Airworthiness Directives; Bell Textron Canada Limited Helicopters, 22900-22903 [2023-07779]
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Federal Register / Vol. 88, No. 72 / Friday, April 14, 2023 / Rules and Regulations
(ii) Before further flight, replace the
transfer pump motor impeller with a transfer
pump motor impeller having a serviceable
inlet adapter, in accordance with paragraph
D., Work Instructions, Attachment A, Boeing
Multiple Operator Message MOM–MOM–22–
0549–01B(R1), dated November 29, 2022.
(j) Retained Reporting Inspection Results,
With No Changes
This paragraph restates the requirements of
paragraph (j) of AD 2022–27–07, with no
changes. At the applicable time specified in
paragraph (j)(1) or (2) of this AD, submit a
report of all findings of the inspections
required by paragraphs (h) and (i) of this AD,
in accordance with paragraph G. and
Appendix A, Attachment A, Boeing Multiple
Operator Message MOM–MOM–22–0549–
01B(R1), dated November 29, 2022.
(1) If the inspection was done on or after
January 13, 2023 (the effective date of AD
2022–27–07): Submit the report within 30
days after the inspection.
(2) If the inspection was done before
January 13, 2023 (the effective date of AD
2022–27–07): Submit the report within 30
days after January 13, 2023.
(k) Retained Parts Installation Limitation,
With Revised Affected Parts
This paragraph restates the requirements of
paragraph (k) of AD 2022–27–07, with
revised affected parts. As of January 13, 2023
(the effective date of AD 2022–27–07), no
person may install, on any airplane, a Crane
Aerospace Hydro-Aire horizontal stabilizer
fuel transfer pump housing or transfer pump
motor impeller, unless the transfer pump
motor impeller inlet adaptor and transfer
pump housing inlet check valve have been
inspected as specified in paragraph (h) or (i)
of this AD, as applicable, and been
determined to be a serviceable part as
defined in paragraph (g)(1) or (2) of this AD.
(l) Retained Credit for Previous Actions,
With No Changes
This paragraph restates the provisions of
paragraph (l) of AD 2022–27–07, with no
changes. This paragraph provides credit for
actions required by paragraphs (h) and (i) of
this AD, if those actions were performed
before January 13, 2023 (the effective date of
AD 2022–27–07) using Boeing Multiple
Operator Message MOM–MOM–22–0549–
01B, dated November 21, 2022.
ddrumheller on DSK120RN23PROD with RULES1
(m) Special Flight Permit
Special flight permits may be issued in
accordance with 14 CFR 21.197 and 21.199
to operate the airplane to a location where
the actions required by this AD can be
performed, provided the horizontal stabilizer
fuel tank is defueled and both transfer pump
circuit breakers are locked in the ‘‘open’’
position.
(n) Alternative Methods of Compliance
(AMOCs)
(1) The Manager, Seattle ACO 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 responsible Flight
Standards Office, as appropriate. If sending
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information directly to the manager of the
certification office, send it to the attention of
the person identified in paragraph (o)(1) of
this AD. Information may be emailed to: 9ANM-Seattle-ACO-AMOC-Requests@faa.gov.
(2) Before using any approved AMOC,
notify your appropriate principal inspector,
or lacking a principal inspector, the manager
of the responsible Flight Standards Office.
(3) An AMOC that provides an acceptable
level of safety may be used for any repair,
modification, or alteration required by this
AD if it is approved by The Boeing Company
Organization Designation Authorization
(ODA) that has been authorized by the
Manager, Seattle ACO Branch, FAA, to make
those findings. To be approved, the repair
method, modification deviation, or alteration
deviation must meet the certification basis of
the airplane, and the approval must
specifically refer to this AD.
Issued on April 8, 2023.
Christina Underwood,
Acting Director, Compliance & Airworthiness
Division, Aircraft Certification Service.
(o) Related Information
AGENCY:
(1) For more information about this AD,
contact Samuel Dorsey, Aerospace Engineer,
Propulsion Section, FAA, Seattle ACO
Branch, 2200 South 216th St., Des Moines,
WA 98198; phone: 206–231–3415; email:
Samuel.j.dorsey@faa.gov.
(2) Service information identified in this
AD that is not incorporated by reference is
available at the addresses specified in
paragraphs (p)(4) and (5) of this AD.
(p) Material Incorporated by Reference
(1) The Director of the Federal Register
approved the incorporation by reference
(IBR) of the service information listed in this
paragraph under 5 U.S.C. 552(a) and 1 CFR
part 51.
(2) You must use this service information
as applicable to do the actions required by
this AD, unless this AD specifies otherwise.
