Airworthiness Directives; Airbus Helicopters, 47351-47354 [2023-15714]

Download as PDF 47351 Rules and Regulations Federal Register Vol. 88, No. 140 Monday, July 24, 2023 This section of the FEDERAL REGISTER contains regulatory documents having general applicability and legal effect, most of which are keyed to and codified in the Code of Federal Regulations, which is published under 50 titles pursuant to 44 U.S.C. 1510. The Code of Federal Regulations is sold by the Superintendent of Documents. DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION Federal Aviation Administration 14 CFR Part 39 [Docket No. FAA–2023–1506; Project Identifier MCAI–2023–00784–R; Amendment 39–22512; AD 2023–13–51] RIN 2120–AA64 Airworthiness Directives; Airbus Helicopters Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), DOT. ACTION: Final rule; request for comments. AGENCY: The FAA is superseding Airworthiness Directive (AD) 2022–19– 08 which applied to all Airbus Helicopters Model SA341G and SA342J helicopters. AD 2022–19–08 was prompted by a report of manufacturing defects on multiple tail rotor blades (TRBs) and required visually inspecting certain part-numbered TRBs for the presence of a linear indication, and, depending on the inspection results, fluorescent penetrant inspecting the TRB and further corrective actions if necessary. AD 2022–19–08 also prohibited installing an affected TRB unless certain requirements had been met. This AD was prompted by the determination that parts that have accumulated more than 500 flight hours (FH) since new are also affected by the unsafe condition. In addition, the defined compliance time for the visual inspection of the root area of each affected part was determined to be too strict. This AD retains certain requirements of AD 2022–19–08, includes all TRBs in the inspection requirements, and increases a compliance time as specified in a European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) AD, which is incorporated by reference. The FAA previously sent this AD as an emergency AD to all known U.S. owners and operators of these helicopters. The FAA is issuing this AD lotter on DSK11XQN23PROD with RULES1 SUMMARY: VerDate Sep<11>2014 15:56 Jul 21, 2023 Jkt 259001 to address the unsafe condition on these products. DATES: This AD is effective August 8, 2023. Emergency AD 2023–13–51, issued on June 27, 2023, which contained the requirements of this amendment, was effective with actual notice. The Director of the Federal Register approved the incorporation by reference of a certain publication listed in this AD as of August 8, 2023. The FAA must receive comments on this AD by September 7, 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. Material Incorporated by Reference: • For EASA material incorporated by reference in this final rule, contact EASA, Konrad-Adenauer-Ufer 3, 50668 Cologne, Germany; telephone +49 221 8999 000; email ADs@easa.europa.eu; internet easa.europa.eu. You may find the EASA material on the EASA website at ad.easa.europa.eu. • You may view this material at the FAA, Office of the Regional Counsel, Southwest Region, 10101 Hillwood Pkwy., Room 6N–321, Fort Worth, TX 76177. For information on the availability of this material at the FAA, call (817) 222–5110. Service information that is incorporated by reference is also available in the AD docket at regulations.gov under Docket No. FAA– 2023–1506. Other Related Service Information: For Airbus Helicopters service information identified in this final rule, contact Airbus Helicopters, 2701 North Forum Drive, Grand Prairie, TX 75052; telephone (972) 641–0000 or (800) 232– 0323; fax (972) 641–3775; or at airbus.com/helicopters/services/ technical-support.html. You may also view this service information at the FAA contact information under Material Incorporated by Reference above. PO 00000 Frm 00001 Fmt 4700 Sfmt 4700 Examining the AD Docket You may examine the AD docket at regulations.gov under Docket No. FAA– 2023–1506; 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 EASA AD, any comments received, and other information. The street address for Docket Operations is listed above. Comments will be available in the AD docket shortly after receipt. FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Dan McCully, Aviation Safety Engineer, FAA, 1600 Stewart Avenue, Suite 410, Westbury, NY 11590; telephone (404) 474–5548; email william.mccully@ faa.gov. SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: Comments Invited The FAA invites you to send any written data, views, or arguments about this final rule. Send your comments to an address listed under ADDRESSES. Include ‘‘Docket No. FAA–2023–1506; Project Identifier MCAI–2023–00784–R’’ at the beginning of your comments. The most helpful comments reference a specific portion of the final rule, explain the reason for any recommended change, and include supporting data. The FAA will consider all comments received by the closing date and may amend this final rule because of those comments. Except for Confidential Business Information (CBI) as described in the following paragraph, and other information as described in 14 CFR 11.35, the FAA will post all comments received, without change, to regulations.gov, including any personal information you provide. The agency will also post a report summarizing each substantive verbal contact received about this final rule. Confidential Business Information CBI is commercial or financial information that is both customarily and actually treated as private by its owner. Under the Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) (5 U.S.C. 552), CBI is exempt from public disclosure. If your comments responsive to this AD contain commercial or financial information that is customarily treated as private, that you actually treat as private, and that is relevant or responsive to this AD, it is important that you clearly designate E:\FR\FM\24JYR1.SGM 24JYR1 47352 Federal Register / Vol. 88, No. 140 / Monday, July 24, 2023 / Rules and Regulations the submitted comments as CBI. Please mark each page of your submission containing CBI as ‘‘PROPIN.’’ The FAA will treat such marked submissions as confidential under the FOIA, and they will not be placed in the public docket of this AD. Submissions containing CBI should be sent to Dan McCully, Aviation Safety Engineer, FAA, 1600 Stewart Avenue, Suite 410, Westbury, NY 11590; telephone (404) 474–5548; email william.mccully@faa.gov. Any commentary that the FAA receives that is not specifically designated as CBI will be placed in the public docket for this rulemaking. lotter on DSK11XQN23PROD with RULES1 Background The FAA issued AD 2022–19–08, Amendment 39–22177 (87 FR 56865, September 16, 2022) (AD 2022–19–08), for Airbus Helicopters Model SA341G and SA342J helicopters. AD 2022–19–08 was prompted by a report of manufacturing defects on TRBs. AD 2022–19–08 required visually inspecting certain part-numbered TRBs for the presence of a linear indication; and depending on the inspection results, fluorescent penetrant inspecting the TRB and further corrective actions if necessary. AD 2022–19–08 also prohibited installing an affected TRB unless certain requirements had been met, as specified in EASA Emergency AD 2022–0169–E, dated August 12, 2022 (EASA AD 2022–0169–E). The FAA issued AD 2022–19–08 to detect linear indications on a TRB which could result in an in-flight TRB loss, unbalance or damage to the tail or other parts of the helicopter, and subsequent loss of control of the helicopter. EASA, which is the Technical Agent for the Member States of the European Union, issued EASA AD 2022–0169–E to correct an unsafe condition for Airbus Helicopters Model SA 341 G and SA 342 J (Gazelle) helicopters, all serial numbers. EASA advised that an additional sample of TRBs from different manufacturing batches were visually inspected and further analysis revealed visual linear indications on approximately 75% of the TRBs inspected. EASA further advised that the visual linear indications were positioned at the aerofoil connection radius and perpendicular to the grain flow direction. EASA advised that follow-up dye penetrant inspections confirmed up to 20% of the TRBs were found to be affected and have a high risk for crack propagation. Additionally, EASA advised that the investigation of the root cause of the unsafe condition was still on-going; therefore EASA considered EASA AD 2022–0169–E an VerDate Sep<11>2014 15:56 Jul 21, 2023 Jkt 259001 immediate protective measure and stated that further action may follow. Actions Since AD 2022–19–08 Was Issued Since the FAA issued AD 2022–19– 08, EASA superseded EASA AD 2022– 0169–E with EASA Emergency AD 2023–0128–E, dated June 26, 2023 (EASA AD 2023–0128–E). EASA advises that after EASA AD 2022–0169–E was issued, it was determined that affected parts that have accumulated more than 500 FH since new are also affected. In addition, the defined compliance time for the visual inspection of the root area of each affected part was determined to be too strict. Consequently, Airbus Helicopters revised its service information accordingly. Superseding EASA AD 2023–0128–E retains most of the requirements of EASA AD 2022– 0169–E, adds an inspection of affected parts that accumulated more than 500 FH since new, and amends the compliance time for the visual inspection of affected parts. Additionally, EASA advises that EASA AD 2023–0128–E is (still) considered an interim measure and that further AD action may follow. See EASA AD 2023– 0128–E for additional background information. Related Service Information Under 1 CFR Part 51 EASA AD 2023–0128–E requires, before any cleaning of the TRB, using a lamp (1000 lux) to visually inspect the root area of each affected TRB for the presence of any linear indication; and cleaning certain areas of each TRB and repeating the visual inspection of the TRB for a linear indication. Depending on the inspection results, EASA AD 2023–0128–E requires performing a dye penetrant inspection of the root area of a TRB, and if a linear indication is detected, replacing the affected TRB with a serviceable part. Finally, EASA AD 2023–0128–E prohibits installing an affected TRB on any helicopter after its effective date. 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 reviewed Airbus Helicopters Emergency Alert Service Bulletin (EASB) No. SA341–65.71 for Model SA341G helicopters and non FAA-type certificated military Model SA341B, C, D, E, F, and H helicopters; and EASB No. SA342–65.71 for Model SA342J helicopters and non FAA-type certified military Model SA342K, L, L1, M, M1, PO 00000 Frm 00002 Fmt 4700 Sfmt 4700 and MA helicopters, each Revision 2 and dated June 19, 2023 (co-published as one document). This service information specifies procedures for visually checking the TRB for presence of a linear indication; cleaning the TRB with a lint free rag and solvent and repeating the visual check; performing a fluorescent penetrant inspection if a linear indication is detected; removing and replacing any affected TRB if necessary; and recording compliance with the service information. FAA’s Determination These helicopters been approved by EASA and are approved for operation in the United States. Pursuant to the FAA’s bilateral agreement with the European Union, EASA, its technical representative, has notified the FAA of the unsafe condition described in its emergency AD. The FAA is issuing this AD after evaluating all pertinent information and determining that the unsafe condition exists and is likely to exist or develop on other helicopters of the same type design. AD Requirements This AD requires accomplishing the actions specified in EASA AD 2023– 0128–E, described previously, which is incorporated by reference, except for any differences identified as exceptions in the regulatory text of this AD and except as discussed under ‘‘Differences Between this AD and EASA AD 2023– 0128–E.’’ Explanation of Required Compliance Information In the FAA’s ongoing efforts to improve the efficiency of the AD process, the FAA developed a process to use some civil aviation authority (CAA) ADs as the primary source of information for compliance with requirements for corresponding FAA ADs. The FAA has been coordinating this process with manufacturers and CAAs. As a result, EASA AD 2023– 0128–E is incorporated by reference in this FAA final rule. This AD, therefore, requires compliance with EASA AD 2023–0128–E in its entirety through that incorporation, except for any differences identified as exceptions in the regulatory text of this AD. Using common terms that are the same as the heading of a particular section in EASA AD 2023–0128–E does not mean that operators need comply only with that section. For example, where the AD requirement refers to ‘‘all required actions and compliance times,’’ compliance with this AD requirement is not limited to the section titled ‘‘Required Action(s) and Compliance E:\FR\FM\24JYR1.SGM 24JYR1 Federal Register / Vol. 88, No. 140 / Monday, July 24, 2023 / Rules and Regulations Time(s)’’ in EASA AD EASA AD 2023– 