cust_service_eng.gr-sik@lmco.com. Operators may also log on to the Sikorsky 360 website at sikorsky360.com. (6) 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. (7) You may view this service information that is incorporated by reference at the National Archives and Records Administration (NARA). For information on the availability of this material at NARA, email: fr.inspection@nara.gov, or go to: www.archives.gov/federal-register/cfr/ibrlocations.html. Issued on January 10, 2023. Christina Underwood, Acting Director, Compliance & Airworthiness Division, Aircraft Certification Service. [FR Doc. 2023–00698 Filed 1–13–23; 8:45 am] BILLING CODE 4910–13–P DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION Federal Aviation Administration 14 CFR Part 71 [Docket No. FAA–2022–1798 Airspace Docket No. 22–AAL–32] RIN 2120–AA66 Proposed Revocation of Colored Federal Airway Blue 2 (B–2); Point Lay, AK Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), DOT. ACTION: Notice of proposed rulemaking (NPRM). AGENCY: This action proposes to revoke Colored Federal airway Blue 2 (B–2) in the vicinity of Point Lay, AK due to the pending decommissioning of the Point Lay (PIZ) Non-directional Beacon (NDB), Hotham NDB (HHM), and Fort Davis NDB (FDV) in Alaska. DATES: Comments must be received on or before March 3, 2023. ADDRESSES: Send comments on this proposal to the U.S. Department of Transportation, Docket Operations, 1200 New Jersey Avenue SE, West Building khammond on DSKJM1Z7X2PROD with PROPOSALS SUMMARY: VerDate Sep<11>2014 16:09 Jan 13, 2023 Jkt 259001 Ground Floor, Room W12–140, Washington, DC 20590; telephone: (800) 647–5527, or (202) 366–9826. You must identify FAA Docket No. FAA–2022– 1798 Airspace Docket No. 22–AAL–32 at the beginning of your comments. You may also submit comments through the internet at www.regulations.gov. FAA Order JO 7400.11G, Airspace Designations and Reporting Points, and subsequent amendments can be viewed online at www.faa.gov/air_traffic/ publications/. For further information, you can contact the Rules and Regulations Group, Federal Aviation Administration, 800 Independence Avenue SW, Washington, DC 20591; telephone: (202) 267–8783. FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Steven Roff, Rules and Regulations Group, Office of Policy, Federal Aviation Administration, 800 Independence Avenue SW, Washington, DC 20591; telephone: (202) 267–3657. SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: Authority for This Rulemaking The FAA’s authority to issue rules regarding aviation safety is found in Title 49 of the United States Code. 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. This rulemaking is promulgated under the authority described in Subtitle VII, Part A, Subpart I, Section 40103. Under that section, the FAA is charged with prescribing regulations to assign the use of the airspace necessary to ensure the safety of aircraft and the efficient use of airspace. This regulation is within the scope of that authority as it would modify the route structure as necessary to preserve the safe and efficient flow of air traffic within the National Airspace System (NAS). Comments Invited Interested parties are invited to participate in this proposed rulemaking by submitting such written data, views, or arguments as they may desire. Comments that provide the factual basis supporting the views and suggestions presented are particularly helpful in developing reasoned regulatory decisions on the proposal. Comments are specifically invited on the overall regulatory, aeronautical, economic, environmental, and energy-related aspects of the proposal. Communications should identify both docket numbers (FAA Docket No. FAA– 2022–1798 Airspace Docket No. 22– AAL–32) and be submitted in triplicate to the Docket Management Facility (see PO 00000 Frm 00004 Fmt 4702 Sfmt 4702 2561 ADDRESSES section for address and phone number). You may also submit comments through the internet at www.regulations.gov. Commenters wishing the FAA to acknowledge receipt of their comments on this action must submit with those comments a self-addressed, stamped postcard on which the following statement is made: ‘‘Comments to FAA Docket No. FAA–2022–1798 Airspace Docket No. 22–AAL–32.’’ The postcard will be date/time stamped and returned to the commenter. All communications received on or before the specified comment closing date will be considered before taking action on the proposed rule. The proposal contained in this action may be changed in light of comments received. All comments submitted will be available for examination in the public docket both before and after the comment closing date. A report summarizing each substantive public contact with FAA personnel concerned with this rulemaking will be filed in the docket. Availability of NPRM An electronic copy of this document may be downloaded through the internet at https://www.regulations.gov. Recently published rulemaking documents can also be accessed through the FAA’s web page at www.faa.gov/air_ traffic/publications/airspace_ amendments/. You may review the public docket containing the proposal, any comments received and any final disposition in person in the Dockets Office (see ADDRESSES section for address and phone number) between 9:00 a.m. and 5:00 p.m., Monday through Friday, except Federal holidays. An informal docket may also be examined during normal business hours at the office of the Operations Support Group, Western Service Center, Federal Aviation Administration, 2200 South 216th St., Des Moines, WA 98198. Availability and Summary of Documents for Incorporation by Reference This document proposes to amend FAA Order JO 7400.11G, Airspace Designations and Reporting Points, dated August 19, 2022, and effective September 15, 2022. FAA Order JO 7400.11G is publicly available as listed in the ADDRESSES section of this document. FAA Order JO 7400.11G lists Class A, B, C, D, and E airspace areas, air traffic service routes, and reporting points. E:\FR\FM\17JAP1.SGM 17JAP1