(3) The following service information was
approved for IBR on January 13, 2023 (87 FR
80028, December 29, 2022).
(i) Boeing Multiple Operator Message
MOM–MOM–22–0549–01B(R1), dated
November 29, 2022.
(ii) [Reserved]
(4) For Boeing service information
identified in this AD, contact Boeing
Commercial Airplanes, Attention:
Contractual & Data Services (C&DS), 2600
Westminster Blvd., MC 110–SK57, Seal
Beach, CA 90740–5600; telephone 562–797–
1717; website myboeingfleet.com.
(5) You may view this service information
at the FAA, Airworthiness Products Section,
Operational Safety Branch, 2200 South 216th
St., Des Moines, WA. For information on the
availability of this material at the FAA, call
206–231–3195.
(6) 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.
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[FR Doc. 2023–08027 Filed 4–12–23; 4:15 pm]
BILLING CODE 4910–13–P
DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION
Federal Aviation Administration
14 CFR Part 39
[Docket No. FAA–2022–1488; Project
Identifier MCAI–2022–00788–R; Amendment
39–22391; AD 2023–06–05]
RIN 2120–AA64
Airworthiness Directives; Bell Textron
Canada Limited Helicopters
Federal Aviation
Administration (FAA), DOT.
ACTION: Final rule.
The FAA is adopting a new
airworthiness directive (AD) for all Bell
Textron Canada Limited Model 206A,
206A–1 (OH–58A), 206B, 206B–1, 206L,
206L–1, 206L–3, and 206L–4
helicopters. This AD was prompted by
a loss of tail rotor (TR) drive due to a
failure of an adhesively bonded joint
between an adapter and a tube on one
of the segmented TR drive shaft (TRDS)
assemblies. This AD requires
determining if an affected TRDS is
installed; repetitively inspecting the
bond line for damage; repetitively
performing a proof load test of the TRDS
assembly; and depending on the results
of the inspections or the proof load
tests, removing an affected TRDS from
service and replacing it with a
serviceable TRDS. This AD also
prohibits installing a TRDS unless it
meets certain requirements, 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 is effective May 19,
2023.
The Director of the Federal Register
approved the incorporation by reference
of a certain publication listed in this AD
as of May 19, 2023.
ADDRESSES:
AD Docket: You may examine the AD
docket at regulations.gov under Docket
No. FAA–2022–1488; or in person at
Docket Operations between 9 a.m. and
5 p.m., Monday through Friday, except
Federal holidays. The AD docket
contains this final rule, any comments
received, and other information. The
address for Docket Operations is U.S.
Department of Transportation, Docket
SUMMARY:
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Operations, M–30, West Building
Ground Floor, Room W12–140, 1200
New Jersey Avenue SE, Washington, DC
20590.
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 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–2022–1488.
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
productsupport@bellflight.com; or at
bellflight.com/support/contact-support.
This service information is also
available 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:
ddrumheller on DSK120RN23PROD with RULES1
Background
Transport Canada, which is the
aviation authority for Canada, has
issued Transport Canada AD CF–2022–
33, dated June 15, 2022 (Transport
Canada AD CF–2022–33), to correct an
unsafe condition for Bell Textron
Canada Limited Model 206A, 206A–1,
206B, 206B–1, 206L, 206L–1, 206L–3
and 206L–4 helicopters, all serial
numbers.
The FAA issued a notice of proposed
rulemaking (NPRM) to amend 14 CFR
part 39 by adding an AD that would
apply to Bell Textron Canada Limited
Model 206A, 206A–1 (OH–58A), 206B,
206B–1, 206L, 206L–1, 206L–3, and
206L–4 helicopters, all serial numbers.
The NPRM published in the Federal
Register on November 28, 2022 (87 FR
72899). The NPRM was prompted by a
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report in which a Bell Textron Canada
Limited Model 206L–1 helicopter
experienced loss of TR drive during a
maintenance test flight, which was due
to a failure of an adhesively bonded
joint between an adapter and a tube on
one of the segmented TRDS assemblies.
The NPRM proposed to require
determining if an affected TRDS is
installed; repetitively inspecting the
bond line for damage; repetitively
performing a proof load test of the TRDS
assembly; and depending on the results
of the inspections or the proof load
tests, removing an affected TRDS from
service and replacing it with a
serviceable TRDS. The NPRM also
proposed to prohibit installing a TRDS
unless it meets certain requirements, as
specified in Transport Canada AD CF–
2022–33.
Discussion of Final Airworthiness
Directive
Comments
The FAA received comments from
one individual commenter. The
following presents the comments
received on the NPRM and the FAA’s
response to each comment.