0128–E. Service information referenced in EASA AD 2023–0128–E for compliance will be available at regulations.gov under Docket No. FAA– 2023–1506. Differences Between This AD and EASA AD 2023–0128–E Although EASA AD 2023–0128–E does not define the phrase ‘‘a linear indication,’’ service information referenced in EASA AD 2023–0128–E defines this phrase as an indication for which the longest dimension is at least three times longer than the smallest one. This AD defines a linear indication as any linear indication perpendicular to the grain direction of the blade that is detected regardless of size. Where EASA AD 2023–0128–E requires performing a dye penetrant inspection, this AD requires a fluorescent penetrant inspection performed by a Level II or Level III inspector certified in the FAAacceptable standards for nondestructive inspection personnel. lotter on DSK11XQN23PROD with RULES1 Interim Action The FAA considers this AD to be interim action. Justification for Immediate Adoption and Determination of the Effective Date Section 553(b)(3)(B) of the Administrative Procedure Act (APA) (5 U.S.C. 551 et seq.) authorizes agencies to dispense with notice and comment procedures for rules when the agency, for ‘‘good cause,’’ finds that those procedures are ‘‘impracticable, unnecessary, or contrary to the public interest.’’ Under this section, an agency, upon finding good cause, may issue a final rule without providing notice and seeking comment prior to issuance. Further, section 553(d) of the APA authorizes agencies to make rules effective in less than thirty days, upon a finding of good cause. An unsafe condition exists that required the immediate adoption of Emergency AD 2023–13–51, issued on June 27, 2023, to all known U.S. owners and operators of these helicopters. The FAA found that the risk to the flying public justified waiving notice and comment prior to adoption of this rule because the affected part is critical to the control of a helicopter. In addition, failure of an affected part can cause the part to depart from the helicopter, thereby causing damage to the helicopter and subsequent loss of control of the helicopter. Also, the FAA has no information pertaining to how quickly the condition may propagate to failure. Investigation is still on-going to determine the root cause of the defect VerDate Sep<11>2014 15:56 Jul 21, 2023 Jkt 259001 and the number of parts affected by the same condition. In light of this, the initial visual inspection must be accomplished within 10 hours time-inservice. These conditions still exist, therefore, notice and opportunity for prior public comment are impracticable and contrary to the public interest pursuant to 5 U.S.C. 553(b)(3)(B). In addition, the FAA finds that good cause exists pursuant to 5 U.S.C. 553(d) for making this amendment effective in less than 30 days, for the same reasons the FAA found good cause to forego notice and comment. Regulatory Flexibility Act The requirements of the Regulatory Flexibility Act (RFA) do not apply when an agency finds good cause pursuant to 5 U.S.C. 553 to adopt a rule without prior notice and comment. Because the FAA has determined that it has good cause to adopt this rule without prior notice and comment, RFA analysis is not required. Costs of Compliance The FAA estimates that this AD affects 22 helicopters of U.S. Registry. There may be up to 13 affected TRBs per helicopter. Labor rates are estimated at $85 per work-hour. Based on these numbers, the FAA estimates the following costs to comply with this AD. Visually inspecting one TRB for presence of a linear indication takes about 1 work-hour for an estimated cost of $85 per inspection. Visually inspecting each additional TRB takes about 0.1 work-hour for an estimated cost of $9 per inspection. The cost for inspecting each helicopter may be up to $193 and the cost for the U.S. fleet may be up to $4,246. If required, fluorescent penetrant inspecting a TRB for the presence of a linear indication takes about 2 workhours for an estimated cost of $170 per inspection. If required, removing an affected TRB and replacing it with a serviceable TRB takes about 2 work-hours and parts cost about $3,630 for an estimated cost of $3,800 per replacement. Removing each additional affected TRB and replacing it with a serviceable TRB takes about an additional 0.5 work-hour and parts cost about $3,630 for an estimated cost of $3,673 for each additional replacement. 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 PO 00000 Frm 00003 Fmt 4700 Sfmt 4700 47353 detail the scope of the Agency’s authority. The FAA is issuing this rulemaking under the authority described in Subtitle VII, Part A, Subpart III, Section 44701: General requirements. Under that section, Congress charges the FAA with promoting safe flight of civil aircraft in air commerce by prescribing regulations for practices, methods, and procedures the Administrator finds necessary for safety in air commerce. This regulation is within the scope of that authority because it addresses an unsafe condition that is likely to exist or develop on products identified in this rulemaking action. Regulatory Findings This AD will not have federalism implications under Executive Order 13132. This AD will not have a substantial direct effect on the States, on the relationship between the national Government and the States, or on the distribution of power and responsibilities among the various levels of government. For the reasons discussed, I certify that this AD: (1) Is not a ‘‘significant regulatory action’’ under Executive Order 12866, and (2) Will not affect intrastate aviation in Alaska. List of Subjects in 14 CFR Part 39 Air transportation, Aircraft, Aviation safety, Incorporation by reference, Safety. The Amendment Accordingly, under the authority delegated to me by the Administrator, the FAA amends 14 CFR part 39 as follows: PART 39—AIRWORTHINESS DIRECTIVES 1. The authority citation for part 39 continues to read as follows: ■ Authority: 49 U.S.C. 106(g), 40113, 44701. § 39.13 [Amended] 2. The FAA amends § 39.13 by: a. Removing Airworthiness Directive 2022–19–08, Amendment 39–22177 (87 FR 56865, September 16, 2022); and ■ b. Adding the following new airworthiness directive: ■ ■ 2023–13–51 Airbus Helicopters: Amendment 39–22512; Docket No. FAA–2023–1506; Project Identifier MCAI–2023–00784–R. (a) Effective Date The FAA issued emergency Airworthiness Directive (AD) 2023–13–51 on June 27, 2023 directly to affected owners and operators. As E:\FR\FM\24JYR1.SGM 24JYR1 47354 Federal Register / Vol. 88, No. 140 / Monday, July 24, 2023 / Rules and Regulations a result of such actual notice, the emergency AD was effective for those owners and operators on the date it was provided. This AD contains the same requirements as that emergency AD and, for those who did not receive actual notice, is effective on August 8, 2023. (b) Affected ADs This AD replaces AD 2022–19–08, Amendment 39–22177 (87 FR 56865, September 16, 2022) (AD 2022–19–08). (c) Applicability This AD applies to all Airbus Helicopters Model SA341G and SA342J helicopters, certificated in any category. (d) Subject Joint Aircraft System Component (JASC) Code: 6410, Tail Rotor Blades. (e) Unsafe Condition This AD was prompted by a report of manufacturing defects on multiple tail rotor blades (TRBs) and a subsequent determination that TRBs that have accumulated 500 or more hours time-inservice (TIS), and which were not included in AD 2022–19–08, are also affected by the unsafe condition and must perform the required corrective actions. The FAA is issuing this AD to detect linear indications on a TRB. The unsafe condition, if not addressed, could result in an in-flight TRB loss, unbalance or damage to the tail or other parts of the helicopter, and subsequent loss of control of the helicopter. (f) Compliance Comply with this AD within the compliance times specified, unless already done. lotter on DSK11XQN23PROD with RULES1 (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, European Union Aviation Safety Agency Emergency AD 2023– 0128–E, dated June 26, 2023 (EASA AD 2023–0128–E). (h) Exceptions to EASA AD 2023–0128–E (1) Where EASA AD 2023–0128–E requires compliance in terms of flight hours, this AD requires using hours TIS. (2) Where EASA AD 2023–0128–E refers to its effective date, this AD requires using the effective date of this AD. (3) Where EASA AD 2023–0128–E refers to the effective date of EASA AD 2022–0169–E (dated August 12, 2022), this AD requires using October 3, 2022 (the effective date of AD 2022–19–08). (4) Where paragraph (2) of EASA AD 2023– 0128–E states, ‘‘linear indication,’’ for the purposes of this AD, a linear indication is any linear indication perpendicular to the grain direction of the blade that is detected regardless of size. (5) Where paragraph (2) of EASA AD 2023– 0128–E states to ‘‘accomplish a dye penetrant inspection of the root area of that discrepant part in accordance with the instructions of the ASB,’’ for this AD replace that text with ‘‘perform a fluorescent penetrant inspection VerDate Sep<11>2014 15:56 Jul 21, 2023 Jkt 259001 (FPI) of the root area of each affected part that has any linear indication (perpendicular to the grain direction of the blade and regardless of size), in accordance with the Accomplishment Instructions, paragraph 3.B.3. of the ASB. This FPI must be accomplished by a Level II or Level III inspector certified in the FAA-acceptable standards for nondestructive inspection personnel.’’ Note 1 to paragraph (h)(5): Advisory Circular 65–31B contains examples of FAAacceptable Level II and Level III qualification standards criteria for inspection personnel doing nondestructive test inspections. (6) Where paragraph (3) of EASA AD 2023– 0128–E specifies to replace any affected part having a confirmed linear indication with a serviceable part; instead, for this AD, if as a result of the action required by paragraph (2) of EASA AD 2023–0128–E, there is any linear indication (perpendicular to the grain direction of the blade and regardless of size), before further flight, remove the affected TRB from service and replace it with a serviceable part as defined in EASA AD 2023–0128–E. (7) Where the service information referenced in EASA AD 2023–0128–E specifies to discard the TRB if a linear indication is detected, this AD requires, before further flight, removing that part from service. (8) Where the service information referenced in EASA AD 2023–0128–E specifies to use tooling, this AD allows the use of equivalent tooling. (9) This AD does not adopt the ‘‘Remarks’’ section of EASA AD 2023–0128–E. (i) No Reporting Requirement Although the service information referenced in EASA AD 2023–0128–E specifies to submit certain information to the manufacturer, this AD does not include that requirement. (j) Credit for Previous Actions This paragraph provides credit for actions required by paragraph (g) of this AD, if those actions were performed before the effective date of this AD using AD 2022–19–08. (k) Special Flight Permits A special flight permit may be issued in accordance with 14 CFR 21.197 and 21.199 to operate the helicopter to a location where the visual inspection or FPI can be performed, provided no passengers are onboard. Special flight permits are prohibited if a linear indication has been detected by an FPI or a visible crack has been detected on a TRB. (l) 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 (m) of this AD. PO 00000 Frm 00004 Fmt 4700 Sfmt 9990 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. (m) Related Information For more information about this AD, contact Dan McCully, Aviation Safety Engineer, FAA, 1600 Stewart Avenue, Suite 410, Westbury, NY 11590; telephone (404) 474–5548; email william.mccully@faa.gov. (n) Material Incorporated by Reference (1) The Director of the Federal Register approved the incorporation by reference of the service information listed in this paragraph under 5 U.S.C. 552(a) and 1 CFR part 51. (2) You must use this service information as applicable to do the actions required by this AD, unless this AD specifies otherwise. (i) European Union Aviation Safety Agency Emergency AD 2023–0128–E, dated June 26, 2023 (EASA AD 2023–0128–E). (ii) [Reserved] (3) For EASA AD 2023–0128–E, contact EASA, Konrad-Adenauer-Ufer 3, 50668 Cologne, Germany; telephone +49 221 8999 000; email ADs@easa.europa.eu; internet easa.europa.eu. You may find the EASA material on the EASA website at ad.easa.europa.eu. (4) You may view this service information at the FAA, Office of the Regional Counsel, Southwest Region, 10101 Hillwood Pkwy., Room 6N–321, Fort Worth, TX 76177. For information on the availability of this material at the FAA, call (817) 222–5110. This material may be found in the AD docket at regulations.gov under Docket No. FAA– 2023–1506. (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 July 18, 2023. Victor Wicklund, Deputy Director, Compliance & Airworthiness Division, Aircraft Certification Service. [FR Doc. 2023–15714 Filed 7–20–23; 4:15 pm] BILLING CODE 4910–13–P E:\FR\FM\24JYR1.SGM 24JYR1