Agencies

[Federal Register Volume 88, Number 10 (Tuesday, January 17, 2023)]
[Proposed Rules]
[Pages 2558-2561]
From the Federal Register Online via the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]
[FR Doc No: 2023-00698]


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Proposed Rules
                                                Federal Register
________________________________________________________________________

This section of the FEDERAL REGISTER contains notices to the public of 
the proposed issuance of rules and regulations. The purpose of these 
notices is to give interested persons an opportunity to participate in 
the rule making prior to the adoption of the final rules.

========================================================================


Federal Register / Vol. 88, No. 10 / Tuesday, January 17, 2023 / 
Proposed Rules

[[Page 2558]]



DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION

Federal Aviation Administration

14 CFR Part 39

[Docket No. FAA-2023-0018; Project Identifier AD-2022-00883-R]
RIN 2120-AA64


Airworthiness Directives; Sikorsky Aircraft Corporation 
Helicopters

AGENCY: Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), DOT.

ACTION: Notice of proposed rulemaking (NPRM).

-----------------------------------------------------------------------

SUMMARY: The FAA proposes to supersede Airworthiness Directive (AD) 
2022-02-01, which applies to Sikorsky Aircraft Corporation Model S-92A 
helicopters with certain part-numbered main rotor stationary swashplate 
assemblies (swashplate assemblies) that have accumulated 1,600 or more 
total hours time-in-service (TIS) installed. AD 2022-02-01 requires 
visually inspecting the swashplate assembly at specified intervals and 
depending on the results, removing the swashplate assembly from 
service. Since the FAA issued AD 2022-02-01, the FAA determined it was 
necessary to expand the applicability and require more detailed 
inspections to address the unsafe condition. This proposed AD would 
retain the actions of AD 2022-02-01, expand the applicability, add a 
detailed recurring visual inspection, and require either eddy current 
inspections (ECI) or fluorescent penetrant inspections (FPI). The FAA 
is proposing this AD to address the unsafe condition on these products.

DATES: The FAA must receive comments on this proposed AD by March 3, 
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 by 
searching for and locating Docket No. FAA-2023-0018; 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 NPRM, any comments 
received, and other information. The street address for Docket 
Operations is listed above.
    Material Incorporated by Reference:
     For Sikorsky service information identified in this NPRM, 
contact your local Sikorsky Field Representative or Sikorsky's Service 
Engineering Group at Sikorsky Aircraft Corporation, Mailstop K100, 124 
Quarry Road, Trumbull, CT 06611; telephone 1-800-946-4337 (1-800-
Winged-S); email [email protected]. Operators may 
also log on to the Sikorsky 360 website at sikorsky360.com.
     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.

FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Jared Hyman, Aerospace Engineer, 
Boston ACO Branch, Compliance & Airworthiness Division, FAA, 1200 
District Avenue, Burlington, Massachusetts 01803; telephone (781) 238-
7799; email: [email protected].

SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION:

Comments Invited

    The FAA invites you to send any written relevant data, views, or 
arguments about this proposal. Send your comments to an address listed 
under ADDRESSES. Include ``Docket No. FAA-2023-0018; Project Identifier 
AD-2022-00883-R'' at the beginning of your comments. The most helpful 
comments reference a specific portion of the proposal, 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 
the proposal 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 NPRM.

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 NPRM 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 NPRM, 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 NPRM. Submissions containing CBI should be sent to Jared 
Hyman, Aerospace Engineer, Boston ACO Branch, Compliance & 
Airworthiness Division, FAA, 1200 District Avenue, Burlington, 
Massachusetts 01803; telephone (781) 238-7799; email: [email protected]. Any commentary that the FAA receives which is not 
specifically designated as CBI will be placed in the public docket for 
this rulemaking.

Background

    The FAA issued AD 2022-02-01, Amendment 39-21898 (87 FR 2316, 
January 14, 2022) (AD 2022-02-01), for Sikorsky Aircraft Corporation 
Model S-92A helicopters with a swashplate assembly part number (P/N) 
92104-15011-042 or P/N 92104-15011-043 that has accumulated 1,600 or 
more total hours TIS, installed. AD 2022-02-01 was prompted by a 
notification of an in-service crack in a swashplate assembly inner 
ring. The crack, discovered during a routine inspection, extended 
between the uniball bore and

[[Page 2559]]

near the right-hand trunnion to servo attach bolt hole. This condition, 
if not detected and corrected, could result in fretting wear on the 
shoulder that supports the clamp-up of the uniball outer race, failure 
of the swashplate assembly, and subsequent loss of control of the 
helicopter. AD 2022-02-01 requires, within 50 hours TIS and thereafter 
at intervals not to exceed 50 hours TIS, visually inspecting the upper 
and lower surfaces of the swashplate assembly for a crack, nick, dent, 
and scratch. If there is a crack, nick, dent, or scratch that exceeds 
allowable limits, AD 2022-02-01 requires removing the swashplate 
assembly from service before further flight. The agency issued AD 2022-
02-01 to address the unsafe condition on these products.

Actions Since AD 2022-02-01 Was Issued

    Since the FAA issued AD 2022-02-01, Sikorsky Aircraft Corporation 
issued Sikorsky S-92 Helicopter Alert Service Bulletin ASB 92-62-010, 
Basic Issue, dated January 26, 2022 (ASB 92-62-010), for Sikorsky 
Aircraft Corporation Model S-92A helicopters with serial numbers 920006 
and subsequent equipped with swashplate assembly P/N 92104-15011-042 or 
P/N 92104-15011-043, delivered as of January 26, 2022 (the issuance 
date of ASB 92-62-010). ASB 92-62-010 specifies a visual inspection of 
the swashplate assembly for cracks followed by recurring 50-hour 
inspections. Depending on the accrued flight time, maximum gross 
weight, or suspicion of cracks, ASB 92-62-010 specifies performing 
either an FPI or ECI. Prior to the FAA issuing AD 2022-02-01, Sikorsky 
Aircraft provided a comment to the NPRM (86 FR 47041, August 23, 2021) 
for that AD stating that the 50-hour recurring inspections proposed in 
the NPRM were insufficient based on recent fatigue evaluations, which 
had introduced a new failure mode. Sikorsky Aircraft further stated 
that this new failure mode requires improved detection capability, 
which would be introduced in a forthcoming revision to Sikorsky S-92 
Helicopter Alert Service Bulletin ASB 92-62-009, Basic Issue, dated 
February 6, 2019 (ASB 92-62-009). Sikorsky Aircraft explained that the 
planned revision would specify special inspections at 50-hour, 375-
hour, and 1,500-hour intervals to visually detect a potential fatigue 
crack at specific regions of the swashplate and would include criteria 
for when to accomplish an FPI or ECI. Since providing that comment, 
Sikorsky Aircraft has updated its guidance and retained ASB 92-62-009 
and issued ASB 92-62-010. The special 375-hour and 1,500-hour 
inspections with added specific focus on the swashplate region were 
incorporated into the maintenance manual and not into a service 
bulletin. Based on continued analysis, the FAA has determined that the 
unsafe condition could exist on swashplate assemblies regardless of 
accumulated usage and accordingly has expanded the applicability of 
this proposed AD. In addition, the FAA has determined it is necessary 
to require more detailed inspections to address the new failure mode.