Request To Not Incorporate the
Transport Canada AD by Reference
One individual requested that the
FAA not reference Transport Canada AD
CF–2022–33 in the FAA AD. The
commenter stated Transport Canada AD
CF–2022–33 either repeats the
instructions found in the alert service
bulletin (ASB) or directs the reader to
the ASB. Additionally, the commenter
stated referencing Transport Canada
ADs is a new practice and the Transport
Canada ADs should only be referenced
if they make a substantial addition to
the ASB requirements.
The FAA disagrees with both the
request to not require compliance with
Transport Canada AD CF–2022–33 in
the FAA AD and the request to
discontinue the method of requiring
compliance with some foreign ADs
issued by the foreign state of design
authority. 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 ADs as
the primary source of information for
compliance with requirements for
corresponding FAA ADs. FAA ADs that
require compliance with foreign ADs
have been utilized since 2018 for some
products and since 2022 for Bell
Textron Canada Limited helicopters.
Referring to Transport Canada AD CF–
2022–33 minimizes the need for
Alternative Methods of Compliance.
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22901
Conclusion
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 reviewed
the relevant data, considered the
comments received, and determined
that air safety requires adopting this AD
as proposed. Accordingly, the FAA is
issuing this AD to address the unsafe
condition on these helicopters. This AD
is adopted as proposed in the NPRM.
Related Service Information Under 1
CFR Part 51
Transport Canada AD CF–2022–33
requires determining if a helicopter has
an affected TRDS installed. If there is an
affected TRDS installed, Transport
Canada AD CF–2022–33 requires
performing a repetitive detailed
inspection of the bond line of the
inboard end of the flange and, if there
is damage, replacing the affected TRDS
with a serviceable TRDS. Transport
Canada AD CF–2022–33 also requires
performing a repetitive proof load test of
the TRDS assembly and replacing any
TRDS that fails the proof load test.
Transport Canada AD CF–2022–33 also
prohibits installing a TRDS unless
certain requirements are met.
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 ASB
206–20–139, Revision A, dated August
21, 2020 for Model 206A, 206B, and
TH–67 helicopters, and Bell ASB 206L–
20–184, Revision C, dated January 14,
2021 for Model 206L, 206L–1, 206L–3,
and 206L–4 helicopters. This service
information specifies procedures for
repetitive detailed visual inspections
and proof load tests of installed bonded
TRDSs, and replacement of an affected
bonded TRDS that fails a visual
inspection or proof load test with a
serviceable segmented bonded TRDS or
a riveted TRDS. This service
information also specifies that replacing
all the bonded TRDS assemblies with
riveted TRDS assemblies is a
terminating action for the repetitive
visual inspections and proof load tests.
The FAA reviewed Bell Helicopter
Technical Bulletin (TB) No. 206–06–
186, Revision B, dated September 7,
2007, and Bell Helicopter Textron TB
No. 206L–02–207, Revision A, dated
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January 22, 2003, which both specify
procedures for installing a riveted TRDS
and rotor break disc; inspecting the aft
short shaft and driveshaft assemblies;
and stripping and painting the aft short
shaft and driveshaft assemblies.
Differences Between This AD, the
Transport Canada AD, and the Service
Information
Where the service information
referenced in Transport Canada AD CF–
2022–33 specifies recording certain
information in the event of a bond line
failure and notifying Bell Product
Support Engineering of the findings,
this AD does not require recording any
information or reporting any
information to Bell Product Support
Engineering.
Costs of Compliance
The FAA estimates that this AD
affects 1,395 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.
Determining if an affected TRDS is
installed takes about 0.5 work-hour for
an estimated cost of $43 per helicopter
and $59,985 for the U.S. fleet.
Inspecting the bond line and
performing a proof load test takes about
1.5 work-hours for an estimated cost of
$128 per helicopter per inspection
cycle.
Replacing an affected TRDS assembly
takes about 12 work-hours and parts
cost up to $32,708 for an estimated cost
of up to $33,728 per helicopter.
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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.
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Regulatory Findings
This AD will not have federalism
implications under Executive Order
13132. This AD will not have a
substantial direct effect on the States, on
the relationship between the national
government and the States, or on the
distribution of power and
responsibilities among the various
levels of government.
For the reasons discussed above, I
certify that this AD:
(1) Is not a ‘‘significant regulatory
action’’ under Executive Order 12866,
(2) Will not affect intrastate aviation
in Alaska, and
(3) Will not have a significant
economic impact, positive or negative,
on a substantial number of small entities
under the criteria of the Regulatory
Flexibility Act.
List of Subjects in 14 CFR Part 39
Air transportation, Aircraft, Aviation
safety, Incorporation by reference,
Safety.