Agencies

[Federal Register Volume 88, Number 140 (Monday, July 24, 2023)]
[Rules and Regulations]
[Pages 47351-47354]
From the Federal Register Online via the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]
[FR Doc No: 2023-15714]



========================================================================
Rules and Regulations
                                                Federal Register
________________________________________________________________________

This section of the FEDERAL REGISTER contains regulatory documents 
having general applicability and legal effect, most of which are keyed 
to and codified in the Code of Federal Regulations, which is published 
under 50 titles pursuant to 44 U.S.C. 1510.

The Code of Federal Regulations is sold by the Superintendent of Documents. 

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


Federal Register / Vol. 88, No. 140 / Monday, July 24, 2023 / Rules 
and Regulations

[[Page 47351]]



DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION

Federal Aviation Administration

14 CFR Part 39

[Docket No. FAA-2023-1506; Project Identifier MCAI-2023-00784-R; 
Amendment 39-22512; AD 2023-13-51]
RIN 2120-AA64


Airworthiness Directives; Airbus Helicopters

AGENCY: Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), DOT.

ACTION: Final rule; request for comments.

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

SUMMARY: The FAA is superseding Airworthiness Directive (AD) 2022-19-08 
which applied to all Airbus Helicopters Model SA341G and SA342J 
helicopters. AD 2022-19-08 was prompted by a report of manufacturing 
defects on multiple tail rotor blades (TRBs) and required visually 
inspecting certain part-numbered TRBs for the presence of a linear 
indication, and, depending on the inspection results, fluorescent 
penetrant inspecting the TRB and further corrective actions if 
necessary. AD 2022-19-08 also prohibited installing an affected TRB 
unless certain requirements had been met. This AD was prompted by the 
determination that parts that have accumulated more than 500 flight 
hours (FH) since new are also affected by the unsafe condition. In 
addition, the defined compliance time for the visual inspection of the 
root area of each affected part was determined to be too strict. This 
AD retains certain requirements of AD 2022-19-08, includes all TRBs in 
the inspection requirements, and increases a compliance time as 
specified in a European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) AD, which 
is incorporated by reference. The FAA previously sent this AD as an 
emergency AD to all known U.S. owners and operators of these 
helicopters. The FAA is issuing this AD to address the unsafe condition 
on these products.

DATES: This AD is effective August 8, 2023. Emergency AD 2023-13-51, 
issued on June 27, 2023, which contained the requirements of this 
amendment, was effective with actual notice.
    The Director of the Federal Register approved the incorporation by 
reference of a certain publication listed in this AD as of August 8, 
2023.
    The FAA must receive comments on this AD by September 7, 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.
    Material Incorporated by Reference:
     For EASA material incorporated by reference in this final 
rule, contact EASA, Konrad-Adenauer-Ufer 3, 50668 Cologne, Germany; 
telephone +49 221 8999 000; email [email protected]; internet 
easa.europa.eu. You may find the EASA material on the EASA website at 
ad.easa.europa.eu.
     You may view this material at the FAA, Office of the 
Regional Counsel, Southwest Region, 10101 Hillwood Pkwy., Room 6N-321, 
Fort Worth, TX 76177. For information on the availability of this 
material at the FAA, call (817) 222-5110. Service information that is 
incorporated by reference is also available in the AD docket at 
regulations.gov under Docket No. FAA-2023-1506.
    Other Related Service Information: For Airbus Helicopters service 
information identified in this final rule, contact Airbus Helicopters, 
2701 North Forum Drive, Grand Prairie, TX 75052; telephone (972) 641-
0000 or (800) 232-0323; fax (972) 641-3775; or at airbus.com/helicopters/services/technical-support.html. You may also view this 
service information at the FAA contact information under Material 
Incorporated by Reference above.

Examining the AD Docket

    You may examine the AD docket at regulations.gov under Docket No. 
FAA-2023-1506; 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 EASA AD, any comments received, and other 
information. The street address for Docket Operations is listed above. 
Comments will be available in the AD docket shortly after receipt.

FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Dan McCully, Aviation Safety Engineer, 
FAA, 1600 Stewart Avenue, Suite 410, Westbury, NY 11590; telephone 
(404) 474-5548; email [email protected].

SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: 

Comments Invited

    The FAA invites you to send any written data, views, or arguments 
about this final rule. Send your comments to an address listed under 
ADDRESSES. Include ``Docket No. FAA-2023-1506; Project Identifier MCAI-
2023-00784-R'' at the beginning of your comments. The most helpful 
comments reference a specific portion of the final rule, explain the 
reason for any recommended change, and include supporting data. The FAA 
will consider all comments received by the closing date and may amend 
this final rule because of those comments.
    Except for Confidential Business Information (CBI) as described in 
the following paragraph, and other information as described in 14 CFR 
11.35, the FAA will post all comments received, without change, to 
regulations.gov, including any personal information you provide. The 
agency will also post a report summarizing each substantive verbal 
contact received about this final rule.

Confidential Business Information

    CBI is commercial or financial information that is both customarily 
and actually treated as private by its owner. Under the Freedom of 
Information Act (FOIA) (5 U.S.C. 552), CBI is exempt from public 
disclosure. If your comments responsive to this AD contain commercial 
or financial information that is customarily treated as private, that 
you actually treat as private, and that is relevant or responsive to 
this AD, it is important that you clearly designate

[[Page 47352]]

the submitted comments as CBI. Please mark each page of your submission 
containing CBI as ``PROPIN.'' The FAA will treat such marked 
submissions as confidential under the FOIA, and they will not be placed 
in the public docket of this AD. Submissions containing CBI should be 
sent to Dan McCully, Aviation Safety Engineer, FAA, 1600 Stewart 
Avenue, Suite 410, Westbury, NY 11590; telephone (404) 474-5548; email 
[email protected]. Any commentary that the FAA receives that is 
not specifically designated as CBI will be placed in the public docket 
for this rulemaking.