FAA's Determination

    The FAA is issuing this NPRM after determining that the unsafe 
condition described previously is likely to exist or develop on other 
products of the same type design.

Related Service Information Under 1 CFR Part 51

    The FAA reviewed ASB 92-62-010, which specifies a visual inspection 
of the swashplate assembly to determine if there are any cracks and 
initiates a 50-hour recurring visual inspection. If cracks are found, 
ASB 92-62-010 specifies replacing the swashplate assembly. Dependent on 
accrued flight time or suspicion of cracks, an FPI or ECI is performed. 
ASB 92-62-010 also specifies returning the swashplate assembly, uniball 
bearing, trunnions, and all attachment hardware to Sikorsky for 
investigation if cracks are found.
    This proposed AD would also require ASB 92-62-009, which the 
Director of the Federal Register approved for incorporation by 
reference as of February 18, 2022 (87 FR 2316, January 14, 2022).
    This service information is reasonably available because the 
interested parties have access to it through their normal course of 
business or by the means identified in ADDRESSES.

Proposed AD Requirements in This NPRM

    This proposed AD would continue to require, for swashplate 
assemblies that have accumulated 1,600 or more total hours TIS, certain 
recurring visual inspections. This proposed AD would also expand the 
visual inspections required by AD 2022-02-01 and revise the 
applicability statement of AD 2022-02-01. This proposed AD would 
require accomplishing the actions specified in the service information 
already described, except as discussed under ``Differences Between this 
AD and the Service Information.''

Differences Between This Proposed AD and the Service Information

    The applicability statement in this proposed AD does not identify 
airframe serial numbers, whereas the effectivity of ASB 92-62-010 does. 
This proposed AD would affect all swashplate assemblies P/N 92104-
15011-042 and P/N 92104-15011-043 regardless of delivery date, whereas 
the effectivity of ASB 92-62-010 is for those part-numbered swashplate 
assemblies delivered as of January 26, 2022 (the issuance date of ASB 
92-62-010). ASB 92-62-009 specifies a one-time visual inspection of the 
swashplate assembly; this proposed AD would require recurring visual 
inspections of the swashplate assembly to determine if any crack, nick, 
dent, or scratch develops over time. This proposed AD does not require 
returning parts to or contacting Sikorsky, while ASB 92-62-009 and ASB 
92-62-010 specify performing those actions.

Costs of Compliance

    The FAA estimates that this AD, if adopted as proposed, would 
affect 89 helicopters of U.S. registry. The FAA estimates the following 
costs to comply with this proposed AD. Labor costs are estimated at $85 
per work-hour.
    Visually inspecting a swashplate assembly would take about 1.0 
work-hour, for an estimated cost of $85 per helicopter and $7,565 for 
the U.S. fleet, per inspection cycle.
    Performing an ECI or FPI would take about 8.0 work-hours, for an 
estimated cost of $680 per helicopter and $60,520 for the U.S. fleet, 
per inspection cycle.
    Replacing the swashplate assembly, if required, would take about 16 
work-hours and parts cost about $389,720, for an estimated cost of 
$391,080 per helicopter.

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

[[Page 2560]]

that authority because it addresses an unsafe condition that is likely 
to exist or develop on products identified in this rulemaking action.