The Amendment
Accordingly, under the authority
delegated to me by the Administrator,
the FAA amends 14 CFR part 39 as
follows:
PART 39—AIRWORTHINESS
DIRECTIVES
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:
■
2023–06–05 Bell Textron Canada Limited:
Amendment 39–22391; Docket No.
FAA–2022–1488; Project Identifier
MCAI–2022–00788–R.
(a) Effective Date
This airworthiness directive (AD) is
effective May 19, 2023.
(b) Affected ADs
None.
(c) Applicability
This AD applies to Bell Textron Canada
Limited Model 206A, 206A–1 (OH–58A),
206B, 206B–1, 206L, 206L–1, 206L–3, and
206L–4 helicopters, all serial numbers,
certificated in any category.
(d) Subject
Joint Aircraft Service Component (JASC)
Code: 6510, Tail Rotor Drive Shaft.
(e) Unsafe Condition
This AD was prompted by a loss of tail
rotor (TR) drive due to a failure of an
adhesively bonded joint between an adapter
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and a tube on one of the segmented TR drive
shaft (TRDS) assemblies. The FAA is issuing
this AD to detect degradation of the adhesive
bond of the TRDS assembly. The unsafe
condition, if not addressed, could result in
loss of TR drive 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 paragraphs (h) and
(i) of this AD: Comply with all required
actions and compliance times specified in,
and in accordance with, Transport Canada
AD CF–2022–33, dated June 15, 2022
(Transport Canada AD CF–2022–33).
(h) Exceptions To Transport Canada AD CF–
2022–33
(1) Where Transport Canada AD CF–2022–
33 requires compliance in terms of air time,
this AD requires using hours time-in-service
(TIS).
(2) Where Transport Canada AD CF–2022–
33 refers to its effective date, this AD requires
using the effective date of this AD.
(3) Where Transport Canada AD CF–2022–
33 defines ‘‘Affected TRDS,’’ for this AD
replace each instance of the text ‘‘affected
TRDS,’’ with ‘‘a TRDS with a part number (P/
N) that is not one of the riveted TRDS P/Ns
listed in the accomplishment instructions of
Bell Alert Service Bulletin (ASB) 206–20–
139, Revision A, dated August 21, 2020 (ASB
206–20–139 Rev A) or Bell ASB 206L–20–
184, Revision C, dated January 14, 2021 (ASB
206L–20–184 Rev C) as applicable to your
model helicopter.’’
(4) Where Transport Canada AD CF–2022–
33 defines ‘‘Serviceable part,’’ for this AD
replace each instance of the text ‘‘serviceable
part,’’ with ‘‘a riveted TRDS with a P/N that
is listed in the accomplishment instructions
of ASB 206–20–139 Rev A or ASB 206L–20–
184 Rev C as applicable to your model
helicopter; or an affected TRDS that has been
inspected and proof load tested in
accordance with the requirements of this AD
within the past 300 hours TIS or within the
last 12 months, whichever occurs first.’’
(5) Where the service information
referenced in Transport Canada AD CF–
2022–33 specifies scrapping or discarding a
part, this AD requires removing that part
from service.
(6) Where the service information
referenced in Transport Canada AD CF–
2022–33 specifies in the event of a bond line
failure, recording the torque value at which
it failed, the affected shaft position, part
number, serial number, and which end
failed, and notifying Bell Product Support
Engineering of the findings, this AD does not
require recording any discrepancies or
reporting any information to Bell Product
Support Engineering.
(i) No Reporting Requirement
Although the service information
referenced in Transport Canada AD CF–
2022–33 specifies to submit certain
information to the manufacturer, this AD
does not include that requirement.
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Federal Register / Vol. 88, No. 72 / Friday, April 14, 2023 / Rules and Regulations
(j) Special Flight Permit
Special flight permits are prohibited.
DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION
(k) Alternative Methods of Compliance
(AMOCs)
(1) The Manager, International Validation
Branch, FAA, has the authority to approve
AMOCs for this AD, if requested using the
procedures found in 14 CFR 39.19. In
accordance with 14 CFR 39.19, send your
request to your principal inspector or local
Flight Standards District Office, as
appropriate. If sending information directly
to the manager of the International Validation
Branch, send it to the attention of the person
identified in paragraph (l) of this AD.
Information may be emailed to: 9-AVS-AIR730-AMOC@faa.gov.
(2) Before using any approved AMOC,
notify your appropriate principal inspector,
or lacking a principal inspector, the manager
of the local flight standards district office/
certificate holding district office.
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(l) Related Information
For more information about this AD,
contact 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.