Background

    The FAA issued AD 2022-19-08, Amendment 39-22177 (87 FR 56865, 
September 16, 2022) (AD 2022-19-08), for Airbus Helicopters Model 
SA341G and SA342J helicopters. AD 2022-19-08 was prompted by a report 
of manufacturing defects on TRBs. AD 2022-19-08 required visually 
inspecting certain part-numbered TRBs for the presence of a linear 
indication; and depending on the inspection results, fluorescent 
penetrant inspecting the TRB and further corrective actions if 
necessary. AD 2022-19-08 also prohibited installing an affected TRB 
unless certain requirements had been met, as specified in EASA 
Emergency AD 2022-0169-E, dated August 12, 2022 (EASA AD 2022-0169-E). 
The FAA issued AD 2022-19-08 to detect linear indications on a TRB 
which could result in an in-flight TRB loss, unbalance or damage to the 
tail or other parts of the helicopter, and subsequent loss of control 
of the helicopter.
    EASA, which is the Technical Agent for the Member States of the 
European Union, issued EASA AD 2022-0169-E to correct an unsafe 
condition for Airbus Helicopters Model SA 341 G and SA 342 J (Gazelle) 
helicopters, all serial numbers. EASA advised that an additional sample 
of TRBs from different manufacturing batches were visually inspected 
and further analysis revealed visual linear indications on 
approximately 75% of the TRBs inspected. EASA further advised that the 
visual linear indications were positioned at the aerofoil connection 
radius and perpendicular to the grain flow direction. EASA advised that 
follow-up dye penetrant inspections confirmed up to 20% of the TRBs 
were found to be affected and have a high risk for crack propagation. 
Additionally, EASA advised that the investigation of the root cause of 
the unsafe condition was still on-going; therefore EASA considered EASA 
AD 2022-0169-E an immediate protective measure and stated that further 
action may follow.

Actions Since AD 2022-19-08 Was Issued

    Since the FAA issued AD 2022-19-08, EASA superseded EASA AD 2022-
0169-E with EASA Emergency AD 2023-0128-E, dated June 26, 2023 (EASA AD 
2023-0128-E). EASA advises that after EASA AD 2022-0169-E was issued, 
it was determined that affected parts that have accumulated more than 
500 FH since new are also affected. In addition, the defined compliance 
time for the visual inspection of the root area of each affected part 
was determined to be too strict. Consequently, Airbus Helicopters 
revised its service information accordingly. Superseding EASA AD 2023-
0128-E retains most of the requirements of EASA AD 2022-0169-E, adds an 
inspection of affected parts that accumulated more than 500 FH since 
new, and amends the compliance time for the visual inspection of 
affected parts. Additionally, EASA advises that EASA AD 2023-0128-E is 
(still) considered an interim measure and that further AD action may 
follow. See EASA AD 2023-0128-E for additional background information.

Related Service Information Under 1 CFR Part 51

    EASA AD 2023-0128-E requires, before any cleaning of the TRB, using 
a lamp (1000 lux) to visually inspect the root area of each affected 
TRB for the presence of any linear indication; and cleaning certain 
areas of each TRB and repeating the visual inspection of the TRB for a 
linear indication. Depending on the inspection results, EASA AD 2023-
0128-E requires performing a dye penetrant inspection of the root area 
of a TRB, and if a linear indication is detected, replacing the 
affected TRB with a serviceable part. Finally, EASA AD 2023-0128-E 
prohibits installing an affected TRB on any helicopter after its 
effective date.
    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 reviewed Airbus Helicopters Emergency Alert Service 
Bulletin (EASB) No. SA341-65.71 for Model SA341G helicopters and non 
FAA-type certificated military Model SA341B, C, D, E, F, and H 
helicopters; and EASB No. SA342-65.71 for Model SA342J helicopters and 
non FAA-type certified military Model SA342K, L, L1, M, M1, and MA 
helicopters, each Revision 2 and dated June 19, 2023 (co-published as 
one document). This service information specifies procedures for 
visually checking the TRB for presence of a linear indication; cleaning 
the TRB with a lint free rag and solvent and repeating the visual 
check; performing a fluorescent penetrant inspection if a linear 
indication is detected; removing and replacing any affected TRB if 
necessary; and recording compliance with the service information.

FAA's Determination

    These helicopters been approved by EASA and are approved for 
operation in the United States. Pursuant to the FAA's bilateral 
agreement with the European Union, EASA, its technical representative, 
has notified the FAA of the unsafe condition described in its emergency 
AD. The FAA is issuing this AD after evaluating all pertinent 
information and determining that the unsafe condition exists and is 
likely to exist or develop on other helicopters of the same type 
design.

AD Requirements

    This AD requires accomplishing the actions specified in EASA AD 
2023-0128-E, described previously, which is incorporated by reference, 
except for any differences identified as exceptions in the regulatory 
text of this AD and except as discussed under ``Differences Between 
this AD and EASA AD 2023-0128-E.''

Explanation of Required Compliance Information

    In the FAA's ongoing efforts to improve the efficiency of the AD 
process, the FAA developed a process to use some civil aviation 
authority (CAA) ADs as the primary source of information for compliance 
with requirements for corresponding FAA ADs. The FAA has been 
coordinating this process with manufacturers and CAAs. As a result, 
EASA AD 2023-0128-E is incorporated by reference in this FAA final 
rule. This AD, therefore, requires compliance with EASA AD 2023-0128-E 
in its entirety through that incorporation, except for any differences 
identified as exceptions in the regulatory text of this AD. Using 
common terms that are the same as the heading of a particular section 
in EASA AD 2023-0128-E does not mean that operators need comply only 
with that section. For example, where the AD requirement refers to 
``all required actions and compliance times,'' compliance with this AD 
requirement is not limited to the section titled ``Required Action(s) 
and Compliance

[[Page 47353]]

Time(s)'' in EASA AD EASA AD 2023-0128-E. Service information 
referenced in EASA AD 2023-0128-E for compliance will be available at 
regulations.gov under Docket No. FAA-2023-1506.