Regulatory Findings

    The FAA determined that this proposed AD would not have federalism 
implications under Executive Order 13132. This proposed AD would 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 the proposed 
regulation:
    (1) Is not a ``significant regulatory action'' under Executive 
Order 12866,
    (2) Would not affect intrastate aviation in Alaska, and
    (3) Would 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 Proposed Amendment

    Accordingly, under the authority delegated to me by the 
Administrator, the FAA proposes to amend 14 CFR part 39 as follows:

PART 39--AIRWORTHINESS DIRECTIVES

0
1. The authority citation for part 39 continues to read as follows:

    Authority: 49 U.S.C. 106(g), 40113, 44701.


Sec.  39.13   [Amended]

0
2. The FAA amends Sec.  39.13 by:
0
a. Removing Airworthiness Directive 2022-02-01, Amendment 39-21898 (87 
FR 2316, January 14, 2022); and
0
b. Adding the following new airworthiness directive:

Sikorsky Aircraft Corporation: Docket No. FAA-2023-0018; Project 
Identifier AD-2022-00883-R.

(a) Comments Due Date

    The FAA must receive comments on this airworthiness directive 
(AD) action by March 3, 2023.

(b) Affected ADs

    This AD replaces AD 2022-02-01, Amendment 39-21898 (87 FR 2316, 
January 14, 2022) (AD 2022-02-01).

(c) Applicability

    This AD applies to Sikorsky Aircraft Corporation Model S-92A 
helicopters, certificated in any category, with a main rotor 
stationary swashplate assembly (swashplate assembly) part number (P/
N) 92104-15011-042 or P/N 92104-15011-043 installed.

(d) Subject

    Joint Aircraft System Component (JASC) Code: 6230, Main Rotor 
Mast/Swashplate.

(e) Unsafe Condition

    This AD was prompted by the discovery of a crack on the 
swashplate assembly inner ring. The FAA is issuing this AD to detect 
cracks that could result in fretting wear on the shoulder that 
supports the clamp-up of the uniball outer race. The unsafe 
condition, if not addressed, could result in failure of the 
swashplate assembly and subsequent loss of control of the 
helicopter.

(f) Compliance

    Comply with this AD within the compliance times specified, 
unless already done.

(g) Definition

    For the purposes of this AD, a ``suspected crack'' is a nick, 
scratch, or crack in the paint or primer that includes observable 
metallic base material.

(h) Required Actions

    (1) For helicopters with swashplate assemblies identified in 
paragraph (c) of this AD that have accumulated 1,600 or more total 
hours time-in-service on the swashplate assembly, within 50 hours 
time-in-service (TIS) from February 18, 2022 (the effective date of 
AD 2022-02-01), and thereafter at intervals not to exceed 50 hours 
TIS, visually inspect the swashplate assembly for a crack, nick, 
dent, and scratch, by following the Accomplishment Instructions, 
Section 3, paragraph B. (except paragraphs B.(2)(a) through (c)) of 
Sikorsky S-92 Helicopter Alert Service Bulletin ASB 92-62-009, Basic 
Issue, dated February 6, 2019. If there is a crack, nick, dent, or 
scratch that exceeds the allowable limits, before further flight, 
remove the swashplate assembly from service.
    (2) For helicopters with swashplate assemblies identified in 
paragraph (c) of this AD, within 50 hours TIS after the effective 
date of this AD, and thereafter at intervals not to exceed 50 hours 
TIS, visually inspect the swashplate assembly for surface 
discontinuities and suspected cracks by following the Accomplishment 
Instructions, Section 3., paragraphs B.(1) through (3), of Sikorsky 
S-92 Helicopter Alert Service Bulletin ASB 92-62-010, Basic Issue, 
dated January 26, 2022 (ASB 92-62-010). If there is any surface 
discontinuity or suspected crack, before further flight, remove the 
trunnion and accomplish an eddy current inspection (ECI) or 
fluorescent penetrant inspection (FPI) for a crack by accomplishing 
the actions in paragraph (h)(2)(i) or (ii) of this AD, as 
applicable.
    (i) Accomplish an ECI by following the Accomplishment 
Instructions, Section 3, paragraphs C.(1) through (6), but not 
paragraph C.(6)(c)(1)., of ASB 92-62-010.
    (ii) Accomplish an FPI by following the Accomplishment 
Instructions, Section 3, paragraphs D.(1) through (5), except 
paragraph D.(4), of ASB 92-62-010.
    (3) For helicopters with a swashplate assembly identified in 
paragraph (c) of this AD certified for operation at a maximum gross 
weight of 26,500 lbs. that have accumulated 8,600 or more total 
hours TIS on the swashplate assembly, or certified for operation at 
a maximum gross weight of 27,700 lbs. that have accumulated 3,300 or 
more total hours TIS on the swashplate assembly, within 50 hours TIS 
after the effective date of this AD, and thereafter at intervals not 
to exceed 50 hours TIS, with the trunnion installed, accomplish an 
ECI or FPI of the uniball lower bore lip, uniball upper bore, and 
each trunnion mount bolt hole for a crack by accomplishing the 
actions in paragraph (h)(3)(i) or (ii) of this AD, as applicable.
    (i) Accomplish an ECI by following the Accomplishment 
Instructions, Section 3, paragraphs C.(2) through (6), but not 
paragraph C.(6)(c)1., of ASB 92-62-010.
    (ii) Accomplish an FPI by following the Accomplishment 
Instructions, Section 3, paragraphs D.(2), (3), and (5) of ASB 92-
62-010.
    (4) If there is a crack as a result of any of the inspections 
required by paragraph (h)(2) or (3) of this AD, before further 
flight, remove the swashplate assembly from service.