(m) Material Incorporated by Reference
(1) The Director of the Federal Register
approved the incorporation by reference of
the service information listed in this
paragraph under 5 U.S.C. 552(a) and 1 CFR
part 51.
(2) You must use this service information
as applicable to do the actions required by
this AD, unless this AD specifies otherwise.
(i) Transport Canada AD CF–2022–33,
dated June 15, 2022.
(ii) [Reserved]
(3) For Transport Canada service
information identified in this AD, 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.
(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 March 16, 2023.
Christina Underwood,
Acting Director, Compliance & Airworthiness
Division, Aircraft Certification Service.
[FR Doc. 2023–07779 Filed 4–13–23; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE 4910–13–P
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Federal Aviation Administration
14 CFR Part 39
[Docket No. FAA–2022–1404; Project
Identifier MCAI–2022–01044–A; Amendment
39–22410; AD 2023–07–08]
RIN 2120–AA64
Airworthiness Directives; Pilatus
Aircraft Ltd. Airplanes
Federal Aviation
Administration (FAA), DOT.
ACTION: Final rule.
AGENCY:
The FAA is adopting a new
airworthiness directive (AD) for certain
Pilatus Aircraft Ltd. (Pilatus) Model PC–
12/47E airplanes. This AD was
prompted by mandatory continuing
airworthiness information (MCAI)
originated by an aviation authority of
another country to identify and correct
an unsafe condition on an aviation
product. The MCAI identifies the unsafe
condition as corrosion of the actuator
attachment lug areas underneath the
anti-rotation pads of the main landing
gear (MLG) and nose landing gear
(NLG). This AD requires replacing
certain MLG and NLG electromechanical actuators. The FAA is
issuing this AD to address the unsafe
condition on these products.
DATES: This AD is effective May 19,
2023.
SUMMARY:
ADDRESSES:
AD Docket: You may examine the AD
docket at regulations.gov under Docket
No.FAA–2022–1404; or in person at
Docket Operations between 9 a.m. and
5 p.m., Monday through Friday, except
Federal holidays. The AD docket
contains this final rule, the MCAI, any
comments received, and other
information. The address for Docket
Operations is U.S. Department of
Transportation, Docket Operations, M–
30, West Building Ground Floor, Room
W12–140, 1200 New Jersey Avenue SE,
Washington, DC 20590.
FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT:
Doug Rudolph, Aviation Safety
Engineer, FAA, General Aviation &
Rotorcraft Section, International
Validation Branch, 901 Locust, Room
301, Kansas City, MO 64106; phone:
(816) 329–4059; email: doug.rudolph@
faa.gov.
SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION:
Background
The FAA issued a notice of proposed
rulemaking (NPRM) to amend 14 CFR
part 39 by adding an AD that would
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22903
apply to certain serial-numbered Pilatus
Model PC–12/47E airplanes. The NPRM
published in the Federal Register on
November 7, 2022 (87 FR 66971). The
NPRM was prompted by EASA AD
2022–0158, dated August 4, 2022 (EASA
AD 2022–0158) (referred to after this as
‘‘the MCAI’’), issued by the European
Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA),
which is the Technical Agent for the
Member States of the European Union.
The MCAI was prompted by
occurrences of corrosion on the MLG
and NLG actuator attachment lugs,
underneath the anti-rotation pads of
Pilatus Model PC–12/47E airplanes. The
MCAI states that investigations revealed
that extending or retracting the affected
landing gear results in fretting between
the anti-rotation pads and the actuator
attachment lugs. This decreases the
effectivity of surface protection, allows
corrosion to develop on the attachment
lug areas underneath the anti-rotation
pads, and leads to cracking and failure
of the attachment lugs.
This condition, if not addressed,
could result in loss of functionality of
the MLG and NLG, which could result
in damage to the airplane and injury to
the occupants. The MCAI requires
inspecting, and if required, replacing
affected MLG and NLG electromechanical actuators with serviceable
actuators and prohibits the installation
of an affected actuator unless it has been
reworked to become a serviceable
actuator.
Since issuance of the NPRM, EASA
superseded EASA AD 2022–0158 with
EASA AD 2022–0245, dated December
12, 2022 (EASA AD 2022–0245). EASA
AD 2022–0245 retains the requirements
of EASA AD 2022–0158 and references
revised service information.
In the NPRM, the FAA proposed to
require replacing affected MLG and NLG
actuators with serviceable actuators and
prohibit the installation of an affected
actuator unless it has been reworked
(inspection and modification) to become
a serviceable actuator. The FAA is
issuing this AD to address the unsafe
condition on these products.