Differences Between This AD and EASA AD 2023-0128-E

    Although EASA AD 2023-0128-E does not define the phrase ``a linear 
indication,'' service information referenced in EASA AD 2023-0128-E 
defines this phrase as an indication for which the longest dimension is 
at least three times longer than the smallest one. This AD defines a 
linear indication as any linear indication perpendicular to the grain 
direction of the blade that is detected regardless of size. Where EASA 
AD 2023-0128-E requires performing a dye penetrant inspection, this AD 
requires a fluorescent penetrant inspection performed by a Level II or 
Level III inspector certified in the FAA-acceptable standards for 
nondestructive inspection personnel.

Interim Action

    The FAA considers this AD to be interim action.

Justification for Immediate Adoption and Determination of the Effective 
Date

    Section 553(b)(3)(B) of the Administrative Procedure Act (APA) (5 
U.S.C. 551 et seq.) authorizes agencies to dispense with notice and 
comment procedures for rules when the agency, for ``good cause,'' finds 
that those procedures are ``impracticable, unnecessary, or contrary to 
the public interest.'' Under this section, an agency, upon finding good 
cause, may issue a final rule without providing notice and seeking 
comment prior to issuance. Further, section 553(d) of the APA 
authorizes agencies to make rules effective in less than thirty days, 
upon a finding of good cause.
    An unsafe condition exists that required the immediate adoption of 
Emergency AD 2023-13-51, issued on June 27, 2023, to all known U.S. 
owners and operators of these helicopters. The FAA found that the risk 
to the flying public justified waiving notice and comment prior to 
adoption of this rule because the affected part is critical to the 
control of a helicopter. In addition, failure of an affected part can 
cause the part to depart from the helicopter, thereby causing damage to 
the helicopter and subsequent loss of control of the helicopter. Also, 
the FAA has no information pertaining to how quickly the condition may 
propagate to failure. Investigation is still on-going to determine the 
root cause of the defect and the number of parts affected by the same 
condition. In light of this, the initial visual inspection must be 
accomplished within 10 hours time-in-service. These conditions still 
exist, therefore, notice and opportunity for prior public comment are 
impracticable and contrary to the public interest pursuant to 5 U.S.C. 
553(b)(3)(B).
    In addition, the FAA finds that good cause exists pursuant to 5 
U.S.C. 553(d) for making this amendment effective in less than 30 days, 
for the same reasons the FAA found good cause to forego notice and 
comment.

Regulatory Flexibility Act

    The requirements of the Regulatory Flexibility Act (RFA) do not 
apply when an agency finds good cause pursuant to 5 U.S.C. 553 to adopt 
a rule without prior notice and comment. Because the FAA has determined 
that it has good cause to adopt this rule without prior notice and 
comment, RFA analysis is not required.

Costs of Compliance

    The FAA estimates that this AD affects 22 helicopters of U.S. 
Registry. There may be up to 13 affected TRBs per helicopter. Labor 
rates are estimated at $85 per work-hour. Based on these numbers, the 
FAA estimates the following costs to comply with this AD.
    Visually inspecting one TRB for presence of a linear indication 
takes about 1 work-hour for an estimated cost of $85 per inspection. 
Visually inspecting each additional TRB takes about 0.1 work-hour for 
an estimated cost of $9 per inspection. The cost for inspecting each 
helicopter may be up to $193 and the cost for the U.S. fleet may be up 
to $4,246.
    If required, fluorescent penetrant inspecting a TRB for the 
presence of a linear indication takes about 2 work-hours for an 
estimated cost of $170 per inspection.
    If required, removing an affected TRB and replacing it with a 
serviceable TRB takes about 2 work-hours and parts cost about $3,630 
for an estimated cost of $3,800 per replacement. Removing each 
additional affected TRB and replacing it with a serviceable TRB takes 
about an additional 0.5 work-hour and parts cost about $3,630 for an 
estimated cost of $3,673 for each additional replacement.

Authority for This Rulemaking

    Title 49 of the United States Code specifies the FAA's authority to 
issue rules on aviation safety. Subtitle I, section 106, describes the 
authority of the FAA Administrator. Subtitle VII: Aviation Programs, 
describes in more detail the scope of the Agency's authority.
    The FAA is issuing this rulemaking under the authority described in 
Subtitle VII, Part A, Subpart III, Section 44701: General requirements. 
Under that section, Congress charges the FAA with promoting safe flight 
of civil aircraft in air commerce by prescribing regulations for 
practices, methods, and procedures the Administrator finds necessary 
for safety in air commerce. This regulation is within the scope of that 
authority because it addresses an unsafe condition that is likely to 
exist or develop on products identified in this rulemaking action.

Regulatory Findings

    This AD will not have federalism implications under Executive Order 
13132. This AD will not have a substantial direct effect on the States, 
on the relationship between the national Government and the States, or 
on the distribution of power and responsibilities among the various 
levels of government.
    For the reasons discussed, I certify that this AD:
    (1) Is not a ``significant regulatory action'' under Executive 
Order 12866, and
    (2) Will not affect intrastate aviation in Alaska.

List of Subjects in 14 CFR Part 39

    Air transportation, Aircraft, Aviation safety, Incorporation by 
reference, Safety.

The Amendment

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

PART 39--AIRWORTHINESS DIRECTIVES

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

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


Sec.  39.13  [Amended]

0
2. The FAA amends Sec.  39.13 by:
0
a. Removing Airworthiness Directive 2022-19-08, Amendment 39-22177 (87 
FR 56865, September 16, 2022); and
0
b. Adding the following new airworthiness directive:

2023-13-51 Airbus Helicopters: Amendment 39-22512; Docket No. FAA-
2023-1506; Project Identifier MCAI-2023-00784-R.

(a) Effective Date

    The FAA issued emergency Airworthiness Directive (AD) 2023-13-51 
on June 27, 2023 directly to affected owners and operators. As

[[Page 47354]]

a result of such actual notice, the emergency AD was effective for 
those owners and operators on the date it was provided. This AD 
contains the same requirements as that emergency AD and, for those 
who did not receive actual notice, is effective on August 8, 2023.

(b) Affected ADs

    This AD replaces AD 2022-19-08, Amendment 39-22177 (87 FR 56865, 
September 16, 2022) (AD 2022-19-08).