(i) Alternative Methods of Compliance (AMOCs)

    (1) The Manager, Boston ACO, Compliance & Airworthiness 
Division, 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 (j) 
of this AD.
    (2) Before using any approved AMOC, notify your appropriate 
principal inspector, or lacking a principal inspector, the manager 
of the local flight standards district office/certificate holding 
district office.

(j) Related Information

    For more information about this AD, contact Jared Hyman, 
Aerospace Engineer, Boston ACO Branch, Compliance & Airworthiness 
Division, FAA, 1200 District Avenue, Burlington, Massachusetts 
01803; telephone (781) 238-7799; email: [email protected].

(k) Material Incorporated by Reference

    (1) The Director of the Federal Register approved the 
incorporation by reference (IBR) of the service information listed 
in this paragraph under 5 U.S.C. 552(a) and 1 CFR part 51.
    (2) You must use this service information as applicable to do 
the actions required by this AD, unless the AD specifies otherwise.
    (3) The following service information was approved for IBR on 
[DATE 35 DAYS AFTER PUBLICATION OF THE FINAL RULE].
    (i) Sikorsky S-92 Helicopter Alert Service Bulletin ASB 92-62-
010, Basic Issue, dated January 26, 2022.
    (ii) [Reserved]

[[Page 2561]]

    (4) The following service information was approved for IBR on 
February 18, 2022 (87 FR 2316, January 14, 2022).
    (i) Sikorsky S-92 Helicopter Alert Service Bulletin ASB 92-62-
009, Basic Issue, dated February 6, 2019.
    (ii) [Reserved]
    (5) For Sikorsky Aircraft Corporation service information 
identified in this AD, contact your local Sikorsky Field 
Representative or Sikorsky's Service Engineering Group at Sikorsky 
Aircraft Corporation, Mailstop K100, 124 Quarry Road, Trumbull, CT 
06611; telephone 1-800-946-4337 (1-800-Winged-S); email 
[email protected]. Operators may also log on to 
the Sikorsky 360 website at sikorsky360.com.
    (6) 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.
    (7) You may view this service information that is incorporated 
by reference at the National Archives and Records Administration 
(NARA). For information on the availability of this material at 
NARA, email: [email protected], or go to: www.archives.gov/federal-register/cfr/ibr-locations.html.

    Issued on January 10, 2023.
Christina Underwood,
Acting Director, Compliance & Airworthiness Division, Aircraft 
Certification Service.
[FR Doc. 2023-00698 Filed 1-13-23; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE 4910-13-P
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