You may examine the MCAI in the
AD docket at regulations.gov under
Docket No. FAA–2022–1404.
Discussion of Final Airworthiness
Directive
Comments
The FAA received a comment from
the Air Line Pilots Association,
International (ALPA), who supported
the NPRM without change.
The FAA received additional
comments from Pilatus. The following
presents the comments received on the
NPRM and the FAA’s response.
E:\FR\FM\14APR1.SGM
14APR1
]]>Agencies
[Federal Register Volume 88, Number 72 (Friday, April 14, 2023)]
[Rules and Regulations]
[Pages 22900-22903]
From the Federal Register Online via the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]
[FR Doc No: 2023-07779]
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DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION
Federal Aviation Administration
14 CFR Part 39
[Docket No. FAA-2022-1488; Project Identifier MCAI-2022-00788-R;
Amendment 39-22391; AD 2023-06-05]
RIN 2120-AA64
Airworthiness Directives; Bell Textron Canada Limited Helicopters
AGENCY: Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), DOT.
ACTION: Final rule.
-----------------------------------------------------------------------
SUMMARY: The FAA is adopting a new airworthiness directive (AD) for all
Bell Textron Canada Limited Model 206A, 206A-1 (OH-58A), 206B, 206B-1,
206L, 206L-1, 206L-3, and 206L-4 helicopters. This AD was prompted by a
loss of tail rotor (TR) drive due to a failure of an adhesively bonded
joint between an adapter and a tube on one of the segmented TR drive
shaft (TRDS) assemblies. This AD requires determining if an affected
TRDS is installed; repetitively inspecting the bond line for damage;
repetitively performing a proof load test of the TRDS assembly; and
depending on the results of the inspections or the proof load tests,
removing an affected TRDS from service and replacing it with a
serviceable TRDS. This AD also prohibits installing a TRDS unless it
meets certain requirements, 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 is effective May 19, 2023.
The Director of the Federal Register approved the incorporation by
reference of a certain publication listed in this AD as of May 19,
2023.
ADDRESSES:
AD Docket: You may examine the AD docket at regulations.gov under
Docket No. FAA-2022-1488; or in person at Docket Operations between 9
a.m. and 5 p.m., Monday through Friday, except Federal holidays. The AD
docket contains this final rule, any comments received, and other
information. The address for Docket Operations is U.S. Department of
Transportation, Docket
[[Page 22901]]
Operations, M-30, West Building Ground Floor, Room W12-140, 1200 New
Jersey Avenue SE, Washington, DC 20590.
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 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-2022-1488.
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. This service information is also available 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-2022-33, dated June 15, 2022 (Transport
Canada AD CF-2022-33), to correct an unsafe condition for Bell Textron
Canada Limited Model 206A, 206A-1, 206B, 206B-1, 206L, 206L-1, 206L-3
and 206L-4 helicopters, all serial numbers.
The FAA issued a notice of proposed rulemaking (NPRM) to amend 14
CFR part 39 by adding an AD that would apply to Bell Textron Canada
Limited Model 206A, 206A-1 (OH-58A), 206B, 206B-1, 206L, 206L-1, 206L-
3, and 206L-4 helicopters, all serial numbers.
The NPRM published in the Federal Register on November 28, 2022 (87
FR 72899). The NPRM was prompted by a report in which a Bell Textron
Canada Limited Model 206L-1 helicopter experienced loss of TR drive
during a maintenance test flight, which was due to a failure of an
adhesively bonded joint between an adapter and a tube on one of the
segmented TRDS assemblies. The NPRM proposed to require determining if
an affected TRDS is installed; repetitively inspecting the bond line
for damage; repetitively performing a proof load test of the TRDS
assembly; and depending on the results of the inspections or the proof
load tests, removing an affected TRDS from service and replacing it
with a serviceable TRDS. The NPRM also proposed to prohibit installing
a TRDS unless it meets certain requirements, as specified in Transport
Canada AD CF-2022-33.
Discussion of Final Airworthiness Directive
Comments
The FAA received comments from one individual commenter. The
following presents the comments received on the NPRM and the FAA's
response to each comment.
Request To Not Incorporate the Transport Canada AD by Reference
One individual requested that the FAA not reference Transport
Canada AD CF-2022-33 in the FAA AD. The commenter stated Transport
Canada AD CF-2022-33 either repeats the instructions found in the alert
service bulletin (ASB) or directs the reader to the ASB. Additionally,
the commenter stated referencing Transport Canada ADs is a new practice
and the Transport Canada ADs should only be referenced if they make a
substantial addition to the ASB requirements.