(c) Applicability

    This AD applies to all Airbus Helicopters Model SA341G and 
SA342J helicopters, certificated in any category.

(d) Subject

    Joint Aircraft System Component (JASC) Code: 6410, Tail Rotor 
Blades.

(e) Unsafe Condition

    This AD was prompted by a report of manufacturing defects on 
multiple tail rotor blades (TRBs) and a subsequent determination 
that TRBs that have accumulated 500 or more hours time-in-service 
(TIS), and which were not included in AD 2022-19-08, are also 
affected by the unsafe condition and must perform the required 
corrective actions. The FAA is issuing this AD to detect linear 
indications on a TRB. The unsafe condition, if not addressed, could 
result in an in-flight TRB loss, unbalance or damage to the tail or 
other parts of the helicopter, and subsequent loss of control of the 
helicopter.

(f) Compliance

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

(g) Requirements

    Except as specified in paragraphs (h) and (i) of this AD: Comply 
with all required actions and compliance times specified in, and in 
accordance with, European Union Aviation Safety Agency Emergency AD 
2023-0128-E, dated June 26, 2023 (EASA AD 2023-0128-E).

(h) Exceptions to EASA AD 2023-0128-E

    (1) Where EASA AD 2023-0128-E requires compliance in terms of 
flight hours, this AD requires using hours TIS.
    (2) Where EASA AD 2023-0128-E refers to its effective date, this 
AD requires using the effective date of this AD.
    (3) Where EASA AD 2023-0128-E refers to the effective date of 
EASA AD 2022-0169-E (dated August 12, 2022), this AD requires using 
October 3, 2022 (the effective date of AD 2022-19-08).
    (4) Where paragraph (2) of EASA AD 2023-0128-E states, ``linear 
indication,'' for the purposes of this AD, a linear indication is 
any linear indication perpendicular to the grain direction of the 
blade that is detected regardless of size.
    (5) Where paragraph (2) of EASA AD 2023-0128-E states to 
``accomplish a dye penetrant inspection of the root area of that 
discrepant part in accordance with the instructions of the ASB,'' 
for this AD replace that text with ``perform a fluorescent penetrant 
inspection (FPI) of the root area of each affected part that has any 
linear indication (perpendicular to the grain direction of the blade 
and regardless of size), in accordance with the Accomplishment 
Instructions, paragraph 3.B.3. of the ASB. This FPI must be 
accomplished by a Level II or Level III inspector certified in the 
FAA-acceptable standards for nondestructive inspection personnel.''

    Note 1 to paragraph (h)(5): Advisory Circular 65-31B contains 
examples of FAA-acceptable Level II and Level III qualification 
standards criteria for inspection personnel doing nondestructive 
test inspections.

    (6) Where paragraph (3) of EASA AD 2023-0128-E specifies to 
replace any affected part having a confirmed linear indication with 
a serviceable part; instead, for this AD, if as a result of the 
action required by paragraph (2) of EASA AD 2023-0128-E, there is 
any linear indication (perpendicular to the grain direction of the 
blade and regardless of size), before further flight, remove the 
affected TRB from service and replace it with a serviceable part as 
defined in EASA AD 2023-0128-E.
    (7) Where the service information referenced in EASA AD 2023-
0128-E specifies to discard the TRB if a linear indication is 
detected, this AD requires, before further flight, removing that 
part from service.
    (8) Where the service information referenced in EASA AD 2023-
0128-E specifies to use tooling, this AD allows the use of 
equivalent tooling.
    (9) This AD does not adopt the ``Remarks'' section of EASA AD 
2023-0128-E.

(i) No Reporting Requirement

    Although the service information referenced in EASA AD 2023-
0128-E specifies to submit certain information to the manufacturer, 
this AD does not include that requirement.

(j) Credit for Previous Actions

    This paragraph provides credit for actions required by paragraph 
(g) of this AD, if those actions were performed before the effective 
date of this AD using AD 2022-19-08.

(k) Special Flight Permits

    A special flight permit may be issued in accordance with 14 CFR 
21.197 and 21.199 to operate the helicopter to a location where the 
visual inspection or FPI can be performed, provided no passengers 
are onboard. Special flight permits are prohibited if a linear 
indication has been detected by an FPI or a visible crack has been 
detected on a TRB.

(l) 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 (m) 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.

(m) Related Information

    For more information about this AD, contact Dan McCully, 
Aviation Safety Engineer, FAA, 1600 Stewart Avenue, Suite 410, 
Westbury, NY 11590; telephone (404) 474-5548; email 
[email protected].

(n) Material Incorporated by Reference

    (1) The Director of the Federal Register approved the 
incorporation by reference of the service information listed in this 
paragraph under 5 U.S.C. 552(a) and 1 CFR part 51.
    (2) You must use this service information as applicable to do 
the actions required by this AD, unless this AD specifies otherwise.
    (i) European Union Aviation Safety Agency Emergency AD 2023-
0128-E, dated June 26, 2023 (EASA AD 2023-0128-E).
    (ii) [Reserved]
    (3) For EASA AD 2023-0128-E, contact EASA, Konrad-Adenauer-Ufer 
3, 50668 Cologne, Germany; telephone +49 221 8999 000; email 
[email protected]; internet easa.europa.eu. You may find the EASA 
material on the EASA website at ad.easa.europa.eu.
    (4) You may view this service information at the FAA, Office of 
the Regional Counsel, Southwest Region, 10101 Hillwood Pkwy., Room 
6N-321, Fort Worth, TX 76177. For information on the availability of 
this material at the FAA, call (817) 222-5110. This material may be 
found in the AD docket at regulations.gov under Docket No. FAA-2023-
1506.
    (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 July 18, 2023.
Victor Wicklund,
Deputy Director, Compliance & Airworthiness Division, Aircraft 
Certification Service.
[FR Doc. 2023-15714 Filed 7-20-23; 4:15 pm]
BILLING CODE 4910-13-P


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