The FAA disagrees with both the request to not require compliance
with Transport Canada AD CF-2022-33 in the FAA AD and the request to
discontinue the method of requiring compliance with some foreign ADs
issued by the foreign state of design authority. 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 ADs as the primary
source of information for compliance with requirements for
corresponding FAA ADs. FAA ADs that require compliance with foreign ADs
have been utilized since 2018 for some products and since 2022 for Bell
Textron Canada Limited helicopters. Referring to Transport Canada AD
CF-2022-33 minimizes the need for Alternative Methods of Compliance.
Conclusion
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 reviewed the relevant data, considered the
comments received, and determined that air safety requires adopting
this AD as proposed. Accordingly, the FAA is issuing this AD to address
the unsafe condition on these helicopters. This AD is adopted as
proposed in the NPRM.
Related Service Information Under 1 CFR Part 51
Transport Canada AD CF-2022-33 requires determining if a helicopter
has an affected TRDS installed. If there is an affected TRDS installed,
Transport Canada AD CF-2022-33 requires performing a repetitive
detailed inspection of the bond line of the inboard end of the flange
and, if there is damage, replacing the affected TRDS with a serviceable
TRDS. Transport Canada AD CF-2022-33 also requires performing a
repetitive proof load test of the TRDS assembly and replacing any TRDS
that fails the proof load test. Transport Canada AD CF-2022-33 also
prohibits installing a TRDS unless certain requirements are met.
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 ASB 206-20-139, Revision A, dated August
21, 2020 for Model 206A, 206B, and TH-67 helicopters, and Bell ASB
206L-20-184, Revision C, dated January 14, 2021 for Model 206L, 206L-1,
206L-3, and 206L-4 helicopters. This service information specifies
procedures for repetitive detailed visual inspections and proof load
tests of installed bonded TRDSs, and replacement of an affected bonded
TRDS that fails a visual inspection or proof load test with a
serviceable segmented bonded TRDS or a riveted TRDS. This service
information also specifies that replacing all the bonded TRDS
assemblies with riveted TRDS assemblies is a terminating action for the
repetitive visual inspections and proof load tests.
The FAA reviewed Bell Helicopter Technical Bulletin (TB) No. 206-
06-186, Revision B, dated September 7, 2007, and Bell Helicopter
Textron TB No. 206L-02-207, Revision A, dated
[[Page 22902]]
January 22, 2003, which both specify procedures for installing a
riveted TRDS and rotor break disc; inspecting the aft short shaft and
driveshaft assemblies; and stripping and painting the aft short shaft
and driveshaft assemblies.
Differences Between This AD, the Transport Canada AD, and the Service
Information
Where the service information referenced in Transport Canada AD CF-
2022-33 specifies recording certain information in the event of a bond
line failure and notifying Bell Product Support Engineering of the
findings, this AD does not require recording any information or
reporting any information to Bell Product Support Engineering.
Costs of Compliance
The FAA estimates that this AD affects 1,395 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.
Determining if an affected TRDS is installed takes about 0.5 work-
hour for an estimated cost of $43 per helicopter and $59,985 for the
U.S. fleet.
Inspecting the bond line and performing a proof load test takes
about 1.5 work-hours for an estimated cost of $128 per helicopter per
inspection cycle.
Replacing an affected TRDS assembly takes about 12 work-hours and
parts cost up to $32,708 for an estimated cost of up to $33,728 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 that
authority because it addresses an unsafe condition that is likely to
exist or develop on products identified in this rulemaking action.
Regulatory Findings
This AD will not have federalism implications under Executive Order
13132. This AD will not have a substantial direct effect on the States,
on the relationship between the national government and the States, or
on the distribution of power and responsibilities among the various
levels of government.
For the reasons discussed above, I certify that this AD:
(1) Is not a ``significant regulatory action'' under Executive
Order 12866,
(2) Will not affect intrastate aviation in Alaska, and
(3) Will not have a significant economic impact, positive or
negative, on a substantial number of small entities under the criteria
of the Regulatory Flexibility Act.
List of Subjects in 14 CFR Part 39
Air transportation, Aircraft, Aviation safety, Incorporation by
reference, Safety.
The Amendment
Accordingly, under the authority delegated to me by the
Administrator, the FAA amends 14 CFR part 39 as follows:
PART 39--AIRWORTHINESS DIRECTIVES
0
1. The authority citation for part 39 continues to read as follows:
Authority: 49 U.S.C. 106(g), 40113, 44701.
Sec. 39.13 [Amended]
0
2. The FAA amends Sec. 39.13 by adding the following new airworthiness
directive:
2023-06-05 Bell Textron Canada Limited: Amendment 39-22391; Docket
No. FAA-2022-1488; Project Identifier MCAI-2022-00788-R.
(a) Effective Date
This airworthiness directive (AD) is effective May 19, 2023.
(b) Affected ADs
None.
(c) Applicability
This AD applies to Bell Textron Canada Limited Model 206A, 206A-
1 (OH-58A), 206B, 206B-1, 206L, 206L-1, 206L-3, and 206L-4
helicopters, all serial numbers, certificated in any category.
(d) Subject
Joint Aircraft Service Component (JASC) Code: 6510, Tail Rotor
Drive Shaft.
(e) Unsafe Condition
This AD was prompted by a loss of tail rotor (TR) drive due to a
failure of an adhesively bonded joint between an adapter and a tube
on one of the segmented TR drive shaft (TRDS) assemblies. The FAA is
issuing this AD to detect degradation of the adhesive bond of the
TRDS assembly. The unsafe condition, if not addressed, could result
in loss of TR drive 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 paragraphs (h) and (i) of this AD: Comply
with all required actions and compliance times specified in, and in
accordance with, Transport Canada AD CF-2022-33, dated June 15, 2022
(Transport Canada AD CF-2022-33).
(h) Exceptions To Transport Canada AD CF-2022-33
(1) Where Transport Canada AD CF-2022-33 requires compliance in
terms of air time, this AD requires using hours time-in-service
(TIS).
(2) Where Transport Canada AD CF-2022-33 refers to its effective
date, this AD requires using the effective date of this AD.
(3) Where Transport Canada AD CF-2022-33 defines ``Affected
TRDS,'' for this AD replace each instance of the text ``affected
TRDS,'' with ``a TRDS with a part number (P/N) that is not one of
the riveted TRDS P/Ns listed in the accomplishment instructions of
Bell Alert Service Bulletin (ASB) 206-20-139, Revision A, dated
August 21, 2020 (ASB 206-20-139 Rev A) or Bell ASB 206L-20-184,
Revision C, dated January 14, 2021 (ASB 206L-20-184 Rev C) as
applicable to your model helicopter.''
(4) Where Transport Canada AD CF-2022-33 defines ``Serviceable
part,'' for this AD replace each instance of the text ``serviceable
part,'' with ``a riveted TRDS with a P/N that is listed in the
accomplishment instructions of ASB 206-20-139 Rev A or ASB 206L-20-
184 Rev C as applicable to your model helicopter; or an affected
TRDS that has been inspected and proof load tested in accordance
with the requirements of this AD within the past 300 hours TIS or
within the last 12 months, whichever occurs first.''
(5) Where the service information referenced in Transport Canada
AD CF-2022-33 specifies scrapping or discarding a part, this AD
requires removing that part from service.
(6) Where the service information referenced in Transport Canada
AD CF-2022-33 specifies in the event of a bond line failure,
recording the torque value at which it failed, the affected shaft
position, part number, serial number, and which end failed, and
notifying Bell Product Support Engineering of the findings, this AD
does not require recording any discrepancies or reporting any
information to Bell Product Support Engineering.
(i) No Reporting Requirement
Although the service information referenced in Transport Canada
AD CF-2022-33 specifies to submit certain information to the
manufacturer, this AD does not include that requirement.
[[Page 22903]]
(j) Special Flight Permit
Special flight permits are prohibited.
(k) Alternative Methods of Compliance (AMOCs)
(1) The Manager, International Validation Branch, FAA, has the
authority to approve AMOCs for this AD, if requested using the
procedures found in 14 CFR 39.19. In accordance with 14 CFR 39.19,
send your request to your principal inspector or local Flight
Standards District Office, as appropriate. If sending information
directly to the manager of the International Validation Branch, send
it to the attention of the person identified in paragraph (l) of
this AD. Information may be emailed to: [email protected].
(2) Before using any approved AMOC, notify your appropriate
principal inspector, or lacking a principal inspector, the manager
of the local flight standards district office/certificate holding
district office.
(l) 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].
(m) Material Incorporated by Reference
(1) The Director of the Federal Register approved the
incorporation by reference of the service information listed in this
paragraph under 5 U.S.C. 552(a) and 1 CFR part 51.
(2) You must use this service information as applicable to do
the actions required by this AD, unless this AD specifies otherwise.
(i) Transport Canada AD CF-2022-33, dated June 15, 2022.
(ii) [Reserved]
(3) For Transport Canada service information identified in this
AD, 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.
(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 March 16, 2023.
Christina Underwood,
Acting Director, Compliance & Airworthiness Division, Aircraft
Certification Service.
[FR Doc. 2023-07779 Filed 4-13-23; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE 4910-13-P
